wishing all the expat readers gong xi fa cai

Transcription

W ISHING
ALL
T HE E XPAT
READERS
G ONG X I F A C AI & H APPY Y EAR
OF THE
S NAKE !
A tender way to grow from
1 month to 14 years
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I
Reaching the International Community
since 1996
’ve never been that good at do-it-yourself jobs. The idea sounds appealing enough,
particularly the bit where you proudly show off the finished product, but the process
never seems to go as smoothly as the instructions would suggest.
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For that reason, I rarely buy unassembled furniture unless the shop can arrange for
someone to come and put it all together. In fact, I often get frustrated assembling the
kid’s toys as I struggle to understand instructions which make me doubt my powers of
English comprehension.
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Marybeth Ramey
Editor
Chad Merchant
Assistant Editor
Sarah Rees
Art Director
Chai Siew Kim
Senior Graphic Designer
Charles Lee
Staff Writer
Manveen Maan
IT Director
Rusli Arshad
IT
Mohamed Azman, Rozalin
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H I
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J. Andrew Davison
T H E R E !
www.theexpatgroup.com
General Manager - TEG Digital
Nick Davison
Online Content Editor
Jivani Jeyasingam
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Nick Atkinson
Business Development Director
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Olivia Yap, Emily Tang,
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My son is obsessed with Lego, so fortunately, when I used to help him, I found their
directions to be fairly clear. However, I have never quite been certain whether the many
pieces left over after we finished assembling everything were spare parts or proof that we
had missed some pieces. He now does it faster without my help.
Recently, my wife decided to buy a new bed for our youngest child and, without
telling me, went to IKEA and bought one that we would have to assemble ourselves.
Fortunately, by the time I got home that night, she had assembled it. However, I quickly
spotted something was wrong and tried to think of an inoffensive way to tell my wife
that the mattress should not be on the floor below the bed frame but resting on some
supports at the bottom of the frame.
I had, once again, underestimated my wife who said she was well aware that some parts
were missing but that there had been no other parts in the box. I was brave enough to
suggest that we check again in case they were hidden… but the box was indeed empty.
I then looked at the instructions which clearly showed the last step of the assembly was
lowering a base into the frame to support the mattress. A quick call to IKEA’s customer
service resulted in us being told that my wife must have missed the signs saying the box
was part one of a two-box set. Naturally, I suspected my wife has missed it, despite her
insistence there was no such sign. Wisely, it turned out, I kept quiet.
We were told to return to the store – I really hate shopping – and we could collect the
second piece. My wife immediately remembered something else she had to buy, so while
I made that purchase for her, she went to customer service to get the missing part of
the bed. Around half an hour later, as my frustration mounted, she returned, saying the
staff had informed her that the base of the bed frame actually came entirely separately,
notwithstanding the fact the piece was clearly shown on the instructions we had with the
first box. Then, not satisfied with delivering just that news, they further told us the piece
we required was out of stock, so please come back in a couple of weeks!
My bad humour got decidedly worse as I could think of no logical reason for making this
integral part of the bed a separate purchase. I could only hope the next time
one of IKEA’s bosses ordered a new car, it would be delivered without
wheels with the information that wheels were now a separate purchase
which they had not specifically requested.
Events Manager
Antoinette Perera
Digital Sales Manager
Michael Thorp
Distribution
Suriah Ali
My five-year-old daughter bravely slept in the bed, but somehow got
her foot stuck between the mattress and the base of the frame, so
decided a night with Mum and Dad was a much better idea, one which
would allow her to turn sideways and kick me in the head all night.
MM2H Manager
Farzana Ali
Finance / Admin – Senior Manager
Khoo Poh Lian
It’s times like this where my many years of learning to be patient and
manage stress really pays off.
printer
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Have a great month.
for more information:
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YSIA.COM
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FEBRUARY 2013 VOLUME 185
Contents
54
EVENTS & NEWS
9
11
13
20
22
24
FEATURES
Events
Clubs and Associations
Expat News
The Expat WINE DINNER
The Expat MINGLE
Expat Extracts
35
37
39
41
COLUMNS
15
17
19
Almost Home by Chad Merchant
Rees’s Pieces by Sarah Rees
My View by Marybeth Ramey
42
47
62
65
67
85
AN EXPAT TOUR OF ASEAN
An Afternoon with the Mexican
Ambassador
Lone Pine: Leisure Done Right
What Animal Are You?
Iskandar Malaysia: Lower Carbon
Emissions Thanks to LCS Blueprint
Expat Homes: Saying Goodbye
Books: A Vintage Classic
Artist Profile: Yong Siew Fong
The Spirit of Kiwanis
Body and Soul: Serenity in Solitude
Play with your Food!
FEBRUARY FOCUS: RESIDENT TOURISM
26
28
30
When Nature Calls
Welcome to My City
KL’s Sensational Shopping
TRAVEL & TOURISM
44
54
58
60
Where the Caged Bird Sings
Christmas Every Day
Expat Airlines and Travel News
Plane Pampering
49
50
52
ASEAN: A Brief History
ASEAN: Singapore – Dream Themes
ASEAN: Singapore – Now and Then
EDUCATION
69
72
School Snaps
Award for Bright and Deserving
Scholars
Plus Nearly 30 pages of EXPAT INFORMATION
77
79
89
90
94
Dining Promos
Restaurant Reviews and Dining Guide
This Month’s WINE OFFER
Shopping and Services
The Expat Directory
pat
The Ex thly
n
o
M
d
Car
Specials
page 12
30
50
81
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME
ExpatGoMalaysia.com|February 
TO GET YOUR FREE COPY OF THE EXPAT DELIVERED
EVERY MONTH, VISIT WWW.EXPATGOMALAYSIA.COM,
CALL 03.2094 9664, OR FILL IN THE FORM ON PAGE 86.
W ISHING
ALL
T HE E XPAT
READERS
G ONG X I F A C AI & H APPY Y EAR
OF THE
S NAKE !
YONG SIEW FONG
(see page 62)
6 THE EXPAT WWW.EXPATGOMALAYSIA.COM
The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of Borneo Vision Sdn Bhd. The publisher
shall not be held liable for any omission, error, or inaccuracy. No parts of this publication may be reproduced in
any form without the publisher’s permission.
F ebruary Even ts
1
February
Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan
will enjoy a public holiday as the first day
of February mark the anniversary of the
formation of the Federal Territory in 1974.
Each year, the celebrations for Federal
Territory Day carry a theme and a special
event is held in Merdeka Square in the
capital to mark this important moment. KL
was the only state to be part of the Federal
Territory upon formation in 1974, with
Labuan added in 1984 before Putrajaya
joined the ranks in 2001.
2
9
February
The mega concert Rockarisma will be
an unmissable night on the calendar of
any rock fan, as this one-night-only show
brings together three iconic performers
from three legendary rock bands of
the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Ramli Sarip of
Sweet Charity, Nash and Man Kidal of
Lefthanded, and Mus of May will share
the stage at Stadium Hang Jebat (Melaka)
from 8.45pm and rock up the historic state
like nothing else. Visit www.ticketpro.
com.my for tickets, which are priced from
RM78-188.
-3 February
French pianist Hélène Grimaud has
been tapping at the keys since the age of
seven and has blossomed into one of the
world’s leading concert pianists. She will
bringing her interpretive talents to the
stage at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas for
two shows in February, and performing
Brahms’ Second Piano Concerto, a piece
known for its melancholy and haunting
beauty. Tickets are priced from RM50-180
and shows are at 8.30pm on Saturday and
3pm on Sunday. Visit www.mpo.com.my
or call the box office on 03.2051 7007.
14
February
Valentine may have been an
early Christian martyr, but people of all
religions and cultures can’t resist the allure
of the day of lovers, and Malaysians are
no exceptions. Restaurants and hotels all
over the country will be laying on special
romantic dinners on Valentine’s Day, while
shops will be bursting with Valentine’s
goodies, from chocolates and sweets to
teddies and cards. Flowers will be in hot
demand by young men looking to woo
their lady, so get yours early!
10
-11 February
17
February
20
February
24
February
One of the most important festivals
for the Chinese community is Chinese New
Year, and as the year of the Snake arrives
on 10 February, the country will enjoy
two public holidays to allow everyone to
celebrate the coming of a new lunar year.
Look out for Lion Dances and fireworks
as the Chinese community don their new
clothes and give out ang pau (red packets
containing money) to their family and
friends. As with every festival, food is a
feature, and oranges will be given for luck,
while salads of yee sang will be tossed to
bring the mixers luck in the coming year.
The big band to hit Malaysia this
month is Paramore, who return to the
capital to perform for one night at Stadium
Negara and the evening promises to thrill
all fans of this Grammy-nominated, pop
rock phenomenon. Expect to hear songs
from the most recent album, Kampong
Glam, and keep an ear out for the brand
new single, Now. Tickets are priced at
RM110-270 and are available online at
www.ticketpro.com.my but please note,
only those aged 15 and above will be
granted admittance.
From 20 February until 4 March,
take a trip to the KL Craft Complex where
the usual superb selection of arts and
crafts will be supplemented by fashion
shows, cooking demonstrations, and
many other activities in conjunction with
National Craft Day 2013. The KL Craft
Complex is located on Jalan Conlay
and more details can be found on their
website, www.kraftangan.gov.my.
Lovers of movies and Shakespeare
should start saving Sunday afternoons
from 24 February, as a new series of
movie screenings start at Kuala Lumpur
Performing Arts Centre, and will continue
weekly until 14 April. These screenings
are orchestrated by Paul Loosley and offer
a chance to revisit Shakespeare’s classic
plays on the silver screen. From 3pm on 24
February, catch Julie Taymor’s Titus (1999)
that recreates the play Titus Andronicus
and stars Anthony Hopkins in the title role.
Movies to follow in the coming weeks
include Kenneth Brannagh’s Much Ado
About Nothing (1993) and Ralph Fiennes’
Coriolanus (2011). For more details, visit
www.klpac.org.
WWW.EXPATGOMALAYSIA.COM
THE EXPAT 9
Fabulous French Fare
Get a taste of gourmet gastronomy
with our new arrivals in store. Fill your kitchen
with the enticing aromas of lemon, lavender,
truffles and many more. Our newest delicacies,
freshly arrived from France, evoke the smells and
tastes of the world’s finest cuisine. Check out
the complete range in our store to find
a wide selection of fine food products.
Available exclusively at Jasons Food Hall.
Jasons Food Hall, Ground Floor, Bangsar Shopping Centre, 285 Jalan Maarof, 59100 Kuala Lumpur.
T +603-2094 2900 | F +603-2284 6716 | FB facebook.com/JasonsFoodHall | www jasonsfoodhall.com.my
Clubs and Association s
AAM
Chinatown Walking Tour
Date: 7 February Time: 9.30am-1.30pm
Venue: Chinatown (meet at Central
Market entrance) Cost: RM75 members,
RM90 non-members (including lunch)
RSVP: E-mail aam_kl05@streamyx.com
Angie Ng of Heritage Travel will be guiding
a group around Chinatown for an insight
into the history of the area. The tour
includes a visit to the oldest temple in
Kuala Lumpur and stops at the traditional
stores and wet markets of Chinatown. The
morning ends with lunch (non-halal) at an
old-fashioned Chinese restaurant where
food is still cooked over charcoal in castiron woks.
Beginners’ Mandarin Course
Date: 15 February-8 March
Time: 10.30am-12pm
Venue: AAM Villa, Villa Seavoy, 7 Lorong
Titiwangsa 8, Taman Titiwangsa
Cost: RM320 members, RM380 nonmembers RSVP: E-mail aam_kl05@
streamyx.com by 8 February
Join James Phua for this four-session
introduction to spoken and written
Mandarin. The fun and easy class will
include a “short cut” way to speaking
Mandarin, interactive conversations, and
introduction to Chinese calligraphy and
characters. A notebook and exercise book
will be provided.
Coffee Morning: All-Things-KL Fair
Date: 21 February Time: 10am Venue:
AAM Villa, Villa Seavoy, 7 Lorong
Titiwangsa 8, Taman Titiwangsa RSVP:
E-mail aam_kl05@streamyx.com
This special coffee morning is a great way
to get lots of information about the city
as there will be vendors ready to answer
questions and offer pamphlets, even
samples, and vouchers for everything
from grocery delivery, schools, medical
facilities, social organizations, volunteer
opportunities, spas, home décor, salons,
real estate, travel agents, and much,
much more.
AAM 30th Annual Ball – Starry Night:
A Salute to the Oscars
Date: 23 February
Time: 7pm-1am
Venue: Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur
Cost: RM350 members, RM400 nonmembers RSVP: E-mail aam_kl05@
streamyx.com
This yearly event is one of the highlights of
the AAM year and will carry a glitzy Oscar
theme to make sure that the 30th event is
one to remember! Dress code is black tie,
and there will be a silent auction as well as
dinner, dancing, and an open bar.
Lunch Bunch
Date: 28 February Time: 12pm
Venue: Romanza, Le Restaurant, 214b
Lorong Nibong (off Jalan Ampang, behind
Hock Choon) Cost: Price of your own
food and drinks RSVP: E-mail aam_kl05@
streamyx.com by 26 February
Those of you joining for lunch this month
will be surprised at the creativity of the
French/Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with
a hint of South African flavors, prepared by
Chef Steven Kruger and his team. This is
a great chance to have a lovely lunch and
get to know some new friends.
ABWM
The Association of British Women
in Malaysia (ABWM) is a non-profit
making organisation running activities and
events for members (who do not have to
be British!). Weekly coffee mornings are
held on Tuesdays at our House (the first
Tuesday of the month is geared towards
newcomers), which is located at 88 Jalan
Terasek 8, Bangsar (drop by between
10am-2pm). Call on 03.2284 4407 or
visit www.abwm.com.my to learn about
upcoming events.
MANZA
Dinner Club
Date: 9 February
Cost: RM10 donation plus price of own
food and drinks
RSVP: Contact Debbie on debfridge@
hotmail.com
Manza Dinner Club is held on the 2nd
Saturday night of each month, with an aim
to try out a different restaurant in the KL
area each time. It is also an opportunity
for members (and their partners) to meet
new people in a relaxing environment. A
charitable donation of RM10 per person is
requested each month, and the collection
will be donated to a Manza charity.
SOUTH AFRICANS IN MALAYSIA
Coffee Morning
Date: 14 February RSVP: Call Dorne
Sherwood on 012.916 8506 or email
dorne_roos@hotmail.com.
Every second Thursday of the month, join
the South Africans for a cup of coffee and
a chat about life in Malaysia.
KLOGS (KUALA LUMPUR’S OTHER
GOLFING SOCIETY)
The KLOGS gentlemen golf group meets
on the third Wednesday of each month
and play on prestigious golf courses in and
around KL. For more details contact “El
Pres” on mike.maxcon.smith@gmail.com
KL COBRAS ICE HOCKEY CLUB
Date: Every Monday
Time: 9.30pm Venue: Sunway Pyramid
This ice hockey club has over 50 members
and participates in a league, plays in
tournaments around the region, as well
as hosting regular charity and social
events. For more details contact info@
klcobras.com.
Address Book
American Association of Malaysia
Unit G-3A Villa Seavoy 7, Lorong Titiwangsa 8,
Taman Titiwangsa, 53200 KL.
Tel: 03.4021 4367 / 4368
Web: www.klamerican.com
Email: aam_kl05@streamyx.com
Association Francophone de Malaisie (AFM)
34, Jalan Dutamas Raya, 51200 Kuala Lumpur
Email: afm.kuala@gmail.com
Web: www.afmkuala.com
Association of British Women In Malaysia
(ABWM) 88, Jalan Terasek 8 Bangsar Baru 59100,
KL. Tel: 03.2284 4407
Web: www.abwm.com.my
Canadian Association of Malaysia
CAM Mailing Address c/o Canadian High
Commission, 17th Floor, Menara Tan & Tan,
207 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur.
Web: www.canadians-in-kl.com
German Speaking Society Of Kuala Lumpur
(GSSKL) P.O. Box 707, Jalan Sultan, 46670
Petaling Jaya. E-mail: info@gsskl.com.my
Website: www.gsskl.com.my
Hellenic Society of Malaysia
Villa Putra Putri, 3 Gerbang Ampang Hilir,
55000 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: Miltos 012 772 0150
Email: miltosgreco@hotmail.com
Web: www.facebook.com/GreeksInMalaysia,
http://grecomalaysian.blogspot.com
International Women’s Association –
Kuala Lumpur (IWAKL)
P.O. Box 269 Jalan Sultan 46670 Petaling Jaya .
Web: www.iwakl.org E-mail: iwakl@iwakl.org
Ibu Family Resource Group
1st Floor, Wisma Lejadi, 48 Jalan 27/70A,
Desa Sri Hartamas, KL.
Tel: 03.6211 9183 Web: www.ibufamily.org
E-mail: ibu@ibufamily.org
Japanese Club
2, Jalan 1/86, off Jalan Taman Seputeh,
Taman Seputeh, 58200 KL.
Tel: 03.2274 2274
Fax: 03.2274 3584 Web: www.jckl.org.my
KL Cobras Ice Hockey Club
Email: info@klcobras.com
Web: www.klcobras.com
Malaysian Australian New Zealand
Association (MANZA)
38, Jalan Tempinis, Bangsar, KL.
Tel: 03.2284 7145 Fax: 03.2287 7151
Email: manzaoffice@gmail.com
Web: www.manza.org
South Africans in Malaysia
Email: dorne_roos@hotmail.com
Tel: Dorne Sherwood, 012.9168506
Latin American Ladies Association
Web: www.damaslatinas.com.my
Email: dlm@damaslatinas.com.my /
grupodamaslatinas@gmail.com
The Royal Society of St George
E-mail: Michael McIver (Hon Sec)
webmaster@stgeorgesmalaysia.com
Web: www.stgeorgesmalaysia.com
Scandinavian Society Malaysia (SSM)
Scandinavian Society Malaysia
Suite 303, F139, BSC, 285 Jalan Maarof,
Bangsar 59000 Kuala Lumpur
Email: info@scandinaviansocietymalaysia.com
Web: www.scandinaviansocietymalaysia.com
Swedish Women’s Educational Association
Web: www.swea.org/kualalumpur/
E-mail: kualalumpur@swea.org
St. Andrew’s Society PO Box 6210, Pudu Post
Office, 55720 KL. Web: www.ssas-online.com
Turkish Malaysian Friendship Association
Contact: Ms. Nilufer Senyuva 019.396 4086
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ExpatNews
SHOPPING GOALS SURPASSED
Kuala Lumpur once aspired to equal
Singapore as a shopping destination. At
the time, Singapore was considered the
place for shopping, attracting shoppers
from all over Asia and even others parts of
the world with its amazing array of shops
and consumer products.
Kuala Lumpur had virtually no shopping
malls and the range of products on offer
was limited to say the least. It did have
numerous night markets which had
plenty of cheap goods for sale, often of
corresponding quality.
In the intervening years, there has been
a major transformation. Shopping malls
have sprung up all over the city and some
of them are huge – three of the world’s
ten largest malls are in Greater KL!
The change has recently been recognised
by two global surveys. Global Blue, a
Switzerland-based company, ranked 25
cities in Asia Pacific to determine the best
place to shop. They used multiple criteria
to rank them, and KL came out in second
place, just behind Hong Kong. Another
survey, conducted by CNN using different
criteria, ranked shopping destinations
worldwide and KL beat Hong Kong,
coming in at fourth place after New York,
London, and Tokyo. See our story on page
30 for more about KL’s terrific shopping.
GREATER KL IS GROWING
The Greater KL area – essentially the
Klang Valley – now has a population
of 7.5 million people and is one of the
fastest-growing metropolitan areas in
the region. While this causes some alarm
to residents who worry how the city will
handle the growing amount of traffic, it
is part of the government’s master plan
to make it one of the world top 20 cities.
In fact, by 2020 the expectation is that
Greater KL will have a population of some
10 million people.
On the positive side, KL is being
recognised as a city which has the ability
to attract capital, businesses, foreign
talent, and visitors. A recent report
assessed 120 cities around the world
and KL landed in 45th place (and 11th
in Asia Pacific). This ranking can surely
be expected to improve as the various
economic policies kick in.
MALAYSIA DOMINATES THE
SUKUK MARKET
Sukuk is the term given to financial
certificates which are the Islamic
equivalent of bonds. They are structured
to comply with Islamic law and its
investment principles. Bonds pay a fixedincome interest, which is not permissible
under Islamic law.
Malaysia is the world’s top Sukuk issuer
with nearly 70% of the world’s Sukuk
issued in this country. The total value of
Sukuk issued in 2012 totalled around
US$131 billion.
ASIA COULD GET MORE
FOREIGN INVESTMENT
A survey by the Economist Corporate
network reveals that multinationals which
are headquartered outside Asia are seeing
Asian revenues increase as a share of their
global revenues. The respondents, senior
executives from 170 companies, reported
that their Asian operations contributed
on average 19% of their global revenues
in 2011, and this rose to 22% in 2012.
They project that by 2017, the portion of
global revenues coming from Asia will be
around one-third.
The survey was conducted among
some 200 executives of multinational
companies and around three quarters
of them were headquartered in Europe
and North America. The respondents also
stated that, in their view, their companies
were under investing in this part of the
world and could be doing better if they
were more willing to capitalise on the
potential of this region.
The survey ranked Malaysia in fourth
place as a market in which to invest in
the coming years, behind China, India,
and Indonesia.
HSBC’S GLOBAL SURVEY OF EXPATS
RANKS MALAYSIA 8TH
Now in its fifth year, HSBC’s Expat
Explorer Survey researches expats’ views
on the countries in which they live in
terms of financial opportunity and the
lifestyle it offers. Singapore was ranked
first, followed by Thailand and the
Cayman Islands.
Malaysia came in at 8th place. When
comparing Malaysia with Singapore, we
fall somewhat behind in terms of the
financials (particularly income levels), but
in terms of lifestyle, the two countries are
neck and neck. We did better in terms
of quality of accommodation, cars, and
making local friends. The latter finding
is not surprising as Malaysians have
always been considered more open and
friendly to foreigners than their southern
neighbours.
One result which lowered Malaysia’s
rating was whether expats could speak
the local language. Expats in Singapore
said they could, whereas only a few
expats living here responded affirmatively.
This result is a bit misleading because,
in fact, expats in both countries can
converse with most locals in English.
Clearly, expats in Malaysia understand
that Malay is the official language here,
whereas expats in Singapore regard
the local language as English. (It is,
in fact, one of four official languages
in Singapore.)
AIRLINE ACCIDENTS CONTINUE
TO DECLINE
If you frequently have to fly, you will
be pleased to know that it has never
been safer. Flying is getting safer all the
time with 2012 being one of the best
on record. In the last ten years airline,
fatalities have dropped to around two
deaths per 100 million passenger miles.
This compares with 133 per hundred
million miles in the 1960s.
THE EXPAT 13
almost home ...
Teacher, chef, photographer… the quintessential “jack of all trades, master of none,” The Expat Group’s
editor Chad Merchant celebrated his midlife crisis by moving to Malaysia to experience living in a
different country. Over four years later, he’s still learning new things and feels, increasingly, almost
home. Feedback is welcomed and may be sent to chad@theexpatgroup.com.
Winds of Change
Sweeping Malaysia
Back in the mid-90s, something happened
that changed my life. You often hear
marketers come up with trite phrases like,
“This changes everything.” This time,
however, it was true. Early that year, I
bought a little 33.6Kbps modem, attached
it to my computer and my phone line, and
connected to the Internet.
Back then, the Internet was a rather
different thing than it is today. There was
certainly no such thing as “broadband”
– dial-up speed topped out at a paltry
52Kbps – and in those early days, you had
to pay by the hour to access the Internet.
Society was taking its first tentative steps
into the realm of the world wide web.
Today of course, it’s hard to think of too
many segments of human life which
haven’t been impacted by the Internet.
Shopping, communication, sharing
photos, doing research, investing, travel,
conducting business, and all the small
things from getting the updated weather
forecast to checking the scores from
yesterday’s games. And yes, even being an
expat these days is dramatically different
thanks to the proliferation of the Internet.
Interestingly, the rise of the Internet has
coincided quite neatly with Malaysia’s
own ascent as it seeks to become a fully
developed, high-income nation. Indeed,
much has changed in this country over the
past two decades.
Sometimes I wonder what it must have
been like to be an expat in Malaysia before
the big push to modernise things really
began in earnest. I’ve talked to longtenured expats and locals, but never can
get the real meat of what I’m looking for.
I guess it’s like trying to really remember
what life was like before the Internet. You
know it existed, but it’s hard to quite recall
the actual process of change. It happens
slowly and over many years, so it’s hard to
remember what it was like to start with.
If nothing else, it must be acknowledged
that the Internet has made many of our
day-to-day tasks a lot less burdensome.
Similarly, life in Malaysia has
unquestionably gotten easier for foreigners
living here. Not so long ago, being based
in Malaysia was considered a hardship
posting, and expats were compensated
accordingly. But think of what astounding
leaps Malaysia has made in the last two to
three decades. The North-South Highway.
The Penang Bridge. The Second Penang
Bridge. KLIA. KLIA2. (Malaysia loves a
sequel.) The Petronas Towers and KLCC.
All the popular malls here, from Pavilion
to 1 Utama to Sunway Pyramid (and so
many more). The entire mass transit system
from the old Star and Putra lines begun in
the mid-90s to the massive MRT project
under construction now. The SMART
Tunnel. ASTRO satellite TV and its recent
evolution to include high-definition and
IPTV platforms. And I don’t know for sure,
but I’d guess that probably most of the
buildings over 30 floors in the city have
been built in the last twenty-odd years.
If the 19th century was the United
Kingdom’s era, and 20th century was
America’s, it seems all but certain that
Asia will assume a strong leadership role
in the 21st century. Naturally, much of
the talk is focused on China, but it will
surely be Southeast Asia’s time to shine,
as well. I feel fortunate to be living in such
a dynamic place where, admittedly, not
all things are rosy, but where the general
outlook for the future is quite positive. For
me, nearly everything about Malaysia’s
near-term future seems to be looking
up. The coming elections are – as these
things tend to do – casting a shadow of
uncertainty over the coming months, but
I think that regardless of how Malaysians
choose when they go to the polls, the
country will continue its ascent.
Of course, Malaysia surely has its problems,
some rather universal, others unique to
this country. But I look at things like the
government’s new initiative to train and
educate taxi drivers, branding them as
ambassadors for the nation and holding
them accountable. (And let’s face it, any
effort to improve the taxi situation in KL
is most welcome.) I see the construction
underway for the long-overdue new MRT
line that will bring mass transit to some
two million people. I read about the IPOs of
Malaysian companies making a worldwide
financial splash. I see Malaysia ranked in the
top ten most-visited countries in the world,
and KL named the second-best shopping
city in Asia. (In a separate ranking, CNN
placed KL as the fourth-best shopping city
worldwide.) I check a recent US-based
report naming the top Asian property
investment prospects for 2013, and see that
four of the top five markets are in Southeast
Asia (KL ranks number four). I also find that
one of my earliest complaints about living in
Malaysia – the woeful state of broadband
– has been eliminated. Now, I have a thin
strand of fibre bringing blazing-fast Internet
into my home, along with many dozens of
standard- and high-definition TV channels.
I see the positive transformative steps the
government and people of this country are
taking to make it better, to make it stronger.
Truly, it’s a great time to live here and it
looks like Malaysia is really on an upward
swing. As an expat, I’m happy to be along
for the ride, contributing where I can, and
enjoying what will surely be looked upon
as Malaysia’s boom time.
THE EXPAT 15
rees’s pieces ...
Sarah Rees is something of a boomerang, having found her way back
to KL after an absence of 11 years and discovering that both she and
the city have grown up… although not too much. You can drop her a line at
sarah@theexpatgroup.com.
Foreign Familiarity
CHINESE OR NOT, YOU CAN’T HELP BUT BE SWEPT UP IN THE FUN AND NOISE OF
CHINESE NEW YEAR. SARAH REES TELLS YOU WHY THE UNFAMILIARITY OF THE
SEASON CONCEALS A BIG HUG THAT WILL MAKE ANY EXPAT FEEL AT HOME.
When living in the UK, January and
February means gloom. There is always
a post-Christmas comedown after the
feasting and frivolities are done, and the
weather usually matches the mood by
delivering endless rain, cold, sleet, wind,
darkness; you name it… yuk.
Malaysia, however, has stepped in to save
me. Here in the sunny area of the world,
February usually means Chinese New Year,
scorching heat, and lots of days off work,
and its fast becoming my favourite time
of year.
While the prospect of two days off and a
week (or so) of contacts being unavailable
makes work more stressful than usual
during the preceding weeks, when the
time arrives for the new year to explode
in firecrackers, I always get swept into the
happiness and celebration of the season
(especially as I don’t have to sit in any of
the epic jams on the highway to enjoy it).
There is something addictively jolly about
the colour red, the cheery zodiac animals,
the prospect of food, food, and more food
that you can toss high (we never get to
play with our Christmas pudding) before
eating merrily, preferably with lots of drink
amid chants of yuuuuuum seng!
But aside from all the frolicsome trappings,
the aspect of CNY that I love the most
is the way in which it is shared. Despite
being a largely family-orientated event,
expats orphans are often welcomed
and encouraged to be a part of this key
celebration in a way that, in my first few
years of experiencing it, seemed just as
foreign to me as the food.
When my pal first said, “You must come
for Chinese New Year,” I assumed they
were just being polite; special festive days
are important, and I have been brought up
to respect the sanctity of family occasions
such as these.
But my friend insisted, and it was with
no small amount of guilt that I found
myself the only non-family member at
this big, private celebration. I likened it
to my own Christmas, imaging a foreign
acquaintance that my family has never
met seated elbow-to-elbow with my
elderly Grandma as we tucked into the
turkey, and felt like I was intruding on
something sacred. I was, in true British
style, terrified that I was a burden on
those trying to enjoy themselves, and
apologized at every opportunity.
I needn’t have worried. Not only was I
not a burden, the family seemed utterly
delighted that I was there, going out of
their way to include me, to explain the
intricacies of the traditions, and drag
me into a prominent position in every
group photo.
When I finally got home, very full and
rather tired, I mused on how wonderful
events like these are in the life of an expat.
You can read about CNY (or Deepavali,
or Raya) on the internet from the chilly
UK, but nothing can compare to tossing
yee sang with a family of Chinese people
all dressed in their new year’s best, with
the Granny of the family pulling you
aside to tell you about the traditions she
remembers from her own childhood.
More valuable than the educational
nuggets gleaned at these moments,
however, is the pleasing sensation of
being included, being welcomed rather
than entertained or tolerated. In an expat
existence that consists mainly of being
a fish out of water, this open-armed
welcome is like a toasted sandwich after
a year of overly oily nasi lemaks and, for
those of us who are here without family
of our own, serves as a much-needed
metaphorical hug.
So don’t shy away from those invites this
month, don’t opt to stay at home rather
than be stuck with a group of people you
don’t know too well, feeling you will be
out of place. They invite you because they
want to share in a way that will humble
and delight you, and you will always enjoy
it more than you expect! Allow the food,
the fun, and the novelty of the occasion
warm you to the cockles and do your bit to
cast away those still-raw memories of wet,
cold, dreary months of post-Christmas
disappointment (if you come from the
northern hemisphere), if only to remind
yourself that Malaysians may drive like
narcissists, but they celebrate
with generosity.
THE EXPAT 17
my view ...
Marybeth Ramey, a multiple award-winning writer, has served on US and local university faculties
teaching Political Science, History, and the Humanities. With over 12 years with The Expat Group,
she now serves as its Consultant Director. She welcomes any feedback, even if it’s contentious!
The Older, The Wiser
Recently, my highly skilled physical
therapist discussed the probable reason
that at least seven orthopaedic surgeons
and six physical therapists in the six years
since my major spine surgery more or
less gave up on me, thus delaying my
recovery. They had strongly advised me
to stop wasting my time (and theirs, of
course) attempting the impossible, which
was to walk normally again, and to start
accepting the idea I simply had to go into
a wheelchair. Some would, upon seeing
my reaction, say of course, a motorized
wheelchair for you!
When he told me why they were so loathe
to invest any of their time with me, I knew
instantly he was correct.
The reason? My age. Evidently, I am
considered by many Malaysians, even
orthopaedic professionals to be not
just elderly (as I have seen noted in my
medical records), but ancient. Let me
qualify my real age by stating that I am
considered by any Western standard to be
middle-aged. Frankly, I find even that term
to be somewhat jarring given that I feel
much more like I am in my 30s. I admit,
however, to being taken aback every time
I see myself in the mirror, thinking for a
millisecond, “How did my mother ever
get herself over to Malaysia from Florida
to stand in back of me?”
My new physio is almost 40, so according
to local logic, is himself entering respiratorand-life-support territory. He has a medical
background that is unusually diverse given
he was on staff at a government teaching
hospital for many years and thus had the
opportunity to work with a wide range
of all types of cases and patients. He told
me that I am by far his oldest orthopaedic
patient. I asked him how that could be. He
specializes in muscular skeletal and sports
injury patients.
valuable human beings worthy of the
longest life possible.
He told me that in his experience, he could
say with certainty that no local person over
the age of 40 would have ever had the 10hour spine surgery I did. Never mind at age
51, which I was. Instead they would say, “I
will just live with the pain,” “too old, lah,”
or say they will retire and use a wheelchair
when it got to be too much.
I have often written that my employer
Andy Davison’s best quality is that he is
ten years older than me. Not only is Andy
a strong role model for me to emulate
since he is very health-conscious, works
out regularly at lunch time for about an
hour, and stays totally engaged in his
life, he reduces my stress enormously
because I know that I will never suffer
age discrimination at my workplace. Andy
would be thrilled if I wanted to work until I
was 98, believe me.
I am mystified that I did not figure this
out myself, especially given that for the
14 years I have lived here, I have keenly
noted the difference in culture regarding
the issue of age. Locals being so surprised
when they find out I have a real job and
actually want to work; the way many
older people are mostly invisible; and even
taxi drivers explaining to me bluntly that
although they are “old now, but just too
poor not to work,” followed by telling me
they are in their 50s!
One of the surgical doctors I saw was
only three years younger than me, yet he
continually referred to me as one of “his
elderly patients,” and his staff also told
me he was especially sympathetic to his
elderly patients, meaning, I guess, me. I’ve
been to doctors who will ask me just one
question after reviewing all my test results
and that is, “Mrs Ramey, what drugs can I
prescribe for you?”
I now have a Doctor of Physical Therapy
who practised in the UK for a couple of
decades before returning here to open
her own clinic. She agreed with my physio
and told me she has felt culture shocked
about the age issue since she returned.
In England, people in their 80s and 90s
still undergo surgeries, like to take walks,
garden and are still considering productive,
Yes, I do feel I have essentially wasted
almost six years of my life being so
embarrassed at how my body looked, and
so very uncomfortable all the time but I
want to move forward now. I write about
this issue to inform other expats who might
be in a similar position or be puzzled by a
medical worker’s attitudes towards them in
the field of rehabilitation for orthopaedics.
There are indeed wonderful and caring
doctors here but you must look hard for
them. Dr. Jason Cheong, whose story is on
page 65, is a dentist who also caters to the
physically and mentally challenged. He told
me that Malaysia does have the resources,
the rehab professionals, the necessary
passion of doctors and physiotherapists,
but sadly, the patients themselves must
search them out as there as no centralized
resources or directories to assist.
Even though I was perceived to be so old
that I was barely a member of our species
anymore, and thus evidently not worthy
of viable treatment protocols, by the end
of February, I will be able to walk normally,
upright to my full height, with my hips
finally rotated to be even, all by myself.
THE EXPAT 19
Comfort Food at Its Best
Ten years of experience delivering up soul food to happy families has given Riblees with the
ability to serve the edible equivalent of a massage, and Expat Wine Dinner guests were able
to enjoy the comforts of a meal at this family-run joint last month. Guests gathered at 7pm
to chat as canapés circulated and the tantaslising smell of the main meal wafted from the
kitchens, before taking their places and unfolding napkins.
The meal started with a Green Pea Smoked Bone soup that provided plenty of
comforting flavour, the charming dishful enhanced by a glass of sweet and light Duncan
Creek Moscato. Next up was a lovely Watercress Mango Salad with Mackerel Flakes
that proved this eatery does so much more than ribs, and yet when the ribs did arrive,
they were a sight to behold! The Bourbon Glazed Pork Ribs – something of a house
specialty at Riblees – arrived after the Spicy Capellini Bacon Pasta,
the former being paired with a crisp Eagle Ridge Red Zinfandel while
the latter was complemented by the Eagle Ridge Petite Sirah.
And what could be more satisfying that a sticky chocolate
dessert to conclude the evening? The Chocolate Mud Pie that
rounded off the meal was the ultimate gratifying treat and ensured
that no one stood up from the table without a bulging belly.
The Expat Would Like To Thank:
Riblees Ribs & More
41-1 (1st flr) Wisma CKL, Jalan 23/70A,
Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03.6201 0180
View more pictures of the The Expat Wine Dinner at
www.facebook.com/theexpatmalaysia
Next Time:
Date
: Tuesday, 19 February 2013
Time
: 7.00pm to 10.30pm
The Event : Sit-down dinner
Address : The Emperor Restaurant
Dorsett Grand Subang,
Jalan SS12/1, Subang Jaya 47500 Kuala Lumpur
Price
: RM130 (Expat Card, MM2H
and Wine Club Members)
RM150 (Non-Members)
Beginning the
New Year Deliciously
Chinese New Year is here again, so make
sure you enjoy some of the festive feasting
by joining us for a special Wine Dinner that
will be held within the spacious, opulent
interior of The Emperor Restaurant in the
Dorsett Grand Hotel.
This restaurant is always a popular
venue for families, friends, and even
companies looking to celebrate Chinese
New Year with a delicious meal thanks to
the authentic Cantonese cuisine that is
delivered from the kitchens. Come along
hungry, as a multi-course meal awaits you,
with many of the seasonal specialties on
offer to provide a food education while
filling the belly marvellously. Wines will be
carefully selected to match each dish and
course, guiding diners through a superb
evening that will start this Year of the
Snake pleasurably!
For reservations, contact Anis on
03.2093 9539.
THE EXPAT 21
Luck of the Irish
The jolly, charming spirit of the Irish enhanced our recent Mingle, taking place as it
did in the cosy environs of Clover Pub, where warming food, winning drinks, and a
relaxed atmosphere all make it a welcome place to come any time of the day.
First-time Minglers who joined us for the evening swiftly found themselves some
new friends, and everyone was thrilled to quench their thirst with ice-cold bottles
of Heineken (courtesy of Guinness Anchor Berhad) in hand to get the night off to a
great start. There were also glasses of French wines, courtesy of Cronier Wines, to
enjoy before the food began to appear and the chat swelled.
The lucky draw was just as rewarding as always, and those fortunate to be in
possession of winning tickets picked up prizes including a one-night stay at Zenith
Hotel (Kuantan), two return flights to Penang (courtesy of Firefly), a spa voucher, one
of two bottles of wines, RM100 F&B vouchers, and tickets to Berjaya Times Square
Theme Park.
W I N E S
SINCE 1698
The Expat Would Like To Thank:
The Clover Pub
Ground Floor, 1 Solaris Mont Kiara,
Jalan Solaris, off Jalan Duta Kiara,
Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03.6211 0781
22 THE EXPAT WWW.EXPATKL.COM
View more pictures of the The Expat Mingle at our Facebook page:
The Expat Group (TEG Malaysia)
@
®
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TP_ HUK TPUNSL ^P[O UL^ MYPLUKZ
+H[L! 26 February 2013 (Tuesday)
;PTL! 7pm – 9pm
=LU\L!
;^LU[`6UL ;HISLZ ;LYYHJL ' ):*
T1, 3rd Floor, Bangsar Shopping Centre
285, Jalan Marrof, Bukit Bandaraya
59000 Kuala Lumpur
Regular Entry
Free Flow Beer + Fingerfood
The Expat Card Holders: RM40
Non Card Holders: RM55
Add on Wine Option
Free Flow Beer +
3 Glasses of Wine + Fingerfood
The Expat Card Holders: RM50
Non Cardholders: RM65
Register online at
^^^TPUNSLL_WH[NVTHSH`ZPHJVT
or call Limited space only.
Please book early/register online
to avoid major disappointment!
Another event by
Jointly brought to you by
WWW.EXPATKL.COM
THE EXPAT 23
Expat Extracts
WANT TO SEE WHO YOU’RE SHARING THIS FOREIGN LAND WITH? GET ACQUAINTED
WITH THIS QUARTET OF EXPATS! IF YOU’D LIKE TO SEE YOURSELF ON THESE PAGES IN
A FUTURE ISSUE, DROP US A LINE AT INFO@THEEXPATGROUP.COM AND REQUEST
A QUESTIONNAIRE. SPOUSES AND FAMILIES ARE WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE, TOO!
Name: Ardy Timmer
Home Country: The Netherlands
Industry/Job: Arts
Marital Status: Married with two sons
Other countries you have lived: Indonesia
What brought you to Malaysia?
We came here for my husband’s job, and
have been here since October 2002.
What were your impressions of
Malaysia before you came?
I didn’t really know much about Malaysia
and thought it would be similar to
Indonesia, but it definitely isn’t! Malaysia
has three main ethnic groups, and that
[divide] makes living in Malaysia very
different to living in Indonesia.
How has Malaysia changed during
your stay here?
When I arrived ten years ago, it was
still possible to enjoy a nice walk in the
U-Thant area [of KL] because it was full of
old trees and really quiet. Unfortunately
that is gone now, and I regret that.
What are the three things
you like most about living
in Malaysia?
I like the daily sunshine and the warm
weather. I also like the relaxed living
style of Malaysians/Asians. Also, it’s still
cheap here compared to Europe. I like the
availability of healthy and organic foods
and many Western foods.
Do you own property here?
No. We own property in the UAE and in
the Netherlands. In Malaysia, we feel the
market is pretty saturated, so we are not
interested in investing.
How long do you think you will stay?
Having now been here ten years, there is
a possibility we may move soon, or we will
commit to staying another two to three
years until our youngest son has finished
school.
Name three typical weekend activities
that you enjoy.
Going for a hike and dipping into a river
or pond; going out with friends for dinner
or drinks; going for a movie with my son;
or, if possible, getting out of the city for a
weekend at the beach!
What do you miss most about your
home country?
I miss my family, fresh air, and the seasons.
I also miss Dutch apple cake with whipped
cream!
Name: Lone Friis Larsen
Home Country: Denmark
Industry/Job: Manager, Georg Jensen
Other countries you have lived: Denmark, Easter Island (Chile)
My parents, back in 1999 when my father
was assigned a so-called two-year project. It
took them 12 years to pack their bags and
they now live in Indonesia. I’ve attempted
to move back to Denmark more than once
and even spent a year on Easter Island, but
I keep finding myself back in Malaysia. It
appears gravity is a little stronger over here.
What were your impressions of
Malaysia before you came?
Back then there were a lot of
misconceptions about Borneo and Sarawak,
where I spent the first seven years. I
remember my maths teacher in Denmark
warning me about cannibals! I don’t
know what I expected but I was pleasantly
surprised. Malaysia is a warm, hospitable
country with lots of places to explore.
How easy was it to integrate into
Malaysia?
Thanks to being so multicultural, Malaysia is
an easy place to fit in. I remember returning
from a holiday six months after we moved
to Kuching and being told “welcome
home” by my local friends. I think that can
be defined as a gravitational pull. I am still
learning about the culture here, and some
old habits die hard; it’s hard to remember
not to point using fingers... or feet!
Are most of your friends locals or
expats?
After being here so many years, my friends
are largely local. Befriending expats became
exhausting after a while, as I felt like I was
always
saying
farewell to
someone. It is, of course, nice
to have some friends of the same culture
as you, but I enjoy the local mentality
and always have a great time with my
local friends. I’m really quite blessed with
amazing friends over here.
What do you miss about your home
country?
I miss my brother and his family, and also a
few Danish friends who have stood by me
my entire life, but they have all been great
at visiting. I am not sure whether it’s me
or Malaysia’s gravitational pull that brings
them over. I suppose I also miss the Danish
summer, the reckless humour, and cheese.
Name: Teodoro Antonio A. Umali
Home Country: The Philippines
Industry/Job: Head of Foundation in Medical Studies and Diploma of Medical
Sciences at Allianze University College of Medical Sciences (AUCMS), Penang
Marital Status: Married with children
I am a doctor living in Penang (on the island) and working at a
medical university on the mainland. I have been here since 2010.
How easily have you adjusted to your life in Malaysia?
It has been quite easy adjusting to life in Malaysia because the
people are very friendly and helpful. Our kids love their school and
have made many new friends. I like the slower pace of life and the
relaxed atmosphere. It has been great to meet new and interesting
people, and my wife and I have established solid friendships along
the way.
What are the three things you like most about living in
Malaysia?
Firstly, I like that there is diversity in culture. It’s a great experience
for the children to be exposed early in life to different cultures
and it helps teach them the value of respect. Second, the food is
delicious and cheap! Thirdly, Malaysia, particularly Penang, is a
good place to raise young children.
Name three typical weekend activities that you enjoy.
We enjoy spending a weekend in Langkawi or taking a drive to
Genting Highlands. We also enjoy a hearty lunch/dinner in one of
our many favourite restaurants in Penang.
Are most of your friends Malaysians or expats?
A mix of both. I find that having friends from different cultures
give me a wider perspective on life.
Do you frequent any restaurants that serve the food from
your homeland?
No. I have heard there are a couple of Filipino restaurants in
Komtar, but we haven’t tried any. Right now, we are perfectly
satisfied with the local food and the many international restaurants
in the island, which are just a stone’s throw away from where we
stay.
What is your favourite Malaysian food?
Char kuey teow, wan tan mee, and roti canai just to name a few.
What one memory will you always treasure when/if you
come to leave Malaysia?
Our family trips to Johor Bahru and Melaka. I will also miss the
friendly people and, of course, the distinct smell of durian.
Name: Jonathan Di Rollo
Home Country: Scotland
Industry/Job: Headhunter, Archer Bahari
Marital Status: Single
Other Countries you have lived: Japan, China, France
A few years ago, I was looking to get back to Asia after a brief
stint in Europe (in the South of France) and I had a community
of friends already living in KL. Despite having spent most of my
adult life in Asia (Japan and China), I had never visited Southeast
Asia, so I moved to KL “on spec” and loved it from the first week
I arrived.
What were your impressions of Malaysia before you came?
I thought Malaysia would be just like Thailand: sunny, beaches,
smiling people. In fact these countries are totally different, except
for the smiling people. Malaysia suits me much better with the
open, friendly, English-speaking people and a mix of different
cultures.
What are the three things you like most about living in
Malaysia?
I like the friends I have here, the politeness of people, and the ease
of travel to other Asian countries.
What are three things you dislike about living in Malaysia?
I dislike the traffic jams, the bad driving, and the misleading road
signs.
Name three places you would take an overseas visitor.
I would take them to Langkawi, Bangsar, and the pub.
Name three typical weekend activities you enjoy.
On the weekend I like get a foot massage, swim in my pool, and I
also do oil painting.
What’s your favourite restaurant and bar in Malaysia?
My Elephant in Sri Hartamas
Do you own property here?
I don’t own any property yet, I am waiting for an interesting
opportunity. With so many new developments coming up all the
time, there is no rush.
Are most of your friends Malaysians or expats?
My friends are a mixture. I had a community of friends in KL before
I arrived – half of which are locals, and half are expats – and I have
also made friends straight off the bat, again a mix of locals and
expats.
What do you miss most about your home country?
I miss the sense of humour of the Scots.
THE EXPAT 25
resident tourism ...
When Nature Calls
TAKE YOUR VISITORS TO SOME OF THE GREENEST SPOTS IN THE COUNTRY THANKS
TO MANVEEN MAAN’S GUIDE TO THE TEN BEST ECO SIGHTS IN MALAYSIA.
M
alaysia is blessed with a
perennial tropical climate and
lush greenery that might make
Middle Earth look like the Atacama Desert.
Locals and foreigners alike flock to the
abundance of forest reserves and island
getaways to witness the raw beauty of
an untamed landscape, so make sure that
you introduce your own guests to some
of Malaysia’s most stunning natural spots.
Here’s a look at nature at its finest all
around the country.
KUALA SELANGOR FIREFLIES
RESORT PARK
The famous fireflies of Bukit Berembang
are still one of the most popular attractions
in the country. In the area nicknamed
Kampung Kelip-Kelip (Firefly Village), a
sunset cruise down the river will leave
you mesmerised. The view of thousands
of fireflies lighting up the sky is indeed a
sight to behold, as each glowworm emits
a unique light pattern. Located just two
hours from Kuala Lumpur, the surrounding
area is also renowned for many good
restaurants along the waterfront – perfect
for a quick bite beforehand.
PULAU PAYAR MARINE PARK
Located just off the west coast of
Peninsular Malaysia, the Pulau Payar
Marine Park is a coral reef teeming with
tropical fish and was the first marine park
created in Western Malaysia. It is easily
accessible from Kuala Kedah, Langkawi,
and Penang and so has become one of
the west coast’s most popular diving
sites, it also boasts a myriad of marine life
including feather starfish, rainbow runners,
barracuda, and ghost fish. Aside from
the colorful fish there are sea turtles, sea
anemones, reef sharks, and octopus to
keep you company beneath the
waves, as well as an old fishing boat
wreck to explore.
MOUNT KINABALU
Towering as it does over the eastern
state of Sabah at 4,095m above sea
level, Mount Kinabalu is the fourth-tallest
mountain in the Malay Archipelago and
attracts travellers from the world over to
climb its slopes in search of the perfect
sunrise. This UNESCO-listed World Heritage
Site is recognised as one of the most
important biological sites in the world:
an estimated 6,000 plant species call the
mountain and its surrounding National
Park home, including 326 species of birds
and over 100 mammals.
All climbs involve an overnight stay and an
early morning trek to the summit so book
well in advance to avoid disappointment –
these trails are in high demand!
ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
Established in 1989 within the Krau
Wildlife Reserve, the sanctuary is
managed by the Malaysian Department
of Wildlife and National Parks and located
near Lanchang town in Pahang. Since
inception, the Kuala Gandah Elephant
Conservation Centre has been at the
forefront of raising, rehabilitating, and
relocating elephants to larger national
parks throughout Peninsular Malaysia
A visit to this park is a chance to get
up close with these majestic and gentle
creatures, hitch a ride on them through
the tropical jungle, or even give them a
quick bath at the river, with the help of
the guides.
PENANG BUTTERFLY FARM
Opened in 1986, the Penang Butterfly
Farm is effectively a “live” museum
in which to enjoy the beauty of over
4,000 rare, endangered, and indigenous
butterflies. The Farm is also a conservation
and research centre so a visit ensures you
receive a lesson in butterfly and insect
conservation, learn about the threat to
their habitats, and the fragile aspects of
nature. Situated at the foot of the Teluk
Bahang Hills and easy to get to, the
Butterfly Farm brings in plenty of families
thanks to the daily insect and reptile shows.
SATANG TURTLE ISLAND NATIONAL
PARK
Surrounded by the pristine waters of
the South China Sea, the Satang Turtle
Island National Park is a sanctuary for rare
Hawksbill turtles who return each year to
lay their eggs. Visit the turtle conservation
and hatchery area and learn about the
conservation program on the island. The
ocean also plays home to an abundance of
coral and marine life and it is possible to
swim with these beautiful creatures as well
as partake in a guided stroll through the
National Park’s jungle-filled interior.
The Park can only be visited on an
organised tour as certain areas are offlimits to the general public – conservation
is of utmost priority in these parts.
NIAH NATIONAL PARK
Niah National Park is 480km up the coast
from Kuching and spreads over 3,140
hectares of peat swamp, forests, limestone
formations, and caves. Its main attraction
is the Niah Great Cave, a world renowned
archeological site where a 40,000-year-old
skull was unearthed, along with tools and
ornaments dating back to the Stone Age.
Another popular attraction is the Painted
Cave, used by prehistoric man for religious
and burial rituals. This is also the site of
the famous cave paintings, and depictions
of human figures rendered in thick red
hematite cover some 30m of the interior
walls.
KINABATANGAN RIVER CRUISE
Located in Sandakan Division, Sabah, on
the eastern tip of Borneo, the 560km-long
Kinabatangan River sustains one of the
world’s richest ecosystems and is one of
the best places to observe wildlife in its
natural habitat.
GUNUNG MULU NATIONAL PARK
Located in the Malaysian part of
Borneo, the Gunung Mulu National Park
encompasses incredible caves and karst
formations in a mountainous rainforest
setting. Home to one of the largest cave
chambers in the world, the national park
also houses Mount Mulu, a towering
2,377-m sandstone mountain.
Other than being home to Borneo’s
indigenous orangutan and proboscis
monkey, the lower basin of the river has
the largest concentration of wildlife in the
region, and all eight species of hornbill
found in Borneo make the area their
home. A dawn or dusk river trip is the best
opportunity to catch a glimpse of Asian
elephants or a Sumatran rhinos wandering
through the trees. Optional tours can
also be arranged for night safaris to spot
crocodiles, birds, and nocturnal animals.
The park features enormous and vast
cave networks, rock pinnacles, cliffs,
and gorges. With limestone and rock
formations dating back almost 90 million
years, this is a historical and geological
wonder. The park also houses Clearwater
Cave, a mammoth cave with one of the
world’s largest underground river systems.
SANDAKAN SEPILOK ORANGUTAN
REHABILITATION CENTRE
Established in the Kabili-Sepilok rainforest
reserve in 1964, the rehabilitation centre
is one of only four places in the world set
up to preserve and protect orangutans.
These lovable creatures are cared for at
the rehabilitation centre until they are
strong or old enough to return to live
independently in the Borneo jungle. A
raised wooden walkway takes you to
the observation deck where orangutans
emerge from the rainforest to be fed by
the rangers. This is the best time to watch
the orangutans as they roam free and
unseen in the surrounding jungle, so take
your camera!
THE EXPAT 27
Welcome to My City
EXPATS ENTERTAIN A STEADY STREAM OF VISITORS HERE IN MALAYSIA AND,
HOWEVER MUNDANE YOU MAY COME TO FIND THE SIGHTS, IT IS IMPORTANT
TO GIVE ALL YOUR GUESTS THE BEST TOUR YOU CAN TO SHOWCASE YOUR
NEW HOME! NEED AN ITINERARY? SARAH REES IS HERE TO HELP.
N
o matter how jaded we may get
with the capital city we call home,
it is important not to forget that,
for the large number of foreign visitors, KL
is a new, fascinating, unknown place. It
is your job to take your tour guide duties
seriously and give your newly arrived pals a
taste of the best the city has to offer. Each
visiting person will help you see Malaysia in
a new way, and you may find some gems
you overlooked or have simply forgotten,
so don’t get despondent!
After a lengthy journey in a plane seat,
your visitors will probably be fired up for
taking to the streets and getting to grips
with what the city has to offer on ground
level, so why not shun the car for your
feet and get down to where KL really
began, and to where the historical roots
can educate visitors on the journey the
city took from muddy swamp to modern
masterpiece.
Start at Pasar Seni station…
Avoid plunging your guests into the whirl
and noise of Chinatown by disembarking
at Pasar Seni LRT and exiting via the
bridge that connects the modern station
that of the KTM headquarters building on
the opposite side of the road.
Religious splendor…
By crossing using the subway and heading
onwards towards the Lake Gardens, you
can provide yet another top photography
spot in the form of the National Mosque,
its blue roof glinting and shimmering
(hopefully) in the sunlight. A walk onwards
and up the steep – but short – hill on the
left (Jalan Lembah) will take you to the
Islamic Arts Museum. This eye-catching
white building offers some cool air
conditioning and an impressive array of
arts both past and present (open daily,
10am-6pm), as well as a nice restaurant
for refreshments (closed Mondays).
to the old railway station. This Moorish
masterpiece is a wonderful piece of
history, and the bridge will take you inside,
with stairs allowing you access along the
platform and across to the main lobby
area. Take a short break to look at the
exhibits that constitute a mini “museum”
– old seats, old pictures – before emerging
into the warmth. Pause to allow for ample
photographs of the splendid exterior and
Nature at its best…
Emerge from the museum and you will
realise that you already on the edge of
the Lake Gardens, a place that demands a
visit no matter the age and inclination of
your guests. The active can walk along the
paths towards the lake and the park, while
the old or young may prefer to jump in a
taxi (there are plenty) and head to one of
the many attractions: the Bird Park (open
daily 9am-6pm) is quite spectacular, while
the Butterfly Park (open daily 9am-6pm)
will enchant anyone with an interest in
nature. End your exploration at the far
side of the Lake Gardens where a kids’
playground will let the little ones burn off
some energy and a stall provides drinks
and excellent curry puffs.
Take to the street…
Exit onto Jalan Parlimen and cross over the
road to get a photograph of the National
Monument, which stands proud to honour
all those who have died in conflict in this
region. Continue along the road to head
back towards the city, via a small, neat
park where benches provide some shady
rest for those with weary legs. Once you
use the traffic lights to get across the
large roundabout, you will find yourself at
the front of the Royal Selangor Club, and
on the edges of KL’s architectural crown
jewels. Merdeka Square will delight your
visitors with its style, history, and plentiful
photograph opportunities, while the KL
City Gallery (open daily 8.30am-6.30pm)
or St. Mary’s Cathedral – both on the
Square – are good places to escape the
heat and learn more about the area.
Sustenance and Shopping…
Cross the main road (Jalan Rajah) and
walk along Jalan Mahkamah Persekutuan
to get a good view of Masjid Jamek (the
city’s first mosque) before heading left
over the bridge (Leboh Pasar Besar) and
introducing your guests to the splendours
of Chinatown. Bellies can be filled and
wallets emptied around here, and there are
plenty of choices for both.
Central Market is always lovely and jampacked with souvenir shops, plus the food
court on the second floor is a good way
to introduce nervous guests to local grub.
The more adventurous should be taken
down Petaling Street, where plastic stools
and wipe-clean chopsticks are the only
companions for a lunch they won’t forget.
Time for some temples….
There is so much to see in this area that
you will be spoilt for choice, but if your
guests are not too weary, take them
around the back alleys of the Chinatown
area to glimpse the charming shophouses
still packed with everything from exotic
animals to buttons, flowers to incense
sticks. There are also many very old
temples hidden around here (Hindu,
Buddhist, and Muslim), and most are wellsigned, so take a walk!
Home time…
You are now just a few minutes away from
Pasar Seni LRT station, where a train can
take you back to chez tu for a swim and
a rest after your long day of sightseeing!
The evening stretches ahead of you, and is
a whole new opportunity for experience:
Jalan Alor for some local food? Bukit
Bintang for a look at the lights? Or the
fountain show at KLCC that delights the
crowd every evening? A meal at the top
of the KL Tower is a flashy option, or head
back to Petaling Street to see the place
come to life; the choice is yours!
THE EXPAT 29
KL’s Sensational Shopping
COMFORTABLE WALKING
SHOES? CHECK. WALLET
FULL OF CREDIT CARDS?
CHECK. SOME OF
THE WORLD’S MOST
SPECTACULAR SHOPPING
IS FOUND RIGHT HERE IN
KUALA LUMPUR. EDITOR
CHAD MERCHANT
SHRUGS OFF THE RISK
OF BUYER’S REMORSE
AND REVELS IN A BIT OF
RETAIL THERAPY AS HIS
ADOPTED CITY FINDS
ITSELF INCREASINGLY
NAMED NEAR THE TOP
ON A VARIETY OF “BEST
SHOPPING” LISTS.
I
t’s no secret to our neighbours to the
south that Kuala Lumpur is a shopper’s
paradise. Singaporeans flock to KL in
droves to take advantage of Malaysia’s
excellent value. From regional favourites
to iconic international brands, all the
most popular names are found right here,
and shopaholics from all over Asia find
themselves tempted and tantalised as they
flit from boutique to department store
in some of the world’s biggest and best
shopping malls. If you want to act like a
tourist for a day in your own city, a trip to
the mall is a good start.
Though it’s not a surprise to see KL
featured on a list of the world’s top
shopping cities, it’s certainly astonishing
to place so near the top. In fact, in CNN’s
recent “World’s 10 Best Shopping Cities”
list, which named the international cities
that consistently delivered the best, most
gratifying shopping experiences, KL placed
fourth, bested only by the world-beating
financial and shopping triumvirate of New
York, Tokyo, and London, in first to third
places, respectively. For CNN’s research,
they not only used an scoring formula
that judged cities in four categories –
getting around, value, variety, and overall
experience – they consulted worldwide
experts like Donegar Creative Services and
Global Blue, which publishes the Globe
Shopper City Index.
And speaking of that index, Kuala Lumpur
was recently ranked there as Asia’s secondbest shopping city, just a bit behind Hong
Kong. Global Blue uses a comprehensive
approach in its index methodology,
factoring in quantitative data such
as number of shops, availability of
international brands, number and duration
of seasonal sales, exchange-rate stability,
and cost of in-city accommodation,
as well as more qualitative data, like
popular events, immigration procedures,
transportation convenience, and
agreeability of climate. To make indicators
directly comparable across cities, these
values were turned into standardised
scores on a scale of 0 to 100. They were
THE EXPAT 31
then aggregated into category scores and
an overall score. Kuala Lumpur scored 65.1
overall, which compares quite favourably
to European pacesetter London’s overall
score of 67.3. Malaysia’s capital city ranked
particularly high in the subcategories of
number and range of malls and boutiques,
affordability of hotels, dining options and
international cuisine, and shopping hours.
Digging deeper in the CNN ranking,
KL earned its impressive score due to a
“winning combination of high-quality
shopping, affordable prices and reliable
sales, which can stretch for several
months.” Not a surprise to KL residents,
given the comfortable ease with which
fine dining outlets sit next to hawker
centres, and how shoppers can go from
browsing the boutiques of some of the
world’s loftiest brand names before lunch
to haggling over the price of pashmina
scarves and traditional herbs in Chinatown
by early afternoon.
And if KL isn’t garnering attention
worldwide for its variety of shops and
range of goods and services, then
it’s making a lot of noise by flexing
its breathtaking “mall muscle.” An
astounding three of the world’s largest
ten malls – and four in the top 15 – are
in the KL area. Surely the most posh are
mainstays like Suria KLCC, Starhill Gallery,
and Pavilion KL. But for sheer size, you
can’t beat 1 Utama, the fourth-largest mall
on Earth. With some five million square
aim for a strike at its 48-lane bowling alley,
catch the newest Hollywood release at the
cinema, or even lace up the skates and
take to the ice at its popular ice rink.
Of course, if it’s high-end international
branded goods you want, head for the
city centre. The world’s most luxurious
names in jewellry, fashion, and more can
all be found in KL’s Golden Triangle. In
fact, for those with a taste for high-end
watches and jewellry, it could be that
Starhill Gallery will meet every conceivable
desire. With nearly three dozen superlative
boutiques offering the latest designs, this
luxury retail mall truly embodies top-tier
shopping at its very finest. Of course, just
steps away from Starhill is the posh mall
that anchors the Bukit Bintang shopping
scene, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. With over
500 stores, Pavilion KL serves up the
ultimate expression of designer luxury with
an impressive collection of international
boutiques. When it comes to couture,
Pavilion is a world-class destination of
choice for the fashion-minded.
feet of leasable space, this behemoth
monument to retail therapy houses
over 700 stores, and offers two cinema
multiplexes, as well. All this shopping
goodness is spread over two huge wings
and with so many shopping choices under
one roof, 1 Utama consistently draws the
crowds from near and far.
Not far behind is the appropriately named
Mid Valley Megamall, eighth-largest in
the world. This vast and well-known
mall serves up 4.5 million square feet of
shopping space, and that’s before adding
in its upscale sister mall, The Gardens.
With a dizzying array of shops in these
conjoined malls – from specialty wine
stores and dozens of dining options to
the boutiques of well-known brands such
as Louis Vuitton, Armani Exchange, and
Versace, marathon shoppers can burn up
their credit cards as they burn off some
calories… the Mid Valley complex will
ensure you put those comfortable walking
shoes to good use.
Next on the list is the sprawling Sunway
Pyramid, which ranks as the ninthlargest mall in the world. This landmark
complex, with its giant pyramid and sphinx
leaving no doubt as to where you are,
offers some 800 shops and stores to the
adventurous shoppers who arrive en masse
every weekend to not only browse the
department stores and fashion boutiques,
but to eat at the mall’s many food outlets,
And if that’s not enough shopping for
you, just take an easy stroll through
air-conditioned walkways from Pavilion
to Suria KLCC, the stunning mall set
beneath the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.
With six floors of shops big and small,
there’s something here for everyone. For
fashionistas, brands such as Chanel, Jimmy
Choo, Cartier, Giorgio Armani beckon,
while top department stores like Isetan,
Parkson, and Marks & Spencer provide
one-stop shopping for clothes, fragrances,
and housewares.
As Kuala Lumpur continues to make a
bigger splash on the international stage,
it cannot be overlooked the role that
shopping has played in the city’s evolution
to becoming a world-class city. Malaysians
have long known the variety, value, and
sheer scale of KL shopping, and now,
increasingly, the rest of the world is coming
to appreciate it, as well.
THE EXPAT 33
an afternoon with the ambassador ...
BY MANVEEN MAAN
Planning for Success
“I
f you fail to plan, you plan to fail”
is an adage His Excellency Jorge
Alberto Lozoya has adhered to
his entire life. The Ambassador of Mexico
is no stranger to carrying out a perfectly
curated path to success, having begun his
journey to where he is today at the tender
age of 15.
“I always wanted to be in this line of
work,” he says with conviction. “For my
15th birthday, my parents got me a bus
ticket to New York City. The first thing I
did was visit the United Nations, and I was
awestruck by it. At the end of the tour, I
asked the guide what the requirements
to work there were, and she very kindly
gave me tips! Years later, I was chairing a
meeting at the UN and it suddenly hit me
that I had made it,” he says proudly.
A lifetime of careful planning has been
the key factor in Lozoya’s rise to the top
of his field. “I worked very systematically
to reach my goals,” he explains. “I studied
in the Soviet Union at 17, followed by
attending several very good universities
in the US, studying International
Relations and keeping abreast with
current affairs.” Working like clockwork,
Lozoya’s meticulous strategy gained him a
highly sought after place in the Mexican
Diplomatic Academy before being posted
to the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
A Latin American pioneer on Asian
affairs, Lozoya’s interest in the region has
spanned over 40 years, and he is proud to
have belonged to the first generation of
Western political scientists who predicted
the re-emergence of Asia as a leading
political and economic social force. “When
I was finishing my graduate studies, I
spent a year at the National University
in Taipei in Taiwan. It was a tumultuous
time, the middle of the Vietnam War, but
I was extremely impressed by the beauty
of Southeast Asia and it heightened my
interest in the region.“
Following his initial visit to Malaysia in
1968, Lozoya had the unique opportunity
of widening his experiences in Asia by
working closely with the local government
over the next few decades, never
expecting to be posted to the country on
a more permanent basis. “I undertook
many projects in the scientific, educational,
and business sense and regularly visited
Malaysia, so when the President of Mexico
invited me to be the ambassador to
Malaysia in 2006, I was delighted,” he
exclaims. “I’ve always been an admirer of
the extraordinary advancement Malaysia
has achieved in a short period of time.”
In his six years of improving MexicoMalaysia relations, Lozoya admits his
scholar roots played an important role in
one particular accolade he is notably proud
of. “A moment that will always stand
out in my mind was when I was made a
professor of UKM (National University of
Malaysia),” he beams. “It was such a great
honour in my academic career and I was so
thrilled both governments accepted it.”
Indeed, Lozoya’s hard work and dedication
to his duties have borne fruit. While
serving as ambassador, he negotiated
several important deals, including getting
Malaysia to enthusiastically vote in favour
of Mexico joining the deliberations
for the establishment of the new free
trade agreement called the Trans-Pacific
Partnership. His time here has also seen
Malaysia become Mexico’s premier trade
partner in Southeast Asia, and Lozoya
is confident that in the near future this
intensity of commercial exchange will
increase.
Lozoya attributes his success in diplomacy
and cultural affairs to a unique hypothesis
– a belief that if the mind and senses are
trained for success, it will ultimately be
achieved. “It is just like athletes. They train
for the Olympics – I train for the Olympics
of diplomacy!” he says, with a laugh.
This regime has benefitted his work in
international relations, especially when
it involved coming to terms with his
counterparts from different nations.
“You need to train yourself to adapt to
different cultures and ways of business,”
he explains. “You learn to work intensively,
listen, and observe closely. This is key
because in order to come to an agreement,
you have to learn to grant the other the
chance to tell you his or her understanding
of the situation. Quite often, you find that
you both have similar perceptions.”
Despite his globetrotting lifestyle, it is the
quiet moments in his desert hometown
state of Chihuahua that Lozoya misses the
most. “I miss the peace of provincial living.
People who aren’t from the desert often
think it is dry and empty and we (locals)
laugh because the desert is full of life and
mystery. I miss small towns,” he admits.
And what will he miss most about
Malaysia, now that his post here has come
to an end?
“Time travel – you can travel centuries
in a few hours. You can visit the modern
Petronas Twin Towers and a half hour
later be at the Batu Caves; then spend an
afternoon at a museum taking in a slice of
ancient history, then shop ‘til you drop at
some of the best malls in the world,” he
says. “I’ll definitely be back. I love the food
and fantastic bookstores here.” No doubt;
he’s already planned his return trip.
THE EXPAT 35
Lone Pine: Leisure Done Right
B
atu Ferringhi has long been the
favoured spot for tourists visiting
Penang. It was here that the
Malaysian international tourism industry
really started, and many people knew
the name “Penang” before they knew
“Malaysia.” This is one of the reasons
why many retirees under the Malaysia My
Second Home programme often choose to
settle on the island.
While other tourist destinations around
Malaysian have emerged relatively recently
and grown in popularity, Penang has
managed to stay the course. It was assisted
by UNESCO declaring part of George
Town as a World Heritage site, which has
resulted in some beautiful restoration work
on some of the old buildings.
Though not located in the UNESCO area,
one hotel which has nevertheless stood the
test of time is the Lone Pine, which was the
first hotel in Batu Ferringhi. Originally just
a single bungalow facing the sea back in
1948, the hotel had a lone Casuarina tree
on the lawn which was mistaken for a pine
tree, hence the name. These days, there
are many Casuarina trees on the beautiful
lawns overlooking the sea, and that single
bungalow, now the Lone Pine’s main
restaurant, has plenty of company, too.
In recent years, the hotel has undergone
extensive renovations and is now
thoroughly modernised and enlarged,
yet still manages to retain its timeless
ANDY DAVISON TAKES HIS FAMILY TO THE BEACH IN
PENANG AND ENJOYS A RELAXING FEW DAYS AT BATU
FERRINGHI’S VERY FIRST HOTEL, TODAY ONE OF THE FINEST
LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTELS ON THE NORTH COAST.
elegance and historical charm. That
original bungalow is now the place to
go for a superb buffet breakfast spread,
which kept my family returning for more.
At other times of the day, a good selection
of Western and Asian fare is offered.
Personally, I fell in love with their superb
lamb stew, despite it being rather more
spicy than I normally eat. The Batu Bar is
refined and modern, with glass walls as
its primary design element. It’s a lovely
place to relax with a drink and enjoy the
views. Upstairs there is a small Japanese
restaurant, as well.
The hotel would probably suit couples
more so than families, but having said
that, my children still had a great time. If
they weren’t splashing and swimming in
the pool, they were enjoying swinging on
one of the hammocks strung between the
Casuarina tree and begging me to buy one
for our house.
The rooms are beautifully done and open
out onto the garden, beach, and sea. The
north coast of Penang also serves up some
splendid sunsets, so it’s a wonderful choice
for slowing down, savouring the views,
and just recharging the batteries.
If you are looking for a delightful spot to
relax and unwind, the Lone Pine Hotel
is certainly worth considering. It’s a truly
lovely place to stay and they are focused
on providing excellent service. My family
and I enjoyed our time there immensely
and I can recommend it without hesitation.
THE EXPAT 37
festivals ...
What Animal Are You?
WITH THE CHINESE NEW YEAR ARRIVING THIS MONTH
IN A FLURRY OF CELEBRATION, THE APPROACHING
YEAR BEING DEEMED THAT OF THE SNAKE WILL HAVE
MANY PEOPLE DELVING INTO THE INTRIGUING FACTS
AND FIGURES OF THE CHINESE ZODIAC. SARAH REES
LOOKS A LITTLE CLOSER.
“W
hat are you?” can
be something that
is demanded of the
unsuspecting foreigner during the
festivities of Chinese New Year, and it
take a while to realise that the question
relates to signs of the Chinese zodiac.
Anyone and everyone who has been here
in Malaysia in the past few weeks of build
up to Chinese New Year will already be
familiar with the twelve animals of the
zodiac, each representing a year on a
twelve-year cycle. A few taps into google
will tell you which animal year is yours, a
merry half hour can be spent ready about
your “personality traits”. I am, it seems,
“charming but pedantic”.
The idea and the so-called insights are
easy to shake off as superstitious mumbojumbo, along with the idea of fortune
tellers, mysterious strangers, and black
cats a-wandering. Like many things we
encounter during our time in Malaysia,
however, there is more to the Chinese
zodiac than meets the eye, and while
delving deeper may not convert you the
belief that it is true, it is quite intriguing
to learn that the practice and history
extends far beyond fluffy toys and fluffy
predictions, and that many people have,
over generations, paid a huge amount of
attention to this form of astrology.
MYTHS GALORE
As with so many traditions with roots
that disappear into the fog of history,
the origin of the twelve animals of the
Chinese zodiac is not known. The cutest
story tells of a race the Emperor called
between twelve animals, and their order
of crossing the finish line has become the
order of the year rotations. Other, more
pragmatic suggestions, link the animals
to the ancient Chinese astronomy and the
use of Jupiter as a constant. Jupiter’s orbit
takes twelve years to complete, and thus
time was thought of in 12-year chunks,
with each year having twelve months. The
animals were picked to make it easier for
people to remember what was what, and
which year was coming.
However it came into being, the animals
and the zodiac have existed as far as
history recedes, and pottery artefacts
confirm that the twelve symbols were
popular as far back as the Tang Dynasty,
which ran from 618-907A.D. It continues
to be popular to this day, and while many
just enjoy the novelty of the animals and
delight in reading the shallow predictions,
there are many that look deeper into the
true art of the Chinese zodiac, and use it,
for better or worse, to navigate their lives.
PILLARS AND PEOPLE
It is common for people to only associate
these animal signs with years, but animals
are also assigned for months, days, and
hours, so each person’s birth moment
throws up a combination of four different
animals. The month, day, and hour gives a
person what is considered to be the inner,
true, and secret animal, respectively.
The four animals are actually a cute
way of referring to the Four Pillars of
Destiny (or Ba Zi Astrology), and these
were considered to decide your fate and
allowing astrologers to make predictions
or suggestions for people seeking
guidance.
The “year” pillar was thought to provide
information about the person’s family
background or their relationship with
their grandparents, while the month
refers to the person’s parents or childhood
and considered by some to be the most
important facet in determining fate.
The day pillar refers to the person’s
adult life – who they are away from the
family connection – and the hour pillar is
thought to refer to a person’s children or
their legacy; what contribution will the
person make to life.
The different pillars and the interaction
between the different animals were
believed to be able to reveal much about
a person and their destiny, and are also
used to predict whether relationships
will work, and whether two people are
compatible for one another.
CHINA AND BEYOND
The pillars and the various intricacies
Chinese astrology is very much a part
of Chinese culture and tradition, and is
popular in many parts of Asia where the
Chinese have, many years ago, found
new homes.
For the majority of the world, there only
interaction with this branch of astrology
is when the animals come out at Chinese
New Year, while both the Korean and
Japanese New Year uses the twelve
animals on their festive paraphernalia.
Countries throughout the world make
a point of heralding in the new year of
the X, with special stamps appearing
on letters from the UK and the US,
while Google will always jazz up their
homepage with an interactive image of
the latest animal.
And yet, for all this worldwide
knowledge, few people realise or
understand the deeper significance and
the intriguing practice of Ba Zi fortune
telling, and it is a topic worth some time
for anyone fascinated by what can seem
to some, a magic art. The underlying
message is a good one; your moment of
birth can have an impact on who you are,
but destiny is still in your hands.
THE EXPAT 39
iskandar malaysia...
Lower Carbon Emissions
Thanks to LCS Blueprint
A
t the end of November, Iskandar
Regional Development Authority
(IRDA) launched the Iskandar
Malaysia Low Carbon Society (LCS)
Blueprint in a bid to reduce the economic
corridor’s carbon intensity emissions by
50% once it reaches maturity in 2025.
The blueprint was a result of a joint
effort between Japan and Malaysia,
which started in July 2011. The project
“Development of Low Carbon Society
Scenarios for Asian Regions” was initiated
by the Science and Technology Research
Partnership for Sustainable Development
(SATREPS).
Sponsored by the Japanese International
Cooperation Agency (JICA), the
project brought together a team of
multidisciplinary researchers from Kyoto
University, the National Institute for
Environmental Studies (NIES), Okayama
University, and Universiti Teknologi
Malaysia (UTM) with a view to defining
LCS visions and crafting a road map
towards LCS at the national and cityregional level. This is in line with Malaysia’s
voluntary commitment to reduce the
country’s carbon intensity by up to 40%
by 2020 (based on 2005 levels), and the
research project began with a pilot study
of Iskandar Malaysia.
IRDA Chief Executive, Datuk Ismail Ibrahim,
who launched the Blueprint at a side event
at the 18th session of the Conference of
Parties (COP18) held on 30 November
2012, said the twelve actions outlined in
the blueprint will start being implemented
in the first quarter of 2013.
“Some of the initial programme we have
launched are the pilot project for Low
Carbon Village at Felda Taib Andak, the
use of CASBEE tools to assess Iskandar
Malaysia’s regional environmental
performance, and the launching of
Iskandar Malaysia Smart City Framework.
“We are in discussion with several
Japanese companies who have intentions
and interests in conducting pilot projects
relating to smart city concepts in Iskandar
Malaysia,” said Ismail.
Ismail continued, expressing his pleasure
that Iskandar Malaysia’s potential continues
to be recognised at an international and
global platform by successful and more
developed countries, such as Japan.
It is his hope, Ismail added, that the
blueprint be a rallying call for all
Malaysians as well as foreign friends and
partners to play a proactive part in its
implementation to achieve a society that
is low carbon, and a development region
that is based on a green economy and
sustainable and green economic growth.
“IRDA’s approach in the development of
Iskandar Malaysia is through a Greenfocused Agenda, whereby the Authority
has made a commitment that a green and
sustainable environment is the focus.
a green economy and low carbon green
growth,” said Ismail, adding that IRDA
intends to adopt a similar approach in the
development of the Iskandar Malaysia
region.
“We strongly believe that the astute
management of natural resources is the
most important aspect of sustainable
development; and sets the context
within which all other factors – from
land use proposals and development
to social engineering, service provision
and economic prosperity – must be
considered,” stressed Ismail.
This Blueprint, with its twelve Actions,
must be implemented in a timely and
proactive manner by all and IRDA, as the
regional authority, will play a lead role in
ensuring that the Actions are carried out.
UTM and IRDA’s research partners from
Japan will continue to play key roles in the
implementation of these Actions, in which
they are the main catalysts.
He further added that “without
‘the green,’ there is no sustainable
development, and through strong policies
backed by extensive research, IRDA will
plan, manage, and develop the region
through close collaboration with all
stakeholders and especially the local
communities, whose knowledge and
intimate experiences of their environment
are critical to a well-planned economic
region.”
Through the Low Carbon Society research
project (2011-2015), the Malaysian and
Japanese research teams have come up
with substantial research findings that
IRDA has now interpreted into policies
that can be implemented – policies and
proposals that are both workable and
bankable.
“The launch of the Low Carbon Society
Blueprint for Iskandar Malaysia is timely
because many countries are now refocusing their economic visions towards
TM
Iskandar Regional Development
Authority (IRDA); G-01, Block 8,
Danga Bay, Jalan Skudai
80200 Johor Bahru
Tel: 07.233 3000
Fax: 07.233 3001
For further information, please visit:
Iskandar Malaysia Information
Centre (IMIC); Bay Leaf A, Danga Bay
Convention Centre, Jalan Skudai,
80200 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
OR
Contact our Customer Service Hotline
Toll Free: 1-800-88-3010
Email: enquiries@irda.com.my
Web: www.iskandarmalaysia.com.my
All assistance is given free of charge.
THE EXPAT 41
expat homes ...
Saying Goodbye
SOME OF THE MOST STUNNING HOMES IN
MALAYSIA ARE OWNED AND OCCUPIED BY
EXPATS SEEKING TO CREATE AN OASIS FOR
THEMSELVES IN THEIR NEW COUNTRY. HERE,
SARAH REES TAKES US ON A TOUR OF ONE
OF THESE BEAUTIFUL HABITATS.
A
s April Guess invites
us into her home, she
does so with a rueful
smile. “We are about to move
back to the UK,” she explains,
holding the large wooden
door wide, “but I wish we
were staying here!” It is easy
to see why leaving is a painful
prospect – this three-storey
family home hidden in a small
gated community in Mont Kiara
is the epitome of cosy, family
living. The white walls and large
windows have provided a blank
canvas on which the artistic April has splashed all manner of treasures that remind the
Guess family of their nomadic and multi-cultural life.
We cannot proceed, however, without remarking on the view. “As soon as people arrive
they want to rush over to the balcony,” admits April, smiling out from the long balcony. A
wall of jungle sits just across a river far below, and the hum of insect life is the only sound
to be heard despite this enclave being just a short distance from the highway. “Every day
Robin and I sit on the balcony with a cup of tea and just watch,” she says. “You see all sort
of birds, and even monkeys in the evening!”
Husband Robin is a Brit who arrived in April’s homeland of Myanmar 24 years ago to
whisk her away to a life of travelling, and she look backs at the past quarter century and
laughs delightedly at how life has developed. “I didn’t like travelling at all back then,” she
admitted, “but now I just love it! I am always looking forward to the next trip!” Every trip
involves returning with booty for their home, although a prominent theme is Burmese art
and culture, which appears in the paintings, the furniture, and the silverware that April
collects whenever she is visiting her home country.
The silver collection, however, has a far more personal importance
than one would assume. “When I was younger we had this beautiful
silver ceremonial dish that we had to sell,” she recalls sadly. “In
Myanmar, it is common to put your initials on the bottom of things
like that, so whenever I find a new piece that looks like it I always take
a look, just in case!” She hasn’t yet found that special dish, but she
has acquired a splendid array of silver items along the way, some of
the most beautiful of which are betel boxes.
These ornate boxes would traditionally be laid out for guests and
visitors to enable them to create their own chewy treat. “No one uses
them anymore,” she admits. Indeed, her own entertaining style is
somewhat different, and while the middle floor of the house has a dry
kitchen and seating area for drinks and snacks, the lower level boasts
a grand, long dining table where April serves up her meals – “I cook
everything! Italian, Burmese, Indian, Chinese; I have also tried to learn
some Malaysian dishes while we have been here.” The view from the
table is one of the private plunge pool – each of the 30 houses on the
estate has one – although April admits the family are more likely to be
found curled up with books, of which there are many, covering diverse
topics and languages and bearing testament to the multi-cultural roots
of this family.
April has always been keen to introduce her twin daughters (they are
now 15) to aspects of her Burmese culture, buying them Burmese
puppets and having a traditional ear piercing ceremony performed
– “a musician played the Burmese harp during the ceremony,” she
remembers fondly, showing me the harp that she has on a cabinet.
Its not just the Burmese connection that attracts both April and Robin to
their furnishings; they share a great admiration for fine craftsmanship,
and they have amassed many exquisite pieces during their time in South
East Asia. “Robin collects these beautiful silk pashminas from India,”
says April. “We both love handmade things. The detail is just amazing,
and the effort that has gone in to making these things is wonderful.”
One of her most interesting pieces is a set of tea cups from Japan that
have an image of the original owner painted on the bottom so lightly,
it only becomes visible when the cup is aloft to the light. “Aren’t these
extraordinary?” she asks delightedly. “I just love collecting things, but I
have to stop as we run out of space!”
And yet the house is wonderfully spacious, with five bedrooms (all ensuite) set over three levels and complete with a long balcony, a pool,
and a little side garden that April tends to. “I trained to be a botanist,”
she explains, “so I love doing a little bit of gardening!” They are lucky,
perhaps, that the house proved to be so suited to
them, as they bought the plot before the structure
had even been built. “We just saw the view and
fell in love with it,” she recalls. “We weren’t sure
whether we were going to rent it out or live in it,
but it turned out to be our home and we adore it.”
There is no doubt that she will be sad to leave.
The family may have only lived in the house three
years out of their 12-year affair with Malaysia, but
Malaysia has become their home. “This is the first
place we lived as a family of four, so my heart is
always here. But we are not really leaving,” she
concludes, with a laugh, “we will be back for
every holiday!”
THE EXPAT 43
travel ...
Where the Caged Bird Sings
I
n the amber light of his table lamp, the
old fortune teller scrutinizes my face
the way his forbearers have done for
centuries. He smiles gently and tells me
my nose indicates a prosperous life. I sip
my tong cha and contemplate the street
before me, lined by other others of his
profession who wait for willing strangers
to share a glimpse of the future with. It
is not the future, however, but the living
present of this street that intrigues me.
This is Temple Street or Miu Kai – Hong
Kong’s most famous flea market.
TEMPLES AND BARGAINS
Built during the Qing Dynasty era and
named after a Tin Hau temple that still
graces the area today, Temple Street has
an indomitable presence that has made
it a Hong Kong icon. Ruling Kowloon
and plying its trade from post-lunch to
late night, Temple Street market straddles
Jordan and Yau Ma Tei and consists of five
blocks of hawkers offering everything from
potent herbal panaceas to still-twitching
crustaceans, while the quavering strains
of amateur karaoke singers put on their
bathroom best nightly.
From a mindboggling variety of apparel
and souvenirs, to the latest action figures
for your pre-schooler, this ghetto heaven is
a one-stop shopping experience on all that
is quintessentially Hong Kong. If shopping
for that mahjong set has saddled you
with a headache, pop into one of the old
Chinese dispensaries that’s still open for
business on this street. Here, a chap yok
see, or pharmacist, will ease your pain with
a centuries-old traditional Chinese cure.
On the sidewalk one afternoon, I observed
a medicine man who displayed his wares
on a red cloth laid on the ground. On
porcelain saucers lay his herbal remedies,
red angel hair from a Tibetan flower,
caterpillar fungus, and miscellaneous
animal parts.
While immersing yourself in the street’s
exotic culture, treat yourself to a delicious
Hot Pot dinner. Select from a live seafood
selection housed in plastic tubs and
watch as your dinner is scooped out and
prepared to order.
Here, wantan noodles, claypot rice, and
ginger chicken served in alleyways take on
new levels of culinary perfection and are
the ideal representation of Hong Kong’s
unique food culture.
FLASH OF JEWELS
If you are a gemstone lover, avoid the
bustle of Nathan Road and stroll your way
through Kowloon Park to the Jade Market.
Surrounded by Yau Ma Tei and located
below Mong Kok, the market is linked via
Shanghai Street as you move north.
While there has been much redevelopment
in the area in recent years, some vestiges
of the past remain. A three-tonne jade
stone marks the strip of Canton Road
known as Jade Street. The Jade Market
in the flesh is a rich selection of baubles,
home décor, and coins housed in two
warehouses packed with vendors who
have been trading for decades.
Jade has long been associated with long
life and good health in Chinese culture,
making it a prized material for good
luck charms. However, tourists are often
advised to view the locale as a source of
trinkets and not an A-grade hotspot.
Despite being tenacious in their approach,
vendors here are generally agreeable to
about one-third of their opening price –
especially if you are their first customer of
the day. Interestingly, the Jade Market also
features stalls occupied by operators in the
now-rare trade of letter-writing.
STREETS OF SPLENDOURS
Further up, along the endless length
of Shanghai Street, shop for a pack of
custom-made joss sticks created from
blocks of fragrant sandalwood. Walk next
in the opposite direction, up Reclamation
Street, where herbalists ply their business
alongside a mindboggling range of
hardware stores. From industrial-quality
steel supports to a basic pair of pliers,
there is nothing one cannot find down
this street which, oddly, seems to comprise
many pet-loving shop owners. Enjoy the
sight of a contented cat napping at the
cashier counter while you pick out a new
pair of kitchen taps.
NO MATTER HOW MANY TIMES YOU VISIT HONG KONG, THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW
TO SEE AND EXPERIENCE. PAULA TAN GETS LOST IN THE MARKETS AND EMBRACES THE
MYSTICAL CURIOSITIES THAT MAKE THIS CLUSTER OF ISLANDS SO BELOVED.
Several kilometers away, towards the
Mong Kok MTR station, keep an eye open
for Bute Street, which that must be walked
down in order to reach the Flower Market.
The latter is a vibrant splash of colour with
its wealth of blossoms and foliage and
this street is well worth a visit for a sturdy,
leafy, feng shui plant that any vendor will
gladly re-pot for customers to drive away
with. Enhance your luck further with a
specially-selected combination of plants
and flowers that can be put together in
minutes, complete with zodiac figurines
and wealth-attracting garden ornaments.
THE ANIMAL KINGDOM
In this merciless metropolis where
everything has a price, the Bird Market on
Yuen Po Street, adjacent to Flower Market
Street, survives on its aviary of delicate
offerings. Fancy a parakeet or some other
feathered companion? Choices are plenty
and come in elegant bamboo cages that
are included in the price. Spend a morning
at Yuen Po and you will observe visitors,
many of whom are previous customers,
taking their birds for “walks” as they pick
up bags of live grasshoppers for lunch and
hanging the cages within chirping distance
of the market birds, almost as if allowing
them prison visitation rights.
Cross the road to Tung Choi Street’s
Goldfish Market and have fortune smile on
you as you pass shop after shop stocking
all types of goldfish, from the common
variety to rare tropical species costing
thousands of dollars. Trade can be so brisk
that storefronts are lined with racks of
bagged fish ready to go, or you may prefer
something from the impressive range of
turtles and tortoises, sitting mere doors
away from pet stores filled with tumbling
kittens and puppies.
WARDROBE REFILLS
Just a block away from the Goldfish
Market, Fa Yuen Street Market (or Fa Yuen
Kai) is primarily a market for locals, but
has become popular with tourists in recent
years. Running along Fa Yuen Street from
Mong Kok Road to Prince Edward Road, it
is known for its factory outlet stores, cheap
footwear, and hip fashion. Look out for a
wide variety of other goods as well, from
electrical gadgets to fruit and vegetables.
Fa Yuen is very close to the Ladies Market
that lends a soft touch to the city bustle
along parallel Tung Choi Street. When
twenty locations in Kowloon were
designated as “hawker accreditation
areas” in March 1975 by the Hong Kong
government, the Ladies Market was the
first to receive this title. In November 2011,
however, a tragedy occurred when, during
the night, a fire broke out in one of the
stalls and spread to an adjacent building
resulting in the loss of nine lives.
A resilient bloom whose many petals
pander to the feminine, the Ladies Street
market continues to be a must-visit
destination for females thanks to its girlish
wares, from hair ornaments to crystal
mobile phone cases, and even household
products.
On the parchment that is Hong Kong, the
original ink strokes are now blurred and
faded by colonisation and change, and
yet a fierce spirit of survival burns on, a
tangible flame that has shown its people
the way forward. Walk the streets of this
dragon of Asia, and you will see.
Malaysia Airlines flies to Hong
Kong International Airport
direct and the flight time is
approximately three hours and
fifteen minutes. For more details
visit www.malaysiaairlines.com.
Travellers of most nationalities
can arrive into Hong Kong visafree provided their visit does
not exceed a set number of days
(usually 30 days but depends on
the country of citizenship). Check
before you travel by visiting
www.immd.gov.hk.
THE EXPAT 45
books ...
BY SARAH REES
A Vintage Classic
continues to rediscover the jewels of what
he considers “home.”
With his knowledge of and passion for
this tourist magnet, Simon was an obvious
choice as author of the Tuttle Travel Pack
Guide to Hong Kong, and his contributions
enhance an impressive little book that
would serve as a valuable companion to
anyone heading off to Hong Kong for the
first, second, or fifty-seventh time.
I
n this era of cheap, easy travel, tourists
fall over themselves to visit the latest
hot city or exclusive island paradise,
seeking the up-and-coming locations in a
bid to out-run the spread of commercial
tourism. And yet, amid this rush for new
and undiscovered, few travellers can resist
those perennial favourites, those vintage
classics that always pull you back time and
time again.
Hong Kong is one such evergreen
destination, and despite having been
on the tourist radar for many years, this
thriving city continues to attract a rising
number of camera-wielders each year.
According to the latest statistics from the
Hong Kong Tourism Board, tourist arrivals
in 2011 were a record high of 42 million,
and all indicators pointed to an even better
year in 2012.
For Simon Oestheimer, a British passportholding journalist who is responsible
for a new travel guide to the island, the
infatuation is easy to understand. “I think
people keep coming back because it’s
always changing,” he says. “The second
time you visit it can look completely
different from the first.” Simon himself
is a case in point: he lived in Hong Kong
for the first 18 years of his life and yet
Presented in an easy-to-read format,
the book divides the sights of Hong
Kong into sections that make quite a lot
of detailed information easy to digest.
History, practicalities, “must-see” sights,
and districts are all documented, before
Simon steps in to offer his own personal
suggestions and recommendations for
where to go, what to eat, and where to
stay on what he describes in his foreword
as a “city always on the move.”
It is also, like so many Asian capitals, a
place of contrasts, from luxurious malls and
hotels to dizzying back alleys packed with
noodle shops and dim sum houses. There is
even, in Simon’s words, a “wild side most
tourists don’t anticipate. More than 40%
of Hong Kong is protected country park,
and you can be from the city street to the
hiking trail within half an hour.”
Simon offers his own tips on places to find
the wilderness and is dutiful in highlighting
the sheer range of sights and sounds that
can be experienced in Hong Kong, which is
a bonus both for first-timers and for those
returning and wanting to find something
new. With the Tuttle Travel Pack in hand,
tourists can escape the city for a hike in
the historical and naturally splendid Po Toi,
or hunt down the egg tarts that the last
Governor of Hong Kong loved so much
they named them after him.
To aid with the exploration of this
intriguing city, a pull-out map comes
tucked into the back of the guide, and
up-to-date travel information and opening
times, etc., will make a huge difference to
those who are reacquainting themselves
with a holiday destination they may have
visited before.
For Simon, writing the guide offered
an opportunity to revisit his adopted
homeland – he currently resides in
Thailand and runs The Phuket News –
and rediscover the place he knows well.
“It gave me the chance to rediscover
things I had forgotten,” he explains. The
research process also reminded him of
just why Hong Kong got under his skin.
“It’s fascinating, infuriating, indescribable,
and overwhelming all at the same time,”
he says in his foreword. “It makes you
nostalgic for the past but excited about the
future. It’s a city you’ll never forget.”
If you haven’t experienced it, now is the
time. If you have, perhaps it is time to
head back and remind yourself just why
you can’t forget Hong Kong.
Tuttle Travel Pack: Hong Kong is
published by Tuttle Publishing
and is available in all leading
bookshops at a price of RM44.
For information on the range
of other travel guides printed
by the company, visit
www.tuttlepublishing.com.
THE EXPAT 47
ASEAN IS A GEOGRAPHIC,
POLITICAL, AND ECONOMIC
ASSOCIATION FORMED OF TEN
COUNTRIES IN SOUTHEAST ASIA.
JOIN THE EXPAT TEAM AS, OVER
THE COURSE OF 2013, WE TAKE
YOU AROUND THIS MAGNIFICENT
AND DIVERSE REGION.
T
he decade of the1960s was a tumultuous time throughout
much of the world, and the region of southeast Asia was
no exception. Singapore had just been brought into the
country of Malaya in 1963, along with Sabah and Sarawak, only to
be unceremoniously expelled just two years later. Cambodia was
being roiled by social and political upheaval that culminated in the
deadly rise of the Khmer Rouge in the 70s. Vietnam was in the throes
of a deadly conflict that spread beyond its own borders to Laos and
Cambodia, as well. Malaysia was dealing with race riots and a yearslong effort to quell a communist insurgency that had been defeated
in 1960, but was renewed in 1967. In Burma, control of the nation
was seized by the military in 1962 in a coup d’état, and protests
and demonstrations broke out across the country,
many ending in violent suppression. Indonesia
found itself embroiled in a protracted confrontation
with the newly formed nation of Malaysia and
was experiencing widening social divisions and
political strife, highlighted and by the ouster
of the country’s first president. Tough times
in Indonesia were further punctuated by a
spectacular natural disaster on the island of Bali
with a massive volcanic eruption in 1963 that
killed thousands. It was a difficult period across
the whole of the region, to put it mildly.
It was against this turbulent backdrop that ASEAN,
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, was
formed in 1967. Originally bringing together five countries,
ASEAN comprised Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand,
and the Philippines. Since that time, the membership has expanded
to include neighbouring countries Laos, Vietnam, Burma (Myanmar),
Cambodia, and Brunei. The association was formed with the goals
of driving economic growth, developing and sharing cultures among
its member nations, promoting peace and security throughout the
region, and providing a platform for discussion and problem-solving
when disagreements arise. Nearly a half century on, ASEAN remains a
remarkably stable and beneficial association.
As expats in Malaysia, we’re living right in the middle of a dynamic
and culturally rich region that is finding itself increasingly important
on the global stage. As we rush headlong into the new year, we’d
like to introduce these amazing lands to you one by one. Many of
you have no doubt travelled to numerous ASEAN locations and
maybe even have some personal favourites. We’ll spend the next
ten months profiling a nation at a time, touching on history, people,
travel and tourism opportunities, and the outlook for the future.
First up is the neighbour with whom Malaysia shares the closest (if not
always the friendliest) historical ties, Singapore, the Lion City.
THE EXPAT 49
SINGAPORE
Size: 710 km2 (World rank: 189th)
Population: 5.3 million (2012)
Government: Parliamentary
constitutional republic
Official languages: English,
Chinese, Malay, Tamil
GDP PPP*: $59,711
(World rank: 3rd)
HDI**: 0.886, very high
(World rank: 26th)
Currency: Singapore dollar
(1SGD = 2.45MYR)
Notable facts:
The country of Singapore consists
of 63 islands in total.
Nearly half of Singapore’s
population is foreign-born.
With its expulsion from
Malaysia in 1965, Singapore is
the only nation to have had its
independence effectively forced
upon it.
Because of ongoing reclamation
efforts, Singapore’s land area has
increased by over 20% since the
1960s.
SINGAPORE
Dream Themes
MUCH VISITED AND ENDLESSLY LOVED,
DAVID BOWDEN DETAILS THE MANY ADVENTURES
ON OFFER JUST A SHORT HOP ACROSS THE BORDER
IN SINGAPORE, WHERE HISTORY IS CELEBRATED AND
MODERNITY IS CONSTANTLY PUSHING ONWARDS.
I
n less than 200 years Singapore has
gone from a small tropical island
covered in forests and with few
inhabitants to one of the world’s most
densely populated places with one of the
highest living standards. While there are
many parts of Singapore that retain links
to the past, other precincts offer tourists a
very cosmopolitan experience.
Tourism has always been, and remains, one
of the main reasons for people to travel
to Singapore. Tourists come for many
reasons, and while shopping is important
for many, there is an increasing range of
other options.
The island’s historic Merlion landmark
has recently been rejuvenated and
reinvigorated and, in recent years, there
has been a conscious effort to create
tourism products, events, and activities
to ensure there is always a new reason to
return to the island state.
INTEGRATED ADVENTURE
Singapore’s tourism profile changed
dramatically with the opening, a few
years back, of its two integrated resorts:
Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay
Sands. Their primary purpose is tourism
and leisure, especially at Resorts World
(www.rwsentosa.com) which includes
the region’s first Universal Studios theme
park. Visitors come to chance their hand
at the tables as well as for entertainment
and lifestyle opportunities ranging from
luxurious accommodation to theme parks
and everything in between, making both
these places one-stop holiday destinations.
Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island
is home to attractions such as Universal
Studios Singapore, Marine Life Park,
Maritime Experiential Museum
and Aquarium, FestiveWalk,
restaurants,
and shops.
Visitors can relive Hollywood blockbusters
in the seven zones of fun in Asia’s first
Universal Studios theme park including
Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient
Egypt, Lost World, Far Far Away, and
Madagascar.
Marine Life Park, the world’s largest
oceanarium, is also located within the
complex. With 100,000 marine organisms
living inside, it provides an interactive and
multi-sensory marine experience. Rides
including the 620m Adventure River as
well as slides and wave pools.
The Maritime Experiential Museum and
Aquarium is a showcase for the maritime
trade between the East and West, with
specific attention being given to the
pioneer Chinese trader Admiral Zheng He
and his replica treasure ship the Bao Chuan.
LIVING CULTURE
Beyond the malls and integrated resorts,
culture is alive and well in Singapore.
The National Museum of Singapore
(www.nationalmuseum.sg) is Singapore’s
biggest museum and its recent extension
of glass and metal provides a revitalised
and interactive appearance to the grand
colonial building.
The older part of the museum, located at
93 Stamford Road, is a landmark structure
topped by a dramatic stained glass dome.
It was previously the Raffles Museum
and Library, and was well known for its
substantive collections of natural history,
ethnology, and archaeology.
In addition to its impressive collection
of natural history drawings, there are
permanent living galleries on Singapore’s
history, film, food, photography, and
fashion. It is also the custodian of
Singapore’s eleven National Treasures
which includes the Singapore Stone
that dates back to the 13th century. The
museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm,
with the Living Galleries open until 8pm.
Singapore Art Museum (www.
singaporeartmuseum.sg) at 71 Bras Basah
Road is the nation’s leading art gallery. It
is located in a former Classic-style boys
school and is now a showcase for the
region’s leading contemporary art. Several
large courtyards within the building are
used to house installations and sculptures.
The museum is open daily from 10am to
7pm (Fridays 10am to 9pm).
GARDEN CITY
Despite being one of the most densely
populated parts of the world, Singapore
manages to retain a close contact with
its natural surroundings. While much of
Singapore’s natural components are manmade (landscaped parks and gardens),
it manages to retain a clean and green
image. One of the best examples of this is
the Botanic Gardens, but there are several
other impressive, large reserves such as
Bukit Timah Reserve and Sungei Buloh
Wetland Reserve.
Visitors don’t have to travel far to
appreciate all things natural with the
recently opened Gardens by the Bay,
an ambitious development aimed at
transforming Singapore into a City in
a Garden. This mammoth undertaking
has been championed by the National
Parks Board and occupies 101ha of prime
downtown waterfront land. It includes
three distinctive waterfront gardens –
Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central.
Bay Central has a 3km long waterfront
promenade that links the other two
gardens, while the 32ha Bay East area
includes food gardens, a watersports
arena, water gardens, and “edutainment”
areas that detail the story of water in
nature.
Bay South is the largest garden at 54ha.
It includes the massive Conservatory
Complex, which comprises two
glasshouses showcasing plants from
Mediterranean-type climatic regions and
tropical mountains, 18 Supertrees
(tree-like, vertical gardens of nine to
sixteen storeys high), an aerial walkway,
a treetop bistro, and several horticultural
themed gardens.
Just as in Malaysia, food is an essential
component of Singaporean lifestyle and
there are many exciting and innovative
F&B concepts, even in Gardens by the Bay.
Visitors can dine up in Supertrees Dining
that includes eateries such as: Peach
Garden Noodle House, Texas Chicken, Hill
Street Café Shop, Casa Verde, and Canelé
Pâtisserie Chocolaterie. In other parts of
the gardens there is Café Crema, Seventh
Heaven (with 30 ice cream flavours) and
Pollen, a Mediterranean-inspired modern
European restaurant.
David Bowden is the author of a new book
entitled Enchanting Singapore (published
by John Beaufoy Publishing of the United
Kingdom). This 80 page book is full of the
latest information and illustrated with lots
of photographs. It is available in all good
bookshops.
THE EXPAT 51
Now and Then
KNOWLEDGE OF SINGAPORE’S BEGINNINGS AND RISE A LITTLE
HAZY IN YOUR MIND? LET MANVEEN MANN PROVIDE A
QUICK LIFE STORY OF THIS POWERHOUSE CITY-STATE.
O
fficially known as the Republic of
Singapore, this Southeast Asian
city-state lies off the southern tip
of the Malay Peninsula, 137 km north of
the equator. The island nation is separated
from Malaysia by the Straits of Johor
to its north and from Indonesia by the
Singapore Strait to its south. Despite its
small size, Singapore is a highly urbanised
area and well-known for its jaw-dropping
skyscrapers, flash shopping malls, beautiful
scenery, and delectable cuisine.
Legend has it that a 14th century
Sumatran prince spotted an animal (most
likely a Malayan tiger) upon landing on
the island after a thunderstorm, and
thus the name Singapore stems from
the Malay words singa (meaning lion)
and pura (meaning city). Prior to the
European settlement, the island was
the site of a Malay fishing village and
inhabited by several hundred indigenous
Orang Laut people.
SWAMP TO NATION
While it may now be one of the world’s
most prosperous countries and certainly
stands head and shoulders above its
Asian counterparts in terms of economy,
Singapore took its first steps into the
modern world as a British trading colony
in 1819. The then Lieutenant-Governor
of Bencoolen (now Bengkulu) in Sumatra,
Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, recognised
the immense potential of the-then swamp
covered island and helped negotiate a
treaty with the local rulers to establish
Singapore as a trading station. Soon,
the island’s policy of free trade attracted
merchants from all over Asia as well as
from as distant as the US and the/
Middle East.
In 1832, Singapore became the centre of
government for the Straits Settlements
of Penang, Malacca, and Singapore.
With the introduction of the telegraph
and steamship, Singapore’s position as a
centre of the expanding trade between
the East and West increased tremendously.
By 1860, the flourishing country had a
population that had grown from a mere
150 in 1819 to a whopping 80,792.
However the peace and prosperity of the
country was not to survive unhindered.
During World War II, Singapore suffered
a huge blow by being attacked by
the Japanese. Once regarded as an
impenetrable fortress, the city fell under
Japanese control in 1942, and remained
occupied for the next three and half years
– a time marked by great oppression and
an immense loss of life.
In 1959, the growth of nationalism led
to self-government and the country’s
first general election. The People’s Action
Party (PAP) won a majority of 43 seats
and Lee Kuan Yew became the first
prime minister of Singapore. In 1963,
Singapore merged with the Federation
of Malaya, Sarawak, and North Borneo
to form Malaysia, but the merger proved
ineffective and less than two years later,
on 9 August 1965, Singapore left Malaysia
to become an independent and sovereign
democratic nation. December of that same
year saw Singapore finally becoming an
independent republic.
MONEY TALKS
Since independence, Singapore has seen
a massive increase in wealth and has
cemented its place in the international
arena as a formidable economic
development. As one of the world’s
fourth leading financial centres, its port
is one of the five busiest in the world in
terms of tonnage handled – an impressive
achievement for the second smallest
country in Asia.
Boasting a remarkable 92.5% literacy
rate, Singapore enjoys a highly developed
and successful free-market economy. It is
also commended for the remarkably open
and corruption-free environment, stable
prices, and a per capita GDP higher than
that of most developed countries and,
consequently, is regarded as one of the
world’s most prosperous countries, with
strong international trading links and a
per capita GDP equal to that of leading
Western European nations.
The Singaporean economy is heavily
dependent on exports, particularly
in consumer electronics, information
technology products, pharmaceuticals,
and on a growing financial services sector.
The country has also attracted major
investments in pharmaceuticals and
medical technology production as well as
the property market.
casino at Marina Bay Sands (although
Singaporean citizens are required to pay
a casino entry levy of SG$100 a day) and
lowering tax rates – the latter a move
that clearly worked given that Singapore
now holds the highest concentration of
millionaires in the world, most notably
Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin,
who has lived there since 2009.
SG$2000 to SG$15000 a night, and of
course, strict door policies. Fashionable
clubs include the elite Pangaea, the
dizzyingly-high KU DE TA, international
DJ hotspot Avalon, and a collection of
nightspots in Clarke Quay, all of which
have catapulted Singapore into serious
contender status in the “luxe nightlife”
category.
Besides being touted as a shopping haven
due to its plethora of designer-goods
stacked malls, Singapore is also heating up
the fine dining scene. The past year has
seen two restaurants making the World’s
50 Best Restaurants list, as well as two
more emerging in the top 100. On top of
that, a host of world famous chefs have
recently opened restaurants, including
Australia’s Tetsuya Wakuda (Waku Ghin
opened in 2010), Wolfgang Puck (his
steakhouse CUT is considered one of the
finest in the US), Daniel Boulud (DB Bistro
Moderne), and Guy Savoy (Guy Savoy).
With all these perks, it is no wonder that
Singapore has attracted international
property investors like moths to a flame
in recent years. Supporting the view that
the region is on the property market rise,
research houses ranked Singapore as
one of the five cities (including Jakarta,
Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok)
topping the Asian Investment Prospects list
for 2013.
Rounding up the list of playgrounds for
the well-heeled are the flash nightspots
now synonymous with Singapore’s party
scene. Housing some of the world’s
most exclusive clubs, these spaces often
feature decadence in detail: 1000-yearold Saur tree tops, animal skinned sofas,
reservations for tables ranging from
Today, Singapore continues to cleverly
manoeuvre its way in the world of
international trade, business, and
entertainment. A significant part of its
success is owed to its government’s proindustrialisation policies and excellenceoriented, multi-ethnic people. It comes
as no surprise then the country continues
to establish itself as Southeast Asia’s
financial and high-tech hub, with lifestyle
and fashion fast becoming a part of its
national repertoire.
Socially, Singapore has relatively good
relations with its neighbours,
albeit with a “friendly” rivalry with
Malaysia. Disputes over freshwater
delivery to Singapore, extensive land
reclamation works, bridge construction,
and a debate on the maritime boundaries
between Johor and Singapore Straits
are a few examples of the somewhat
contentious issues the two countries have
dealt with in the past, but in general the
two neighbours are tolerant.
MODERN LIFESTYLE
Possibly due to its colonial roots, Singapore
has also developed a reputation of being
quite a conservative nation. In a bid to
boost tourism, the country has tried to
shed the conventional image that has long
been associated with its heritage, and
strategies include opening up gambling to
the wider community via the plush new
THE EXPAT 53
travel ...
Christmas Every Day
FEELING CRABBY? JOIN EDITOR CHAD MERCHANT AS HE EXPLORES THE
AUSTRALIAN TERRITORY OF CHRISTMAS ISLAND, MEETS THE ISLAND’S MOST
FAMED RESIDENT, THE RED CRAB, AND DISCOVERS WHY THIS ISOLATED ISLAND
IN THE INDIAN OCEAN IS KNOWN AS A NATURAL WONDERLAND.
Red Crabs by Diane Masters
Crystal-clear waters of Flying Fish Cove
T
hough its closest neighbour is
the Indonesian island of Java,
some 500km to the north, and
though the character of the multicultural
community is more akin to Malaysia
than anything, Christmas Island is indeed
an Australian territory. Most Malaysian
residents are unaware that they can be in
Australia on the easy wings of a 2.5-hour
flight from Kuala Lumpur, yet thanks to
a weekly charter flight from Malaysia
Airlines, it’s true.
One of the great draws of living in
Malaysia is its location in the region, which
is further served by a comprehensive
network of air routes. We are indeed
fortunate because the small Indian Ocean
patch of land called Christmas Island is
also easily accessible from KL, the only
city outside of mainland Australia to offer
air service to this remarkable and unique
destination.
If you’re seeking a party island, or want
the quintessential white-sand tropical isle,
Christmas Island is not the ideal port of
call. However, for divers, photographers,
nature lovers, and people who simply need
to unwind and relax, Christmas Island is
perhaps unequalled in the region. This
island, with roughly half the land area
of the city of KL, is merely the tip of an
iceless iceberg, the above-water portion of
a massive submarine volcanic mountain.
The volcano is long since extinct, but what
remains is a parcel of land that, owing
to its geographic isolation and a long
existence free from human disturbance,
possesses a substantial number of unique
Robber crabs
species of plants and animals and offers an
equally unique travel experience.
not always what you expect to find
on a remote island, but very much the
case here. Following the defeat of the
Japanese, who occupied this island during
WWII, the island was under Singaporean
auspices as part of the UK Straits
Settlement. In 1957, Australia petitioned
the UK for transfer of sovereignty and
paid £2.9 million to Singapore as part
of the agreement, and in 1958, the first
official representative of the Australian
government arrived on the island, and
with that, Christmas Island officially
became an Australian territory.
FROM DISCOVERY TO DEVELOPMENT
Now, that’s not to say the island is pristine
and undeveloped. Far from it, actually. As
our Malaysia Airlines 737 dipped down
on its descent to the Christmas Island, I
was quite surprised to see how developed
the infrastructure actually was on this
remote island. Though Christmas Island
was discovered (and thusly named) on
Christmas Day in 1643, it wasn’t until
some 45 years later that seafarers were
able to successfully land on the island
and start exploring it. Fast-forward two
Today, the island economy is largely
centuries or so to the time when vast
dependent upon phosphate mining and a
reserves of phosphate were discovered
busy detention centre, the latter of which
on the island. With this finding, the
may lead people to incorrectly
settlement and development of the
island became
financially
feasible, and
thus it was made
so, and it is this
mining activity
that not only
gave a foundation
to the island’s
economy, it
directly contributed
to the quality of
the infrastructure
that is still in place
today. Quality roads
and pathways, hot
and cold running
water, reliable
yke
electrical service,
y by Inger Vand
Red-Footed Boob
proper sewerage…
THE EXPAT 55
Crinoidson Bommie by Mathieu Meur
think that a penal colony exists on the
island. Actually, it’s simply a “holding
facility” for refugees and their families
who are seeking approval to live in
Australia. While they are being processed,
they are detained on a small part of the
island, under a programme administered
by Aussie immigration services. Most
tourists to the island will never see any
evidence of this centre as it’s many
kilometres from the main tourist areas.
Nevertheless, the refugees are permitted –
with supervision – to mix and mingle with
the island’s small resident population at
events and such. As the island’s primary
workers were drawn largely from Straits
cities such as George Town and Melaka,
there is a distinct feel of Malaysia on
Christmas Island. There are communities
of Chinese and Malay settlers, as well as
European/Aussie residents. As in Malaysia,
the closely connected islanders respect
the religions and traditions of others and,
of course, enjoy each other’s holidays and
festivals. Quite unlike Malaysia, however,
they all seem to know each other, too!
With only about 1,400 full-time residents
on the island, it’s a tight-knit community,
and there’s a genuine warmth among the
people and their love for their little island
is evident from even a short chat with any
of them.
LAND, SEA, AND AIR:
A NATURAL WONDER
Christmas Island is, of course, famous
for its annual migration of Red Crabs,
an endemic crab species on the island.
Every year, millions of the bright red crabs
make their way from the jungles to the
sea as part of their mating ritual. If you
time your visit right,
you’ll see these crabs
by the thousands in
one of nature’s most
impressive mass
migration spectacles.
Some 50 million
of these crabs are
estimated to live on
Christmas Island.
Perhaps even more
impressive is the
world’s largest
population of the
Crab Barriers by Ma
x Orchard
coconut crab,
more commonly
called the robber crab. This crab
is the largest terrestrial arthropod in the
speck of land in the vast Indian Ocean
world, and about a million are thought to
is a haven for many wings. With nearly
live on the island. They live mostly in the
two-thirds of the entire island set aside as
forested areas of the island and can be
an Australian National Park, all these birds
the size of a football. They are prodigious
have a great deal of room to spread their
climbers and can be incredibly determined
wings with no human interference.
and resourceful when trying to get to
something they fancy, hence
their “robber” reputation.
Christmas Island’s natural
wonders aren’t limited to
land animals, either, not by
a long stretch. Bird lovers
will find their Nirvana here,
as freewheeling frigatebirds,
red-footed boobies, and the
stunning endemic golden
boson are all frequent sights.
Over 80,000 seabirds nest
here annually, and with no
land at all south of Christmas
Island until one reaches the
Antarctic continent, this lone
Juvenile Whale Shark
by Gunter Noack
GETTING THERE:
Weekly chartered flights are available via
Malaysia Airlines. This is the only direct flight
to Christmas Island from Asia and takes 2
hours 35 minutes. For more information, or
to book a flight or holiday package, contact
the professionals at KRIS International
Traveltours in Bangsar on +603.2282 2580, or
their website at www.krisinternational.com.
Christmas Island’s Blowholes
Divers and snorkelers will be captivated by
the undersea world here. The waters are
breathtakingly clear and pollution-free,
generally hovering around 27°C yearround. Not far from the rocky limestone
shores of Christmas Island, the seafloor
drops 500m in short order, then plunges
even more precipitously into the depths
of the Java Trench, the deepest part of
the Indian Ocean. This dramatic shift of
the underwater landscape lends itself
to spectacular biodiversity, from vast
spreads of stunning coral reefs with their
attendant hordes of colourful reef fishes,
sponges, and crustaceans to the open
ocean, patrolled by pelagic fishes such as
tuna, barracuda, and trevallies. Sport fishes
including marlins and swordfishes are also
present, as is the majestic whale shark, the
largest fish in the world. At the right time
of the year here, divers will usually have
an outstanding chance to encounter these
magnificent, gentle sea giants.
It must be said that the focus on Christmas
Island has only recently turned to tourism,
but they seem to understand that the
phosphate reserves here will not last
forever and that sustainable tourism is
a critical part of the island’s future. The
unique nature of Christmas Island offers
much, particularly to the ecotourism
market, and for anyone with a zeal for
nature and a sense of adventure, this is a
destination that offers a host of memorable
experiences; indeed, some of which cannot
be replicated in any other location. Enjoy
the crab migration, be mesmerised by
the seabirds, take to the greens to enjoy
a round of golf on the island’s gorgeous
seaside course, visit the blowholes – one
of my favourite natural spectacles – on the
island’s coast, enjoy a drink with the locals,
and just slow down. Christmas Island gives
the city dweller a welcome tonic for stress
and offers an enjoyable holiday experience
for those willing to take the plunge.
IMMIGRATION:
Customs and immigration responsibilities
are handled by Australia. A visa is required
(Electronic Travel Authority) unless you hold a
New Zealand passport. Some nationalities may
apply for this visa online at www.immi.gov.au/e_
visa/visitors.htm. Christmas Island takes customs
and quarantine very seriously, so be mindful
of this. The island’s ecosystem is delicate and
isolated, so they’re keen to keep it healthy and
natural. Don’t bring any seeds, fruits, animal
products, etc.
INFORMATION:
Christmas Island is one hour behind KL time
(GMT +7). As an Australian territory, driving is
on the left, and cars, 4WDs, and scooters are
available for hire. Care must be taken, as crabs
often cross the road, and fines for wilfully or
negligibly running them over are substantial.
Voltage is 220v and the plugs are
Aussie-style, with angled blades,
so bring an adapter.
As an isolated island over 2,500km from the
Australian mainland, goods and services are
relatively expensive, but not prohibitively so. It is
hoped with the island’s evolving shift to tourism,
that competition and economies of scale will
bring costs down. Look for package deals to get
the best value.
Currency is the Australian dollar (AUD).
Malaysian Ringgit are not accepted and there
are no moneychanging facilities on the island, so
change your currency before you come. Credit
cards are widely accepted and there are a couple
of ATMs around, though it’s probably safer to
have your cash sorted ahead of time.
Experienced, knowledgeable local guides are
available for hire and are highly recommended.
A wonderful visitors’ centre is maintained on
the island by the Christmas Island Tourism
Association and the friendly staff can assist with
everything from arranging a visit to planning
and booking activities once you’ve arrived. Visit
their website at www.christmas.net.au.
Christmas Island Frigatebird
THE EXPAT 57
Expat |irlines and travel
News
TAP WINS “BEST AIRLINE” AND
“WORLD’S LEADING AIRLINE”
The Portuguese Airline TAP is the Best
Airline in Europe, according to US magazine
Global Traveler, and was honoured with the
respective award in Los Angeles recently.
This award – one of the most important in
the travel and tourism industry – recognizes
TAP’s prestige and international reputation.
The title Best Airline in Europe awarded by
the US magazine Global Traveler comes as
a result of a survey of more than 25,000
registered votes made by the magazine’s
readers.
At virtually the same time, TAP was voted
World’s Leading Airline to South America
during the grand finale of the World Travel
Awards, which are considered the Oscars of
world tourism. These awards highlight the
world’s best brands in travel and tourism
and are the result of a vote among industry
professionals.
Airlines, Ahmad Jauhari Yahya and Filippo
Bagnato, CEO of ATR in the presence of
Ignatius Ong, CEO of Firefly and Dato’
Captain Mohd Nawawi Awang, CEO of
MASWings.
The chief designer of the aircraft cabin is
the renowned Italian designer, Giugiaro,
whose work is seen in many luxury
supercars such as the Lamborghini and
Maserati.
Currently, Firefly operates with 12 ATR
72-500 while MASwings operates 10
similar aircraft. The additional enhanced
series of ATR 72-600s is expected to arrive
gradually from the end of June next year to
complement the demand of Firefly’s services
and support the network expansion plans
of MASWings.
To book flights, visit www.
malaysiaairlines.com or www.fireflyz.
com.my.
This codeshare will make travel within the
Gulf region easier, effectively extending
Oman Air’s network.”
Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said:
“Qatar Airways is pleased to partner
with Oman Air to provide passengers
with extensive choice and flexibility when
planning their travel schedules.”
The codeshare agreement is effective
immediately, and customers can now
book flights through local outlets or by
visiting www.omanair.com.
ETIHAD IS WORLD’S LEADING
AIRLINE... AGAIN
For the fourth consecutive year, Etihad
Airways has won the World’s Leading
Airline and World’s Leading Airline First
Class awards at the World Travel Awards
Grand Final 2012.
To book flights with TAP, visit
www.flytap.com.
Known in the trade as the Oscars of the
travel industry, the World Travel Awards
is one of the most prestigious travel trade
awards and thus top prizes are highly
sought-after by airlines. In 2012 alone,
nearly 650,000 votes were cast by travel
professionals and consumers from 191
countries to choose the industry’s best.
FIREFLY EXPANDS ITS FLEET
Malaysia Airlines and ATR, the FrenchItalian aircraft manufacturer, inked a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
recently for the purchase of 36 brand new
ATR 72-600 aircraft worth RM3 billion.
Of the 36 ordered, Firefly will take on 20
new aircraft, whilst 16 will be inducted into
the fleet of its sister company MASwings.
This significant deal is part of the expansion
plan for Firefly and MASWings, both wholly
owned subsidiaries of Malaysia Airlines, and
was signed by the Group CEO of Malaysia
OMAN AIR AND QATAR
AIRWAYS ON CODESHARE
To book flights, visit www.etihad.
airways.com.
Oman Air and Qatar Airways have
announced a codeshare agreement,
allowing Oman Air’s customers to book
flights from any of the 42 departure
points within its network to Doha, the
capital of Qatar.
Announcing the codeshare, Wayne Pearce,
Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air,
said: “We are delighted to be joining with
Qatar Airways to offer even greater choice,
value, and convenience for our customers.
MALAYSIA AIRLINES
CELEBRATES 40 YEARS
Malaysia Airlines recently revealed one of its
aircraft with the original livery, first featured
on 1 October 1972, to commemorate 40
Flying Tips
years of Malaysian Hospitality delivery to
air travellers.
One Malaysia Airlines’ Boeing 737-800 was
repainted in the full colours of the first MAS
aircraft to take to the skies four decades
ago. Named the “Retro Livery,” the aircraft
was revealed at a special function at KL
International Airport (KLIA).
The original livery has the logo featuring
the Kelantan wau bulan, or moon kite, in
a red circle, representing controlled flight
and also a fine expression of the many
mythologies associated with Malaysia. To
complement the logo, the national carrier
sported the colours of the Jalur Gemilang
on the aircraft and red, the dominant
colour, was used for the two stripes across
the body as in the flag. Blue was used for
the words of the airline’s name, with white
for the background.
The “Retro Livery” aircraft started its flight
on 13 December and travelled to Jakarta
and Bangkok, two popular Malaysia Airlines
destinations.
To book flights, visit
www.malaysiaairlines.com.
consist of two Boeing 767-300ER aircraft to
operate transatlantic flights in a two-cabin
configuration, offering a selection of Rouge
Plus seats with additional legroom, and
Premium Rouge seats featuring additional
seating comfort, space, and an enhanced
meal and beverage service. There will also
be two Airbus A319 aircraft to operate
North American flights in an all-economy
configuration. These four aircraft will be
released from Air Canada’s existing fleet to
Air Canada Rouge as the mainline carrier
takes delivery of two new Boeing 777300ER aircraft in 2013, as announced on
1 October last year.
Read more or book flights at
www.aircanada.com.
AIRASIA CEASES KOTA
KINABALU-CLARK ROUTE
AirAsia has withdrawn its seven times per
week Kota Kinabalu-Clark route as of 1
February 2013. The withdrawal is due to
commercial reasons, according to a news
release on the website.
AIR CANADA’S NEW LEISURE
AIRLINE
Those who have outstanding bookings
on this route will be offered options to
mitigate the inconvenience caused as a
result of the route withdrawals. Travellers
will be contacted by AirAsia customer
service personnel to inform them about
the suspension and explain the options
available.
Air Canada has unveiled its new leisure
airline, Air Canada Rouge, marking a
milestone in the transformation of Canada’s
flag carrier to compete in the growing
leisure travel sector.
The route suspension is to enable the group
to realign its business plan and strengthen
its operations to focus on markets where it
can build a leadership position this year.
“With the introduction today of Air
Canada Rouge, Air Canada enters today’s
growing leisure travel market on a truly
competitive basis,” said Ben Smith, Air
Canada’s Executive Vice President and Chief
Commercial Officer, at the launch event.
The Air Canada Rouge fleet will initially
To book flights with AirAsia, visit
www.airasia.com.
For more expat airline news,
up-to-date offers or some tempting
travel destinations, check out
www.expatgomalaysia.com/travel.
It’s only the beginning of the year and
work is already piling up on your desk
thanks to your long Christmas/New
Year break. This can only mean one
thing: it’s time to beat the stress with a
short weekend trip. For a quick break
to escape the back-to-work blues, here
are four suggestions.
PENANG
Indulge in good food, shop ‘till you
drop, and take in a little culture on
your weekend trip to Penang. This
island is beloved my tourists, expats,
and locals thanks to the abundance
of yummy foods (the hawker stalls are
famous!) and the many interesting
places to visit. New cafes, galleries,
restaurants, and hotels are popping up
all the time in historic George Town, so
you can never go back often enough!
LANGKAWI
A weekend in Langkawi is perfect if all
you want to do is lie on the beach with
a good book while munching on some
duty-free chocolates and drinking
some duty-free wine. When boredom
kicks in, participate in one of the many
beach activities or go shopping in Kuah
town for cheap souvenirs.
MELAKA
Visit Malaysia’s historical city during
the day and visit some of the many
tourist spots such as the old fort, the
museums, the butterfly park, the toy
museum, and the zoo. Come nightfall,
visit Jonker Street and shop for unique
and extremely cheap clothes, shoes,
souvenirs, and some antiques. Jonker
Street is also well-known for its street
food, so make sure you indulge and
pick up some gula Melaka to bring
back with you.
JOHOR BAHRU
This small but bustling town is
currently on everyone’s list for two
things: Legoland Malaysia and the
Johor Premium Outlet. Keep the
children happy by taking them on
all their favourite rides at Legoland
Malaysia, then get some retail therapy
at the Premium Outlets. You will also
be just a short hop from Singapore, so
why not make a week of it and head
over the border, too?
THE EXPAT 59
travel ...
Plane Pampering
AS BILL COOPER FOUND, TRAVELLING WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN
AFTER A TRIP IN BUSINESS CLASS ON MALAYSIA AIRLINES’ NEW A380.
A
s a wonderful two weeks at home
with my family came to an end and
I was due back in Malaysia to begin
work again, I reached London’s bustling
Heathrow airport for my return flight
with a heavy heart; it’s never easy saying
goodbye to your loved ones. I was booked
to fly with Malaysia Airlines on their new
A380, and as it was to be my first time on
the large aircraft, I was intrigued to see
what all the fuss was about. Plus, I was
seated in Business Class, which helped to
perk me up a little after the sad goodbyes.
Once check in and security had been
dispensed with, I made a beeline for
the new MAS Business Lounge and was
greeted by a Malaysian attendant wearing
a welcoming smile, who waved me in
to a relaxing lounge area where I could
enjoy a calm wait for my flight. Outside
the window I could admire the new,
beautiful A380 in all its splendour as I
perused the lounge food menu – a good
range of Western and Malaysian delights
were tempting, but I vowed to wait for my
inflight meal.
An hour later, the staff politely informed
me that my flight was ready for boarding
and off I went. From the moment I stepped
onto the plane, I felt I had stepped into
a comfort zone: a member of the inflight
staff was waiting to personally escort me
to my comfortable Business Class seat,
show me where my bag could be stowed,
and present me with a refreshing glass of
chilled juice.
The Business Class seats on the MAS A380
are amazingly comfortable and the cabin is
arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration, allowing
for more space and privacy for each
passenger. Each seat turns into a fully flat
bed with a pitch of 72 inches (183cm), and
ensures a sound sleep to anyone travelling
a long distance. It was music to my ears!
We left Heathrow airport right on time,
and after a smooth take-off, I listened out
for the usual rumbling of the engine and
heard nothing. For such a sizeable plane,
the A380 purrs along with surprising quiet,
lulling me into a state of comfort that
allowed me to almost forget I was onboard
a plane at all.
Not long after take-off, the smartly dressed
MAS staff came around with the best
tasting Malaysian satay that I have ever
tried, which was a welcome surprise after
too many bland airline meals over the
years. Chicken and beef skewers, handgrilled to perfection, appeared before me
to whet the appetite while I perused the
dinner menu and tried to decide on my
order. Beef fillet, honey glazed chicken
breast, fried black peppered cod, and
local Malaysian delights were all on offer; I
began to wonder if there was a Michelinstarred chef onboard the flight as well!
The drinks list was equally impressive, and
lovers of the fine taste of a good whiskey
or wine will find plenty within the selection
of alcoholic beverages available to get
excited about. Personally, I am more of a
coffee buff, and I was suitably impressed
to see that MAS offered my favourite
Ethiopian Yirgacheffe and Brazilian Santo.
A good cup of perfectly brewed coffee was
the best way to end my sumptuous meal.
After my feast, I took a look at the inflight
entertainment system to help me switch off. I was impressed to
discover that MAS offered all the latest movies and a wide range of
TV shows as well as music albums, games, and even an interactive
map that plotted the plane’s progress across the world. There was
plenty to keep me entertained until tiredness forced me to shut off
the screen and transform my seat into a bed.
What a difference a horizontal sleep makes! I woke a few hours later
feeling fresh and energetic, very grateful to have had the chance of
a proper rest on my journey back to Malaysia. The breakfast menu
came around swiftly after I awoke, and the blueberry pancakes I
ordered were as tasty as dinner had been. Fruity pancakes topped
with grilled pineapple and a drizzle of maple syrup – what a way to
start the day!
With a post-breakfast coffee in hand, I dipped back into the movie
selection and, for the first time ever during my many years of
travelling to London and back, wished that the flight would last a
little longer. The experience in Business Class on the A380 was far
more comfortable than anything I had experienced before.
All too soon, we landed at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport
(at our appointed time), and I stepped off the plane feeling rested
and ready to embrace the bustle of KL life again. The staff were lined
up to wave me a cheery goodbye and urge me back again, and I left
them with a smile of thanks, certain that Malaysia Airlines’ Business
Class would see me again soon!
From the luxurious lounge at Heathrow to the spacious, comfortable
seat onboard, the experience of Business Class on the MAS A380
was more than I could have hoped for. Fine food, attentive staff, and
every need met without me having to ask; what could be better on a
long journey?
For more information or to book flights, visit
www.malaysiaairlines.com.
THE EXPAT 61
art ...
BY MARYBETH RAMEY
1.
2.
3.
4.
Artist Profile: Yong Siew Fong
A Journey Through Art
S
1. Cool
Size
| 38 x 56cm
Medium | Watercolour
Price
| RM1,000
2. Harmony
Size
| 56 x 76cm
Price
| RM2,500
3. Purify II
Size
| 56 x 76cm
Price
| RM2,500
4. Morning
Size
|
Medium |
Price
|
Glory II
56 x 76cm
Watercolour
RM2,500
iew Fong is a native of Kuala Lumpur
who, now in her mid-30s, still lives
in Ampang. Upon meeting her, I
was struck by several things, primarily
her enthusiasm of pursuing her dream of
becoming a full-time, self-supporting artist.
She is also a gentle, unassuming person
except when the discussion turns to art.
Then she lights up with enthusiasm and
passion.
Her earliest memories are of loving art and
nature and wanting to become proficient
enough to express herself through art.
Her medium of choice was the canvas.
However, her story is similar to that of
many local artists I have interviewed
and profiled over the years. Parental
disapproval – always the well-intentioned
belief that their child would never be
financially independent or stable – is a
recurring theme.
Consequently, Siew Fong dutifully took
the prescribed and expected courses
throughout her school years to prepare
herself for a career in accounting. She
was quite successful, too, working at
several five-star hotels in the KL area.
She married and had a child. Everything
was following a predictable path, but her
longing to pursue her passion ultimately
became overwhelming and Siew Fong
began attending art classes as a parttime student. She quickly advanced to
the highest levels and earned several
certificates of merit.
She later found herself at The Inspire
Academy and was mentored, as so many
of our cover artists over the years have
been, by Master Artist Yeo Eng Peng. He
remains a significant influence in her life
today, guiding her in towards the field of
en plein air painting – or painting outdoors
5.
7.
8.
6.
9.
–as well as encouraging her explorations
with different media, namely watercolours,
oils, and acrylics. More recently, she has
participated in several group exhibitions
and the response has been very
positive, thus spurring her on with great
confidence.
I viewed almost 20 pieces of her
recent work and could see not only
her undeniable talent, but the obvious
progression of her skill. Her watercolours in
particular are skillfully sketched and each
element in the paintings seems to move
on its own with a striking 3-D aspect. She
pays careful attention to minute details in
what she paints, and this lends a polished,
professional veneer to her finished works.
I also love Siew Fong’s use of oils and
acrylics, an example of which is used as
our February cover. Her ability to select
primary, bold, and non-traditional colours
and to then audaciously border them
against each other makes for a truly
signature painting. These oil paintings
evoke joy and happiness in the viewer and,
as I told her, I myself would want to hang
one of her paintings in my own home; the
highest compliment I can give to any artist.
“I want to continually try to improve
myself as a person with a moral and
solid character,” she tells me. “I find I
can use my painting as a way to do this
because it takes much self-discipline, a
deep commitment and a work ethic that
must be constant.” Siew Fong reflected
on how this process speaks to other facets
of her life, as well: “When I paint all the
details in such a precise manner, I am also
working on being more thorough as a
mother, wife, and citizen.”
Siew Fong has long been inspired by the
mountainous landscape surrounding her
home in Ampang. To her, he mountains
represent the height of nature’s majesty
and showcase the beauty of nature’s
bounty. A favoured subject, her mountain
paintings are both soothing and
mesmerizing.
As our February artist, Siew Fong
expressed to me her appreciation for this
opportunity to showcase her work to the
expat community and, in this spirit, has
priced her paintings at very reasonable
and attractive levels. Please contact me
at marybethramey@gmail.com for more
information or if you wish to purchase any.
5. Cordial
Size
| 102 x 76cm
Medium | Oil on canvas
Price
| RM3,000
6. Tenderness
Size
| 102 x 76cm
Price
| RM3,000
7. Vitality
Size
| 102 x 76cm
Price
| RM3,000
8. Purify I
Size
| 56 x 76cm
Price
| RM2,500
9. Morning
Size
|
Medium |
Price
|
Glory III
56 x 76cm
Watercolour
RM2,500
THE EXPAT 63
health matters...
BY DR. MUHILAN PARAMESWARAN
CONSULTANT UROLOGIST
MBBS (INDIA), FAGE (MANIPAL), MRCS (EDIN), M.S (MALAYA). BOARD
CERTIFIED UROLOGIST (M’SIA), FRCS (UROLOGY) (GLASLOW),FELLOW
LAPARASCOPIC SURGERY (INDIA), FELLOWSHIP IN UROLOGY
(AUSTRIA)
Men’s Health
M
any men die
prematurely
every year by
ignoring their own health
until it’s too late. The
impact on their families
tends to be devastating. As
a rule of thumb, men visit
their doctors half as often
as women do, which is
probably why men tend
to get diagnosed later and live shorter lives. Men must be aware
of any changes in their health and get themselves checked out if
something doesn’t feel right.
Here are three key health issues men should never ignore:
1. A lump on your testicles
Testicular cancer is the commonest cancer in men aged 20-25.
Worldwide incidence has doubled since the 1960s. In its early
stages it has no symptoms, and the simplest method of finding
it is by regular self-examination. If men find a lump, its best to
see a urologist. Fortunately, not all lumps are cancerous, but
finding lumps early means a 95% cure rate.
2. Trouble urinating
If you don’t know what your prostate is or does, you’re not
alone: most men don’t.
The prostate sits below the bladder and helps with semen
volume. When it enlarges, it squeezes the urethra and cause
urination problems. If left untreated, the effects of Benign
Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) can range from only just affecting
the quality of life to making men unable to pass urine.
Prostate Cancer is the commonest male cancer in the US and
Europe and sixth-most in Malaysia. It usually presents with
urinary problems or no symptoms at all, and is found using a
PSA test and a rectal examination (usually for men above 45
years). If found early, prostate cancer is treatable and has a
good, long-term survival. (Nelson Mandela and Rudy Giuliani
are survivors.)
,,-*6 "#'
www.tropicanamedicalcentre.com
Our Core Medical & Surgical Specialties
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3. Impotency
Most men have problems getting or keeping an erection
(impotence) at some point.
By the age of 40, impotence has probably happened to each
man at least once, but is usually only a problem if it persists.
It may only be tiredness, but in 75% of cases, impotence was
the first sign of a problem with the heart vessels and appeared
two to three years before a heart attack occurred. In general,
impotency can be treated. Even if men don’t want to be
treated, they should still be checked out; it may save their lives.
TROPICANA MEDICAL CENTRE (M) SDN. BHD.
11, Jalan Teknologi, PJU 5, Kota Damansara,
47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
T: +603 6287 1111 F: +603 6287 1212
www.tropicanamedicalcentre.com
www.facebook.com/TropicanaMedicalCentre
Website: www.tropicanamedicalcentre.com
giving back ...
The Spirit of Kiwanis
AS A COUNTRY WITH ALL THE NECESSARY RESOURCES TO
HELP PARENTS COPE WITH A DISABLED CHILD, MALAYSIA
SHOULD NOT BE AVOIDED BY SUCH FAMILIES. KL-BASED
ADVOCATE FOR THE DISABLED, DR. JASON CHEONG, SITS
DOWN WITH MARYBETH RAMEY AND EXPLAINS WHY.
I
’ve known Dr. Jason Cheong for over a
dozen years as he is our family dentist
in Bangsar. In fact, he was the only
dentist I could ever find who would agree
to work on my teenage son who had a
disability. Last summer, I needed a
specific type of physical therapist and
had spent months trying to find one who
would also agree to come to my home. I
contacted Dr. Jason and, by the next day,
he had given me the name of the therapist
I employ to this day, a person who has
literally transformed my physical condition.
In addition, when I could not find an
appropriate three-wheeled walker to
continue my treatment, Dr. Jason came
to my office, despite of it being in the
middle of his busy day, and modified the
walker I had been using into the one I
needed. Rarely have I been so impressed
and appreciative of someone. Especially
considering that he has a thriving dental
clinic, three children under eight years old,
many hobbies and yet finds the time to be
a leader in this area for the disabled and
people who have special needs. He sat
down with me to discuss his former
role with the Bangsar Kiwanis which is
dedicated to the cause of the disabled.
Dr. Jason explained that the Kiwanis
International Organization has 59 clubs
throughout Malaysia. Though are all under
Kiwanis, clubs are dedicated to specific
causes, and each club selects its own.
Although Kiwanis is not synonymous
with the disabled internationally, the
Malaysian Clubs are well-known for
their focus on major health issues such
as Down’s syndrome, kidney issues, their
historic iodized salt campaigns, and their
immunization programmes in rural areas.
The Kiwanis Club of Pantai, KL decided
several years ago to focus on ways that
could help all the disabled in the country
by undertaking a major project, namely,
building and maintaining a helpful
website, www.disabilitiesmalaysia.com .
Dr. Jason had the idea because he knew
that no centralized lists or groups for
information and resources for the disabled
exist here. He maintains that in every
Malaysian state, there are actually excellent
resources available, but there was no way
to access information about them in one
place, hence the website.
Because he is a doctor, and was trained
in Australia, he knows there is a limited
“window of opportunity” for most
disabled babies and children, especially
those with Down’s syndrome or autism.
Treatments like intensive physical, speech,
and occupational therapies are either
started as soon as possible, or the child has
a far harder time as they grow into adults
or worse, become permanently or more
severely disabled.
The website was immediately successful
and the phone calls poured in. People
who had been searching for physical
therapists, specific doctors, equipment,
and government information all were
able to find excellent resources on the
site including a several thousand volume
library. Unfortunately, the monetary
resources to keep it updated were scarce,
and beginning four years ago, the site
stopped being updated. Although it is still
up and running, approximately 60% of the
listings are now out of date. Therefore Dr
Jason started the. MYDA – The Malaysian
Disability Alliance FACEBOOK GROUP
(www.facebook.com/groups/mydagroup)
“In terms of disabilities, one of the
biggest obstacles in Malaysia today is
the lack of a centralised network for
information, discussion and resources.
This affects the disabled themselves,
their parents, caregivers, therapists and
professionals alike.
“MYDA was set up as an attempt to
pull together the Malaysian disability
community and to allow easy exchange
of information on any and all aspects of
disability. MYDA is an ‘alliance,’ and thus
requires all members to share resources
and work together to provide information
and advice in a timely manner.
“The situation for the disabled in Malaysia
is exacerbated because of two major
problems. First, there is not a single
Ministry devoted to the issue; instead,
there are three that overlap: The Ministry
of Health; The Ministry of Family, Women,
and Children; and The Social Welfare
Ministry,” explains Dr. Jason.
“The second factor is that there are very
few officially recognised disabilities. They
are visual, hearing, speech, physical,
mental and multiple disabilities. Therefore,
even though there is an official ‘Disabled
Status’ card to allow citizens [though not
foreigners] benefits like parking and
tax exemptions, very few Malaysians
actually apply.”
I find him to be an extraordinary person: a
man who not only embodies the epitome
of the mission of Kiwanis, but stands out
as the best kind of citizen for any country.
THE EXPAT 65
body and soul ...
Serenity in Solitude
L
ong working hours, horrendous
traffic, looming deadlines, emails on
our smartphones. We are all familiar
with the daily grind of the fast-paced city
life that often leaves us feeling run down
and a little worse for wear. The good
news is that there is a phenomenon going
around helping to alleviate the stressrelated difficulties in our lives. It’s called…
relaxing.
More commonly known as meditation,
studies have suggested that a mere 10-15
minutes a day of quiet reflection and deep
breathing can add years to your life, not to
mention a bounce to your step. From a stress
standpoint, it helps you to clear the mind
and gives opportunities to increase oxygen
intake – always handy in any situation.
BENEFITS
It has been said that meditation – even in
small doses – can profoundly impact the
health experiences of most. Meditation
has been known to increase blood flow
to major muscles, improve concentration,
reduce anger and boost confidence. A
clear mind also increases productivity,
especially in creative disciplines like writing.
Better health is definitely in the cards as
meditation has been proven to reduce
stress levels, as well as ease anxiety.
“chattering” in your
mind to gradually fade
away. The trick is to
find an “anchor” to
settle your mind, such
as a repetitive mantra
or the visualising of a
peaceful place.
6. Silence your
mind. The next
step is focus
on nothing at
all, essentially
“clearing”
your mind. After
focusing on a single point as described in the
previous step, you can either cast it away,
or observe it impartially and let it go. Use
the same approach with any thoughts that
return to your mind until silence perseveres.
muscles to keep aches at bay – great news
for those hunched behind a desk all day.
NOT THAT FAR OF A STRETCH
Yoga is the yin to meditation’s yang, so
it is not surprising the two go hand in
hand. An ancient Indian practice, the
word “yoga” itself means “union” – of
the individual consciousness or soul with
the universal spirit of the world. With its
roots in ancient India, it was brought to
the West in the late 19th century and
gained popularity in the 1990s due to
celebrity endorsements from supermodels
and moguls alike. Known for its health
benefits and its ability to transform couch
potatoes into supple, athletic nymphs, one
can choose from different versions of the
practice ranging from traditional Hatha
yoga and physical Jivamukti yoga to the
cardio-based Ashtanga yoga and more
meditative Yin yoga. It has also inspired
new forms of exercise and is seen as the
base to popular workouts such as Bikram
Hot yoga and Prenatal yoga.
3. Hitting the hay. There is speculation
that a regular yoga practice helps
relaxation, making it easier to switch off.
Doing three weekly sessions at any time
of the day may also help you sleep more
soundly.
6. Healthy you. Yoga helps with a variety
of health conditions, such as depression,
pain, anxiety, insomnia and fatigue. It has
also been known to reduce heart disease
and high blood pressure.
4. Relax everything. Keep searching for
parts of your body that are not relaxed.
When you find them (and you will),
consciously relax them.
Whichever pose you choose, here’s
why you should get stretching:
1. Happy high. Doing one hour of
asanas—a sequence of standing, sitting
and balancing poses - have been proven
to help raise levels of the brain chemical
GABA (short for gamma-aminobutyric
acid), low levels of which are linked with
depression.
5. Let your attention rest on the flow
of your breath. The goal is to allow the
2. Adios to lower back pain. Posing
improves posture and strengthens back
Steps to meditate:
1.Make time to meditate. Set aside
enough time in your daily routine for
meditating. Early mornings and in the
evenings are often most preferable.
2. Find or create a quiet, relaxing
environment. It is especially important
to avoid any obstacles to focusing. If you
choose to play music, pick calm and gentle
tunes.
3. Sit on level ground. Sit on a cushion
if the ground is uncomfortable. The
important thing is to keep your back
straight, as it helps with breathing later on.
4. Tone it up. Yoga uses your body weight
to move from posture to posture, and that
builds strength. Muscle-building asanas
like Crow, Crescent, Warrior III and plank
ensure you give the dumbbell-lifting gym
crowd a run for their money.
5. Namaste the stress away. Yoga has
been shown to release less cytokine (a
tension-triggered type of protein) that can
result in fatigue and moodiness. With its
quiet, precise movements, yoga draws your
focus towards serenity as you move your
body through poses that require balance
and concentration.
If you find yourself dangerously close to
falling off the ‘get healthy’ New Year’s
Resolution bandwagon, nip out to a park
or quiet space for a quick spot of yoga
and meditation. Who knew slowing down
could speed up the path to rejuvenation?
THE EXPAT 67
The
International School of Kuala Lumpur
Since 1965
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ISKL is a non-profit, parent-owned school and the first US fully accredited international school in Kuala Lumpur. We have
a rich tradition of producing graduates who are accepted into prestigious universities worldwide. As a parent-governed
school, all policies are forged to promote a supportive yet challenging environment for students. Additionally, more than
two-thirds of ISKL’s faculty hold degrees at Master’s and Doctorate levels. ISKL serves students from age three to
19 and our program culminates in a High School Diploma, the International Baccalaureate Diploma and Advanced
Placement courses. ISKL’s success in preparing graduates to be responsive and responsible world citizens continues
to set the benchmark for other premier international schools. ISKL is a member of the Interscholastic Association of
Southeast Asian Schools (IASAS).
Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS)
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Admissions Office:
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education ...
School Snaps
MALAYSIA’S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS ARE REGULARLY ABUZZ WITH ACTIVITIES,
AND WE SHARE HERE THE NEWS OF THEIR EVENTS, SUCCESSES, AND EXCITING NEW
ANNOUNCEMENTS OVER THE PAST MONTH.
Uplands Students Travel to
Phuket for Football
The U13 and O15 Boys and Girls football teams from the International School of
Penang (Uplands) traveled to Phuket last November to play in a 2 day football
tournament, with over 800 participants! The students were a credit to Uplands. The
highlight of the U13 Boys games was beating the hosts and eventual runners up,
BIS Phuket 2-0. The U13 girls came fourth, which was excellent considering they only had one
substitute! The O15 boys played some of the best football ever. They finished fourth. The O15 girls were our most successful team,
being awarded a silver medal. It was great tournament and credit must go to BIS Phuket for their fantastic organisation.
Tarzan the Musical:
A R.E.A.L. Surian Production
With an elaborate set, intricate costumes, song, dance, music and of course, colourful characters, a
group of talented students and staff from R.E.A.L Schools, Suria Campus in Cheras brought to life the
famous and much-loved tale of Tarzan. Opened to the public, the musical ran for two consecutive days
on the 30th and 31st of October 2012, and was held at the school’s Hall of Character. Four months
of production work, endless rehearsals, and sacrificing time in between classes all paid off in the end
as the Surian students put on a splendid show that thoroughly entertained audiences and imbued the
students with values such as teamwork and discipline.
Kinabalu International School Beach
and Reef Clean-Up Proves A Success
Students and staff in the KIS Diving and Conservation Club recently organised a beach and
reef clean-up on Gaya Island, with 30 students helping to clean up a remote part of the island,
inaccessible except by foot. In total, the students collected rubbish weighing approximately 675kg,
which was thereafter sent for recycling. Students also participated in an environmental awareness
quiz on the island where they learnt about the positive benefits of recycling. Mr Stuart McLay, the
KIS Principal, commented, “Our students are very aware of the need to care for the environment
and this activity came from their strong desire to do something about marine debris.”
elc International School Celebrates Its
25th Anniversary in Style
elc International School rounded off its 25th anniversary in style with a gala dinner event
at the Sunway Convention Centre. From elc’s humble beginnings, it was amazing to fully
appreciate how far they have come. The evening kicked off glamorously with students
on the catwalk for an exclusive fashion show, produced in conjunction with STYLO
International. Students confidently showcased outfits from the elegant to the outrageous.
To round off the evening, former student and internationally renowned opera singer
Miranda Keys took the stage, serenading the audience with a selection of arias.
THE EXPAT 69
The Little Prince Staged by AISM’s
Middle School Students
The Australian International School Malaysia recently held its Middle School production based on the novel The
Little Prince by A. De Saint Exupery. The one-act play was the first school production to be held at the school’s
new Black Box Theatre. A black box theatre is a unique space for drama, equipped with high-tech audio-visual
systems enjoyed by all year groups in the school.
The students of AISM played the characters in the story to perfection, telling the audience the tale of a
little boy who leaves the safety of his own tiny planet to travel the universe. In his long journey, he learns the
vagaries of adult behaviour through a series of extraordinary encounters. It was a production that will be long
remembered, and the students enjoyed presenting it to family, staff and friends.
GIS Celebrates Early Christmas
with Over 900 Refugee Children
We would like to thank our school community for giving such wonderful Christmas gifts and
generous donations for our annual Santa’s Grotto held last year. As a result of your kindness, we
were able to give 1,967 children and teenagers from our Community Partner Centres a present for
Christmas last year.
On Saturday 8th December, we organised our annual Refugee Christmas Party at GIS for 940
Refugee Children. They had great fun visiting the stalls, enjoying the outside activities, and taking
part in a wonderful Christmas show! A favourite moment for us was dancing Gangnam style!
Thanks to all the parents, teaching/non-teaching and student volunteers from GIS who helped
to make both Santa’s Grotto and the Refugee Christmas party so successful. Well done to the Community Service Leadership Group for
working non- stop organising the event over the last half term. A very special thank you to Tesco Extra Mutiara Damansara for their very
kind donation of RM5,000 which went towards presents, candy canes, refreshments for the Christmas party, and wrapping paper. Without
all of your energy and kindness, we would not have been able to make such a positive difference in the lives of so many children.
MULAN: An Incredible Journey
for ISKL Students
This year’s MS Musical had everyone traveling back to the legendary, story-telling days of ancient China with the
action-packed stage adaptation of Disney’s MULAN.
Disney’s MULAN JR. was a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor, and a fighting spirit. There were over
100 students involved in the show, with most of them being onstage. The students had to juggle many rehearsals
including weekend run-throughs and still keep up with their after-school activities and homework. Not an easy feat
for 11-13 year olds, but they did it with style, talent, and pizazz.
The ISKL community was incredibly supportive of the students as they filled the house for almost every
performance. Friday night’s gala event was a hit, with Chinese appetizers provided by Marco Polo restaurant,
Chinese drumming and calligraphy done by our middle school students, and everyone showing off their Asian
formal wear.
Nexus Hosts Visitors from Taiwanese School
In December, students and teachers from Taiwan Zhudong Junior school visited Nexus for a student exchange
programme, shadowing learners from Year 7 to Year 9. Nexus Mandarin and the ICT department initiated
integration activities where learners and their visitors collaborated on creating a commercial using iMovie. The
topic of the short movie was why people should visit Malaysia. This featured different aspects of Malaysia such as
food, culture, tourist hot spots, and fashion. In the course of this project, the kids learned how to use language
and research information using a variety of sources. This visit followed a trip that Nexus learners and teachers
made to Taiwan in November. Everyone involved felt this was a rewarding experience, and not only learned more
about Taiwan and its culture, but also made some new friends in the process!
THE EXPAT 71
education...
Award for Bright
and Deserving
Scholars
F
or the third year, the Alice
Smith School is proud to
award three deserving
post-SPM Malaysian students full
scholarships enabling them to
pursue their A Level studies.The
scholarships commenced in January
Angertdev Singh, Quah Paik Suan
2013 and will run until July 2014.
and Andrew Ng’s mum with the
The full scholarship will cover tuition
management. Andrew was away on
music tour in Brisbane.
fees, building levy and enrollment
fee including all textbooks and
materials, external examination fees and curriculum-based trips.
Scholar Quah Paik Suan, who was a Head Prefect of SMK
Damansara Jaya said, “I am extremely grateful for this scholarship.
It will be a completely different experience and I look forward to
experiencing an international education here in Malaysia.” An
accomplished violinist, Andrew Ng was thrilled to know that Alice
Smith offers Music as a subject choice at A Level. “Personally,
I believe that Alice Smith will take me further in my search for
self-enrichment, offering invaluable exposure and broadening
my perspectives as well as helping me in achieving my goal as a
musician,” Andrew shared.
An active member of a community bagpipe band, Angertdev Singh
looks forward to furthering his studies at Cambridge or the London
School of Economics. “This scholarship will be a stepping stone for
my experience. I believe that the school will offer the best of British
education, providing the right exposure for me,” he said.
Equally proud and excited are Angertdev’s parents. “We are really
overwhelmed by the warm welcome from everyone, especially the
teaching staff. They seem really passionate and take a genuine
interest; a real positive synergy between teachers and students.”
Valerie Thomas-Peter, the Director of School, noted, “As a
not-for-profit educational foundation, we are pleased that our
resources are benefitting deserving Malaysian students. This award
also provides the opportunity for the scholars to learn in a truly
diverse and dynamic community, as our students hail from over 45
different nations.”
Roger Schultz, Principal of the Secondary Campus, added, “Our
scholars will have an added advantage over others who are
studying in standard A Level programmes. The Alice Smith School
is one of the first schools in Asia to offer the AQA Baccalaureate
in addition to A Levels. The AQA Baccalaureate is an academic
qualification which builds on a student’s core A Level subjects,
adding value through wider learning and enrichment activities.
Students are required to complete 100 hours of enrichment
activities in the core areas of work related learning, community
participation and personal development activities. This will enable
the scholars to be well prepared in gaining entry to top-notch
universities worldwide.”
THE EXPAT 73
m o re i n fo r m at i o n at w w w. E x p at G o M a l aysi a . co m / w w w.Th e E x p at G ro u p. co m
Sheraton Imperial
THE EXPAT 75
Truly Inspiring & Luxurious
A Pleasurable Experience at
The Gardens Hotel & Residences
Ȉ RM353*
Ȉ ǡ03-2268 1111
resvnkul@gardenshtlres.com
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Ǥ
ȗ ͷͶάͼάǤ
ȗ ƬǤ
WEEKEND SENSATION

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Fo r S up e r Hot D e al s , lo g on t o w w w. c h m-hot el s . c om
KUALA LUMPURǣǡǡ
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ASSOCIATES : LONDONǦ
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NEW YORK Ǧ
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Go On, Treat Yourself!
Festive Feasting
Usher in the Chinese New Year with a wonde
is available throughout the month to please
ges
ange o
change daily, but look out for Braised Teoch
k with Gingko Nut and S med Fl
th Ginger
Soy Sauce, while there are also plenty of vegetarian and international options available. Adults pay RM88++ for
the scrumptious fare, while children (aged 6-12) pay RM44++ and youngsters aged 5 and below dine for free!
The Spread is located on level 6 of The Gardens Hotel and Residences. Lunch is served from 11.30am-2.30pm and
reservations are recommended. Contact the restaurant on 03.2268 1123 or fbadmkul@gardenshtlres.com.
Food for Lovers
Amid the frenzy of Chinese New Year, don’t let Valentine’s Day slip by unnoticed! You can treat your special
someone this year by whisking them off to Still Waters, where a five-course fusion menu will guide you through
a surprising and satisfying food experience. Merging Cantonese and Japanese flavours, the menu includes items
such as Pumpkin Cream and Scallop Soup, Sushi Salmon Carpaccio, and a Chocolate Cheese Brownie to end. Sets
are priced at RM195nett per person and are the perfect option for spoiling your loved one in a cosy, romantic
environment.
Still Waters is located on the ground floor of the Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur and the Valentine’s Day Set Menu is available
on 14 February from 6.30pm-10.30pm. To book, call 03.2711 8866.
Indulge on 15
Better, Brighter, and Tastier
The recently
opened Cedar
on 15 is the
new place to
head to for
a stunning
view of KLCC
and a fine
tipple as you
contemplate
your evening,
and there are
some great
deals on drinks to make it easier on the wallet too. Every single day
from 6pm-9pm sees some great Happy Hour promotions on selected
drinks, while Thursday and Friday evenings (6pm-2am) are Ladies
Nights! Once thirst has been quenched, why not take a table in the
restaurant and enjoy some fine dining with a fine view to match?
Cedar on 15 is located in the Impiana KLCC Hotel on Jalan Pinang and is
open from 6pm daily. Visit www.kualalumpurhotels.impiana.com.my, call
03.2147 1111 (ext 3711), or email Cedaron15@impiana.com.
The InterContinental
Kuala Lumpur has relaunched their Chinese
restaurant Tao Chinese
Cuisine just in time for
the Chinese New Year
season with interiors
that are better and
brighter than ever and
food – thanks to Chef
Wong Lian You’s dazzling new menu – to match. During February,
you can take Tao for a test drive by enjoying one of the Celebratory
Sets (minimum three people) at lunchtime – these are priced at
RM128++ for seven courses or RM138++ for eight – or visit with
ten or more people at lunch or dinner for a Festive Set (priced
from RM1,488++ to RM2,288++ per table of ten). Chef Wong’s
food sparkles thanks to a modern touch on traditional dishes.
Tao Chinese Cuisine is open for lunch daily from 12pm-2.30pm (open
from 11am on weekends and public holidays) and for dinner daily from
6.30pm-10.30pm. Make a reservation on 03.2782 6128 or email on
foodandbeverage@intercontinental-kl.com.my.
DOES NOT
Recommend Sixty3 Club KL at Sheraton Imperial Hotel
Note: Sixty3 is located at the Sheraton but not owned or operated by them.
THE EXPAT 77
PHOTOS BY KIMMIE CHAI
Arrivederci!
to Rustic
Charm
Fact File :
La Risata
128 Jalan Kasah
Medan Damansara
50490 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03.2095 9572
Price Ranges:
Entrees RM6-60 (for platters)
Mains RM15-70
Desserts RM7-38
Opening Times:
Daily 12pm-2.30pm,
6.30pm-10.30pm
For more restaurant reviews visit:
www.DineMalaysia.com
THE TRANSLATION OF La Risata could not ring truer. Meaning “laughter” in Italian,
this dining delight is an absolute gem, exuding a certain charm attributed to its friendly
staff, scrumptious food, and cosy environment. The rustic Italian setting of red bricks
and outdoor terraces instantly transports you to the trattorias of Florence, while the
constant warm welcome confirms its reputation as a regular hot spot.
The menu exhibits an extensive variety of authentic Italian dishes ranging from
traditional wood-fired pizzas to delicious homemade pastas, from meat and seafood
dishes to desserts, all of which exude the very essence of Italian dining.
The Antipasti platter is a safe starting bet in most places, and La Risata’s version
features grilled mushroom, deep fried calamari rings, beef carpaccio, and garlic crostinis,
with one of the smoothest chicken liver pâtés this side of Rome.
Creamy pastas often have a consistency that is difficult to achieve but La Risata nails
it with their house specialty, the Ravioli de Pesce. Freshly made salmon ravioli served in
a creamy salmon sauce, this bowlful most definitely hits the spot, and it is worth noting
that all their pastas (look out for gnocchi, fettucine, and spaghetti) are made fresh.
Pizza is the undisputed highlight here – there are twenty different types to choose
from, as well as the “half-half” pizzas (where two types are combined) that are best
enjoyed when shared. A standout dish would be the Pizza D’Anatra featuring succulent
smoked duck, rocket, anchovies, sweet caramelised onion, and mozzarella cheese.
Vegetarians need not worry as the Pizza Porcini (packed with porcini mushrooms,
button mushrooms, and fontina cheese) stands head and shoulders above its carnivorous
counterparts.
La Risata’s chefs come up with a “specials” menu each month, so if there’s one
available when you visit, give it a go. Salads are a great way to cool off in the KL heat and
La Risata has a typically Italian variety.
The dessert selection is not for the faint hearted; it includes that famous Italian
staple panna cotta, heavenly tiramisu, zesty parmesan cheesecake, and luscious bread
and butter pudding served with butterscotch and ice cream – expect rich, creamy
goodness in every bite.
An extensive wine list, ice-cold Italian sodas, chilled fruit juices, and specialty coffee
with liquor (try the caffe risata as a surefire pick-me-up) round up the far-reaching
choices available on the drinks menu.
La Risata is said to have been serving some of the best Italian food in KL since 1996, and
the authentic goodies they whip up are not going to argue with that. By Manveen Maan
WWW..EXPATGOMALAYSIA.COM
THE EXPAT 79
PHOTOS BY CHARLES LEE
Happy Pigs,
Happier
Wolves
Fact File :
Three Little Pigs &
The Big Bad Wolf
Lot G1A Ground Floor, Bangsar Village
1 Jalan Telawi Satu, Bangsar Baru
59100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03.2283 2270
Facebook: www.facebook.com/
PigsAndWolf
Price Ranges:
Breakfast: RM8-20
Lunch: RM12-25
Dinner: RM19-29 (except ribs, RM59)
Opening Times:
Pigs: 10.00am to 6.00pm every day
Wolf: 6.00pm to 11.30pm every day
I’M NOT SURE how familiar the fairy tale of “The Three Little Pigs” is to Malaysians, but
most Western expats will be well-versed in the 19th-century English story. At Three Little
Pigs & The Big Bad Wolf, a chic new restaurant in Bangsar, the play on words means not
only is pork a main attraction here, but that the whole concept – a clever and well-executed
one, at that – revolves around two different themes. By day, the eatery is the Three Little
Pigs, but when dinner time rolls around, a small transformation ensues, and the restaurant
becomes The Big Bad Wolf. The lighting changes, the servers wear different uniforms, a
marvellous choose-your-own wine room is revealed, the menus are switched, and a number
of other subtle shifts are made. If you visit for lunch one day, then return again another
day for dinner, you may think you’ve landed in an entirely different restaurant.
Occupying over 3,000 sq. ft. in a fantastic space in Bangsar Village, Pigs and Wolf, as
the short form goes, has a lot of area with which to work, and it’s put to great use. There’s
an inside part that seats about 35, complemented by an enclosed patio area (fully airconditioned) that comfortably seats 45-50. But there’s more… a private dining room for 10
is set off to the side, and at the other end of the restaurant, an open-air terrace provides
Pig and Wolf’s only smoking area.
So the concept is brilliant, and the ambiance terrific, but what about the food?
Happily, it’s easy to report that whether you come during Pig time (10am to 6pm) or Wolf
time (6pm to 11:30pm), you will be thrilled by the eclectic menu. Pork, in all its yummy
goodness, is definitely a mainstay here, but there are many non-pork dishes from which to
choose, too. Get off to a good start with a choice from a trio of tasty soups such as Potato
and Leek Soup with Bacon, Wild Mushroom Soup with Truffle Oil, and Sweet Carrot Soup.
Or choose their classic Caesar salad with Bacon and Shaved Parmesan. Lovers of the greens
will surely want to come back several times to try all the various salads here… there’s a
Bacon and Asparagus Salad, a Soft-Shell Crab Salad, a Smoked Salmon Salad, and more,
including a vegetarian Soba Salad with Grilled Veggies. There are also a few non-meat
pastas on the menu, as well.
But hungry carnivores will be well-sated here, too. Want a plate full of Baby Back Ribs
so tender the meat falls off the bone? This is your place, and these are easily some of the
best ribs I’ve had in KL. A read through the Big Bad Wolf menu – that’s dinner, remember?
– will set the mouth to drooling. Cheesy Pork Lasagna, Shepherd’s Pie, Ultimate Chicken
Parmigiana, Grilled Pork Pesto, Mushroom and Truffle Spaghetti, and so much more, all at
reasonable prices. Some of the menu items have such whimsical names, a visit to Pigs and
Wolf is warranted just to see what they are: The Wolf’s Favourite, the Mighty Piggy Burger,
Alien Invasion, and Piggies Rolling in the Mud.
Breakfast is served, too, and the plans are to open earlier in the morning in the near
future. For now, it’s 10am to get your bacon and eggs, smoked sausages, or a tasty Eggs
Benedict. Whatever hour you arrive, and whether you’re a Pig or a Wolf, you will surely
leave happy and will certainly be back for more. By Chad Merchant
THE EXPAT 81
PHOTOS BY KIMMIE CHAI
Chinese
New Year
Cheer
Fact File :
West Lake Garden
Sunway Resort Hotel and Spa
Persiaran Lagoon
Bandar Sunway
Petaling Jaya
Tel: 03.7492 8000
www.kualalumpur.sunwayhotels.com
Prices:
There are four set menus available,
and they are priced from RM1,088++ to
RM2,013++ per table of ten depending on
the choice
Opening Times:
Daily 12pm-2.30pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm
(open from 10 am Sundays and public
holidays)
YOU WOULD NEED to be living under a rock to have not felt the Chinese New Year
fever that is gripping the country once again, and regardless of your race or religion, this
is a super time to get stuck into the best of the festivities: the food! Like many hotels and
restaurants nationwide, the West Lake Garden – which occupies a lovely spacious area off
the lobby of Sunway Resort Hotel and Spa – is putting on a super New Year spread that
reminds diners of just why the much-loved dishes are exactly that.
Chef Lee Yew Ken is the man in the kitchen, and his CNY offerings include four
different set menus that cater for a range of tastes and budgets. All of them begin
with yee sang – it would be criminal not to – and Chef Lee’s homemade sauce is back to
popular demand. “I use peach and pineapple, as well as plum,” he tells me, as we watch
the waiters arranging the colourful salad, “and last year everyone loved it!” The yee sang
toppings range from lobster to salmon depending on the set ordered, and all must be
tossed high and loudly for lots of luck in the coming year!
Regardless of set ordered, the subsequent seven courses include soup, meat and
fish dishes, before dessert ends the mighty meal, and the balance of dishes chosen on
each set is careful, guiding the stomach through a symphony of filling, attractive, and
enjoyable meals. Keep an eye out for the chef’s favourite savoury of Oven Baked Rock
Salt Chicken with Herbs – this tender chicken has all the warming flavours of herbs, and
is subtle in a way that only confident chefs can pull off. The Canadian Cod is as light as
chocolate mousse and delicately delicious; seafood lovers will be thrilled with the large
choice of dishes across the menus, but this was my favourite. Desserts are traditional
options done terrifically – the sticky, treacly New Year’s Cake had my whole table
clamouring for more.
Once the stomach is full, it is easy to linger and enjoy the calm that seems to imbue
this richly decorated restaurant. Decked in deep reds and fluffy carpets, the large main
dining area has a wall of windows to allow sunlight to stream in or lights to twinkle,
depending on the time of your soiree, while six private dining rooms are ideal for those
looking for some space and privacy.
Amid the mass of restaurants to choose from this season, West Lake Gardens can
certainly hold its own, especially when you factor in the ample parking and the proximity
to the much-loved mall for some post-meal shopping opportunities. If you’d rather lie
low until the whole festive frenzy is over, visit in March and see if Chef Lee’s winning
touch extends into the dim sum buffet and the a’ la carte menu; I suspect it might!
By Sarah Rees
THE EXPAT 83
SILVER SPOON
Luscious
Valentine
Sultry Yet Seductive Dining Experience
RM250 per couple
Make a date with us at 03.6201 6800
Email: devan@silversp.com.my ; noraini@silversp.com.my
SILVER SPOON @ PUBLIKA
Lot No 33, Level G2, Publika, No 1, Jalan Dutamas 1, Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
T: 03.6201 6800
E: info@silversp.com.my
Facebook: www.facebook.com/silverspoon.kl
The most delectable dishes and
desirable deals are now
all in one place.
Go to DineMalaysia.com today for the best offers, news, events, bars and restaurants in Malaysia.
Play with your Food!
MALAYSIA IS A PLACE where food is so
tightly wound up in culture, that a meal
is always an educational as well as filling
experience. No cultural group has more
traditional dishes than the Chinese, and it
is during Chinese New Year that most of
us come into contact with the festive food
that is trotted out year in year out for so
much more than eating enjoyment. These
ingredients, these dishes, and the way
in which they are prepared have special
meaning, and are an important way of
ensuring that the New Year will be a
good one.
One of the integral components of any
Chinese New Year meal is the yee sang, and
while expats will no doubt have seen these
colourful salads advertised everywhere, not
everyone understands the significance of
this messy food, or indeed how important it
is to Malaysia.
The yee sang is, quite simply, a raw fish salad,
and its earliest origins can be traced back
to the Southern Song Dynasty in China
(1127-1279). Like many of the foods we
enjoy today, it made its way to Malaya (as
it was then known) via Chinese migrants,
but it wasn’t until the 1960s when someone
decided that it would be a great way to
celebrate Chinese New Year, and it became
such a firm staple of the season.
Quite who made that decision is a bone of
contention – Malaysians like to think it
is theirs, while Singaporeans lay claim to
beginning the tradition – but either way, the
yee sang is now an integral part of Chinese
New Year eating in these two countries
exclusively; nowhere else in the world
placing such an important emphasis on this
fun appetizer.
And it is a lot of fun, especially for those of
us who are used to being squawked at by
parents if we do anything but eat our food
neatly and quietly. At the beginning of the
meal, a waiter brings to the table a huge
dish of shredded vegetables in a rainbow of
colours – ingredients include radish, carrot,
red peppers, and pickled ginger – along
with a plate of raw fish (usually salmon) and
various other condiments.
Nearly every single thing on the plate has
significance – the crushed peanuts that
are added by the waiter send wishes for a
household full of gold and silver, while the
sesame seeds that follow are for a flourishing
business. Deep-fried crackers are also added,
before a sweet plum sauce is drizzled on.
Once all the ingredients are in place, guests
scramble to their feet, chopsticks in hand,
and get stuck in to mixing the salad as
noisily and as high as they can! This is not
just an excuse to be raucous: it is thought
that the higher the mixing, the more
money will be made in the new year,
and as the group mix they will
shout auspicious wishes to
one another.
and abundance in the new year, plus it’s a lot
of fun too!
Many restaurants and hotels will be offering
yee sang this year – whether it is part of a
set meal or one its own – and, as is always
the way with a competitive environment,
there are many creative spins on the old
favourite to tempt customers. A fruity yee
sang can sometimes be seen, while one
hotel offered a Cesar salad version last year,
complete with croutons and parmesan
cheese. Presentation can become elaborate
too, and one hotel in Petaling Jaya was
known for its painstakingly prepared yee
sang that resembled a dragon for last year’s
celebration; it took hours to create and
minutes to demolish, costing guests
nearly RM900.
You don’t, however, have to spend a fortune
to get a taste of this auspicious food this
month, and if you have never tried it before,
why not take the opportunity to play with
your food in the name of luck and money?
By Elizabeth Perry
The importance comes from
the name: yee sang, which
comes from the word yusheng.
The literal translation is raw
fish, but yusheng sounds very
similar to a word that means
abundance. The sound of words
is very important in Chinese
superstition – the number four
is considered bad because it
sounds like the word for death –
and thus the yee sang is deemed
vital to bring the hoped for luck
THE EXPAT 85
Strongbow Black Velvet
ARE YOU IN the mood for trying a new mix of your favorite
beers? Explore a Strongbow Black Velvet! The Strongbow Black
Velvet is a very well balanced beer cocktail. It is made from the
mix of crisp, refreshing Strongbow and bold, distinctive Guinness.
Imagine the yin and yang. 50% Strongbow. 50% Guinness. 100%
delicious. The drink was first created in 1861 by a bartender of
the Brooks’s Club of London, one of London’s most exclusive
gentlemen’s clubs.
Find out where you can indulge in a pint of this delicious beer
cocktail by visiting Strongbow Malaysia’s facebook page,
fb.com/strongbow.my
INGREDIENTS
Strongbow Cider
t
t Guinness Draught
METHOD
t Fill ½ glass with chilled Strongbow Cider
t Using a barspoon, push the Guinness tap forward gently and
pour Guinness draught over the back of the spoon to create a
layered effect Serve.
ADDITIONAL NOTES
Bittersweet taste profile with fruity aftertaste
Strongbow Black Velvet is appreciated for finely balancing the
crisp, refreshing taste of Strongbow with the bold, distinctive
taste of Guinness
t
t
FREE SUBSCRIPTION
TO E X PATS L I V I N G I N
MAL AYSIA
PP// ()
We offer a free monthly subscription to any expats living in Malaysia. Your free subscription includes
the monthly magazine, a copy of The Expat Welcome Guide and two other annual supplements.
ExpatGoMalaysia.com|October 
ExpatGoMalaysia.com|December 
Malaysian readers are asked to contribute RM60 a year, which covers about half the cost of producing
and mailing out the magazine. We charge Malaysians a fee as our magazine is primarily intended to help
expats enjoy Malaysia more and our advertisers are only paying us to reach expats on our mailing list.
Why do we ask for personal details?
Our advertisers place a lot of value on demographic data and they are our sole source of revenue.
We never release individual details for any subscriber, just summary information.
Full Name (Mr / Ms / Mrs / Dr):
Nationality:
Mailing Address:
Occupation:
WISHING
ALL
T H E E X PA T
READERS A
M E R RY C H R I S T M A S & H A P P Y N E W Y E A R !
If retired, are you here under the Malaysia My Second Home programme:
Yes
Postcode:
City/Town:
Tel Home:
Tel Office:
No (please tick one)
Marital Status: (please tick one)
Single
Married
Divorced
Widow
Age group: (please tick one)
Mobile:
20 - 30
E-mail:
31- 40
41-50
Number of children living with you:
Age of children: (Please enter number in each group)
Borneo Vision Sdn Bhd (295020-P)
7th floor, Syed Kechik Foundation Building, Jalan Kapas, Bangsar, 59100 KL.
Tel: 03-2093 9539 Fax: 03-2094 9690
E-mail: subscribemag@theexpatgroup.com
Up to 5:
Aged 6 - 12:
Aged 13 - 18:
Aged over 18:
51-60
over 60
6+233,1*
EF
Interested to view antique pottery from
11th to 19th century shipwrecks?
If so, visit: www.mingwrecks.com &
www.thewanlishipwreck.com and
call Sten on 012-761 4759
for viewing in Kuala Lumpur.
Nanhai Marine Archaology Sdn. Bhd. (415362-V)
THE EXPAT 87
6+233,1*
Finally in MALAYSIA!
The worldwide most targeted method for a beautiful body
All natural, safe and effective way to reduce fat, toxins and cellulite on
your stomach, waist, hips, buttocks and thighs.
,HZ`L_LYJPZL
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fat reduction at target areas on the body
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VY
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VY
Hartamas Studio
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Bangsar Studio
Kuala Lumpur
Pulau Tikus Studio
Penang
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>LIZP[L!^^Ô`WV_PZ[\KPVT`
-HJLIVVR!^^^MHJLIVVRJVTO`WV_PZ[\KPV
6+233,1*
This Month’s Special –
Chilean, South African & Argentinean Wines
Veramonte was founded as a vineyard-based winery whose mission was to produce high quality wines that
accurately, authentically express varietal characteristics via Chile’s unique terroirs - Their commitment
to nurturing the ties of every wine to its soil or “sense of place” reflects a dedication to produce terroir
expressive wines.
VERAMONTE RESERVE SAUVIGNON BLANC
Good clarity with light straw colour. Fresh stone fruit, citrus, and herbs mingle with floral accents on the nose.
Zesty, medium-bodied with flavours of citrus, melon and herb flavours that linger on the palate.
VERAMONTE RESERVE MERLOT
Dark ruby red, rich blackberry and cherry aromas spiced with black pepper and tobacco, hints of eucalyptus
and mint, and a subtle underlay of oak. Rich and generous berry flavours with intensity and concentration.
Special Price RM65 Members Price RM61 each
Created by award-winning winemaker Guy Webber, Stellenzicht’s Hill&Dale label offers a range of accessibly
styled wines with a New World character for international appeal.
HILL & DALE CHARDONNAY
Crisp, clear and vibrant with hues of lime green and golden straw. Wafts of fresh lime, butterscotch and mingling
tropical fruits. Creamy citrus dominates initially while the same hints of vanilla show at the end. The crisp
acidity results in a clean, refreshing aftertaste.
HILL & DALE PINOTAGE
Dark ruby with purple edges. Medley of darker berries Medium to full-bodied. Good concentration of raspberry
fruitiness and slightly austere on the finish. Soft, ripe tannins add to a very pleasant finish that lingers
Chakana has grown from 0 exports in 2004 to more than 120.000 cases exported in 2009, in addition to a 1.5
million liter Bag in Box business that positions Chakana as the leading Argentine brand in Sweden. CHAKANA TORRONTES
Pale yellow with green hints. Orange skins, melon and white flowers (jasmine and rose) with notes of honey. Good
balance, fresh and rich with an after taste of white peaches.
CHAKANA BONARDA
Purple red in colour with violet hints. Black berries and cherries with floral notes. Good juicy tannins and round
finish. Medium-bodied and very easy to drink.
Expat Card members
always enjoy the
lowest price!
TO ORDER:
Call Anne at 03.2094 9664 or e-mail anne@theexpatgroup.com.
For free delivery in KL/PJ area, minimum order is 12 bottles
(you can mix wines). We will require payment by cash or credit card
(ExpatCard members can pay by cheque). American Express, Visa,
and MasterCard payments are subject to a 4% administration
charge because of the low margins on these special offers.
THE EXPAT 89
6+233,1*6(59,&(6
Chinese
New Year
Festive Sale
at Senasia
Collection
THROUGHOUT THE MONTH of February, shoppers will be able
to enjoy 25% off all items at Senasia Collection, buying some lovely
pieces for the home at a reduced price!
Senasia Collection is known for its meticulously hand-crafted items,
all of which are made by a team of Master Craftsmen in Indonesia and
Thailand from recycled teak wood recovered off reclaimed ships. Each
piece of furniture is handpicked for its unique appeal and character,
ensuring that no two pieces are the same.
The collection of rustic furniture available includes a wide range of
vases, lamps, paintings, and other decorative items that are suitable
for any home setting and can add character to reflect the impeccable
taste of the owners.
Senasia Collection, 233 Jalan Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia; 03.2202 3369; info@senasiacollection.com;
www.senasiacollection.com
Lot 46098B, jln. besar, kampung sg tua,
bt. 9, off jln. ulu yam, 68000 batu caves, selangor
tel: 603 6189 0808/6189 3331
fax: 603 61898220
bangsar
126, jalan maarof,
bangsar 59100 kuala lumpur
tel/fax: 603 2092 1555
ampang
15 persiaran ampang hilir,
ampang 5500 kuala lumpur
tel/fax: 603 4256 7518
penang
521d-08-01, the Cove, jln tg. bungah,
11200 tanjung bungah, penang
tel/fax: 604 8902987/ 016 4506745
You Relax…
«We Take Care of your Hair»
KIDS + WOMENS CLASSES
ALSO AVAILABLE
TRAIN AT YOUR
OWN TIME
NO FIXED
SCHEDULES !
To register, please contact DZIANTI MERICAN 012-3300280
Email: mericanmuaythai@gmail.com
OPENING HOURS:
Mon – Sat 10.30am – 11.00pm
MERICAN MUAY THAI GYM
3-2 BLOCK A, JALAN SOLARIS,
SOLARIS MONT KIARA, 50480 KUALA LUMPUR.
LéonLouis
Paris
A-0-1 Ground floor « La grande Kiara »
11 Jalan Duta Kiara, Mont Kiara
Appointment with our French Consultant
03 6201 0506 / leonlouisparis@gmail.com
Facebook: Leonlouis Paris
THE EXPAT 91
6+233,1*6(59,&(6
Chinese New Year
Events at
Sunway Pyramid
SHOPPING IS GOING to be a whole day activity for all the family at Sunway Pyramid this
month thanks to the range of fantastic events and activities that are happening throughout the
mall in conjunction with the festive season.
A splendid Chinese Junk will be moored in the concourse and the deck will host a group of
performers bringing to life traditional Shanghai Tang dances, while a loud Lion Dance will take
place at the main entrance on 9 and 10 February at 2pm. Great activities to get involved with
include a Chinese Calligraphy workshop, a Sand Art workshop, and a Spring Flower Market
workshop (organized by Fleurs), while a spring flower fashion will also be held.
The mall’s mascots, Leona and Leo, will be making their rounds of the mall to spread some
festive cheer, and shoppers can even do their bit for those less fortunate by contributing to the
Food for Thought Food Bank, which is collecting non-perishable items as part of Sunway’s S.O.S.
Food for Thought campaign, in conjunction with Cold Storage, Kechara, and AEON. These goods
will be distributed to homes and organisations caring for single mothers, old folk, orphans, and
underprivileged children.
As if all these activities weren’t enough, restaurants and shops inside the mall are offering all
manner of discounts, offers, and promotions to tempt customers in through the doors this
month, so pick up some new clothes or treat yourself to a yummy meal for less!
For more details on all the exciting things planned for Chinese New Year at Sunway
Pyramid, visit www.sunway.com.my/pyramid or pick up a copy of TalkShop within the mall.
6+233,1*6(59,&(6
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M-1-7 Plaza Damas,
60 Jalan Sri Hartamas 1,
Sri Hartamas,
50480 Kuala Lumpur
THE EXPAT 93
This directory contains contact details for all restaurants, bars, shops, and other services which advertise with us.
RESTAURANTS
ASIAN/WESTERN
Albion
31 Jalan Berangan, 50200 KL.
Tel: 03.2141 9282
www.albionkl.com
Alexis Bangsar Baru
29 Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru
59100 KL. Tel: 03.2284 2880
Alexis Ampang
Lot 10 & 11, Great Eastern Mall
303 Jalan Ampang, 50450 KL.
Tel: 03.4260 2288
Alexis BSC
Lot 15A 1st floor,
Bangsar Shopping Centre,
Bukit Bandaraya 59100 KL.
Tel: 03.2287 1388
Alexis The Gardens
Lot f209 1st Floor, The Gardens
Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed
Putra, 59200 KL. Tel: 03.2287 2281
Aria
No. 44 & 44M, Plaza Damansara
Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit
Damansara. Tel: 03.2095 0016
Bubu Restaurant
No.42A, Tengkat Tong Shin, KL.
Tel: 03.2142 2988
www.bubukl.com.my
Citrus Cafe and Restaurant
Level 2, Bangsar Village II
Jalan Telawi 1, Bangsar Baru
59100 KL. Tel: 03.2287 9550
Chez Rose
6-5, Jalan Batai, Damansara
Heights, KL. Tel: 03.2092 1978
El Meson Restaurant
& Tapas Bar
No 61-63,
Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru,
Bangsar, KL, Malaysia.
Tel: 03.2282 8290
F Concept Dining By
Buffalo Kitchen
69-1, Jalan Telawi Tiga,
Bangsar Baru, KL.
Tel / Fax: 03.2201 1710
Facebook: ‘F’ by buffalo kitchens
Fitou Gourmet
Lot GF2, The Waterfront @ Park
City, 5, Persiaran Residen,
Desa Park City, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03.6280 8978
For reservation, please log in
www.fitougourmet.com/
reservations.htm or
call 03.6280 8978
Fresca Mexican Kitchen & Bar
Lot G-242A, Ground floor ,
The Gardens , MId Valley City,
59200 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 03.2201 2893
IR 1968 Indochine
Restaurant & Bar
1st Floor, 241-B, Lorong Nibong,
Off Jalan Ampang, KL.
Tel: 03.2141 3550
Jake’s Charbroil Steaks
Starhill Shopping Centre
LG11 Lower Ground Floor,
181 Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL.
Tel: 03.2148 1398
Medan Damansara
21 Jalan Setiapuspa, Medan
Damansara, KL.Tel: 03.2094 5677
www.jakes.com.my
Le Midi
Bangsar Shopping Centre
3Rd Floor 285, Jalan Maarof
59000 KL. Tel: 03.2094 1318
Riblee’s restaurant
Wisma CKL 41-1,
Jalan 23/70A, 50480,
Desa Sri Hartamas, KL.
Tel: 03.6201 0180
Social@Bangsar
57-59, Jln Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru,
KL. Tel: 03.2282 2260
Songket Restaurant
No. 29, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng
50450 KL. Tel: 03 2161 3331
Social@Changkat
22 Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL.
Tel: 03.2142 8260
The Meat Experts
G15 & 16, Hartamas Shopping
Centre, 60, Jln Sri Hartamas,
Sri Hartamas, Sri Hartamas, KL
Tel: 03.6205 2577 / 019.653 2843
www.themeatexperts.com
Twenty-One
20-1 Changkat Bukit Bintang
50200 KL. Tel: 03.2142 0021
Level 3, Bangsar Shopping Centre,
285 Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya
59000 KL. Tel: 03.2287 0021
BRITISH
SIDS Pub
Plaza Damansara 10-G, Jalan Setia
Medan 2, Damansara Heights,
50490, KL. Tel: 03.2094 7437
www.sidspubs.com
Terrace Arms
21G, PJU 5/21, The Strand,
Kota Damansara, PJ.
Tel: 03.6150 5277
The George and Dragon
Lot G130, Ground flr, Bangsar
Shopping Centre, KL.
Tel: 03.2287 8316
FRENCH
Mediteranean Restaurant
Le Midi Restaurant Sdn Bhd
Lot T3, 3rd Floor, East Wing,
Bangsar Shopping Centre, 285
Lorong Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya, KL.
Tel: 03.2094 1318
The Press Room
Lot G110 Grd Floor, Bangsar
Shopping Centre, Jalan Maarof.
Tel: 03.2095 8098
GERMAN
Bavarian Bierhaus
Restaurant & Bar (Non-Halal)
No.G 8, Ground Floor, Wisma Uoa
Ii, No.21, Jalan Pinang, KL.
Tel: 03.2166 7268
House Frankfurt
No. 12, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar
Baru, KL. Tel: 03.2284 1624
www.housefrankfurt.com
Weissbrau German Bistro & Bar
3.05.02 & C3.16.00, Level 3,
Pavilion KL. Tel: 03.2142 0288
ITALIAN
Espressamente illy
Pavilion KL- Lot 3.10.00 Level 3,
Pavilion KL. Tel: 03 2141 0028
Bangsar Village 1
Lot F 12 & 13A First Floor,
Bangsar Village 1, Bangsar Baru
Tel: 03.2287 7078
Web: www.gastrodome.com.my
Garibaldi Restaurant
LG 10 & G22 Bnagsar Village 1
Jalan Telawi Satu Bangsar Baru
59100 KL. Tel: 03.22823456/7
www.garibaldi.com.my
Jojo Restaurant
Lot NW01, Ground Floor,
Tropicana Golf + Country Club, KL.
Tel: 03.6203 5800
www.jojoitalianrestaurant.com
Leonardo’s Dining Room
& Wine Loft - No.61-1, Jalan
Bangkung, Bukit Bandaraya KL.
Tel: 03.2096 2226
Modesto’s
Lot G-02/03/03A, Ground Floor
Cap Square, 50100, KL.
Tel: 03.2697 4020
www.modestos.com.my
Opus Bistro
67, Jalan Bangkung, Bukit
Bandaraya Bangsar 59100 KL.
Tel: 03.2092 4288
Spasso Milano
347, Nihonkan Club, Jalan
Ampang, KL. Tel: 03.4252 7088
JAPANESE
Gyuchi Japaneses BBQ
Restaurant
No 3, Jalan 19/70A, Plaza Prisma
Ville, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480, KL
Tel: 03.6205 2233
http://www.gyuichi.com.my
Xenri D’Garden Terrace
Lot No. 2–04, Second Floor,
Podium Block of Menara Hap Seng,
Jalan P. Ramlee, KL.
Tel: 03.2078 6688
Xenri D’River View
No. 20, Wisma Elken, Jalan
1/147C, Batu 5, Jalan Kelang
Lama,KL. Tel: 03.77838118
Yoko’s Restaurant
36, Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL.
Tel: 03.2144 3378
SPANISH/LATIN/GREEK
Cava Restaurant No. 71, Jalan
Bangkung, Bukit Bandaraya, KL.
Tel: 03.2093 6637
La Bodega
14-16, Jln Telawi 2, Bangsar Baru,
KL. Tel: 03.2287 8318
La Bodega @ BSC
G109, Grd floor, Bangsar Shopping
Centre, Jln Maarof, KL.
Tel: 03.2287 2768
La Bodega @ Pavilion
Lot C3.06.00, Level 3,
Pavilion KL, Jln Bukit Bintang, KL.
Tel: 03.2148 8018
www.gastrodome.com.my
BARS & LOUNGE
LOUNGE
T Club No 8 Jalan Telawi 3,
BangsarBaru, KL. Tel: 03.2284 4003
CONFECTIONARY
Baajis - L 1-10, 1 Mont Kiara Mall,
No 1, Jalan Kiara, Mont Kiara,
50480 KL. Tel: 03.6211 0403
www.baajis.com
SHOPPING CENTRES
Great Eastern Mall
303 Jln Ampang, KL.
Customer Care: 03.4259 8090
Suria KLCC - Kuala Lumpur City
Centre Tel: 03.2382 2828
Tel: 03.2382 3326 Concierge
www.suriaklcc.com.my
Sunway Pyramid
Concierge Counter
Tel: 03.7492 9998 / 03.7494 3100
/ 03.7494 3101 / 03.7494 3102
JLN PJS 11/15, Bandar Sunway, PJ
SHOPS
AUTO SALES
City Motors Sdn Bhd
Lot 21 Jln Maarof, Bangsar KL.
Tel: 03.2283 3599
Mobile: 012.2013503 (Peter Fong)
Email: Peter@citymotors.com
(www.citymotors.com.my)
CARPETS
AbeeRugs
33-1 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, KL
Tel: 03 2161 1511
Mobile: +6012 2786 786
Toll Free: 1800 88 Rugs (7847)
www.abeerugs.com
Razi Gallery Lot 1.01 1st Floor,
The Ampwalk, 218, Jln Ampang,
KL. Tel: 03.2166 3775
Carpet-Inn
G-07, Grd Floor, Plaza Flamingo,
(Next to Flamingo Hotel)
Jalan Hulu Kelang, 68000 Ampang,
Selangor, Malaysia.
Tel: 03.4265 2788
Nasim Carpets
133 Jalan Maroof Bangsar
59100 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03.2093 8786 / 012.278 6786
Persian Collection
Desa Sri Hartamas
32-2 & 34-2, Jalan 25/70A
Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 KL.
Tel: 03.2300 6966
B.S.C
Lot S12, 2nd Floor, Bangsar
Shopping Centre, 59000 KL.
Tel: 03.2094 6966
1MK- L1-9,1st Floor, 1 Mont Kiara
Mall, No.1,Jalan Kiara 50480 K.L
Tel: 03.62059033
ARTS & CRAFTS
Art House Gallery - Lot 2.38-
2.43, 2nd Flr, Wisma Cosway, KL.
Tel: 03.2148 2283
FURNITURE & ANTIQUES
Carpet Inn / Rustic Instincts
G-26, Grd Floor, KL i-Design Centre
237-241, Jalan Ampang
50450 KL. Tel: 03.2145 6786
Courtyard - 1.07, 1st flr, The
Ampwalk, 218, Jln Ampang, KL.
Tel: 03.2163 2868
Eastern Charm
Lot 5, Level 2, Great Eastern Mall,
KL. Tel: 03.4253 4903
East Heritage
40 Jalan Dato Abu Bakar 16/1
46300 PJ. Tel: 03.7960 5820
www.eastheritage.com
Jonassen Collection
C-G02 Perdana Condo
Jalan PJU 8/1, Bandar Damansara
Perdana, Petaling Jaya Selangor.
Tel: 03.7726 6001
Web: www.jonassencollection.com
E: morten@jonassencollection.com
Kian Classic
Taman Tun Dr Ismail
Tel: 03.7710 0377
The Curve Tel: 03.7726 3771
Kota Damansara Tel: 03.5140 8771
Sunway Pyramid Tel: 03.5638 8772
Shah Alam (SACC Mall)
Tel: 03.5510 1177
Cheras Tel: 03.9132 1170
Kajang Tel: 03.8737 0117
Klang Tel: 03.3326 2770
Jusco Serdang Tel:03 8941 8771
Lasting Impressions
Petaling Jaya (Premier Gallery)
2 Jalan PJU 3/47, Sunway
Damansara, PJ. Tel: 03.7806 1379
2nd Floor, Bangsar Village II
2 Jln Telawi 1, Bangsar Baru, KL.
Tel: 03.2094 6495
Nile Valley Sdn Bhd
M-18, Mezzanine Floor,
Wisma UOA II, No.21 Jalan Pinang,
50450 KL. Tel: 03.2166 2657
Email: info@mynilevalley.com
www.mynilevalley.com
Scent of the Orient
39, Jln PJU8/5A, Bandar Damansara
Perdana, PJ. Tel: 03.7729 3628
Email: scent_orient@yahoo.com
Senasia Collection
233, Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya
Bangsar, 59000, KL, Malaysia.
Tel: 03.2202 3369 / 017.919 2533
E-mail: info@senasiacollection.com
www.senasiacollection.com
Tian Yi Fine Furnishings
G08A-1 Ground Floor, The
Ampwalk, 218, Jalan Ampang, KL.
Tel: 03.2161 5513
www.tianyi com.my
GROCERIES
Cold Storage
www.coldstorage.com.my
outlets
Klang Valley
Cold Storage, Great Eastern Mall
Cold Storage, Mutiara Damansara
Cold Storage, Mid Valley
Cold Storage, Solaris Mont Kiara
Cold Storage, Subang Parade
Cold Storage, Alamanda Putrajaya
Cold Storage, Bangsar Shopping Centre
Cold Storage, Suria KLCC
Cold Storage, The Mall
Cold Storage, Time Square
Cold Storage, Summit Mall
Cold Storage, One Utama
Cold Storage, Jaya One
Shopping Mall
Penang
Cold Storage, Island Plaza
Cold Storage, Gurney Plaza
Johor
Cold Storage, Plaza Pelangi
Ipoh
Cold Storage, Ipoh Parade
Cold Storage, Melaka Mall
West Malaysia
Cold Storage, Green Heights Kuching
HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS
Eurochef Malaysia
Unit P-1-21, Block P, Plaza Damas
60, Jln Sri Hartamas 1, KL.
Tel: 03.6201 8863
Email: sales@eurochef.com.my
www.eurochefasia.com
RETAIL
Seraya Era Sdn Bhd
(Pink Jambu)
A3-2-3A, No1, Jalan Dutamas 1,
Solaris Dutamas, 50480 KL.
Tel: 03.6207 9321/ 6211 3010
www.pinkjambu.com
WINE
Cronier Wines (M) Sdn Bhd
5-6 One Avenue, PJU 6A,
Jalan Masjid, Petaling Jaya
Selangor, Malaysia.
Tel: 03.7722 2252 / 4219
www.cronierwines-my.com
Sip Or Slurp
Bonanza Cafe Sdn Bhd
B-0- 7, Plaza Damas 3, 63, Jalan
Sri Hartamas 1, Taman Sri
Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03.6211 4386
SERVICES
AIRLINES
Oman Air Suite 9-03, 9th Floor
Menara Hap Seng Letter Box 55,
Jalan P Ramlee KL. Tel: 012.3239 418
www.omananair.com
ARTS/FRAMES
Aidea Art And Frame
1st Floor, Hock Choon Supermarket
241-1, Jalan Ampang 50450 KL.
Tel: 03.2144 3895
Art Accents / Art Archive Asia
No 2F-10, 2nd Floor, Bangsar
Village II, Jalan Telawi 1, Bangsar
Baru, KL. Tel: 03.2287 1908
Rustic Instincts - G-26, Ground
Floor, KL-i DC, (next to Hock
Choon Supermarket), 237-241
Jalan Ampang, 50450 KL.
Tel: 03.2145 6786
Talens Fine Art & Frames
34, Jln Tun Mohd Fuad 1, Tmn Tun
Dr Ismail, KL. Tel: 03.7727 9820
Winson Loh
Pinkguy Malaysia Art & Frame
Marc Service Residence A-G-02,
No.3 Jalan Pinang, KL City Centre
Tel: 03.2166 2166 / 019.319 9235
Email: pinkguymalaysia@yahoo.com
Website: www.winsonloh.com
BEAUTY/FITNESS
Chi Fitness
A1/01, Ground Floor, Block
Annexe, PJ Trade Centre, No 8,
Jln PJU 8/8A, Bandar Damansara
Perdana, Petaling Jaya selangor.(PJ)
Lot 1-01 & 1-02, BRDB Tower, 285,
Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya,
59000 Bangsar, K.L, Malaysia (BSC)
Tel: 603-2282 2366 (BSC)
www.chi-fitness.com
Tel: 03.7492 1023/3344 0171
(PJ trade centre)
Pialla Wellness
Desa Sri Hartamas
No. 2, 2-1 & 2-2, Jalan 30/70A,
Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 KL. Tel:
2300 1056/57, 2300 1055, 2300
2882
Outlets:
Desa Park City
FF-25, The Waterfront @ Park City
No. 5, Persiaran Residen, Desa
Park City.
Tel: 6280 8590/91
Uptown Damansara
No. 47B&C, Uptown 37, Jalan
SS21/37, Damansara Utama,
47400 Petaling Jaya.
Tel: 7724 1133, 7722 4332,
2143 1133
Marc Optic Gallery
F-238 First Floor,
The Gardens Malls
Mid Valley City, Lingakaran Syed
Putra 59200 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03.2283 6889
Nail Spa
E01-12, Wisma Sunrise, Plaza Mont
Kiara, Jalan Kiara 2, 50480 KL.
Tel: 03.6411 8588 www.nailspa.my
DENTAL
Teo & Partners Dental Surgery
2F-35, Bangsar Village II, 2, Jalan Telawi
Satu, Bangsar KL. Tel: 03.2283 1898
www.preciousmiledental.com.my
Bangsar Utama Dental
Specialist Center
12-1, Jalan Bangsar Utama 9, KL
Tel: 03.2282 4339
www.bangsardental.com
Bangsar Dental Specialist Centre
43-1, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru, KL.
Tel: 03.2282 6800
www.malaysiadentist.com
Solaris Dental Centre
K-01-12, Soho KL,Solaris Mont Kiara, No 2,
Jalan Solaris, 50480 KL. Tel: 03.6201 0111
www.solarisdentalcentre.com
HAIR CARE
Holistic Hair Care Sdn Bhd
Hartamas
38, Jalan 24/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, KL
Tel: 03.62058199 / 6205 8299
Puchong
53, Jalan Puteri 1/6, Bandar Puteri,
Puchong.
Tel: 03.8063 8899 / 8063 7518
Cheras
15, Jalan Manis 6, Taman Segar. Cheras,
KL. Tel: 03.9130 1899
HEALTHCARE/HOSPITAL
PMCC - International Sdn Bhd
Unit 17-3A, 3rd Mile Square 151,
Jalan Kelang Lama, Batu 3 1/2, 58100
KL. Tel: 012.248 3439
www.monikawyss.com
The Natural Health Practice
For appointments: 03.2094 1335
For inquiries: 012.637 7993
Add: Natural Harmony, 8-5,
Jalan Batai, Damansara Heights 50490
Kuala Lumpur.
Tropicana Medical Centre
11. Jalan Teknologi, Taman Sains
Selangor 1, Pju 5, Kota Damansara
47810 PJ. Tel: 03.6287 1111
www.tropicanamedicalcentre.vom
CAR RENTAL
Avis Rent A Car
Crowne Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur
Main Lobby, Jalan Sultan Ismail,
50250 KL.
Tel: 03.2144 4487 www.avis.com.my
Email: sales@avis.com.my
SK Travel & Car Hire (M)
Sdn Bhd 012-2065071 (Mr Sara)
COACHES
KL ODYSSEYDECK
Lot 1E, Shoplex at Mont’ Kiara,
15 Jalan Kiara 50480 KL.
Tel: 1 300 888 121
SINGAPORE ODYSSEYLOUNGE
214, Dunearn Road, Copthorne Orchid
Hotel, #01-09, Singapore 299526.
Tel: 1 800 639 7739
First Coach
No. 48, Jln Kemuja, Bangsar, KL.
Tel: 03.2287 3311
Lot C02B, Concourse Level,
KPMG Tower, 8 First Avenue, Bandar
Utama PJ. Tel: 03.77253311
AEROLINE LUXURY COACHES
B-5-8 Megan Avenue 1, 189 Jalan Tun
Razak KL. www.aeroline.com.my
DRINKING WATER
Sterling Pure Drinking Water
52 Jln 11/62A, Bandar Menjalara, KL.
Tel: 03.6274 7088
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS
Full list available at www.
internationaleducationmalaysia.com
FURNITURE RENTAL
Carpet-Inn
G-26, Ground Floor, KL-i DC,
(next to Hock Choon Supermarket),
237-241 Jalan Ampang, KL.
Tel: 03.2145 6786
Expats Furniture Rental
45, Jalan Maarof Bangsar KL
Tel: 03.2283 2088
M.K. Homes
Ampang Showroom:
15, Jln Persiaran Ampang Hilir,
Ampang, KL.Tel: 03.4256 7518
Bangsar Showroom:
126, Jln Maarof, Bangsar, KL.
Tel: 03.2092 1555
Office Tel: 03.6189 3331 / 6189 0801
www.mkhomes.com.my
Penang Showroom:
521D–08–01, The Cove, Jln Tanjung
Bungah, Tanjung Bungah, Penang.
Tel / Fax: 04.8902 987
Mobile: 016.4506 745
FURNITURE / ANTIQUE
Home Treasures
Publika Shopping Gallery
Lot 17,18 & 19, Lvl G3,
Publika Solaris Dutamas, No.1,
Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480, KL.
Tel: 03.6211 6828
1 Utama Shopping Centre
Lot OV 401, Oval Fourth Floor,
Bandar Utama 47800 Petaling Jaya.
Tel: 03.7725 9340
www.hometreasures.com.my
KINDERGARTEN / CHILDREN
Children’s Discovery House
Mont Kiara - Tel: 03.6204 0088
Bangsar - Tel: 03.2093 9592
Ampang - Tel: 012.205 6756
www.childrensdiscoveryhouse.com
Hils Learning Centre
No. 13-2 Jalan Solaris 4, Mont’Kiara KL.
Tel: 03.6203 0029 www.hilslearning.net
KL International Kids Club
16A, Jalan U thant, 55000, KL, Malaysia
Tel: 03.2141 2153
www.klkidsclub.com
Little Mandarin House
2, Jalan Limau Purut, Bangsar Park,
Bangsar KL. Tel: 03.2093 0069
229, Jalan Ara, Bangsar Baru, KL
Tel: 03.2287 00689
Summerfields Kindergarten
32, Jalan Sri Hartamas 15,Taman Sri
Hartamas, 50480 KL. Tel: 03.6201 2388
email: enquiry@summerfields.com.my
LANGUAGE SCHOOL
Applied Language Systems
Tel: 012.3391675 / 03.60383192
MAID EMPLOYMENT
Agensi Pekerjaan
Professional Services
No 62A, Jln SS 22/25, Damansara Jaya,
PJ. Tel: 03.7727 8093
SP-CM Agensi Pekerjaan Sdn Bhd
No 22, Jalan SS 3/6,Taman Sentosa,
47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Tel: 03.7875 2155
MOVERS/RELOCATIONS
Allied Pickfords
Tel: 03.6253 6553 (Kuala Lumpur)
Tel: 04.6464 278 (Penang)
www.alliedtoallied.com
Crown Line Expatriates Services
Lot 37645, Jalan 5/37A,
Taman Bukit Maluri Kepong, KL.
Tel: 03.6275 1830
Felix Relocations
No AR-3A, Megan Ambassy, 225 Jln
Ampang, 50450 KL. Tel: 1-300-88-5511
Inter Grace Movers (M) Sdn. Bhd.
Lot 116, Jalan Semangat, 46300 Petaling
Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
Tel: 03.7954 4908 (Hunting Line)
Email: move@intergrace.com.my
Royal Relocations
35, Kompleks Selayang, Batu Caves,
Selangor. Tel: 03.6120 8903
Writer Relocation
Unit A-22-5, 22nd Floor,
Menara UOA, Bangsar Tower A,
Jalan Bangsar Utama 1, 59000 KL.
Tel: 03.2202 2203
Email: writer.malaysia@writerrelocasia.com
www.relocasia.com
MUSIC SCHOOL
Musikhaus Enrichment Centre
(formerly known as Kidz Talent Lodge @
Ikano Power Centre) No. 80, Jalan PJU
7/12A, Mutiara Damansara,
Petaling Jaya. Tel: 03.7728 0834
www.musikhaus.com.my
Allegro Music & Arts
91B & C, Lorong Mamanda 1, Ampang
Point, Selangor. Tel: 03.4251 5780
www.allegromusic.info
PROPERTY AGENTS
Knight Frank
Suite 9.01, 9th Floor, Menara IGB, Mid
Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200,
KL, Malaysia. Tel: 03.2289 9688
Email: enquiry@my.knightfrank.com
Pen Properties
163-F-4 Jln Perak, Penang.
Tel: 04.210 6060
H/P: 016.414 8188
www.penang-property.com
Prestige Hill Sdn Bhd
B2-3A-2, Solaris Dutamas,
No.1 Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480 KL,
Malaysia. Tel: 03.6205 5988
www.prestige-hill.com
White Space International
Add: 1-3, Jalan Solaris 2, Solaris Mont
Kiara KL. Tel: 03.6209 9988
www.whitespaceinternational.com
Zerin Properties
36th floor, Menara Maxis KLCC, KL.
Tel: 03.6251 8007
Email: info@virtualrealty.com.my
PUBLICATION
The Wall Street Journal Asia
by Dow Jones www.wsj-asia.com
SALONS
A Cut Above Salons
Bangsar Shopping Centre, S128 2nd Flr,
Tel: 03.2094 9555
Bangsar Village II, 1F-32 1st Flr.
Tel: 03.2283 2233
Mid Valley Megamall, S054 & S055
2nd Flr.
Tel: 03.2938 3131
Sunway Pyramid, G1.110 Grd Floor.
Tel: 03.5635 2222
Parkson Pavilion, Level 4.
Tel: 03.2141 3232
Hairsalon Leonlouis Paris
A-0-1 Ground floor « La grande Kiara »
11 Jalan Duta Kiara, Mont Kiara
Tel: 03.6201 0506
leonlouisparis@gmail.com
Ish 46-1, Jln Telawi, Bangsar Baru, KL.
Tel: 03.22870920/1
Saw Hair Salon
Lot 401k, 4th Floor, Suria KLCC, 50088
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Tel: 03.2171 1881/1882
www.saw.com.my
SPAS
Danai Spa
103 Tanjung Bungah Park, Tanjung
Bungah, Penang. Tel: 04.899 0899
Donna Spa
S20–27, Pamper Level, Starhill Gallery,
181, Jln. Bukit Bintang 55100 KL.
Tel: 03.2141 8999 www.donnaspa.net
Hammam
Lot 3F-7 & 3F-8, Bangsar Village II, 2,
Jln Telawi 1, Bangsar Baru, KL.
Tel: 03.2282 2180
Email: info@hammambaths.com
Jati Spa
Novotel Hydro Majestic KL, Level 4,|
No. 2 Jln Kia Peng, KL.
Tel 03.2147 0888
(ext 7690) or 03.2161 2460
Ozmosis Health & Day Spa
Level 1, 14 –16 Jln Telawi 2,
Bangsar Baru, KL. Tel: 03.2287 0380
SPORTS
Cue Station
Lot 07-61, 7th Flr, Berjaya Times Square,
1, Jln Imbi, Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03.2144 3128
Pro Diver’s World (diving)
Coral View Island Resort
Daerah Besut Pulau Perhentian Besar
22300 Besut Terengganu Malaysia
Tel: 09.6911705
Mobile: 012.2632070
Email: dive@prodiversworld.com
www.prodiversworld.com
TO DISCOVER THE BEST OF
RESTAURANTS AND BARS IN
MALAYSIA VISIT
WWW.DINEMALAYSIA.COM
RESTAURANTS
SHOPS
BARS
SERVICES
F OR S H OP S A N D S E RV I C E S
T H AT W E L C O M E E X PAT S ,
G O T O W W W.
EXPATGOMALAYSIA.
COM AND CLICK ON
DIRECT ORIES
TAILOR
Lord’s Tailor
Lot1.10 & 1.11, 1st Floor,
The Ampwalk (Ampang Walk).
218, Jalan Ampang,
50450, Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03.2166 0918,
2166 1918F18 & F19, 1st Floor,
Bangsar Shopping Centre,
Jalan Maarof, 59100 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03.2094 9776
TRAVEL
Mitra Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Lot G-01, Menara Park, Megan Avenue II
No: 12 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, 50450 KL.
Tours: 03.2161 1311
Reservation & Ticketing: 03.2161 2133
Email: info@mitra.travel
Website: www.mitra.travel
Orient Escape Travel Sdn. Bhd.
Bangsar Shopping Center, Travel Outlet,
Lot F114B, West Wing.
Tel: 03.2282 8891
www.orientescape.com.my
THE EXPAT 95
bulletin board
EXPE E
A E
A A E
A TE
I
T
E
G
E
.T
.
A
.
E
W
.
Interested applicants should send their resume to
nd
a ison at sales thee pat roup com or call
nne on
bulletin board
A Top Realtor
Specializing in the Expat Market
Wendy Lian has spent more than 13 years traveling
the world and living in major global cities as an expat.
She truly understands the stress, frustrations and
hardship one faces in a foreign country. Now back in
her own country, Wendy has built a premier
reputation within the expat community, representing
quality properties in Kuala Lumpur, Damansara
Heights, Bangsar and Mont Kiara.
Whatever you are looking for, whether it is your
dream home or your ideal investment opportunity,
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cswlian gmail.com
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THE EXPAT 9
See you next month!
What’s in a Name?
Edward Lewis Brockman, the British Chief
Secretary (1911-1920) and the man who
spearheaded the Town Planning Committee
that was responsible for beginning to
develop infrastructure within KL.
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Colonial Secretary of the Straits
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High Commissioner in Malaya in the
early 1900s.
JALAN DATO ONN
Driving past the Tunku Abdul Rahman
memorial takes you along Jalan Dato Onn,
which is now named for the country’s
third prime minister. Its first name was
actually Brockman Road as a nod to Sir
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JALAN TUN ISMAIL
Driving towards the Putra World
Trade Centre will take your car along
a road that carries the name of Tun Dr
Ismail Abdul Rahman, a politician who
held various posts, including Deputy
Prime Minister under Tun Abdul Razak,
and was praised for his reaction to the
race riots of 1969. The road used to be
named Maxwell Road after Sir William
Edward Maxwell, a gentleman who held
various posts in Malaya and founded
Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut) in 1884. His
name lives on in his book, A Manual of
the Malay Language (1888).
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The lengthy Jalan Cenderasari, which joins
the Butterfly Park to the main road, used to
have three separate names; part of it was
called Hospital Road in reference to the
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Masjid Jamek
BUILDING
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LAKE GARDEN
AM
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J. LIMAU PULUH
B ES A R
56
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JALAN
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JA
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LA
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SA
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PARLIAMENT
HOUSE
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JALAN PERDANA
The road winding through
the Lake Gardens now takes its
name from the aforementioned lake
(Perdana), but it originally commemorated
Alfred R. Venning, a gentleman who
served as the first Chairman of the Sanitary
Board and proposed the idea of a public
gardens. Venning Road was his testament
within the gardens he envisioned, and he
was also responsible for the city’s first golf
course.
J. LIMAU
J.
ME
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KEDAH
J. LIMAU
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PARL
31
J. YAP AH SH
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RAJA
JALAN RAJA
BOT
Bandar
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JALAN
MEDAN TUANKU
BANK
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JALAN
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Bank Negara
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U
A
ARAN LED
I
63
Sultan Ismail
57
JA
LA
N
RU
GEMILANG
J. C E
R SI
PE
SR
23
ME
HA
MA
J. C
H AN
GK
AT
UN
KU
J.
TUNKU
N
JA L
PUTRA
HAJI TAIB
J. SULTAN
A
JALAN
KU
TUNKU
KIT
ABDUL
N
IS
TUN
JA
LA N
J.
T
TION
JA
TUN
A
JAL
TUNKU
IL
MA
JALAN
J. CH
OW
RAJA
Putra
IL
MA
KA
T
A
LAU
L. HANG JEBAT
IS
PWTC
TAM
BOOSA
MY
TU
N
61
JALAN
LO
RO
NG
JALA
N P
UTR
S
AIL
ISM
KU
L. R
AJA
21
46
G N
AM
TU
LIKU TUN
U
CHANG
N
LA
JALAN TRAVERS
The mighty road that takes drivers
from the Hilton KL to the end
of Jalan Maarof takes its
current name from
Dr. Ernest Aston
Otho Travers, who
worked as the
State Surgeon
of Selangor
from 1891-97.
The former
name was
Damansara
Road, so
called after
the nearby
Damansara
River, but
Travers was
deemed more
worthy after
his admirable
reform of leprosy
treatment in
Selangor during his
time in Malaya.
CHOW KIT
A
TU N
KU
K
IAN TUN
26
N
U
NK
IT
BUK
IT
ME
JL
I
N
TINGG
DUTA 2
ONG
LO R
JALAN
BUKIT
TUNKU
RA
N
TU
JALAN SULTAN SALAHUDDIN
This major road connects Jalan
Parlimen to Jalan Tun Ismail and
takes its current name from
the Sultan of Selangor who
reigned over Malaysia
from 1999 until his
TAMAN
DUTA
death in 2001. Back in
1960, however, this
stretch of tarmac was
named Swettenham
Road after Sir Frank
Swettenham, who
served as the First
Resident General
of the country
(1896-1901) and is
credited with having
made KL the capital of
administration
and setting up the
KL-Klang railway.
E
DL
GR
N
LA
PERS
IA
JALAN BUK
JA
PE
J.
T
nearby Tanglin Hospital, part was named
Tanglin Road (for obvious reasons), while
a final section was named Young Road.
Sir Arthur Henderson Young, who gave
his name to the third section of the road,
served as
T
RS
IA
JALAN TUN RAZAK
This mighty artery of the city was always
envisaged as a route to loop KL and hence
its original name was Jalan Pekeliling
or Circular Road. Its modern name is in
honour of Tun Abdul Razak, the second
Prime Minister of Malaysia.
JA
JALAN
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