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March 2016
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AROUND ASIA
THAILAND TATLER
CELEBRATING WOMEN
CREATIVE TALES The stories of inspirational figures fill this month’s pages of our regional editions
HONG KONG TATLER
THE ART OF THE MATTER
MACAU TATLER
SHANGLIU TATLER
PERFECT POP
YOUNG AT ART
his issue revels in the coming spring’s promise of renewal, growth, warmth and colour. No one better personifies this energy than one of the world’s favourite celebrities, Madonna. Known for her constant reinvention as a performer, Ms Ciccone talks about freedom and family, sex and sexism—and how to constantly stir up controversy.
Young art collectors Lin Han and his wife, Wanwan Lei, are on the cover of the Art Issue. Elsewhere, Colombian artist Fernando Botero (pictured), who held his first exhibition in Mainland China last year, tells how he has kept his passion for art alive over his 65-year career.
Entrepreneur and bon vivant David Tang has been a collector and good friend of Tracey Emin for many years. Tang interviews the controversial British artist ahead of her debut Hong Kong exhibition this month and the pair share the cover of the art issue. Elsewhere is an investigation into the state of public art in Hong Kong and an interview with architect William Lim. INDONESIA TATLER PHILIPPINE TATLER
HIGH ON STYLE In the fashion issue, 10 of society’s most elegant women share their secrets on how to build a personal sense of style. Six veteran fashion designers also discuss the differences between the fashion scene of the 1980s and ’90s and the present.
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LAW AND ORDER Nadia Saphira (pictured) tells how she left acting and modelling to become a lawyer. She now works at Lucas SH & Partners in Jakarta. Elsewhere, Enrina Diah, founder of Ultimo Aesthetic & Dental Centre, and her daughter Alyssa Vania sample some of the dishes at Jakarta eatery Pesto Autentico.
TAIWAN TATLER
CITY LIVING Distinguished Taiwanese figures, including painters Chen Huei-tong and daughter Chen Hsiang-yin (pictured), give their insights into the southern city of Tainan by introducing their favourite restaurants and scenic spots. On the cover is Sandy Wang Jui-yu, the founder and chairwoman of Formosa Biomedical Technology Corporation.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
IMAGES: GETTY IMAGES LIVE NATION; HERI B HERYANTO (NADIA SAPHIRA); CLIVELAN LU (CHEN HUEI-TONG & CHEN HSIANG-YIN); JACQUE CHONG (FERNANDO BOTERO); JERMAINE FRANCIS (TRACEY EMIN & DAVID TANG)
This issue marks International Women’s Day by highlighting the lives of four women who have made names for themselves in sport. Nualphan Lamsam, chairwoman of Thailand’s Port Football Club, graces the cover. Her story—and those of Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul, Nunthinee Tanner and Pariyakorn Ratanasuban—is told inside.
M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
MARCH L I F E . E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
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FEATURES 168 A Beauty and Her Faith A desire to engage with other young women inspired Amira Geneid to launch her beauty start-up, Zahara
180 Wonder Women Four women talk about the dynamics of female leadership and their personal definition of success
190 Out of Africa Forget the tired old stereotypes attached to Africa. The continent’s artists have long engaged in a sophisticated visual dialogue that is finally receiving the international attention it richly deserves
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180 malaysia tatler . march 2016 . vol 294 . no 318
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CONTENTS
76 CHIRPY BADGE
CONCIERGE 42 Inbox Wei-Ling Contemporary is pleased to present ‘The Kings of Wishful Thinking’ by one of Malaysia’s finest artists
46 Small Talk Indian classical dancer, choreographer and founder of Sutra Foundation, Datuk Ramli Ibrahim talks about his latest odissi production
48 The Social Network World Kidney Day is happening this month, which has got us thinking about the importance of the organs in our bodies
50 Hot Ticket Legendary reggae band UB40 is set to give fans a grooving good time
52 What’s On March packs a punch with a myriad of activities, making sure that there is something for everyone
54 Feast Complement your meal with some of the best wines in town, offered by these sophisticated dining venues
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The parrot is one of the animal motifs used in the whimsical and colourful Paradiso range by DeGem
FACES 58 Soiree Two awesome birthday bashes and a charity gala dinner in aid of children in need of heart surgery
68 Leading Ladies Three ladies embrace the print spirit with classy dresses and accessories
70 Close-Up We get up-close with Datin Annie Chin and Ryan Loo who share about their passion and dedication
76 The Invitation The union of Kelly Roza Zahanor and Sazahan Mohd Yassin
80 It Girl Datin Dian Lee dresses to enhance her confidence level
88 Onlooker The who, what and where of society malaysia tatler . march 2016
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CONTENTS
158 146 122 STYLE 118 Dare to Be Different Not worrying about what others think, Marisa Soraya Mazlan pairs her Givenchy jumper with Jeffrey Campbell shoes and a Fendi clutch
122 Spring is in the Air Flirty, feminine dresses make for effortless looks as the winter thaws and the new season arrives
128 Brave New World The spring/summer 2016 runway shows of some of the top fashion houses are all about drawing inspiration from the past
142 Radiance Unleashed Ishimatsu Takayuki of Clé de Peau Beauté reveals the secret behind the brand’s new skincare range
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WATCHES & JEWELLERY 148 In the Peak of Progress Montblanc takes the mission of sharing its passion of fine watchmaking very seriously. Alexander Schmiedt talks about the brand’s untiring pursuit of excellence in its product creation and innovation
150 Evolving with Style Pierre Rainero gets serious when it comes to the subject of fostering a culture of creativity and productivity among the artisans and talents at Cartier
154 Pure Lineage Louis Vuitton celebrates the art of travel by bringing its fifth high jewellery collection on a grand tour around the world DENIM MODE
158 The Masterpieces Be amazed by the pieces and artistry behind jewellery and watchmaking with this stunning selection of museumworthy creations
It’s time to don the denim again
malaysia tatler . march 2016
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CONTENTS
ASK FOR EXTRA
200 Chivas Regal has created the Extra, carrying no age statement yet retaining all the hallmarks of the label
208 LIFE 200 Food Recently opened Beauty and the Beast at Plaza Batai delights with tantalising food and creative cocktails
206 Spirits Master blender Colin Scott spills the beans on what makes the Chivas Regal Extra a significant chapter for the brand
208 Design André Fu, Maison & Objet Asia’s Designer of the Year tells of a life ruled by form and function since childhood
212 Wealth If you want to score big returns and look fabulous at the same time, the answer may be close at hand
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214 The Great Escape Wake up next to a masterpiece at one of the world’s finest art hotels
DEPARTMENTS Around Asia 12 Editor’s Note 30 Behind the Scenes 32 Contributors 34 MalaysiaTatler.com 36 The Great Debate 38 The Last Word 216 malaysia tatler . march 2016
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Sebas tien Lamunièr e
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L I F E . E X T R AO R D I NA RY
Managing Editor
Elizabeth Soong
Editorial mytedit@edipressemedia.com
Sub Editor Features Editor Senior Writer Writers Tatler Homes, Associate Editor Contributors
Aaron Pereira Lily Ong Sangeeta Devi, Tien Chew Bryna Kaur, Tasha Lim Tan Xi Voon James Suckling, Sean Li, Asih Jenie, Justine Lee, Melissa Twigg, George Hopkin Urumila Thanalingam Tunku Dara Naquiah
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malaysia tatler . march 2016
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EDITOR’S NOTE
AN ODE TO WOMEN The beauty of women have been the inspiration behind many works of art, from plays to paintings and even jewellery designs—all have celebrated women, and rightly so!
Who Wears the Skirt?
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EDITOR’S PICK
The Body Shop’s new body care range, Spa of the World, works to relax both the body and mind. Consisting of sensorial oils, refining scrubs, lovely baths and decadent creams, they give your skin a luxurious treat, leaving it conditioned and feeling great!
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n each and every episode of Madam Secretary, the secretary of state, Elizabeth McCord (played to perfection by Téa Leoni) made hard and fast decisions to negotiate global and domestic issues daily. She is one of the most powerful women in Washington, but still faces the challenge of balancing a demanding career with family life—something most women can relate to (well maybe not Washington, but their own households.) And she does this with equal parts grace, dedication and innate toughness, partly thanks to her solid familial support system. Women with high ranked positions in government are becoming more common; as of 2015, there are 18 female world leaders and even a lobby to elect the first woman secretarygeneral of the UN. However, women get a lot of flack in politics when they are passionate about a cause (Téa Leoni’s words, not mine). “When a man in politics is passionate about something, he’s committed. When a woman is passionate in politics, she’s emotional.” Unfortunately, women in public life, or holding leadership roles, still face criticism and are subject to scrutiny in ways that men never are. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has been mocked for wearing the same style of suit, albeit in different colours; also, former Australian prime
minister Julia Gillard has once been humiliated and branded ‘deliberately barren’ for not having children. Yes, there’s definitely a lot more to be done for gender equality, which according to the World Economic Forum wouldn’t manifest until 2133—a hundred over years from now! In conjunction with International Women’s Day on March 8, Malaysia Tatler is doing its part in honouring women in this issue. Our feature on female leadership, has four women who share on their personal definitions of success, views on gender equality and thoughts on male and female leadership (Wonder Women, p.180). One of the women interviewed, Datin Linda Ngiam finds that women work really hard and rely to a great extent on their intuition, whereas men try to find a quicker, smarter way to achieve results. Do you agree with her? On the cover is rising entrepreneur Amira Geneid, who imbued her business with a bigger purpose—empowerment through faith and beauty (p.168). Plus the lovely Datin Annie ChinLim, who excels as the fundraising ambassador for the Women’s Centre for Change (p.72). I hope these stories will inspire you, just as it did for us. See you next month! —Elizabeth Soong Managing Editor malaysia tatler . march 2016
BEHIND THE SCENES
MALAYSIA TATLER MARCH 2016 PHOTOGRAPHY tian xing HAIR kay tuan from centro hair salon MAKEUP irena adam
Gritty Pretty Capturing the charisma of inspiring women is our mission this month, which we achieved during our photo shoot with cover girl Amira Geneid
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ecked in a flowing button-down blouse and comfy pants, Amira Geneid was effusively charming, when we arrived at her family’s private residence for the first leg of our cover shoot. Being the perfect hostess, Amira arranged for meals for our team—nasi lemak for breakfast and shawarma for lunch—although she stuck to no-carbs for herself, as part of her wedding diet plans. As we discussed the direction of the photo shoot over breakfast, Amira relaxed when she learnt that we only wanted her to look like herself, albeit a more glam version, throughout the pictorial. “You have to tell me what to do. Posing is not my strongest suit,” said the shy, young entrepreneur. She contradicted herself by nailing a sultry pose while reclining on the sofa for our photographer Tian Xing. Seeing her in action, we think posing might be an innate skill
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of hers, aside from her entrepreneurial talents and flair for singing. Midway through lunch, Amira’s fiancé Cameron Priest arrived on-set, after a delayed flight from Singapore, to join her for the last two sets of our shoot. Our cover girl’s eyes lit up with happiness when he walked into the residence, carrying a small briefcase and a suit bag. Our team eventually packed our things and headed to Espressamente Illy in Pavilion KL for our shot of the couple. We left the pair to their own devices as we took pictures of them from a distance in a bid to capture the unique bond they share, as depicted in our cover story this month (see p.168).
ON THE VANITY
Our makeup artist used products from Amira’s beauty brand, Zahara, such as eyeliners, nail polishes and matte lip glosses
malaysia tatleer . march 2016
CONTRIBUTORS
ZAMRI ZAINOL This skilled makeup artist from Lancôme lends his hand in our women’s feature story What’s your happiest memory? When I got offered to be a makeup artist by Lancôme in 1997 and when I adopted my son. What always makes you laugh? My son’s cheekiness and unique character. Who is your favourite actor currently? My favourite is Lupita Nyong’o because I admire her exotic beauty and her natural style. If you could choose a super power, what would it be? I would want magic hands, to be a superhero makeup artist that can transform any look into something outstanding.
IRENA ADAM KENNETH PAUL CHEE A leading stylist from A Cut Above, he works his magic in our women’s feature this month What’s your happiest memory? My quiet and peaceful getaway to New Zealand with my family. What’s the worst holiday you’ve ever had? My trip to London, because it was raining most of the time. Who would you most like to be stuck in a lift with? I would like being stuck in the lift with Bradley Cooper. What’s your biggest weakness? I would not be able to accept the loss of any of my family members.
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KAY TUAN See how this hairstylist from Centro Hair Salon brought out the best from our cover star’s tresses What’s your favourite joke? I simply love any kind of dirty joke. What’s your biggest fear? Snakes creep me out the most! If you could choose a super power what would it be? I would want to be able to turn stones into gold. What’s the weirdest compliment you’ve ever received? “You look more like an actor than a hairstylist.”
This professional makeup artist who owns Studiobeauty flaunts her creative work through our cover story What always makes you laugh? The little silly things that my kids do. What’s the worst holiday you’ve ever had? A trip to Krabi, where I had a terrible case of food poisoning. It was so bad—I can’t tell you any more. What’s your biggest weakness? I love to eat but I’m too lazy to exercise. Which painting would you most like to hang in your house? My own masterpieces.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
M A L AYS I A TAT L E R . C O M
HIGHLIGHTS M A R C H
O N L I N E
E X C L U S I V E S
ONLINE FEATURES Collector’s Series: Ross Hamilton’s Model Trains Once upon a time, trains were the masters of speed that connected people and places. Ross Hamilton gives us an insider look to his collection of rail models built to scale and in immaculate likeness of his favourite train station in the UK from when he was a little boy.
DINING Gordon Ramsay: Food, family and the F-word He’s one of the world’s most widely recognised chefs and the owner of 26 restaurants across four continents. Asia Tatler meets the famously foulmouthed Gordon Ramsay to talk about his latest Asian venture.
First Krug Chef ’s Table in Malaysia Enfin by James Won has been selected as the home to Asia’s first Krug Chef ’s Table, one out of only six in the world. We got a taste of what it’s like in the posh private room that is dedicated to all things Krug.
VIDEOS The 4Cs of Dior’s Dioressence stilettos
CRAFTED PASSIONS Gordon Ramsay; the new Dioressence stiletto; Ross Hamilton with his model trains
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Akin to rating diamonds, Dior’s new Dioressence stilettos stand out with their own 4 Cs—composition, construction, command and colour. Watch how the shoes are made for a clearer picture of the work that goes into each pair.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
The stone of life and love “Hardly any other gem can inspire such emotional vibrations as does the ruby. Among most peoples, it has symbolized since time immemorial the highest of earthly possessions – love.” Eduard Josef Gübelin (1913– 2005)
6.95 ct oval Burmese ruby Exclusively at Starhill Gallery UG 31 Adorn Floor T: +603 2141 9669 www.gubelin.com
Lucerne Zurich Basel Berne St. Moritz Geneva Lugano Kuala Lumpur Hong Kong
THE GREAT DEBATE
Should access to the Internet be restricted for young children? YES
NO
DATIN SALMAH SHANAZ
DATO’ NG KAH MING
I am of
the opinion that access to the Internet ought to be restricted for children because young minors are extremely malleable and have not yet formed their own ideas of what is right and what is wrong. They don’t understand the concept of danger. Because of their young age and innocent nature, they are more vulnerable and open to being cyber bullied, having their identities stolen, preyed on by online predators and other such dangerous scams. This could not only destroy their futures but may put them in physical harm too. However, this is not to say that children shouldn’t use the Internet. I believe that with proper parental or adult supervision, the dangers associated with the Internet for this age group can be mitigated. We cannot ignore the many benefits that these children can gain from using a tool like the world wide web. If used properly, the Internet can stimulate their minds and also be a fun and interactive way of learning!
Datin Salmah Shanaz holds a masters degree in healthcare management from the University of Swansea. A devoted and loving mother of three, she is a voracious reader who enjoys travelling.
I am the proud father of two teenagers and consequently, because of their age it is much too late to limit their access to the Internet—imagine the tantrums! I can only hope to lead by example and provide them with gainful distraction. Thinking back on their childhood, I would say that their mother and I did not completely restrict their access to the Internet, as we believe that the Internet is a wonderful tool for learning and the broadening of one’s horizons without even needing to leave the comfort of one’s home. However, we most definitely made sure that we guided our children through their use of this technology and were on hand to answer any questions they had. While the Internet is a wonderful tool, I made sure to dedicate a lot of my time to making sure that my sons learnt how to use social media responsibly and that they were properly protected from online predators and bullies. Now the elder Felix uses his techsavviness to compose his music!
Dato’ Ng Kah Ming is an engineer turned harpsichordist-conductor-musicologist who straddles academia and entertainment with soldout concerts and symposiums around the world.
Should Internet access be restricted for children? Sound off on Malaysia Tatler’s Facebook page
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malaysia tatler . march 2016
M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
CONCIERGE This month’s must-do list
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INBOX
SMALL TALK
HOT TICKET
WHAT’S ON W
Wei-Ling Contemporaryy reveals the work of one of Malaysia’s finest artists
Datuk Ramli Ibrahim on his odissi production, which is back by popular demand
THE SOCIAL NETWORK
If you’re a fan of pop reggae, don’t miss out on catching UB40 on their Malaysian tour
F From new movies to o races, we feature a medley of varying events this month e
In conjunction with World Kidney Day, we ask aboutt organ donation
THE GANJAM EXPERIENCE Inspired by the cultural-rich district of southern Odisha, the Ganjam odissi production embodies ingenious creativity and artfulness
CONCIERGE | INBOX
IN THE DIARY
MYTH, MAGIC AND MUSIC Dvorák’s symphonic poem The Noon Witch brings to life a chilling tale, a Czech folklore. The crowning touch will be Brahms’ magnificent First Symphony, one of the finest Firsts ever composed and which promises listeners a magical experience. Held on March 20th by the MPYO. POETRY OF SIGHT A series of ‘small things’ brought together to evoke thoughts and feelings
A ROYAL PORTRAYAL Wei-Ling Contemporary is pleased to present ‘The Kings of Wishful Thinking’ by one of Malaysia’s finest artists, Anurendra Jegadeva
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he idea for The Kings of Wishful Thinking was realised when a collector friend of Anurendra Jegadeva showed him a rare RM50 note with an error—the iconic image of Tuanku Abdul Rahman was missing. In its place was a ghostly white silhouette of the Agung’s bust instead of the grand portrait that has become synonymous with wealth and prosperity. The portrait of Tuanku Abdul Rahman has always conveyed the nobility of Malaysian leadership and as such, the
erroneous banknote with its absent monarch struck a chord with the artist. In his latest exhibition, Jegadeva has juxtaposed portraits of everyday Malaysians— the Nasi Lemak seller, the young Nationalist, the Hindu priest, the opera singer, the schoolgirl, the blushing bride—against the backdrop of our Ringgit, as if in conversation with The Ruler of the Land. The intended result is to portray the sitters as interacting with Tuanku, conveying to him the political, economic and social anxieties that we as Malaysians have about our future.
ASIAN ENERGY The Offshore Technology Conference Asia 2016 is where professionals in the field meet to exchange thoughts with the hopes of advancing scientific and technical knowledge for offshore resources and environmental matters. The exhibition will be held from March 22 to 25 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. ICE CAPERS Disney On Ice presents the Magical Ice Festival. The event will be a magical showcase of beloved Disney characters as Disney On Ice brings this winsome wonderland to Penang this month! Happening from March 26 to 27 at the Spice Arena.
LIVE. LAUGH. LOVE. PJ Live Arts bring you cackles of laughter with an awesome line-up at Malaysia’s original stand-up comedy open mic night Showcasing up-and-coming comedians as well as experienced raconteurs testing out new material, One Mic Stand is an intimate and casual platform for the development of this vibrant and dynamic art form. Hosted by Brian Tan,
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Keren Bala Devan and Prakash Daniel, Selangor’s only comedy room is now in its 4th year and continues to present the purest ‘raw’ comedy you’ll ever experience. According to fellow comedian Brian, “Our comedy careers
were born with the creation of One Mic Stand, so it’s a real honour to now be in a position to bring forth the next generation of comedians.” Catch the show and support our Malaysian comedians, on Tuesdays at 9pm.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
CONCIERGE | INBOX
RUMOUR MILL
THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT
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ormer malaysian prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah made time in their busy schedules to lend their support to the inaugural Tesco Malaysia Charity Gala Dinner—a pet project of Dato’ Azlam Shah Alias and his colleagues at Tesco Malaysia—to raise funds for the company’s newest charitable initiative, the Tabung Jalinan Budi Children’s Fund. During the dinner, a live auction was held and up for grabs were a luxury cruise holiday and a private dinner at Marini’s on 57 with music maestros Sean Ghazi and Ida Mariana. The dinner and its live auction exceeded all expectations and raised RM1 million for the children.
Leaning In
Tying in to our girl power theme this month, we would like to congratulate the group CEO of Country Heights Malaysia, Dianna Lee, for winning the inaugural 2016 Asian Women Leadership Award. The mother of two is the only Malaysian recognised alongside other Asian women leaders like Hong Kong’s Pansy Ho and Thailand’s Chadatip Chutrakul.
CRASH AND BURN Recent news of a luxury car crash has turned into juicy buzz. Society’s busybodies were quick to dig into the social media account of the young woman involved in the crash and uncover the secret relationship between herself and the car’s rich driver.
BETRAYAL A socialite was mortified when a few members of her private entourage disclosed to a gossip magazine the cost of her beauty regiment, which includes a group of stylists, nutritionists and ‘beauty consultants’ who see to her aesthetics.
HUNGRY FOR ATTENTION A separated prominent couple have yet to sign their divorce papers, but the husband’s mistress is already claiming her ‘rights’. She tried to drive a wedge between her man and his adult children, and also insisted that people call her Datin!
Erratum
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WEIGHT MATTERS The number in kilograms of Kobe beef tenderloin served at a private wedding dinner. The figure is only a miniscule fraction of how much money the bride’s parents paid for it.
In the coverage on A Stellar Milestone (Feb 2016, page 60) the guest next to Puan Sri Molly Low is Dato’ Sri Mahamad Fathil Mahmood and not Tan Sri Low Keng Huat. We apologise for the error and any grievances caused by it.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
CONCIERGE | SMALL TALK
ODISSI GURU Indian classical dancer, choreographer and founder of Sutra Foundation, Datuk Ramli Ibrahim talks to Sangeeta Devi about his latest odissi production—‘Ganjam’
Datuk Ramli Ibrahim believes that good theatre can be appreciated by all despite the different cultural backgrounds
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o datuk ramli ibrahim, dance is not just a profession but a calling. After receiving formal dance training when he was just a teenager, he went on to cultivate the art of Indian classical dance in Malaysia and has been doing so for the past three decades. Can you explain a little more about what an odissi is compared to other forms of Indian classical dance? Odissi originates from Odisha, a state located in Eastern India. It is one of the eight Indian classical dance styles recognised in India. As dance, like music, is practised as part of a ritual for worship, it grew and evolved with temple related activities. Archaeological evidence in Odisha suggests that its origin dates back to more than 2,000 years ago. Technically, it is characterised by the chowka (the square placement of legs and hands) and the thribhanga (the three deflections of the head,
His odissi production titled Ganjam, is back by popular demand and features new dance compositions commissioned by Sutra to Guru Gajendra Panda. The production will premiere from March 23 to 27 at Menara DBKL 1 and will make its way around the world during its Malaysian and international tour. torso and hip) positions, which set the odissi apart from the rest of the other Indian classical styles. What inspired you to base this odissi around the cultural-rich district of Ganjam? I have been going to the Ganjam district (South Odisha) for some time now. Two of my strong collaborators—Guru Gajendra Panda and Dr Dinanath Pathy—are from Ganjam. Because of them, I am familiar with the theatre forms and the district. When I first experienced Ganjam, I felt a sense of déjà vu. The region reminded me of some villages in Bali, which I have seen. Of course, I found out later that they are similar. How would you describe Ganjam, the odissi production and what makes it different from your other productions? Ganjam is one of our most complex productions. Its content and context are not the typically posed Indian dance. The works are
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an integration of dance and choreography with a compelling and sophisticated collage of various other dramatic and theatrical elements. What were some of the challenges when producing this odissi? As Ganjam was a commissioned production, we had to start from the beginning. There were the artistic challenges of commissioning the music, costumes, training the dancers, and lighting. I was lucky that the collaborative key leaders of Ganjam were on the same bandwidth as me. What do you expect viewers to take away from this production? Ganjam is not only a beautiful production but a great MalaysiaIndia bilateral cultural statement. This is something that Malaysians should be proud of. It will also premier in New Delhi and in the Ganjam district next month. Viewers should find it to be an awe-inspiring odissi.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
IMAGES: SUTRA FOUNDATION
CULTIVATING CULTURE
CONCIERGE | SOCIAL NETWORK
HEALTH IS OUR WEALTH World Kidney Day happens this month and it has got us thinking about the importance of the organs in our bodies. This March we ask, who would you donate an organ to, and why?
SNAP SHOTS
WEDNDU
Datin Winnie Loo I would definitely donate an organ to my loved ones, should the need arise. Obviously the suitability and compatibility is also of importance, but I would be willing to donate because I want them to be able to live a life free from suffering, and if my organ can help save their lives, it would be very meaningful.
/LNH
&RPPHQW
#nye #cityhall #sanfrancisco
Datin Nora Abu Hassan I would donate an organ to anyone that deserves to be saved. Be it woman, man or child. I truly believe that there should not be any distinction when it comes to who we should donate to. Why do I choose to donate? Simply because people need these life saving gifts in order for them to live a full life.
Tengku Bakar Abdullah “Happy Holidays!!”
Mark k Choo I would ddonate my bone marrow to kids with leukaemiia, who have their whole lives ahead of them. Onn a more personal level, I would donate part oof myy liiver to immediate family, whom I love very much as a I would want to help them recover. m
HO\QDHIIHQGL
S eena Teo She Whille I’m still alive, I would consider donating to Wh famiily. They are more likely to share the same tissuue type and blood group, reducing the risk off the body rejecting the organ. To me, organ d donation is very personal yet public; ideally a decision made after being fully informed.
/LNH
&RPPHQW
#guesswho #ilovejapan
Elyna Effendi “Hope you have had a fantastic start to 2016 everyone… from Japan, in Geisha style!!”
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malaysia tatler . march 2016
CONCIERGE | HOT TICKET
LET’S GROOVE Legendary reggae band UB40 is set to give fans a grooving good time
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ritain’s greatest reggae band, and one of the world’s most commercially successful bands of all time, UB40 is set to take the stage in Malaysia for an exclusive show this month. The fourtime Grammy Award nominee first made their breakthrough with the release of their hit single Red, Red, Wine, which topped the British singles chart and peaked at number one in America. Other popular songs by the band include I Got You Babe, Rat in the Kitchen and Can’t Help Falling in Love, which topped the US pop chart for seven consecutive weeks. The band’s original line-up lasted for 30 years, from their formation in 1978 until frontman Ali Campbell’s departure in 2008. Two other founding members, Mickey Virtue and Astro, then left before reuniting with Campbell to form UB40 Reunited. Brought to fans by The Livescape Group, UB40 Live in Malaysia featuring Ali Campbell, Mickey Virtue and Astro will see the band perform their hit songs as well as new songs from their latest album, at KL Live on March 30 at 8pm. Log on to galactix.asia/ub40liveinmalaysia and ticketpro.com.my to purchase your tickets.
REGGAE NIGHTS British band UB40 is set to play their greatest hits in Malaysia
SYMPHONY AND RHAPSODY A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM On a midsummer’s night, four young lovers find themselves wrapped in the mischievous arms of an enchanted forest where sprites lurk and fairies rule. Carrying the necessary props and costumes on just four bicycles, the HandleBards will play all 21 characters in an all-male production which will take on games of fantasy, love and dreams in Shakespeare’s most beguiling comedy at PJ Live Arts from February 28 till March 13.
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The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra will be conducted by Carlos Kalmar accompanied by flutist Adam Walker in concerts featuring works such as Sibelius’s dark Symphony No.1, Liszt’s dashing Hungarian Rhapsody No.1 and Nielsen’s Flute Concerto. Happening from March 26 to 27, get your tickets through mpo.com.my.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
CONCIERGE | WHAT’S ON
mar 4
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March packs a punch with a myriad of activities, making sure that there is something for everyone
GREASE THE MUSICAL Happening at the Theatre Lounge Café until March 6, participants from the SPB-Dama Young Artistss Programme invites you to relive the romance of Danny and Sandy. For bookings call 03-6730 7982
THE SAM WILLOWS LIVE IN MALAYSIA Livescape Group presents the Singapore pop band known for their catchy tunes. You can get your tickets at galactix.asia/ thesamwillows
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THE VULVETTES Catch vocal powerhouse trio Elvira Arul, BihZhu and Junji Delfino as they honour classic and contemporary female vocalists and composers in conjunction with International Women’s Week. Happening until March 10, tickets can be bought via tix.my
FACON EDUCATION FAIR Taking place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre for two days, the largest education fair in the region returns to provide school leavers with the necessary information on universities and colleges. faconedufair.com
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11 RATATOUILLE IN CONCERT Until March 12, enjoy Disney Pixar’s Ratatouille, enhanced by Michael Giacchino’s exhilarating score performed live by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra. mpo.com.my
SPARTAN RACE Run, climb, crawl across outdoor terrains, splash through mud and overcome obstacles at this year’s Spartan Race. The challenge consists of a 13km run with 20 obstacles and is open to participants aged 14 and above. Register at spartanrace.my
25 BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE Directed by Zack Snyder, the movie is one of this year’s most anticipated superhero flicks, which will hit cinemas this March. Be sure not to miss it!
PARIS
MELBOURNE
HONG KONG
DUBAI
MARCH 1–9
MARCH 17–20
MARCH 24–26
MARCH 26
Look into the future at Fashion Week as top brands, including Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior, show their autumnwinter 2016/17 ready-to-wear collections. modeaparis.com
F1 teams head Down Under for the 20th anniversary of the Australian Grand Prix, which this year features the inaugural FMX Grand Prix, at Albert Park. grandprix.com.au
Asia’s leading international arts festival, Art Basel in Hong Kong, puts the city at the heart of the international art scene with displays by the world’s leading galleries. artbasel.com
Don’t miss the biggest event of the horse racing season, the Dubai World Cup. Its US$10 million purse makes it the richest race in the world. dubaiworldcup.com
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CONCIERGE | FEAST
WINE & DINE Complement your meal with some of the best wines in town, offered by these sophisticated dining venues
REFINED BITES MEZZE BISTRO
This wine bar offers an impressive wine list of over 200 labels. Pair your selection with Mezze’s divine dishes including gourmet pizzas and the finest cheese from various regions of Spain and France. mezze.my
OPULENT APPEAL ONE SIX FIVE
IVIV (One Six Five) lounge and bar in Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur is another perfect haven for wine enthusiasts to explore a wide range of wines, made by true artisans. intercontinental-kl.com.my
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ELEGANT ENCLAVE CLARET
As one of Kuala Lumpur’s most elegant wine bars, Claret at The Troika boasts a curated list of wines from France and all around the world. Featuring lofty metropolitan ceilings, soft lighting and pleasing views of the city skyline, the bar itself is just as fine as the
wines served. If you’re having a hard time deciding on which delicious wine to savour, the knowledgeable staff at Claret would be more than happy to help. Accompany your chosen drink with dishes like the cured meats platter, gourmet bruschetta or freshly baked pizzas. troikaskydining.com
4 FRENCH FINESSE LAFITE
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Located in Shangri-La Hottell Kuala Lumpur, this luxurious French restaurant is not short of exquisite wines to be paired with dishes such as the wagyu beef with truffle reduction. shangri-la.com
ROYAL VINEYARD VINA DEL REY
A variety of wines from Argentina, Chile, New Zealand and more can be found at this quaint wine bar located in Nexus, Bangsar South. Pair wines with what’s on the menu, or enjoy it on its own. The name of the bar translates to ‘Vineyard of the Kings’ in Spanish. Tel: 03-2242 2878 malaysia tatler . march 2016
CHARITABLE ENDEAVOUR The National Historic Dance Company gave a wonderful performance at the Imperial Charity Gala Dinner
FACES M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
The people, the parties and the events
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SOIREE
LEADING LADIES
CLOSE-UP
THE INVITATION
IT GIRL
ONLOOKER
Datin Dian Lee evokes a sense of confidence through her outfits
Check out all the action at the funfilled events in and around town
Two great birthday celebrations and a charitable gala dinner
Three lovely ladies stun in glamorous print ensembles
Datin Annie Chin and Ryan Loo share about their dedication
The wedding of Kelly Roza and Sazahan Yassin
ance Historical D The National formance was per Company’s hlights that night ig h e th f o one
Paul Tan
Chan Mo Lin, Florence Fang Dato’ Rosemarie Wee Grazia Iannarelli
Martha and Dr Marco Faria Correa
Che Puan Amelia Thripura Henderson
SOIREE | FACES
Datin Penny and Dato’ Kevin Yong Nino Graziano Luca
Dato’ Yap Teiong Choon and Datin Barbara Yap
Ciao Bella! ITALIAN IMPERIAL CHARITY GALA DINNER As the night descended on the bustling Kuala Lumpur cityscape, an atypical soiree was well underway in the grand ballroom of Shangri-La Hotel. Together with the National Historical Dance Company, Dato’ Rosemarie Wee and Florence Fang once again joined forces with Grazia Iannarelli in order to aid five children in need of heart surgery at Gleneagles Hospital. Flying all the way from Italy, the dance company simulated what it was like to attend a magnificent grand ball set during the 19th century. Throughout the night they performed many dance and musical interpretations, exciting guests with a mix of classical numbers that ranged from lively, energetic dances to more romantic ones. Regular faces in society the likes of Puan Sri Molly Low, Dato’ Sri Farah Khan, Dato’ Simon Foong and Dato’ Yap Teiong Choon were among the numerous charitable hearts present for the one-of-a-kind event. Guest Johari Abas admirably took to the stage to offer his voice to entertain guests with a few songs to help raise additional funds, bringing the total amount of money raised to RM248,000. Dato’ Simon and Datin Mina Foong
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FACES | SOIREE
Flying all the way from Italy, the dance company complemented the atmosphere of a magnificent grand ball set in the 19th century
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Naliny Lim, Yong Mei Fong, Yong Mei Ling and Alya Hamid
resen ues were p Mock cheq ipients c to the aid re
Dexter Foong Datin Natalie Lim Dato’ Sri Farah Khan
Datin Alissa Fitri and Dato’ Nancy Yeoh
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Eugene Choong
malaysia tatler . march 2016
FACES | SOIREE
Karis Abas and Delphine Bondu
Meera Sen, Wani M Noor, and Datin Sabrena Dani THE INSIDER
Opera singer Paola Sanguinetti gave a riveting performance and guest Johari Abas took to the stage to raise additional funds for the charity
Dato’ Jaime Chan Abdullah and Datin YM Ding
Datin Chai Schnyder
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Torrice Diana and Beppe Melis
malaysia tatler . march 2016
Tan Sri Razman Hashim performed a number with the band
Ray-Men Chua
d Datin Su Day
Dato’ Steve an
Natasha and Melissa Hashim
Liyana Taff
Edwin and Elna Yang
Erin Adlina and Alesha Nazrin
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malaysia tatler . march 2016
SOIREE | FACES
Hafez Hashim and Dato’ Seri Azmin Ali
Puan Sri Latiffah Kamaruddin HRH Sult
an Shara
fuddin Id
ris Shah
Royal Flush THE SULTAN OF SELANGOR’S 70TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Tan Sri Razman Hashim and Puan Sri Latiffah Kamaruddin’s annual dinner party to celebrate the Sultan of Selangor’s birthday was certainly not short of memorable and joyous moments. Held at the couple’s private residence, the intimate event was graced by many of the Sultan’s close friends including HRH Sultan Nazrin Shah of Perak together with his consort Tuanku Zara Salim. Upon entering the residence, HRH Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah greeted guests with a smile and a handshake before joining the crowd to catch up with his friends. Later, guests were treated to a delicious buffet dinner while being entertained by a live band. Before the cake-cutting ceremony, Tan Sri Razman Hashim gave a short speech: “I don’t know whether you saw the pictures upstairs. It showed Tuanku cutting his birthday cake from the year 2002 right up to last year. If you notice the pictures, he hasn’t changed. He looks very much the same. Maybe a little grey hair, but otherwise very much the same.” The band played the ‘Happy Birthday’ song as the beloved sultan was invited to cut the tiered birthday cake created especially for him.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
HRH Sultan Nazrin Shah and Tuanku Zara Salim
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FACES | SOIREE
Surprise, Surprise KEITH FOO’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Family and friends were decked out in the evening’s theme of black and gold, gathered at Mezza9, Publika in honour of Keith Foo’s 33rd birthday. Guests were animatedly chatting, sipping on wine and champagne while awaiting the birthday boy. The candle-lit tables were decorated with golden balloons and framed photographs of Keith, adding a personal touch to the whole affair. Attendees took turns striking cheeky poses in front of the shimmering silver photo wall—each image was printed out twice, with guests receiving one copy and the other being pasted into a special photo album for Keith in remembrance of his special night. When Keith arrived at the venue, he was greeted with cheers and a rousing chorus of “happy birthday!” Shocked but clearly ecstatic, he thanked everyone for coming to celebrate this special day with him and his lovely wife, Kim Raymond, who organised the entire event. One of the highlights of the evening was the cutting of the birthday cake, a delicious two-tiered black and gold creation by Kek & Co which was devoured quickly by guests while old-school R&B tunes filled the air that night.
Dato’ Jeffrey and Datin Joyce Raymond Priscilla Tan
Kim Raymond and Keith Foo
THE INSIDER
The flavour of the birthday cake was butter cream—Keith’s favourite
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Alia Bastamam and Firras Sabbah
Marisha Lakhiani
Angelyn Raymond
Anita Foo and Foo Kia Suan
Farah Mior and Shareen Ramli
malaysia tatler . march 2016
Megat AlďŹ e and Johan Shah
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FACES | LEADING LADIES
Print Friendly Printed fashion can often be rather bold, therefore avoid over-accessorising to keep the focus on the garment
Datin Jennifer Hon
Datin Joanna Low
ALBERT KING
A classy ring by Poh Kong works flawlessly with a bold dress like Datin Jennifer’s
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VALENTINO With a stunningly gorgeous gown, Datin Joanna keeps her bag small yet significant. This one from Braun Büffel would make a cool statement
Isabel Lim
MATTHEW WILLIAMSON Isabel looks effortlessly chic by keeping it simple. All you need is a necklace like this one from Chanel, which is subtle and elegant
malaysia tatler . march 2016
CLOSE-UP | FACES
Castles on the Ground Building a hotel brand from scratch is no easy feat, yet Ryan Loo and his company have managed to marry an ingenious idea with a sustainable goal, writes Tien Chew
PHOTOGRAPHY: MORVEN KOH
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onjuring up something in your head and constructing something in the physical world are two very different acts, yet they are intrinsically bound together as the latter cannot come to fruition without the former. “I believe in dreamers. Everything in this world is created at least twice, the first time in your imagination and the second in reality. The more I dream, the more I can feel it and the more I am able to do it,” says Ryan Loo, a mechatronics engineering graduate eager to make his mark in the world. “Our entire Container Hotel was pretty much built upon a dream,” he adds. For those unfamiliar, the Container Hotel is an exciting and young hotel that started in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, two and the half years ago, with Ryan serving as CEO of the company that runs the business. Its aim is simple and refreshing, to contribute to society by melding an artistic concept and the value of sustainability into the hospitality industry. Inspired by the Japanese concept of Kyosho Jutaku—to live in style using very little space—he and his team used renewable materials gelled with modern styling, to give the locale a distinctive yet cosy personality. The result lies exactly in the given name, using recycled shipping containers as a means to ‘store’ humans, thus providing guests with a whimsical and charming hotel experience. The establishment has a variety of rooms, some with and without an en suite bathroom. There’s the Concrete room, a hallowed out tube outfitted with a comfortable bed fit for two and an AC unit to keep cool. Backpackers can opt for the Camp Site room, featuring indoor camping, while those wishing for something more private can
choose the aptly named Container or more lux Container Suite room that comes with a private bathroom, TV and all the essentials. “The idea of building a hotel came about first of all because it was an industry that we liked, secondly, it was a business model that is able to create a sustainable and recurring income, and thirdly, it was to satisfy our interest in architecture and art that can be shared,” Loo reveals on the purpose behind starting the Container Hotel Group. Another motivation was to make an impact in the field through showcasing the possibilities of using sustainable materials, with hopes to inspire others to incorporate more environmentally conscious concepts into their properties. Not content with just building one hotel, the company has expanded its operations to KLIA 2 with the Capsule by Container Hotel, which is a casual sleeping environment built in the style of the popularised Japanese capsule hotel concept but instead with containers. The container hotel’s expansion plans are well underway, with a growing presence—already in Ipoh and Penang, Melaka and Kota Kinabalu are areas that are of interest to Loo and his team, who also have their sights going beyond the local market and onto international soil. As an engineer, especially one as diverse as mechatronics, which is a combination of system, mechanical, electrical, telecommunications, control and computer engineering, productivity is a quality that satisfies his innate entrepreneurial spirit. “My dad always shares with us this lesson. Regardless of how far you go or how successful you become, it is more important to be productive. Don’t waste your day, and utilise it well,” says Loo. For him, a constructive day is a successful day.
“Everything in this world is created at least twice, the first time in your imagination and the second in reality”
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CLOSE-UP | FACES
Woman on a Mission Women’s Centre for Change fundraising ambassador, Datin Annie Chin, shares with Sangeeta Devi the reason behind her dedication to the non-profit organisation
ART DIRECTION: SYAHLIA ALBINA SARI; PHOTOGRAPHY: SEAN WONG; HAIR: ANITA TANG FROM A CUT ABOVE; MAKEUP: KAREN LEONG FROM LANCÔME MALAYSIA; JEWELLERY: ELEGANCE CLUB
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’m like a durian, you either like me or you don’t,” joked the candid Datin Annie Chin who strongly believes in staying true to oneself instead of saying things just to please someone. Chin’s genuine persona and steadfast determination has worked to her advantage, allowing her to excel in her role as the fundraising ambassador for the Women’s Centre for Change (WCC) in Penang. Established in 1985, the non-profit organisation, which is on the noble mission to end violence against women and children, was set up when a group of concerned individuals in Penang realised that most women experiencing domestic violence had no place to go to for help. After coming across a WCC ad in the local paper where it was announced that volunteers were needed, Chin decided to help out. At first, a few members of the organisation were sceptical and assumed that she wouldn’t volunteer for very long, but she proved them wrong. Being a mother of three with five grandchildren, Chin is passionate about the cause and was determined to aid the organisation in achieving its mission. Eager to help, she came in every Wednesday without fail. From answering telephones to creating charts for the organisation’s talks at schools, no job was too small for her. WCC was impressed with her level of commitment and asked if she would like to take up their counselling course, so that she could counsel women and children who are experiencing abuse. “I said okay, I’ll give it a try. I had to do homework and write about whatever was taught, then I had to hand in whatever I learnt the week before,” Chin shared about her experience during the intense six-month counselling course. The course is done professionally and there are even lecturers from Singapore and various other universities, malaysia tatler . march 2016
who come in to give talks on how to counsel victims of abuse. After six months, Chin became a qualified counsellor and was ready to offer support to those in need of it. At WCC, there are different forms of counselling. Face-to-face counselling welcomes drop-ins on weekdays from 9am to 6pm and the counselling can be carried out in Malay, English, Mandarin, Hokkien or Tamil. Telephone counselling is also available to those who are unable to come in to the office while e-counselling is another option offered to those who prefer communicating through email. “But normally we don’t like to entertain over the phone because we’re counsellors and we need to see you. With face-to-face counselling, we can also sort of know whether you’re telling the truth,” Chin revealed. Besides counselling, WCC also assists in liaising with other government agencies such as hospitals, welfare departments and even the police to follow up on certain cases. Other services may extend to assisting in seeking financial assistance, organising school transfers for children and sourcing for new jobs or suitable accommodation. “There was one case where a four-year-old girl was sexually abused at her kindergarten. The preschool was owned by a lady, and her husband was supposed to be there to help… he instead raped the young girl and threatened to push her down the stairs if she told anyone,” Chin revealed details of a heartbreaking case which was also reported in the newspapers. “The grandmother was the one looking after her, and she felt so bad that something that terrible happened to her. She didn’t know what to do and reported it to the police. But the report kept going missing at the police station. I don’t know how she heard about us, but we helped her write letters to the police and to the education department. We were
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FACES | CLOSE-UP
“I always believe that if you have the ability and the means to do it, you should help. Sometimes, it doesn’t even have to be money, it could be your time or influence”
persistent and eventually the guy was brought in for questioning and later sentenced to jail,” Chin continued the story. She tells us that while the case was ongoing, WCC counselled the child because she was traumatised. Her grandparents and parents were also extremely distressed by the whole situation, so everyone needed counselling. Besides offering counselling and legal advice to women in crisis, WCC also provides a safe and temporary shelter for abused women and their children. The shelter gives the women some peace of mind as they decide what to do next. “Only one or two people know the location of the shelter, and even I don’t know where it is,” Chin says, explaining
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that the shelter location is kept a secret to protect the women who stay there. If found by their partners, they may even be killed. In addition to offering a safe haven for women and children, WCC trains prosecutors and magistrates nationwide on victim’s right’s in court. Chin also tells us that community outreach and awareness is another important area of WCC’s work. Every year, the nonprofit organisation successfully reaches out to thousands of students through interactive personal safety and youth programmes that educate kids about their rights. Taking into consideration the number of services and advocacy work offered as well as the cost of new shelters, it is crucial for WCC to receive continuous funding. “Before I joined, not many people knew about us, as the organisation wanted to keep a low profile,” Chin says. At the time when WCC was organising one of its annual anniversary fundraisers, Chin suggested on having a dinner where tables were sold at higher prices. “I decided to help because I have a lot of friends who always support me. Even if they don’t know what I’m doing, if I ask them for money they’ll trust me. They’re very supportive, plus they get tax exemptions,” she shares before revealing that they managed to raise RM180,000 more than the usual amount normally raised. Chin was later made the WCC fundraising ambassador, making her in charge of promoting the organisation to the public and bringing in donations. “I always believe that if you have the ability and the means to do it, you should help. Sometimes people have the means but not the ability. But I do because I know a lot of people,” stated Datin Annie Chin on why she is passionate about charity and giving back to society. “Sometimes, it doesn’t even have to be money, it could be your time or influence,” she adds. According to her, WCC is always in need of volunteers and anyone is welcome to help. However, for those who do not have the time to volunteer, they can help by donating to WCC via bank transfer or at any fundraising event. @ malaysia tatler . march 2016
THE INVITATION | FACES
Datin Sri Zahida Yusof and Tengku Dato’ Sri Kamarulzaman
Arlyn Aveline, Intan Rowena Baker and Ling Lagenda
Destined Union Kelly Roza and Sazahan Yassin celebrate their nuptials in a beautiful wedding reception that will be remembered for years to come
Tan Sri Zahanor Ahmad
WEDDING RECEPTION OF KELLY ROZA ZAHANOR AND SAZAHAN MOHD YASSIN WHEN 15 November 2015 WHERE Sime Darby Convention Centre DID YOU KNOW Sazahan initially planned a proposal in London, but didn’t make it in time as Kelly was leaving for Malaysia. He tried again two weeks later—he picked her up in the brand new car he bought her and officially put the ring on her finger
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ocial media is a powerful tool and it was this unexpected medium that brought Kelly Roza and Sazahan Yassin together. As fate would have it, the couple reconnected on Facebook after not being in touch for years… and the rest is history. Kelly—who normally lends her voice to commercials, jingles and product videos for major brands—was the quintessential traditional bride on her wedding day. She looked stunning in a classic lace and tulle wedding gown designed by Alia Bastamam, with the look complemented by gorgeous emerald and diamond jewellery from Jaipore Jewels. The groom looked just as good, donning a tuxedo from Bespoked by Ian Chang. The wedding reception began with the couple walking down the aisle, led by the saxophonist who played their song At Last by Etta James. According to the newlyweds, it was one of their most memorable moments during the wedding. After the merenjis ceremony, sultry jazz singer Poova Plachciak entertained guests with a sensational singing performance. This was followed by a speech from the bride’s cousin, Ameera Natasha. “Being around Kelly makes you feel lively, like you want to laugh all the time,” she tells guests. She also revealed that Kelly has always believed in the phrase ‘everything happens for a reason’, which is exactly what happened between her and Sazahan.
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FACES | THE INVITATION
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Rajesh Singh and Dr Kiran Sidhu
Azura Sulaiman
ad kir Moham Yassin Pa h Johan a y and Roha
“I valued every detail of the ceremony and the age-old conventions that accompany the big day,” Kelly shared with us, adding that there was no skimping on trimmings. From the classic white wedge wood, blue and gold stationery set presented in an envelope and handwritten by a calligrapher, down to the white cake adorned with delicate lace designs and sugared flowers, she had to ensure it was all in check. “I’m a bit, okay a lot of a perfectionist,” Kelly laughingly reveals. Her hard work paid off as the decor at the wedding reception was simply spectacular.
Mark Varricchio and Puteri Nurul Nadirah Zaharudin
THE INSIDER
Friends and family flew in from Singapore, Sarawak and Indonesia to attend the wedding
Tan Sri Mohd Yunus Tasi and Tengku Elena Kamarulzaman
Siti Mariam
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Shonda Yap and Michael Tan
Edlin Ahmad Johan and Nabilla Yasin
Wong Hsu-Sheng, Faye Tan, Helen Tan and Bob Tan
Nisrin Nadzmi N d Ro Roy Faiz and Nigel Spykerman, Mazlim Husin and Adli Dahalan
Ameera Natasha Moore
Muhaini Mahmud
Andrew and Benjamin Latchford
FACES | IT GIRL
Evocative Style For Datin Dian Lee, it’s not about labels, but the emotions that an outfit evokes—giving a boost in confidence or making one feel extra special
NASTY GAL
MUM AT HEART
A dedicated and loving mum, Datin Dian Lee wears this diamond bracelet designed by local jeweller Graffiti Angel which features her children’s names
ANTONIO A N BERARDI ALAIA
CHANEL
SHOES SHOES SHOES
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PRONOVIAS malaysia tatler . march 2016
LANCÔME SPECIAL
A NEW HORIZON FOR SKIN REGENERATION Inspired by The Rose, Lancôme unlocks the secret to youthful beauty and flawless skin with this new revitalising power
ma m a la l a yyss iia a ta att llee r . m o on n tth h y eea ar ar
LANCÔME SPECIAL
Absolue, luxurious beauty à la française A gem of a cream from the Absolue Precious Cells range, Absolue Revitalizing Care Silky Cream is a rose freeze distillate which offers a triple strategy solution to healthy skin, Ághting chronic inÂammation and oxidation while encouraging regeneration.
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LANCÔME SPECIAL
The Absolue Revitalizing Care Silky Cream provide skin cells nourishment, resulting in healthy skin that glows, and has a Áne, silky texture. The rose freeze distillate accelerates skin regeneration and repair processes without compromising the quality of the epidermis. Skin is nurtured, replenished and left divinely hydrated and radiant. SigniÁcant improvement can be noticed after 4 weeks. Absolue Revitalizing Care Silky Cream is priced at RM915. Complement it with the rest of the products in the Absolue range.
FACES | ONLOOKER Mandy Man and Gregory Ling
Diyanah Zaki, Hanif Zaki and Nizam Mokhtar
Anna Ayuda and Jose Perez
ren Teh
ai and Ka
Olivia Ch
Anzalna Nasir Datin Nik Ariza and Datuk Ricky Abbas
THE INSIDER
The Happy Diamond collection features freely moving diamonds swirling and dancing in various motifs, inspired by the sparkling drops of water from a waterfall
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Because You’re Happy CHOPARD COCKTAIL SOIREE Chopard KLCC hosted an intimate cocktail party for a select group of privileged guests in recognition of their devoted support to the brand. The brand showcased exquisite jewellery pieces and watches from its most iconic and suitably named collection for the occasion, Happy Diamonds. More than 40 guests explored new and earlier design styles from this collection.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
Leng Goh Hooi vin la S l u and Pa
FACES | ONLOOKER
Scents of Wonder OPENING OF JO MALONE LONDON, SURIA KLCC
Lim Ai San, Sarah Lian and Kristine Goh
Guests were invited to celebrate the opening of the Jo Malone London boutique in Suria KLCC. After picking out their favourite scents, from the wide selection available, attendees were treated to a fragrant pampering session using their good smelling picks. During the delightful afternoon event, guests were also given the opportunity to take fun photos at the photo booth.
Carla Soong and Joseph Lim
John Teo and Dennis Lau
Colin Lim
THE INSIDER
We hear that the Lime Basil & Mandarin fragrance is a favourite of Paul Slavin’s Pamela Chong getting a relaxing hand massage Dato’ Kok Yul Shin
Juita Jalil
Dato’ Yasmin Yusuff and Peter Lum Vanessa Chong
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FACES | ONLOOKER Ziling Lim and Dato’ Kuek Boon Haw
rath and Deepa Chat on o h Tay Liam K
Angie Ng
Datin Annie and Datuk Benjamin Reynauld
Jason Tham, Azleen AJ Macleen and Dato’ Muhammad Baharuddin Mustafa
Dirk Paulsen and Ivan Tshai
Show and Tell AN EXCLUSIVE PATEK PHILIPPE EXHIBITION Cortina Watch Malaysia and Patek Philippe hosted a private viewing of the latter’s 22 Baselword novelties for 80 of their VIP guests. This was a special treat for watch aficionados as they got to view all the pieces in a single space. Held in conjunction with the unveiling of the new Patek Philippe corner at the Cortina Watch Starhill Gallery boutique, the event saw an exciting performance by violinist Josh Kua.
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THE INSIDER
Once you step into the boutique, you will notice a magnificent chandelier on the ceiling— made especially by Baccarat for Patek Philippe
Josh Kua
malaysia tatler . march 2016
FACES | ONLOOKER
Light of a Million UNITY. ASEAN LANTERN & MUSIC SHOW The Unity. Asean Lantern & Music Show is a showcase of giant lanterns (some over five storeys tall) from Asean countries including Malaysia, China, South Korea, Japan and India. Held at Mines Wellness City, the night shone brighter as one million ‘light bulbs’ blazed to life in a grand light show. Visitors had a treat for all five senses, as there was also a music festival with musical fountains and cultural performances as well as a food fiesta.
Datuk Jared Lim, Datin Dian Lee and Dianna Lee e Tan Sri Le
Kim Yew
Diani Lee
Aravind Sinniah and Sandeep Grewal
THE INSIDER
There was a surprise birthday celebration for HRH Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who was also invited to officiate the event Irene Tan and Eunice Tan Puan Sri Susan Cheah
Herman Prayitno
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FACES | ONLOOKER Dato’ Kok Yul Shin, Lim Ai Chiin and Angela Chee
Nicole Goh and Jayden Lewis a, a Babkin Datin Olg ra Azlan s Tengku A us Goh th n ia D d an
Datin Esmila Saruji
Tengku Dato’ Suriana Salim and Puteri Aerina Fatima
Floral Atelier GRAND LAUNCH OF MAISON DES ROSES
THE INSIDER
A lucky draw was also part of the itinerary, and the winner walked home with a resplendent box of roses Karina Milavina and Che Puan Anna Baris
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Maison des Roses was officially introduced to a handful of VIP guests and members of the media in an intimate preview. Founded by three visionary ladies—Tengku Asra Azlan, Dianthus Goh and Datin Olga Babkina—with a shared love for fresh, beautiful flowers, Maison des Roses has become a popular gifting brand, known for its luxurious floral arrangements. It first made its debut in early 2015 through social media site Instagram (@maisondesroses.kl).
malaysia tatler . march 2016
FACES | ONLOOKER
Around the World G BALL 2016
Harith Iskander and Michael Hanratty
G Hotel hosted its biggest thank-you party as a token of appreciation to its corporate clients. The extravagant evening boasted a sumptuous six-course dinner along with a free flow of drinks. The night was made exciting with live performances by various artistes, including a stand-up comedy set by Harith Iskander, and a lucky draw with prizes worth up to RM78,000.
Angie Kam and Stuart Grieve
Pamela Khoo and Michelle Chee
Lim Hui Yen
igheimer Scott Boed oh L and Phillis
THE INSIDER
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True to the night’s theme, ‘Around the World’, the centre of the ballroom was designed as an airplane runway, and each table had globe-shaped flowers
Michael Gascoigne, Nicole Gascoigne, Tamara Parini, Martin Bigg and Stephen Wee
malaysia tatler . march 2016
FACES | ONLOOKER
Syafinaz Selam at and Amber C hia
Sim Pei Yi, Clara Goh, Elann Ng and Lara Rowena
Danielle Graham
Meera Sen
Fashion Triumph
THE INSIDER
Timothy Thng
FENDI COCKTAIL PARTY Luxury fashion brand Fendi threw a chic cocktail party at its boutique in Suria KLCC for a handful of its VIP guests. Attendees got a preview of Fendi’s new ‘ID-ea’ capsule collection, which plays around with the light bulb motif. DJ Irama was also seen spinning live tunes, entertaining everyone throughout the event.
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Ariza Zainal and Oleen Jasmine Hussain
Elizabeth Hew
The fun atmosphere was complemented by a Morelli’s gelato stand that served delicious frozen treats to those present
FACES | ONLOOKER Bernie Chan
Fashion’s Finest THE BIG TEN The Islamic Fashion Festival recently celebrated its 10th anniversary at Le Meridien, Kuala Lumpur. Held under the royal patronage of HRH Tuanku Najihah and in aid of the Tuanku Najihah Foundation, the event was made merry with fashion shows and live performances by local artistes.
Alinna Fitri, Puan Sri Atikah Abdullah and Toh Puan Rozana
THE INSIDER
Models strutted down the catwalk, showing off the latest collections by designers who took part in the Islamic Fashion Festival
Antoine Bakhache Lorna Mohd Ali and Tok Puan Ruhani Ismail Rebecca Lai
Tunku Datin Rafidah and Nasreen Khan
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FACES | ONLOOKER
THE INSIDER
The King of Comedy, Harith Iskander had everyone in stitches with his performance that evening
Joseph Wong, Shen-Tel Lee, Bobby Ting and Dato’ Richard Curtis
ar Abang Datuk Am man Zohar h Abdul Ra
Alex Ting and Alice Thye
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Kevin Choo and Jee Chun Fah
Rewarding Endeavour THE SHEDA ANNUAL DINNER AND EXCELLENCE AWARDS
John Yong Lock Ping
Over 800 guests were treated to an opulent and glamorous night at the Borneo Convention Centre, in Kuching, where the SHEDA Annual Dinner and Excellence Awards was held. Bobby Ting Sie Ching and John Yong Lock Ping, the organising chairmen, together with the committee made it a priority to ensure that this would be a night to remember—which it certainly was. The event was filled with performances such as a melodious Chinese orchestra, daring silk and hoop aerial dances, an opera singing Italian chef and more.
malaysia tatler . march 2016
FACES | ONLOOKER Chris Tong, Raymond Choon and Datin Sri Linda Chen
THE INSIDER
Eugene Low of E.Vogue Hair & Beauty Studio Academy in Johor Bahru was the Malaysian Grand Prix Winner of the contest. He won a Nissan Almera 1.5, a salon sponsorship, and more
Carmen Soo and Nadia Heng
Mane Artistry
eno and Kuninori U ong V Samantha
SHISEIDO PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY INNOVATOR AWARD As Asia’s largest hair design photo contest, the recent Shiseido Professional Beauty Innovator Award received an overwhelming response with entrants from all over Malaysia. The event featured vibrant hair displays from past winners and by the brand’s Artistic Ambassadors. This was followed by the muchanticipated awards ceremony.
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Frederick Lee, Cai Pei Xuan and Gary Cheok
Sam Chan
Dynas Mokhtar
FACES | ONLOOKER
Tiah Sock Lin and Ernest Yeap
Yap Pooi Ming and Carrie Fong Abdullah
eith and Ng Choon K et h C Wong Wen
Forever Young REHDA YOUTH SOIREE
May Chew
Terry Lim, Tan Yee Seng and Wong Horng Hann
Another smashing soiree thrown by the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Youth, this year-end party took place at Torii, a popular yakitori joint. Laughter and fun-filled hijinks paused for a moment when the head chef brought out the highlight of the evening, a whole Bluefin tuna.
Raymond Chan and Mu Kuta Mamat
First Year In ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF FRASER’S RESIDENCE Fraser’s Residence Kuala Lumpur celebrated its first anniversary by hosting a feast complete with entertainment. Guests were treated to good food, drinks and performances. The children got excited by the appearance of Bumblebee and Optimus Prime, which proved to be extremely popular, alongside other games.
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Akma Ismail and Seew Geet Teng
Wyslie Tay, Samantha Lee, Kent Ngow and Dinesh Pillay
Shirley Lai
malaysia tatler . march 2016
PHOTOGRAPHY: JASON LLOYD-EVANS
PARTY ON Bright colours, voluminous Edwardian sleeves and bespoke bags with customised shoulder straps ruled the catwalk at Fendi’s S/S 2016
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BRAVE NEW WORLD With surprise moves at some of the top fashion houses, this season’s shows were all about looking to the past and venturing into the unknown
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MOROCCAN VIBES
DARE TO BE DIFFERENT
Bright and vibrant hues take reign in Braun Büffel’s spring/summer 2016 collection
Marisa Mazlan pairs unconventional pieces together to stand out
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FLYING HIGH
SPRING IS IN THE AIR
RADIANCE UNLEASHED
Flirty, feminine dresses make for effortlessly chic looks this season
Ishimatsu Takayuki reveals the secret to radiant, glowing skin
Karl Lagerfeld turns the Grand Palais into a Chanel airport for the S/S 2016 collection
STYLE | NEWS
Moroccan Vibes This season, Braun Büffel adds vibrant hues to its collection by exploring beyond the golden coasts of Morocco Braun Büffel discovers a land bursting with colours and filled with enchantment upon going past the sands of time in Morocco. Presenting bolder, multifaceted designs, the spring/summer 2016 women’s collection features beautifully structured pieces that are meticulously put together in the finest of leather and purest of colours. Featuring a lush and rich colour palette inspired by the landscapes and local culture of Morocco, the patterns in the collection are influenced by the intricate designs of Moroccan pottery, kilim carpets and the colour accents of Mediterranean spices. Consisting of different lines of bags including the Atlas, Concorde, Delia, Essauira, Fes, Medina, Oasis and Ophelia, the collection uses materials from calf and goat leather making the collection bold, sensible and timeless. From backpacks to clutches to handbags, there is something for everyone.
YES TO PLEATS Carolina Herrera modernises pleats for its spring 2016 collection. Sheer layering with silk and variations of techno fabric from appliqués on tulle to all-over panels create the trompe l’oeil for the collection. The spectrum of rose, pale blush to a bold fuchsia and leather as well as organza paillettes on soft silhouettes give the collection a flirty, seductive vibe.
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COLOUR PLAY Clockwise from top: Model carries the Atlas bag; Oasis clutch, Fes bucket bag and Tanger backpack
EAST MEETS WEST
Shiatzy Chen presents a picturesque collection this season. Featuring childlike hand drawings and illustrations of monkeys, florals and butterflies, the collection includes low waistline dresses, loose pants and jackets. The colour palette of glitzy gold, lush green and turquoise blue gives the collection a retro feel. THE PERFECT CLUTCH Seen carried by Golden Globe award winner Jennifer Lawrence, actress Cate Blanchett and Emmy Rossum, the Roger Vivier Boite de Nuit Pompon clutch was the talk of the town at the 73rd Annual Golden Globe Awards.
GOOD VIBES ONLY This season Versace encourages women to get rid of the negativity in their lives by presenting a strong yet sexy collection. From platform heels with rubberised soles to platform sandals embellished with sequins and tie-handle bags from the Palazzo family, the collection is a mix of sportswear and effortless glamour.
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Eternal Beauty Searching for the fountain of youth? Well the Timetreasure EX Line is perhaps the closest natural remedy to aging less
NATURE’S GIFT Korea’s pine forest has inspired the creation of Sulwhasoo’s Timetreasure EX range
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ake a good look at yourself in the mirror the minute you wake up tomorrow. Chances are you’ll notice things on your face that weren’t there before. Whether it’s pronounced expression lines along your mouth folds, also known as nasolabial lines that don’t disappear even when you’re not smiling, or tiny lines at the corners of the eyes that seem to have appeared overnight or simply lacklustre and dull complexion—age creeps up, even to the best of us! The ideal way to prevent the signs of ageing is through a combination of good skincare habits as well as investing in and applying key anti-ageing products. Introducing Korea’s holistic skincare brand, Sulwhasoo, a global luxurious brand that offers beauty by harmoniously merging precious ingredients using Asian wisdom and modern science, based on the philosophy of ‘Harmony and Balance’—the belief that all things exist in relation to one another, and optimal vitality is achieved when these objects coexist together. In keeping with its philosophy, Sulwhasoo’s formulas foster a balance between the body and mind by promoting an equilibrium through
the scents, textures and tactile application, and by combining traditional techniques with modern science. Hence bringing about harmony between humans and nature by cultivating natural ingredients for our skin’s usage. According to the theories of Korean herbal medicine, the body undergoes internal changes every seven years, and at each milestone, energies within the body change. Historically at the age of 35, vital energies begin to taper and fall out of balance. As these energies diminish in the body, the skin becomes prone to dryness, dehydration, and is significantly vulnerable to the ageing process. Sulwhasoo now introduces its luxurious collection, Timetreasure EX Line, an advanced, comprehensive anti-ageing line where the modern skin science of Sulwhasoo meets the time-defying ‘De-Aging Active’ (DAA) ingredients hidden in the precious Korean red pine. The red pine has long been cherished as a symbol of longevity and youth because of its dense and strong wood, which remains pristine for a long time. According to the Compendium of Materia Medica, the red pine tree bark and resin have medicinal functions, and is a natural remedy to soothe and relax. In the past, Korean palaces used only the resilient red pine as
SULWHASOO | TATLER FOCUS
provides comprehensive care to tackle the signs of ageing and revitalises skin. Therefore, just like the red pine, which remains strong year by year and stays green for extended periods of time, the products in the Sulwhasoo Timetreasure EX Line will help to maintain your looks too and ensure longer lasting youthful skin. The line’s signature product is the Timetreasure Renovating Eye Cream EX which has adopted Sulwhasoo’s proprietary Red Pine Capsule Technology, offering a brightening effect and anti-wrinkle functions to improve skin dullness and elasticity around the eyes. All Sulwhasoo products are designed in synergy and work best when used together. The Sulwhasoo Timetreasure EX Line is available in a comprehensive range, featuring products such as the Timetreasure Renovating Water EX, Timetreasure Renovating Emulsion EX, Timetreasure Renovating Serum EX, Timetreasure Renovating Cream EX and Timetreasure Renovating Eye Cream EX. Sulwhasoo is available at Parkson Pavilion KL, Parkson Suria KLCC, Parkson 1 Utama, Parkson Gurney Plaza Penang and AEON Tebrau City. For more information, visit their website at sulwhasoo.com.my. Q
building material, to provide protection against rain and harsh weather. Grown in an unpolluted island of Korea, the red pine tree manages to flourish in the harshest of conditions, keeping its green needles and reddish bark intact for thousands of years. These qualities can be transferred to skincare as it envelops the skin in nourishing botanicals that revitalises complexion and smoothens lines and wrinkles. Based on 50 years of research into medicinal herbs, Sulwhasoo has taken its anti-ageing research to a new height, following the discovery of the age-defying DAA. The brand has adopted a unique POJE Optimizing Process, a steaming and drying process, to extract the DAA. It ensures the delivery of the concentrated DAA to the skin, activating the longevity gene and removing lipofuscin—a waste product that builds up within our cells. The DAA found in the red pine
THE SECRET EXTRACT The Korean red pine tree contains the secret ingredient to looking and feeling eternally young
STYLE | NEWS
The New Denim Revised and re-envisioned, this up-to-date denim is for urbane, globetrotting guys
Loathe neon? Have nightmares about colour clashing? Relax, the feeling’s neutral
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Valentino
Fendi
Bottega Veneta sling bag,Saint Laurent boots, Hermès gloves, Gucci frame
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PHOTOGRAPHY: JASON LLOYD-EVANS (RUNWAY AND STREET STYLE)
COASTING IN NEUTRAL
JW Anderson Calvin Klein Collection
Is the sum total of your denim wardrobe a pair of scruffy jeans you wear on weekends? Are you the sort that wouldn’t dream of donning denim for a dinner date? Well, you may just have to think again. This season the humble fabric has been plucked from the street and reimagined in hues of cornflower and indigo, zippered and edged and reworked into trenches, tunics and utilitarian shirts. No longer the preserve of scruffbags and scoundrels, new-look denim is art galleryappropriate and boardroomready. With denim this svelte, the days of the suit are well and truly numbered.
SPRING COLOURS
Dior Homme revisits sportswear essentials for its spring 2016 collection. Highlighted by navy blue, crimson and stone-coloured nylon, its key piece is the blouson, which goes perfectly with straight pants or cotton poplin shirts. The hooded version of the blouson is available in yellow and beige. SUMMER LOVE Colours, fabrics, styles and silhouettes come together in countless combinations creating impeccably sartorial looks in Canali’s S/S 2016 collection. Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean summer, the collection is a clever play on smart fabrics and colour palettes unleashed through summer coats, dress shirts, denim pants and twobutton suits.
DRESSED TO THE NINES Giorgio Armani was a popular choice at the 73rd Golden Globe Awards. Leonardo DiCaprio looked dashing in a two-button notch lapel wool tuxedo while Denzel Washington was the perfect gentleman in a black twobutton shawl collar tuxedo. malaysia tatler . march 2016
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STYLE | PROFILE
Hermès bracelet
Kate Spade bag
Christian Louboutin lipstick
STANDING OUT Believing in individual style, Marisa Soraya Mazlan loves mixing and matching unconventional pieces together
Dare to Be Different Not worrying about what others think, Marisa Soraya Mazlan pairs her Givenchy jumper with Jeffrey Campbell shoes and a Fendi clutch
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rom bohemian to street style, Marisa Soraya Mazlan is someone who is not afraid to dress as she pleases. “I have days where I want to be boyish and days when I want to be girly. Like today I’m feeling the R&B vibe, so I decided to wear this Givenchy jumper with my Jeffrey Campbell shoes,” says Marisa. Having found her love of fashion at a young age, Marisa looks up to her mother as a style icon. Other fashionistas that play an influence in her dressing sense are Rita Ora, Vanessa Hudgens, Cher and Stevie Nicks. Taking individuality seriously, Marisa pays no attention to people staring at her when she dresses differently. “I try to do something different, I like mixing pieces together, ones that wouldn’t normally be paired, and people stare but I don’t mind it because I like being myself,” she says with confidence and class.
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Adidas shoes
I got my first designer dress at the age of 5 and have loved fashion ever since Givenchy iPhone 6 phone cover
malaysia tatler . march 2016
WORDS: BRYNA KAUR; PHOTOGRAPHY: SEAN WONG WENG CHEONG; HAIR & MAKEUP: SUZANA FROM A CUT ABOVE
Linda Farrow sunglasses
FRENCH SOLE | TATLER FOCUS
WALK THE WALK Step out in style and comfort with a touch of fun with French Sole e
Summer Sole Searching Visualise it in your mind, love it in your heart and feel the summer with the French Sole spring/summer 2016 footwear collection
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ell known for their gorgeous classic ballet flats and luxurious fashionable flat footwear, French Sole once again excites us with their new collection for spring/summer 2016. This range offers a vibrant and colourful style perfect for each individual this summer, from the London Rocks Collection which gives us a taste of the pretty and feminine side of London grunge, to the Life’s a Tea Party theme which comprises chic and elegant styles with sprinkles of youthful embroidery throughout—a celebration of all things ‘wonderland’. Plus, to set the summer for the Olympics this year, arrays of fuchsia, green and orange, along with eccentric prints inspired by the South American city of Rio (where true carnival colours originate) can be seen in this collection among other stimulating and radiant pieces. Also check out other shoes in this collection to see what catches your eye this summer! For more information you can pay a visit to French Sole @ KLCC or call 03-2382 0808 Q 82 0808.
STYLE | FASHION
Flying High Captain Karl Lagerfeld welcomes passengers to Terminal 2C for Chanel’s spring/summer 2016 ready-to-wear collection
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boater or metallic headband matched with wedge sandals with luminous soles or open booties in silver leather and transparent plastic. In their hands, they carried the new cabin case, the ‘Coco Case’, with its pure lines, or an XXL version of the 11.12. Providing its air miles customers with top-notch entertainment, the show was a myriad of sky shades from midnight to white, red and carlingue grey, pink and black. Fully embracing the season, the collection also featured floral and multicolour prints on tweed, denim, leather, lace, guipure, tulle, silk and ottoman in a multitude of displays. Playing with codes of the sky on blouses, trousers and pleated skirts all printed with departure boards, arrow signage and tricolour motifs, Chanel’s spring/summer 2016 ready-to-wear collection is a breathtaking, whimsical visual of Karl Lagerfeld’s travelling attire: an ultra-feminine look that blends comfort and elegance with chic, functional accessories, perfect for anyone with the soul of a wanderlust.
TRAVEL IN STYLE Chanel’s S/S 2016 collection is a mixture of chic elegance and comfort, ideal for globe-trotting
malaysia tatler . march 2016
WORDS: BRYNA KAUR; IMAGES: CHANEL
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o stranger to out-of this-world extravaganzas, Karl Lagerfeld transformed the Grand Palais into a Chanel airport. Creating a replica of a situation that all travellers know too well: the one where people are on the move with their suitcases, walking the endless corridors to baggage claim and jet-lagged flyers donning sunglasses, Captain Karl brings a significant upgrade to the life of the travellers, the likes of Janelle Monae, Cara Delevingne, Alma Jodorowsky, Caroline de Maigret and more by taking over the flight controls. In front of check-in counters and beneath the departure boards, hostesses gazed through oversized aviator sunglasses laserengraved with a quilting effect, as passengers begin their journey with Chanel Airlines. Making their way to Terminal 2C where boarding commenced at gate no°5, the show saw hostesses with their hair tied back with a double catogan and tucked beneath a cap,
Floral prints brighten silk band dresses worn with matching accessories
“We travel more and more. So why shouldn’t there be Chanel luggage?”— Karl Lagerfeld
Codes of the sky printed on blouses and pleated skirts with tri-colour motifs
STEP IT UP Functional accessories add boldness to Chanel’s S/S 2016 collection
Silver-embroidered jacket sewn with bows and grosgrain ribbons worn with a flared skirt and trousers malaysia tatler . march 2016
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STYLE | FASHION
SPRING IS IN THE AIR Flirty, feminine dresses make for effortless looks as the winter thaws and the new season arrives. Cinch the waistline or top it off with a hat—just remember to keep it easy and breezy Photography CHRISTINE KREISELMAIER Styling HANNAH BECK Shot exclusively for Malaysia Tatler in Florence
CHECKMATE Jacket and hat by Chanel; skirt by TBA; belt by Hermès; sunglasses by Karen Walker
LA DOLCE VITA Dress by Temperley; handbag by Elena Ghisellini; sunglasses by Balenciaga
ZEST FEST Dress and handbag by Dolce & Gabbana; heels by Richard Braqo
HAT TRICK Dress by Louis Vuitton; hat by The Season
HAIR: STELIOS CHONDROS; MAKE-UP: SARAH JAGGER AT CAROL HAYES MANAGEMENT; MODEL: EUGENIA FEDOSEEVA AT FASHIONMODEL.IT; PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT: LAPO QUAGLI; PHOTOGRAPHER’S ASSISTANT: ARASH FATEHI
STEP INTO IT Dress by Carolina Herrera; heels by Christian Louboutin; belt by Christian Dior; sunglasses by Karen Walker
STYLE | FASHION
TO INFINITY AND BEYOND Dressed in sporty separates with their hands encased in fingerless leather gloves, Nicolas Ghesquière’s galactic girls are ready to explore new worlds for Louis Vuitton
BRAVE NEW WORLD With surprise movements at some of the top fashion houses, the spring/summer 2016 runway shows were all about looking to the past and venturing into the unknown. Justine Lee rounds up the hottest trends on the catwalks Photography JASON LLOYD-EVANS
NEW YORK
DOWN H T R A E TO
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PARIS
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STYLE | BEAUTY
My Fair Lady Shiseido’s White Lucent range doubles as your very own knight in shining armour to protect skin
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ow does one achieve flawless, Snow White-like skin without undergoing laser treatments or chemical peels? The solution lies in Shiseido’s new breakthrough White Lucent range, inspired by a combination of professional cosmetic procedures and brightening skincare treatments. Use the White Lucent MicroTargeting Spot Corrector to diminish the appearance of dark spots or try the White Lucent MultiBright Night Cream, which aids in reducing skin discolouration including spots, dullness, uneven tone, acne scars and noticeable pores. If you’re into barely-there textures, the White Lucent Luminizing Surge will suit you perfectly as it feels like you are not using any product. The emulsion from this line transforms into an invisible veil that protects skin while diminishing pigmentation. Lastly, the White Lucent Luminizing Infuser is an essence-rich brightening lotion that gently infuses the skin with intensive ingredients to regenerate a beautifully bright complexion.
STYLISH CONFIDANTE
Chanel’s Rouge Coco Stylo is dedicated to women who expect colour, shine and lip care in a lipstick. The hybrid formula of this innovative lip pen cleverly combines the intensity of a lipstick and the shine of a gloss with the melt-away texture and care of a balm. Apple seed extract and plant oils leave lips intensively moisturised while enveloped in lasting colour. 140
malaysia tatler . march 2016
BERRYLICIOUS
Burberry’s spring/summer 2016 make-up collection— Velvet & Lace—was inspired by the brand’s women’s wear collection ll i aand features intricate llace-inspired details, edgy dark red hues and metallic accents. The collection also offers two limited of edition palettes as ed weell as enticing shades of nail n polish and eye c l ur cream to create colou a unique look.
DELICATE NUANCE Feel fresh in the morning with the airy Miss Dior Silky Body Mist. Subtle yet sensual, the fragrance delicately perfumes the skin while beautifying it at the same time. Its special light and non-oily formula preserves the skin’s hydration for up to six hours, leaving it infinitely soft upon application.
GREEN GETAWAY Spritz a hint of spring into your scent with these calming fragrances DOLCE GABBANA Dolce Rosa Excelsa features hints of rose, water lily, daffodil and sandalwood
PREP LIKE A PRO To maximise the longevity of your makeup finish, brush on Clé de Peau Beauté’s Correcting Cream Veil or the Sheer Fluid Veil to deeply moisturise skin and create a natural radiance. Apply a dot on the four parts of the face (cheeks, forehead, nose and chin) then spread over your complexion, starting from the centre of the face.
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JO MALONE Enjoy the zesty notes of lemon against bigarade and petitgrain in the Jo Malone Sorrel & Lemon Thyme Cologne ANNA SUI The Sui Dreams in Green with a floral, fruity fragrance offers an escape from hectic city days into the relaxing wonders of nature
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STYLE | BEAUTY INSIDER
GLOWING FROM WITHIN From top: Clé de Peau Beauté spokesmodel Amanda Seyfried after using the brand’s new skincare range; the Hydro-Softening and Hydro-Clarifying lotions
Clé de Peau Beauté Laboratory director, Ishimatsu Takayuk uki,, reveals the secret behind the brand’s new skincare range
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lé de peau beauté’s spring/ summer 2016 skincare range is the secret to naturally dewy, radiant skin—that timeless look every woman desires. It is the result of extensive research, which began with the discovery that skin has its own intelligence and is able to process information by itself, just like the brain. As a result, Clé de Peau Beauté’s new line of skincare products are able to erase ‘memories’ of past damage, which could lead to various skin problems and ageing. To find out
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more about the exciting discovvery aptly termed the ‘Intuitive Skin Theoory’, y we oratoryy talk to Clé de Peau Beauté labo director, Ishimatsu Takayuki. Possessing P g over 14 years of experience, thee Tokyo y University of Science graduate played a significant research role in thee ncare products. development of the brand’s skin p According to him, the range waas inspired by wanted their skin customers’ feedback that they w to feel even more radiant. This was achieved by creating a range that allows skin to shine from within, using the ‘Intuitive Skin Theory.’ malaysia tatler . march 2016
WORDS: SANGEETA DEVI; IMAGES: CLÉ DE PEAU BEAUTÉ
RADIANCE UNLEASHED
BEAUTY FORTIFIERS From left: Use Clé de Peau Beauté’s new le coton to spread products evenly on your complexion; the Intensive Fortifying Emulsion and Intensive Fortifying Cream; Clé de Peau Beauté laboratory director, Ishimatsu Takayuki
Can you tell us more about the skincare products in the new range? You can choose from the Hydrosoftening lotion, which reduces pores and creates dewy skin or select the Hydro-clarifying lotion, which brightens the complexion with its non-greasy texture. To protect skin from harsh UV rays, use the lightweight Protective Fortifying Emulsion or the Protective Fortifying Cream. At night, use the Intensive Fortifying Emulsion or the Intensive Fortifying Cream to create nourished, well-rested skin in the morning. Finally, the signature La Crème focuses on the replacement cycle of skin tissue to create a youthfullooking complexion. How was the ‘Intuitive Skin Theory’ developed? It is well known that NMDA receptors—a glutamate receptor found in the hippocampus of the brain—has a significant effect on memory. However, our research has revealed that NMDA receptors also exist in the epidermis and play a large role in the barrier functions of the skin. We have focused on the fact that when NMDA receptors are stimulated, the memory of past damage is stored in the skin and memory of the damage continues
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in the future and causes rough skin and ageing. Theanine, in which large amounts are contained in high quality green tea leaves such as gyokuro, has also been added to these skincare items in order to reduce cellular stresses regardless of their age. How long did it take to develop the range? It took over five years. What are some of the benefits of the range? First, the skin is enriched with vital hydration and then infused with fortifying ingredients. Thus users will experience vibrant and glowing smooth-textured skin that is clear, firm and plump with moisture. Can you tell us more about the Illuminating Complex EX, which is found in the products? This exclusive ingredient from Clé de Peau Beauté Laboratories is a special combination of moisturising and retexturising ingredients that normalises communication within skin. It is made up of Japanese pearls and Platinum Gold Silk, which is derived from silk fibres. Why are the main components of the Illuminating Complex
EX unique? Gold Silk is direc ctly extracted from rare are cocoons made uniquely for Clé de Peau Beauté. By extracting the essence directly from the silk fibre in the cocoons rather than from silk threads, we are able to create an extract of beauty ingredients without any loss. Furthermore, the producers have inherited Japan’s state-ofthe-art sericulture technology where they can carefully grow the cocoons in mulberry farms in Thailand. These quality cocoons are not exposed to any insecticides, so they can produce the best silk fibre that leaves skin feeling silky-smooth. The Japanese pearls contain a protein called conchiolin, which consists of 20 different kinds of amino acids. The composition of these amino acids is similar to the skin’s natural moisturising factor, making it the ideal skincare ingredient. How long does it take to see visible results? In a general test, we verified the effects following six weeks of continuous use. However, in the survey, users noted that they could feel signs of skin radiance after just one week.
DID YOU KNOW
Clé de Peau Beauté’s signature La Crème contains intensive ingredients such as rosemary and citrus unshiu peel extract
STYLE
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CLASH AND BUBBLE
IN THE PEAK OF PROGRESS
FRINGE BENEFITS
PURE LINEAGE
MASTERPIECES
Corum Bubble Paiste watch plus other new releases for the month
Alexander Schmiedt on Montblanc’s ongoing growth
Glam it up with luxurious arrangements of tassels
The Louis Vuitton Acte V high jewellery collection takes Sydney by storm
Museum-worthy watches and jewellery to satisfy the discerning collector
IMAGE: CARTIER
M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
KEY OF CARTIER Image, style and heritage director of Cartier, Pierre Rainero talks about Cartier’s commitment to style evolution, as visible in its development of the Clé de Cartier—p.150
STYLE | WATCHES
MUSIC MEETS TIME The combination of black and gold colours gives the Corum Bubble Paiste watch a distinctive look
Clash and Bubble Corum and Paiste worked together to bridge the world of haute horlogerie and rock music in a seamless manner with the latest version of the Bubble watch
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n 2000, Corum introduced the Bubble, an oversized watch with an even larger crystal to amplify the dial details. The Bubble is recently given a contemporary twist as Corum joined forces with fellow Swiss company and cymbal specialists Paiste to create a timepiece with a dial being the exact miniature version of a cymbal. Just like Paiste cymbals, every dial is finished by hand. From the stainless
steel case—treated with black PVD—to the strap being black rubber with a matte black calf leather inlay, a full black dressing was selected to make the miniature version stand out from its case. The full black look of the timepiece refers to rock music, a genre that Paiste has been associated with for more than 40 years now. The Corum Paiste watch is powered by a CO 110 automatic movement and is limited to 350 pieces.
A STUDY IN PINK
While women continue to be enchanted by gem-set watches, they are also fascinated by the technicality of watchmaking. Always eager to please this demanding clientele, Richard Mille has created the new RM 07-02 Pink Lady Sapphire—an automatic calibre protected by a pink sapphire case. 146
ON THE FAST LANE
In 2016, Rolex marks its 24th year as the official timekeeper of the Rolex 24 At Daytona. The 54th edition of the race will showcase the all-new Daytona International Speedway, which has undergone a $400 million upgrade—part of the Daytona Rising redevelopment project. HIGH FLIERS Striking Gold Proving again that it is truly a brand of innovation, Girard-Perregaux accepted its second award during the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève ceremony. The brand’s Minute Repeater Tourbillon with Gold Bridges was recognised with the Striking Watch Prize—two years after receiving the Aiguille d’Or Prize in 2013 for the Constant Escapement LM. Antonio Calce, CEO of SOWIND Group had this to say: “The architecture of Three Bridges is the signature of the brand. The challenge was to add the additional function of minute repeater while preserving the symmetry and the timeless design of our icon. We are honoured to win this award.”
MOON OVER THIS
Breguet unveils its Classique Phase de Lune Dame 9088 this month. The white-gold watch features fluted sides and a dial in white ‘grand feu’ enamel. The minutes track, made up of tiny stars, together with stylised fleursde-lys for the five-minute fractions, are another homage to the Breguet watchmaking tradition of past. malaysia tatler . march 2016
Aviation-themed watches for the bold spirited Black Hawk Breitling’s Chronomat 44 Blacksteel is a new version of the brand’s flagship collection. Its all-black look requires the use of specific materials to achieve the right results. The unidirectional rotating bezel features black rubber-inlaid numerals to match its dark dial.
Sky’s the Limit Bell & Ross is debuting its BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon in rose gold. The integration of several fine complications (tourbillon, mono-pusher chronograph, power reserve indicator) in the square, rugged case of the BR-X1 is an accomplishment indeed.
Top Gun IWC’s Big Pilot’s Watch Top Gun’s case diameter has shrunk to 46mm. For the dial, IWC’s designers decided to do away with the small, signal red aircraft silhouette in favour of a clean, uncluttered watch face.
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STYLE | WATCHES
In the Peak of Progress Montblanc takes its mission of sharing the passion of fine watchmaking very seriously. Alexander Schmiedt talks about the brand’s untiring pursuit of excellence in its product creation and innovation
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COOL PRECISION Schmiedt is an appreciator of the exquisite functions found in the Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie ExoTourbillon Minute Chronograph Vasco Da Gama watch
to producing mechanical complications such as exotourbillons, perpetual calendars and dual timers. In 2015, the brand successfully expanded its repertoire of collections at a rapid rate. It also unveiled its own version of a connected device, the E-Strap, in the wake of interest in smartwatches last year. On the ambassador front, the brand has enlisted the blue-blooded Charlotte Casiraghi to join its fold to showcase the brand’s Boheme collection. Through clever strategising and communications, Montblanc has managed to position these complication watches at a surprising price range that hits the mark between affordable and luxury. “Our mission is to share the passion of fine watchmaking. To do so, you have to give the buyers a new malaysia tatler . march 2016
WORDS: LILY ONG; IMAGES: MONTBLANC
he watch industry has changed significantly in the past decade—a fact that Alexander Schmiedt, the managing director for the watches division in Montblanc International can attest to during his 11 years with the brand. In fact, Schmiedt has known the industry for far longer than that, having grown up in a family that worked in the timepiece business. At first impression, his serious demeanour and piercing gaze can be disarming. Being cerebral by nature, Schmiedt is more of a listener and thinker than a talker; he is not one to speak if he has nothing substantial to say and prefers to take his time to choose his words carefully. Yet once he is successfully engaged—especially when he is expressing his opinions about Montblanc and watchmaking in general—he lets his guard down and reveals his deep and abiding passion for the industry he spent much time in. Together with Montblanc’s CEO Jerome Lambert, Schmiedt is committed towards developing the watch segment into new territories. While it is often known for its leather goods and writing instruments, Montblanc’s relationship with Minerva in Villeret, Switzerland has taken its reputation for watchmaking into a higher level. Minerva is a renowned historical manufacture that the Richemont Group acquired a few years ago and it became associated with Montblanc via the Villeret 1858 collection. Since then, the brand has been on a roll when it comes
“Montblanc is named after the highest point in Switzerland as a reminder that everything we create has to be at the peak among competition” possibility by providing them a chance to appreciate fine watchmaking at a price level that never existed before,” says Schmiedt. He then adds that there are three fundamentals to focus on when it comes to perfecting the art of timekeeping. “The first thing we look at is performance. A product must be functional and innovative to perform well. The second element is craftsmanship. Montblanc has always prioritised sophistication and timelessness in our
designs and aesthetics. Last but not least, we share these two elements with the world so that they will choose our products as lifetime companions,” he explains. During a previous interview with Lambert, he asserts that striking a balance between heritage and modernity is his vision for the brand. “Today’s watch buyers have different types and tastes. They want and desire various things. But what they need is credible watchmaking substance—which we have with our history and our manufacture in Villeret. We never forget that our clients are smart. They can easily discern between what is substance and what is marketing ‘hot air’. We respect them and communicate with them at their level,” he elaborates. On a final note, Schmiedt believes Montblanc can still push out more fresh and novel ideas and do more with its special positioning in the industry. “Montblanc is named after the highest point in Switzerland as a reminder that everything we create has to be at the peak among competition. We can always do things better than before; there are always new and unique ways to tell time,” he states decisively, proving that it is indeed the journey towards success that matters more than the final destination.
TIME FOR KEEPS Alexander Schmiedt; Montblanc Heritage Chronométrie Dual Time Vasco Da Gama; up close and detailed look at Montblanc’s mechanisms
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STYLE | WATCHES
Evolving with Style Pierre Rainero gets serious when it comes to the subject of fostering a culture of creativity and productivity among the artisans and talents at Cartier, writes Lily Ong
COOL CAT Rainero explains that while Cartier’s aesthetic narrative was born long ago, it is his duty to ensure that the brand’s style evolves
communication issues and strategies as well as the protection of Cartier’s heritage. Philosophical and reflective, he muses in his clear, distinctive voice that his key responsibility is to spearhead the direction of Cartier’s style. “My initial title had the word artistic in it but I find that it is not adapted to the nature of our work. We cannot say in jewellery or watchmaking that one person is responsible for the artistic dimension of the final creation. It’s simply not true because we have many talents involved in the final result. Designers, artisans, stone setters and even the movement makers—they all have artistic responsibilities. So it is not really correct to refer to me as an artistic director because I am more of the style guy,” he explains.
IMAGES: CARTIER
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omewhere in the middle of our conversation about his role as the image, style and heritage director for Cartier, Pierre Rainero expressed his discomfort with the insinuations that the word ‘luxury’ brings. “I like the idea of beauty and prestige that is associated with luxury. But luxury also covers a perception that it is something humans merely want. That’s not correct at all; as an intellectual species we need to have luxury in our lives because it is linked to the satisfaction of our spirit,” he articulates with a smile. He then adds, “I admit, our products are not accessible nor are they easy to buy. Yet, Cartier has marked many important moments and milestones in our customers’ lives: weddings, the birth of a baby, anniversaries and birthdays. Our products are what they are—a way to invest into the height of what it is to be human. We do need this luxury.” Rainero knows what he is talking about. He has seen it all in his three decades of service at Cartier, the premium brand of jewellery and watches that has been synonymous with the concept of luxury. He started off with the brand in 1984, working in advertising and marketing before taking on more responsibilities which expanded to supervising contemporary designs,
“My responsibility is to make decisions, keeping in mind the vision of the Cartier style of today and tomorrow” As we talk further about style, it becomes more apparent that he clearly knows what defines Cartier. “Our purpose in Cartier is to create beautiful objects and provide pleasure to our clients. However, if you want your creations to be desirable, beauty is not enough. You must give clients the will and wish to wear and live with these creations. The only way is to ensure their lifestyles are taken into account. Style is a commitment to permanent evolution, and fits the era and the times,” says Rainero. In a sense, he is both custodian and curator, protecting the brand’s basic DNA while pushing the boundaries of innovation at the same time. Rainero works closely with all of the departments to develop Cartier’s style language coherently. “I bring the heads of our products and communications together and encourage them. Then I listen and facilitate. We go to museums and exhibitions to enrich our minds and then take these ideas back to what we do at Cartier. These exchanges of ideas and knowledge are vital towards our growth, so I make sure we foster that among our team members,” he reveals. malaysia tatler . march 2016
“My responsibility is to make decisions, keeping in mind the vision of the Cartier style of today and tomorrow. Cartier’s style was born a long time ago and it has evolved through the different generations that have worked at Cartier. I am honoured to narrate that vision of style today. So I never say yes or no to ideas without really thinking why it would or would not work for the brand,” adds the well-dressed man passionately. “I try not to confuse my personal taste with Cartier’s direction, I don’t say I like or don’t like something. It is a duty for me to give objective feedback and analyse my decisions,” he also says. No doubt, his steadfastness towards Cartier is reason enough for its continuing success and brand longevity.
ART AND LUXURY Clockwise from top left: Gem-setters hard at work; Pierre Rainero; Clé de Cartier; Rotonde Mysterious Double Tourbillon by Cartier
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STYLE | JEWELLERY
Fringe Benefits TASSEL HUSTLE
Look luxurious with arrangements of tassels set with precious stones assels made quite a fashion comeback last year, showing up on jeans and jackets, designer bags, preppy loafers and flirty heels. The fringe obsession has worked its way into the jewellery world as well and with just the same fervour, showing up frequently on the red carpet. Offering vibrant interpretations of the tassel are Chopard with its Imperiale necklace, in which amethyst beads hang loosely from a diamondencrusted pendant, and Chanel with the Cruise white-gold necklace set and laced with aquamarine beads, diamonds and black spinels. Tiffany & Co offers a more accessible and subdued tassel piece with its Fringe earrings in 18K yellow gold. Inspired by Middle Eastern talismans, David Morris creates earrings with a combination of emeralds and diamonds, while we see an opulent take on the tassel in Cartier’s dramatic Violine back necklace from the Etourdissant high jewellery collection, stringed with chalcedony and amethyst beads, and complemented by amethysts and brilliantcut diamonds. Van Cleef & Arpels meanwhile continues its tradition of transformable jewellery and secret watches with new Pompon long necklaces that come with detachable watches equipped with a quartz movement. These necklaces are inspired by a vintage 1970 Pompon sautoir (pictured top, centre), which is set with coral, amethysts and diamonds.
Our fringe favourites at the Golden Globes
Jennifer Lopez in a Cascade necklace by Harry Winston
Zendaya in Tahitian pearl earrings by Yoko London
Cate Blanchett in vintage Tiffany & Co drop earrings
DRAMATIC DROPS Clockwise from left: Violine back necklace by Cartier; emerald and diamond piece by David Morris; 1970 Pompon necklace from Van Cleef & Arpels’ collection; Imperiale tassel necklace by Chopard; yellowgold fringe earrings by Tiffany & Co; Cruise aquamarine tassel necklace by Chanel
Kate Winslet in chandelier earrings by Neil Lane
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Love Everlasting Valentine’s Day might be over but that does not mean the loving should ever stop. Show deep affection for your partner with the variety of couple rings made available by Poh Kong. With simple yet captivating designs, choices to charm your beloved can be from white, yellow or rose gold and platinum, as well as intertwining white and yellow gold for a touch of modernity. Tokens of love like these need no occasion and adds a sparkle to your relationship.
MINIMALIST MIX Make maximum impact with simple yet architectural designs Boucheron Quatre ring
CRYSTAL FIT The Swarovski Activity Tracking Jewellery Collection, designed in collaboration with wearable tech company Misfit, is Swarovski’s first smart range, offering a technological touch to its iconic crystals. Set against the Swarovski Slake bracelet or sleek sport band, this luxurious activity tracker has an ‘Activity Crystal’ at the heart of it. This dazzling bracelet is designed for modern women of today who seek a feminine and fashionable way to keep track of their lifestyle.
Hoorsenbuhs Phantom cuff
Lynn Ban Handcuff hinged bangle
Dinh Van Serrure cuff in yellow gold
PRETTY IN PARADISE
Leap frogs, mandarin ducks and parrots are the animal motifs skilfully captured by the craftsmen at DeGem for its Paradiso collection. Colourful stones are utilised to bring these designs, consisting of earrings, pendant and brooch to life in a playful way. malaysia tatler . march 2016
Suzanne Syz titanium and diamond cuff
Dionea Orcini diamond cuff in yellow gold
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STYLE | JEWELLERY
Pure Lineage Louis Vuitton celebrates the art of travel by bringing its fifth high jewellery collection on a grand tour around the world. In Sydney, Lily Ong gets up close and personal with the maison’s Acte V jewels
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t is a perfect afternoon for a private tour of Louis Vuitton’s fine jewellery collection in Sydney, Australia. The fierceness of the summer sun is tamed by a gentle sea breeze wafting all around. Against this picturesque backdrop, guests lounged with iced tea and chilled champagne in the patio of a private residence in Rose Bay, an upscale neighbourhood in Sydney. In the distance, we all could make out the silhouettes of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, gleaming brightly over the ocean and making up the city’s skyline. All in all, the mood is upbeat and relaxed. “It’s true to the Aussie style,” says Christopher Kilaniotis, the president of Louis Vuitton South Asia, as he leads a group of us into the living room of a Capri-inspired residence. Joining him for this exclusive sneak peek is Hamdi Chatti, Louis Vuitton’s vicepresident of watches and jewellery, who flew in to the country with some of the finest pieces from the brand’s latest Acte V high jewellery collection.
V IS FOR VUITTON From left: Acte V Genesis ring with mandarin garnet; this magnificent Genesis opal necklace is the star of the collection; Acte V Apotheosis cuff in diamonds
IMAGES: LOUIS VUITTON
A TOUCH OF ART DECO Since its founding, Louis Vuitton’s roots lie in its trunk and luggage business, which soon led to the brand’s foray into the exciting realm of fashion. Since then, the brand has associated itself with the fields of travel, luxury and art. These elements, coupled with Louis Vuitton’s historical roots and legacy are the backbone of the brand’s watches and jewellery narrative as well. With Acte V, all of these elements are carefully deliberated and executed with flair. Each piece from the collection spells out Vuitton with the V motif, which also symbolises the number five in Roman numerals. Chiefly, the collection also pays tribute to the signature V ideogram that was stylised by Gaston-Louis Vuitton during the Art Deco period of the brand’s heritage. This pioneering visual art concept swept the Western world by storm in the 1920s. Riding on its wave was Gaston-Louis, who steered his family brand along with it. In support of the artistic movement, GastonLouis Vuitton worked with the best artisans of the era to design a special travel set echoing the scope of Art Deco at a 1925 exhibition. It was at this exhibition that the V-shaped monogram was showcased in the simple combination of white, red and blue. When you look at the pieces from Acte V, the distinctive lines of the V shape will be malaysia tatler . march 2016
“Creativity is important but it has to go in line with our heritage and our plans for the future” visible at first sight. The Art Deco elements are inherent in the cuffs, rings, earrings and necklaces from the collection, as seen in the geometrical shapes and linear symmetry in the designs. Yet, those with a keen understanding of Art Deco will notice that Acte V does not seek to create exact replicas of the era but instead inspire a modern interpretation. “It is more of an inspiration for what we do,” says Kilaniotis during the tour.
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STYLE | JEWELLERY
WHAT A GEM The gemstones in Acte V—sourced from all over the world—are the real stars of the show. These jewels imbue a raw aura of mystique to the collection’s design template of lines and precise proportions. In most cases for the collection, the direction of the product design is centred on the specific gemstones that inspire the jewellery designers at Louis Vuitton. “Most of the time, we craft the design around the gemstones we are fascinated with. That way, it will really flesh out the gemstones’ innate beauty and character,” Chatti explains. The pièce de résistance from Acte V is the Genesis necklace, which bears a magnificent 87.92-carat triangular black opal from Australia’s prestigious Lightning Ridge mines.
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Set with a Paraiba tourmaline, and a sparkling sky blue sapphire from the Pien Pyit mines in Myanmar and LV star-cut diamonds, this dazzling piece was a focal point of the private viewing in Sydney. Murmurs of appreciation filled the silence when we crowded around the encased beauty. We took turns pressing our noses against the glass to see the glorious one-of-a-kind piece. Kilaniotis was amused by our excitement and took the opportunity to tell us: “Here’s a fun fact for you all—the opal here is Australian. It has travelled to our maison in France and all over the world for private viewings. Now it is back in its home. It’s a homecoming for this necklace.” Upon close examination, I can see why this piece is the star attraction. The black
DROPS OF FIRE
Pictures don’t do justice to the black opal used in the Genesis set as it is more mesmerising in reality
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“When our clients invest in our high jewellery collection, they are looking for something that stays timeless forever”
opal chosen for this piece represents fire and displays a wide spectrum of colours that mesmerise the eye. We also learn that this particular gem was found the way it was set—in a triangular shape that fits perfectly with the V motif the product requires. “It’s a lucky coincidence for us,” Chatti chuckles as he relates the story of how he and his team managed to incorporate this unique gemstone into the collection. This showstopper of a necklace can be paired with harmonising earrings that feature Australian black opals, star-cut diamonds and sapphires. Another piece that drew its own fan base is the Louis Vuitton Acte V Metamorphosis necklace with Panjshir emeralds and diamonds, which can be paired with the Acte V Metamorphosis earrings featuring the same gemstone and design. On a separate note, the Apotheosis cuff featuring black onyx, diamonds and a 16.5-carat pear-shaped tsavorite is also a beauty to behold and touch. We were told not to confuse the tsavorite garnet in the aforementioned piece, for an emerald during the viewing. It took 10 minutes of scrutiny for this writer to be able to discern the hues of both stones—the other point of reference being the Acte V Apotheosis necklace set, featuring diamonds malaysia tatler . march 2016
ending with a drop of emerald followed by a pear-shaped tourmaline. What struck me as we finished the tour was the restraint Louis Vuitton showed in the design of Acte V. The designs were pure simplicity and beautifully minimalist. Chatti addressed my query on the matter with a shrug and a smile. “Creativity is important but it has to go in line with our heritage and our plans for the future. We don’t create one art piece and leave it as that. When our clients invest in our high jewellery collection, they are looking for something that stays timeless forever.” Judging by the number of empty jewellery stands I saw after our tour, there’s no denying that Louis Vuitton understands its customers down to a T—or shall we say, V.
HIGH LINE Clockwise from top left: Sketch of Apotheosis cuff with tsavorite; Acte V takes Sydney; Metamorphosis necklace; Genesis earrings; Christopher Kilaniotis; simple forms of elegance
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STYLE | WATCHES & JEWELLERY
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Get a feel for the artistry behind jewellery and watchmaking with this stunning selection of museum-worthy creations
E S T MA R P EC E I S Photography PIOTR STOKLOSA Styling PATRYCJA MATYSIAK
PORTRAIT OF A LADY Clockwise from top left: Constellation Orbis watch by Omega; ladies’ timepiece in white gold set with diamonds by Blancpain; high jewellery necklace in white gold encrusted with diamonds and sapphires by Adler; JosÊphine white gold watch with mother-of-pearl dial set with diamonds by Chaumet; high jewellery watch in white gold set with diamonds by Cartier
MESMERISING MUSE Clockwise from top left: Sirio D pearl necklace with white gold and diamonds by Damiani; mother-of-pearl cuff with diamonds by Chanel; Kรถnigskordel necklace in gold with diamonds by Wellendorff; red gold Altiplano watch by Piaget
COMMUNING WITH NATURE Clockwise from left: The Flight sapphire ring by Morphée Joaillerie; Australian black opal pendant by Orlov; La D de Dior watch by Dior; Millésime earrings and necklace clip with emeralds by Morphée Joaillerie; Rose Extraordinaire watch by Jaeger-LeCoultre; Fleur de Lotus ruby necklace by Boucheron
PERCEPTIVE POSES From far left: Summer in New York necklace with diamonds and sapphires by Chanel; The Modern Art Deco brooch with diamonds, emeralds, black onyx and green agate by Ralph Lauren; Antifer choker in black gold and diamonds by Repossi; high jewellery diamond watch by Cartier; Limelight watch with diamonds on satin bracelet by Piaget
GOLDEN GIRL Clockwise from left: Gold bracelet by Mellerio dits Meller; Limelight necklace with watch in yellow gold by Piaget; Fleur de Lotus yellow gold ring by Boucheron; PlissĂŠ Soleil watch with a motherof-pearl dial set with diamonds by Dior
CHERUBIC CHARMS Clockwise from top left: Natural pigeon blood Burmese ruby and diamond earrings by Orlov; high jewellery diamond watch by Chanel; 12 Vend么me necklace with diamonds, sapphires, tanzanite, and cushion-cut purple sapphires by Chaumet
ARTISTIC IMPRESSIONS Switzerland-based photographer Namsa Leuba’s image Umfana from her Kingdom of Mountains series
M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
FEATURES PAGE
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A Beauty and Her Faith Amira Geneid opens up about her desire to engage with other women, which also led to her business start-up
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Wonder Women Four women talk about the dynamics of female leadership and their personal deďŹ nitions of success
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Out of Africa Forget the tired old stereotypes attached to Africa, and view the nation through the eyes of its artists
Photography Tian Xing Creative Direction Allan Casal
Beauty and her Faith
HAIR: KAY TUAN FROM CENTRO HAIR SALON; MAKEUP: IRENA ADAM; LOCATION: ESPRESSAMENTE ILLY AND PAVILION KL; NAILS: ZAHARA NAIL POLISHES
A desire to engage other young women inspired Amira Geneid to launch her beauty start-up Zahara. Lily Ong gets to know the woman behind the digital enterprise as she takes a big step forward in her business and personal life this month
NO TURNING BACK There’s a certain maturity beyond her age which enabled Amira Geneid to take a leap of faith and launch her own beauty start-up
It’s 9 in the morning and Amira Geneid is halfreclined in her chair while our team of stylists are at work. This young woman has her hands full at the moment, organising her upcoming wedding and managing the dayto-day demands of her flourishing beauty startup Zahara, and she’s glad to leave the glamming up to the experts. Bookworm to Butterfly With her eyes closed, one may think she has dozed off. On the contrary, she is mentally tackling the endless list of to-do items she has on her plate. “My fiancé Cam is always quick to remind me about a certain quote by former US military general Creighton Abrams: ‘When eating an elephant, take one bite at a time,’ ” she says in a gentle, ladylike tone that I have become accustomed to after hours of conversation with her. Compared to her other six siblings, the second youngest daughter of Dato’ Robert Geneid and Datuk Raziah Mahmud-Geneid has always been introverted by nature. She inherited this trait from her father, with whom she shares a tight bond. Being brave and eager to experience new things, she is also one of her father’s favourite companions for his outdoor-related adventures such as hiking and going on forest trails. “Since I was six years old, my dad would take me on drives through his developing projects and explain about them to me. He never talked down but instead patiently taught me what I needed to know when I asked questions. He made me believe that I could achieve anything in the world,” says Amira.
REACH OUT FOR SUCCESS Amira hopes to build a community base, with Zahara as a platform
LIKE A BOSS Amira hopes to emulate her mother’s spirited independence and kind nature as a woman
“My mother showed me how strong a woman can be. There’s no such thing as a man’s or a woman’s world. It’s your world and how you take charge of it. She is fierce and kind, a beautiful juxtaposition I hope to emulate one day”
“My fiancé Cam has been there with me every step of the way. He is always quick to remind me about a certain quote by former US military general Creighton Abrams: ‘When eating an elephant, take one bite at a time’”
That being said, reserved and brainy Amira is still her mother’s daughter on the inside. Once Amira is drawn out of her shell, she is as funny, mischievous and quick-witted as her bon vivant mum—albeit in a more self-depreciating manner. I was fortunate enough to witness this other side of her personality occasionally when she is around her fiancé Cameron Priest and her family members. “My mother showed me how strong a woman can be. There’s no such thing as a man’s or a woman’s world. It’s your world and how you take charge of it. She is fierce and kind, a beautiful juxtaposition I hope to emulate one day. I’m so lucky to have parents who have set such lofty goals for me and showed me that you can be successful if you work hard. They are my inspiration,” she adds. Her childhood was spent in the sleepy town of Kuching, followed by years of independence cultivated from her time at boarding school, in Kambala Girls School in Sydney, Australia. After that, Amira pursued a business administration degree with a focus on management and techno-entrepreneurship from the National University of Singapore. The world of e-commerce was a natural path to take for her, whose entrepreneurship dreams crystallised during her internship at Golden Gate Ventures, a venture capital firm in Singapore. By the time she graduated from university, she knew she wanted to engage and communicate with ambitious women like herself from all over the world. “I thought to myself, what better way to do so than going into the beauty business?”
A Leap of Faith With this wisp of an idea floating in her mind, Amira started her career at Luxola, a beauty marketplace based in Singapore. Now owned by the LVMH Group, it is poised to be the next Sephora of Southeast Asia. Her work responsibilities at Luxola were focused on marketing, but this did not stop her from expanding her worldview into other arenas. “I made a concerted effort to talk to everyone and learn the basics from other departments, such as design, content, support, purchasing and analytics,” shares this gritty young woman with an insatiable appetite for knowledge. Wanting to take her dreams to the next level, she took off to the Silicon Valley in the US and enrolled in an entrepreneurship programme under third-generation investor and venture capitalist Tim Draper. The three months she spent at Draper University did more than instil the basics of business in Amira. She noticed that her identity as a Muslim woman sparked confusion and curiosity from her interactions with people she met in the US. Passionate about fighting gender and cultural stereotypes, these misconceptions lit a fire in her gut. “Even from my time in Singapore, I encountered a lot of people who misunderstood who I was and what a Muslim girl should look, sound or act like. It was a source of frustration. My time with Tim and his team helped me flesh things out and eventually, I found the core foundation of my beauty business—to satisfy the beauty needs of Muslim women. Whatever I create, it would be a symbol of the many beautiful, diverse and strong faces that make up the female Muslim population,” she says. And so, she imbued her business with a bigger purpose—empowerment through faith and beauty. She named this pet project of hers Zahara—an Arabic word for ‘flower’, ‘blossom’, or ‘beauty’. Upon finishing her studies at Draper University, she eventually dived headlong into the monumental task of getting Zahara up and running.
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PEAS IN A POD She cites her fiancĂŠ Cameron Priest as a pillar of strength, as he offers her support along every step of her journey
GOING STRONG Amira has her ups and downs in getting and keeping Zahara moving, but the positive responses she receives keeps her going
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“I envisioned Zahara to be a beauty destination for all Muslim women. We provide a platform to communicate who we are and what’s important to us. Over time, we want to make this more interactive so that we can build a community base for young women to help, motivate and uplift each other as well as make friends,” she asserts. With the ‘elephant’ figured out, it was time to take her first small ‘bite’. Amira looked at a problem she faced as a young Muslim woman and noted that halal cosmetics—while ubiquitously sold—did not match the standards that she and her Muslim girlfriends hold by. So she started Zahara by introducing water-permeable nail polish with a special formula that allows oxygen and water to pass through the surface to enable Muslim women to perform their wudhu (the ritual water cleansing act before prayers). According to Amira, all the products in the Zahara line are manufactured in Europe using quality ingredients. A lot of thought is put into what they do, from formulation to packaging and marketing. The entire process took about a year. In October 2015, sales commenced for Zahara’s wudhu-friendly nail polishes on its website. These polishes are given quirky names based on the shade it represents, like the deep red #LadyBoss, grey-toned Modesty Muse or the ice-blue shade of Arctic Queen. For Arctic Queen, 100 per cent of all profits from the sale of this shade will be donated to HELP ANNA, a UN women’s campaign to help battered women—mirroring Amira’s personal passion for championing women’s issues. Since then, she has also rolled out Zahara’s longwear eyeliners in the shade of ochre and onyx. While the e-commerce of the business is growing, Zahara’s editorial thrust on female empowerment is centred on the concept of a Zahara Warrior—defined by Amira as “any woman who holds our values of strength, beauty, kindness and grace.” She envisions a whole tribe of these women coming together through the brand to achieve their dreams. A quick scan of Zahara’s blog and Instagram account @lovefromzahara aptly reflects this. From elevating inspiring female icons such as Queen Rania of Jordan and Amal Clooney as Zahara Warriors, to dishing out hijab styling advice and DIY mask recipes, Zahara’s content is engaging, relevant and inspiring. To say she wore herself thin launching Zahara is an understatement. “Sometimes, I lose faith. There’s so much to do across the board, so much more than I anticipated. I’m not a designer, I’m not an accountant, I’m not a web developer but I’ve learnt that I have to be whatever the company needs at the moment,” she admits. What kept her going was the positive response Zahara has received. “At this stage, we have a small following but they are a dedicated bunch! Every day I have girls telling me, through our Instagram, how much they love the products. They post encouraging comments and express interest in the brand, which means the world to me. As Brian Chesky of AirBnB says: ‘It is better to have 100 people who love you than finding a million who sort of like you. I feel we are on the right trajectory,” she says happily. Aside from that, she has also received enquiries from nail salons to stock her products while investors are also expressing interest in the business. While flattered, Amira confessed she is still not ready to give up her ‘baby’ at this stage. Up next on the pipeline is a range of matte lip-glosses that are about to be launched in March. “I have huge plans for Zahara. I am in it for the long run,” says Amira.
“In the end, I envision Zahara to be a beauty destination for all Muslim women. Not only do we create cosmetics tailored to their specific needs but we also provide a platform to communicate who we are and what’s important to us” malaysia tatler . march 2016
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Two Halves of a Whole Amira would not have gotten to where she is today without the support of her fiancé. Cameron, who is the force behind the successful IT-centric start-up TradeGecko, is older than her by six years. “He’s there with me every step of the way, imparting whatever wisdom he has collected from his personal experiences. Luckily for me, he has also read every book there is about e-commerce and entrepreneurship,” she says. Being a technological whiz, Amira also turns to her husband-to-be when it comes to matters in the IT arena. “He’s had a huge hand in the development of our tech infrastructure!” she adds. While she excels at business strategies and the bigger picture, Amira admits that she tends to be overwhelmed easily by minutiae details. “Cam always sits me down, forces me to breathe and helps by talking me through my plans! Not only is he focused, disciplined and honest, he is also committed to personal growth, thus I am inspired by him to be the best I can be. It certainly helps in the pursuit of my dreams, with him both as my role model and number one fan!”
“At this stage, we are still brand new but we are starting to gain a lot of traction. We have a small following but they are a dedicated bunch! Every day I have girls telling me, through our Instagram, how much they love the products” A New Zealand native, Cameron is immensely intelligent and laidback at the same time. When I met him, I could see why Amira leans on him. I could tell this was a man who would not back down despite the obstacles in his way. They first met at a mutual friend’s housewarming party, during which sparks flew after they were introduced. Cameron knew she was ‘The One’ straight away and made his move without hesitation. “Twenty-five minutes after we met, I told her I could see myself settling down with her. I’d like to add that being that forward with a woman is a bad idea!” says Cameron. Amira smiles at the memory and adds, “When he mentioned he saw a future for us, I admitted I was scared and refused to give him my number. When he popped up on my Facebook later, I decided to add him as a friend. I am so glad I did.” For Amira, realising he was the one for her occurred after their first fight. “The way he handled me after our disagreement made me realise how thoughtful he is. He doesn’t lose his temper but instead listens and discusses solutions. I think it showed me that he would not only be a great husband but he would always work on being the best partner for me.” True to his word at their first meeting, he proposed to her while they were hiking to the top of a dormant volcano in New Zealand during a visit to his family. It took awhile for the proposal to sink in and when it did, she said yes. As per local custom, the couple underwent a formal traditional engagement ceremony last year, during which a wedding date was set for this month. Being low-key, the couple are having a small-scale wedding, which includes a private akad nikah ceremony in KL followed by a small reception in Clifford Pier at Fullerton Bay Hotel. They both separately admit that they are looking forward to taking the next step together as husband and wife—and building a family together. “Maybe even world domination,” joked Amira, whose playful demeanour peeks out when she is in the company of Cameron. With the support of the man who loves and believes in her, coupled with her fearless personality, those prescient words might just become a reality.
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BRIDE-TO-BE March is a big month for Amira. Not only is she launching new product lines for her brand, she is also taking the next step in her personal life by tying the knot with Cameron
Photography Hanz Lee
Wonder Women FOUR WOMEN SIT DOWN TO TALK TO TIEN CHEW ABOUT THE DYNAMICS OF FEMALE LEADERSHIP AND THEIR PERSONAL DEFINITIONS OF SUCCESS
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arch 8 is the date set for International Women’s Day which celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women the world over. This year’s theme is ‘pledge for parity’, a subject that is becoming increasingly conscious in the minds of many Malaysians across generations. Speaking with four influential women leaders was not only a rare opportunity but also an enlightening and engaging experience; one that has revealed how crucial it is to push for women’s rights in both the domestic and professional environments, especially in the administrative sector. These four ladies prove that above all, the fight for equality is necessary to achieve balance and harmony.
Malisse Tan looks stunning wearing a Piaget Altiplano watch and Possession pendant
“I’m working towards that bigger picture where what I’ve done in my life will have a positive impact on the people around me and leaves a lasting memory in my absence”
MALISSE TAN ENTREPRENEUR AND REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS STRATEGY AT MELTWATER
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An Individual’s Abilities Determine Their Success, Not Gender.
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arm and friendly, Malisse Tan is a young hardworking gogetter who spent the better part of her life growing up in New Zealand. Born a Malaysian, she eventually made her way back to the country after working in Auckland and Hong Kong for Meltwater, a media monitoring company. With Meltwater, she currently serves as a regional director of business strategy. She describes herself as a Chiwi (Chinese Kiwi) and a hybrid, as having lived in both New Zealand and Malaysia has exposed her to the many merits of the Asian and Western worlds. The eldest of three girls in the family, she chose to study business after the entrepreneurial bug bit her at the age of 15, a result from reading Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad and witnessing her parents’ own entrepreneurial endeavours. Tan is also a partner with Lean In Malaysia. What are the five key traits that you would associate with your personal journey in holding a leadership position? Humility. It is really important to be humble as a leader because stepping up in your career doesn’t mean you know it all. Continuously learning; as you move forward your learning curve should be steep and it should never stop. The next is to seek feedback. As a leader, we shouldn’t be afraid to ask for feedback from the people around us and in our team. Be relatable; it’s important that as you move upwards you shouldn’t sit on a high horse. Share your stories, both victories and the challenges so that others can connect with you. The last is about building personal relationships with people. Being a leader shouldn’t only be restricted with your employees, but it also extends to your community. Show genuine interest and get them to know you as much as you want to know them. What is your definition of success? Have you achieved it? To me success is not just one thing and it can come in different forms and sizes. Yes, I have achieved milestones but really at the end of the day, I’m working towards that bigger picture where what I’ve done in my life will have a positive impact on the people around me and leaves a lasting memory in my absence. malaysia tatler . march 2016
What do you think are the issues that impede women’s career progressions? It first starts with themselves. I’ve noticed that some females whom I have met, have self-doubt. They wonder, “Can I actually leave my job and start my own business? What would others think of me?” It’s that question of having it all—can women work full-time running businesses and also have kids? It’s tough, I don’t have children yet, but I know it can be done. If my mother can do it and so many other women can do it (even without the help of maids) it can be done. What helps is if you have a supportive husband and an understanding management team. What is your view on gender roles in today’s society with regard to the domestic and public environments? With an aerial view, I can tell that there is still a long way to go for Malaysia, although I certainly think that there has been some improvement. I’ve been very fortunate with my family, my marriage and my company, that there is gender equality in all. The company culture is very important in creating the right environment for development and we’re always talking about culture and supporting one another. To us (Meltwater) there are no differences between a male or female managing director; if you have earned it, you can become a managing director. What would you say are some of your strengths and weaknesses? I’m not a patient person, however it’s something I’ve learned to address, with the help of my husband who is the more patient one. I also need to learn how to be more flexible when plans don’t go accordingly. In terms of strengths, I am someone who is very ambitious and very driven. If you really want something, your actions will adapt to that goal but you got to first want it really bad. I’m also a people person who loves meeting new people and getting to know them as much as I can. What are your thoughts on male and female leadership? Men are more pragmatic, a little more black and white, whereas women tend to focus on personal relationships a bit more. Though at Meltwater we are rather unorthodox and lead with equality, meaning that we focus on the individual and do not base judgements on gender differences.
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Lead Like A Parent. Do Not Be Afraid To Let Others Surpass You.
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ith a wealth of financial experience to her name, Raja Teh Maimunah is the CEO of Hong Leong Islamic Bank and Digital Innovation Transactional Banking of Hong Leong Bank Berhad. A law graduate from the University of East London, she soon learnt after her pupillage that law wasn’t her calling. Always good with numbers, she gave it a shot and joined an accounting firm doing corporate finance and eventually transitioned into the banking industry. A selftaught and tenacious individual, her endeavours ultimately saw her climb the corporate ladder where she currently sits as a capable leader. She is also a wife and loving mother to three girls and enjoys spending time with her family doing outdoor activities. Possessing a generous heart, she also gives back to society by volunteering at the Pertiwi soup kitchen on Fridays with her daughters and doing her part as the organisation’s youngest exco member. What are the five key traits that you would associate with your personal journey in holding a leadership position? Endurance, which is why I enjoy endurance sports like rock climbing, mountain biking and taking long hikes. Patience is another and so is faith, because when the going gets tough you have to believe that there is a higher cause for you. The next is honesty because even if you think you can get away with it, what matters is whether or not you are able to sleep at night and look yourself in the mirror. Some people may not believe in the afterlife or retribution, but even if you are someone who lives in the here and now, can you always live looking over your shoulder? The last trait is giving, you must continuously give back. You really have to adopt a giving in silence attitude. Charity must come from part of your inner self and there are many ways to being charitable. What is your definition of success and have you achieved it? A successful person is someone who lives his or her life comfortably, without wanting for anything and has a family that is close-knit. They should also be someone who contributes to their community or society as a whole. If you ask me where I seem to be, I’m not comfortable using the word ‘successful’ to describe it, but I think that I’m extremely blessed.
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What personal philosophies do you believe in? I would say that you must have perseverance and endurance. There is no such thing as the grass being greener on the other side; that’s something that I truly believe. You need perseverance because you have to see the worst and the best cycles in any kind of industry that you are in. Only by being able to come out from the bottom can one truly rise. The test of leadership is managing a crisis; if things are difficult you can’t just pack up and go. As for managers, you should adopt a nurturing attitude. When you nurture and you build your team, you’re most likely to get a group of people supporting you. One should also never step on someone else to get to where you want to go. When the option was to kick a friend so that I could go up, I always walked away. What do you think we need to do in order to overcome the challenges of female leadership? My biggest challenge was during my early days as a young executive and when I had a very young child. Not being able to afford help, it was very difficult. I had to either send my daughter to my mother’s house or had to bring her to work in a basket. If we could institute systems like the Scandinavians, who are pioneers in terms of providing facilities to mothers, it would be less disruptive and helpful. Having babies is part of nation building; if we don’t look at that as an important piece of growing the nation, then we’re not facilitating these women back into the work force. What are your thoughts on male and female leadership? We are made differently and women can bring different things to the table but when you put men and women together you could have more effective results. Women by nature are designed to be more nurturing and therefore female leadership creates a caring approach whereas male managers tend to be more commanding. That being said, you do have women who behave like men and men who embrace some nurturing skills, but the real difference I feel is that men tend to be bigger risk takers and women are a bit more contemplative when it comes to risk. My management style is no different to my parenting style, it is one and the same. It’s not about being autocratic yet neither is it about being democratic. When it comes to your child, you want them to grow and do well, so male or female, managers must do the same. You must make sure that you’re building your team and you must allow your people to outgrow you. malaysia tatler . march 2016
Raja Teh Maimunah flashes a warm smile and sports a Piaget Limelight Stella watch and Possession pendant
“If you ask me where I seem to be, I’m not comfortable using the word ‘successful ’ to describe it, but I think that I’m extremely blessedd ”
RAJA TEH MAIMUNAH CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF HONG LEONG ISLAMIC BANK
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Fight For What You Believe In. Pick Your Battles Wisely.
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omen and men each have their gender roles in society, which is this good-natured professor’s area of expertise. The ex-head of gender studies at the University of Malaya, Dr Shanthi Thambiah grew up as the only daughter with three other brothers in Penang, and learnt most of her values and principles from her mother, whom she describes as a very strong and capable woman. Although she started her tertiary education in Southeast Asian studies, she found her calling in anthropology as she fell in love with the idea of telling stories about cultures. She obtained her first degree at the University of Malaya, her masters in social anthropology from Cambridge and her PhD at the University of Hull in the UK. Living and growing up in a multicultural society, she believes that we have to be inclusive of diversity and respect the differences in people’s ways and views. What are the five key traits that you would associate with your personal journey in holding a leadership position? The most important is inclusiveness. You also have to be democratic. Consensus building: by getting people to come together to agree. Care is also important as you must care for the work that you do and for the people that you work with. Finally, flexibility. Accept that sometimes things will not work out the way you want it to and that it may actually work out for the better. What is your definition of success? Have you achieved it? I still have a lot of room to grow and to move further up, but I feel that I’m very satisfied and contented with what I do because I like it. If success means that you enjoy what you’re doing then I’m successful, but if success means moving up the ladder then it means I still have room to grow. What are your views on gender equality? It is something that you cannot dispute or dismiss anymore. It is politically incorrect to do so, in the same way you cannot accept racism or sexism. Everybody thinks of human rights as something very righteous and fundamental so we should also accept that women’s rights are also equally vital to human
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rights. If you don’t give equal rights to women, it would mean an end to human rights and it’s counterproductive. Gender equality is something that you cannot say is bad for society, or is creating instability in the family—that is not a progressive way of thinking. We should hold on to basic values but there are certain archaic gender values that are unjust, unfair and discriminatory which must be challenged and changed. What are the issues that impede women’s career progressions? It is still being responsible for the home. If you have a young family it is quite difficult for you to take on responsible decision making positions that require you to travel or spend long hours at work. We need a change that sees more involvement from men in providing care at home, as women tend to feel guilty if their children aren’t being taken care of. Care responsibilities take a huge toll on women’s careers as they would often prioritise the family over their career. If they are confident that care isn’t going to be compromised, then they will take up the challenge. There is also discrimination in the labour force such as prioritising men over women and statistics can prove this. In the last decade we have had more female graduates entering the work force but in terms of labour force participation we generally see more men than women in the professional sphere. Have you personally faced any gender bias in the workplace? How about in your own personal life? My first promotion was a struggle but I fought and this is not the norm. I took my superior to task for denying me that promotion. In the late ’80s, I also experienced gender based discrimination during my undergraduate studies when I was denied my first class because of a particular stereotype. I feel that on both counts it was more an issue of gender than race. What do you think we need to do in order to overcome the challenges of female leadership? You don’t accept discrimination and you have to confront it. You don’t have to fight the way I fought, you must choose your battles carefully. If you have a higher chance in succeeding in that battle then choose to fight off that discrimination. You have to be strategic. We are governed by values and principles we hold dear and if it doesn’t have implications on harming others then you can take on that fight. malaysia tatler . march 2016
The friendly Dr Shanthi Thambiah dons a minimalist Piaget Altiplano watch
“You don’t accept discrimination and you have to confront it. You don’t have to f ight the way I fought, you must choose your battles carefully”
DR SHANTHI THAMBIAH ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF GENDER STUDIES AND DEPUTY DEAN OF POSTGRADUATE STUDIES AT THE FACULTY OF ARTS & SOCIAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA
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Datin Linda Ngiam wears a Piaget Emperador cushionshaped watch and Possession bracelet
HAIR: KENNETH PAUL CHEE FROM A CUT ABOVE; MAKEUP: ZAMRI ZAINOL USING LANCÔME
“These successes tasted sweeter because I never lost my principles to reeachh where I am”
DATIN LINDA NGIAM FORMER GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE STAR
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Do Not Compromise Your Ethics. Your Successes Will Taste Sweeter As A Result.
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idely known for her long and fruitful career at The Star, Datin Linda Ngiam is a gentle and high-spirited lady who spent 26 years with the local daily and retired as the group managing director and chief executive officer. She also sits on a number of boards in well-known local organisations. As an individual, a mother and a wife, she strongly believes that there is no substitute for hard work and no short cuts, confident that her own abilities and merits would bring her success. She stresses that while money is important, reputation is something that money can never buy and that one should take heed that nothing comes easy in life. What are the five key traits that you would associate with your personal journey in holding a leadership position? Multitasking; I definitely think women multitask better than men. Men tend to be very single-minded and focused as they like to do one thing at a time. Being able to adapt is another trait. I’m extremely adaptable, meaning that I adjust myself to the various roles that I have to play. I also believe in going the extra mile. The way I look at it, any job that is given to me I will do it because I will own the knowledge learnt in doing so. Be result oriented; it’s important to keep your eye on the goals of the company and that of your staff. The last thing is always remaining grateful, as I am for my bosses, my staff, my family and especially those who have taken a bet on me. My duty is to show the world that they have made the best possible decision by believing in me. What is your definition of success? Have you achieved it? I didn’t come from a privileged family but we had enough money to get by. My mother was uneducated and my father was a man of the world who brought back the bacon, and I think I absorbed the best of both worlds. I had a mother who played a really conservative traditional role and brought up four kids relying on herself. I believe most of the traits that I have came from my mother—her resourcefulness, hard work, tolerance and strength. We lived in an English bungalow together with many families and kids, which is where I learnt interpersonal skills to deal with people. I also didn’t understand gender differences because there were so many boys and girls that played together. My upbringing and malaysia tatler . march 2016
my background has allowed me to reach where I am today, and I call that a success. When I was younger, my father used to take me to the movies and I would always stand in front of the tidbit store and stare at a tube of Smarties chocolate which I never had money to buy. At the age of six or seven, I told myself that I would one day afford it. When I first travelled overseas, I bought a whole lot of Smarties at the airport from the money I got working and that was my first taste of success. These successes tasted sweeter because I never lost my principles in reaching where I am. What are your views on gender equality? The lines are blurring and we are definitely headed in the right direction. Women are forging their way in many fields—education is a big example. Just look at where women are heading in high positions in most parts of the world. Having worked with men and women bosses, I find women work really hard and rely to a great extent on their intuition whereas men try to find a quicker, smarter way to achieve results. This could be due to a number of cultural factors but I think that men’s ego can be their downfall. Empathy and compassion are more prevalent in women but I believe that it’s slowly changing. None of my male bosses ever treated me any differently from the men and I’m grateful for they taught me a lot of things. What qualities do you admire in a person? Whatever qualities I believe in, I would look for in others. I admire people who have started out at a disadvantage, whether economically or physically, and still persevere and live life to the fullest. I also admire those with the entrepreneurial spirit, especially youngsters who take a no holds barred approach and their risk-taking endeavours. What would you say are some of your strengths and weaknesses? One of my weaknesses is that I am anxious by nature. I wouldn’t say that I would allow people to bully me but I’m willing to use other longer means, such as persuasion, to win them over. I’m also not aggressive and I tend to over-analyse. On the other hand, I have a very strong sense of ethics and I’m very tolerant, open-minded and patient. I do not fluster when it comes to facing a crisis and I remain very levelheaded and calm. I also have a very high EQ and that comes in handy when you have a staff strength of over two to three thousand people. You must seem to them as an approachable boss.
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TOWERING FIGURES Switzerland-based photographer Namsa Leuba’s image Umfana from her Kingdom of Mountains series. Opposite page: Nigerian artist Peju Alatise’s High Horses
OUT OF AFRICA
FORGET THE TIRED OLD STEREOTYPES ATTACHED TO AFRICA, WRITES MELISSA TWIGG. THE CONTINENT’S ARTISTS HAVE LONG ENGAGED IN A SOPHISTICATED VISUAL DIALOGUE THAT IS FINALLY RECEIVING THE INTERNATIONAL ATTENTION IT RICHLY DESERVES
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continent’s 54 nations] we have created an important sense of community, enabled galleries to have easy conversations and artists to feel less like outsiders, and pushed forward a continent that is waking up to presenting its talent to the world.” Another turning point was last year’s Venice Biennale, which was curated by an African for the first time—Nigeria’s Okwui Enwezor, who ensured more African artists (21) were represented than ever before. Art Basel in Miami Beach also added impetus last year by staging talks on the emerging African art market, and in November the British Museum dedicated a floor to a three-month exhibition of West African art. Africa is set for even greater exposure this year. Tunisia’s Selma Feriani Gallery is attending Art Basel in Hong Kong for the first time, joining South Africa’s Goodman Gallery, which made its debut last year. But the real coup for African art is the Armory Show, COMING TOGETHER Left: South African artist Lawrence Lemaoana’s I Did Not Join the Struggle to be Poor in embroidered fabric. Below: Last year’s 1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair at Somerset House, London
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here’s a scramble for Africa happening right now. The contemporary art market is going crazy for us and the thing is, I can’t decide if it’s the answer to all our prayers or if it’s almost distasteful,” says Jonathan Garnham, founder of Blank Projects, a collective and gallery space in Cape Town for southern Africa’s emerging artists. It all happened so quickly. When asked about African art five years ago, people could possibly name Ghanaian sculptor El Anatsui, and then they just pictured a jumble of masks and wooden statues. Certainly nothing worth boarding a plane for. But when the art world finally turned its long overdue attention to Africa, it found a continent brimming with talented artists producing work deserving of international acclaim, some of it destined for the Thomas Heatherwick-designed Museum of Contemporary Art Africa due to open in Cape Town late this year. Touria El Glaoui, the daughter of Moroccan artist Hassan El Glaoui, played an important role in that change of perception. In 2013, she launched the 1:54 Contemporary African Art Fair, which takes place in New York in May and in London in October. “I knew a fair was necessary when I realised there was nowhere for African artists to come together and present their work,” she says. “I think with 1:54 [a reference to the
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NEW FRONTIER Ibrahim El-Salahi’s Reborn Sounds of Childhood Dreams III. The Sudanese painter is often seen as the godfather of African modernism
“ TH IS SUD D E N I N T E R E S T I N AF R I C A I S C O NNE CT E D T O T H E D YN AMI C S O F T H E ART WOR L D A N D T H E H U N G E R T O FI N D TH E NE XT B I G T H I N G. I T WAS AS I A, N O W IT’ S A FRIC A — I T A L L FA LLS U N D E R T H E QUE ST FO R S OM E T H I N G N E W”
which takes place in New York in the first week of March. Each year its Focus section highlights a specific region and this year it’s Africa. “The continent and its diaspora are often neglected in all forms of culture, and I consider this to be a travesty as Africa is incredibly rich,” says curator Yvette Mutumba, one of the two Focus directors for 2016. “I’m delighted that this is changing, but I also know this sudden interest in Africa is connected to the dynamics of the art world and the hunger to find the next big thing. It was Asia, now it’s Africa—it all falls under the quest for something new. What I keep trying to say is that the art has been there all along; it’s the people who need to play catch-up.” While the new focus on Africa is translating into sales, prices are still lower than for the art of other emerging markets, which makes this the ideal time to start a collection. Bonhams London holds a Modern & Contemporary African Art Sale in May and October each year, having created the category in 2007. It is still the only big auction house to have a dedicated African sale. Although its figures are still small in relation to other emerging markets (its most recent sale totalled just under £2 million), the numbers are growing exponentially. “Africa is the last frontier of art, so this hype doesn’t surprise me in the least,” says Bonhams’ director for contemporary African art, Giles Peppiatt. “As the market for Chinese art has faltered, so the market for African art has soared. The attention it’s getting is, of course, exciting, but what’s interesting is that it’s not just from people with a specific interest in African art. The buyers are men and women
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with mainstream contemporary collections— people who were buying a Jeff Koons last month but who now want a Chéri Samba. This illustrates quite how impressive a lot of the art is, but it’s rather unusual as, in most emerging markets, China or Russia for example, the art markets are initially dominated by newly rich domestic buyers. It’s only after they have paved the way that galleries in Europe or America start to pay attention. Africa is certainly bucking that trend.” Africa was always going to be complicated. The category contemporary African art encompasses 54 countries, 1.1 billion people, more than 2,000 languages, thousands of tribes, and a near equal split between Islam and Christianity. How is it possible to trace a single theme or discuss a single economic or political change under such a blanket term? “When we say a sale is about African art, we’re not attaching any values to it. We’re simply allowing our buyers to know which catalogue to pull off the shelf,” says Peppiatt. “The problem comes when buyers start asking for art that looks stereotypically African, whatever that means. Our solution to that is to only sell work that we believe has a strong independent and authentic value, and is not pandering to any outdated notions of what African art should look like.” Arguably more than any other continent, Africa is consistently subject to stereotypes, which means there is still an onus on African artists to have a position on one of the many issues long associated with the continent, be it rape, poverty, war, Aids or Ebola. “This is the aspect of the recent hype that I find
slightly distasteful,” says Garnham, whose Blank Projects is exhibiting in Focus at the Armory Show. “The international market can’t help but exoticise Africa, but by doing that, they turn it into the ‘other’ and create a narrow frame of what an African artist can be and what they should be commenting on. For example, I’ve gone through countless portfolios with European curators and they will often only look at work by black artists, because white South African artists don’t fit into whatever box they need them to be in.” Kapwani Kiwanga, whose work will form the central exhibit of Focus, has long debated this point in her art. For her Afrogalactica trilogy, she has invented and occupies the character of an anthropologist from the future who explores vast fields of knowledge relating to Afrofuturism. “I am a Canadian citizen living in Paris, but because of my African heritage, people expect me to have a specific position on life and art,” she says. “So I have used that prejudice in my work, melding together fiction and truth in my installations to illustrate the extent to which the world vision of Africa is fantasy.” Turiya Magadlela, an artist from Soweto, Johannesburg, is taking to the Armory Show a series of haunting canvases and complex installations made from torn pantyhose. “I was drawn to the range of colours and textures I found in flesh-coloured stockings and I wanted to see what the effect would be if I replaced the ribbon and ropes typically used in children’s games with broken pieces of women’s underwear. It’s about fragility, transparency, beauty, pain, distortions and liberation of women,” she says. Johannesburg also has one of the world’s highest rape rates, and the fact that these canvases and “playgrounds” look like a sea of broken women’s flesh cannot be a coincidence. Violence and unrest is also a theme of Guinean-born artist Namsa Leuba, who lives between South Africa and Switzerland. In her arresting photography, she comments on the reality of life in modern Africa, and most recently on the effect the antiapartheid struggle of the 1970s and ’80s has had on the youth of today. “It’s
A RGUA BLY M OR E T H A N AN Y OTHE R CON T I N E N T, AF R I C A IS CO NS I S T E N T LY S UBJ E C T T O STER E OT Y P E S
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IN THE PINK Above: Three pieces from Johannesburgbased Turiya Magadlela’s series I Never Made Swan Lake. Left: Dandelia #1 by Ivorian photographer Paul Sika
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OPENING UP Left: J’aime la Couleur by Chéri Samba from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Below: Ghanaian sculptor El Anatsui’s New World Map
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GETTING AHEAD An untitled piece from photographer Namsa Leuba’s Cocktail series. Right: Tunisian artist Lina Ben Rejeb’s Comme il vous Plaire is created with notebooks
are representing,” says El Glaoui. London-based galleries represent more African artists than the galleries of any other city. Toby Clarke of the Vigo Gallery in Mayfair will be taking work by Sudanese painter Ibrahim El-Salahi to the Armory Show. “I had, to my disgrace, not known his work until Frances Morris of the Tate Modern showed it to me. But as soon as I saw it, I was blown away,” says Clarke. “I’ve been representing him ever since and roughly half the work we sell goes to museums—including the Tate Modern and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Curators are now far more inclusive and are taking a more sophisticated world view of the history of art, realising that the American and Euro-centric view that has dominated their collections is limiting. They are now playing catch-up, hence the demand from museums, particularly for Ibrahim, who is seen as the godfather of African modernism by many.” Some African artists finally hang alongside their European, US and Asian contemporaries. Chéri Samba from the Democratic Republic of Congo is at the Pompidou Centre. South African William Kentridge and Ghana’s El Anatsui hang at the British Museum. And as the world opens its eyes to more African artists, we will all benefit from understanding a bit more about life on the continent. “I have learned that if you don’t speak, you let other people define what Africa is,” says Magadlela. “We can’t change Africa, and we can’t change our Africanness, but we can change the way people think of us. And that is important.”
“ I HAVE LE A R N E D T H AT I F Y OU DO N ’ T S P E A K, Y O U LE T O T HE R P E OP L E D E F I N E WH AT AF RICA IS ” about the reappropriation of a cultural and social identity of black people after the years of apartheid,” she says. “Zulu kids burning their passports is just one example of this new generation trying to build their future and find their place in a contradictory society, where the West and Africa are trying to coexist.” Other commentators on violence include Mozambican sculptor Gonçalo Mabunda, who creates objects from weapons recovered at the end of his country’s civil war, and Ivorian artist Aboudia, who took refuge in a basement studio from heavy fighting in 2011. During that time Aboudia started making his largescale, brutally energetic paintings, which combine a superficial innocence with a dark interior world. “While the vitality of his style recalls Basquiat, the darker undercurrents and themes describe a battlefield straight out of Goya,” says Jack Bell of London’s Jack Bell Gallery, which represents Aboudia. Which brings us to the role governments have played in their countries’ marginalisation from the art world, governments that have repeatedly been asked to put more resources into local culture—to no avail in most cases. Artists need to find representation abroad because no money is invested locally, as illustrated by the fact just four African countries sent galleries to 1:54 last year—five from South Africa and one each from Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Morocco. And it is a similar story for the Armory Show. “We are just touching the tip of the iceberg with what we malaysia tatler . march 2016
W H AT TO B U Y NOW Bonhams’ Giles Peppiatt expects prices for these artists to soar in the next five years
£100,000 or more William Kentridge (above) El Anatsui Yinka Shonibare Ibrahim El-Salahi
£30,000 to £100,000 Chéri Samba (above) Abdoulaye Konaté Pascale Marthine Tayou
£10,000 to £30,000 Goncalo Mabunda Aboudia Paa Joe
ENCOUNTERS: ART BASEL IN HONG KONG Running from March 24 to 26, Art Basel in Hong Kong promises an exciting, diverse landscape of cutting-edge works by leading and emerging artists. Some 239 galleries from 35 countries will be represented. Top international galleries, including Hauser & Wirth and Gagosian, will be showing work alongside Asia’s best, such as Pearl Lam Galleries. This year also sees the debut of Tunisia’s Selma Feriani Gallery, the first African gallery outside South Africa to be part of the show. A highlight will be Encounters, an exhibition of large museum pieces curated by Alexie Glass-Kantor. It includes work by Indonesia’s Febie Babyrose and Herbert Hans, and the Philippines’ Ruddy Hatumena.
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IMAGE: AFSO O
FORM AND FUNCTION Recently named designer of the year, André Fu shares his creative insights—p. 208
LIFE M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
Wine, food, culture, travel and philanthropy
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FOOD
SPIRITS
WEALTH
GREAT ESCAPES
THE LAST WORD
Beauty and the Beast dazzles with epicurean fare and well-crafted cocktails
Chivas Regal’s master distiller talks about their latest and exciting chapter
There’s a new investment plan that promises money in the bag
Examine some of the most artful and gorgeous hotels on planet Earth
Get the most out of Los Angeles from a well-known British footwear designer
LIFE | FOOD
Thorough Fare
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ucked within Ben’s Independent Grocer in Plaza Batai, the staircase entrance to Beauty and the Beast is unassuming, which contrasts with the restaurant’s contemporary appearance. As you head up the stairs, the first thing that comes to view is a lovely marble bar counter. To the left of the bar, a warm and sleek lounge area awaits those wishing to relax before or after the meal, and to the right is the main dining area, featuring a nice mix of wooden furniture and glassware. The restaurant’s design allows light to permeate throughout and when mixed with the eclectic decor of the establishment, creates an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Soon after taking our seats, the arrival of the first dish signalled the start of our meal. A white plate featuring a gorgeous fluffy puff containing escargots made for instant
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temptation. Crumbly, chewy and well buttered, the pastry itself was tasty on its own. When paired with the hidden escargots however, it made it all the more ambrosial. Take your forkfuls with a generous smearing of the buttery parsley and garlicky sauce, adding not only additional flavours but also aromatic whiffs. Served with a small side of greens to balance out the taste of escargot, this appetising dish is a definite crowd-pleaser for those fond of snails. Over the course of our meal, we were given a selection of cocktails to sample, showing off the in-house mixologist’s skills at serving a menu of enjoyable alcoholic beverages. Order the natural molecular concoction for a worthy beverage to go with the escargot puff. Light and refreshing, this gin-based cocktail has grapefruit, lime and Cointreau to wash away the lingering taste of garlic and escargot, thus effectively cleaning the palate and making it a
SWEET ENDING
The warm ricotta tart leaves a sharp and zingy taste on your palate— a good way to end your meal
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WORDS: TIEN CHEW; PHOTOGRAPHY: STEVEN SUM
Recently opened Beauty and the Beast at Plaza Batai delights with tantalising food and creative cocktails
SURF’S UP Those craving for lobster can get their fix at Beauty and the Beast. The whole grilled lobster is perfectly charred and scrumptious
SIDES TO SIP Among others, these cocktails will get the night going in the right direction
TEMPTING THE SENSES Both the escargot puff and black angus grass-fed tenderloin (above) will surely entice the diner’s taste buds
good choice for the start of the meal. Starting out on such a high point, it was welcoming to know that the next dish, whole grilled lobster, was also equally tasty. Served with clarified lemon butter, thick steak fries and a side salad, the lobster was perfectly grilled and definitely of high quality. The crustacean’s meat was succulent, sweet and absolutely delicious, giving off a smoky aftertaste, thanks to the grill. Although the claws weren’t massive, it arrived perfectly declawed and ready to eat, making for another plus point. The steak fries were an adequate side to accompany the well-cooked shellfish, while the salad made for a much needed balance of fibre. Pair the lobster with the sea salted wine cocktail for a true seaside experience, minus the hassle of travelling to a beach. Light, easy and salty from the sprinkling of sea salt, this sauvignon blanc-based cocktail retains its full bodied wine taste and makes for a nice companion to the lobster main. malaysia tatler . march 2016
RUM ’N MELONS White rum, fresh watermelon juice, honeydew, lemon juice, sugarcane syrup and angostura bitters make for an extremely pleasant drink. Well balanced, refreshing, fruity and very easy to go down, sip away the night and enjoy the drink with your mates. GEN Y MARTINI A fantastic twist on a classic cocktail, this Indian-inspired concoction is invigorating and likeable. Neither too dense nor too light, this drink gives off a nice spicy kick thanks to the pickled chili and chili flakes which provide that extra punch!
Although the drink is salty yet refreshing, it balances its flavours out masterfully for a welcoming taste. Already having the surf, the next dish allowed the meal to come full circle by adding the turf. Grilled black angus grassfed tenderloin with beef jus and truffle béarnaise. The beef was juicy and chewy with a pinkish hue in the middle and its sides were well seared and seasoned with black pepper. The only qualm about the dish was the slight dryness of the bigger cuts when taken without the provided sauces. Thankfully though, the size of the slab of meat was just the right portion to leave some room for dessert. For a nice cocktail to go along with your steak, order the restaurant’s signature cocktail—the Beauty and the Beast. Simple yet bold, it comprises bourbon whisky, homemade orange syrup, bitters and torched beef bacon. The fattiness, smokiness and saltiness of the bacon works surprisingly well with the whisky, resulting in a fascinating and flavourful play in the mouth. Finish your meal with a warm ricotta tart with citrus salad, a crumbly yet firm pastry dessert that is creamy and tangy. The dish’s flavours are brought to life by the zingy attributes from the assortment of citrus fruits and dragon fruit puree, and are juxtaposed with the softness of the cheese, resulting in a splendid dish worth saving your tummy for. This establishment, like the others under the BIG Group, is worth going to as it serves good food in an attractive environment and at a strategic location.
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LIFE | WINE
Moreish Moraga
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As always, this cabernet sauvignon blend from the Los Angeles hills needs some time. It’s a little astringent in structure but delivers loads of fascinating berry, spice and chocolate character. Serious. Drink now. 93 points
Distinctive aromas of dark fruits such as currants and blueberry with minerals and charcoal. A full body, super-fine and structured tannins, yet a brilliant and bright fruit undertone. Salty finish. Drink now. 94 points
A balanced, fruity wine with blueberry and light vanilla character. A medium body with round tannins and a fruity finish. Straightforward and easy drinking. Drink now. 90 points
The greatest red ever from here? Shows a solid core of blackberry, blueberry and currants. A full body, very fine tannins and a long, long finish. Super well crafted for the vintage. LA’s greatest wine. Drink or hold. 95 points
Fabulous aromas of crushed grapes, stone and lead pencil. A full body with ultrarefined tannins. Shows incredible panache and zeal. Harmonious and beautiful. Iodine. Umami. Better in 2018. 600 cases made. 94 points
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ILLUSTRATION: ANDY LEUNG
Given the real estate prices in the chic Los Angeles district of Bel Air, it’s hard to believe 3.6 hectares of terraced vineyards exist amid the mansions and swimming pools. But that’s where Moraga Estate, one of the best producers of red in California, lies. The wine is a classic Bordeaux blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and petit verdot. In January, James Suckling tasted the five most recent vintages
OCBC | TATLER FOCUS
The World at Your Fingertips Hassle-free holiday planning is only a phone call away when you use the concierge service offered to OCBC Premier Voyage cardholders
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s the nation’s first metal credit card, the benefits of OCBC Premier Voyage extends beyond its aesthetic brilliance. “It is the ultimate credit card for OCBC premier banking members, suited to their preferred lifestyle in which travel invariably plays a significant part,” explains OCBC Malaysia’s head of consumer financial services, Lim Wyson. This is because cardholders are able to redeem unrestricted voyage miles from over 1,000 airlines, when planning a trip to a destination of their choice. On top of that, travel plans won’t be hindered by pesky blackout dates or expired miles—simply because the miles don’t expire! “We wanted to be able to create something very different, catering to affluent Malaysians. Our journey in doing that actually started with the formation of premier banking as a proposition to serve those individuals, in terms of providing banking advice. The last part that was missing from this was fulfilling their lifestyle needs,” Lim tells us. According to him, the OCBC Premier Voyage card is an evolution, which fulfils the banking and lifestyle needs of clients. In fact, OCBC premier banking members were actually the inspiration behind the creation of the cards. “After talking to our clients, we realised that they travel a lot. They pointed out that normally, the entire process of planning their holiday includes converting their credit card points to miles and then they have to try and book their flight to coincide with the time of their trip,” Lim shares feedback from his clients. According to his clients, the task becomes tedious as some airlines have blackout dates, which restricts their holiday plans. Now, clients can easily redeem their miles and book flights using the OCBC Premier Voyage card and the Voyage Exchange concierge service. The service enables premier banking customers to make all their redemptions and travel plans through a single phone call or email. This includes choosing from a selection of over 900 hotels all over the world, redeemable complimentary limousine transfers, priority access and much more. “I really love the concierge service. In fact, I recently used it for a family trip and was utterly pleased. My kids wanted to go for the Harry Potter studio tour but we couldn’t get any tickets. We tried many means on our own initially, and then I decided to pick up the phone and use the service. Within two days, I received the tickets,” Lim says in amazement. Besides offering an impressive list of benefits not many credit
BANKING ON IT Lim Wyson says that the OCBC Premier Voyage card along with the concierge service make good and reliable travel companions
cards can pull off, the OCBC Premier Voyage card is made of a special material found on the body of aeroplanes. “It is light, but at the same time also very hardy. You can’t break it,” Lim reveals. The revolutionary credit card is available to specially invited individuals as well as those who are using OCBC’s premier banking services. To know more, visit ocbc.com.my. Q
LIFE | WINE
CALIFORNIA DREAMS
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he napa valley is releasing some of the world’s most exciting wines at the moment. I have a slight preference for 2013 over 2012. It’s hard to believe the Napa Valley made better wines in 2013, but it did. The best 2013s show terrific form and tension, giving an impressive freshness to their richness and power. This illustrates a new classicism for the great wines of the region. “This is the vintage of my career,” says Nicolas Morlet, the winemaker at Peter Michael Winery. “The 2013 was the dream vintage for a winemaker. It was when you have balance and beauty in all your wines. The wines can be powerful and elegant at the same time. They are very gastronomic. They have a natural balance in a neoclassic style.” Indeed, I tasted almost 400 wines in the Napa Valley and I was incredibly impressed with the balance and harmony of so many of them. Great examples seem to be in abundance in 2013. I gave perfect scores to no less than seven. See my tasting report, which includes their names, in the preceding pages. All my 100-point wines showed great character and quality that seemed almost to transcend what or who made them. They exhibited perfect quality in ideal proportions like some of the greatest wines I have tasted in my 35 years as a wine critic. Their terrific quality reminded me of such classics as the legendary 1982 Mouton Rothschild and even the 1961 Latour. “I have never tasted anything like it,” said Tod Mostero, the winemaker of the Dominus and Ulysses estates, when discussing his
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perfect 2013 Dominus. “It’s a mysterious element that blows my mind ... It’s beyond definition. It’s like pure spirit or light.” I have a feeling that some of the Napa Valley’s great reds of 2013 will be the same benchmarks in the future. What I really appreciate in so many of the outstanding 2013 Napa reds is their cool, fresh character. They are rich and ripe but an underlying freshness is always there. Winemakers say the vintage had an extremely even growing season, never too hot nor cold. And there were no heat spikes in August or September. The grapes ripened to perfection, with thick skins and small berries to assure plenty of tannins. Crop size was generous. It’s interesting to note that most winemakers said the tannin content of the 2013s was about the same as the great 2012 vintage. Yet the 2012s show much more fruit and delicacy than the 2013s. The 2012s are delicious to drink now and will be throughout their life. “Wine aficionados will gravitate to 2013 but more people will probably prefer 2012,” said Peter Perry of Dana Estates. “If you have to drink a vintage young, then the 2012s are that. And don’t forget the excellent 2014.” I agree with Peter’s evaluation. The 2012s are so delicious to drink now and they really are crowd pleasers in every sense of the word. The few 2014s I have tasted from the barrel are also knockouts. Yet the 2013 is the vintage of Napa Valley red that I want to buy, cellar and drink. So many exciting bottles were made. Buy some. malaysia tatler . march 2016
ILLUSTRATION: ANDY LEUNG
The Napa Valley has produced an embarrassment of riches in recent years, but the 2013 reds really stand out, writes James Suckling
LIFE | SPIRITS
A Masterful Offering
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LIQUID GOLD Chivas Regal Extra is for those looking for a new experience
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hivas regal is a whisky maker of exceptional quality. As more and more drinkers begin to appreciate single malt whiskies, the worldwide demand for the spirit has been steadily increasing, thus creating a problem for whisky makers. To combat the lack of supply, Chivas Regal has created the Extra, carrying no age statement yet retaining all the hallmarks of the label. “Our approach was to evolve and anticipate consumer demands for innovation. As a result we need a flexible approach to creating new flavours beyond our existing range,” says Colin Scott, the brand’s master distiller. Aged in sherry casks from Oloroso sherry bodegas in Spain, the rich, dark and sweet flavours are picked up by Chivas Regal Extra, creating a blend imbued with richness and warmth that is undeniably Chivas Regal, yet comes with additional layers of taste for those seeking more depth in this expression. This results in a whisky that is positioned
between the entry level Chivas Regal 12 and the 18, characterised by a rich fruitiness of ripe pears in syrup balanced with a little tropical flavour of melons, creamy toffee and a hint of ginger and cinnamon. The whisky also contains sweetness from vanilla and caramel as well as a hint of almonds for a bold and flavourful taste experience. “Chivas Regal Extra’s quality lies in its rich and generous taste which we’ve created by maturing some of our finest whiskies in sherry casks,” says Scott. At Chivas, an active new product development team works hand-in-hand with the team of blending experts to develop new products and line extensions. Scott reveals that projects may take 12 to 18 months to complete and he plays an integral role with his team members in coming up with a flavour profile for a new product that stays true to the Chivas name and offers a new expression at the same time. Truly, he is the custodian to the distinguished Chivas Regal house style. malaysia tatler . march 2016
IMAGES: PERNOD RICARD
Chivas Regal’s master blender Colin Scott shares on what makes the Chivas Regal Extra a significant chapter for the brand, writes Tien Chew
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LIFE | DESIGN
In Search of Relaxed Luxury Recently named Designer of the Year by lifestyle trade fair Maison & Objet Asia, AndrĂŠ Fu tells Asih Jenie of a life ruled by form and function since childhood
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DESIGN | LIFE
veryone well versed in the luxury lifestyle as lived in Asia knows of André Fu. The Hong Kong-born, Cambridge-educated architect is the darling of the highend hospitality industry, the creative mind behind some of the most stunning hotels and restaurants in the region— and beyond. He recently launched his own lifestyle brand, André Fu Living, to complement AFSO, the boutique design studio he founded in 2000. Added to his long list of accolades was his crowning this year as Designer of the Year by Maison & Objet Asia, whose March 8-11 trade fair at Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre will see Fu launch a line of luxury bathroom accessories under André Fu Living. I first met Fu at the opening of a Singapore restaurant he designed, the Clifford Pier at the Fullerton Bay Hotel. The venue exudes such sophistication and sensitivity to its history that I was surprised to find the designer had not a single grey hair. Fu’s youthful appearance belies the maturity of his creations. Design has always come intuitively to him. “As a child, I was always interested in making things,” recalls Fu. At the age of seven he loved to draw. His favourite subject was mazes and he’d often give them to classmates to solve. In his teens he became more interested in space. “Maybe not in the way I would articulate it today. But at that time I became intrigued by how a design can change the energy of the environment. How in the one building you have a restaurant on one floor, a spa on another and a shop on another—where the space is actually the same but somehow, when you get onto each floor, the feeling is really, really different.” Fu’s travels and years spent living in Europe opened his eyes to the lifestyles of different cultures—“all of which has empowered me with a better awareness of how people live and how intangible a spatial experience is.” Fu has come a long way since entertaining classmates with his mazes. His sketches today result in 3D outcomes that delight ELEGANT GEOMETRY André Fu (left) and one of his projects, the Fullerton Bay Hotel on Singapore’s waterfront (far left)
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LIFE | DESIGN and awe. AFSO has built a prestigious portfolio with influential brands and visionaries around the world. Notable projects at home include Swire Hotels’ The Upper House, the 2014 pop-up L’Appartement Louis Vuitton at the Kee Club, and last year’s Urban Landscape installation for COS at the Lamma ferry pier in Central. Projects elsewhere include the restaurants Motif and Kioku at the Four Seasons Tokyo and Seoul, and the Opus suite at Maybourne Hotel Group’s The Berkeley, London. Maybourne CEO Stephen Alden says, “André has succeeded in achieving the loftiest ambition in the hotel world: to create places where people want to be. Hotels are about creating the greatest possible quality of life for a guest, and Andre gets that.” As far as describing his design style, Fu refuses to be pinned down. He says his approach has been much the same throughout his career. “It’s really personal. I favour a strong sense of collaboration and finding the means to deliver a story that’s true to the context of the project and the experience that my clients are trying to deliver. My role really is to find the best means to create this vision.” Fu’s work draws the observer in with tactility and an intimate feeling of calmness. “Relaxed luxury” is what Fu calls it. “People like to go to places where they feel comfortable; that’s the core of what luxury in a
“People like to go to places where they feel comfortable; that’s the core of what luxury in a space is for me. It’s not the superficial opulence of it”
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space is for me. It’s not the superficial opulence of it; it’s just that it’s a place that makes you comfortable.” Restaurateur Alan Yau, who has worked with Fu, says, “André’s interest lies in simply creating extraordinary environments for people to work, sleep and eat in.” The year started with a bang for Fu when M&O Asia declared him Designer of the Year. “I’m thrilled,” he says. “M&O is truly a celebration of modern artisanship. It’s a tremendous honour, having that recognition in terms of my contribution to this field.” The timing couldn’t be more serendipitous, as the accolade came on the heels of the launch in December of his lifestyle brand, André Fu Living, or AFL, which boasts a growing collection of items and lines Fu designs in collaboration with selected artisans. “I guess AFL is a natural progression as a designer, especially in the world of what I do, which is so much associated with the word lifestyle,” he says. “As I have done more and more spatial projects, I believe that this is a nice way to challenge myself. With space, we can communicate the experience in layers of design, from the space itself to, say, the malaysia tatler . march 2016
IMAGES: AFSO
MODERN SPACES Clockwise from left: The Opus Suite at The Berkeley, London; Ist Too at the Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul; I by Inagiku at the W Hotel Guangzhou
music, the uniform, to the tableware, but when it comes to an object, it’s more of a challenge because it needs to communicate a similar experience in a single item.” The first product under the AFL banner was Fargesia, a unisex fragrance formulated by Argentinian perfumer Julian Bedel at his Fueguia 1833 scent laboratory in Buenos Aires. Fu believes scent can capture the intangible essence of things and that Fargesia gives a tangible sense of the emotion of the spaces he has designed. Crisp and poetic, it features one of Fu’s favourite materials, bamboo, along with notes of Sichuan pepper, South American ginger and tangy citrus that reflect his Asian sensibilities. The limited edition eau de toilette is presented in an exquisitely crafted bamboo case, the interior of which features a base lined with textured paper that evokes the surface of concrete— one of Fu’s materials of choice. AFL’s inaugural collection also includes the book André Fu, published by luxury imprint Assouline, and a line of beautiful carpets by Tai Ping. The next item in the AFL collection is a range of bathroom accessories malaysia tatler . march 2016
and fixtures developed in collaboration with luxury brand Cooper & Graham, which will debut at M&O Asia. “Many designers have done collaborations with brands but none has presented a holistic view,” says Fu. “The idea for AFL and andrefuliving.com is to create a platform for a holistic lifestyle brand. Each collection is unique in its own right, but when they are seen together on this platform, they present a holistic experience.” For all the work on his plate, Fu says he leads a balanced life, though he never draws a clear line between work and the rest of life. “I’m still really passionate about what I do. Wherever I go, I subconsciously pick things up. It helps that I work in a field that involves travel, leisure and hospitality.” His keen design intuition may not have an off switch, but Fu cherishes the short periods of downtime he has with family and friends, or simply sitting in his two-storey open-plan apartment—“a very unassuming space”—enjoying his art collection and views of Deep Water Bay and Repulse Bay. But not for long—the call to design is too strong to resist.
CLOSER LOOK
The exotic fragrance Fargesia, the first product launched by André Fu Living
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LIFE | WEALTH
Money Bags Forget stocks and shares, says George Hopkin. If you want to score big returns —and look fabulous at the same time— the answer may be close at hand
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Christie’s record for this category. The top sale, US$153,000, was a Matte White Himalaya Niloticus Crocodile Birkin 30 with palladium elements by Hermès. “These figures highlight the fact that the finest and rarest handbags are now considered true collectible items,” says Matthew Rubinger, international director of handbags and accessories at Christie’s. “Fifty-two per cent of lots sold above their high estimate and six of the top 10 handbags realised more than US$100,000.” Specialist online marketplaces have emerged to make the most of the luxury handbags gold rush. In addition to Baghunter, fashionable investors can buy and sell on Portero, Snobswap and Lollipuff. But with so many opportunities and options, where should the first-time handbag investor spend their money? “In terms of investments, it’s best to stick with the classics, like the Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags as well as Chanel’s Flap bags,” says Portero director Alexis Clarbour. “If you’re looking for an entry-level resale bag, try Louis Vuitton Neverfull or Speedy bags. Goyard has also become an excellent investment with their malaysia tatler . march 2016
ILLUSTRATION: FRANCESCA WADDELL
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im kardashian strikes again. The woman with the most photographed derrière in the world and global fashionistas like Victoria Beckham are the latest in a long line of stylish celebrities who have helped the high-end, high-price luxury handbag keep its iconic status—and, it has emerged, its status as an absolute, deadcert investment opportunity. Researchers at luxury online marketplace Baghunter recently set out to compare the performance of three popular forms of investment: gold, the S&P 500 Index and Hermès Birkin bags. Between 1980 and 2015, the S&P 500 returned an average of 11.66 per cent a year, while gold managed just 1.9 per cent. But Birkin handbags’ increase averaged 14.2 per cent, say Baghunter number crunchers. And they point out that unlike the S&P 500 and gold markets, which have fallen as well as risen, the value of Birkin handbags has never dipped, providing year-on-year increases without fail. “Despite warning signs globally for many of the traditional investment markets towards the end of 2015, the luxury bag industry has remained as strong as ever, experiencing continued growth, with demand at an all-time high,” says Baghunter CEO Evelyn Fox. “An investor who manages to get their hands on a brand new Birkin or one in pristine condition can sell it almost immediately for up to 120 per cent of its value on the secondary market. There is simply no other investment that can offer similar prospects.” Some of the world’s most sought-after handbags went under the hammer in December at Christie’s Hong Kong Handbags & Accessories auction, with 95 per cent of lots sold for a total of US$6.2 million, a new
classic Saint Louis totes. We’ve seen drastic retail price increases for all over the past few years, which results in a higher resale value.” Lollipuff co-founder and fashion blogger Fei Deyle says, “Chanel’s bags, particularly the classic designs, steadily rise in value every year, and this has been happening for well over 20 years. Darker coloured bags in durable leathers like caviar leather are particularly popular in resale because they hold up well with use.” But regardless of the brand, it’s important to investigate the collectible market before jumping in, says Peter Loughrey, founder of Los Angeles Modern Auctions, which specialises in 20th-century modern art and design. “Just as you shouldn’t buy a house without checking out the neighbourhood or buy stocks without knowing their history,” he says. “There have been several well-advertised auctions of handbags over the last few years; look at those results and you should see some trends and patterns start to appear.” Where buyers and sellers intend to ply their trade is also a factor. Snobswap co-founder Emily Dang says geographic trends have emerged as millions of fashion-conscious users look for investment opportunities online.
twillys and charms. When these trends emerge in Asia and spread to Europe and the US, Asian resellers can flip their bags for a higher value while it is still a trend in the US.” And while fashion by its very definition can be fleeting, don’t expect the boom in luxury accessories to dissipate any time soon, say those in the know. “Designer clothing, handbags, shoes and accessories are not a fad,” says Deyle. “Designer goods truly are more beautiful and higher quality than lowercost alternatives. Plus, brand recognition is important to many fashion lovers out there. And when bought pre-owned, the prices can be heavily discounted. Personally, I prefer a highend, well-made Chanel bag over 10 random mediocre-quality bags. Quality over quantity is the idea, and there are many people out there who believe the same.” Dang agrees that secondary markets for topend examples have a rosy future. “The resale and consignment industry has been around for decades and online resale is the fastest growing e-commerce trend,” she says. “Given the value appreciation of certain brands and the fact that resale is recession-proof, resale will be around for a very long time.”
“Between 1980 and 2015, the S&P 500 returned an average of 11.66 per cent a year, while gold managed just 1.9 per cent. But Birkin handbags’ increase averaged 14.2 per cent” “For Asia, we are seeing increased demand for the very high-end designers such as Hermès and Chanel, as well as more minimalist designers such as Céline and Bottega Veneta,” says Dang. “In addition, we are seeing demand for contemporary designer brands such as Sandro and Maje.” Portero’s customer base in Asia is also growing, with many of its customers investing in Hermès today whereas they previously had favoured Chanel and Louis Vuitton. “They understand that is where they will see the highest return,” says Portero’s Alexis Clarbour. “Many of our Asia-based customers are interested in bright-coloured bags, mini bags as well as accessories for their bags, like Hermès malaysia tatler . march 2016
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LIFE | TRAVEL
Artful Lodger Wake up next to a masterpiece at one of the world’s finest art hotels
SCULPTURAL DELIGHT LONDON At The Beaumont, you can sleep inside a cuboid sculpture, Room, a multistorey work created by British artist Antony Gormley as an extension to the hotel. From the outside it resembles a crouching man. The 72 art deco-style rooms have lots of polished hardwood and vintage art, and are a stone’s throw from Oxford Street and Selfridges. The hotel was opened last year by Chris Corbin and Jeremy King, the restaurateurs behind The Ivy and The Wolseley, so its own restaurant, The Colony, is a must-visit. It features murals by San Francisco artist John Mattos and offers a 1920s-inspired menu of delectable comfort food. The spa’s Moroccan-style treatments include a body mask of clay from the Atlas Mountains. thebeaumont.com
WARHOL WELCOME ZURICH Andy Warhol’s 11-metre masterpiece Big Retrospective Painting, which hangs over the reception counter, gives arrivals at the Dolder Grand a taste of things to come. Works by Keith Haring, Damien Hirst, Henry Moore and Anish Kapoor, among others, are spread around the 178room Zurich icon. Two wings designed by Foster & Partners opened in 2008, joining the fairy-tale spires and gables of the original 1899 building. The hotel boasts the city’s only two-Michelin-starred dining room, The Restaurant, where works by Dalí, Richter and Pissarro complement chef Heiko Nieder’s modern take on European cuisine. Suites in the original building are traditionally styled with hand-painted wallpaper and white marble bathrooms, while those in the new wings have floor-to-ceiling windows that take full advantage of the panoramic views of the Alps and Lake Zurich. Past guests include Winston Churchill and Elizabeth Taylor. thedoldergrand.com
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HOLIDAY BAROMETER What’s hot and what’s not in the world of luxury jet-setting? CHECKING IN PACK YOUR TRUNK The King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament comes to Anantara Riverside Bangkok this month, gathering teams from around the world to raise money for elephant charities in Thailand.
PRIVATE RETREAT NEW YORK A large Chuck Close tapestry of Kate Moss greets guests arriving at The Surrey, an Upper East Side retreat that feels like the private townhouse of a billionaire art collector. A Jimmie Martin cabinet scrawled with graffiti and a William Kentridge video installation are two more treats in store for art lovers. The hotel, on the corner of Madison Avenue and 76th Street, is just a short walk from the Met, the Guggenheim and other galleries. Its 189 room options include the spaciously lavish Penthouse and Presidential suites, which have access to the hotel’s private roof garden. The ground floor’s Cafe Boulud serves contemporary French cuisine to a cool, artsy crowd, and the rooftop is the perfect spot for cocktails and delightful views. thesurrey.com
VILLAGE TREAT
DNA DETOX Wellness retreats are stepping up their game. The latest trend is tailored programmes for weight loss, rejuvenation and recovery based on an analysis of your DNA before you arrive. JURASSIC JAUNTS One of the lesser-known gems of the Hawaiian islands, Kauai, is set for a busy year, with airlines adding extra daily flights from Honolulu. That means it’s easier than ever to visit the ‘garden isle’ where Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark were filmed.
CHECKING OUT STYLISH WHEELS Statistics show business travellers prefer car-hailing apps such as Uber over local taxis. But don’t forget about luxury car chauffeur services. HR Owen in London provides transfers in Bentleys, RollsRoyces or Maseratis.
FRANCE Picasso, Matisse and Chagall number among the guests to have stayed at Provence’s La Colombe d’Or since Paul Roux switched from farming to hospitality in 1920. In the picturesque village of Saint Paul de Vence, his hotel became a meeting place for artists, who often left their work behind as payment. The dining room, decorated with still lifes by Picasso and Braque, celebrates traditional Provençal dishes. The pool, in a sunlit leafy courtyard, is watched over by an Alexander Calder sculpture, and the rooms have a rustic charm. Run by Roux’s grandson François, the hotel also retains its link to simpler times by taking bookings only by phone or snail mail. la-colombe-dor.com
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ROMANCING THE FAMILY There’s a reason so many resorts have fantastic threeand four-bedroom villas. More and more travellers are going on holiday with all the generations of the family. SPACE RACE Boeing has unveiled its new overhead Space Bins, which greatly expand the carry-on capacity of flights. Hopefully we can say goodbye to that perennial battle for space.
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THE LAST WORD
Los Angeles British footwear designer Nicholas Kirkwood’s eponymous label recently turned 10. He tells us how to make the most of the City of Angels
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hen i first started going to Los Angeles, I used to get frustrated because it’s so spread out and the time zone makes it pretty tough to interact with Europe. Now, however, there are some things I really like about it. I went over in July to design the new collection and, actually, the time zone compared to London means I can just get up in the morning and get all of my emails done by about 10 o’clock. I can then get out to start researching and designing. Los Angeles has become a real creative centre—a lot of designers are moving their studios to the city and the art scene is becoming much more prevalent. Also, being around sunshine every day is quite inspiring for me. An ideal day for me would start with a little hike, perhaps around Runyon Canyon. I’d probably have some healthy breakfast with a wheatgrass shot or whatever health trend is in vogue at the time. I usually stay at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood—I like the area because it encourages you to be both good and bad. If you feel you’ve been too healthy during the day, you can go out and misbehave in the evening. I often rent a house up in the hills to do my designing; I really like to close myself off. The city is amazing—five minutes from West Hollywood you can be up in the hills. LA is pretty spread out, so I only occasionally go down to Venice Beach—it’s definitely amusing with all the muscles and roller skating. It really lives up to the cliché. For shopping, there’s a vintage fair once a month at the Rose Bowl stadium. It’s huge and outdoors, so it can get pretty hot in the summer. But it’s a really amazing place—there’s something for everyone, from vintage furniture to clothes and shoes. It’s fantastic for research, especially if you’re a readyto-wear designer. LA is the best place to buy trainers, too; there are tons of amazing special editions and variations you don’t find in Europe. One of my favourite places to eat is Sushi Park. It’s really unassuming and hidden away above a car park. It may be pretty low key, but they have
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the most incredible sushi—some of the best I have ever tried. For drinks after dinner, the Soho House is a good option; I often go there to meet friends who are in town. We spend a lot of time out for dinner—either at restaurants or at people’s houses—when we are in the city. There are a lot of brilliant museums in LA. You’ve got the LA County Museum of Art, or LACMA, which always has really great exhibitions. Recently, there was an excellent one about mid-century California—all the cars, how people were living and lots of artefacts from the era. I found myself really inspired. Another good show was of the late artist Chris Burden, who created this whole world cityscape based on the 1920s film Metropolis. You could view the structure from the gallery above, and the buildings were made of different materials. I always pack my shorts and flip-flops when I go to LA, as I know I will get the opportunity to dress for warmer weather. I’m sure to pack moisturiser when I travel, as I get dried out travelling on planes and in air-conditioned cars. I always bring back all those fantastic American things for my UK friends. There’s a place called Earthbar where you can get all the multivitamins you could ever dream of. Everything seems so much stronger over there—they have giant pills that you can’t even swallow. malaysia tatler . march 2016