Borneo Talk vol 47

VOL.47 JAN-MAR 2018

ISSN 1823-9625 | PPK380/03/2013(031735)

Visit Miri YEAR 2018

Highlight sarawak foods . tourism

Passion, food, Italy - ingredients for romance

Take someone special to Italy this Valentine’s day.

Balconies made of fine marquetry overlooking the restaurant give the sense of al fresco dining on the streets of Sicily. Romance is infused in every smile and gaze as you dine in true baroque style.

Authentic Italian cuisine served by experienced hands means you can enjoy dinner with your chosen company without worrying about anything except spending quality time.

Book now to reserve your memorable Valentine’s Day experience.

For further information, please contact: Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak. (P.O. Box A298, 93804 Kuching) +6082 258 000 . +6082 425 400 [General], +6082 250 003 [Reservation] info@merdekapalace.com . www.merdekapalace.com

Mr. Adam Yii Mayor of Miri City Council

Visit Miri YEAR 2018 Welcome to Miri, Sarawak!

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his is the city where oil was first discovered in Malaysia.

Today these drilling artefacts are beautifully preserved in our museum here for your viewing pleasure. Just off Miri’s shore you will find abundance of sealife in the shallow reefs. A short hop to Gunung Mulu National Park will land you on the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sarawak. These are just some of the exciting choices for visitors to Miri, Sarawak’s second largest city known for its cosmopolitan nature. And there’s more!

For the past 12 years the annual Borneo Jazz Festival has been the benchmark for music lovers to gather. Some of the most famous and best jazz acts come to this, the longest running jazz festival in the region. The event will be held from May 11-12, and will certainly be the jazz event of the year! The 7th edition of the annual Miri Bike Week will be held from May 4-6, and will include Battle of the Bands, Beauty & the Bike, Mr. Fitness Bike Week huge varieties of food and related events for bike enthusiast from all over Sarawak, Brunei, Sabah and Indonesian Kalimantan. In fact, the month of May is known as the Miri May Fest 2018 where lots of events and happenings are

centred in the city. Exactly 13 years ago in the month of May, Miri was declared a city and we have been celebrating the occasion ever since.

Miri is home to many ethnic groups including Kelabit, Kayan, Kenyah, Iban, Bidayuh, Lun Bawang, Bisaya and others, giving rise to varieties of traditional food that visitors can try.

Naturally the other major groups like Chinese, Malay and Melanau are also prominent here, together with their own specialised food choices. Located just minutes from the South China Sea, Miri is blessed with beautiful beaches where you can enjoy the sun without much worry. Also there are the Niah National Park and Lambir Hills National Park, located within short driving distances; Niah is famous for its historic artefacts found there while Lambir is a heaven for varieties of tree species and waterfalls.

Don’t take our word for it. Come and experience for yourself or with your family the wide choices of fun activities, food and adventures in our city that welcomes everyone!

We have been hosting generations of expatriates and visitors from all over the world and it’s time for you to discover the city for what it really is, in this Visit Miri Year 2018!

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 3

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Luak Bay Esplanade

Niah Cave

Tusan Beach

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he coastal city of Miri lies 496 miles northeast of Sarawak’s capital Kuching and is the second largest city in the State.

It borders Brunei Darussalam and is a short flight away from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The city’s modern landscape reflects its rapid development through the decades, following the discovery of an oil field in the early 1900s.

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Miri - Resort City, is a pleasant city to visit. Its sandy beaches offer a perfect getaway for families, friends, visitors and tourists. One of the most popular beaches is Tanjung Lobang Beach, which offers a perfect opportunity to catch that picture-perfect sunset. For those who want to have a bit of fun, Lutong Beach offers exciting activities like paragliding and paramotor sports. Other famous beaches are Tusan Beach and the absolutely picturesque Hawaii Beach. Further

offshore, Miri Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park is home to splendid coral reefs and their colourful array of sea creatures. Another popular place for sunsets is the famous Luak Bay Esplanade, located 11km south of Miri city centre. Its white sandy beach invites you for a leisurely stroll. Families and friends will find it to be a perfect spot for a weekend getaway, where picnics, barbecues and leisure sports are just some of the activities possible.

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Adventures abound When you’re in Miri, there’s just no end to adventures; a trip to Lambir Hills National Park, less than two hours away by road, is ideal for nature lovers. Here, they can relax in the cool waters of the cascades amidst a lush tropical rainforest. Gunung Mulu National Park, about half an hour by plane, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that simply must be seen and experienced.

Vast caves with spectacular limestone formations and unique cave life, bats in their millions making their ascent into the night sky to forage for food in the jungle, and crystal clear waters running through the caves.

They are all part of the wonders of Gunung Mulu Park. Loagan Bunut National Park, located approximately 120km from Miri City, is said to be the largest natural lake in these parts and reduces to about half its size during the drought season. Two hours drive from the city, Niah Cave National Park is worth a visit, with an

immense archaeological significance in its history. The Grand Old Lady on Canada Hill is Malaysia’s first oil well.

Sitting next to it is a new petroleum museum that showcases the history of the oil industry..

More to see and do Miri also appeals to people who are into the arts. Handicrafts and artworks unique to the ethnic tribes of Sarawak are displayed at the Handicraft Centre in the city, which is a must visit for first-time travellers here. The annual Borneo Jazz Festival showcases bands from all over the world, attracting a huge crowd to Miri City. Be entertained by ethnic

dancers and performers in their colourful costumes and sample their traditional dishes at the annual City Day Parade.

Avid golfers will find the courses here to be up to their satisfaction. Set amidst beautiful natural surroundings, the golf courses here also boast full amenities in their clubhouses. You may also opt to ride around the city and other nearby towns if that is what you prefer to do.

Come enjoy the city and be part of the festivities planned for Visit Miri Year 2018! You’ll always be our VVIP, and surprises are waiting for you!

For further information, please contact Miri City Council at Jalan Raja, 98000 Miri, +6085 433501, 433504 Sarawak. +6085 415486 www.miriapp.com

Gunung Mulu National Park Loagan Bunut

Lambir Hills National Park

Mulu Cave

Miri Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 5

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Glorious gastronomy

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iri is a fascinating city to visit, not just for its healthy mix of traditional and modern lifestyle offerings, but its colourful array of cuisines as well. For visitors looking to enjoy traditional delicacies, Kelabit food is recommended. Bario Highlands, among other places, is the perfect location in which to enjoy Miri’s ethnic cuisine in their purest form. However, when that’s not possible, restaurants serving ethnic food around the city will do just fine. Traditional delicacies like Aye’ Pulut (fried glutinous rice) and Nuba Laya’ (rice wrapped in leaf) are well loved by the Kelabit folks.

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Smorgasbords of other exotic and traditional dishes are not to be missed, such as the Labo La’al Sinutug. Much like the famous Pansoh Manuk, it is a dish of chicken cooked in bamboo with aromatic herbs sourced from the jungle. The flavours are more subtle compared to the Pansoh and the Labo La’al Sinutug is lightly seasoned with Kelabit Highland salt.

And then there is Udung Ubih, which is a dish of tapioca leaves either pounded or shredded and stir-fried with the pith of the tepus palm that have been bruised to release the aroma. The Bidayuh also have a similar dish called

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Dewon Bandung Sapur Mbud Puk in the Biatah (Emperoh) dialect.

Traditional cuisines are definitely a must-try when you’re here in this beautiful Resort City, but Miri is also a treasure trove of other varieties of food. Popular foods that can be found at the local hawker centres here include Kolo Mee, Sarawak Laksa, Dim Sum, Nyonya Kuih, Nasi Lalapan and Nasi Lemak just to name a few.

There are plenty of outlets serving good Western food in Miri as well. Here, diners get anything from pizza and pasta to chicken chop and steak. These are available from simple hawker stalls to fancy restaurants with a sophisticated ambiance to set the tone right for your elaborate Western meal.

Seafood restaurants are popular in Miri too, with diners getting to choose live seafood right out of glass tanks and

straight into the wok then onto their table! Salted Egg Crabs and Steamed Garoupa are just some of the favourites among customers.

These all represent the diversity in Miri’s food scene, which should be experienced especially by those who visit Miri for the first time. Bon apetit!

For further information, please contact Miri City Council at Jalan Raja, 98000 Miri, Sarawak. +6085 433501, 433504 +6085 415486 www.miriapp.com Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 7

IN THIS ISSUE VMY (4) The vibrant resort City (6) Glorious gastronomy . FOOD (9) A sip of summer - Madeleine Cafe (10) Sarawak food you must try (12) Imperial Hotel, Kuching (13) The Heyday of Kuching’s great cafes - Heyday Cafe (14) Taste of the sea, crafted with expertise - Oishi (15) A hidden gem in the heart of Kuching - Peridot (16) Food! Food! and More Food! (18) Foods galore - Wisma Sanyan (19) Ready for a new drink and a new culinary adventure? - Tom’s Restaurant (20) A sensuous experience - Boncafé (21) A memorable evening from a five star culinary experience - Loong Jin Restaurant, Tanahmas Hotel (22) Imperial Hotel, Miri (23) Books, bamboo and tea ˜ ingredients for culture - Life Café (25) Vegetarian meal with a twist - beyond veggie by Secret Recipe (27) “Kedey Kamek” for home style meals - Kedey Kamek (29) One “Route” to rule them all - Route 18 @ Rumah Asap Dayak Samarahan (30) Traditional medicine in Sarawak - STIDC (44) Unmatched in quality - the BanQuet . Hotel (24) Lot 10 Boutique Hotel (26) Samalaju Resort Hotel (28) The Waterfront Hotel (32) Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club, Li Hua Hotel, Medan Hotel (44) Dorset Boutique Hotel . Places (33) How to avoid washout events – come to Megalanes (38) Closing the distance between North and South – the Darul Hana Bridge of Sarawak . EVENTS (34) Sarawak Calendar of Events January to March 2018 (54) KEER 2018 (55) HUMAN BOOKS: To Read or Not to Read (56) Miri AfroLatin Fiesta 2018 (57) Borneo Jazz 2018 (59) Rainforest World Music Festival 2018 (RWMF) . POST EVENTS (36) Sarawak hosts 13th WIEF (45) Heart of Borneo flowing with life (47) A breezy cruise with Korean celebrity guests (48) Sarawak’s growth on display at the Hornbill Awards (52) Not one pin left standing . Map (42) Miri (43) Kuching . ETC (58) Standing the test of time with Success Steel - Success Steel Products Sdn Bhd, The solution to your window worries is here: Maxtrack . TRAVEL (60) Unforgettable experiences in fascinating Yogyakarta (62) Xpress Air (63) Pearl of Borneo - Federal Territory of Labuan . MUSIC (46) Yamaha Music . Property (64) Sibujaya . Interior Design (65) Let your home speak volumes about your character - at&a home ideas . Info (66) Caring for the less fortunate (68) Beautifying Bintulu - the plea of Sarawak (70) Proposed PUSTAKA Sibu .

Health (71) MIS vs Conventional Surgery - KPJ Kuching (72) True Harmony (73) What is in a gym membership? - Kinesis Wellness Stampark (74) Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) - KPJ Sibu . BT Lens (75) . People (77) Real food for real people BorneoTalk is published since 2006 by Bumi Serasi. The contents of the magazine may not be reprinted or reproduced without prior written permission. The publisher is not liable for statements made and opinions expressed in the publication.

Write to us at BorneoTalk, 242E, Lorong Green No. 3, Jalan Green, 93150 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

T: +6082 427 423, 238 968 F: +6082 235 152 E: ivypan.bumiserasi@gmail.com

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Editor-In-Chief Ivy Pan Editor Lester Geres Marketing Ivy Pan, Ashley Pan Administration Ribena Noh Contributors Vincent Wong, S C Goh, Dr. Shehab, Dr. Lai Boon Foo, A.M. Ishraq Design & Art Direction Steven Yap Photography Lester Geres, David Joseph, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), Social Media, STIDC, BDA, Sibu Municipal Council, Miri Photographic Society, Micheal Liew, Safrina Othman, Freepik Front Cover Image Visit Miri Year 2018 by Miri Photographic Society Printer ATLAS Cetak (M) Sdn Bhd, No.2, Persiaran Industri Bandar Sri Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Food

A sip of summer Perfect for a cosy evening to enjoy a spot to read, or catch up with friends over delicious desserts, Madeleine Cafe brings a touch of class to your cafĂŠ experience.

Stepping into the vintage-style setting, it’s impossible to not be captivated by French charms from its contemporary tiles and industrial lighting. Sat at rustic wooden tables, being in Madeleine Cafe feels like a movie scene set in Paris. Visitors can look forward to a wide range of cakes and freshly baked pastries. Pairing these delectable desserts with their wide range of aromatic teas and coffees will bring a smile to any face.

Grab a brew and a bite for a short escape from the mundane.

Madeleine Cafe - Green Heights Lot 10, No. 127, Jalan Lapangan Terbang, Green Height Commercial Centre, Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 529 295 madeleinecafegreenheights ( opens daily from 10am to 11pm )

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 9

Food

Sarawak food you must try Let’s face facts; hotel food is nice and all, but what’s the point in travelling to a new destination and not try the local food in their most authentic form?

That being said, allow us to share with you, dear traveller who’s reading this right now, about some of the local fares you need to sink your teeth into while you’re here in Sarawak, especially the lesser known ones that you simply must try.

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The must-haves Every place has its must-have foods. For Sarawak, Kolo Mee (a Kuching staple consisting of egg noodles, char siew pork slices, minced pork, browned shallots and lard) and Laksa Sarawak (rice vermicelli in a spicy and tangy coconut broth) top the list. The latter was even dubbed “Breakfast of the Gods” by celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain.

Kampua Mee (Sibu’s equivalent to Kolo Mee) and Kompia (small Foochow buns, often with sesame seeds on top). Ethnic food like Umai (raw fish slices marinated in lime juice, onion and chillies) and Pansoh (poultry, meat or fish cooked in bamboo) have also earned their place in the list of must-have foods when you’re in Sarawak.

Food

Underrated epicurean gems Now let’s talk about some of the other foods that travellers should not miss out on. First in our list is Mani Chai, which is a sweet leaf vegetable often stir-fried with egg. Mani Chai with egg is usually eaten with steamed white rice.

Another way this vegetable is often enjoyed is to add it to fried vermicelli (bihun) or fried rice. The leaves lend a subtle sweetness to the fried vermicelli or rice.

Kacangma Chicken is a local Chinese favourite of chicken meat cooked with kacangma herbs, also known as motherwort. Traditionally, alcohol is added to the broth, but there are also non-alcohol versions of this dish served in some halal restaurants.

Interesting to try is Linut, a Melanau delicacy made by pouring boiling water into a sago flour and room temperature water mixture until it turns sticky and translucent. Linut is best enjoyed with fermented durian (tempoyak) soup or shrimp paste (belacan) sambal.

There’s eggplant, and then there’s sour eggplant. Known locally as Terung Assam, the latter is commonly found in soups, along with chicken, pork or smoked fish. Have that with steamed white rice and chances are you'll fall in love with it.

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM

Not known to many Sarawakians is a unique Bidayuh dish called Asam Siok. Despite what you might think it means from looking at the first word in its name, this dish has nothing to do with any type of “assam”. It is in fact chicken with rice, cooked in bamboo, and is usually served during festive occasions such as Gawai Dayak and Christmas. As the dish cooks, the juices from the chicken are absorbed by the rice to give it a rich meaty flavour, while the bamboo lends a beautiful aroma to the Asam Siok. Think one-pot-wonder, but using bamboo instead of a cooking pot.

Last but not least, let’s not forget the ever so delicious stir-fried Midin with belacan, which is a must-try. Midin is a local fern that grows abundantly here in Sarawak. Today, the vegetable is served in almost every local restaurant and has become so popular not only amongst the locals but visitors as well.

Now that you’ve read about these wonderful delicacies, it’s time to go on a Sarawak food hunt. Not sure where?

Just ask the locals. They will be more than glad to point you in the right direction.

+6082 423 600

www.sarawaktourism.com Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 11

Food

The Heyday of Kuching’s great cafés

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here are dozens of coffee shops in Kuching, but none quite like Heyday Café.

Opened July 2016, Heyday Café sits in the heart of Kuching’s trendy iCom Square.

Since its debut, the quaint café has carved a reputation for delicious brunch.

Home-made, seasonally relevant western fare is the staple experience all visitors can look forward to. The menu has something for everyone with its range of pasta, poultry, soups and salads. Part-owner and entrepreneur, Ann Chia Ying, pours meticulous attention to all aspects without creating a claustrophobic or flustered atmosphere.

Stepping into Heyday, you are greeted with smiles and prompt service. Following the greetings, you’re hit by the delicious smells of fresh food wafting in from the kitchen.

The chef’s speciality lies within the eggs menu, particularly the Eggs Benedict. The care that goes into each dish is palpable in the depth of flavour. For a meatier option, the Chicken Cordon Bleu is a delicious combination of cheese and poultry. Chilli Cheese Fries remain a popular option amongst groups of friends. The club sandwich is a big enough portion to share with a group and quieten any hunger pangs. For a more refined option, the Aglio Olio with Smoked Duck packs depth of flavour without the calories.

A wide selection of drinks is available for any season or mood. The cafe uses quality ground coffee beans to brew intricately-layered, aromatic, and smooth cups of coffee. Like the versatile cappuccino, the hot drinks can be enjoyed anytime. Order refreshing iced drinks to cool down from the overbearing heat. Try the fun and fruity juices like the Summer Refresher for extra pizzazz to your afternoon. The mellow Green Tea Latte will help you unwind after a long day.

Heyday Café is open 9.30am to 10.30pm from Sunday until Thursday. The hours are extended from 9:30am to 11:30pm on Friday and Saturday. An easy choice for good food and drinks, visit now to put that spring in your step.

Heyday Cafe - No.B130, Ground Floor, Block B, I-Com Square, Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 552 223 heydaycafe superbheyday@gmail.com Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 13

Taste of the sea, crafted with expertise

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here are many Japanese restaurants like Oishi, except Oishi is the only one of its kind in Kuching.

Heading the helm of the exciting Japanese joint is the innovative Max Bong. He constantly pushes the envelope not beyond unpalatable, but beyond your expectation of standard Japanese cuisine. Each dish is smartly arranged with uniform precision. Every sushi is prepared by experienced hands and given delicate care. Individual elements are refined and brought together in compact and artistic fashion. Warm sushi rice, crisp seaweed and fresh seafood constitute every order delivered from the bustling kitchen.

Try Oishi Japanese Restaurant if you want to be pleasantly surprised with excellent traditional Japanese cuisine, made by a chef that cares for your food.

OISHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT • Ground Floor, Lot 3081, Block 10, Kuching Central Land District, 93200, Kuching, Sarawak +016 713 2991 . max_bong2912@hotmail.com . oishi.kuching.cc .

Oishi 居酒屋

Food

A hidden gem in the heart of Kuching

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eridot is a congruent addition to Kuching’s food scene. Established by chef Sham Ahim in September 2016, the restaurant is generating a lot of noise for tasty food and pleasant ambience. Sham honed his craft in the culinary arts in the five star, The Playford Boutique Hotel in Adelaide, Australia. A selfproclaimed passionate person, his love of cooking and people comes through in the excellent food paired with congenial service.

The well-appointed interior is dimmed down, creating a warm and hospitable environment. The chosen decor colours are tasteful without being self-indulgent. Peridot wants you to feel welcome and at home from the moment you step foot inside.

The cuisine covers most preferences with its meaty mains and authentic Italian dishes. Not just a pretty plate, time is spent ensuring depth of flavour and harmony between ingredients. Chef’s recommendations include the delicate Pan-seared Norwegian Salmon, a perfect summer accompaniment. The smoky Grilled Rosemary & Garlic Lamb Shoulder melts in your mouth to go beyond the call of duty as comfort food and seamlessly crosses into the realm of great food. If you’re in the mood for a healthier option, the Roasted Vegetables & Quinoa Salad packs the nutrients and leaves you satiated until your next meal.

Available for private functions, the restaurant is well-equipped to cater for all types of events. Small birthday parties can gather over a meal and

drinks, or cakes and desserts to kickstart a bridal shower can be held in the Instagram-worthy “Selfie Spot”. Staff will pour out the same level of care into your event as you would in order to make it as memorable as possible.

If you’re looking for a cosy corner to enjoy some soothing coffee, Peridot is an ideal spot for some recluse.

Peridot isn’t like other restaurants. It's the place to be for good food and a modern vibrant environment. Sham plies his trade delivering modern food and friendly service that leave you with a smile; drop by and say hello!

80 Ewe Hai Street, 93000, Kuching, Sarawak. +6013 882 0113 peridot.kuching ( Opening hours: 6.00pm to 10.00pm from Tuesday to Sunday . Closed on Monday ) Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 15

Food

Food! Food! and More Food!

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o denizens of Sarawak, every division of Sarawak is synonymous with food.

Preferences change depending on the season (normally unbearably hot or pouring rain!). Our palates have been exposed to international cuisines as restaurants pop up, bringing a whole new world of flavour with them. Others try to reinvent the wheel by altering timeless recipes, for better or worse.

It’s important to note that we often swing between timeless dishes, a staple of our hometown, and modern concoctions that push the boundary. Newer recipes naturally draw attention at initial release as we seek novelty to break from the perceived stagnant foodie scene.

Standard fare becomes exciting again when someone tweaks a classic dish by adding new ingredients or present a different interpretation. The point is, we never stray too far from the culinary beaten path.

A driving force in some trends can be motivated by deeper, more meaningful initiatives. Take for example, the “Zero Waste” movement. Common things we throw away are leftovers, banana peels, shrimp shells and broccoli stems; all these are appropriate ingredients to use in order to save money and eliminate food waste. Whilst no restaurant in Kuching has embraced this philosophy yet, many can execute this sentiment by cooking simpler meals and ultimately live happier.

More typical trends involve bringing a new cuisine, or revealing a different aspect of an established trend, such 16 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

as Korean Fried Chicken. Cafes seem to have cemented themselves as a popular choice, where students and adults go to relax. Regardless of motivations, we like to jump on the hype train to see what the fuss is all about.

So with all that said, what’s YOUR take on changing food trends in Sarawak?

Ahmad Deedat “Amadeus” Ibrahim Mathematics Lecturer Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), Kuching “I’m seeing a polarised segmentation of palatial preference (not gonna apologise for the pun). Under the Satok flyover and other places, we are acquainted with the sight of food trucks listing (supposedly) affordable offerings. In the malls, we are seeing the proliferation of high-end consumer franchises; Tony Roma’s, Nando’s and Sushi Zanmai come to mind. Both markets have a good size of clientele. But neither is taking away from the custom that older hipster and traditional markets usually get. My take? It’s exciting in that we are getting more options. On the other hand, it’s a bit discomforting that it might be a symptom of growing socioeconomic divide. But, food is food and I’m gonna try every one of them. The world’s gonna end soon, why not eat in the meantime?

Food San Lun Proprietor Madeleine Café, Kuching “People are getting more healthconscious nowadays. Upon returning to Kuching, I made an overhaul to all my recipes; which is to reduce the sugar level. However, it’s not just reducing sugar but also maintaining the balance of the whole dish.”

Vincent Hon Sales Representative Master-Pack (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd “Food and the culture of eating in Sarawak’s urban society have undergone some form of transformation. In the past, there were limited restaurants, cafés, food courts and hawker stalls to dine at in Sarawak. This has changed a lot today, with so many new eating outlets in all forms, offering endless choices of both local and international food and beverages. We can see that this has become a huge attraction for food lovers. Sarawak has a lot of food choices and factors such as working far from home, as well as food varieties served at many different premises, encourage the practice of eating-out among the people of Sarawak. Restaurants, food courts and hawker stalls now service not only those who want to have quick meals, but also those who want to spend quality time over some good food with their friends and family.”

Stanley Collin anak Awen Student: Bachelor’s Degree of Civil Engineering (3rd Year), Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Kuching “Well I think anyone who has always been wanting to try a certain dish from another continent (influenced by the Food Channel etc.) can really benefit from all those new restaurants that have popped up, that serve different cuisines of the world. For example, I’ve been wanting to try Mexican food since I was a kid and I can’t wait for an authentic Mexican restaurant to come to Sarawak. Who knows, my neighbours could be big fans of Mexican (food) as well? There is no known chance of it not being successful here due to pricing or conservative people, but the risk is worth taking for anyone open to food from around the world.”

Stephanie Jong Outlet Person In Charge Level Up Fitness, Kuching “Generally, I think it’s interesting that trends come and go, including food. And I like how people are open to explore certain foods regardless of whether or not they

will like the food. But I do hope that the local delicacies of Sarawak will remain WELL-MAINTAINED for as long as they can because those are part of distinctive culture. There are also “new trends” that are probably mostly hipster and cater to the younger generation. A lot of these are gimmicky. I hope the locals do not stray away too much from the originality of our cuisines, with so many food trends going on.”

Stansfield Chua Chief Technology Officer Go Seafood Sdn Bhd “Changing food trends means an opportunity for the palate to sample and experience new cuisines and fusions while at the same time create a platform to propel the recognition of local dishes and cuisine. Food is a universal commodity that transcends individuals and bring communities closer.”

Muammar Quaddafi bin Abdul Razak Manager, Public Affairs Section Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) “Being an industrial city, we constantly bring in investors from overseas – China, Korea, Japan, Norway, England etc. So naturally, we needed to beef up our F&B offerings. New restaurants have popped up, that cater to their taste buds. Of course, they would also want to look for Sarawak delicacies and Bintulu has that as well – including traditional food like Ti’Ong and Teves.

I personally think that the diversity in our F&B offerings is a good thing, as people are now able to choose between local cuisine and international fares. Bintulu residents are always excited to try new restaurants. And they will usually post about their experiences at those outlets on social media such as Facebook and Instagram. This will attract people from as far as Miri, Sibu and Kuching, and even overseas, which is of course good for the local economy.”

Donald Phin Proprietor D’lite Mart “Nothing beats traditional Sarawakian food - I don’t think I’ll ever get sick of Kuching staples, laksa and kolo mee!

I think it’s a good thing that people have a choice when food shopping, since our options available in the past were limited.

However, even with all the varieties of food available and with the upcoming trends in the future, traditional local cuisine will never go out of fashion in Sarawak.”

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 17

Food

Foods galore

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isma Sanyan holds the distinction of being Sarawak's tallest building. It is located in the town square of Sibu and can be seen across the city. Standing 126 meters tall with 27 stories, the towering construction can be seen far and wide across Swan City. Overlooking the Rajang and Igan rivers, it is easily accessible with abundant parking.

Opened to the public on 28th November 2017, Makan Junction CafĂŠ (non-halal certified) serves authentic Malaysian cuisine and is particularly good for breakfast, a quick tea-time snack or casual dining. Their signature cendol is creating a lot of noise amongst diners.

Fresh-pressed coconut milk, gula apong, gula Melaka and hand-made cendol combine together to create a delicious and refreshing dessert. This dish is a guaranteed must-try when you come to Makan Junction CafĂŠ.

Wisma Sanyan is a multi-functional building as it houses a shopping mall and several offices. Accommodating up to 10,000 people at any one time, you'll never run out of activities to do when you visit.

Other popular and familiar franchises like Pizza Hut and KFC are available.

For sweet treats visit McDonald's ice cream or Ulu Hut for cooling ice cream.

Check out Sushi Tie where you can find quality Japanese food served promptly, perfect if you're in a rush. Always engaging with their community, share any of their posts and win the monthly freebie.

Speaking of nibbles, check out the new Tidbits Corner for tasty morsels for you to take with you on the go.

Visit Wisma Sanyan to try out the range of cuisine available.

If you're not looking for a full meal, try a bubble milk tea from Share Tea or Easy Drink Easy Go. Authentic tapioca balls and delicious signature teas can be the perfect beverage!

Grabbing a quick bite couldn't be easier when visiting Mother's Crepe. Tastes like

No.1, Jalan Sanyan, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia. ( opens daily from 10am to 10pm ) 18 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

straight from your mother's kitchen, the crepes can be combined with a variety of toppings including chocolate, fruit and ice cream to become a tasty refreshment for you to nibble on.

+6084 349772, 349773

+6084 345772

Wisma.Sanyan.Sibu

Food the opportunity to unlock a culinary discovery with each glass.

The red and white wine collections are from all over the world including France, Spain, Italy, New Zealand and Peru to name but a few. Whether you’re partial to a lighter and fruity white wine to go with your seafood dishes or a more full-bodied red wine to augment your steak, there is the perfect bottle for you. Thomas is always on hand to provide his opinion from his many years of experience of wine tasting. Discussions on the acidity and earthy aroma of the Sauvignon Blanc or the oaky scent and deep flavour of the Syrah will leave you impressed and inspired to explore more from the vast collection of wines at Tom’s.

Ready for a new drink and a new culinary adventure?

S

ince more than 20 years ago, Thomas Yii and his wife have worked tirelessly to grow Tom’s as one of the best Western diners in Kuching.

Located on the busy Padungan Street, regulars look forward to the signature cakes and perfectly cooked steaks tuned to individual palates.

The well-appointed interior design

+6082 247 672

is suitable for casual gatherings or more formal business meets.

Seemingly fit for all purposes with food at its centre, many aren’t aware of the range of alcoholic beverages to match each occasion and visit to Tom’s.

Every bottle handpicked specifically for the unique tastes and their synergy with the food, diners have

If the above has you interested in keeping your own collection, Tom also offers wine cupboards of different sizes to accommodate space in your house and your passion for good taste.

Whiskeys from across the globe are also on offer, all of stellar quality.

Experiment with aged McLelland whiskey that provides a sharp and refreshing kick with each sip. For a smoother experience many people enjoy the Yamazaki, softer on impact and with stronger hints of fruit.

Thomas also recommends his gins, which are accompanied heavily with ice. The juniper berries, citrus, almonds and cinnamon always provide a unique and pleasant experience.

Tom’s will be hosting tasting nights with wine and food pairing in the new year.

For seasoned drinkers and people who want to learn more about wine and whiskey, Tom’s is the perfect place to receive education through experience.

Restaurant • 82, Jalan Padungan, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak. @tomsrestaurantkuching ( opening hours: 11.30am to 10.00pm from Monday to Saturday . Closed on Sunday ) Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 19

Food

A memorable evening from a five star culinary experience

You’ve got great taste in food, but struggle to find a good restaurant to wine and dine in…

W

e know the feeling when you can picture tantalising food, yet are unsure where to go. If you’re looking for that perfect pick to spend an evening with friends, family and loved ones, then head over to Loong Jin Restaurant in Sibu. The exquisite restaurant is housed within Tanahmas Hotel, rated as one of the most popular hotels in Sibu. The food served is catered to people from different backgrounds. With Halal certification, all Malaysians are welcome to experience fine Chinese dining here.

The menu offers a variety of choices to satisfy all taste buds, guaranteeing fullness at the end of your meal. Gourmands can enjoy succulent lobster paired with fried egg noodles.

For meatier options, the roasted chicken with its moist juicy flesh retaining the crispy skin will boost your protein levels and leave you feeling satiated.

The delicately steamed Soon Hock with spring onions and soya sauce will melt on your tongue and fill your mouth with its fresh aroma. All these dishes and more will ultimately be the talking point of your evening and have you coming back for more.

The restaurant is located on the second floor of the hotel and accommodates 120 people. If you’re looking for a more exclusive evening away from the hubbub, three private rooms are available for hire. Whilst excellent food is the focus, Loong Jin opens their venue for all occasions, whether they be birthday parties or business functions.

For a great night out or arranging business events, contact Loong Jin Restaurant to meet your catering needs today.

Loong Jin Restaurant: 2nd floor, Lot 277, Block 5, Jalan Kampung Nyabor, P.O. Box 240 96007 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia. (Opens daily from 11am - 2pm & 6pm - 10pm) +6084 333 188 +6084 333 288 info@tanahmas.com.my www.tanahmas.com.my Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 21

Food

Books, bamboo and tea ingredients for culture ˜ "Better to be deprived of food for three days, than tea for one” – Chinese proverb

S

uch is the importance of tea in Chinese culture. An integral part of the social fabric, tea is consumed by young and old and is served during any event. Life Café embraced the vitality of tea drinking and brought this culture with a local flair.

Established in 1995, Life Café refined and perfected the art of brewing. The organisation developed into a café with contemporary management to provide a traditional service.

The two-storey teahouse is located on Padungan Street.

The antique interior design pairs symbolism and beauty of Chinese tea culture in well-appointed décor. The ground floor welcomes guests to the restaurant and the first floor is the perfect setting to enjoy tea, food or both. Of note are the books lining the shelves next to the tables that signify enjoying tea is a slow process, not rushed. This sentiment is the foundation of brewing tea.

Using only naturally preserved tea leaves and brewing them according to age-old practices guarantee that visitors drink healthy, organic tea. Guests are invited to make their own

tea with specific tools. The dynamic process is simultaneously therapeutic and necessary, but most importantly vital to extract the optimal flavour. People can request for assistance if they’re unfamiliar with the process.

Popular teas include Tie Guan Yin, Pu’er, Jasmine, Long Jing and Mulberry Leaf teas. Whether you need to feel energised, unwind after a hectic day or enjoy the health benefits, Life Café has all bases covered.

The restaurant serves splendid Chinese cuisine for hearty meals. Recommendations include lamb special, traditional chicken soup with lotus root, spring onion egg pancake and fried chicken dumpling.

Life Café invites Kuching to build a community around tea connoisseurship. Enjoy the culture of tea drinking and embrace the tranquillity in the process.

For more information, contact Life Cafe Kuching Sdn Bhd (HQ), Lot 8961, Section 64, KTLD, Jalan Sekama, 93200 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia at +6082 337939, or visit www.lifecafe.my or lifecafemalaysia.

Opens Daily: Life Café @ Brighton Square, Jalan Song (10.00am - 11.30pm) • Life Café @ Train Terrace, Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce (10.00am - 10.00pm) • Life Café @ Padungan (NEW), (10.00am - 10.30pm) Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 23

Hotel

Your home away from home S

et within the heart of Kuching, Lot 10’s excellent location and comfortable accommodation makes it the ideal stay for visitors.

Guests have easy access to Kuching’s most iconic landmarks from the front door of Lot 10. Get lost in the sights and sounds from the exotic India Street, hustle your way through the pulsating Carpenter Street or indulge in delicious food on Padungan Street.

The best Instagram backdrops can be found on the Kuching Waterfront with the beautiful Dun building resting in the midst of the serene surroundings. Memorable experiences await you with a short stroll in amazing weather.

Each room is well-equipped to help guests feel at home, with modern décor and neutral colours ensuring sound rest. Crisp white linen fitting the beds mean as soon as its lights out, you’re out too.

Complimentary facilities and services enhance your stay in Kuching like high speed Wi-Fi or ample parking.

On-site laundry and dry cleaning can be arranged for an additional fee.

The Pipe offers a great night out in Kuching. Live jazz music will get your feet tapping when you’re not enjoying a drink from the selection of wines and beers with friends. It also serves Asian Fusion a la carte menu.

Special offers on room rates and happy hour at the bar will make it hard for you to choose between staying in or going out!

Lot 10, Jalan Ban Hock / Jalan Central Timur, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

T: +6082 232228 . F: +6082 236668 E: enquiry@lot10hotel.com . W: www.lot10hotel.com

Food

Special Sambal Petai Fried Rice

Mahogany Tofu

Tom Yum Spaghetti

Calzone Pizza

Mushroom Satay

This is where Beyond Veggie steps in. No colouring or preservatives are used in any of the cooking. The freshest ingredients are prepared and only natural produce will go into each dish. Creative use of soy beans, tofu and mushrooms to substitute meat ensure you maintain your protein intake without compromising on great taste.

Vegetarian meal with a twist A

new movement of healthy eating is surging within Kuching. Beyond Veggie by Secret Recipe.

With a myriad of delicious food choices, it can be hard to find the healthiest option.

Pistachio Cream Cake

Creamy Lemon Cheese

A carefully selected menu covers the ground for all varieties of cuisines to match Sarawakian palates. For authentic kampung cooking, try the hearty and mildly spicy petai sambal fried curd cutlets. If you’re more inclined towards other Asian flavours, try the Beyond Veggie fried rice, fortune yam basket, or “kam heong” style shiitake mushroom. Western options include algio olio, spaghetti carbonara and a range of pizzas with different toppings. If you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch, try the Bento set with six mains to choose from accompanied by spinach soup and three additional sides.

Signature cakes from Secret Recipe are present to satisfy the sweet toothed. Tuck into a slice of pistachio cream cake or creamy lemon cheesecake with a cup of cappuccino or Darjeeling tea.

Bento set

Beyond Veggie goes beyond the call of duty to help you help yourself in the journey to keep that waistline slim and your happiness constant.

For contemporary cooking that won’t pile on the pounds, head over to Beyond Veggie.

Lot 2676 & 2677 Bock 10, Kuching Center Land District, 2678, Mile Rock Road, 93200 Kuching, Sarawak. +6016 889 4240 ( opens daily from 10.00am to 11.00pm ) • L3-004, Vivacity Megamall, Jalan Wan Alwi, 93300 Kuching, Sarawak. +6016 889 3604 ( opens daily from 10.00am to 10.00pm ) beyondveggiebysecretrecipesarawak Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 25

Food

“Kedey Kamek” for home style meals

N

ext time you have friends or family visiting our lovely State, you’ll probably bring them to see orangutans, visit Niah Caves or see the river from the newly opened Darul Hana Bridge. There’s also a whole world of unique tastes you can only find in Sarawak.

At Kedey Kamek, Sarawakian for “My Shop”, you can find iconic Sarawakian dishes. Using family recipes developed over many generations, Kedey Kamek brings together all the staple foods that locals on this side of town get the pleasure to indulge in.

A one-stop Malaysian wonder, Amin Azinan’s brainchild is simple in concept and fun in execution – a restaurant that showcases Sarawak’s emblematic cuisine.

Considered the State’s quintessential dish, the Sarawak Laksa draws people from all over the world and is a musttry during your visit here. Subtler than normal curry, the

mee jawa

core ingredient is the spicy prawn paste used as the soup base, consisting of sambal belacan, herbs, tamarind and lemongrass. The combination of flavours push and pull against each other, offering its patron a dynamic sensation with every bite and ushering you to return for more.

If you fancy a sweeter and thicker soupy dish, the Mee Jawa with egg noodles hits all the right notes.

Parties and groups of friends can enjoy the platter of Cucur Campur. Yam, sweet potato, prawns and tofu are deep fried, coming together as a fritter symphony led by the sumptuous peanut sauce.

Fun events are held often like the popular all-you-can-eat buffet. Community Zumba classes are held to keep in shape so you can continue eating great food!

Come see what the fuss is all about and celebrate the flavours of home at Kedey Kamek!

cucur campur sarawak laksa

chicken rice nasi goreng kecok

mee kolo

Block 1, MetroCity, Kuching, Sarawak. (at the back of mcD Matang) • 232, Lorong Satok, No.3, Kuching, Sarawak. (next to Swee Kang Satok) +6082 513 167 , +6019 552 5050 OfficialKedeyKamek ( opens daily from 7.30am to 11pm ) Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 27

One “Route” to rule them all

L

ooking for the best grilled pork in town? Then head over to Route 18 for some of the most mouth-watering succulent barbecued foods you’ve tasted so far!

Situated amongst Rumah Asap Dayak Samarahan (RADS), it is an F&B outlet in a league of its own.

You haven’t lived yet if you haven’t eaten the iconic house burger! Juicy pork patty with lettuce leaves, cheese and secret sauce will be a party in your mouth and cause a taste explosion!

The meat platter is a winner, consisting of pork crackling, grilled chicken, honey-glazed ribs, belly pork and Chinese bbq pork (char siew).

The signature Smokies Cottage Pork

Food

Jerky is Route 18’s most delicious honey glazed grilled pork that melts in your mouth.

Try the experimental shots, multi coloured for multiple layers of fun!

The tuak (rice wine) is so easy to drink, there’s no need for water!

Head over to Route 18 for a good time with outstanding grilled food!

Route 18 @ Rumah Asap Dayak Samarahan Lot 21, Block 26, Kampung Merdang Gayam, Jalan Muara Tuang, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak. (Open daily: 3pm - 2am) +6012 894 3771 (Patricia) . route18bb@gmail.com . route18sc | Rumah Asap Dayak - Route 18

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 29

Food

D

id you know that eating black pepper was beneficial for the heart and could help to prevent tooth decay on top of it being used widely to season food? How about Serai or lemongrass being used as a painkiller?

The traditional practices are easy to learn. Many of the techniques involve pounding the plants’ roots (rhizome) or leaves. This increases their potency. The pounded roots and leaves are then made into a poultice and applied over an affected/injured area on the body.

Sarawak’s forests hold over 1,000 known plant species with medicinal properties. Many of these plants have been traditionally used by various indigenous communities to treat a variety of illnesses.

Let’s look at some common medicinal plants found in our forests and gardens that hold many healing attributes and are used by indigenous communities in Sarawak.

Alpinia galanga Lengkuas (Malay, Iban), engkuas (Iban), lacos (Bidayuh) and la’ku’er (Kelabit) This ginger plant (known as galangal in English) is a staple ingredient in many curry dishes. The plant grows up to 1.5 metres tall and is widely cultivated in villages or grown semi-wild near villages. The leaves grow up to 48cm long, 6.5cm wide and are not hairy.

Inflorescence at the end of the leaves and up to 28cm long. Flowers are whitish, V-shaped and deep purple at two lower petals.

The Iban folks use galangal to remedy itches by means of pounding it along with a bit of salt before applying the mixture onto the skin. To reduce fever, the Bidayuh crush the leaves and stems of the galangal, boil them then use the water to bathe. To help mothers feel vitalised after childbirth, the Kelabit drink galangal tea for energy.

Curcuma domestica Kunyit (Iban, Kayan, Malay), kunyit likau, kunyit putih, penawar (Melanau) Turmeric or kunyit is a very common plant found in our rainforests. Cultivated to over one metre tall, turmeric is a ginger plant best characterised by its rhizome of distinctive deep yellow hue and aromatic scent. The leaves are oblong-shaped, varying in size and not hairy. Its flowers are white.

This plant is used as a remedy for many ailments. These include treating skin diseases (Iban), headaches (Melanau), detoxing following childbirth (Iban, Malay), drunkenness and coughing (Melanau) as well as asthma (Kayan).

30 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

Food

Manihot esculenta Ubi, ubi kapok, daun jabang (Iban), daun bandung (Melanau), bandong betawai (Selako), itun obek, ubek kayo (Kayan) A small shrub that is cultivated, this tapioca plant is locally called bandong or ubi kayu. The young leaves are traditionally eaten as vegetables and are now served even in hotels as ‘ulam ulaman’ (local salad) with sambal belacan (spicy tangy dip made with fermented shrimp paste). The plant is easily propagated by stem cuttings and grows in a variety of soils.

Pounded into a pulp, the leaves can be applied as a poultice to mitigate headaches. Bidayuh, Selako and Melanau folks practise this even to this day. The Iban believe that by

merely mixing the juices from the leaves with honey and drinking the concoction, their constipation woes will be alleviated. Rubbing the latex onto the skin will relieve swelling.

It can also be used as an antidote against rengas poison. The Kayan folks believe that drinking fresh juice from the leaves will stop hematemesis (vomiting blood). They also believe that rubbing its warm bark onto the skin will relieve pains and itches caused by the hairs of caterpillars.

For the Chinese, regular intake of the tapioca leaf tea offers protection against cancer of the colon.

Archidendron jiringa Jering, buah jering (Iban, Malay) It is a shrub or medium-sized tree that grows to a height of 12 metres tall.

It thrives in secondary forests and is also cultivated. Its leaves pinnate, leaflets lanceolate or elliptic and are often unequal on both sides, with the veins on the leaves raised on both surface. Its fruit pods are irregularly-shaped, flattened, black and hard.

The jering fruit can be easily found sold in markets selling local produce.

The Iban and Malay eat jering either cooked or raw, dipping them in shrimp paste sambal. It is believed to be good for the kidneys and is a remedy for diabetes. It also enhances urine flow, although the urine passed will have a strong smell. The leaves may also be boiled to make tea.

Psidium guajava Jambu biabas, jambu bata, jambu libas (Iban), jambu berabas, biabas (Malay), biaber, jambu bejabas, jambu ubas (Bidayuh), libo (Kayan), nyibun (Kenyah) and buan libun (Kelabit) A common evergreen shrub that produces the popular guava fruit, this plant is commonly cultivated in villages or even in urban homes.

The guava tree’s bark is light brown and greenish, with a flaky exterior.

Its young twigs and leaves have fine hairs and are oval-shaped, with rounded apex up to 14.5cm long and 6cm wide. Its flowers are white and its fruits are round, with very hard seeds embedded in fleshly pulp.

Medicinal uses include treatment for skin diseases such as rashes or ringworm. The Bidayuh use this by pounding the leaves into a paste and spreading it onto the skin. The Iban folks use sap from the leaves

to heal open wounds by applying them directly on the affected area.

The Iban and Kayan also believe that consuming the guava plant’s young leaves raw may stop diarrhoea. A poultice of the young leaves can be used to relieve stomach-ache. The Malay, Kenyah and Kelabit also use the poultice of the young leaves to treat cuts and wounds. The Melanau, meanwhile, boil the leaves of the guava plant and use that to cure boils and scabies. The Selako use the poultice from the young leaves to help relieve headaches. Who would have known that the guava tree is such a panacea for so many illnesses?

All plants mentioned in this article can be cultivated in your back garden, so the next time you have an ailment, try one of these herbal remedies, courtesy of Mother Nature!

Source of Information: “Medicinal Plants of Sarawak” by Dr. Paul Chai P.K. Forestry Department of Sarawak. Retrieved from http://www.forestry.sarawak.gov.my Sarawak Cultural Village. Retrieved from https://www.scv.com.my/products/view/6/traditional-herbal-plant

Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) Wisma Sumber Alam, Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, P.O. Box 194, 93702 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

+6082 473 000 +6082 441 169 , 442 691 www.sarawaktimber.gov.my Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 31

More than just

golf

A

t Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club, listed among TeeTimes Malaysia’s TOP 10 Golf Courses, your experience goes beyond just golf.

Besides a world-class 18-hole course beautifully designed by Nickels Golf Group Ltd of San Fransisco, California, visitors to this gorgeous golf and country club can also admire the stunning views of lush greens and scenic lakes.

Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club boasts comfortable accommodation, with choices of wooden chalets or well-appointed modern suites for the convenience of golfers who would like to bring their family along.

Facilities like swimming pool, sauna, fitness centre and great dining options ensure an enjoyable stay here at Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club, while a comprehensive pro shop carries a wide range of golfing equipment, apparels and accessories for golfers to browse through and buy.

Lot 1379, Block 17, Jalan Miri-by-pass, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. +6085 421 010, +6016 577 6667 . +6085 430 515 . admin@eastwoodvalley.com or info@eastwoodvalley.com (general enquiry), reservation@eastwoodvalley.com (reservation) . www.eastwoodvalley.com

Sibu (No.7) (opposite to Sibu Bus Terminal) +6084 218 338 +6084 218 339

Mukah (No. 5) (at Medan Mall) +6084 874 888 +6084 874 666

Bintulu (No.10) (at Wisma Li Hua Bintulu Sentral Bus Terminal) +6086 257 888 +6086 257 887

Bintulu (No. 2) (near to JKR’s Office) +6086 335 000 +6086 335 222

lihuahotel.com.my

Comfort for the weary Medan Hotel & Li Hua Hotel offers comfort, affordability to business travellers Offering comfort, easy accessibility and affordability, Medan Hotel and Li Hua Hotel meet the needs of the everyday business for traveller. These three-star chains of hotel under Hock Peng Organisation seamlessly blend business and leisure, with idyllic locations at Medan Jaya Commercial Centre Sibu, next to Sibu Bus Terminal, Jaya Li Hua Commercial Centre, Unicity Commercial Centre Sibu, at Medan Mall Mukah, next to Betong Bus Terminal and also Bintulu.

Sibu (No. 9) (at UNICITY, Jalan Wawasan) +6084 255 333 +6084 255 353

Sibu (No.1) (next to Sibu Express Wharf) +6084 324 000 +6084 326 272

medanhotel.com.my

FOR UCTS HOSTEL Sibu (No.8) (at UNICITY, Jalan Wawasan ) +6084 367 300 +6084 367 301

Sibu (No. 3) (next to Sibu Bus Terminal) +6084 216 161 +6084 215 151

Sibu (No. 6) (next to Medan Mall) +6084 353 888 +6084 353 555

Betong (No. 4) (next to Medan Supermarket & Bus Terminal) +6083 471 919 +6083 472 727

How to avoid washout events – come to Megalanes

Places For leisure, letting loose on a Friday night is easy to do in Megalanes, with the several activities available. Flick your wrists for the perfect 180 in the dart room or compete to sink the 8-ball on one of several full-sized billiards tables in the pool hall. If you’re looking to relax and unwind, stay a while and enjoy a cup of tea and one of several select desserts at Coffeey Cat Dessert House.

Also of note is the range of delicious restaurants.

Overlooking the bowling alleys, Lil Baba hits the spot for Thai fusion cuisine.

Farm Bistro turns out Western dishes and transforms the freshest ingredients into succulent and filling servings. Everyone stepping in to any of the diners will leave contented with a full stomach before enjoying the rest of their evening.

Birthday parties and large groups can book different services under the same roof, making Megalanes the ideal location for a great night out for children and adults alike – the complete package for social events.

At highly competitive rates with rooms and halls readily available, Megalanes is your one-stop centre for your planning needs. For the most convenient location that’s easy to book, contact Megalanes and discover how easy life can be.

W

hen you think of Megalanes you might normally think of bowling, and for good reason.

Here’s why many people are heading to the second floor of Emart Batu Kawa - finding and booking a venue is now easier than ever with Megalanes.

A multi-function venue catering to all your needs, look no further when organising events for business or pleasure.

A soundproof meeting room fully equipped with a solid oak table and whiteboard allows groups to discuss financial reviews or forecast sales. Readily available and always with staff on hand to assist with additional requests, the meeting room is perfect for quick meets or long discussions at short notice.

E-mart Batu Kawa, Lot 6369, 4th Mile, Jalan Batu Kawa, 93250 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

+6082 685 366 , +6019 439 1576 .

Megalanes Sarawak

+6082 682 096

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 33

Events

Calendar of events January to March 2018 jANUARY

10 » 12

1st International Conference on Durability of Building and Infrastructures (DuraBI) 2018 at Meritz Hotel, Miri

23 » 25

4th International Energy Week (IEW) 2018 at BCCK, Kuching

6 »7

This conference will be focusing on the continued development of the multi-billion dollar Sarawak Corridor Of Renewal Energy (SCORE) initiatives which will spearhead the development of the energy and petroleum sectors.

at Grand Margherita Hotel, Kuching

AMB Tarsus Events Group

DuraBI 2018 is an international conference aimed at bringing together academics and practitioners worldwide to present state of the art research and inventions that are related to durability of building and infrastructures.

FEBRUARY

+603 2692 6888 +603 2692 2788

5th International Seminar on Sports And Exercise This seminar will serve as a good avenue for the relevant bodies to focus on diverse sports and exercise psychology. The seminar will also provide a good platform for international exchange of knowledge and strategic networking, in which 300 delegates from various countries are expected to participate.

Curtin University Malaysia & Korea Institute for Structural Maintenance and Inspection, South Korea

Sarawak Sports Corporation

19 » 20

(a week before CNY)

+6085 443 939

+6082 442 264 +6082 441 420

+6085 443 838

3rd International Biohealth Science Conference (IBSC 2018) at Riverside Majestic Hotel, Kuching

This year’s conference will focus on Emerging Infectious Diseases as the theme. A special feature of this year’s IBSC is the pre-conference event where the inaugural International Symposium on Herbal Medicine will be host.

Advanced Medical & Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia

+604 5622 386

Gong Xi Bazaar at High Street, Miri 34 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

27

Kuching Heritage Run

Pasar Gong Xi Bazaar 2018

This is a team event with teams of at least two and up to six members that will “race” through central Kuching, testing the knowledge and agility of participants as they answer questions or carry out activities based on the clues and instructions given.

This annual event takes place a week before the celebration of the Chinese New Year Eve. During that time, events such as lion dance, dragon dance and cultural performance are also regularly scheduled during the nights, putting up a show on Kingsway.

Sarawak Tourism Federation

Miri City Council

at Kuching City, Kuching

+6082 240 620 +6082 427 151

at Jalan High Street & Jalan Raja, Miri

+6085 432 570 +6085 419 866

Events

Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching

MARCH Sibuti Challenge 2018 at Bekenu, Miri

Subis cycling challenge is an annual activity for Subis District.

The aim of this activity is to promote Subis District as a sport tourism destination in Northern Sarawak.

Subis District Council & Persatuan Berbasikal Bahagian Miri

+6085 719 018 +6085 719 527

2 »4

Miri AfroLatin Fiesta 2018 at Meritz Hotel, Miri

Miri AfroLatin Fiesta 2018 is the 2nd annual event organised by La Danza Fitness & Dance Studio Miri. It is a dance event that gathers international dance artists from USA, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Luxemborg, Kenya, Australia etc all under one roof in Miri.

La Danza Studio

+6085 417 888 +6085 411 432

3 »4

Kuching Ultra Marathon 2018 at Kuching

The Kuching Ultra Marathon 2018 will see a new route that stretches from Kuching town towards Petra Jaya in Kuching North. The Ultra Marathon will commence at M Hotel pass through the Tun Salahuddin Bridge towards Damai Beach on the Santubong Peninsula. The Santubong Peninsula, situated on the mouth of the Sarawak River is located 35KM from Kuching and is dominated by the rainforest-clad slopes of Mount Santubong.

4

Grit Event Management

at MTB Track Bintulu, Tanjung Batu

+6016 878 2809

Kutien Memorial Park, Sibu

18

Bintulu Mountain Bike Challenge

Miri Marathon at Miri

This event aims at promoting Bintulu as a tourist destination to build the tourism image of Sarawak through the participation of other states, as well as neighbouring countries. Also, this challenge aims at producing potential local cycling champions.

Bintulu Development Authority (BDA)

Miri Marathon Association

+6017 898 6966

19 » 22

+6086 332 277 +6086 330 099

7th International Conference on Kansei Engineering and Emotion Research (KEER) 2018

10

at Riverside Majestic Hotel, Kuching

A chance to explore Wisma Sanyan, the tallest building in Sarawak. Sibu Tower Run is especially for sports enthusiasts to take on the physical and mental challenges simultaneously.

KEER 2018 will invite renowned international and local keynote speakers who are academia or practitioners to share their knowledge and experience in the area of Kansei Engineering, Affect and Emotion in the aspect of human experience. This conference also focuses on the need to enhance collaboration between research institutions, educational institutions, government agencies and industries.

Sibu Municipal Council

Malaysia Association of Kansei Engineering

Sibu Tower Run at Sibu Town Square, Sibu

Damai Central, Kuching

A road running event that covers the distance of full marathon, half marathon, 10KM and 5KM. The event is expected to attract more that 3,000 runners from local and foreign countries. It also promotes tourism industry in Miri.

+6084 333 411 +6084 320 240

Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports +6082 319 309 / 313 +6082 441 277 / 5311 www.mtacys.sarawak.gov.my

+603 5121 1219 +603 5543 5501

Sarawak Tourism Board +6082 423 600 www.sarawaktourism.com

(Note: Event dates are subject to change without prior notice. Kindly call The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports for further information) Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 35

Post Events

Sarawak th hosts 13 WIEF

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uching, Sarawak, the City of Unity hosted from Nov 21 to 23 last year the 13th edition of the World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF), at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on the Kuching Isthmus. Held for the first time ever in Sarawak, the global forum attracted participants from different corners of the globe and centred around the theme “Disruptive Change: Impacts and Challenges.”

It was officiated by Malaysian Prime Minister and Patron of the WIEF Foundation, Datuk Patinggi Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak on Nov 21, witnessed by Sarawak Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg and WIEF Foundation Chairman, Tun Musa Hitam. The opening session included also special addresses by Comoros Vice President H.E. Djaffar Ahmed Said Hassani, Morocco’s Head of Government H.E. Dr Saad Eddine El Othmani, President of the Republic of Tatarstan H.E. Rustam

36 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

Nurgaliyevich Minnikhanov, Islamic Development Bank’s Vice President H.E. Dr Mohamed Nouri Jouini.

The forum could not have happened at a better time, with Sarawak now moving rapidly towards a digital economy.

This “disruptive change” is a result of technological advancements affecting the way we communicate with each other, the way we live our lives and the way we keep up with the rest of the world. Social media, smart devices, the Internet, a plethora of gadgets and gizmos… all of these have gone from being not so important to being absolute necessities in our daily lives.

Among the highlights of the three-day forum were the signing and exchange of 16 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between local and international companies, valued at about RM10.37 billion altogether. A huge draw was the Face to Face session with Steve Wozniak, Co-Founder of Apple Inc, United States. Moderated by Daniel Sieberg, Author of The Digital Diet and Co-Founder of News Lab, Google, United

Post Events

States, the session provided attendees a look at how Steve and Apple helped to change people’s lives through revolutionary innovations such as the iMac, iPod and the iPhone.

On the local front, a key highlight at the event was a Sarawak Focus session, which discussed on the topic Sarawak State Initiatives on Digital Economy. With Sarawak State Secretary, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohd Morshidi Abdul Ghani (represented by Deputy State Secretary (Administration), Datu Dr Sabariah Putit) and Distinguished Engineer and Chief Architect of Cisco Systems, Inc (USA) Jeffrey Lo as speakers, the session looked at the benefits that Sarawak would gain out of developing the digital economy and what Sarawak could offer to develop various initiatives on the digital economy.

Another highlight was a session on Sarawak as a Premium Tourist Destination, which included Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Sarawak, Datu Ik Pahon Joyik and Chairman, Sabah Parks Board of Trustees, Dato’ Seri Tengku Dr Zainal Adlin Tengku Mahamood as speakers. The session looked at how Sarawak was focusing on culture, adventure and nature as viable tourism products, besides promoting Meeting, Incentive, Conference and Exhibition (MICE) possibilities in Sarawak.

With economic forums, panel discussions, masterclasses, exhibitions and the MOCA (Marketplace of Creative Arts) Fest held as part of the prestigious forum, the 13th WIEF was definitely one of the key highlights of Sarawak’s list of international events and conferences last year.

For more information, please contact Sarawak Planning Unit, Chief Minister’s Office, 6th & 7th Floor, Wisma Bapa Malaysia, 93502, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. +6082 492 277 . +6082 449 481 www.jkm.sarawak.gov.my Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 37

Places

Closing the distance between North and South – the Darul Hana Bridge of Sarawak

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y eyes trace the curvature of the bridge, weaving through the river. It’s 6:30am and streams of people cross from the North waterfront to the South. Different currents run side by side consisting of people enjoying the view whilst strolling and people striding briskly to get to work. A gentle heat from the sunrise begins to settle on my face, as an amber blanket rests on the river. The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly is dormant, awaiting the bustle and clamour of the day ahead. I am still drawn to the beauty of the bridge, effervescent and majestic. Amidst the ebb and flow of the 38 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

city, the bridge’s attempts to be the quiet contributor is unsuccessful. When witnessing this scene where nature and technology collide, and cultures overlap, you can’t help but feel the bridge is the cornerstone of this new age.

A bridge is normally a functional structure with the sole purpose to allow passage over physical

The Darul Hana Bridge has been one of our most technically challenging construction projects. It was the first bridge of its kind in the region and thus required us to access new skills and to collaborate internationally for the necessary specialist expertise to surmount the many engineering challenges we faced. Its role as an iconic structure symbolising both modern Sarawak’s capabilities as well as Kuching’s status as a city of unity where people of diverse faiths and communities, even divided by a river, are connected to each other and live in harmony, ensured we worked extra hard to deliver a truly iconic design that will be admired and enjoyed for many years to come. – Dato’ Richard Curtis, Director PPES Works (Sarawak)

obstacles. The Darul Hana Bridge, was made with this in mind, yet it shoulders a burden that other constructions could. Unifying the North and South Waterfronts of Kuching, people can now freely cross and explore opposite sides within minutes. Accessibility to the kampung and the city is realised. The vision of harmony grows closer as the unification of Sarawak is manifested physically.

The newest addition to Sarawak’s innovative and meaningful landmarks marks Sarawak’s 50th year of independence from British rule. An engineering and creative masterpiece, the complex design was chosen in

a competition amongst other worthy submissions. The S shape design was inspired by the epochal rivers coursing through the state. The Curvilinear Cable Steel pedestrian bridge spans the river’s width of 200 metres and is built upon three sets of in-river bored pile foundations. The bridge’s deck is constructed of epoxy coated precast concrete with

Places Amidst concerns of displacing jobs of people managing river boats known as perahu sampan or tambang, Tuan Haji Soedirman Haji Aini, General Manager of Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) allayed these anxieties: “The tambang will continue to play a vital role in the lives of our river. This bridge will encourage visitors to enjoy the river more. Its 450m bridge length to walk across coupled with the additional distance to reach the adjoining kampung will encourage many to still use the tambang. I can also see that the view of the bridge from the tambang is awesome and, as we all know, the sights and sounds of being on the water to many of us beat being on a static feature such as a bridge. We are also very excited about the opportunities for adjoining businesses especially those on the northern side to benefit from the enhanced connectivity thanks to this iconic new bridge.” – Tuan Haji Soerdiman, General Manager SEDC

tuned mass dampers under the deck to limit movement (or excitation) of the bridge deck. The result of the intricate planning and exact execution is style without compromising sturdiness and safety. The world’s leading consultants specialising in dynamic analysis came together to combine heads and meticulously plan. Of high priority was the bridge’s ability to accommodate all persons to cross; the curvilinear tubular steel walkway trusses with gentle gradients allow disabled people to also use the bridge.

The cables from the deck are attached to two-hybrid steel and concrete angled towers that face either side of the

river. Both towers are fashioned after hornbills, Sarawak’s State Emblem. The bases of the towers have shaded viewing platforms 30 metres long and 11 metres wide.

The RM35 million project began construction in late 2013.

His Excellency The Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud, accompanied by the Chief Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg officiated the opening ceremony on Nov 11, 2017. Thousands descended to the Waterfront to witness a splendour fireworks display that started at exactly 11:11pm. The excitement has been Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 40

Places unity in diversity. Sarawak is rich in culture, with Chinese, Malays and natives living side by side and doing business together. Taking pride in our differences, the bridge serves as a significant reminder of Sarawakians’ ability to live harmoniously.

impossible to contain from the day it was open for use and continues to be an integral part of Kuching’s attractions.

The bridge has already borne witness to several incredible events like the Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta and the Rainforest World Puppet Carnival in its short time being accessible.

The bridge has the distinction of having a unique design similar only to a handful of bridges in South-East Asia. The walkway at the top of the Langkawi cable car is a C shaped cable-stay bridge and bears the closest resemblance in design to the Darul Hana Bridge. However, the aesthetic appeal does not carry the same meaning as the Darul Hana Bridge.

The south waterfront is where Kuching’s businesses are thriving, with vibrant lights and sounds pulsating throughout day and night. If someone wanted to visit the other side, you would normally hire a sampan to go across. The alternate method available would be to take a long car ride around.

The Governor explained the meaning behind the bridge’s name. Literally translated from Arabic as “Peace and Tranquillity”, Darul Hana was also the name Sultan Ibrahim Ali Omar Shah, Sarawak’s first and only Sultan, gave to Sarawak. Carrying on the spirit of unity, the bridge provides connectivity between its people as foreshadowed by our Sultan. The Governor asserted that Darul Hana was the essence of Sarawak and would continue to be part of the State’s DNA.

When you stand on the bridge you receive a view of Kuching previously unavailable. Excitement wells inside knowing you’re suspended above the river. Pride emerges upon the realisation that Kuching and Sarawak continue to progress with modernity.

The night time view is equally impressive as the daytime – incandescent lights flare up on both sides of the bridge, illuminating the path for people to cross on. Truly a sight to behold, the Darul Hana Bridge is deserving of its name as a centrepiece of physical and symbolic beauty.

Representing unity amongst different races and cultures whilst effectively increasing tourism, the bridge draws people whether local or foreign.

As it continues to gain a reputation as an iconic landmark we believe the Darul Hana Bridge continues to usher positive change to Sarawak. Focus on harmony amongst communities and new technology to innovate business are integral to the future of Sarawak. Visit the Darul Hana Bridge to be part of history.

The Darul Hana Bridge was commissioned by the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation. PPES Works (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, jointly owned between Cahya Mata Sarawak Bhd and SEDC, and Naim Land Sdn Bhd collaborated in joint venture in the construction of the project. KTA (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, in association with FOZDAR Pty Ltd (Australia), contributed as designers. Vibration engineering was managed by Sclaich Bergermann and Partners (Germany).

Wind Tunnel testing was conducted by Global Wind Technology Services Pty Ltd (Australia).

The Chief Minister concurred with the Governor and expressed his hope that the bridge would also contribute towards increasing tourism in Sarawak. The increase of visitors may seem a natural consequence of the large-scale events in Malaysia, such as the SEA Games. However, the Chief Minister alluded to the bridge’s supporting structures like the cables and foundations that work in synergy; Sarawak is also the same and the attraction of our state both consists of and depends on the unity of its people.

The expanded link connecting the north and south of Kuching represents Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) 6th-11th Floor, Menara SEDC, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 416 777 +6082 424 330 info@sedc.my www.sedc.com.my 41 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

PPES Works (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd 1st - 4th Floor, Lot 619-623, Section 62 Jalan Padungan, 93100 Kuching, Malaysia. +6082 340 588 +6082 340 695 www.cmsb.com.my

Government Departments Miri City Council +6085 433501 Miri Resident Office +6085 433203 Miri District Office +6085 755211 Custom & Excise Department +6085 433611 +6085 433351 Domestic Trade & Consumer Affairs Department +6085 412862 +6085 436787 Immigration Department +6085 442112 Visa & Entry Permit Section +6085 442104 Social Welfare Department +6085 419072 +6085 419073 National Park & Wildlife Office +6085 436637

Emergency Ambulance +6085 420033 Fire & Rescue 999 Police +6085 433730 Miri General Hospital +6085 420033 Polyclinic +6085 412322 Miri City Medical Centre +6085 426622 Columbia Asia Medical Centre +6085 437755

Information Centres Visitors’ Information Centre Miri +6085 434180 Visitors’ Information Counter Miri Airport +6085 615181

Baram river boat services Lee Yong Express Company +6085 756749, 755280 (Marudi) +6085 412925 (Miri) Soon Hong Express Shipping +6085 755725 (Marudi) Tuto Express Shipping Sdn. Bhd. +6085 755121, 755160 (Marudi)

Outstation Bus Services Miri - Brunei Darussalam PhIs Express +6085 407175 Miri - Limbang Bintang Jaya Express +6085 432178 Biaramas Express +6085 434319 Miri - Bintulu / Sibu / Kuching Biaramas Express +6085 434319 Bintang Jaya Express +6085 432178 Borneo Amalgamated Transport +6085 430420 Eva Express +6085 413722 Freesia Express +6085 433898 Lanang Express +6085 433116 P.B Express +6085 435816 Suria Express +6085 430416

Bus station Miri Transport Co. Sdn. Bhd. +6085 433425, 434161 Miri City Bus Sdn. Bhd. +6085 432599 Miri Belait Transport Co. Bhd. +6085 419129

Taxi +6085 432277 +6085 438277

AIRLINE MAS / MASwings 1300-883000 Miri Airport Information +6085 615433 Royal Brunei Airlines +6085 426322 Air Asia +603 2171 9333 (Booking) +603 2171 9222 (Inquiry) Hornbill Skyways +6085 611066

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Tourism Malaysia-Sarawak +6082 246575, 246775 Infoline 1300-88-5050 Sarawak Tourism Board +6082 423600 MAS Office +6082 244144, 246622 Air Asia +6082 283222 KCH International Airport +6082-454255, 454242 Immigration Department +6082 245661, 230280

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Sarawak Tourism Board Visitors’ Information Centre Sarawak Tourism Federation Tourism Malaysia Office

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Sarawak Craft Council

Padawan Council +6082 615566 Telekom +6082 429191, 255994 Post Office +6082 244141, 339937 Sarawak General Hospital +6082 276666 Normah Medical Specialist Centre +6082 311999 Borneo Medical Centre +6082 507333 Kuching Specialist Hospital +6082 365777, 365030 Timberland Medical Centre +6082 234991 Sarawak Energy (SESCO) +6082 333111 Kuching Water Board +6082 240371 BOMBA (Fire Brigade) +6082 241033, 994, 417712 Rescue 991 +6082 256685 JKR +6082 203100

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The Banquet Unmatched in quality:

A dining area spreading over 14,000 sq ft with its own waterfront promenade view, The Banquet is more than a restaurant. Chinese cuisine with Halal certification means great attention to detail is given to preparing the food. Modern twists do not compromise the exquisite taste to classic dishes. Accommodating large or small parties, you are guaranteed an enjoyable time sat in the lush surroundings and warm design that welcomes all guests. The Banquet is a premium restaurant that goes beyond to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Sublot 1-8, Lot 745 Blk 218 KNLD, 3rd Exchange Commercial Centre, Jalan Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching, 93250, Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 451 414 +6082 457 414 thebanquet.restaurant@gmail.com www.thebanquet.com.my thebanquetrestaurant

Come back to Dorset comfort With a great location near the city centre, but not too close to all its hustles and bustles, Dorset Boutique Hotel is a perfect accommodation for travellers to retreat to after a long day. Each room comes with plush mattress, individually adjustable air conditioning, 21-channel cable TV and free wi-fi. All the essentials that make for a comfortable stay. Dining options include local and continental fares for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Dorset Boutique Hotel also has comprehensive MICE facilities that can accommodate various meetings and functions.

No. 175, 175A-C, Jalan Sekama, 93300 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

T: +6082 347 799 F: +6082 346 799 E: reservations@dorsetboutiquehotel.com

Online booking, log on to www.dorsetboutiquehotel.com

Post Events

B

orneo is the third largest island in the world. It boasts one of the richest mega biodiversities globally and contains a myriad of natural resources.

The Non-Timber Forest Product (NTFP) Carnival hosted by the state Forest Department from Oct 26-30, 2017 showcased exactly why Borneo is loved by so many. “The Heart of Borneo” theme pulsated throughout the gazebo at the Kuching Waterfront, with life emanating from each stall and smiles from all attending.

More than thirty stalls showed how Malaysians have adapted and used Non-Timber resources for sustainable living. Different communities displayed wonderful hand-crafted items using traditional

Heart of Borneo flowing with life and modern technology. Ornaments and furnishings made from a variety of bamboo sticks. We saw musical instruments, medical ointments, furnishings and ornaments just to name a few of the range.

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Abang Haji Openg officiated the opening ceremony, which was witnessed by Deputy Chief Minister YB Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. Our Chief Minister gave a humorous and encouraging speech reminding our fellow Sarawakians how beautiful our rainforests are. Emphasis was placed on the need for proactive effects towards conservation. Delicate eco systems are easily disturbed with aggressive harvesting of timber for industrial purposes. The carnival was an exhibition of sustainable alternatives to timber for commercial use.

If you would like to find out how to keep the heart of Borneo beating healthily don’t miss the opportunity to attend the NTFP Carnival this coming year. Many sturdy and well-built handcrafted items are available for you to purchase for living purposes. The Non Timber Forest Product Carnival is an avenue to see sustainable living and how Sarawakians live harmoniously with Mother Nature. In the meantime, contact the Forest Department Sarawak for more information on how you can contribute to the conservation of Borneo.

Our hardworking Sarawakian demonstrated dexterity in craft, resilience in hardship and compassion for the environment.

However, our luscious forests are finite resources that are rapidly depleting. Seeing how alternate solutions to timber showed a viable future that replaces timber as a primary building tool.

Forest Department Sarawak Jalan Stadium, 93660 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

T: +6082 442 180 F: +6082 445 639 E: ntfpcarnivalsarawak@gmail.com www.forestry.sarawak.gov.my Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 45

WAH LEE HONG MUSIC SDN. BHD. (51274-T) Kuching: Lot 7915-7917, 1st Floor, Queen's Court, Jalan Wan Alwi, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak.

Sibu: Lot 3760 & 3761, 1st Floor, Lorong Pahlawan 7A4, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak.

Sarikei: No. 23, 1st Floor, Jalan Getah, 96100 Sarikei, Sarawak.

+6084 651 113

Kota Kinabalu: Lot 17-20, 1st Floor, Block D, City Mall, Jalan Lintas, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Yamaha Music School. Wah Lee Hong Music Sdn Bhd 46 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

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A breezy cruise with Korean celebrity guests

I

t was a rather warm but breezy Sunday afternoon when we arrived on the pontoon at the Kuching Waterfront. There’s no need to evoke suspense as to why we were there since the photos you see here pretty much sum it all up.

We were there on special invitation from Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), to join them as they feted some Korean guests to a Sarawak River luncheon cruise. And they were not just any guests. Two of them were coaches for Korea’s Suwon Football Club (Suwon FC), Choi Youngil, Choi Jinchul and Lee Sangyoon. Also on

board was Suwon FC goalkeeper Noh Jihoon.

Evermore exciting was the fact that among the guests were also actors in Korean dramas or movies Jung Euigap, Jung Taewoo, Park Sangmyun, Yoon Taeksang and Kim Dongyoon. Comedian Kim Hakdo as well as singers Joosuc and Kim Donggyun were there too! So were other celebrities such as Gu Jamyung and Son Myunggi.

As the Sarawak River Cruise commenced, the guests helped themselves to the buffet, chilled out and admired the beautiful view along the Sarawak River. After food, the celebrity guests adjourned to the top deck to take in the sweeping views and enjoy the cooling breeze, chit chatting and taking photos with the staff of STB. Of course we took the opportunity to have

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM

+6082 423 600

a few snapshots taken with them too!

The rest of the cruise was pretty much everyone chilling out all the way until it took us back to the pontoon.

The luncheon cruise was a great opportunity for everyone to get to know the Korean guests a little better and showcase to them what Sarawak had to offer. "We would love to have these celebrities bring their families, friends and fans to Sarawak, and to stay longer to explore the unique cultures, adventure and nature that Sarawak has to offer,” said STB’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mary Wan Mering, who was also on board the cruise.

The Korean guests were here in conjunction with the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Suwon FC and the Kuching Football Association (KFA), in sponsoring KFA footballers to train alongside Suwon FC in Suwon City, Korea beginning next year. Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah was there to witness the MoU signing between Suwon FC and KFA.

www.sarawaktourism.com Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 47

Post Events

Sarawak’s growth on display at the Hornbill Awards

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he 7th Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards 2015/2016 was held on Nov 24, 2017 at the Imperial Hotel. Celebrating the achievements of our fellow Sarawakians, the winners’ exhibitions illustrated why our beautiful State is worth visiting. Attending the awards ceremony was the Chief Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Sarawak, Datu Ik Pahon Joyik; Assistant Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin and the President of the Sarawak Tourism Federation, Philip Yong.

Hundreds of people from several industries gathered at the black tie event to be present at the announcement of the winners of last year’s awards. The fifteen strong Main Committee oversaw the selection process, arduously reviewing all submissions. A positive problem to have, the talent on show for the 7th iteration of the Hornbill Awards made choosing the best of 21 categories difficult.

Congratulations to the winners are in order, but we 48 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

must not simply leave the runners-up with consolation.

With 182 nomination entries submitted for the different categories (an increase from the previous year’s 165!), the competition for the top places was close.

In Kim Shin’s address to the attendees, we were reminded of how and why the Hornbill Awards came about. The biannual programme first began in 2004 and is held by the State’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports.

The purpose of these awards is to appreciate individuals’ and organisations’ contributions to Sarawak’s progressive tourism scene. In doing so, the unique work that is constantly generated from so many outlets is recognised on a wider platform.

The exposure to all the major players and upcoming start-ups subsequently show the innovative approach many of us have towards promoting the State. Through this, a culture of excellence is fostered as ideas are inspired from the exhibition of well-executed projects, whether that may be a kopitiam with a culinary twist, or a tourist guide revealing the best of Borneo. Ultimately,

Post Events Datuk Lee advised the potential challenges facing the tourism industry from advancing were mainly connectivity and the impact of global and national policies. The issue of connectivity is constantly being addressed, with three new international flights to commence this year 2018 (Sarawak to China, Bintulu to Singapore and Miri to Pontianak). There are hopes to continue increasing outbound flights to China this year.

Kim Shin ended his oration by urging all industry players to be innovative in their branding and promotion strategies. Understanding the temptation to continue with “business as usual”, the need to change our approach and adapt to an ever-changing world was imperative. Whilst we have shown resilience to the rapid advancement of technology and business practices, we must not rest on our laurels and continue to keep pace with modern standards. celebrating winners and having nominations are a means to appreciate the hard work Sarawakians put into their livelihood of delivering their best to their businesses. It is a platform for us to display our achievements and be acknowledged for our endeavour.

The continued efforts we’ve poured into improving Sarawak hasn’t gone unnoticed, as Kim Shin informed us of increased flights from Kuching to Langkawi (four times a week), Kuching to Pontianak (increased to daily occurrences) and Kuching to Shenzhen. Providing visitors more opportunities to visit Kuching is a high priority given the 9.8% increase of visitors from January to September last year when compared to the same period in 2016. 3.72 million foreigners stepped foot in Sarawak at this time and contributed RM6.9 billion to the tourism industry. The top ten arrivals were constituted of visitors from Brunei, United Kingdom, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Europe, Australia, Philippines, China and Singapore.

We were privileged to witness well-choreographed cultural dancing. Performers seamlessly moved in sync whilst the technological visuals in the background augmented the performance. The blend of dancing styles from various Sarawakian cultures combined with the dynamic lights display was a testament to Sarawak’s ability to retain its cultures and use technology to improve them.

Our Chief Minister’s speech was centred on the digital economy. Abang Johari asserted that Sarawak’s natural beauty and attraction can be further developed through innovative technology. This would hopefully be demonstrated in the Cat Museum that is under renovation. Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah was in Vienna at the time, negotiating the return of Sarawakian artefacts back to Kuching, some of which would be housed in the museum.

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 49

Post Events

Future policies will hopefully ensure that technology will be dominant and integral in our economy. Building on Kim Shin’s petition to keep pace with modern standards, we were reminded that our effectiveness of marketing can only be successful when taking a modern approach.

Referring to social media specifically, attendees were advised to embrace community marketing since product advertisement can be easily disseminated once uploaded onto the internet.

Based on Philip Kotler’s theory of marketing, the constituents of community marketing are branding, advertising and promoting. As we are engaged with all these aspects anyway, the shift in the methodology of using social media to promote our goods and services is now the norm. However, as with all innovative technologies that open up new opportunities in

50 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

conducting business, we were warned to stay updated with cybersecurity in the face of copyright infringement.

Abang Johari demonstrated his commitment to continue investing in the state to assist in reaching the vision where technology is prevalent in our economy. In order to allow as many Sarawakian citizens as possible to stay connected, plans to spend RM1 billion from the state fund to install high-speed internet in rural areas was met with applause from every corner of the room.

Furthermore, an announcement was made by the Chief Minister to spend RM50 million to beautify the waterfront even further this year.

Abang Johari’s personal contribution to the continuing development was to authorise the project of Sarawak’s very own eWallet. A downloadable mobile app available

Post Events on all devices, Sarawak Pay is a way for all citizens to pay for utility bills (such as Sarawak Energy and Kuching Water Board monthly bills) and local council assessment bills online. Approved in October 2017, there are plans to include more outlets under the cashless payment scheme.

Sarawak is being acknowledged by important visitors as having great potential for business ventures in the future; Steve Wozniak commented on this in his recent visit to Kuching at the 13th World Islamic Economic Forum.

Famous film stars such as the revered Donnie Yen and Jackie Chan have visited for the Asian International Film & Festivals Awards in recent years. The attraction is there but there is still further work to be done.

The total number of awards was reduced from 39 to 21 (six special recognition awards were given). Established businesses and newcomers both took the chance to win the hearts of Kuching’s esteemed members on the judging panel to prove they had what it takes to push the industry boundaries further. Cheers and encouragement filled the air at every announcement; thank you to all involved for making Sarawak proud.

Category : Outstanding Media Contribution To The Tourism Industry

“Ba Kelalan Sarawak”by David Hogan Jr, Malaysia Asia

Category : Outstanding Cottage Industry Contribution To The Tourism Industry

Senia Anak Jugi - Bemban Handbag

Category : Outstanding Food Outlets

• Café/Bistro – The Gold Mines Gastropub, Bintulu

• Kopitiam – Yoyo Café, Bintulu

• Hawker Centre – Top Spot Foodcourt, Kuching

• Best Restaurant - Hilton Kuching Steak House

Category : Outstanding Tourist Guide • Regional Specific Tourists Guide (RSTG) - Teddy Bunga Nangoi Anak Robert Dais

• Park Guide – Jenny Malang

Category : Outstanding Tourism Attraction And Events

• Natural Attractions – Gunung Mulu National Park

• Best Man-Made Attractions – Sarawak Cultural Village • Events & Festivals – Borneo International Kite Festival

Category : Outstanding Destination Management Company • Best and Creative Tourism Package – Ecogreen Holidays Sdn Bhd • Most Outstanding DMC (Domestic) – Borneo Exploration Tours & Travel Sdn Bhd

Category : Outstanding Hotel And Accommodation Provider • Best 5 Star Hotel/Resort – Mulu Marriott Resort and Spa • Best 4 Star Hotel/Resort – Grand Margherita Hotel Kuching

Once again, congratulations to all who won. We wish the rest of the nominees and newcomers the best of luck and not to lose sight of the focus of showing the greatness of Sarawak’s natural beauty and integration of technology in our society. Keep striving to be the very best in all you do, and we’ll see you next year, hopefully as a nominee!

Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Sarawak, 2nd Floor, Bangunan Baitulmakmur, Medan Raya, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 319 313 +6082 445 311 www.mtacys.sarawak.gov.my

• Best 3 Star Hotel/Resort – New World Suites Bintulu

• Best 2 Star and below Hotel – Inn86 Bintulu

• Best Homestay – Homestay RH. Benjamin Angki

Category : Special Recognition • International Destination Management Company (Asia Market) – See Mark Travel Services, Taipei • International Destination Management Company (Australia Market) – Flight Centre Group • International Destination Management Company (Europe Market) - Audley Travel

• Airlines Operator - Air Asia Berhad

• Most Outstanding DMC (International) – CPH Travel Agencies Sarawak

• Emerging DMC – One Wayang Tours Sdn Bhd Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 51

Post Events

Not one pin left standing

F

or the first time in its history, the Asian School Ten-Pin Bowling Championship was held in Kuching, Sarawak! The 18th competition, which ran from 11 Nov to 17 Nov, was an exciting affair with excellent bowling on display by all involved. Sixty-three boys and twenty-eight girls from ten Asian countries participated in the competition, which consist of Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Kuwait, Malaysia, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Taipei.

Datuk Haji Abd Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Sarawak officiated the opening ceremony at the exuberant Megalanes (Batu Kawa), with the CEO of Sarawak Sports Cooperation, Dr Ong Kong Swee and the President of Amateur Bowling Association Sunny Si also present.

52 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

Sarawak showcased the beauty of its cultural diversity to the international community in the opening ceremony. All present bore witness to synchronised and well-choreographed traditional Chinese Tanggu 24 drummers by SMK Arang Road School. Everyone was enthralled by the enthusiasm and grace shown through the native cultural dancing by Ministry Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports where each element of the dance symbolised an aspect of Sarawak’s culture.

Over the course of seven days, athletes knocked down pin after pin to win in four separate categories; Singles, Doubles,

Post Events Team Of Four and Masters. The last time the prestigious championship was held in Malaysia was in 2012. On this auspicious occasion Malaysia came strong with a haul of six gold medals, six silver medals, and two bronze medals.

Hong Kong were the runners up whose medal tally included two golds, one silver and one bronze.

Both boys and girls of Malaysia’s teams made us proud, with the boys’ medal haul coming up to one gold, four silver and one bronze to finish second overall.

The girls had the highest medal tally with five golds, two silvers and one bronze.

In Karim’s speech, at the opening ceremony, he lauded the young athletes for their passion and commitment to the sport. It was acknowledged that people pick up bowling for different reasons. Examples included the ability to traverse and explore the world via competitions, or simply enjoying the thrill of the game. Regardless of the original motivations, their contribution to the sport is valuable and indicative of ten-pin bowling’s growing popularity.

Bowling’s primary appeal is anyone can get involved.

Amongst the highest participatory rate in any sport, it’s

P.O.Box 2918, Petra Jaya, 93756 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

easy to see why more than 100 million people worldwide play ten-pin bowling.

In fact, a recent survey revealed a third of children aged 16-18 reported visiting the alley as a regular activity. So why bowl?

Firstly, it’s a sport that doesn’t leave anyone out.

Everyone has equal game time and the only period you’re sitting out is when you wait for your next turn.

It’s also a fantastic activity to foster social skills. In today’s environment where it’s easy to get lost in online forums and social media, bowling brings people together in an environment with agency; you develop valuable teamwork ethic and have a vested interest in the outcome! Immensely fun and satisfying when you hit a strike, bowling is also a low-impact sport. Bowlers can still burn the calories and remain relatively injury-free, compared to faster paced sports like football or tennis.

This means you can bowl for much longer!

Shortlisted as a potential sport to be included in the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, bowling is on the rise again. Get involved by heading down to your nearest bowling alley and see how many strikes you can rack up!

For more information, please contact Sarawak SPORTS CORPORATION +6082 311693 . +6082 442668 . ongkongswee@gmail.com Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 53

Events

HUMAN BOOKS: To Read or Not to Read Kamek Kitak Human Library Vol.2

by A.M. Ishraq

O

n November 18, 2017 there was a small event held at the Old Courthouse in Kuching, Sarawak that almost went un-noticed by many Kuchingites.

However, the value of the event to our society and the unique-ness of it, in my opinion, was everything but small!

Fashioned upon the Human Library ™ or “Menneskebiblioteket” as it is called in Danish, the original Human Library was developed in Copenhagen,

Denmark in the spring of 2000 as a project for the Roskilde Festival. A small group of young creative and progressivethinking individuals in the persons of Ronni Abergel, his brother Dany and colleagues, Asma Mouna and Christoffer Erichsen, designed what they decided to call the “Human Library’ as a means of building a platform based on a positive framework that allows for dialogues between ‘Walk in’ visitors and people who have been specifically chosen by the event organisers for their specialised skills, knowledge and expertise in some prescribed fields. The key objective is to allow people to freely address these specialists with inquiries that will have them questioning the basic assumptions of their beliefs, which can challenge and dispel the stereotypes and prejudices that may have existed in them.

The reason it is called the Human Library was the fact that what were presented

were those specialists stationed on site who represented ‘books in a library’ for people (readers) to ‘borrow’.

The Sarawakian version, held on Nov 18, 10am – 4pm at the Old Courthouse, Kuching was aptly named Kamek Kitak, which is Sarawak Malay for “Me and You” or “We all and You”. The local version of the event was organised by a lone, creative, progressive-thinking, courageous and outstanding young Kuching lady by the name of Laura Kho. Laura is a fulltime Psychiatric Pharmacist attached to the Medical Department of Sarawak, with a strong interest in the area of mental health.

As founder and curator of Kamek Kitak Human Library, Laura said: “It is a platform for ordinary people to tell their extraordinary stories.

Under the Kamek Kitak banner, my team and I organise the Kamek Kitak Human Library however, we may have to rename it to Living Library in the near future as the name Human Library is trademarked. Other than the Human Library event, we also organise monthly Story Nights under the Kamek Kitak banner, where people get together to tell true, personal stories, related to the theme of the night.”

She added: “The idea for the first Human Library in Borneo was born out of a simple challenge from a friend who insisted that I should stop complaining, and that if I wanted to see it happen here, I should make it happen! I felt at the time that we desperately needed a counter narrative to the one our nation/world offered us, a world where our differences are deliberately highlighted and played up for political gain.

I felt we needed more than a generic Cuti-Cuti Malaysia advertisement to remind us of how strong we are as a community - we needed genuine, heartfelt conversations, we needed to build trust and understanding. And that's how the Kamek Kitak Human Library was started.

Events such as these, which are not funded by any organisation or by the government, organised solely for the good of society, is quickly gaining popularity. Laura organised the event without any financial support despite offering the public at large to participate in it as ‘readers’, free of charge. In following her vision to present the event a notch higher in terms of quality and sustainability, she did confide in a Professional Event Organiser, Place Borneo, on how to bring this about in the best possible way. She would like the event to be a yearly do and to expand its reach. Unfortunately, without the necessary professional and financial support, the event may be limited only to her personal capacity of organising and funding it.

These ‘social enterprise’-like events, where the organisers are more interested in benefiting the society and not so much for profit, have been gaining the attention of millennials.

These younger generation prefer socially and environmentally friendly events to possibly arrest or even reverse whatever apparent damages we have brought about in our society and the environment.

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 55

Events

Every day brings a chance for you to draw in a breath, kick off your shoes, and dance

Ana Palma

Manila / Salsa, Bachata

Kristofer mencak

Sweden / Kizomba

THEO

Norway / Kizomba

Mutati

Kenyan / Afro, Bachata, Semba

- Oprah Winfrey Miri AfroLatin Fiesta 2018 March 2 – 4, 2018 . Meritz Hotel, Miri

T

he hallmark of any good event is when people start dancing – if that sounds like your kind of party then the Miri AfroLatin Fiesta, happening Mar 2 - 4, 2018 will be right up your alley. This is the second annual event organised by La Danza Fitness & Dance Studio Miri and looks to bring an even wider crowd to Miri’s doorsteps.

Designed as an opportunity for people to incorporate physical health into their lifestyles through the medium of dance, people will find their own style and move to the beat. Dancing promotes better physical wellbeing in an enjoyable manner, whilst also being a great social activity as you meet people with similar interests. The event aims to boost the dancing community in Miri to the forefront for young and old to participate in and contribute to in equal measure.

The entire event will take place at the ceremonious Meritz Hotel Miri. Instructors from USA, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Luxembourg, Kenya, Australia will be holding workshops teaching unique styles, such as Bachata (Dominican Republic), Kizomba (Angola) and Pachanga (Cuba). Following the exciting sessions held throughout the weekend, a gala dinner thanking the guest advisors and everyone attending will be held in the grand ballroom.

Miri is the second largest city in Sarawak, a vibrant hub of culture and attractions. The Miri AfroLatin Fiesta demonstrates why this city is the ideal tourist destination, as international visitors celebrate the gift of dance with the local community.

Sara lopez

Madrid / Kizomba

DJ SELVA

Malaysia / DJ

GUPSON PIERRE

Canada / Salsa, Pachanga, MC

El Cruz & Nadege Luxembourg / Urban Kiz

Azlan & Mabel

Dewa & Gung Is

Jorjet Alcocer

Saranga Kasun

Malaysia / Kizomba

USA / Bachata & Salsa

Indonesia / Kizomba

Sri Lanka / Bachata Sensual

Let’s get those feet moving!

For more information, contact Safrina Othman at +6016 637 0085, or email to linne_80@yahoo.com or log on www.malf2018.com

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM +6082 423 600 www.sarawaktourism.com 56 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

DJ Kizka

Russia / DJ

DJ Sam

Mexico / DJ

Events

C

ome May 11 and 12, Miri will be resonating with jazz music as the annual Borneo Jazz festival makes a comeback. With yet another interesting line-up of performers from different corners of the globe, the festival looks set to woo avid fans of jazz music who come not only from Miri, but beyond that as well.

Borneo Jazz will take place at the newly open Pullman Miri Waterfront. It is a perfect location not too far off from the city centre, and it offers breathtaking views of the sea.

Borneo Jazz returns to Miri May 11 to 12, 2018 Pullman Miri Waterfront, Miri

The line-up was yet to be announced at time of print, but the festival has brought in pretty impressive acts in the past, including Delgres from Guadaloupe/France, Osaka Monaurail from Japan, Laila Biali from Canada and Michael Simon’s Asian Connection from the Netherlands and Taiwan.

Get set for two nights of jazzerrific music at the 2018 Borneo Jazz!

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM

+6082 423 600

www.sarawaktourism.com Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 57

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Events

Prepare to be wowed at RWMF 2018 July 13 to 15, 2018 . Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching, Sarawak First-timers to the festival ought to spend time during the day to explore the vast Sarawak Cultural Village, in which RWMF will be held. See the local folks’ traditional ways of life, with real people living in life-sized replicas of traditional homes of the major ethnic groups in Sarawak.

Soak in the ambience and breathe in the fresh air. And as the sun sets, get ready to be blown away by a spectacular showcase of artistry in the form of music and dance.

Come and experience one of the biggest music festivals in Sarawak – the 21st Rainforest World Music Festival this July, at Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong, Kuching.

T

he Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) celebrated its 20th anniversary last year with a special line-up of 27 bands from different continents performing under one roof at the Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong, Kuching. Last year being its special edition, saw a greater list of activities, including a wellness programme that featured activities like Capoeira, yoga and medication

workshops, as well as Pustaka Bookaroo, with interactive sessions for children aged 7-12 years old.

In continuing its annual tradition of bringing some of the most intriguing world music acts from different corners of the globe, the Rainforest World Music Festival will return for its 21st edition from July 13 to 15, 2018.

But the festival does not focus solely on the nightly concerts. Festivalgoers can look to experience different cultures and traditions from around the world, showcased through numerous daily mini sessions and exhibitions. These allow them to get up-close with the performers, try their hands at unique musical instruments, partake in a number of activities held and purchase merchandise, CDs as well as locally-crafted products among other things.

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM

+6082 423 600

www.sarawaktourism.com Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 59

Travel

Unforgettable experiences in

fascinating Yogyakarta

T

here is no shortage of things to see in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Jaw-dropping sights, both man-made and courtesy of Mother Nature are at every corner and every turn here in Jogja. One such attraction is the Tamansari Water Castle, which we’ve had the chance to tour on our ‘Visit Fascinating Yogyakarta’ familiarisation trip, hosted by the Indonesian Consulate in Kuching.

Tamansari Water Castle was originally built as a place for the Sultan’s family to enjoy a leisurely time and also to retreat from potential threats. The structures are typically Javanese in design, and stunning of all are the towers, arches and walls that surround the Umbul Pasiraman. It was originally built as a place for the princesses to bathe and for the Sultan to look for a wife, a practice said to have helped ease the Sultan’s

60 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

longing to go on hunting trips.

Tamansari Water Castle is a mere 15 minutes away from Kraton Yogyakarta by foot. Besides its pristine pools and beautiful gardens, Tamansari Water Castle also has an underground tunnel that was once used to hide from potential threats, and a unique circle-shaped mosque with a place beneath it where the Sultan used to pray. Touring this beautiful locale was definitely an experience not soon to be missed.

Travel

Shopping spree After having toured the city of Yogyakarta as well as some of its surrounding attractions, we couldn’t wait to proceed to the next agenda - shopping!

For bargain hunters, Malioboro Street is the place to be for great deals on a wide range of products. This iconic street stretches a full kilometre and is lined with buildings from the Colonial era that house shops, cafés and restaurants. There are also shopping malls with less traditional offerings. The best thing about Malioboro Street is the fact that it stays alive 24 hours a day, everyday. So you can pretty much feel the excitement of this area even way past bedtime. Malioboro was once a centre of the Dutch government in the Colonial era (1700s to 1800s), hence its architecture.

We’ve had the pleasure of visiting Malioboro Street, arriving in a horse-drawn carriage that took us there from Tamansari Water Castle. After getting off our carriage, we headed straight for some stalls out on the five-foot ways, where colourful batik purses were just begging to hitch a ride in our luggage back home to Kuching. We got a pretty good deal from one of the stalls there, so we decided to grab a bunch of purses to give away as souvenir.

With everyone agreeing on going our separate ways and meeting up later for dinner, we decided to head to a nice café for some coffee, cakes and pastries. And it just so happened that right next to the café was a branded store with apparels selling at irresistible prices. We ended up walking out of that boutique with more than 10 shopping bags in hand.

Our last two destinations saw some of us doing more shopping, this time at Batik Indah Roro Djonggrang Yogyakarta, located at Jl. Tirtodipuran, and a silver factory in Kotagede.

Both destinations are worth the visit, especially for those of you who are curious to know how Indonesian batik and silver jewellery are made. Of course, you can also choose from a jaw-dropping array of batik designs and silver jewellery to bring back home with you.

Great time In summation, our ‘Visit Fascinating Yogyakarta’ familiarisation trip was a real blast. The culture, the nature, the heritage, the adventure, the people... what is there not to love about Yogyakarta? Come take a trip down to this wondrous land and discover all that it has to offer. Yogyakarta, truly is fascinating!

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 61

Travel

Pearl of Borneo S

andwiched between the state of Sabah and neighbouring country Brunei Darussalam, the Federal Territory of Labuan is an island of around 80,000 people. Measuring 95 square-kilometre, driving around the island takes a mere one or two hours with no stops along the way.

During our recent visit to Labuan, on which we were invited by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports Sarawak, we visited some of many attractions that make Labuan an ideal tourism hotspot.

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 63

SIBU: The vibrant township of SibuJaya picked up its latest award during the Sarawak Housing & Real Estate Developer Annual Dinner and Excellence Awards held in Kuching. Its developer Distrepark Sdn Bhd (subsidiary of Amcorp Properties) was presented with the Commendation Award for the sprawling three-storey commercial development “Sapphire East at SibuJaya”.

and contractors, SibuJaya would find it very challenging to achieve this degree of success and growth,” he said in a statement after the awards ceremony.

Distrepark director Mohd Fadzil Abdul Hamid said the award was also a form of recognition for SibuJaya residents and the people behind the township’s rapid development in recent years.

“With this third award for commercial development, I am confident it will inspire and spur our team to work even harder for SibuJaya’s exciting and vibrant growth,” he said. Sapphire East has been in the spotlight recently for its larger than average units.

“Without the guidance of the Government and the relevant authorities, the support of the business community, SibuJaya residents; and our consultants

Mohd Fadzil pointed out that this was the third award SibuJaya has picked up since its inception, the first being for Planning Excellence and the second was for Residential Development.

From the built-up size of its intermediate units at almost 1,700sq ft per floor to its double

frontage designs combined with a sprawling pedestrian piazza, the award must have served as an icing on the cake for the developer. SibuJaya currently has more than 30,000 people living in around 6,000 homes.

There are three schools with the Government moving quickly to create another two schools.

This was to reduce the burden on the existing schools whose burgeoning student population was reportedly at maximum capacity.

Fast food operator KFC will soon have a new neighbour, Sugar Bun, within the township as the commercial segment of the township expands quickly, with major supermarkets and outlets doing brisk business not just on weekends but weekdays as well.

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Established in 1995, the interior design company has over time found its calling at not only providing peripheral home furniture, but fulfilling all your

renovation needs as well. The package that at&a sells is simple in concept, arduous in procedure but satisfactory upon completion.

Customers are privy to equal and exclusive treatment once they engage their services. The initial consultation involves a visit to a customer’s home and a discussion on the client’s expectations and needs. The team of designers at at&a home ideas is always excited to experiment with new creative ideas to turn homeowners’ dreams into reality. However, emphasis is placed upon design concepts, colours, coordination, textures, lighting, materials and accessorising to achieve a designer look every homeowner can be proud of.

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They also received the distinction of beating out other experienced interior designers to secure the rights to refurbish exclusive homes and mansions, five-star hotels, restaurants, show-houses and commercial premises.

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atahomeideas@gmail.com Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 65

Info

Caring for the less fortunate

S

The Ministry of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Sarawak (KWKPK) headed by its Minister Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah is a dynamic and inspirational organisation with a vision to sustain community wellbeing for a dignified existence for all.

ince its inception on Oct 30, 2011, the Ministry has been working tirelessly to provide assistance to the disadvantaged in Sarawak. They include the poor and needy, elderly folks, the disabled, single-parent families and orphans.

The Ministry gives contributions and support in the form of monthly financial aids for children, the elderly and allowance for workers with disability. It also provides assistance

66 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

to schools, former patients, victims of wild animal attacks and many more.

Through these, the Ministry seeks to boost the impact of its programmes aimed towards the social wellbeing of the needy, economic development for productive welfare clients, rehabilitation and protection for victims of crime and social problems, as well as strengthen its network of strategic partnerships in offering welfare services.

Included in the tasks for the Ministry is looking after the welfare of those

who are vulnerable to exploitation and the less fortunate in society.

These are the ones who are most likely to suffer without much opportunity to get out of their situations due to inherent weakness of their physical or mental wellbeing.

Foremost, the Ministry seeks out these groups of people and provides them shelter in homes where they can be properly taken care of, while also teaching them some skills so they can earn some money for themselves.

More often than not, the majority of these groups of people are unable to

Info fend for themselves and their families are usually also unable to provide them with the support for a normal life. The Ministry takes care of the needs for these groups of people with devotion and understanding as part of the social responsibilities of the Government.

attitude for others in the society and together the people will bring prosperity to the State and country.

While undertaking all these tasks, the Ministry always stresses on core values to the groups and individuals to respect parents, the elderly and family in ensuring that such groups continue to lift themselves up and contribute positively to the society and nation.

With such values of piety and respect, these individuals will provide a healthy

new State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building. It was launched by the Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg on Nov 9, 2017, witnessed by Fatimah.

To highlight their agendas and mission, an exhibition titled “Melestarikan Kesejahteraan Komuniti” (Preserving Community Wellbeing) was held at the

The exhibition was aimed at informing visitors of the Ministry’s

roles, functions and services, and was hoped to be able to benefit the general public in their respective DUN areas.

The exhibition included information and photos put on display for the public to see. There were also

booths where visitors could get more information on a variety of subjects related to KWKPK, purchase local handicrafts and books on Sarawak women as well as partake in fun games. One of the highlights of the exhibition was a Wishing Tree, where pledges from the community are hung on its branches.

Ministry of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Sarawak (KWKPK) Ground Floor, Baitul Makmur Building, Petra Jaya, Sarawak, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 449 140 +6082 444 331 www.kwkpk.sarawak.gov.my Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 67

Info

Beautifying Bintulu

the plea of Sarawak

"M

ake Bintulu A Beautiful City” is the theme for Bintulu Townhall 2017’s ongoing campaign. A multifaceted movement, all are encouraged to contribute towards building Bintulu up as a prime example for cleanliness and urban preservation to all Sarawakians. The sentiment has long been held by the majority of residents who witness daily the negligence and indifference of many people towards the environment.

BDA’s General Manager, Rodziah bt. Haji Morshidi has spoken about the social ills prevalent in our communities that lead to a dirtier town to live in.

One such issue is public littering. We all have seen people carelessly throw wrappers out of their car window, or empty packaging on the floor. More sympathy would be afforded if no refuse bins were available. However, there is a high level of littering happening in public areas and on

68 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

our residential properties.

As part of “The AntiLitter Bug” campaign, Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) received surveys from residential properties and acknowledged the lack of bins at homes and condominiums. Instructions on how to order a bin were provided via BDA’s website. Furthermore, information on proper etiquette for keeping refuse that is awaiting collection has been distributed in flyers and is available online.

Info Rodziah noted that an effective deterrent to littering is the use of social media. Capturing public offenders in the act and posting their offence online highlights the disregard for our environment. It also gathers the local community around the common cause of keeping our environment clean and healthy.

Minister of Utilities Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom spoke at the Bintulu Tanglung Festival 2017 and urged all residents to treat Bintulu as their hometown. The message was aimed specifically towards non-locals who live and work in Bintulu, but the same disposition was extended to all Sarawakians to uphold.

A positive and proactive step to enhancing Bintulu’s beauty was the Bintulu Mural Art competition held between Aug 31 and Sept 3 held at Paragon Street Mall, organised by FORCA’s Senior Citizen Section and Bintulu Development Authority. The theme, artists were given was “Present and future Bintulu”. Crafting their interpretations on 4' x 8' Plywood Mural, over two dozen competitors put forth their creative pieces. Team Mango were the competition’s winners, where constituent artists Ling Koh Yong’s and Ling Shin Yi’s composition thoughtfully had elements of present day Bintulu blending with potential future. A young boy positioned as the centrepiece looks skywards, with the iconic Bintulu clock tower bending to represent the shift in time. A large butterfly symbolises the Taman Butterfly gardens, which is coupled with beautiful flowers in the bottom corner to reflect the botanical beauty. This present scene is set with a futuristic backdrop flooded with neon skyscrapers, a glimpse into the potential development of Bintulu.

Amir Firdaus and Assistant Project Director Misnie Binti Samsudin worked together with Dean and Amey on transforming a rocky outcrop in front of Masjid Assyakirin into their project The Hill of Unity. With the aim of conveying “Together We Make Bintulu better”, a largescale permanent outdoor mural was painted and sprayed to display the flora and fauna diversity of Malaysia.

Additionally, awareness of preserving our environment was raised through art.

Littering damages our biodiversity irreparably, as abandoned plastics that make their way into our rainforests ruin the ecosystems. Whilst Bintulu is developing phenomenally, we must also not neglect maintaining our beautiful land. Citizens of all ages and backgrounds were involved in these artistic projects raising awareness, serving as a true example that this responsibility lies with all generations.

To find out more about how you can help Make Bintulu a Beautiful City, please contact BDA.

Another mural project involved BDA partnering with artists Dean R and Amey Sheikh Ali with contributions from fellow artist Twenty Fifth. Project director Mohd

For more information, please contact

Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) Wisma Bintulu, No.1, Tanjung Kidurong Road, P.O Box 55, 97007 Bintulu, Sarawak.

T: +6086 332011 (10 lines) F: +6086 336066, 332255, 315811 E: bda@bda.gov.my

www.bda.gov.my

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 69

Info

Proposed

Pustaka Sibu

Pustaka Sibu Artist Impression "Your knowledge hub for Central Sarawak"

T

he widely anticipated Pustaka Sibu, currently under construction is expected to be completed in November 2018.

The new complex will be a source of knowledge for all and easily accessible to the public due to its strategic location. The site is allocated at the Sungai Merah Town District and lies approximately 7km from Sibu Town Centre.

The proposed library is designed to facilitate general public, and as a community centre of knowledge and cultural enlightenment, where the community can access a vast store of information in both print

70 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

and electronic media. The library accommodates the physically challenged members of the society, by providing wheelchair ramps, assisted toilets, elevators and auto sliding access doors.

Pustaka Sibu, conceived as the central region’s knowledge hub, will have close links to Pustaka Negeri Sarawak with libraries, archives and information centres in Sarawak, as well as globally.

The proposed library complements the existing Sibu Municipal Public Library in terms of collections, facilities and services. Visitors can participate in many other regularly conducted activities.

Pustaka Sibu is as the central hub to achieve Pustaka Negeri Sarawak’s goal of ensuring that all individuals in the State have equal access to information and acquire knowledge.

Pustaka Sibu will be ready for service in first quarter of 2019.

For more information, contact Sarawak State Library (PUSTAKA) at Jalan Pustaka, Off Jalan Stadium, 93050 Petra Jaya, Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 442 000 +6082 449 944 librarian@sarawak.gov.my pustaka.sarawak pustakaswk www.pustaka-sarawak.com

Health

MIS vs conventional surgery What is right for me?

by Dr Shehab

What is Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)? To many people, 'minimally invasive' means a specific procedure or surgery. It is in fact a concept or a broader medical philosophy that is adopted when doing surgery or a procedure - to operate through less destructive incisions, affect normal tissue as little as possible, and use state-of-art tools and instruments that allow us to perform the procedure safely.

What is the difference between Minimally Invasive Surgery and conventional surgery?

In conventional surgery, good exposure to the surgical field is key to safe and successful operation and thus larger surgical incisions are inevitable.

In minimally invasive surgery, exposure is still essential but can now be provided through tiny incisions. This means quicker recovery, shorter hospital stays and less pain.

Is Minimally Invasive Surgery and Laparoscopic Surgery the same? This term is generally used interchangeably with minimal access, laparoscopic and keyhole surgery. Specifically, laparoscopic surgery refers to performing of surgery in the abdominal cavity using the “minimally invasive” concept.

How does Minimally Invasive Surgery work?

Several small incisions are made and thin tubes (trocars) are inserted into abdomen. Carbon dioxide gas is insufflated into the abdominal cavity, creating a working and viewing space between the internal organs and the skin. Through these trocars, long, thin specialised instruments and miniature camera (laparoscope) are placed to perform surgery. The thin laparoscopic camera provides the light and visualisation with which the surgeon and the surgical team see the magnified operative field on highdefinition screens. This enables precise and safe dissection. Using high-tech instruments, the surgeon performs the same operation as conventional “open” surgery with equivalent long-term outcomes but with smaller incisions and other potential benefits in the early post-surgery recovery period.

What are the potential benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery? It offers both clinical and economic benefits. From a clinical perspective, MIS is associated with improved outcomes through reduced rates of complications such as infections, blood loss, incisional hernias, adhesions, and postoperative pain. Economic benefits include reduced length of hospital stay and readmissions, decreased recovery times, and lower costs across the episode of care. After hospital discharge, MIS patients typically are back to their daily routines faster than those who have had open surgery.

What kinds of operations can be performed using

Laparoscopic Surgery?

Most of the abdominal and intestinal surgeries can be performed using the laparoscopic technique. Procedures such as hernia repairs, gastric resection/bypass, bowel resection, and organ removal are now routinely carried out laparoscopically.

Laparoscopic surgery has successfully replaced open surgery as the preferred treatment option for issues such as colorectal surgery, bariatric surgery and gallbladder removal.

Am I a candidate for a Minimally Invasive Surgery? MIS isn't for everyone and not all procedures can (or should) be done through minimally invasive methods. Sometimes conventional open surgery provides surgeons better access to the area to be treated, and sometimes a patient's age, physical condition, medical and surgical history may necessitate open surgery.

In some cases, a patient might be scheduled for a minimally invasive procedure, but after getting a view inside the body the surgeon might have to "convert" the procedure to an open (conventional) surgery. This may be because the problem or the anatomy is different from what the surgeon expected.

Continual innovations in minimally invasive surgery make it beneficial for people with a wide range of conditions.

If you need surgery and think you may be a candidate for this approach, talk with your doctor. Only your doctor can determine if a minimally invasive surgery is right for you.

KUCHING SPECIALIST HOSPITAL (A Member of KPJ Healthcare Berhad Group)

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 71

What is in a gym membership?

T

he fitness fad in today’s age involves people subscribing to gyms and visiting fitness centres to lose weight and gain muscle mass. However, fitness is much more than a slender body and a muscular physique.

Health is a gift. Yet so often we take it for granted and place health at the bottom of our priority list. That is until we lose it. Health is wealth. A cheesy clichĂŠ, but what good are millions of Ringgit if you are bed-ridden?

Located at Stampark in BDC Stampin, Kinesis Wellness is committed to building a fitness culture in Kuching. A culture where the young value health above Ringgit and Sen. A culture

where the elderly stay active and age gracefully.

As we need good schools to promote the learning culture, we need a good fitness centre to promote the fitness culture.

A fitness centre that is designed with people of all ages in mind, no matter their fitness condition. A fitness centre that sets itself apart from all else, Kinesis emphasises on creating an environment that is safe and welcoming.

The two-floor Kinesis Wellness boasts medical-grade TechnoGym fitness equipment. TechnoGym is the leading company in the fitness and wellness sector and has been the official equipment supplier to six Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Health

FullGravity Technology to provide 3D full freedom of movement with resistance. This is ideal for workouts targeting a specific muscle group.

At the core of the fitness culture is the community, like-minded individuals that nurture and support each other.

Kinesis members work out together, play together and celebrate festivals together. Our certified fitness instructors, part of Kinesis membership, are always ready to provide guidance and assistance, including designing individual workout plans.

What is in a gym membership? A commitment to the fitness culture. A link to a greater community. A promise to better self.

For beginners, the Easy Line equipment utilises Hydraulic Resistance Piston Technology instead of weight bars as resistance. This allows easier control over your workouts while minimising the risk of injury.

For workout veterans, the Kinesis range of equipment employs a

Kinesis Wellness Stampark • Lot 5534,Block Kcld, Jalan Stutong, Taman Satria Jaya Bdc Stampin, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak.

+6082 578 277

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 73

Health

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)

by DR LAI BOON FOO [ MBBS (UM) MRCPCH(UK) ], Consultant Paediatrician

H

and, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common infectious disease caused by a group of human enteroviruses, including Coxsackievirus A16 (CA16) and Enterovirus 71 (EV71). Other HEV-Aserotypes, such as Coxsackievirus A6 and Coxsackievirus A10, are also associated with HFMD and herpangina.

Most viruses can cause mild disease in children, however EV71 has been associated with neurological disease and mortality in large outbreaks in the Asia Pacific region over the last decade Children with Hand, Foot and Mouth disease presented with febrile illness and typical skin rash, with or without mouth ulcers. Typically, the rash is papulovesicular and affects the palms or soles of the feet, or both.

In some cases the rash may be maculopapular without vesicles, and may also involve the buttocks, knees or elbows, particularly in younger children and infants.

HFMD is a self-limiting illness, with the majority of children recovering spontaneously with symptomatic treatment.

Only a small proportion of children with HFMD develop neurological involvement, which may further progress to potentially fatal cardiopulmonary failure .

Since children at risk of severe systemic complications often present with subtle clinical features during the early phase of the illness, yet later deteriorate very rapidly with a fulminant disease course, early recognition and timely intervention is the key to reducing acute morbidity and mortality associated with severe presentation of this clinical syndrome.

What are the danger signs signalling the need to seek medical treatment urgently: • • • • •

Fever >38 more then 48 hours Recurrent vomiting Reduced activity/refused to walk Headache /startle movement Abnormal behaviour

How to treat HFMD ?

Herpangina is also characterised by fever and multiple, painful mouth ulcers, predominantly affecting the posterior oral cavity, including the anterior pharyngealfolds, uvula, tonsils and soft palate. In some children, the mouth ulcers can affect other parts of the mouth, including the buccal mucosa and tongue, with relative sparing of the posterior aspect of the oral cavity.

•

• • •

Clinical management of HFMD is largely supportive in nature. Provide fever control and pain control using paracetamol.

Encourage drinking enough fluids to prevent dehydration No specific Antivirals.

Antibiotics are not recommended.

Prevention method HFMD is contagious and spreads from an infected child to child through:

There is no vaccine to protect against HFMD.

•

We can reduce the risk of getting infected with the following simple steps: • Isolate at home and do not go to nursery for 14 days if child infected • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after changing diapers, and help young children do the same.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups and eating utensils with people who have HFMD. • Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.

• • • •

Close contact, such as kissing, hugging, or sharing cups and eating utensils.

Coughing and sneezing.

Contact with faeces, for example when changing a diaper.

Contact with blister fluid.

Touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them.

The differential diagnoses for HFMD include: • • • • •

Herpetic gingivostomatitis Aphthous stomatitis Scabies infestation Chickenpox (varicella) Measles and rubella

KPJ Sibu Specialist Medical Centre 74 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

BT Lens

BT Lens

Focus through

Photos captured between Oct-Dec 2017

The launching of the ‘Sarawak’s Indian Women Heritage’ book by His Excellency The Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud on Oct 16, 2017 at the magnificent Astana, Sarawak was a momentous occasion for the local Indian community. The launching was also witnessed by Minister of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.

Delegates from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines at Papan Island, Labuan for some much-needed break at the end of the 14th BIMP-EAGA Joint Tourism Development (JTD) Cluster Meeting, which took place from Oct 23 to 27, 2017, at the Billion Waterfront hotel in the Federal Territory of Labuan.

A visitor asking questions about a traditional handicraft sold at one of many booths at the NonTimber Forest Products Carnival Sarawak, held from Oct 26 to 30, 2017.

The World Mental Health Day 2017 celebration was launched On Oct 28

by Minister of Housing and Local Government, Senator Datuk Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian at the International College of Advanced Technology Sarawak (i-CATS), West Campus in Kuching.

Ardhawatrao, also known as Mr. Crazy, an iconic 100-year-old puppet made during WWI in India, was one of many puppets featured at last year’s Rainforest World Puppet Carnival 2017, whose launching was held on Nov 4 at Plaza Merdeka shopping mall Kuching, in a laughter-filled ceremony graced by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Sarawak, Datu Ik Pahon Joyik.

Property developer Saradise Sdn Bhd held a grand ceremony on Oct 30, 2017 that witnessed the Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Abang Haji Openg launching its Saradise integrated township and innovation space.

Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 75

BT Lens

International rowing teams at the Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta 2017 on Nov 11, 2017.

VIPs standing on the finished Darul Hana bridge for the first time after its launching ceremony on Nov 11, 2017.

With Minister of Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development, Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah, prior to her winding up speech at the 18th State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting in Kuching on Nov 15, 2017.

Nando’s Kuching staff just having a bit of fun during their #everyoneiswelcome promo meal session with the media, at their tHe Spring shopping mall outlet on Nov 17, 2017.

Getting our magazine signed by the one and only Steve Wozniak, Co-Founder of Apple, at the 13th World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) held at BCCK from Nov 21 to 23, 2017.

Gaming icon pindaPanda of Bhutan striking a pose with her fans at the Dota 2 Tournament by SugarBun E-Sports at the C Atrium of Vivacity Megamall Kuching, on Nov 25, 2017.

Assistant Minister for Entrepreneur & SME Development who is also Assistant Minister for E-Commerce, Datuk Haji Mohd Naroden Bin Haji Majais is intrigued by an LG OLED TV during his visit to Harvey Norman’s Kuching showroom after launching it on Dec 9, 2017.

76 | BorneoTalkJan-Mar2018

People

Real food for real people

W

hen you think “fast food”, big brands like McDonalds and KFC spring to mind. SugarBun stands amongst these fast food giants in East Malaysia, except it serves great-tasting Malaysian food familiar to the palates of people residing in Borneo.

Darrell Sin, the brand leader of SugarBun, recounts the brand’s humble beginnings as an ice cream parlor in 1979. Recognising the diversity of culture and preferences for cuisines in Borneo, SugarBun evolved to begin serving food you would find at individual hawker stalls and compiling these delicious dishes under one roof.

Becoming the first home-grown major fast food brand has been an exciting journey as eyes grew wider, stomachs became full and hearts were captured. Only at SugarBun could you order a juicy fried chicken drumstick alongside Assam Fish and rice. The versatility of SugarBun stands at the heart of its success.

Darrell reflects the aggressive F&B market is ever-changing in menus and activities by SugarBun’s competitors. This has resulted in a slight downfall in popularity in recent times, he asserts. One of the biggest challenges is the ever-present struggle of value against quality. No immediate solutions were mentioned but Darrell affirmed that all of SugarBun's customers were valued and opinions were being considered

as he guided SugarBun in its journey back to the top. Expansion into West Malaysia and Sabah indicates that SugarBun isn’t doing too badly at all, but there’s definitely room to grow.

Speaking of expansion, SugarBun hosted its second Dota 2 tournament. Garnering huge interest, the recognition of eSports as a huge area not tapped into in Borneo was a huge opportunity. Darrell laughs as he admits he is an avid gamer and believes that the venture to join F&B with eSports will be a successful long-term venture.

Watch this space, as SugarBun grows from strength to strength.

SB Supplies & Logistics Sdn Bhd (127020-V) • 2nd Floor Wisma SugarBun, Lot 180, Sect. 19, KTLD, Jalan Satok, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 422 000 +6082 421 833 market-kch@sugarbun.com www.sugarbun.com SugarbunRestaurant Jan-Mar2018BorneoTalk | 77