BiG April-June 2020

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Apr // Jun 2020

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WE STRONGLY ADVISE OUR READERS TO AVOID TRAVELLING AT THIS TIME. STAY HOME AND DO YOUR PART TO #FLATTENTHECURVE.

Editor’s Note

@b.i.g.magazine BIG: Borneo Insider’s Guide @bigborneo Publisher

CHMP MEDIA Editor-At-Large

At the time that I’m composing this Editor’s Note, things have fallen into disarray. The reason is, of course, COVID-19.

It seems like woeful bad luck that we had made the decision last year when there was not yet a hint of a global pandemic – to focus on transportation for our April-July 2020 issue. So while this issue covers visits to places around Borneo and one BiG Getaway to Japan, we will instead urge anyone reading this issue to please avoid traveling at this time. We are not advising anyone to leave their homes or their country, and we will especially advise everyone to practice social distancing until the situation has improved.

However, we hope you do hang on to this issue as hopefully one day when this global pandemic ceases being a problem, you’ll be able to realistically consider some of the options we’ve laid out for you here.

In Brunei and Sarawak, we focus on some fun ways to get to know your country, while we hit the railroad and choo-choo our way through Sabah on the North Borneo Railway. The Temburong Bridge has opened, and we talk about some interesting stops you can take on the road to Kota Kinabalu.

Hari Raya is just around the corner and we’ve come up with a Raya Ready special of goodies that you might need before we start celebrating. We’ve featured some of our favourite spots to get ready for this festive season, ranging from outfits and shoes to furniture and home appliances.

Until the next issue, we hope that everyone keeps themselves and their loved ones safe. Wash your hands. Stay away from crowds. Be selfless in this time of need. Keep yourself informed but make sure all information is verified from relevant sources. Don’t spread fake news. Stay healthy. And please don’t panic.

Wan Zainal Shazali Editor

Intan Abu Daniel Assistant Editor

Sheyenne Siah Designer

Novri Rinaldi Assistant Designer

Aqilah Hj Abu Bakar Marketing Manager

Adriane Jaafar Editorial

Nova Renata Irene Chan Pamela Fletcher Brunei | biG contact@borneoinsidersguide.com T: (673) 2331031 F: (673) 2231031 Unit 49, Second Floor Haji Munchit & Hajah Dayang Rapiah Complex Kg Jaya Setia, Berakas, BB2713 Brunei Darussalam

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various writers in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of biG Magazine.

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You can also find Borneo Insider’s Guide magazines at the Brunei International Airport

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

EVENTS TO LOOK

OUT FOR

THIS QUARTER

APR

MAY

30-1 SABAH JAZZ LIKAS SPORTS COMPLEX, KOTA KINABALU

The second edition of Sabah Jazz will see two days of non-stop jazz entertainment from a dazzling line-up of musicians and bands hailing from all over Malaysia and the region.

THE 9TH INTERNATIONAL BORNEAN FROG RACE 2020

APR

BORNEO TRIBAL VILLAGE, SARAWAK

SABAH FEST A two-day spectacle highlighting Sabah’s diverse melting pot of cultures, Sabah Fest welcomes you to an immersive cultural experience that envelopes guests in the music, fashion, food and performances that make up the charm of Sabahan culture.

JUN

01

Organized by the Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation at UNIMAS, the annual event shines a spotlight on Borneo’s thriving amphibian fauna with engaging activities, workshops and exhibitions, ending with an exciting photographic race to capture rare and aesthetic frog species.

LAWAS TOWN, SARAWAK

A celebration of the rice harvest, the annual Irau Aco Festival also vibrantly showcases the cultural practices of the Lun Bawang community. Native performances, skillfullymade handicrafts, fun telematches and delicious traditional cuisine can be expected from the cultural event organised by the Lun Bawang Association.

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RAMADHAN BRUNEI, SABAH AND SARAWAK The Holy Month of Ramadhan is a sacred one where Muslims all around the world abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset.

Besides fasting, it is also a time for charity, religious devotion and spiritual reflection.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

SARAWAK HARVEST AND FOLKLORE FESTIVAL SARAWAK CULTURAL VILLAGE The much-awaited festival will feature a musical drama by the Bidayuh community “Rajah Sebrah & The Golden Horn”, the “Miss Cultural Harvest Festival 2020” an ethnic beauty pageant open to single ladies of all races and nationalities and lastly, the Sape World Concert with an impressive line-up of sape professionals from all over Borneo and the world.

CONTENTS MAY

25-27 HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI BRUNEI, SABAH AND SARAWAK The month-long festivities following Ramadan marks the beginning of a joyous time of forgiveness and good cheer celebrated with loved ones.

www.bruneitourism.travel | www.sabahtourism.com | www.sarawaktourism.com

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33RD IRAU ACO FESTIVAL

APR

APR

biG scoop Presenting our scoop on things to love and desire biG feature Stories so unique it can only be from Borneo biG trail Follow our trails and discover what is on the island

biG getaway Near or far, we go on holiday for your benefit biG buzz We put our ears up and find out what’s buzzing in town biG appetite We try the food so you can follow suit biG listings Where to eat, drink and chill?

Come with us and see

biG essentials Helpful tips for visitors arriving on our shores biG navigator Find your bearings with our walking maps biG screen See what’s playing in the cinemas around town

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Providing Limitless Connectivity

for Everyone, Everywhere 6

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

E

stablished in 1995, DST is Brunei’s leading telecommunications service provider offering mobile, broadband, pay TV as well as radio. With over two decades of providing nationwide mobile services through its subsidiary, DST Communications Sdn Bhd (DST), the brand continues to strive in improving the quality of its products with the new shift to Datastream Digital Sdn Bhd (DST) as of 24th January, 2020. The transferral also ensures that our customers can now truly enjoy limitless connectivity, everywhere.

One of the most significant things that DST believes in, is listening to the people. Just as DST was there in the beginning, we are still here to help lend an ear, as a brand that cares for its people. We hear you, and we are committed to helping our customers find the solutions they seek.

The concept of limitless connectivity is drawn from

the idea that to be human, is to be limitless. DST is not just concerned with a connection, but what we can do with that connectivity together. Our brand aims to enable our customers to be able to do more, with more, for more — creating solutions fit for everyone’s lifestyle and connectivity needs.

Being the first local telco is a heritage that DST places a huge significance upon; DST is a Bruneian lifestyle brand that’s tailored for everyone, proudly local and communitycentric at heart and we believe in helping you stay in touch with your communities.

With brand new and revamped products, DST continues to find ways to provide our customers with affordable and accessible connectivity. The introduction of our very own fibre service, called INFINITY, is just one of the ways DST endeavours to cater to our customers’ needs. INFINITY service allows customers to enjoy a home fibre service that

lets them stream, download, surf and play games with numerous options of local data bundles, all at incredibly affordable prices.

Aside from that, DST’s existing products and services have been improved. Easi, the most used service in Brunei has recently been upgraded to offer better value, with new bundles of local SMS and data. In addition, the add-on data packages have also been revised to give more value for your money’s worth.

DST’s mobile postpaid service, formerly known as Prima, has also received an upgrade and renamed to MOBI. The three available monthly plans have been simplified to better cater to the customer’s digital needs. The plans also include unlimited local calls and SMS, allowing customers to talk and text non-stop, while staying connected online through social media, streaming on YouTube and Netflix and more with their local data bundles.

Freedom has also been introduced, conveying the product’s sought-after data flexibility. The product has two types of data; Mobile and WiFi, and can be used for any occasion locally and outside of Brunei.

As DST moves forward to help develop the nation’s economy within the global context of the 4th Industrial Revolution, our brand will continue to push for a digital transformation by investing in human capital development.

As DST also upgrades itself towards a more innovative and diverse portfolio of digital systems and business models, it will undoubtedly move towards embodying a digital culture that allows everyone to enjoy the unlimited opportunities of a future where connectivity is available everywhere, for everyone.

For more information, visit their website (dst.com.bn) or keep yourself updated by following them on Instagram (@dstbn) or Facebook (@dstbn).

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7

RayaReady!

biG special

We’ve all been caught in the throes of last-minute festive preparations at some point and sometimes, even the hostess with the mostest needs a little help. So in this issue of BiG, we compiled a list of some of our favourite companies around Borneo to help you and your home look its best from the getgo. From electronics to emergency kits to interior furnishings and of course, flattering accessories to keep yourself looking great, we’ve got you covered from A-Z.

Carpets looking a little worse for wear? Not enough cakes or baked goods gracing your best silverware? Looking to escape cooking for your open house this year? Fret not! We have an array of options here to help you get Raya Ready!

RATNA MARIA’S ARTS & CRAFTS Brunei is full of hidden gems, and you’ll find a lot of them here. Half the items here are made locally, and with selections of beautiful ornaments, Bruneian ‘air muleh’ silverware, artwork, jewelry, scented soaps and candles, there’s plenty to choose here to dress up your house and yourself!

FIND US: 4, Grd Flr, Regent Square, Kiulap, BSB, Brunei Tel: 673-2233347 673-8347407 •• FB: Ratna Maria’s IG: @Ratna_Marias 8

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

CHENG XIN ENT. (CX) Bruneians understand that keeping your house - and your guests - cool is just as important as decor and fashion. Offering brands like Carrier and Gree, Cheng Xin is here for your air-conditioning needs. But if you’re just making sure your unit is in tip-top shape for the festive season, good news: they do servicing and repairs too!

CONTACT US: 10, Grd Flr, Bgn Menglait I, Gadong, BSB, Brunei Tel: 673-2423136 673-8715336 •• FB: Cheng Xin Enterprise IG: @chengxinent

KITARASA CATERING So your home and self is Raya Ready - now it’s time to wow your guests with great food. Run under the same management as Kitaro, Kitarasa offers bespoke catering services for corporate events and home buffets, and has a variety of Raya perfect meals for this festive season.

Whatever you choose, be assured your guests will enjoy it!

Look out for our new Raya product - The Nasi Lemak Cake

CONTACT US: 2, Grd Flr, Yong Siong Hai Building, Gadong, BSB, Brunei Tel: 673-7323377 673-2457373 (Orders need to be made at least 2 days in advance) •• IG: @kitarasa.brunei W: kitaro.duxhub.com

biG special

MY SPACE GALLERY X URBAN DECO

VINCCI (GREAT FUTURE SDN BHD) Putting your best foot forward is a no-brainer and so is a pre-Raya shopping spree at Vincci!

Accessorising is key when adding the finishing touches and with class, style and flair that won’t break the bank, you can count on Vincci’s shoes and bags to uplift your entire look.

FIND US: B10, Grd Flr, Shakirin Complex, Spg 88, Kg Kiulap, BSB, Brunei Tel: 673-2237017 •• FB: Greatfuture Vcbn IG: @vinccibrunei

Enhance your entertaining space with a curated selection of furniture, lighting and homewares from Urban Deco furniture showroom.

CINNAMON HOME DECOR & GIFT SHOP The unique finds in this quaint store will add some spice to your home – just like its name!

Offering all manners of quirky, cute or simply beautiful items from Indian jewelry and outfits to intricate brass mirror frames and English vase collections that will brighten up your home, you’re guaranteed to have a fun time shopping for that essential centerpiece or a stylish collection of ceramics for your home.

FIND US:

SELECTIONS FROM OUR INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Bandar Tel: 673-2421364 Kuala Belait Tel: 673-3334221 •• FB: Cinnamon Home Decor & Gift Shop IG: @cinnamon_shopbn

COFFEE BEAN & TEA LEAF

MOHAN’S CARPET PALACE One of the most effective ways of revamping your home for the festive season is by dressing up your floor. Located in Brunei and Kota Kinabalu, you’ll be spoiled for choice at Mohan’s Carpet Palace. Responsible for the plushness at your feet in hotels like The Grand Dorsett and The FIND US: Empire Brunei, you certainly BRUNEI: won’t be short Gadong of carpeting Tel: 673-2445073, options here. In 673-2448677 fact, we liken Tanjong Bunut it to a magic Tel: 673-2660024 carpet ride – Tutong bringing a whole Tel: 673-4222596 new look to your home!

KOTA KINABALU: LG43, Complex Karamunsing, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Tel: 6088-272791 A collection from Play •• FB: Mohan’s Carpet Palace IG: @mohanscarpet W: mohanscarpet.com

Scratch proof, pet-friendly Aqua-Clean fabric makes this comfortable sofa a great buy.

This Hummer Aqua Clean 3 seater, priced at BND1,700 comes in a range of stylish colours and styles.

FIND US: Across Brunei, Sabah & Sarawak (The Bean Machine is only available in Brunei) Tel: 673-2420276 •• FB: The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Brunei Darussalam IG: @coffeebean_brunei

Amid the festive celebrations, a quality cuppa joe can be bliss! Catch The Bean Machine, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s upfor-hire beverage truck, at your own home serving up their signature ice-blendeds and fresh iced teas and fighting the good fight against midday slumps. Your guests will love you for it!

Lights: Orb pendant, $159. Music: Mooni Eclipse portable speaker & changeable LED light, $266.

Show off your cooking with the Hafele 65L oven, microwave and gas hob from Germany, priced from $450 to $900. All featured in a custom modular kitchen by Bofi.

In our new showroom, My Space Gallery exclusively showcases quality bathroom fittings from Bravat, Grohe and Inax.

Put your guests at comfort with special touches in design & style by our interior design team.

FIND US: LIVE GALLERY; Spg 388 Jalan Pasir Berakas, BSB Open daily Tel: 673-2394388 / 673-2390388 FB: My Space Gallery Sdn Bhd Urban Deco Brunei IG: @myspacegallerysdnbhd @urbandeco.bn Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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biG special

TASCONI’S PIZZA Planning to spice up your home buffet with a fusion of dishes this festive season? Then look no further than Brunei’s very own pizzeria! There is plenty to choose from their Raya-inspired pizzas and their lip-smacking pastas that taste home-cooked everytime. And who wouldn’t want some pizza after having rendang in every open house? Look out for what’s new on their menu.

HASKA INTERIOR SDN BHD

SAPPHIRA CAKE HOUSE AND CAFE

If it’s a living space that you need draped, decorated or furnished, then the Haska Interior’s team has got you covered—literally.

A leading retailer in the interior furnishing industry, they provide premium goods such as curtains, wallpapers, blinds and awnings. You may have other worries to think about but a beautiful Raya Ready house won’t be on that list!

If you’re in search of the novelty Kek Lapis for your dessert table, the cake house in Kiulap offers authentic Kek Lapis in over 20 different flavours. Founded by Hjh Nori, who hails from Sarawak and uses recipes passed down from generations, you can simply pre-order or walk-in to purchase your choice of pretty layered cakes. Be sure to save some space for other Nyonya treats and their famous Laksa Sarawak and Nasi Lemak Ayam.

CONTACT US: Berakas Tel: 673-2335222 Kuala Belait Tel: 673-3335730 •• FB: Tasconi’s Pizza Brunei IG: @tasconispizza

MR. BAKER

FIND US: BRANCHES: • Batu Bersurat • JPMC • Gadong Central • Sengkurong • Mabohai Complex • Hj Munchit Complex • One Riverside • Pavo Point • Jerudong International School •• Tel: 673-2426020 IG: @mrbakersbakeshop

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‘Tis the season to be baking, but these days, who has time to bake? Our favourite purveyor of baked goods, Mr. Baker, has you covered. Offering a variety of munchies from crunchy oatmeal cookies to buttery pineapple tarts, and plenty of other equally delicious treats, head over to one of their branches throughout Brunei and grab a jar (or 10!). They also offer hampers ranging from BND30-BND200 which make perfect Raya gifts!

CONTACT US:

CONTACT US:

2, Blk A, Urairah Complex, Kiulap commercial area, BSB, Brunei Tel: 673-2238258 / 673-2239617 / 673-8729311 (WA) •• FB: Haska Interior Sdn Bhd IG: @haskainteriorbn

3, Seri Anigma, BSB, Brunei Tel: 673-2232021 •• FB: Sapphira Cake House IG: @sapphiracakehouse_

HYATT REGENCY KINABALU Nothing declares “Raya Ready” like an impeccable selection of Hyatt Regency Kinabalu’s finest delectables on your dining table to replicate the tablescapes of the hotel. Bring the best of Asia to your home catered by Tanjung Ria Kitchen’s extensive variety of unique, multicultural Malaysian cuisines.

Surprise your guests with the hotel’s signature dish ox-tail asam pedas, and why not go the additional mile by serving cookies and cakes from Mosaic Café and prepare to be everyone’s favourite host!

CONTACT US: Salleh Sulong, Jln Datuk Peter Mojuntin, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Tel: 6088-221234 •• FB: Hyatt Regency Kinabalu IG: @hyattregencykinabalu W: kinabalu.regency.hyatt.com

biG special

GUARDIAN Like it or not, the festive season is a hectic one where an emergency kit often comes in handy— which is why we love Guardian pharmacies!

What’s a wardrobe malfunction, blistered feet or a melted face of makeup to someone who’s already got their beauty and wellbeing essentials covered? Take advantage of their great monthly deals and be as Raya Ready as you possibly can!

FIND US: Guardian branches can be found throughout Brunei and Malaysia

FIROZ JAYA SILK HOUSE & TEXTILE PALACE From graceful gowns to chic baju kurung designs for a fairy tale wedding or Hari Raya, this is a favourite place to look for elegant textile in Brunei. With a wide array of beautiful materials from all over the world ready to inspire any outfit design, you can find pure silk, hijabs, intricate bridal laces for the ladies and exclusive songkets and material for men. This is an ideal place to shop for the family - and it helps that they offer a whopping 70% discount during their sales period.

FIND US: A2-A4, Spg 82, Kg Delima Satu, Jln Muara, BSB, Brunei •• BRANCHES: • Kg Delima Satu • Kg Bunut • Kg Kiulap • Bandar Seri Begawan •• Tel: 673-2335349 FB: firozjayatextiles IG: @firozjaya.brunei W: firozjaya-textiles.com E: fjsh66@gmail.com

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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scoop

Islamic Art and Local Artists on Display at the Islamic Calligraphy and Art Study Center, YSHHB

Varieties of stunning Islamic calligraphy and art can now be seen at the gallery from the Islamic Calligraphy and Art Study Center, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah (YSHHB), which was opened to the public on 5 March 2020 at an event officiated by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, who is also the Chairman of the Committee of Governors of YSHHB. The center itself was first established in July 2013, the first of its kind in the Sultanate, with the aim to train Muslim youths to become pioneers in Islamic arts by offering courses, workshops and seminars.

Today, the newly refurbished Islamic Calligraphy and Art Study Center, YSHHB, is a handsome establishment housing three galleries highlighting different aspects of Islamic art. This includes the Lauhah Al-Islamic Gallery, which exhibits international art and artifacts focusing on the collection of khat and illumination artwork; the AlAswad Gallery which displays arts, artifacts and writing instruments related to the development of Jawi writing skills with the use of hologram technology, and focuses on seven forms of calligraphy

widely used throughout Islamic civilisation; and the At-Tasmeem Gallery, which showcases the collection of interior design art made through collaborations with local entrepreneurs.

Their facilities are equally impressive. The Semaun Souvenir Shop which offers a diverse range of beautifully made Islamicthemed products and souvenirs, including intricate glass work from Mahkota Crystal, while the Semaun Café will offer local delicacies for visitors to enjoy.

There are also Lecture Rooms and Halls designed for lectures, workshops, meetings and events.

The Islamic Calligraphy and Art Center is open from 9am5pm daily (closed from 12pm2pm on Fridays) and will also be offering plenty of workshops and activities in 2020.

•• Islamic Calligraphy and Art Study Center, YSHHB Rumah Semaun, Jln Jerambak, BSB BA1511 Tel: 673-2234014 / 2234029 FB: Khat Centre Bn IG: @khatcentre.bn Email: ppkki.yshhb@gmail.com

quickly adapting to a rapidly changing world because the food culture must always be alert to new things. Uniqueness is an important selling point to food tourists using good herbs and fresh ingredients to create menus of traditional flavours.”

The event was also spent handing out awards to last year’s winners of the Brunei Gastronomy Week, namely: Eco Ponies Garden for Most Wholesome, The Brunei Hotel for Most Creative, Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam for Most Innovative, The Horizon Seafood Restaurant for Best Presentation, and The Rizqun International Hotel for Best Taste.

This year also saw the soft launch of the ‘Brunei Gastronomic Cuisine – Unique Bruneian Flavours’ – a compilation of recipes and memories collected from the annual Brunei Gastronomy Week since 2017.

The book will be available for purchase in June at BND25 per copy, and is currently accepting pre-orders. For further details, contract 673-2341713 or visit their Instagram account for more details (@bruneigastronomy).

•• For more events related to Brunei Tourism, visit bruneitourism.com.

A Coconutty Brunei Gastronomy Week 2020 Held in conjunction with the 36th National Day celebrations, Brunei Gastronomy Week 2020 was launched on 19 February at the Dewan Setia Pahlawan Hall of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. The Minister

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of Primary Resources and Tourism, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong, in his welcoming speech lauded the positive changes seen in the food and beverage industry in Brunei: “Restaurant businesses are

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Happy

(Fit)

Families It’s Bring Your Family To Fitness day, all day and every day when you’re at Peak Performance.

With prime facilities on a generous estate, there’s something fun for everyone whether you’re a fitness buff who lifts solo or a family who’s looking to get fit together. Get your sweat on when you sign up for their zumba or U-Jam classes, while your little one

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

takes up new karate moves from a certified coach or pirouettes their heart out at ballet. Or lounge by the pool with a cool drink in hand after a leisurely afternoon of tennis, squash or archery in the courts.

With a range of packages available to cater to the daily gym-goer and busy executives, Peak Performance also does it best with family-friendly facilities

such as a children’s pool, a baby changing room and programs for children as young as five years old. And in the true spirit of being a family-oriented sports & recreation club, they also host events, carnivals, tournaments and even sports camps during school holidays with futsal, football and table tennis sessions to help keep your kids active.

But if a personal training session with dedicated one-onone attention is more suited to your on-the-go lifestyle, private

coaches are also available upon request to keep you in shape in badminton, swimming, calisthenics, muay thai, table tennis, yoga and TRX. Walk-ins and non-members are also welcome.

Opening hours: Everyday 6am-11pm (closed on Fridays from 12pm-2pm) TEL: 673-2342130/1 FB: @PeakPerformance.bn IG: @PeakPerformance.bn E: contactus@ppsb.com.bn

Car s for E ve r y

Q ualit y. Durab il ity. Rel iab il ity.

biG scoop

It’s Tebuanman!

Sip Your Florals We all know the drill when it comes to living healthier lifestyles but a little encouragement never hurt! And in this case, that encouragement comes with a little help from local online teashop, Floristea. The name itself is a giveaway—it’s like if your local florist met with your favourite tea maker to create the most beautiful brews made out of rosebuds, lavender, wolfberries, butterfly pea and apple flowers. Whether they arrive to you in charming glass jars and cork stoppers or a convenient combination of flowers, fruits and herbs, the health benefits are endless. And the aesthetics? Exquisite.

•• Tel: 673-8973796 IG: @floristea.bn

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Brunei’s first ever superhero comic book, the Chronicles of Tebuanman, has finally made its mark on the nation, rousing and calling to action comic book fans everywhere.

With the superhero paying homage to the Tebuan, the legendary Bruneian football team who claimed victory over the 1999 Malaysian Premier League, the comic is a through and through Bruneian publication with interweaving themes of local tales and folklore set in an alternate modern-day Brunei. Fun fact: Tebuan translates to wasp in the Bruneian language.

But creating Brunei’s first comic book series wasn’t enough for creators Khai Anwar and Adi Farhan—they also began AD Publishing with the intention of providing a much-needed platform for local writers and artists to take the first step forward with their own ideas and stories, their first publication being their own brainchild, Tebuanman. With the consecutive issues already in the works, Tebuanman may just be the beacon of hope that the young comic book industry in Brunei has been holding its breath for.

•• The Chronicles of Tebuanman can be found in local bookstores as well as Fanboys Infinite, The Collective, Kensington, Two Sons and Marvelush. For AD Publishing inquiries, you can reach out to adcomics@gmail.com.

biG scoop

Scent Your Worries Away “Scents have the power to evoke a certain memory or change the ambience of a space,” says Melody, who started Borneo Candle Studio with a yearning to create affordable yet high-quality and toxic-free candles. True to her word, her hand-poured candles come in sleek, apothecary-style amber glasses, exuding a charm that begs to complement any space it graces. Using natural soy wax for its renewable and biodegradable qualities, sustainability is another top priority for this eco-friendly practice (bonus: the gorgeous cotton pouches they come in are absolutely reusable!). And don’t get us started on the scents! Bestselling scent Sunday Morning is described as a calming blend of earthy sage balanced with warm amber and cedar wood. To that we say, keep calm and burn a candle.

•• IG: @borneocandlestudio FB: @borneocandlestudio E: borneocandlestudio@gmail.com

A PLAN A DAY Somewhere in everyone’s rooms, there’s a stack of unused notebooks, doomed to a life of being too heartwrenchingly beautiful to ever be written or doodled on. KATjA’s notebooks and planners, while equally as beautiful, are the kind of notebooks that will have anyone busting out their favourite colour pens and pencils.

Customisable in the sense that there are different inserts suited for every need and profession to choose from, these planners were meant to

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

be jotted in, to encourage the “ability to organize the chaos of the mind”, according to Katrisha Zhao, artist and teacher by profession and Miri-based owner of KATjA notebooks. Her affinity for simple and bright designs, with a hint of humour and quirk such as the Tigress Balm or the Nostalgic Ice Kacang notebooks mirror her vibrant childhood memories and experiences of Bornean culture.

•• IG: @katja__official W: katjanotebooks.com

Cheese, Please

Resin Seas A profound love for the coastal sights and landscapes of beautiful Borneo and Melbourne, particularly the white sandy beaches of Sabah, breathed life into the artful workings of Ana Agusto. Pouring My Art Out, aside from being a great use of a pun, is where the SinoKadazan Sabahan indeed pours her heart out into creating resin art impeccably cured to take your breath away. By upcycling dead locallysourced wood Acacia and Tamasu, to embody dazzling seascapes, geodes and other natural seascapes in her pieces, Ana also intends to promotes awareness on sustainability and the importance of environmental conservation. From home décor to earrings to phone holders and kitchenware, we love knowing that the sea is never too far away thanks to Ana’s one-of-a-kind pieces!

•• IG: @pouring.my.art.out W: www.pouringmyartoutshop.com

Here at BiG, we believe that cheese is more than just a mere source of calcium or a heavenly topping that graces our pizzas and pastas—it’s practically a lifestyle. The good people behind Kinarut Cheese get it and have made it their mission to provide us fellow Borneans natural and preservative-free quality cheese. Feta, cheddar, brie and camembert—you want it, they’ve got it aged to perfection and in several varieties. Made from the freshest full fat milk from Keningau, a neighbouring Sabahan town, it’s a Borneo affair through and through as they commit to supporting local produce. Be sure to follow them on social media where they impart their cheesy wisdom and information (along with a few cheesy jokes for good measure)!

•• Tel: 6011-31704834 FB: @kinarutcheese IG: @kinarutcheese

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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feature

Experience Brunei

(in totally different ways)

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r don’t experience Brunei in different ways, because bus tours are absolutely an option, and we do believe that that oldschool method of sightseeing does help you learn more about a city you’re visiting – or living in! But there are other ways to learn about a city that doesn’t require you to sit in a vehicle with half your attention on the view and half on your phone. Here’s a couple of ways for you to see new sights in your own country – on wheels or on the water – and immerse yourself in the experience while you’re at it.

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Take a standing tour with Stand Up Paddling This tranquil activity involves gliding over calm waters using a lightweight board and a paddle. This is a mixture of surfing and canoeing, and it’s a fun and safe way of exploring Brunei’s natural surroundings.

High quality equipment is provided along with highly experienced instructors, and paddlers can choose to paddle over freshwater lakes or traverse the open seas.

•• Sup Surfari Enterprise #10, Spg 420-12, Jln Muara, Kg Sungai Tilong, BSB Tel: 673-8713019 IG: @sup_surfari Email: bookings@sup-surfari.com

Get in that four-wheel drive

Go off-road on an ATV Tour Traverse trails bordering beaches, catching glimpses of scenic saltwater views by riding an ATV on the breakwaters. Trails also include nature-filled sceneries such as a freshwater fish pond, a crocodile farm and a fruit orchard. Whatever trail you choose, the ATV tour ensures a relaxing but thrilling ride, and a whole new way to experience your country!

•• AVH ATV Lower basement lobby, The Mall, Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong, BSB Tel: 673-8730998 FB: AVH ATV Brunei IG: @avh_atv_brunei

A great way to have an adventure and see your country in a whole new light! This is for the fourwheel drive enthusiasts, from visiting novices without their own vehicles to seasoned off-roaders with their own primed rides.

Offering 4x4 off-road expeditions around Tutong district that typically span five days and four nights, get ready for the ride of a lifetime.

•• EnTee Event Management #6, Spg 98-13, Kg Manggis, Jln Muara, BSB Tel: 673-8894454 IG: @nt4x4bn Email: entee.events@gmail.com

Take a cruise Getting on a boat is a great way to experience your country in a different way. Grab the River Heritage Trail brochure (at the Tourism Information Centre located at the Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery and the Art Gallery at the Royal Wharf), hail a water taxi and learn a little bit about Brunei’s history and myths on the river.

Or you can cruise in style aboard the MV Sentosa, which offers scenic trips on the Brunei River while basking in luxurious comfort!

•• Brunei River Cruise Queen Elizabeth II Jetty, Kg Dato Gandi, Jln Kota Batu, BSB Tel: 673-2391161 E: sales@bruneirivercruise.com W: https://bruneirivercruise.com

Take a cycling tour through natural landscapes Take a bike tour through jungles and beaches with a view of Brunei’s breathtaking natural landscapes. There are bike trails all around the Sultanate for you to journey on, but we would fully suggest taking a cycling tour for the full experience.

For adventure enthusiasts, mountain biking can take you on a joyride over rough terrain against the backdrop of tropical grounds and jungles. Sure to appeal to riders of all backgrounds and fitness levels, we would strongly cyclists to experience this two-wheeled adventure.

•• Kingdom Rides + Adventures Grd Flr, #17, Madang Complex, Berakas, BSB Tel: 673-2340009 FB: Kingdom Rides + Adventures IG: @kingdomrides W: https://kingdomrides.bike/

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Splashin’ Sarawak Traditionally, travelling via waterways were once the preferred mode of transport in Sarawak. Early settlers in the state and subsequent waves of migrants all arrived on various water-borne vessels.

However, with the advent of modernity, land routes – roads – have become the more common means of getting around. Despite that, boats are still the quickest and most efficient way to travel into the interior areas of the state.

Irene Chan

River Kayak and Caving The Padawan area some 40 minutes away from Kuching is a pristine rainforest traditionally inhabited by the Bidayuh tribe.

While it is possible to explore Padawan on foot, the waterway offers nature-lovers an alternative means of experiencing what the area has to offer.

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The Semadang River – also known as Upper Sarawak River – winds its way through Padawan, providing an excellent way to witness the rainforest and the Bidayuh settlements distributed along the way.

Kayaks are perfect for navigating these waters as they are swift and manoeuvrable even through the shallows. They also have the added benefit

of being able to negotiate the rapids with ease.

There are stops along the route to see the various features of the river terrain which include waterfalls and caves. Lunch is at a traditional meal at a Bidayuh village, prepared by friendly villagers. Guests have the option of strolling around the village to see how the villagers conduct their day-to-day life.

Before the final stop to take the shuttle back to the city, guests

can feed the fish at a tagang – a section of river designated for fish conservation and preservation.

•• FB: @semadangkayak W: www.semadangkayak.com

Bamboo Rafting

With its buoyant properties, bamboo has traditionally provided the Bidayuh people with the means to navigate waterways of their heartland. Bamboo rafts have the advantage of being quickly and easily assembled by lashing together bamboo tubes.

While not as commonly used, these basic but functional rafts still offer the opportunity to explore the narrow Sirin River.

Constructed from 10 bamboo tubes, these rafts float well but offer little protection from the water – getting wet is all part of the rafting experience. As the day grows warmer, the cooling splashes are a welcome respite from the heat.

The river meanders through rainforest, bamboo groves, farmland, and passes a number of Bidayuh villages. Guests may help to guide the raft along the river, steering past a series of small rapids.

At midday, a rest stop on a pebble “beach” also allows guests the opportunity to experience Bidayuh dishes the traditional way, which are prepared on-site by guides.

There is also the chance to join them to forage for edible jungle produce.

After lunch, the rafts continue downriver, reaching a number of deeper pools – perfect for a quick dip to freshen up.

Guests arrive at a village homestay around 3-4pm, depending on water levels.

After a round of refreshments, they can then take the shuttle back to Kuching – or opt to spend another day or two at the village homestay.

•• Email: info@ borneoadventure.com FB: @borneoadventures W: borneoadventure.com

Sunset Wildlife Cruise Kuching Wetlands National Park is one of the most underrated national parks in Sarawak, a well-kept secret known only to a handful of scientists. What sets it apart is the diversity of flora and fauna which are uniquely adapted to life in the mangrove ecosystem.

To get to the park, guests will first take a 30-minute drive out from Kuching city to the jetty where the cruise boat awaits. At the jetty, guests board a boat which takes them along the mangrove river towards the South China Sea. Depending on tidal conditions, playful pods of elusive Irrawaddy dolphins may be sighted in the vicinity.

Along the river and tributaries

of the National Park, proboscis monkeys and crocodiles are frequently spotted.

As the final, flaming hues of sunset begin to fade, fireflies make their presence known in the form of a million twinkling lights illuminating the darkness.

After slowly cruising back to the jetty, guests will be treated to dine on delicious local fare for dinner just a 10-minute drive away, before returning to Kuching.

•• Tel: 6017-8546656 (Denise) / 6011-19833961 (Hajat) Email: dajatjohar@gmail.com FB: @DAjatTravelTours W: www.rindokaticonservation.com

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a nostalgic journey on

THE NORTH BORNEO RAILWAY

(NBR) Nova Renata

O valuable artefacts from ne of Sabah’s most

the British Colonial Era, the North Borneo Railway (NBR) was established back in 1896, built by an English engineer with the help of his Murut assistant. The NBR features a vintage British Vulcan steam locomotive which was designed and built by the Vulcan Foundry in England as part of the last order before the factory

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converted to diesel and electric locomotive construction.

As the rest of the world switches to bullet trains and Mass Rapid Transits (MRT), Sabah is lucky to still have a functioning ‘choo choo’ train that runs on steam. Nonetheless, it was not all roses and sunshine for the NBR. Almost two decades back, when Sabah’s roads were nearly fully paved, the authorities almost shut down its operation thinking

that the railway tracks will soon be obsolete following the use of automobiles. Thankfully, certain concerned parties have raised a petition, hence, keeping the North Borneo Railway alive for the new generation and tourists alike.

Under the management of Sutera Harbour Resort and the Sabah State Railway Department, the newly refurbished North Borneo Railway now operates twice a week on

Wednesdays and Saturdays. The train departs from the Tanjung Aru station at 10am, heading towards Papar and making several pit stops in between.

From Papar, the train will make a turn back for the Tanjung Aru station with a schedule of arriving at 1.30pm.

In the age of speed and hectic lifestyles, where one practically rushes from one destination to another, sitting back and relaxing

is considered a rare luxury. One of these days, why not reward your hard work by allowing yourself the luxury of sitting back and relaxing in a vintage Vulcan steam train?

A ride on the North Borneo Railway offers passengers a deeply nostalgic and romantic experience of a bygone era.

CHUG, CHUG, CHUGGING ALONG…

From the Tanjung Aru Station, the North Borneo Railway train will chug along the small towns of Putatan, Kinarut and Kawang before reaching its terminus in Papar.

In addition to its nostalgic and romantic novelty, the best thing about the train ride is the range of scenery you’ll encounter along the way – from rustic countryside and bucolic old towns to verdant hillside forests and places of cultural interest.

In Putatan, you will be able to see small shop houses that look like those from a decade ago. Slowly, the development

of Kota Kinabalu City begins to slip away as the train rolls into the countryside. One of the best views along the route between Putatan to Kinarut is the Lok Kawi Bay, which offers a serenely picturesque view of the South China Sea. Aside from a luxurious view outside the window, you will also be served with a sumptuous breakfast consisting of Tenom coffee or Sabah tea, as well as a delightful array of local cakes! Savour the springy Bajau penjaram cake, also known as the ‘UFO cake’ and pais ubi kayu -steamed cassava cake, wrapped in fragrant banana leaf.

In Kinarut, the train will make a 30-minute pit stop, allowing passengers to disembark and take the chance to visit the Tsim Shen Tsui Temple – a Buddhist temple which features 18 statues of Buddhist monks, a 20-foot monolithic smiling Buddha and a lotus pond dedicated to Kwan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. One of the largest Buddhist temples in Sabah, the Tsim Shen Tsui

Temple boasts an intricate architectural design and a setting that displays the amalgamation of local culture and Buddhism.

Passing through Kawang, you will be able to drink in an abundance of greens in the vast mangrove jungles, fruit orchards and paddy fields. For those who are keen to go shopping, the Papar Tamu (open air market) welcomes you with wide open arms as the train makes another 30-minute stop in Papar before turning back.

In addition to offering a myriad of souvenirs, food and other precious trinkets, the Papar Tamu is where you can meet the locals and absorb bits and pieces of their culture. The merchandise sold at the Tamu are also often cheap to a fault!

THE JOURNEY HOME

As the train rolls back to where it came from, we are served with the Tiffin Set Lunch – consisting of delectable servings of hinava (a traditional raw mackerel dish marinated

with lime juice, shallots and ginger), fried spiced mackerel fillet, stir fried fern shoots with fresh prawn, fish curry with okra, BBQ boneless chicken served with Sabah brown rice, as well as a fruit platter and local popsicles for dessert.

A ride on the North Borneo Railway turned out to be pleasing to more senses than one. The tour presents the opportunity to experience history, local lifestyle, drink in beautiful sceneries, and sample local delicacies all in one ride!

The NBR tour is priced at RM358.50 (BND120.50) nett per adult /per child (age 4 years old and above).

Complimentary for children 3 years old and below.

For more info on the North Borneo Railway, visit www.suteraharbour.com or contact: Tel: 6088-308500 Fax: 6088-311136 E: nbrinfo@suterahharbour. com.my

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trail

The Islands & Beaches of Kota Kinabalu T he coral islands just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu have been attracting visitors to its shores for centuries. From wandering fishermen in the past to sun seekers and water sport buffs of today, the islands continue to captivate with its clear waters, underwater life and sand beaches.

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amutik, Manukan and Sapi are the most popular islands in the park, taking between 15-20 minutes to get there by boat from the city. A clear day will afford gorgeous views of the forest clad islands as you approach them, and towards the city, views of Mt. Kinabalu in the distance. Picnic tables and tented dining areas for larger tourist groups line the beaches while water sport centres offer a

host of activities from snorkelling to diving, parasailing, windsurfing and banana boat rides.

Wet, wild and wonderful Day trippers throng the islands during peak tourist season and school holidays so if you want to get away from the crowd, spending the day on a pontoon is just the ticket. Borneo Reef World (FB: @BRWKKS) operates the largest pontoon in

Southeast Asia, and the second largest in the world. They offer a range of water sports like snorkelling, kayaking, jet skiing, banana boat, sea walking, scuba diving and parasailing.

Sea walking is a novel way to explore the underwater realm, especially for non-swimmers as no swimming skills are required.

With a helmet securely fastened over your head to keep you dry from the neck up, you are lowered

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1. Gayana Marine Resort 2. Banana boat ride 3. Seawalking 4. North Borneo Cruise 5. Beach views 1

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Coral Flyer (FB: @coralflyer) is the longest island-to-island zip line in Borneo and is an exhilarating ride between the islands of Sapi and Gaya. A short jungle trail leads you to the take off platform on Gaya where you gear up in safety equipment before zipping over to Sapi. Be sure to keep your eyes open so you don’t miss a thing.

Cruise into the sunset

to the seabed where you can take a walk while being surrounded by amazing marine life. It’s the absolute freedom of not having to worry about breathing underwater, or messing up your hair, that is quite surreal. It’s a great family sport that anyone from the age of 10 and above can do safely.

The pontoon has an Underwater Observatory Aquarium which gives you the extraordinary experience of being

underwater as schools of fish swirl about or dart in and out of the coral reefs while up above, the Fish Education Platform showcases the ocean’s big fish and brings home a message to viewers on marine conservation in a bid to promote awareness on sustainable seafood.

Take a break from soaking up the sun on the beach and enjoy panoramic views of the islands from above. At 250m long, the

The islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park are beautiful by day and night. The recently launched North Borneo Cruise (www. northborneocruises.com) is a 2-hour scenic cruise past the islands of the marine park and down the central coast gliding along the city’s famous Waterfront. Take your pick of a sunset cruise or an after-dark soiree and be dazzled by the natural hues of sunset and twinkling city lights. On the main deck, an air-conditioned— fully enclosed and unimpeded by weather—buffet dining area combines sightseeing with on-stage live performances

including a Bamboo Orchestra performance on weekends.

Island sojourn Once the day trippers have left, Manukan Island will slowly ease into tranquillity and you can enjoy all the comforts of the Sutera Sanctuary Lodge Manukan (www.wavetune. com/sslweb/sslwww) amid the soothing sounds of the sea and views of the setting sun in the horizon. While over on the other side of Gaya Island behind the sprawling water villages is Malohom Bay and Polish Beach where the luxury island resorts of Gayana Marine Resort (echoresorts.com/gayana), Bunga Raya Resort (echoresorts. com/bungaraya), and Gaya Island Resort (www.gayaislandresort.com) offer privacy and exclusivity with breathtaking views of the South China Sea from their beachside and hillside villas.

Tropical paradise comes pretty close to describing the island resorts of Gaya as you will be truly pampered with spa treatments, delectable cuisine, luxurious accommodation and endless ocean views with gorgeous sunsets to end each day.

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biG trail

The Temburong Bridge is slated to finish sometime this year and while this ease of access to our fourth district is a fantastic opportunity in so many avenues in Brunei, it also means something else that has most certainly been on everyone’s minds: ROAD TRIP!

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utting off the one to two-hour journey through Limbang to get to Temburong by car means reducing the length to travel from Brunei to Kota Kinabalu – the land below the wind, and one of the many favourite locations for Borneans to get their holiday groove on without hopping on a plane. The reduced time means you’ll get to Kota Kinabalu faster, or for the more adventurous, it means you get to explore a bit more!

We at BiG love a good road trip (although we would be remiss to not remind our readers of the ease of flying to Kota Kinabalu via Royal Brunei), and in celebration of the Temburong Bridge, we thought we’d take this time to point out the interesting places you can visit on a road trip to Kota Kinabalu, or back.

LAWAS

Straight out of Temburong and the first town you’ll pass is Lawas – a little strip of Sarawak territory located smack dab between Temburong and Sabah. You can opt to bypass the town completely, or stay a little while.

If you’re in a 4wd vehicle, you can go through old logging tracks to reach the Merarap Hotspring – a privately owned property with a number of hot spring pools, or perhaps go a bit further down to visit the Kelabit Highlands – home to the Lun Bawang ethnic group and a great place to do some jungle trekking and birdwatching. If you’re not that adventurous, never fear, you can head to the Pasar Besar Lawas (Central Market) for some fruit shopping!

BEAUFORT

SIPITANG

The next stop is in Sabah in the district of Sipitang. This is home to the small Lundayeh village of Long Pasia – surrounded by a treasure trove of plants and greenery. But if you’re not looking to stray too far away from your route, then stop by the Esplanade – an Instagram-worthy waterfront walk that’ll give your legs some much needed exercise for the long journey.

PAPAR Everyone stops in Papar, and there’s a really, really good reason for this: FRUITS! This is an agricultural town and it’s very obvious from their wares available for sale at their weekly Open Market. Your car is going to smell like durian for days, but who’s complaining?

The town of Beaufort is small enough to walk around in, or you can just keep your eyes open and take in the view of small two-storey shops lining the streets, giving this town an old-town and rustic feel. For a bit of an adventure, go down a bit further to Kuala Penyu to visit the Klias Wetlands – a mangrove forest reserve along the Klias River.

TEMBURONG

We would be remiss to not add Temburong on this list, because chances are there are plenty here that you haven’t seen.

From visiting the Temburong Art & Culture Heritage Gallery to strolling through Tamu Aneka Bangar, you can while away some time here very peacefully.

But if you have more time, we would recommend tapping into your adventurous side and visiting the Ulu Temburong National Park – the conservation ground of our rainforests and the crown jewel of Brunei’s prized green spaces.

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getaway

F a ntas ti c Fuji Wan Zainal Abidin

HOSHINOYA Fuji sits facing Lake Kawaguchi, one of the five lakes that surround Mt Fuji – Japan’s iconic and highest mountain at 12,388 feet, that has thousands scaling its summit in pilgrimage every summer and has inspired countless artists with its peerless beauty. It is against the backdrop of this unparalleled view that Wan Zainal Abidin checked into HOSHINOYA Fuji for a modern glamping experience.

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have stayed in HOSHINOYA Tokyo before so I am quite familiar with the Japanese hotel brand, and was thoroughly excited at this opportunity to experience a different side of Japan by immersing myself into nature and mapping out a totally different holiday zeitgeist.

Check-in takes place in a modern cabin at the base of the

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hill, nestled among homes and shops, and guests are provided with a backpack in our chosen style and colour, filled with glamping essentials such as binoculars, headlights, bird call, heat packs and even biscotti for an emergency snack!

Guests are then transported to the cabins up on the hills in customised HOSHINOYA

Jeeps, and this is where the glamping experience begins.

40 guest rooms nestle on natural terraced terrains with expansive glass windows affording each room a different view of Mt Fuji in all her glory.

The resort was designed by Rie Azuma, who has had her hand in designing all HOSHINOYA resorts throughout the world, and in this instance, the designer focused on creating a space that places their guests amidst nature. Guests enter their cabin and are greeted with majestic views of Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji – a view guests can enjoy from the inside or the outside of their cabins. Generously sized

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balconies are decked out with comfy cushions, a low table and a fire pit complete with heated blankets to encourage guests to spend time outdoors, even on cold winter evenings. As a matter of fact, I spent every evening catching the sunset from this vantage point before heading out to dinner.

The remaining outdoor spaces are designed to be discovered as guests climb up the resort’s premises from their cabins.

The dining hall is located in the biggest structure on the property, which also houses the front desk and a souvenir shop selling a smart selection of collectibles associated with the

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1. A view of Mt Fuji in the autumn 2.Beautiful views of Mt Fuji from

the HOSHINOYA cabins 3. A deli-style breakfast 4. The cloud terrace at HOSHINOYA Fuji 5. The cabin at HOSHINOYA Fuji 6. The reception area at HOSHINOYA Fuji

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area and the resort, and with its high ceiling and wide windows overlooking a red cedar forest, the hall pays homage to the great outdoors. The centerpiece of the dining hall is a large grilling station clad in natural timber, and here the chef takes center stage: nightly presenting beautifully cooked game or meat depending on the season’s offering.

Just below the dining room is where I had the most delicious Dutch oven dinner on the first night of my stay. Guests at the HOSHINOYA get to prepare their own food, glampingstyle, from an ample supply of traditional Japanese game like

venison with the use of a Dutch oven, all served in a glamorous outdoor setting.

A short climb up from the dining room takes guests on a journey to the Cloud Terrace - a series of cleverly designed platforms where various outdoor activities take place throughout the day – right up to the Library Café at the top of the hill, which is where I spent most evenings enjoying postprandial drinks while watching live traditional music performances, vintage cinema classics, or just toasting marshmallows over the communal open fire. These fireside lounges come equipped with cushions and blankets, and

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attentive staff to attend to your every whim and fancy.

Some of the curated activities that take place at the Cloud Terrace that should not be missed include making your own Bread Bowl Breakfast and making local coffee over an open fire in the mornings. The complimentary afternoon tea is a hit too, with guests making their own sweet cakes in personalised skillets served with a variety of delicious toppings. The wood stove in the café burns throughout the year, warmly greeting guests who make the trek to the top of the resort.

Much like the cabins, the public areas were designed to bring

guests closer to nature.

Like most visitors to the resort, I took the time to visit neighbouring local villages to sightsee, sample delicious local cuisine like the Oyster Hoto (a noodle specialty of the Yamanashi region) and indulge in various outdoor adventures. My most memorable adventures must be trekking with a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and the cycling tour – a rugged bike ride through the town of Shimoyoshida and taking a trail through the snowed forests of Mt. Fuji with pit stops at the Fuji Shrine, lava tree molds and a coffee break at the cutest café truck I have ever seen.

And on days when I did not feel like venturing out at all, it was such a delight to sit in the comfort of my cabin, watching the ever-changing vista of Mt. Fuji with the billowing clouds above it, just appreciating nature at its best and enjoying my modern glamping experience, as if I’m riding on the clouds!

HOSHINOYA FUJI 1408 Oishi, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minami Tsuru-gun, Yamanashi, 401-0305 JAPAN https://hoshinoya.com/fuji/

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buzz

The ASEAN Tourism Forum 2020

Embrace the Next Generation of Travel This year marked the 39th anniversary of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) and this year, the honour of hosting this well-known event went to our little Sultanate.

Annually bringing together ASEAN members in a united effort to promote the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as one tourist destination, the event saw the arrival of exhibitors, buyers, trade delegates and members of the media from all 10 ASEAN nations in Brunei. Namely: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, LAO PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam.

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eld from 12-16 January 2020 at the BRIDEX International Conference Centre, with ATF TRAVEX taking place from 14-16 January, this year’s ATF focused on shedding the old and embracing a new generation of travellers, with a theme aptly named ‘ASEAN: Together Towards a Next Generation of Travel’. The new generation of travellers are those with a multi-device mindset and are accustomed to the fast pace of the modern world, where the fastest bookings and ease of travel can be sorted remotely with a click of a button, and this kind of speedy efficacy influences their travel choices.

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On 14 January 2020, hosted by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism for all ATF delegates, the ATF 2020 Opening Ceremony was held at the grand Indera Samudera ballroom at The Empire Brunei. The event was graced by the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, who officiated the opening of the ASEAN Tourism Forum as well as the launch of the new ASEAN Tourism website.

His Royal Highness was greeted by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awg Haji Ali bin Apong, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism as well as the Chairman of ATF 2020, along with the ASEAN Tourism Ministers.

His Royal Highness was then treated to a mini showcase by the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications along with Huawei Technologies (Brunei), and a demonstration on the use of Virtual Reality Technology in travel. His Royal Highness was then briefed on Digital Technologies for Smart Tourism by Awg Haji Muhammad Nazri bin Haji Muhammad

Yusof, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, as well as the 5G Technology in Smart Travel by the Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Technologies Brunei, Kevin Zhang.

It was a lively evening filled with performances by local artists, who performed notable cultural dances and hits from each ASEAN nation throughout dinner. The performances culminated in a rousing performance by Hans Anuar, Yaniety Junaini, Ruby Chong, Qeez Idrus, Dayat Ahim, Fame Masri, Yasmeen Liew, Dydy, DJ Lela, Arif Yahya, Vivace Adagio, Seri Mulia and the Lively Dancers Group, who belted out the

original song ‘We Are the Best’ to an enthusiastic audience.

ATF exhibitors, buyers, trade delegates and members of the media alike swarmed His Royal Highness upon his departure, taking the golden opportunity for a selfie, a few words of welcome and thanks, or just a handshake and a smile.

ATF TRAVEX had kicked off earlier in the day, taking place at the BRIDEX Exhibition Hall, with TRAVEX sessions, media briefings and bilateral meetings peppered throughout the threeday event at different venues.

ASEAN members also took the time to treat ATF buyers, exhibitors and media by hosting special-themed lunches and

dinners with their own nation’s theme, entertaining guests with cultural song and dance performances.

The future of modern travelling was the focal point for this year’s ATF, which introduced opportunities to further the dialogue at official meetings and at ATF TRAVEX – the world’s largest ASEAN destination, product and service showcase.

For three days, the ATF TRAVEX event was held as a platform for the promotion, selling and buying of regional or individual tourism products of the ASEAN member countries. Its point was to promote the ASEAN nations as a single destination of multi attractions, and work together toward increasing the number of arrivals into ASEAN member states while raising awareness on Intra-ASEAN travel.

ATF 2020 culminated with the ASEAN Tourism Ministers Press Conference held on 16 January 2020, the last day of the event. Held at the Indera Samudera Grand Hall at The Empire Brunei, the tourism ministers of each ASEAN nation assembled to address the media on concerns about future plans with ASEAN tourism.

The ATF Closing Ceremony commenced straight after the press conference, where the ASEAN Tourism Awards Presentation Ceremony was also held. Awards were given out to those at the forefront of each nation’s tourism industry, handed on stage by their own tourism ministers.

Speaking briefly in regards to hosting the ATF 2020 event in Brunei, Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awg Haji Ali bin Apong, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism as well as the Chairman of ATF 2020, spoke warmly, “I’m very happy with all the preparations that were made for the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2020, which was managed wonderfully

by TTG Asia. The point of all of this is to attract tourists to come to the region, but as the host country, it’s also an advantageous opportunity to introduce visitors to Brunei and to make us a choice destination among ASEAN nations as well.”

The ASEAN Tourism Ministers Press Conference was held on 16 January 2020 and was attended by the Ministers of Tourism in ASEAN member nations, led by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awg Haji Ali bin Apong, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism in Brunei as well as the Chairman of ATF 2020.

Several points were discussed during the press conference, which took place within the framework of ASEAN Tourism Forum 2020, and covered points from the 23rd Tourism Ministers Meeting held on 15 January 2020, among them: In 2019, ASEAN saw an increase of 7% in international arrivals (133 million in total) according to statistics. The number of intra-ASEAN tourist arrivals accounts for about 36.7%.

Digital tourism is recognised as one of the key activities to be aligned to enhance the public’s experience in assessing information and services. ASEAN digital tourism is currently under consideration to be adopted by the ASEAN leaders at the 37th ASEAN Summit which will be held in Viet Nam toward the end of 2020.

The Ministers welcome the development of festival tourism 2020, which highlights the various festivals and activities in ASEAN Member States throughout 2020.

In 2019, the ASEAN Plus Three region attracted 244.5 million international visitor arrivals (an increase by 5.8%), and the Ministers are optimistic that the tourism industry in the region would continue their growth as the ASEAN Plus Three nations strengthen their cooperation through mutually beneficial projects and activities.

The Ministers endorsed the ASEAN Plus Three Framework on Environment Management Standards and also agreed to develop the successor document to the APT Tourism Cooperation Work Plan in 2020 to synergise the subsequent work plan with the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP) 2016-2025.

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appetite

Must Eats in Kuching Kuching is the capital and the most populated city in Sarawak, and is known for many attractions such as the Sarawak Cultural Village, the Kuching Waterfront, the Cat Museum, the Sarawak Museum and so much more. But to some people, it is also known as the foodie capital of Borneo.

There’s plenty to see in Kuching, but there’s plenty to eat too! We round off just a few (there are actually so many) of our favourite dishes to snack on when we visit the Cat City.

Sarawak Laksa

Kolo Mee While Kolo Mee (or ‘Kolok Mee’) can be found throughout Borneo, it is actually a signature dish from Sarawak. The key to this dish is its delicious simplicity: boiled egg noodles with a light soy sauce mixed with oil, topped with minced meat or pork, chopped green onions and fried shallots, and served with a bowl of clear soup.

This spicy noodle soup dish has hints of spices such as cumin, coriander and nutmeg as well as fresh herbs like lemongrass, galangal and chili, which are blended together to make a paste which is then used as a base for the soup.

Coconut milk is added when the stock is ready, the broth is then ladled over noodles and served with a wedge of lime and a dollop of sambal. A true Sarawakian delicacy!

Belacan Bee Hoon Uniquely Sarawakian, you will be hard-pressed to find a restaurant outside of Kuching that serves this dish. The soup base of this noodle is made with belacan (shrimp paste), and is served with bee hoon (rice vermicelli), garnished with shredded cucumbers, bean sprouts, sliced cuttlefish and century egg. The resulting taste is tangy, spicy and sweet, and if you’re fan of belacan, then you must try this dish!

Dayak Cuisine

Umai Sarawak A traditional dish that comes from the Melanau people of Sarawak, this is a dish of raw fish or prawns mixed with onions, chillies, salt, vinegar and crushed peanuts. Acidic lime juice cooks the raw seafood without heat, and is also responsible for the burst of flavour on your tongue. Refreshing and delicious, this is a dish that is usually eaten as an appetiser but will taste great on its own.

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Dayak cuisine is simply rustic food at its best. Divided into the Dayak Bidayuh cuisine and Dayak Iban cuisine (similar but with different methods of cooking and preparation), the meals in your typical Dayak cuisine are prepared using ingredients you can find in the jungle, then cooked through natural fermentation or over a slow fire in a bamboo. Simple food simply cooked? As Borneans, we recognise that this is the best kind of meal.

Ais Kacang A true ABC mixologist will have shaved ice, fresh fruits, nuts, fruit jellies, sago, a drizzle of palm sugar syrup and then a topping of coconut for your standard Ais Kacang.

There are many variations, but whatever it is, you’ll definitely enjoy a bowl of Ais Kacang on a hot day!

Catering Services Standard Package

40 80

lamb doners & chicken doners

OR

KIDS lamb doners & KIDS chicken doners

we also provide a customise menu to better fit your needs +673 718 8803 to customise your menu.

casbahlondonkebab casbahlondonkebab www.casbahlondonkebab.com

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eat , drink Brunei Pamela Fletcher All restaurants in Brunei are closed for prayers between noon and 2pm on Fridays.

Excapade Shokudo (Serusop) As long-time fans of the well-loved local Japanese restaurant, we were ecstatic when news of Excapade Shokudo Serusop’s reopening reached our ears. With 11 other branches throughout Brunei (including their recent opening at One Riverside) and another two in Miri, Sarawak, you’d think we’d already have our fill of Excapades to replenish our Mini Salmon Mayo and California Roll cravings whenever and wherever.

But if you’ve patronised their new Serusop branch and taken in the exuberant settings for yourself, you’ll definitely understand where our enthusiasm stems from!

Flashing a rejuvenated concept to match a fresh new vibe, the calming interior of the brand new Serusop outlet is luminously decked in wood and seats more than 120 diners with four private rooms upstairs. The former Excapade Serusop opened in 2008 but its relocation to a much bigger space welcomes more patrons to enjoy their favourite dishes in a new refined atmosphere – and served with impeccable service, as usual.

•• Unit 4 & 5, Spg 86, Complex PHB, Kg Delima Satu, Jln Muara Open Daily: 11am–10pm Tel: 673-2335512 / 8736880 FB: Excapade Japanese Cuisine IG: @excapade

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Iskandar Curry House They say the best murtabak can be found at Iskandar Curry House – the purveyor of most of Brunei’s favourite murtabak since it first opened its doors in Lambak many, many years ago.

They’ve ventured out with a new branch located at One Riverside.

Its first location was based on function: squeezing in enough varieties of tables and chairs to accommodate the large crowds that come here. They definitely had more ideas about the interior with their second branch, and there is a decidedly kampong rustic feel to it.

Vintage images of Brunei adorn the walls, and there’s no doubt that this is certainly a prettier

version of the Iskandar Curry House than what we’re used to.

Yet thankfully, its interior doesn’t detract from the fact that this is a place for any selfrespecting curry head, and if you have never tried a murtabak from Iskandar Curry House before (likelihood: slim), this will certainly be a case of love at first whiff.

In case it wasn’t clear, when at Iskandar, eat murtabak. It comes with a choice of Beef Curry or Dalca and you can choose to have it with the full set of condiments (highly recommended). The condiments, namely acar, dhal with potatoes, corned beef and sardines, might sound like odd complements to

your average murtabak, but at Iskandar’s, don’t judge it until you try it. Put all four of those condiments on your murtabak, ply it with curry, and dig in. With your hands. Getting messy is just part of the fun.

Murtabak variations in the menu include banana fillings, and egg and onion fillings.

They also serve a mean dish of Nasi Lemak. And you should definitely try their nasi briyani and, our personal favourite, their Fish Head Curry.

••

#B5 One Riverside, 1 Jln Gadong, BSB Open daily 9am-9pm Tel: 673-2422438 IG: @iskandarcurryhouse

riwaz the Indian culinary journey

CONVERSATIONS OVER A GOOD MEAL IS PRECIOUS 11.30am - 2.30pm | 6.30pm - 10.30pm Closed on Mondays | radissonbrunei #RiwazBrunei #RiwazRadisson

Nanyang Food Garden One Riverside has become a real gem when it comes to not knowing what to eat. The options here are enough to satisfy most gastronomic cravings, offering lunch and dinner diners choices from Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine to café and Western offerings.

But if you’re looking for something Asian to fill your tummy, look no further than Nanyang Food Garden.

Even if they didn’t serve good food, you’d still be tempted to go into the brightly lit, retro and attractively furnished restaurant. Marble topped tables harken back to kopitiam days of old, while pendant lights hanging from the ceiling and a patterned black and white floor pushes the interior into sophisticated territory. You get for what you pay for when you eat in these natural light-filled surroundings. Dishes that come to you are not particularly elevated to any luxe standard, but they are plentiful: our Nasi Goreng Kampung came in a heaping of rice, keropok, eggs and acar, while our Tteokbokki came in a cauldron-sized bowl.

And like the name suggests, there’s plenty of Southeast Asian delicacies

to love in its menu, but you’ll also find a good amount of Korean fare as well. Seeing as they share their venue with Daeon Korean Restaurant, the reason for this isn’t too much of a stretch. It didn’t matter one iota to our happy little group, as we ordered a combination of Indonesian and Korean for our lunch, and some dim sum for good measure.

Props must go out to the waiting staff, who were super helpful in narrowing down our dining decisions (this happens when three indecisive but ravenous females try to pick a meal from a large menu of Asian goodies). And as a restaurant that hopes to cover most of what we love to eat in Southeast Asia, new food items are regularly introduced in their menu. But if you’re looking for a pretty place to eat that serves some of your Asian favourites, we really couldn’t recommend Nanyang enough.

•• A3-G One Riverside, 1 Jln Gadong, BSB Open daily 9am-10pm Tel: 673-2243333 IG: @nanyangfoodgarden

Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam Jalan Tasek, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8211, Brunei Darussalam.

T +673 2244272 E ENQUIRIES.BRUNEI@RADISSON.COM RADISSON.COM/BRUNEI

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eat , drink

Aqua S Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Aqua S has just opened its first Malaysian outlet at the Spring Mall.

The soft serve creations on their menu are evocative of fond childhood memories, by incorporating popping candy, candy floss, popcorn and even a gigantic toasted marshmallow! As ethereal as their menu items look, Aqua S is dedicated to serving desserts that taste as good as they look.

The brand’s signature flavour is sea salt but other popular flavours include tofu, strawberry cheesecake, pandan and passion fruit. To keep things fun and fresh, limited edition toppings are occasionally introduced to the menu.

For the month of April, Aqua S will be introducing limited edition Easter-themed flavours.

Sarawak Irene Chan

Indah House Kuching Opened in 2014, Indah House was initially conceived as a café, art platform and homestay, serving mostly cakes and coffee.

The current menu has since undergone many changes. With a greater focus on healthy eating and sustainable practices, there is an extensive selection of vegan and vegetarian options, as well as plenty of local fare – which make use of fruits and vegetables grown by Indah’s team of dedicated staff.

No trip to Indah is complete without ordering their nasi lemak, made with coconut painstakingly grated and milked by the café owners themselves. The rice also uses a nutritious mix of Sarawak white and red rice.

All items on the menu incorporate Sarawakian elements, using locallysourced produce and ingredients such gula apong.

••

38 Upper China Street, Carpenter Street, 93000 Kuching Open daily 8am-8pm FB: @IndahHouseKuching IG: @indahhousekuching

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••

The Spring - Persiaran Spring, 93300 Kuching Open daily 10am-10pm FB: @aquasmalaysia IG: @aquas_my

Dolce Desserts Kuching Dolce means soft and sweet in Italian, which aptly describes Dolce Desserts’ soft serve.

Taking on the philosophy of less is more, Dolce Desserts emphasises on the natural sweetness of milk as the central flavour. Therefore, their soft

serves are lightly-flavoured, never cloying or heavy on the palate.

The signature item at Dolce is their Waffle of the Day – a towering stack of Belgium waffles with the customer’s choice of soft serve of the day, two toppings, and a sauce.

Aside from soft-serves, there are pancakes and an assortment of cakes on the menu. They also serve mocktails, as well as coffee and tea options. For those who prefer something savoury, Dolce offers a selection of sandwiches – a must-try being their decadently creamy egg salad sandwich.

••

Lvl 1, Sublot 27, Blk A2 Saradise Kuching, Jln Stutong, 93350 Kuching Open daily 11am-11pm FB: @dolce.kch IG: @dolce.kch

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eat , drink S a b a h Nova Renata

Tamaha Café at Toojou Hotel NON HALAL

Rooftop Poolside Grill at Hilton Kota Kinabalu Offering a beautiful bird’s-eye view of Kota Kinabalu city, the Rooftop Poolside Grill serves up a great selection of grill specialties and Western favourites, from steak and grilled seafood, to pizzas and pastas as well as salads. Must-tries include the Turkey Strips Breakfast Pizza, Chargrilled Chicken Pizza, Spaghetti Aglio Olio with Seafood and the Rigatoni served with Beef Ragout Sauce.

This rooftop paradise also caters for lunch, teatime snacks and dinner, and the hotel’s strategic location makes this a great place to gather for a corporate lunch. The classy and modern interior makes for an Insta-worthy template, especially against the backdrop of Kota Kinabalu city at night. The backdrop is equally stunning at dusk, and you can catch a gorgeous sunset view while enjoying chilled drinks with friends and loved ones.

The Rooftop Poolside Grill offers great food choices for kids - even the pickiest ones! On weekends, bring your family to enjoy a cooling dip at the pool before lunch.

The Rooftop Poolside Grill offers a choice of indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating 75 to 100 pax indoors and a smaller group of 20 to 40 outdoors. The restaurant is also available for bookings for exclusive events from birthdays to product launches.

•• Lvl 11, Hilton Kota Kinabalu, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman, Asia City, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Open daily: 12pm–11pm Tel: 6088-356000 FB: @hiltonkk

One of the latest lifestyle attractions in Kota Kinabalu, Toojou (pronounced too-joo) Hotel at Bandaran Berjaya serves up a triple threat of hotel, lifestyle cafe and a co-working place all in one building. Appealing to the crop of young millennials is the Tamaha (which means ‘glutton’ in local Sabahan dialect) Café, a lifestyle

café that not only caters to those with discerning taste buds, but especially those who care about aesthetics and ambiance.

Truly, the café - and the rest of Toojou Hotel - is a sight to behold, decorated with neon coloured lights and artistic murals that represent the vibrant Sabahan culture. The café can accommodate 50 to 60 people at a time and with its easy, casual, even hippy bohemian feel, it

POUND Restaurant

is the first of its kind to be available in Kota Kinabalu. All of POUND’s pizzas are made to order and served on their made-from-scratch, hand-tossed sourdough using imported Italian 00 flour. Crowd-pullers include the Peri Peri Chicken Pizza and the Truffle Mushroom Pizza for those looking for a vegetarian alternative. Other tried and true dishes are the Spaghetti Aglio Olio with a generous and crunchy serving of soft shell crab, the Black Angus Striploin and the Wagyu Tomahawk MB5.

POUND’s great ambiance makes it a great venue for gatherings, romantic dinners, as well as corporate lunches and dinners. Make your reservations early and ask specifically for a seat by the window, as you wouldn’t want to miss the glorious sunset view.

POUND is not a halal establishment but does not serve pork.

•• L1-29, Jesselton Mall, 3 Jln Haji Saman, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Open daily: 10am-10pm Tel: 6017-8778907 W: www.pound.com.my FB: @poundjesselton IG: @poundjesselton

NON HALAL

Another new addition to Kota Kinabalu’s eclectic dining specialties, POUND Restaurant offers a modern casual all day dining experience, complete with a great selection of desserts.

Situated in the newly opened Jesselton Mall in the heart of KK City centre, POUND offers a mouthwatering breakfast menu that’s available from 10am to 3pm, as well as an a la carte menu that’s available from 3pm onwards. The breakfast menu carries a tantalising array of dishes, such as the Full Breakfast (which includes chicken meatloaf, beef bacon, tomato, baked beans, mushroom, egg selection, hash browns and brioche) and the Mexican Lamb Quesadillas that is hard to get anywhere else.

The a la carte menu offers a great selection of Western favourites, POUND’s signature being their sourdough-based pizza, which

makes for a great hangout place with friends, or even alone if you need some inspiration to finish writing your book! The place is also available for bookings for exclusive events.

Serving a fusion menu of east meets west, the café prides itself in its classic Carbonara and its signature Nasi Lemak.

For something Japaneseinspired, you can opt for the Yakiniku - a dish of grilled beef and steamed rice. Bringing a bit of Hawaii is the Poke Bowl that is served with couscous and crispy salmon skin. For those who are watching their weight, the café also offers a selection of salads and healthy snacks.

Freelancers looking for an inspiring co-working space to get your work done, you can rent a space at the Opis co-working space just above the café for only RM30 (BND10) per day. While no food is allowed at the Opis co-working space, the café is just a fun slide down away!

•• 12, Jln Masjid Lama, Bandaran Berjaya 1, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Tel: 6088-534888 Open daily: 8am-10pm W: www.toojou.com/foods-drinks FB: @toojou IG: @toojou

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biG listings

Brunei

Guidelines: The restaurants and eateries listed are arranged by food types, and not in order of our preference. Reviews are written from a typical diner’s perspective and written based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the prior knowledge of the restaurants. Information given on menus, hours or prices may change and should be checked. In Brunei, all restaurants are closed between 12 noon and 2 pm on Fridays.

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY Armash Armash has been serving the residents of Tutong for two years before branching out to the capital. Serving a variety of North and South Indian cuisine, and Asian fare.

COFFEE BEAN & TEA LEAF, ONE RIVERSIDE One Riverside is currently every Bruneian’s favourite place to see and be seen at, with an idyllic promenade stretching from one end to another connecting its welldesigned eateries. So it came as no surprise when the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf officially unveiled its latest outlet at the luxury style apartments to the delight of both residents and non-residents.

Showcasing an enticing display of glistening baked goods from the moment you walk in, there’s no escaping the urge to indulge in a pastry or three when you’re there.

From fluffy donuts and flaky croissants to hearty muffins and sugar cookies, there’s also an entire glass display dedicated to cakes of all sizes to choose from. But don’t worry, glazed goods aren’t all they’re good at, the gourmet outlet also comes with a menu of delicious dishes that you can enjoy steaming hot while dining in or taken away to the comfort of your own home—still equally as delicious.

FB: @thecoffeebeanbrunei IG: @coffeebean_brunei

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OPEN DAILY 7.30am-10pm; No 5, Grd Flr & 1st Flr, Lot 56672, Bangunan Tian & Chuan, KG KIULAP (673 2672574)

Casbah London Kebab Pick lamb, chicken, beef or fish and have it dressed and wrapped your way – tikka, kebab, doner or shawarma style! A quick and deliciously meaty meal for hungry diners on the go.

OPEN DAILY; #G2a Grd Flr Times Square Complex, KG JAYA SETIA (673 2343001) (Times Square Branch) or #204 Spg 210 Kg Lambak, JLN BERAKAS (673 8803183) – Call for other branches

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Despite new coffee shops popping up around town, the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf undoubtedly remains the most popular purveyor of caffeine in Brunei with 12 branches throughout the country.

This global coffee chain continues to brew their specialty coffee and their ever-popular Ice-Blended coffee drinks for the masses.

OPEN DAILY 8am-11pm; G26 Grd Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Jln Jaya Setia, BERAKAS (673 2337358) – call for other branches

Riwaz A contemporary Indian restaurant that serves up traditional Indian cuisine with a modern twist!

OPEN 6.30pm – 10.30pm (closed Mondays); Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 2244272 ext 8873)

Tasek Brasserie A perfect spot to dine with family and friends in the heart of the city, Tasek Brasserie provides casual

biG listings OUR PICKS RANGING FROM QUICK & EASY MEALS TO LOBSTER & CAVIAR, THESE ARE OUR FAVOURITE HAUNTS AROUND TOWN! Amulya This North Indian restaurant serves our favourite briyani in town.

Grd Flr Jln Setia Square Berakas, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2339230) Chop Jing Chew Freshly made Roti Kahwin perfectly paired with a teh tarik 10 Spg 5 Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 2424132) Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant Arabic cuisine at its finest #1A&1B Heng Thai Property Centre Spg 22 Jln Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 2450009) – call for other branches Restoran Makan & Soto Rosmini Our favourite soto hangout 1 Spg 15, Jln Gadong (673 8719946) Mei Kong Coffee Shop A trip to Brunei isn’t complete without sampling their famous kolo mee 108 Jln Pemancha, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2240688) Kaizen Sushi served fresh on your table plus a variety of other Japanese cuisine Yayasan Complex Waterfront Side, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2226336) – call for other branches Pondok Sari Wangi Restaurant Serving the best of Indonesian cuisine 12-13 1st Flr Blk A Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2445043) – call for other branches Thien Thien Restaurant Purveyors of arguably the best Nasi Ayam in town 10 Grd Flr Mas Panchawarna Complex (673 2222435) – call for other branches Ximply Chriz Café Divine desserts, great coffee and scrumptious meals 8 Blk A Regent Square, Kiulap (673 2234918) TASTE OF ASIA VIETNAMESE PHO, THAI

TOM YAM, JAPANESE SUSHI, KOREAN KIMCHI AND BRUNEIAN AMBUYAT – THIS LIST COVERS MOST OF OUR FAVOURITE ASIAN DELIGHTS. Ahan Thai 10 Blk B Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2452852) All Seasons Restaurant 17 1st Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2338068) Aminah Arif 2 & 3 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2236198) – Call for other branches Aneka Rasa Blk A #16 & 17 Grd & 1st Flr Bgn Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yussof, Kg Kiulap (673 2231728) Anjung Layar Luncur (Nur Wanita Serasa Branch) Simpang 287, Pantai Serasa (673 2771879) Ar Ruhma Restaurant 329 Blk D Bgn Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 2427847) Axtivo Restaurant #12, Grd Flr, Hj Uthman Complex, Spg 13, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2335642) Babu’s Kitchen C44 Blk C Grd Flr Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 2457868) Bali Pit-Stop 15 &16, Spg 150 Grd Floor, Block A Bangunan Habza, Kiulap (673 7209992) Chatterbox Kopitiam 2 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbullah 2, Gadong (673 8201212) Eco Dermaga Kafé 2 Building, Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 7295999) Farmbasket Snack Bar A1, Grd Flr Blk A, Urairah Complex, Spg 88, Kiulap (673 2234666) – Call for other branches Gurkha Palace 47 Jalan Bunga Melor, Seria Town (673 3221474) Gratitude Café Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2341123) Great Taste Restaurant Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2233913)

Happy Dean Restaurant No 3, Grd Flr, Zainuddin Complex, Spg 11, Anggerek Desa, Berakas A (673 2340885) – Call for other branches Impian Rasa Restaurant #5 Bgn Pg Hjh Rafiah Spg 607 Jln Jangsak, Gadong (673 2653858) – Call for other branches Iron Chef Unit 5&6, Lvl 1, HuaHo Manggis Mall (673 2338888) Kaka Restaurant 2 & 3 Spg 100 Jln Jerudong (673 2672333) – Call for other branches Kitaro #2 Yong Siong Hai Building, Gadong (673 7323377 | 2457373) La Mee #1B & 1c Grd Flr Spg 411-12, Jln Kiarong (673 2430113) Lee Loi Fatt Blk A #7 Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2342384) – Call for other branches Mangrove Paradise Resort Spg 912 Kg Sungai Belukut, Jln Kota Batu (673 2786868)

Seasons Restaurant Lvl 2 The Centrepoint, Gadong (673 2422291) Seafood Palace #1, 2 & 3 Blk B An-Nuha Building, Kg Tanjung Bunut (673 2671299) Seaworld Neptune 8 Spg 791, Jerudong (673 2612613) Sate House Unit B9, Block B, Setia Kenangan II, Spg.150, Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2231017) Soto Pabo #9A Spg 222, Kg Pintu Malim (673 8686388) Sulbingsoo Korean Dessert Cafe Unit B7, Grd Flr, Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2234271) SPICY CURRY & WRAPS FROM ARABIC TO INDIAN CUISINE, CHECK OUT THESE RESTAURANTS IF YOU LIKE A SPICY KICK TO YOUR MEALS. Sugar ‘n’ Spice Unit B1, Grd Flr, Purnama Complex, Kiulap (673 2332493 / 8810493)

Amsarra Shawarma Grd Flr Block A, 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 7318545)

Saffron Restaurant 8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2235888)

Armash Restaurant No 5, Grd Flr, Bangunan Tian & Chuan, Kg. Kiulap (673 2672574) – Call for other branches

Sameer Restaurant & Catering G1 Grd Flr Sg Akar Sentral, Berakas (673 2336613)

Bombay Palace Restaurant #9 Grd & 1st Flr Blk B Bgn Pg Mainuddin & Anak2, Batu Bersurat (673 2427313) C’Fu Curry House Restaurant Spg 103 #5 & 6 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Md Salleh, Gadong (673 2457000) Delhi Darbar Restaurant & Catering Spg 38 Jln Jerudong (673 2672826) Le Taj 2-3 2nd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2238996)

Spices Restaurant #1 Grd Flr Blk A Aman Complex, Jln Muara (673 2330081) Ya Nur Restaurant #6 & #7, 1st Flr, Kompleks Hj Tahir 2, Gadong (673 8719986) Zaika Restaurant A4 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 3347430)

Lotus Family Restaurant 27B Grd Flr Delima Jaya Complex, Berakas (673 2342049)

WESTERN FOOD ITALIAN PIZZAS, AMERICAN STEAKS AND BURGERS, BRITISH COTTAGE PIES – WE LIST DOWN THE RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE THE BEST FROM THE WEST.

Rajah’s Restaurant 3 Grd Flr Blk A Bangunan PAP Umi Kalthum, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2240379)

Bello Café L1/12 Seri Kiulap Mall, Kiulap (673 2233989) – Call for other branches

MY Favoureat Restaurant 9 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2232828) MyTown Eating House Grd Flr The Crown Princess Complex, Jalan Tutong (673 2241880) Nyonya 3 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbollah, Gadong (673 2447090) Old Time Kopitiam G2 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Ibrahim, Kg Menglait (673 244 282) PappaRich Blk G Grd Flr Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2432333) Pho Hoa Restaurant #6 Grd Flr Blk B Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kg Kiulap (673 2236218) Rice Bowl 72 T.C.Y Building, Batu Bersurat (673 8630665) Sapphira Cake House 3 Grd Flr Seri Anigma, Kiulap (673 2232021)

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biG listings

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY dining in a relaxed atmosphere.

Customers can enjoy light snacks and a cool mocktail while lounging at the outdoor pool, or dine on the variety of cuisine from their ala carte menu or sumptuous buffets.

OPEN DAILY 6am-6pm; Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 2244272) THE EMPIRE BRUNEI

ROASTED SIP Brunei’s obsession with coffee is showing no signs of slowing, and as caffeine addicts, we’re not complaining! One of the few at the forefront of Brunei’s coffee industry is Roasted Sip, and with already two branches in Jerudong and Serusop, and their coffee beans in Brunei’s supermarkets, there’s no doubt that this is one of Brunei’s favourite coffee hangouts.

Their latest branch is situated at Pavo Point – that brand new sleek building in the city center that also houses the recently opened Jab Gym and Mr Baker’s Bakeshop. Outfitted in wooden and brass accents and furnished with plush seatings and rustic tables, Roasted Sip remains effortlessly trendy. Their coffee is on point, with plenty selections of snacks and cakes on the side.

Pavo Point, #15 1st Flr, Spg 37, Jln Kianggeh, BSB Tel: 673-2230407 FB: @roastedsip IG: @roastedsip

Atrium Café The Atrium Café is located on level 3 of the main Atrium building, nestled amidst The Empire’s signature grand marble columns and offering a spectacular view of the sea. Buffet breakfast and á la carte lunch are available from Monday to Friday, offering a variety of international and local cuisine.

OPEN 6.30am-10.30am (buffet breakfast) / 11.30am-3pm (à la carte lunch) / 2pm-4pm (à la carte lunch – on Fridays only)

Lobby Lounge The perfect place for casual or formal get-togethers or just to enjoy a cup of tea – the Lobby Lounge offers a selection of refreshments throughout the day and their popular traditional English High Tea in the afternoons.

OPEN DAILY 8am-10pm / 2pm-6pm (Daily Afternoon Tea)

Pantai Restaurant Offering semi buffet meals combined with daily specials, the elegant Pantai Restaurant offers a Daily Asian buffet dinner from 6pm to 9pm with a wide variety of tantalising options to choose from, or enjoy a midday meal with the family at their popular Weekend Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

OPEN 6.30pm-10pm (closed Thursdays) / 11am3pm (Weekend Brunch)

Pool Deck Located at the Beachfront on Level 1, enjoy the breeze from the beachside while you sip on cool beverages and enjoy light snacks in view of the swimming pool.

OPEN DAILY 7am-9pm

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biG listings

HAPPY CREAM Happy Cream has some seriously happy customers, thanks to their seriously good ice-cream. Their café located behind The Arch in Kiarong accommodates all of the ice-cream lovers, from the lip-smacking senior citizens to the sugar-happy toddlers, and it’s no surprise why. Offering a nice selection of their handcrafted premium ice-cream (made with no preservatives or stabilisers), this is a spot for you to sit down and actually enjoy your ice-cream. Their Belgian Waffles are perfect – the right amount of crisp, the right amount of texture, and perfectly proportionate to the scoop or two of ice-cream on top. Pair that with a cup of coffee (or Hot Milo because who doesn’t enjoy a cup of hot Milo?), and be prepared to be a very happy Happy Cream customer. #1 1st Flr, Bgn Majid Mohd, Jln Pasar Baharuddin, Gadong, BSB Tel: 673-8808983 FB: @happycream.co IG: @happycream.co

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biG listings Buccaneer Steak House 92-93 (B) 94 Grd Flr Jln McKerron, Kuala Belait (673 33 0406) Charcoal BBQ & Grill Restaurant Grd Flr Le Gallery Suites Hotel, Jln Tutong (673 2221171) – Call for other branches

Home Kitchen

by Tree-Bit Café D8 & D9 Lot 11620 Grd Flr Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 2429366) Kitchen of Jasmine

by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 8997333)

Cheezbox Café External Café, Ramp A, The Mall, Gadong (673 2425506)

Magherita Pizzeria #5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 8688884)

Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2232368) – Call for other branches

Pastamania G9A & G10A, Grd Flr, Times Square Shopping Centre, Spg 13-29, Jln Berakas ‘A’ (673 2338061) – Call for other branches

De’ Olde Cottage 2 Grd Flr Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2426982) – Call for other branches Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – Call for other branches Fratini’s Restaurant #1 Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2451200) – Call for other branches

Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2253000)

RMS Diner A5 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 3347455)

Wing-It #16 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 7224999)

RBC Lifestyle Cafe Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2220815)

COFFEE & CAFES GOURMET, PREMIUM-GRADE, SPECIALTY COFFEE – THIS LIST ACCOMMODATES THE BEST OF THE BURGEONING LOCAL COFFEE INDUSTRY.

Rovansil Restaurant #36-38 1st Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2337129)

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY

Balkony #10 Block C Shakirin Complex Kiulap (673 2230191)

Red Canopy Café #5 Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2453878) Ricardo’s #19 Jerudong Park Food Court Phase 2, Kg Jerudong (673 7276455) – WA only

PEZZO Grd Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2440068 | 7182323)

Sorriso Restaurant & Pizzeria #14 Blk B Grd Flr Regent Square, Kiulap (673 2233030)

Qasehmaisara Café House #206-209 2nd Flr Plaza Athirah, Jln Kubah Makam DiRaja (673 2789898)

Swensen’s #2.34-2.36 2nd Flr The Mall, Gadong (673 2451864)

Beanery & Co #81 A/1 Grd Flr, Jln Bunga Rambai, Kuala Belait (673 3347772) BELLUNO Café #2 Blk C Kiarong Complex, Kg Kiarong (673 2429010) Bloom Cafe by Mr Baker Grd Flr Block A 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 8768770) Brew Café & Bakery #47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 2427554)

BREW9 After much fanfare, Brew9 (pronounced like “Bruneian”) finally opened its doors to dessert drinkers craving for a respite from the usual bubble teas. Taking on a digital approach for their customers to order, pay and track their drinks via the Brew9 app (available on Google Play and the App Store), their innovative drinks and quirky nibbles are here to make waves. And if you’ve seen their luscious Supreme drinks made with premium fruits or their Belgium Hot Chocolate topped with generous double chocolate shavings around Instagram, you probably don’t need telling twice to try it out!

IG: @brew9.bn FB: @brew9.bn

Spaghettini Fine dining at its best, this restaurant offers authentic Italian and contemporary Mediterranean cuisine in divine settings, with a Daily Mediterranean à la carte dinner from 6pm to 10pm. A private room is available upon request for special occasions.

OPEN DAILY 6am-6pm

Zen Pavilion Located just beyond Pantai Restaurant on Level 1, Zen Pavilion offers customers an exclusive dining experience, watching chefs prepare excellent dishes on the teppanyaki grill with flare and offering some of the most authentic Japanese cuisine.

Daily à la carte dinner is available.

OPEN 6pm-9pm (closed Thursdays) – advance booking is required

Zest A stylish café located at the Atrium on Level 5, enjoy a hot beverage with a selection of pastries, cakes, savoury treats, confectionary and chocolates, made fresh daily with the finest quality ingredients.

OPEN DAILY 24 hours (midnight-6am for Empire Hotel residents only)

Caffé Bene Grd Flr Patio, The Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2340836) Caffé Verve #6A Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 8757382) The Collective Wildflower Café Grd Flr Royal Brunei Recreational Club (RBRC), BSB Chocolate Origin Grd Flr Block B, 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 2221865)

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E.A.T. Bakery Grd Flr Blk B, Little Soho, Spg 73-5-8, Jln Batu Bersurat, Kg Pengkalan Gadong (673 8664608) Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 2231777) – call for other branches Games & Lattes Café #E9 Grd Flr Blk E Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 2235200) Geo Eats No. 13, Spg 381, Kg Jerudong (673 8271381)

biG listings

Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17 Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 8997333) Ner Dee Café #F11 1st Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 7331783) Peppermint Café #209B, 2nd Flr, Wisma Jaya, Jln Pemancha, BSB, BS8811 (673 8622848) Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2241558) Rack & Brew #9 Blk H 1st & 2nd Flr Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 7299668) The Krema Coffee #D31 Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap (673 8973600) The Library Café #6 Blk C, Bangunan Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap t-Lounge by Dilmah 1st Flr Blk B Little Soho, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 2456128) Sweet As Sara Unit 1, Grd Flr, Blk A, Spg 150, Wisma PH Apong, Kiulap (673 8889169) DIVINE DINING EXQUISITE MEALS IN BEAUTIFUL SETTINGS – PERFECT FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

DABOBA Another one joins the bubble tea ranks in Brunei! Daboba only opened in December last year but it has already seared its mark on the hearts of boba lovers. Speaking of searing, Daboba’s signature drink is the decadent sister of the original pearl milk tea, the Roasted Brown Sugar Pearl Fresh Milk, which flaunts a slightly burnt caramelised finish, flambéed to a crisp sealing in the toasty sweetness. As for the second signature drink, we have three words for you: Honey. Golden. Pearl. Which makes them one of the first to introduce the golden variant into the local market.

Some of their drinks are only available in medium size, so you will be back to replenish your cravings. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Grd Flr, B10, Blk B, Aman Hills Shophouse, Jln Aman IG: @dabobabrunei

Gloria Jean’s Coffee G17 Citis Square, Berakas (673 2338452)

Atrium Café The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 418888)

Happy Cream Unit 1, 1st Flr, Bgn Majid Mohd, Jln Pasar Baharuddin, Gadong (673 8158587)

Dynasty Restaurant Grd Flr Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2430185)

High Frequency Lifestyle Café 1st Flr Unit 5 Blk B Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2428262) It’s a Grind Coffeehouse 1, Grd Floor, Bgn AlWarasah, Muara Town (673 2772424) – call for other branches Kapra Coffee #26 Grd Flr Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 2345656)

The Horizons Seafood Restaurant Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2233400) I-Lotus 20 Spg 12-26 Perumahan Rakyat Jati, Kg Rimba (673 2422466) Le Keris L2/22, 1st Flr, Seri Q-Lap Mall (673 2230149) Lobby Lounge The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 2418888)

Pantai Restaurant The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 2418888) Savy’s Brasserie 204 Lvl 2 Mabohai Shopping Complex, Mabohai (673 2240829) Senja Restaurant 8&9 Grd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2235313) Spaghettini The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 2418888) Tarindak d’Polo Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Jerudong (673 2612500) Tarindak D’Seni Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Centre, Kota Batu (673 2240422) GO GREEN HEALTHY AND VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY OPTIONS Brunei Detox Bar 9 Grd Flr, Abdul Razak Complex, BE3519 Mituo Vegetarian Restaurant #11 Block B Grd Floor PAP Norain Complex, Batu Satu (673 2222821) Pureland Vegetarian Restaurant #15 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Awg Ahmad bin Hassan & Anak-anak, Kiulap (673 2236503) The Healthy Habit Blk A, Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap BE1518 (673 2231030)

My Fried Chicken Grd Flr, Freshco Food Junction, Times Square, Kg Jaya Setia Nasi Katok Mama Express No 3 Blk A Grd Flr Kompleks Madang, Madang (673 8641681) Pan & Wok #28A Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2342836) RBC Express Fast Food #1 Grd Flr Blk A, Bangunan Hj Matussin, Kg Kiulap (673 2237253) Wayback Burgers Unit B10-11 Setia Kenangan II Spg 150 Kiulap (673 2236882) NON-HALAL OPTIONS Danes Café #102, Bgn Batu Bersurat, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 2428914) Golden Leaf Coffee House Blk 1 Grd Flr PAP Hjh Norain Building, Jln Batu Satu (673 2220422) – Call for other branches Phongmun Restaurant 2nd Flr Teck Guan Plaza Jln Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2229561) Sui Heng Restaurant Grd Flr Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2338321) Hua Hua Restaurant Grd Flr, Blk B, Bangunan Urairah, Kiulap

TienSing Vegetarian & Catering Restaurant 21-22 Bangunan Hj Hassan II, Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 2454988) QUICK EATS FAST AND DELICIOUS MEALS FOR THOSE ON THE GO Burgers & Grills F20, Jln Tengah Bangunan, Bowling Alley Seria, Kpg Pekan Seria (673 3221434) Chickilicious Unit 20, Grd Flr, Blk B, Spg 150, Regent Square, Kiulap (673 823 7518)

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biG listings

Sabah & Sarawak The restaurants and eateries listed are arranged by food types, and not in order of our preference. Reviews are written from a typical diner’s perspective and written based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the prior knowledge of the restaurants. Information given on menus, hours or prices may change and should be checked.

Credit Cards : AE | American Express MC | MasterCard V | Visa

EAT (SABAH) BORNEO WILD TREASURE Lot 27-0 Blk C Lrg Bundusan Square1D, Kota Kinabalu (6088 732 222) BRASS MONKEY Lot 1-0 Lorong Lintas Plaza 4, Kota Kinabalu (6088 61 543) CAFÉ DE VIE Lot D-0-6 Lorong Metro Town 3, Kota Kinabalu (6088 393 863) CAFÉ HARU 7, Lorong Gunung Juo, Taman Far East Kota Kinabalu (6010 935 1233) CIRCLE RESTAURANT Le Meridien Hotel, Kota Kinabalu (6088 322 222) EMPEROR’S DELIGHT Lot 6 Grd Flr Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 288 686) FONG IP CAFÉ Lot 100 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 213 618) GAM TONG HONG KONG RECIPE Lot G-823 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 833) GRANDCHAMPS CAVE & SHOP Unit S3A, Ground Floor, Block B, The Peak Vista, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 886) HANA JAPANESE RESTAURANT Lot S21&S22 Blk E City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 538 178) HUT STEAK HOUSE & RESTAURANT 29 Blk E Damai Plaza, Kota Kinabalu (6088 238 558)

KOREAN CLUB RESTAURANT 4 Jln Aru, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 213)

PARTY PLAY 117 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 311 210)

LITTLE ITALY Grd Flr Hotel Capital Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 231)

PASTA PASTA 108 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6014 371 4665)

MAD BEN CAFÉ Lot 121, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 255 073)

PEPPERMINT VIETNAMESE CUISINE No. 85 Grd Flr Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6012 802 4582)

MAI YAI THAI ORCHID RESTAURANT Lot 13 KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu (6088 234 841)

PORT VIEW SEAFOOD VILLAGE Lot 18 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 753)

MDM ING FISH NOODLE Lot 21 Towering Koidupan Perdana Jln Tambunan, Penampang (6016 831 8726)

PUSAS THE SMOKEHOUSE Ground Floor, S6, Jalan Signal Hill The Peak Vista, Kota Kinabalu (6088 299 199)

MR HO’S FINE FOODS L-72-G Grd Flr Blk L KK Times Square Phase 1, Kota Kinabalu (6088 222 623) NAGASAKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT No 19 Grd Flr Bangunan Harrison Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 216 623) NAM CHAI RESTAURANT BAH KUT TEH 10 Blk D Bdr Nam Tung, Sandakan (6089 612 603) NAN YANG CHIC KUT TEH Grd Flr Lot 47 Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6016 833 5722) NATURAL KITCHEN Lot No B10 & B11, Suria Sabah Shoppin Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 487 180) NISHIKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT Shop 4 Grd Flr 63 Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu (6088 230 582)

JOTHY’S FISH HEAD CURRY & BANANA LEAF Blk 1 Lot G9 Api Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 595)

OCTOBER COFFEE HOUSE Blk B The Peak Vista Lorong Puncak 1 Tjg Lipat, Kota Kinabalu (6010 346 954)

KIRISHIMA JAPANESE RESTAURANT Cititel Express No 1 Jln Singgah Mata 1 Asia City, Kota Kinabalu (6088 217 868)

OPEN KITCHEN Grd Flr, Unit 8, Blk 1, Metro Town, 88300, Kota Kinabalu (6088 254 161)

KOHINOOR NORTH INDIAN RESTAURANT Lot 4 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 235 160) 46

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

PANCAKE HOUSE Concourse Flr 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 110) Lot G94-94A Karamunsing Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 319 168)

RESTAURANT BABA & NYONYA RECIPE Blk E Grd Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6016 810 8206) RESTORAN MAKANAN SEDAP No 1-0-1 Blk B Jln Kolam Centre Phase 2 Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 247 459) SAILORS Lot 36 1st Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6088 731 960) SAKURA JAPANESE RESTAURANT G-23A & G-25, Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu (6088 273 604) SANTOLA CAFÉ Lot 14 Blk B Damai Point, Kota Kinabalu (6088 260 188) SENG HING RESTAURANT Ruang Sinsugan 2, Kota Kinabalu (6088 211 594) SEREMBAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Lot 126 Blk O Plaza Permai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 484 922) SUANG TAIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Lot 12 Blk A Grd Flr SEDCO Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 223 080)

SUPUL KOREAN BBQ RESTAURANT Lot S-1-8 1st Flr City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 844) TOSCANI’S Lot 14 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 242 879) THE B.E.A.N CAFÉ Lot 8-1, Lido Plaza, Jalan Nosoob, Penampang (6088 703 884) Café with a sofa lounge serving coffee and drinks, sandwiches, toasts, waffles, and desserts THE B SIDE Lot 21, Ground Floor, Lido Plaza, Jalan Nosoob Penampang (6088 715 453) – Hipster café offering all-day dining and specialty coffees VINO VINO BISTRO Unit J-57, 1st Flr, KK Times Square, 88100, Kota Kinabalu (6088 486 363) WAH SAN RESTAURANT D2-G Blk 17 Jln Pryer, Sandakan (6089 212 626) YAMAGOYA RAMEN Lot 109 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 253 701) YOSHIMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 388) YU KEE BAK KUT TEH 74, Jln Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 192)

EAT (SARAWAK) A ONE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Lrg Chew Siik Hiong 1, Sibu (6084 215 803) ABSOLUTE TRIBAL RESTAURANT Hills Shopping Mall, Kuching (6082 237 468)

ALFIAN RESTAURANT 52 Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 215)

BOULEVARD RESTAURANT 2228 Jln Saberkas, Lutong (6085 653 175)

ALL JOY CAFÉ 8-1 Jln Khoo Hun Yeang, Kuching (6082 243 535)

BUENAS FILIPINO LECHON & RESTAURANT 329 Jln Tj Batu, Bintulu (6086 310 860)

APOLLO SEAFOOD CENTRE 4 Jln Yu Seng Selatan, Miri (6085 420 813) APPLE RESTAURANT 78 Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Bintulu (6086 333 377) AROMA CAFÉ 126 Jln Tabuan, Kuching (6082 417 163) ASIAN EXPRESS RESTAURANT G40 The Spring, Kuching (6082 414 088) BEE HIONG RESTAURANT CAFÉ 157G Jln Muhibbah, Lawas (6085 285 137) BEEI JING RESTAURANT SDN BHD 157 Jln Kg Nyabor, Sibu (6084 330 955) BISMI RESTAURANT 27 Jln Sommerville, Bintulu (6086 331 835) BITES BY THE BATIK 38 Jln Pandungan, Kuching (6082 422 845)

CAFÉ CAFÉ AT ORIGINAL CARWASH Low 211-214, Section 9, KTLD, Rubber Rd, Kuching (6082 256 396) CAFÉ MIN XIN Lot 1126-27 Riam Comm Centre, Miri (6085 628 839) CAPITAL RESTAURANT 86 Jln Keppel, Bintulu (6086 331 160) CARVERY RESTAURANT Jln Abell, Kuching (6082 239 449) CASABELLA MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT Crown Square, Kuching (6082 346 612) CHEF AT HOME Lorong Green 1 Blk 10, Kuching (6016 858 5159) CHUAN HONG RESTAURANT 123 Jln Council SAman (6083 322 466)

BLA BLA BLA 27, Jln Tabuan, 93000, Kuching (6082 2330944) –

CROWN DYNASTY RESTAURANT Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Bintulu (6086 335 908)

BLACK BEAN COFFE & TEA 87, Ewe Hai Street, 93000 Kuching (6082 420 290)

CUPPA-KAP COFFEE Jln Song, Kuching (6019 8869636)

BOARDRIDERS CAFÉ Plaza Merdeka Jln Pearl, Kuching (6082 237 526)

DA MI XIANG GU TOU BAO RESTAURANT Tabuan Hts Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 458 952)

W H Y FROYO Crafted to give you the best tasting frozen yoghurt is its mission and Why at City Mall is certainly on the right track. Customers are quick to point out the yoghurt’s smooth and creamy texture with a choice of toppings that include fresh fruits, crunchy nuts and granola, crumbled cookies and fruit sauces. The yoghurt is homemade to maintain its freshness and flavour for your daily dose of healthy goodness and great taste on the go.

1st Flr, City Mall, Jln Lintas, 88300 Kota Kinabalu FB: @whyfroyo

biG listings DYNASTY CHINESE ESTAURANT Oil Town Comm Complex, Miri (6085 424 000) EARTHLINGS COFFEE WORKSHOP Coffee shop, roaster, academy Lot 45, Grd Flr, No. 1, CityONE Megamall, Jln Song EAST COURT CHICKEN RICE 867 Jln Club SAman (6083 326 818) EDEN EVERISE Wisma Nation Horizon, Block C, Kuching (6016 888 4522) ESCOBAR SF3 Damai Cenral Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching (6014 288 1160) FAC BRAVO RESTAURANT 7778 Jln Sultan Iskandar, Bintulu (6086 316 920)

KIM BAY HK MACAU RESTAURANT Boulevard Shopping Mall Jln Datuk Tawi, Kuching (6082 239 308) KOREANA RESTAURANT 10002 Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6082 575 072) KUCHING NOODLE PORRIDGE HOUSE 115-1 Wisma Saberkas, Kuching (6082 426 005) L.L. BANANA LEAF 7G Lorong Rubber 1 Jln Rubber, Kuching (6082 239 404) LI GARDEN RESTAURANT Hock Lee Centre, Kuching (6082 340 785) LIM HOCK ANN 96 1 Jln Kg Kuntal, Kuching (6082 846 533) LOK THIAN RESTAURANT 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 3313 310)

FARLEY RESTAURANT 1721 Jln Salim, Sibu (6019 816 3052)

LU LAI VEGETARIAN 3641, Lrg 2 Off Jln Rock, Kuching (6082 242 863)

FEAST & FURIOUS CAFÉ 244, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman (6016 2620916)

LUCKY RESTAURANT 65C G Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 562)

FISHERMAN RESTAURANT 4 Jln Chew Geok Lin, Sibu (6084 316 888)

LYN’S THANDOORI RESTAURANT 7 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 234 934)

FRATINI’S RESTAURANT 2512 Jln Boulevard 3, Miri (6085 431 115) FU LAI SIANG RESTAURANT 108 Jln Pekan Bt Niah, Bt Niah (6085 737 168) GOLDEN CITY RESTAURANT 87, Jln Ong Chu Seng, Saratok (6083 436 139) HIGHLANDS SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 298 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 318 828) HOCK CHU LEU RESTAURANT 28 Jln Tukang Besi, Sibu (6084 316 524) IMPERIAL RESTAURANT Grd Floor, Imperial Hotel, Lot 827, Jalan Pos 98000 MIRI (6085 431 888) IMPERIAL DUCK RESTAURANT 313 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 336 313) JAMES BROOKE BISTRO & CAFÉ Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman 93100 Kuching (6082 412 210) JUBILEE RESTAURANT 49G Jln India, Kuching (6082 245 626) KHAN’S BILAL RESTAURANT 229-G Jln Maju, Miri (6085 418 440)

MENAWAN RESTAURANT Grd Floor, Imperial Palace HotelLot 1120 Blk 7 Jalan Sehati MCLD 98000 MIRI (6085 432 299) MANGO TREE RESTAURANT Jalan Crookshank, Kuching (6082 235 353) MAP RESTAURANT Bang Terminal, Kuching (6082 459 087) MARCO POLO RESTAURANT 116A BDA Shahida, Bintulu (6086 332 458) MEDAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 56, Jln Mdn Setiaraja, Mukah (6084 874 145) MERRY RESTAURANT 187 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 240 118) METRO CAFÉ 781 Jln Bangkita, Limbang (6085 215 488) MIN HUA (89) RESTAURANT G 13 Jln Bintang Utara, Bintangor (6084 693 240) MOMOYAMA Wisma Phoenix, Kuching (6082 420 561)

MY LITTLE KITCHEN 56, Upper China Street, D’tea Pavilion, Friendship Park, Jln Song, Kuching (6016 858 6669) NAM HOI RESTAURANT 110 Jln Penrissen Bt 7, Kuching (6082 612 379) ORION TROPICAL Jln Merpati, Miri (6085 417 417) PADUNGAN RESTAURANT 268 Jln Tunku Abd Rahman, Kuching (6082 233 417) PATZ DAYAK HOME COOK SPECIAL New Full 3 Foodcourt, Stutong (next to Giant Hypermart, Tabuan Jaya) (6016 864 4763) PIN PIN CAFÉ 18 Jln Krokong Bau (6082 763 486) PINANG NYONYA 18, Grd Flr, 2nd Precinct, Jln Setia Raja 93450, Kuching ( 6082 459 162) POPULAR CORNER SEAFOODS RESTAURANT Bda Shahida Commercial Centre, Bintulu (6086 319 688) PORTICO 17A Lorong Park Lane, Kuching (6019 819 8046)

SHABU-KUN RESTAURANT 253 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 317 311)

TEO SEAFOOD 787 Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching (6082 846 532)

SHERATON RESTAURANT 37 Psn Brooke, Sibu (6084 336 341)

THE BANQUET 4560 Jln Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching (6082 451 414)

SIN LUNG SHENG FU TIAO QIANG RESTAURANT 10788 Jln Simpang Tiga, Kuching (6082 231 260) SIN SOON CHIN RESTAURANT 2415 Jln Boulevard 2, Miri (6012 808 5456)

THE DYAK RESTAURANT Sublot 29, Grd Flr, Panovel Commercial Complex, Jln Simpang Tiga, 93300, Kuching (6016 868 0071)

SRI MENANTI COFFEE HOUSE RESTAURANT 15 Lrg Pahlawan 7b, Sibu (6084 218 196)

THE JUNK Western fare 80, Jln Wayang, 93000, Kuching (6082 259 450)

SURABAYA RESTAURANT 288 Jln Bendahara, Miri (6085 411 239)

TIAN XIAN RELISH RESTAURANT 313 Jln Melaka Raya, MC (606 288 1120)

SUSHI KIN The Spring, Kuching (6082 245 355) SUSHI TIE-TTS Wisma Sanyan, Sibu (6084 342 875) TEN-ICHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 331 310)

TONG LOK RESTAURANT 1367 Jln Buangsiol, Limbang (6085 216 188)

TOPSPOT BUKIT MATA SEAFOOD CENTRE Jln Padungan, Bukit Mata, Kuching (6019 889 9838) TRIBAL STOVE Blk H Jln Borneo Taman Sri, Kuching (6082 234 873) WANG HIN RESTAURANT 1 Soon Hup Comm Complex, Miri (6085 413 129) WARUNG NASI KUNING Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6016 809 1286) WEI THIAN RESTAURANT Golden Square, Siburan (6082 862 968) XIN TSUI SIANG KITCHEN Wisma Nation Horizon Blk D, Kuching (6082 414 616) YUN YAN RESTAURANT Stutong Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 366 115) ZHUN SAN YEN VEGETARIAN FOOD Lot 165 Jln Chan Ann, Kuching (6082 230 068)

TONG XIN COURT RESTAURANT 151 Lrg Datuk Abang Abd Rahim 5a, Kuching (6082 482 252)

POT & GRILL RESTAURANT 9 Jln Tun Abd Rahman Yaakub, Kuching (6082 425 525) REJANG RESTAURANT 6 Lrg Lanang 2 Sibu (6016 860 2636) ROBATA YAKI 493 Jln Rambutan, Kuching (6082 235 372) ROCK ROAD SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1230 Jln Rock Bt 2½ , Kuching (6082 241 575) SAJIAN WARISAN RESTAURANT 537 Jln Gartak, Miri (6085 429 911) SALLEH’S CORNER CAFÉ RPR Phase 2 Shoplot Jln Astana Petra Jaya, Kuching (6012 807 8033) SEA VIEW RESTAURANT G Pusat Tmn SDagang, Bintulu (6086 334 929) SEVENTY2 RESTAURANT 894 Jln Permaisuri, Miri (6085 366 318)

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biG essentials

BRUNEI BANKS Banks in Brunei Darussalam are usually open Mondays to Fridays, 9am - 4pm and on Saturdays, 9am 11am. Some banks have branches with later closing times. Islamic banks follow the same operation hours except on Fridays when they are closed for prayers between 11am - 2.30pm.

Cash withdrawals and deposits can be made from Automated Teller Machines (ATM) that can be found in various shopping complexes and bank branches all over the country. ATM cards affiliated with the international Plus or Cirrus systems are accepted at most ATMs.

CREDIT CARDS VISA and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards in hotels, restaurants and major shopping complexes.

Some establishments accept American Express.

$

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Money Changer Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, hotels, various shopping complexes and banks. To cash or exchange travelers cheques, visit major international banks in the capital.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

TELECOMMUNICATIONS FRIDAY PRAYER TIME

All retail, food and beverage outlets and business offices are closed between 12 noon and 2pm on Fridays to observe the Friday prayer time for Muslims.

Islamic Etiquette Although Islam is the state religion of Brunei Darussalam, it is also a country that prides itself on the diversity of its people – including their religions. Visitors are welcome to mosques, provided some etiquette is followed. In general, proper attire is required; women are required to cover their head, shoulders, and knees.

Some mosques will provide simple robes and shawls to meet these standards. Shoes are to be removed before entering a mosque. Please do not pass in front of people in prayer, and do not touch the Al-Quran. Please ask for permission before taking photographs – particularly inside!

Mosques are usually closed on Thursday and Friday, and during prayer times – your hotel, tour guide, or Muslim locals can help you determine a good time to visit.

Most public phones operate on prepaid calling cards which can be obtained in all major shopping areas and retail stores.

Mobile prepaid SIM cards are also available for purchase at DST Communications Sdn Bhd (DST Com) and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) service counters as well as the respective authorised vendors’ stores.

Taxis

TOURIST

INFORMATION

CENTRE

Located at the Art Gallery at the Royal Wharf. Visitors can obtain information about Brunei and related pamphlets and maps free from here during working hours (Mon-Thurs & Sat from 9am-12.15pm & 1.30pm4.30pm).

BUSES There are six bus routes servicing the BSB area. Normal operating hours are from 6am-8pm. Bus fares start from B$1.00. Buses heading to other towns in Brunei such as Tutong, Kuala Belait and Seria depart from the bus terminal located at the multistorey carpark on Jalan Cator in BSB.

WATER

Smoking Smoking is prohibited in both air-conditioned and non airconditioned areas in Brunei Darussalam. Smoking is banned in specific places, including government buildings, hospitals, recreational and educational centres, public transport and restaurants. Offenders could be fined.

Metered taxis can be found at the airport, hotels, shopping centres, and the central bus station in Bandar Seri Begawan. Alternatively, grab a Dart Taxi using the ‘Dart’ app - a taxi booking application that can be downloaded at the App Store and Google Play.

TAXIS Unique to Brunei, the water taxi is the most common means of transportation in Kampong Ayer.

You can hail a water taxi from the numerous jetties along the banks of Brunei River. Fares are negotiable but usually a standard ride costs about B$1.00. Regular boat services to Temburong operate between 6am-4.30pm daily and a one way trip costs B$7.00.

FERRY SERVICES Passenger ferry services to the Malaysian island of Labuan operate from 7am to 4pm and departs from the Serasa Terminal in Muara town. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

USEFUL local Malay words Good morning Good afternoon Goodnight Thank you You’re welcome What is your name?

My name is …

Excuse me Yes No How much?

Where is the toilet?

I want to go to …

Turn right Turn left

Selamat pagi

Jalan terus

Selamat petang

Lapangan Terbang

Go straight Airport Selamat malam Town Terima kasih Home Sama-sama Shops Siapa nama awda? Eat Nama saya …

Drink Maafkan saya Walk Ya Chicken Tidak Beef Berapa?

Seafood Di mana tandas?

Vegetables Saya mahu pergi ke... Rice Belok ke kanan 1, 2, 3...

Bandar Rumah Kedai Makan Minum Jalan-jalan Ayam Daging Makanan laut Sayur-sayuran Nasi Satu, Dua, Tiga...

Belok ke kiri

NUMBERS TO NOTE EMERGENCY Police 993 Fire 995 Ambulance 991 Directory enquiries 113 Darussalam Hotline 123 FLIGHT INFORMATION General 2331747 AIRLINES Royal Brunei Airlines 2212222, 2240500 Air Asia 2333045 Singapore Airlines 2244901/2/3/4 Cebu Pacific Air 2222666, 2227965, 2239888

"Tension" the total game changer, above and beyond the "Cushion" Tension pact is the ultimate breakthrough pact type foundation that includes all the benets of a traditional foundation as well as a fuss free radiant glow cushion.

With a sole compact product, experience easier and simpler makeup process and touch up from beginning to end.

MEDICAL SERVICES RIPAS Hospital 2242424 Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) 2611433 Gleneagles JPMC 2611212 Tutong Hospital 4221336 Ext 991 Kuala Belait Hospital 3332366 Ext 991 Temburong Hospital 5221526 Ext 127 Unit1.45B, First Floor, The Mall, Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam BE3519

Tel: +673 245 7700 www.missha.net

biG essentials

Tourist Information Centre

SABAH Banks

Banks open from 9am to 4pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.

CREDIT CARDS Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards at hotels, restaurants and major shopping malls. Some establishments do accept American Express.

$

Money Changer

Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, shopping malls, hotels and major banks.

SARAWAK Banks

Banks open from 9.30am to 3pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.

CREDIT CARDS Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards at hotels, restaurants and major shopping malls. Some establishments do accept American Express.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Buses

There are three main bus terminals that operate regular services. The terminal along Jalan Tun Razak provides services within the city and its outskirts. For destinations south of the city (Papar, Beaufort, Tenom, Tambunan, Keningau), use the terminal near Padang Merdeka.

For any other destinations north of the city and all the way to the east coast towns of Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu and Semporna, you have to take a bus to the Kota Kinabalu North Bus Terminal in Inanam and from there proceed to your destination of choice. Kinabalu Park is located en route from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan.

AIR TRAVEL

Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is the second busiest airport in Malaysia and is the main terminal for Malaysia Airlines, MASWings, Firefly, Royal Brunei Airlines, Dragonair, Silkair and Asiana Airlines.

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A free city-tram service is available for sightseeing around Kuching with pick up points at designated hotels. A daily bus service between Kuching and the airport operates from 6am-7pm and takes 40 minutes. The main intercity bus terminal is at Penrissen Bus Terminal southeast of Kuching. Ask Tourism Information Centres for bus timetables; a ‘green bus’ in the Kuching area goes to Santubong (SCV).

AIR TRAVEL

Kuching International Airport services airlines to destinations within Malaysia and overseas via Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia, Firefly, Tiger Airways, Royal Brunei, Silk Air and Batavia Air (Pontianak, Kalimantan).

A network of services using smaller aircrafts provides access to remote destinations within Sarawak such as Bario, Mulu and Ba Kelalan.

Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, shopping malls, hotels and major banks. Some money changers may not accept foreign currency in small denomination or notes with a date or serial number that they don’t approve of.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Taxis

Taxis are available at the airport terminal and cost about RM30.00 to get to the city.

The journey takes between 10-15 minutes. Within the city, taxi stations are located next to major shopping malls and hotels. Long distance taxi services can be found next to Padang Merdeka.

Buses

Money Changer

$

It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards. Prepaid calling cards are also widely available by authorized dealers at shopping malls. Most major hotels have WIFI facility either in their guest rooms or public areas. An increasing number of restaurants now have WIFI zones too.

Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards.

Prepaid calling cards are also widely available by authorized dealers at shopping malls.

Most major hotels have WIFI facility either in their guest rooms or public areas.

An increasing number of restaurants now have WIFI zones too. Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.

Sabah Tourism Board Jalan Gaya Tel: (6088) 212 121 Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sinsuran Complex Tel: (6088) 232 121 Tourism Malaysia (Sabah) Api Api Centre Tel: (6088) 211 732 Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 1 Tel: (6088) 413 359 Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 2 Tel: (6088) 447 075

Ferry Services Jesselton Point is the main terminal for boats to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands and to Labuan Island. If you wish to drive to Labuan, use the ferry terminal at Menumbok south of the city where car ferries are available.

Express Boats and Ferry Services A boat service locally known as tambang is available for the short trip across Kuching River to the riverside villages on the other side and along the river for sightseeing. Fast and comfortable express boats connect coastal towns (Kuching, Sibu, Kapit) and villages on the major rivers in Sarawak.

The Express Ferry Terminal in Kuching offers trips to Sibu and onwards to Kapit for upriver journeys. Take a bus from Sibu to Miri for ferries to Brunei and onwards to Labuan island and Kota Kinabalu.

Taxis

Taxi fare from Kuching Tourist airport to the city cost about Information Centre RM22.00 per way. Taxies are easily found at large hotels, or at taxi stands in all the major towns in Sarawak. Taxis don’t use meters so always negotiate the fare before getting into a cab!

Kuching Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6082) 410 944/2 Miri Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6085) 434 181 Sibu Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6084) 340 980

GP ICT URE. BI

HE GET

THE BIG PICTU

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P I C K U P A C O P Y O F B I G AT T H E B R U N E I I N T E R N AT I O N A L A I R P O R T, YOUR NEAREST CBTL BRANCH OR CAFES NEAR YOU Call 2331031 or email contact@chmpmedia.com borneoinsidersguide.com

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Hua Ho Manggis Mall

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National Stadium

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Dewan Bahasa (Library)

Taman Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien

DST Exclusive Dealers DST Branch

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Jalan Roberts

DST Yayasan Branch

Jalan Pretty

Yayasan SHHB Complex

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Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery

Takaful IBB Building

10 mins

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Hotel Police Station

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Place of Interest

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Police Headquarters

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Grand City Hotel

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DST Exclusive Dealers

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Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

SEE GADONG MAP

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SUNGAI BRUNEI

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Tourist Information Centre

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RIPAS Hospital

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Prime Minister Office Building

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Brunei Arts & Handicraft Centre Kampong Ayer

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Royal Brunei Airlines Golf Club

Restaurant Hotel

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Mabohai Shopping Complex

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Bank/ ATM/ Money Changer

Edinburgh Palace

Men teri Besa r

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Times Square Hotel

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Tasek Lama Recreational Park

Orchid Garden Hotel

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Rizqun International Hotel

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- DST Incomm SDN BHD - I-MOBI Sdn Bhd - Ninenine Mobile And Services - Deejay Enterprise

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Block F

Fish Market (Gadong Wet Market)

AIT

Bangunan H Tahir A

Simpang 37

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Gadong Night Market (Pasar Pelbagai Barangan Gadong)

The Centrepoint Jaya Hotel Hypermart

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BIBD Bank

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Tian & Chuan Building

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Kampung Kiulap

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IGS College

ngan Build Setia Kena

Hotel

GAI

Seri Kiulap Complex

Shop

Restaurant

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Kiulap Plaza Hotel

Wisma Pengiran Hj Apong

Bank/ ATM/ Money Changer

SUN

Seri Qlap Mall

Yong Clinic

lap

Regent Square

IT

Shakirin Co

Post Office

Fitness Zone

GLA

mersial Kiu n Ko Jala

Setia Kenangan 2 Complex

Palm Garden Hotel

MEN

Linknet Solution Sdn Bhd

Bangunan Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yusof

Urairah Complex Post Office

Lee Clinic

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53

ROAD

biG screen

What is it about a road trip? Basically it’s just a long distance journey on the road, and it’s not always the destination that makes it worthwhile; it’s the detours, shenanigans and company that usually determine the make or break factor for any good road trip.

In this issue of BiG, at a time when people are most decidedly choosing not to travel, we decide to focus on road trip movies, because if we can’t do it, then we’re all about watching it. From a famous rock band sorting through issues on tour to a dysfunctional family just doing their best to get a little girl to her pageant, and from a dystopian future where insanity runs amok in armoured vehicles to a group of survivors trying to survive through a zombie wasteland, we’ve got all manners of road trips on screen for you.

Almost Famous (2000) Directed by Cameron Crowe Starring Patrick Fugit, Kate Hudson and Billy Crudup DESTINATION A bunch of concert stops for Stillwater’s nationwide tour, where a teenaged William Miller tags along in a job profiling the band for Rolling Stone While this movie mostly features the raucous goings-on when on the road for a concert tour with a headlining rock band, this is a coming-of-age tale and told in the perspective of a fifteen-year old whose writing talents lands him a job covering Stillwater while on tour. The movie focuses on his relationship with the band, most notably the star guitarist, and the groupies that follow them on their tour, most notably one Penny Lane.

This movie is about the power of music and the price you pay for fame, and the lost souls that become ensnared in it.

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Easy Rider (1969) Directed by Dennis Hopper Starring Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper and Jack Nicholson DESTINATION Mardi Gras in New Orleans via two motorcycles Basically about two hippies freewheeling their way to New Orleans across America with the money they earned from smuggling drugs, this is by no means an easy movie to watch.

It’s a sometimes uncomfortable and inyour-face movie, and as the two bikers take their cross-country journey, this iconic movie focuses on the altered American landscape, and covers issues about drugs, the generational divide, and the hippie life.

Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006) Directed by Larry Charles Starring Sacha Baron Cohen, Ken Davitian and Luenell DESTINATION To Pamela Anderson, who’s in California Borat is a TV reporter from Kazakhstan, and he’s sent to America to make a documentary about their society and culture. He is taking a course in New York when he stumbles upon Baywatch on television, falls in love with Pamela Anderson, and decides to go on a quest to California to make her his wife. His journey takes him through some real situations with the Americans that he meets along the way, and predictably enough, laugh out loud hilarity ensues.

Zombieland (2009) Directed by Ruben Fleischer Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone and Woody Harrelson DESTINATION The Pacific Playland amusement park in Los Angeles So it’s the apocalypse, zombies are eating humans, and things are looking pretty dire. Loners and bitter alliances are formed in the name of survival, and this is the reason why four people team up to travel across a dystopian landscape to the Pacific Playland amusement park in Los Angeles, which is reputed to be free of zombies. Along the way, the ragtag group begin to realize that without human connection, surviving doesn’t necessarily mean living,

Photo: Unsplash

TRIPPIN’ Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) Directed by George Miller Starring Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron and Nicholas Hoult DESTINATION “The green place” Another dystopian landscape but this time across a desert wasteland, and Max Rockatansky has just escaped the clutches of the evil Immortan Joe. Unfortunately, he’s got a bunch of crazies on his tail, and they’re in armoured vehicles that should only exist in your nightmares. But he and the ass-kicking Furiosa form a shaky truce to protect the women she saved from Immortan Joe, and they journey through the barren landscape trying to outrun the crazies in the hopes of finding a place to live in peace.

Thelma & Louise (1991) Directed by Ridley Scott Starring Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis and Harvey Keitel DESTINATION Mexico This film was all about feminism before anyone had much of an idea about it, and it rings even more strongly today in this #MeToo era than it did back then.

Back then, this movie was about two women deciding to take a break from their admittedly crappy lives to take a road trip, which then turns into a manhunt after Louise shoots a man who tried to rape Thelma. As they drive their way across America dodging the cops, the film explores the roles of women in society, friendships and self-reliance, and finishes in a real humdinger of an ending. Also, that might or might not be Brad Pitt’s actual posterior, but the jury’s still out on that one.

Little Miss Sunshine (2006) Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris Starring Steve Carrell, Toni Collette and Greg Kinnear DESTINATION The Little Miss Sunshine child beauty pageant in California The Hoover family is just as dysfunctional as your own, if not more so, but they strap their issues together and put aside their differences so they can pile up in a van to travel from New Mexico to California, to achieve the dreams of young and idealistic Olive Hoover who just wants to compete in a child beauty pageant.

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983) Directed by Harold Ramis Starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo and Imogene Coca DESTINATION Walley World This is Chevy Chase’s first role as the overly ambitious father Carl W. Griswold, who just wants to take his family to Walley World for a family vacation. But as it will always go with the Griswolds, things don’t go quite as planned, and mishaps, accidents, and a mysterious blonde in a red Ferrari, all become insurmountable odds for the Griswold family who are just trying to get to their theme park destination.

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55

biG screen

MOVIES TO LOOK OUT FOR THIS QUARTER JUN 5

APR

MAY

ANTEBELLUM

THE WOMAN IN THE WINDOW

24

WONDER WOMAN 1984

15

Starring Janelle Monáe, Kiersey Clemons and Jena Malone

Starring Gal Gadot, Pedro Pascal and Chris Pine

Veronica is a successful author who suddenly finds herself in alternate realities. It’s a vague synopsis, but what did you expect from the producers of Get Out and Us? But what we can most definitely expect is another mindbending and spooky thriller that will sit in our minds for days after we watch it.

Speaking of ass-kicking females, Wonder Woman returns to the screen and our hearts but this time, she’s living in the retro 80’s. The immortal Amazon princess warrior demigoddess superhero faces off against the Soviet Union this time around, and a new formidable opponent: the Cheetah, a villainess with superhuman strength and agility.

Starring Amy Adams, Gary Oldman and Julianne Moore

A psychological thriller about Dr Anna Fox, an agoraphobic who spies on her neighbours and witnesses a violent crime in the house of a pictureperfect family nearby.

MAY APR

APR

3

29

MAY

10

1

ARTEMIS FOWL

Starring Ferdia Shaw, Judi Dench and Josh Gad

THE NEW MUTANTS

NO TIME TO DIE

The New Mutants tells the story of five young mutants kept in a facility against their will, and is supposed to feature Marvel favourites Magik and Wolfsbane.

But don’t expect your typical Marvel fare with this one – this will be more of a horror movie than a heroic one.

Daniel Craig returns as the globe-trotting spy, this time around forced out of retirement to rescue a kidnapped scientist, This may be the 25th installment of the famous film franchise but with Cary Fukunaga in the director’s chair, we’re very much looking forward to this one.

Starring Anya-Taylor Joy, Maisie Williams and Charlie Heaton

Starring Daniel Craig, Ralph Fiennes and Rami Malek

TOP GUN: MAVERICK

JUN 26

Starring Tom Cruise, Val Kilmer and Miles Teller

Tom Cruise returns as Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell who has spent over thirty years as one of the Navy’s top aviators.

He’s still the daredevil he’s always been and avoiding advancement prospects that would literally ground him.

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

This seems to be the time of year for the release of delayed movies, and this Kenneth Branagh helmed movie based on the popular science fantasy series by Eoin Colfer is finally getting some screen time after being delayed for a year. The movie follows the titular character, a 12-year old criminal mastermind, who finds himself in an epic battle against powerful fairies in his search for his missing father.

We’re sure some drama and deathdefying stunts will ensue, and hopefully Tom Cruise will not indulge in some topless beach volleyball this time around, but we’re still expecting a great time with this at the theaters.

BLACK WIDOW

Starring Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh and David Harbour

We love an ass-kicking female, and there’s no female who kicks quite so much ass as Black Widow. Scarlett Johansson returns as the titular character in a long awaited solo movie about how international spy and assassin Natasha Romanoff becomes Black Widow - the superhero and soon after core member of the Avengers.

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