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Inside! Jan // Mar 2019

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Editor’s Note Hello 2019! At BiG, we believe in supporting our local communities and talents. We do what little we can by providing them with a platform in our humble little magazine and hope that it plays a part in increasing awareness to our readers. It seems perfect then that we begin the year focused on art, because we know there are plenty of talented artists in Borneo and selfless people who work hard to get these talents known, though the limited platforms they have to promote their art is not nearly as big as their talents. We talk about performing arts in Sabah – an industry still at its infancy but powering through with their skilled performers. We highlight artists you should know of in Sarawak. In Brunei, we focus on Sandy Tan, a woman who has taken audiovisual art to Brunei and exhibits it with 100% passion and heart. We also sit down with Osveanne Nadiah Osman and talk about how culture should influence fine arts, visit the wonderfully quirky workroom of hand-lettering genius Artsy Craftsy, and talk about making art your business with The Birdhouse. There is also a wonderful niche of art photographers in the sultanate and we shine a light on their skills. And for those who love art, we give you tips on how to start your own art collection (without spending a ton of money!) Our intrepid Assistant Editor Sheyenne was fortunate enough to go on a week-long whirlwind trip around Taipei where she visited landmarks, places of interest, and ate vegetarian and halal food. We are very thankful to our hosts, the Taiwan Tourism Board from Malaysia, for inviting us on this amazing trip. And so it’s 2019, which means new challenges, new news, new fake news, and a lot of the old. We hope you spend this year supporting all the things that are important to you, your country and your community, as we at BiG strive to do.

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

CHMP MEDIA Editor-At-Large

Wan Zainal Shazali Editor

Intan Abu Daniel Assistant Editor

Sheyenne Siah Designer

Novri Rinaldi Assistant Designer

Aqilah Hj Abu Bakar Editorial

Pamela Fletcher Irene Chan Brunei | biG

biG stands for Borneo Insider’s Guide. It is a quarterly magazine that aims to entertain and share with readers the best there is to offer on lifestyle and travel in enigmatic Borneo and beyond. It is distributed at travel fairs, international events and Brunei high commissions abroad. biG is available at the arrival hall of Brunei International Airport, Brunei Tourism offices, Royal Brunei Airlines business class, all hotels, popular food and beverage outlets and foreign missions in Brunei. biG has a distribution network in the neighbouring states through the Sabah and Sarawak Tourism Boards as well as via prominent hotels in the respective capitals. Besides being Brunei’s very own publication for bridging its residents with a myriad of commercial and cultural offerings within the country, each issue also serves as the world’s window into the rich tapestry of Borneo’s life and culture. www.borneoinsidersguide.com 4

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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.

events

Jan 26-27

TO look

out FOR

Borneo Yoga Festival Sabah

this quarter

Feb 1 May 10

Sabah International Lantern and Folk Arts Festival 2019 Sabah Be dazzled by a colourful display of about 3,000 lanterns lighting up Tanjung Aru Beach at the inaugural Sabah International Lantern and Folk Arts Festival. The festival will take place along a 3km stretch from Prince Phillip Park to Tanjung Aru First Beach, and will be showcasing flora and fauna as well as Chinese culture. The festival will also feature food stalls and performances.

Harness your inner chi with like-minded yoga enthusiasts at the Borneo Yoga Festival, the second event after the huge success of the first festival last year. Hosted by Gokul Yoga, the event invites all yoga practitioners, teachers and enthusiasts to participate.

Feb 5

Feb 23

Brunei, Sabah, Sarawak

Brunei

Lunar New Year

The Chinese community go all out during this time of the year as auspicious emblems in blazing red symbolizing prosperity, good energy and happiness is seen everywhere. Bright red decorations, lion and dragon dances and ang paos amidst feasting and cheerful bonding are anticipated over this two-week period.

National Day

The streets of Bandar Seri Begawan come alive with the sound of good cheer all around as patriotic citizens and visitors gather to celebrate the joyous occasion of Brunei’s 35th National Day and to watch the grand parade. The fireworks at night are also not a sight to be missed.

Feb 16

Kuching Heritage Race Sarawak

Despite its name, the Kuching Heritage Race is more than just a race. It’s an event where “fun meets nature and culture” inviting participants to immerse themselves in the local heritage in the best way possible. And the best thing is proceeds from the race go to local charities! Win!

Mar 2-3

Borneo Headhunters Hat 2019 Ultimate Tournament

Mar 17 I love Sarawak 2019 Sarawak United together in their love for their country, the city run advocating #CintaNegeriSaya brings together patriotic runners at the Pustaka Negeri Sarawak at Petra Jaya where they can share the love with likeminded people.

Sabah Since 2010, the highly-anticipated ultimate frisbee tournament has been challenging players to stake their claim to the championship— and this year is no exception. Taking place on Sukma Fields in March, witness seasoned and passionate players come together as they uphold the integrity and spirit of the game even in fierce battle.

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

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Contents biG scoop Presenting our scoop on things to love and desire biG feature Stories so unique it can only be from Borneo biG focus See who and what we’re pointing our cameras at biG talk We chat with personalities and discover

their specialities biG getaway Near or far, we go on holiday for your benefit

biG essentials Helpful tips for visitors arriving on our shores

biG appetite We try the food so you can follow suit

biG navigator Find your bearings with our walking maps

biG listings Where to eat, drink and chill? Come with us and see

biG screen See what’s playing in the cinemas around town

BiG scoop

Heavenly Scents

Workshop 101 Interested in learning the art of pattern making and embroidery? Workshop101.bn has you covered. Created by two stay-athome moms, Workshop101.bn has been conducting classes on hand embroidery for beginners, where students learn about traditional embroidery techniques, its tools and the materials. An excellent way for like-minded people to get together and get their creative

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

juices flowing, these two ladies will be branching out into further types of craft lessons in the near future, which includes candle making and leather making classes. Also expect to see hand embroidery classes for kids and advanced hand embroidery classes available in early 2019. IG: @workshop101.bn

Wander toward Freshco at the ground floor of Times Square Shopping Complex and a symphony of aromas will hit you - an intense, woody smell of Oudh wafting out from Fajr Afiza, an elegant little outfit that sells a variety of oudh-based fragrances. Originating from one of the most expensive woods in the world, oudh-based scents have been dominating the perfume market these past few years and there’s no question why: warm, smoky with sweet notes – there is no other fragrance like it in the world. Fajr Afiza offers a wide selection of mostly locally sourced oudh products ranging from high quality pure oudh oil, perfumes, solid perfumes, to their own in-house blends for aromatherapy. They also sell ingredients for those interested in making their own perfumes, and well-known perfume brands from Dubai. •• Fajr Afiza is located at Ground Floor, Times Square Shopping Complex, Kg Jaya Setia. Keep yourself updated by following them on Instagram (@fajrafizabrunei) or call them for inquiries at 673-7185520.

And what is a skateboard without a deck? This is a piece of wood that connects trucks, wheels and hardware into one transportive unit that enables the user to grind, flip, jump and slide. Brunei has had its share of local skate fashion brands with its growing numbers of homegrown designers, and with the skating industry continuing to make waves in the community, it was only a matter of time before skateboard hardware rolled up the ramps. One of the most prolific local brands in Brunei, skate company Oblimag (The Oblivious Magnificent) has made that move with the release of their new skateboard decks. With its first model only

Getting on Board with Oblimag released last year, the local skating community has already shown its support and these days, it’s not surprising to see a local skateboarder sliding around Brunei on an Oblimag skateboard deck! Here’s hoping this is one positive movement in

the local skate industry that will not slow down. Oblimag skateboard decks are available in four sizes (8 x 31.5, 8 x 32, 8.25 x 32 and 8.125 x 32) and can be found at Uneek Skateshop which is located on the 1st Flr, The Souq, Airport Mall in Kg Jaya Setia.

•• They also provide delivery service, and you can whatsapp them for inquiries at 673-8711214. Follow them on Instagram (@oblimag) for more updates.

biG scoop

A Stylish Twist of Traditional & Modern

Dodgy Paper Paper is so readily available these days that it’s not difficult to believe that most consumers barely give it a second thought. But the art of paper-making has been around for around 2,000 years, and now there’s a different type of paper-making: using recycled materials to make paper, and in turn making them into works of art. Dodgy Paper, if you will. In October last year, we had a sniff of this type of wasteconserving art at the Dodgy Paper Workshop held at The Collective Makerspace and

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

hosted by Roger, an artist based in Melbourne and frequent visitor to Brunei. Sponsored by the Australia High Commission, groups of artists came to learn how to make their own dodgy paper, before displaying their finished art on the venue’s wall, showing us there’s beauty to be seen even in old discarded paper. •• Dodgy Paper is located in Melbourne but ships worldwide. Buy some of his dodgy paper at www.dodgypaper.com and keep updated with Roger’s works of art on his Instagram accounts: @dodgy.paper and @stayingcheative.

Teluk Belanga Begawan is all about the traditional ‘teluk belanga’ style with a modern twist! The idea began when one of the team made his own short-sleeved shirts with just a hint of the classic ‘teluk belanga’ style, and the rest followed suit. But it wasn’t until the end of 2017 after receiving numerous compliments from families and friends about their attire that they began to consider making a business out of it. They launched their first line in February 2018 on Instagram, and they’ve had non-stop orders locally and regionally since. Shirts are made from premium cotton with a variety of textile patterns that include Baroque, Damask, Moroccan Quatrefoil, Paisley, Mosaic, Tartan, their newest hand-painted Javanese inspired Begawan Batik collection, and their best-selling Tropical prints. Shirts are made-to-order, so there’s never any worry about an illfitting Teluk Belanga Begawan shirt! Much like their brand tagline “Classic, Comfortable and Visually Classic”, this is a brand that is in no danger of going out of style. •• #50, Jln 127, RPN Kg Rimba, Brunei Open daily: 9am-9pm (by appointment) Tel: 673-8969690/8788879 IG: @TelukBelanga.BWN FB: Teluk Belanga Begawan

biG scoop

Jamming The Borneo Way “Ropuhan di Tanak Wagu” means “Kitchen of a Young Man” in Kadazandusun and the young man in question is Pison Jaip, a proud born-and-bred Sabahan. Using the magic of social media to share and cultivate his passion for Bornean produce and simple traditional cuisines, Pison hopes to incorporate his ancestors’ “forgotten” ingredients into his followers’ modern-day cooking while forgoing imported goods altogether. He also churns out his own line of delicious traditional jams and spreads. Tuhau jam sandwiches and brown rice tea, anyone? •• FB: @ropuhanditanakwagu IG: @ropuhanditanakwagu

DO THE RIDE THING.

Dart is the easiest way to get around Brunei. Download and book a ride today! dartbrunei | dartbrunei.com All Dart drivers have professional licenses and insurances. Dart is a government regulated taxi hail service.

For further enquiries please contact us at +673 8383278

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG scoop

Hanie Makes Plastic Art

Decouwhat? Decoupage! While decoupaging may still be relatively unknown by some, Dayang Badruniza is doing her part to spread the word on the cut-out art form where patterned papers and fabrics are glued onto an object then varnished and embellished to create a painted look on the finished item. Born from Dayang Badruniza’s love of the craft and her quest to find her true passion in life, Decoupage Villa was founded in Miri to cater to likeminded souls looking for a place to talk shop. Hosting a number of hobby classes as well as a Teacher’s Certification Course for those looking to teach their own classes, learning decoupers of all ages are welcome to attend and decorate their own items with the tools provided. •• Lot 21, 1st Flr, Sublot 3501, Jalan Piasau, Miri, Sarawak Open: 9am-4pm (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) Tel: 6018-2301995 FB: Decoupage Villa Miri IG: @decoupagevilla E: decoupagevilla@gmail.com 12

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Sometimes the best decisions in life are the ones you don’t plan. What began as a crafting experiment for Hanie Mohammed turned into a serious hobby as she explored her newfound love for making shrink plastic art and turned it into an art market business. With eclectic designs as her forte, you can often find cheery foxes, cats and dinosaurs among Hanie’s whimsical inventory of pins, pendants, charms and even earrings. “Each creation is a piece of myself so the possibilities are endless”, she says, and that much is clear from the quirky yet adorably wearable pieces. •• IG: Hanie_makes W: https://www.etsy.com/shop/oniyon

Crafting with Soul What do you give someone who already has everything? Something handmade, of course! And for those of us who aren’t necessarily the craftiest people in the world, there are always people like Vera Pillai to come to the rescue. Introduced to the world of card making and its fancy gizmos when she was 15, making personalised greeting cards has been a steadfast hobby for Vera ever since. Taking her craft craze to new heights (which she documents on her craft blog), Vera Papercrafts was born in Miri where, aside from her smile-inducing cards, she also sells string art, wood art and D.I.Y. Cardmaking Kit Boxes with the intention of spreading joy to anyone who comes across her bubbly art. •• IG: @vera_papercraft W: http://verapapercraft. altervista.org/

biG scoop

Tie It Like a Bohemian Macramé It is a small Sabah based business that was founded by Brenda Okura—a Canadian-turnedSabahan at heart. The designs of Macramé It are all handcrafted using a range of materials from cotton rope to twine and jute which are then knotted into attractive wall hangings and other decorative household items, accessories and even clothing. Macramé is a form of fiber art which reached its peak of popularity in the 1970s when it symbolized the spiritually free Bohemian lifestyle that was deeply inspired by all things natural. Through Macramé It, Brenda hopes to increase awareness amongst Sabahans of this hot and trendy form of art which has recently made a comeback throughout the world. Her accessories, home decorations and custom designs can be ordered through Instagram. •• Tel: 6011-51227166 IG: @macrame.it

Mini Me Founded by Norkarmila Khairul Ariffin, affectionately known as Miela, Bymielacarmiela features a creative range of accessories such as bracelets, earrings, necklaces, brooches and cuff links that are made using LEGO miniature figures. As a lifelong LEGO fan, it was only natural for Miela to be inspired by these endearing figurines in crafting her playful accessories. You can even have yourself crafted into a custom-made LEGO accessory (how cool is that??) Her product range has now expanded to include souvenir items such as key chains, cardholders, fridge magnets, rings, photo frames, greeting cards and bookmarks. Miela is a regular at local artisan markets in and around Sabah but operates her business fully online and receives orders via Facebook and Instagram. •• Bymielacarmiela accessories can be found at AVANUS.ITCC, Lot 1-45, ITCC MALL, 89500 Penampang, Sabah Tel: 6017- 6958205 FB: @bymielacarmiela

Refreshingly Hot Inspired by the ginger beers that are widely popular in New Zealand, a team of four friends came up with their own version of Sabahan ginger beer that is getting some really hot reviews! Uinah Ginger Beer is a specially handcrafted local beverage using only the spiciest gingers found in the rural parts of Sabah such as Tambunan and Ranau. It undergoes a brewing period of about 2 weeks to allow the natural yeast in the ginger skin to make friends with the sugars and other ingredients to create that beautifully mature taste with a delightful zing on the tongue. At just 1% alcohol content, don’t expect much of a buzz from this beer but it sure tastes good on a hot and humid Borneo afternoon! •• Lot No. 11, 1st Flr, Lorong Kompleks BSA, Kompleks BSA, Kota Kinabalu 88450, Sabah Tel: 6010-2937900 FB: Uinah Sabah Ginger Beer

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

advertorial

Singapore Airlines Spreads Its Wings with Non-Stop Flights to New York and Seattle S

ingapore Airlines claimed the crown for world’s longest flight when it launched the world’s longest non-stop commercial flight last October from Singapore to New York, and with this latest milestone in international aviation the national carrier intends to extend its reach further across the US with the launch of its non-stop flights to Los Angeles and its plans to include Seattle in its non-stop routes later on this year.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

In its first non-stop flight from the lion city to the city that never sleeps, passengers went on board the Airbus A350-900ULR (ultra-long-range), of which Singapore Airlines is the world’s first customer. Configured in a two-class layout with 67 Business Class seats and 94 Premium Economy Class seats, passengers travelling to New York will be embarking on a 16,700km, 18 hour and 45 minute journey in comfort and style.

Redefining comfort and luxury for all passengers on board the Airbus A350-900ILR, the airbus boasts features that include higher ceilings, larger windows, extra wide body, lighting designed to reduce jetlag and an overall improved air quality due to optimised cabin altitude and humidity levels. Along with the latest in inflight entertainment, the latest in technology, coupled with Singapore Airlines’ legendary service, passengers can expect to breeze through the journey in absolute comfort. “Singapore Airlines has always taken pride in pushing the boundaries to provide the best possible travel convenience for our customers,

and we are pleased to be leading the way with these new non-stop flights using the latest-technology, ultra-longrange Airbus A350-900ULR,” said Mr Goh Choon Phong, CEO of Singapore Airlines. The seaport city of Seattle will be the fifth US city in its route network and the fourth to be served non-stop from Singapore, and is expected to start flying passengers non-stop in early September 2019. Tickets are available for sale progressively through various distribution channels.

For more information, visit www.singaporeair.com.

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BiG

feature

Sound

Art A chilly darkness engulfs you when you enter the small space of Sound & Canvas studio. The studio is located in Setia Kenangan 2 in Kiulap, a highly populated area that is congested with cars on any given day, something I imagine would have been a strike against the audio-visual space, but the sound of traffic is muted, and once the installation begins, it fails to register at all.

hite drapes hang from the ceiling grazing a white floor, a setup so simple you could never have guessed at the months of preparation it took for music composer Sandy Tan and her visual arts partners based in Singapore, Otherhalf Studio, to prepare this art installation. A good crowd amassed to view the launch of It Was All A Dream, an audiovisual installation that

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

at Sound & Canvas

has been hyped about thanks in no small part to the success of their previous audio-visual installation, OH! Secret Garden from 2017. After a welcoming speech by Sandy Tan and her collaborator, all at once It Was All A Dream begins and the audience is immersed in a ballet of shimmery light and sound. Audio-visual exhibitions are few and far between in the sultanate – it’s a genre of

the art world that hasn’t fully been explored in Brunei yet. But Sound & Canvas founder, music composer and exhibit director Sandy Tan has long been enamored with the idea of merging music with visual art. Sandy was kind enough to sit with us in her studio where we sipped coffee, sat on comfortable beanbags, and talked a little bit about her journey and where audio-visual art exists in Brunei.

From her career in journalism to music composer. “Music was right there from the very start, so it wasn’t unnatural or anything. But obviously I, for one, came from a culture where’s it not natural that you would go into making music as a career. Like anyone else, I thought I should go down the path most travelled. It would be a career in journalism, and I

loved it. Then after I worked for while, I learned what I needed to learn about writing for the industry, and it was then or never that I decided to really make myself practice creating music on my own. It’s still an experiment, it’s still a challenge – anyone in the industry would tell you that. But I’ve been very happy since the first audiovisual exhibit in November 2017, and I was very enamored by people’s warmth and curiosity. It’s what made me still passionate and motivated to do more. And it’s as simple as that.”

creating it, combining it with other things, and creating this kind of sensorial experience.”

About audio-visual arts and the concept behind Sound & Canvas. “While I was practicing the music composition, I knew that I loved something more than songwriting. The more I practiced, the more I was inspired by the visual works. So it was really born out of that, marrying music and visual art for one thing, but also different forms of art or creativity that really started, and inspired the name Sound & Canvas. Really, it’s just my love for sound,

About their latest audiovisual venture, It Was All A Dream. “It Was All A Dream, this title, when you hear about it, it’s such a literal title. And it’s kind of deliberately so, because I wanted to create that experience where you can escape to. But it’s also metaphorical, as in my description, it’s a reflection, it’s kind of like holding up a blurry mirror to one’s past, present and future. So that’s what you say, it felt like a dream.”

About her collaborators, Otherhalf Studio. “It was really like how you would meet your best friend. You just relate and click with each other from the start, and you believe in one another. This was how our collaboration started and have continued to be. We just decided to try our best to create the love that we love creating. The rest is history.”

About the reaction from the audience and how it differs from the last exhibition. “We really wanted it to be different (from OH! Secret Garden), before I announced everything, people who had come to the first show, they were saying, oh is it going to be mirrors again? And I think no, I hope not, because I do want people to understand that the works will always be, should be different, because as an artist or as a creator you want to always challenge people and yourself.” “It Was All A Dream was deliberately more abstract than our first one, there’s no storyline, not even a motif that you can attach your experience to. And it’s important that we don’t imply a specific meaning to the work. People have said, oh I dreamt about my late family member because of what I saw, or that it reminded them of the circle of

Get updates on future art installations and events at Sound & Canvas by following them on: FB: @soundandcanvas IG: @soundncanvas Read more of our conversation with Sandy Tan on our website: www.borneoinsidersguide.com

life, and we had no control over that. But we knew that we wanted to create a work that people can relate to. And so the audience’s reaction became so important because of that. So when they’re in here taking photos, taking videos, or just sitting here being reflective, they’re participating in the work. And so it’s them reacting to the work.” About the local audience. “With the first, last year, that’s why I was so nervous. I thought I was going to do something too out of this world that people would just look at me like I’m weird! Most of them were a young audience who came in, and they were so curious, and that gave me a very clear and interesting glimpse into the fact that even though it’s an infant audience, it’s an audience who has the capacity to understand. Even if they don’t understand it, they have the curiosity. Curiosity is always important in anything we do.” About the challenges of putting out an audio-visual installation that is both completely honest and accessible. “We always say we can’t be too into ourselves. When you go through the process, and this is what I want to express, I’m sure there are people in the world who understand that. Because I’m still human, and the people that come into your space are human, and you must be brave, I learned that you must be brave with what you want to express. And the balance, I just hope that people wouldn’t be scared away. And if they’re scared away, I just have to respect that.” “I don’t put out these sort of works thinking that everyone would receive it warmly. But I just hope that it gives someone, some sort of enlightenment. It’s why we want to create, why we want to express. I just hope, like most people in the industry, we just hope that what we do is meaningful enough to carry on.” Portions of this interview have been edited and condensed for clarity.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG feature

s ’ e f li

e g a a st

Music, song, dance, storytelling and even rituals are much a part of human culture. From the traditional to its contemporary forms, performing comes naturally to Sabahans, and you can see this at almost any festivity particularly the boisterous Harvest Festival when modern music and dance intermingle with beats of traditional gongs, drums and bamboo instruments. The rise of the performing arts industry is still at its infancy, but there have been positive and inspiring developments over the last decade in building up a solid foundation for Sabah’s talented artists. Pamela Fletcher

Creative spark

The Society of Performing Arts Kota Kinabalu (SPArKS) was formed in 2007 to develop raw talents and provide a platform to perform and to gain exposure from local and international acts hosted by the society. The Kota Kinabalu Arts Festival (KKAF) is one of SPArKS’ most significant annual

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

events with theatre, dance, concerts and performance art workshops staged over two months to give audiences a taste of the different genres of performing arts and to appreciate the work of Sabah’s very own performance artists. Susan Bansin, a Theatre for Development consultant and committee member of

SPArKS, while embracing the fact that local performance artists find it easy to adopt outside influences and incorporate them into their own performances, notes the lack of encouragement to develop these new influences. “Full time musicians, for example, are often dictated by venue owners to sing covers of

popular songs which deprive them of the opportunity to explore their creativity and curtail their excitement in performing their own music,” she says, adding that this is just part of challenges they face in carving their niche in the performing arts industry. (Check out http://www.sparks. org.my/ for more info on SPArKS calendar of events.)

biG feature

accolades as a composer and one of Malaysia’s best acoustic guitarists known for his fingerstyle technique. As artistic director of the annual KK Jazz Festival (KKJF) since 2009, Roger has dedicated himself to opening doors for up-and-coming local musicians to perform on the same stage as international jazz performers in a 2-day musical extravaganza. Besides the concert itself, various fringe events such as workshops, band showcases and the Sabah Jazz Talent Search provides an even greater avenue for aspiring jazz singers and musicians to hone their performing skills in front of a live audience. “A lot of people think that performing is just fun but it’s a lot of hard work, too,” says Roger. “Finding and building an audience takes time but if you have the right attitude and expectations, it can be one of the best jobs in the world.” (Find out more about the KK Jazz Festival at https://kkjazzfest.com/)

It takes two to tango

Dancing to a different beat Dance educator and performer Christopher Liew knows the rutted path most performing artists have to take in chasing their dreams. Christopher is artistic director and founder of Synergy Dance Theatre (SDT) - a contemporary dance company that recruits young dancers into a free dance education programme to train and do theatre works, and Borneo Dance Theatre (BDT) - a full time dance company that aims to combine stories and elements of Borneo with contemporary dance. “I think the most common myth is that dance choreography and performance is easy. People here do not have a strong sense about professional

art especially art that does not produce something solid. Thus ticket selling for art performances is very hard work. Artists spend so much time and effort and art production to turn their passion into a profession.” But it takes more than just passion to be a success. “I do think that passion is important but it fades over time,” opines Chris. “The way to keep moving is not only passion but the combination of passion and result. When you have a big vision, discipline is always the challenging part. Living in Sabah as a dance artist is really limited. That’s why I like to keep learning and producing art work that is not only limited to this place in order for me to keep my passion.”

Christopher’s biggest success is the full-length production, The Legend of Kinabalu, a 70-minute long piece about World War II in Sabah. The process of collecting information and interviewing elders who had lived through that turbulent time was an eye-opener for Chris and has inspired him to share stories through dance.

Jazzing up the scene Giving aspiring artists a voice and a means to hone their craft is what SPArKS and other more established local artists are trying to do to develop a more dynamic performance art scene in Sabah. Roger Wang is one of the few Sabah artists who have managed to carve his own niche in the music industry, having received

Performing arts has become more than just entertainment. For artists like Tamar, it has become a way of life and purpose. Dancing since she was five, Tamar has performed in almost everything from musical productions to shows at corporate and public events, dance festivals and weddings. “Dance and performing was never just a hobby for me. Many people would not see dance as a professional career, and dare I say it, is not looked upon with much respect by some,” says Tamar, despite the fact that dance is a specialised field that requires a lot of patience, memory, coordination, and foremost, discipline to excel. “Dance has even been explored for therapy uses just like Argentine tango in some parts of the world. Tango has been found to help patients with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and sufferers of stroke. It’s even being used for couples’ therapy. And this is an area that I hope to explore.” Tamar has been doing more social dancing in the last five years, and her main goal right now is to teach dance again, especially Argentine tango. She has also started teaching and collaborating with others to put up social dance events so that the scene in Kota Kinabalu may grow.

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Artfully yours, Sarawak

Art has always been an integral part of Sarawakian culture and many talented creators have emerged from this Malaysian state. A deep love for the environment is a common theme among local artists, eclectic as their styles might be. Here we highlight some names to watch. Irene Chan

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Nia Latif Narong Daun

9Lives Formed in 2014, 9Lives was originally a collaborative effort between 9 artists for a one-off exhibition. Given the success of that event, a collective was formed, with the purpose of providing a networking platform for artists to reach out to each other and provide them the opportunity to introduce their talents to the public. Today, 9Lives consists of twentyodd members, and has played a pivotal role changing local attitudes towards art by engaging the public through their events. Besides art exhibitions, they have branched out into workshops, with the aim of inspiring people to make their own art. They are currently in the process of creating merchandise for sale to increase the visibility of local artists and provide a means of funding their craft. •• FB: @9livesborneo IG: @9livesborneo

A self-taught silk painter that has gained recognition as one of Sarawak’s most soughtafter artists, Narong Daun’s work has a distinctive personal style that utilises plenty of bold colours and striking motives. Her art has been exhibited in various locations internationally; she also produces wearable items such as scarves, shawls, sarongs and shirt materials. Her work initially had its roots in batik painting, but the constraints of the technique led her to silk painting, which provided a better vehicle for her flowing artistic style. Her designs are grounded deeply in her love for Sarawakian flora and fauna and local culture. Currently, Narong also conducts batik-painting workshops and courses at her little art studio in her home for both children and adults. Her prolific body of work can also be found on: •• FB: @silkpaintingartist IG: @narongdaun292

Nia Latif started out her creative journey as a purely self-taught artist, and art was an outlet for her to escape the stresses of a society obsessed with academic success. Despite those simple beginnings, her work has gained quite a fan following over the years. Much of her earlier artwork drew inspiration from Kuching City, reflecting her fascination towards the local culture. That theme can still be seen in some of her recent merchandise, which feature dolls wearing Sarawakian

Ceres Lau

Ceres Lau has been making waves in the art scene with her delicate, intricately-designed paper sculptures which derives inspiration from nature, as evident in the organic forms her craft takes on. She also cites influences from the artists she has met and learned from. Beginning her career as a graphic designer, Ceres found herself seeking out paper craft over and over again as a form of personal expression. As paper

traditional costumes. However, her recent work is seeing more of a shift towards patterns and movements from the energy expressed into her creations. Nia is actively involved as the co-organiser of Small Town Art Market – by providing a platform for others like her, she has helped grow the local community of artists and makers. Upcoming projects include a collaborative art exhibition in June with WCS Malaysia to raise awareness on environmental sustainability. Nia Latif’s work, behind-the-scenes snaps, as well as updates on upcoming workshops and events can be found on her Instagram (@nialatif).

art had yet to gain much traction in those early days, she had to work multiple jobs to support her passion, but finally made the decision to pursue her passion fulltime in 2017. Ceres is currently planning a solo exhibition in 2019, which will showcase her experimentation with the artistic potential of her chosen medium. Her art and updates of upcoming projects can be found on: •• W: www.cereslau.com IG: @ceres_lau Behance: www.behance.net/ cereslau

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g in an interestin do g in th e m g so ing to out findin d everyth on. It’s ab things you see an ti a rv e s b e of o do with th y is an art otograph und it has little to itt h p , e m “To Erw ve fo place… I’ e them.” – Elliott ordinary se u o y y a w with the

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Some might believe it’s a lifestyle choice these days to own an expensive camera, and you don’t even need a camera to take a photo nowadays, but there’s a strong difference between a person taking a photo and a skilled person taking a photo. Anyone can snap an image, but it takes artistic and technical skill to take one that can translate the photographer’s biased interpretation of a subject to a viewer, and provoke a reaction from it. In this issue of BiG, we highlight a few photographers from Brunei who most certainly deserve a spot on your wall.

Ezra Pilpus Adam Hague

HAFIZUL OTHMAN One of the team that comprises urban street photographers @wallatlarge, Hafizul first started out snapping photos of skateboarding, landscapes and portraits. A skateboarder himself, Hafizul didn’t take photography seriously until he started observing the street style and movements of skateboarders and began looking to other skate photographers for inspiration. Known for his works documenting skate culture in the sultanate, Hafizul said, “I was inspired by the individualism of skateboarders. I sought to educate myself further by looking through old issues of skateboard magazines, to learn from the images taken by photographers I look up to. Those magazines made a great impact on the way I shoot to this day.” •• Check out Hafizul’s work on Instagram (@budjthm and @hafizul.othmn), and you can email him for inquiries at Hafizul.othman@live.com.

Mujahid Johar Vincent Lim

MUJAHID JOHAR Mujahid (Jay) Johar began his love affair with photography on a trip to Switzerland in 2013, where he spent time going around the city, playing around with the composition and began truly appreciating photography as an artform. His passion for portrait photography started when he had his first 50mm lens, and today, Jay is mostly known for his portrait works. His portraits have elements of urban exploration, and he’s also interested in doing black and white street photography, feeling that the monotone colours allows the viewer to focus on the composition and the subject better. “My style puts as much focus on the models as it does on the decaying environment around them,” Jay said about his portrait artwork. “So my compositions tend to play around with the way the models figure into the frame, rather than taking up the whole frame as a close-up.” •• Check out Jay’s work on Instagram (@mujahidjohar for portrait photography; @streetsaheadjay for black and white photography) or visit his website: jaymjohar.com.

EZRA PILPUS Ezra is a self-taught photographer who has been in the industry for nine years. He self-professes himself as ‘not exactly a creative person’, and it was through determination, practice and experimentation that made him the photographer that he is today. Specialising in portraits, outdoors and at locations where lights and shadows are in focus, Ezra likes to play around with background textures, colours, lines and patterns, and blends his subject within those surroundings. “I like shooting portraits because they are more intimate and authentic,” Ezra explained. “As a person, you connect with the photos easily.” •• Check out Ezra’s work on Instagram (@ezrapilpus. co) or visit his website: ezrapilpusphoto.format.com.

Hafizul Othman

VINCENT LIM Vincent started off his craft the modern way: with a smartphone. Enticed at first by landscape images, Vincent began using his camera to document moments that fascinated him. Gifted with a DSLR in his teens (a moment that he will never forget), Vincent has since graduated with a business degree but has decided to follow his passion in pursuing photography and videography for a living. Vincent captures images across the board, from portraits to products and fitness to landscape. “What really fascinates me about photography is the ability to preserve time,” Vincent said. “All I wanted to be is a storyteller, telling stories with my photos in my own perspective.” •• Check out Vincent’s work on Instagram (@vincentfilms) and email him for inquiries at vincentandfilms@gmail.com.

ADAM HAGUE

A man who rarely just ‘takes’ photographs, Adam started off photography as a hobby and as a form of expression of ideas and thoughts. In his early years of photography, Adam took photos of just about anything and everything, but it wasn’t until he came across the works of photographers and artists like Aaron Nace, Brooke Shaden, Joel Robison and Joey Lawrence that he finally found the niche of photography he was truly into. With works that have been exhibited in New York, Korea and Bangkok, Adam mostly takes surreal art photography in digital formats that enables him to manipulate his images in photoshop, which is how he adds that touch of surrealism to his art. “I love control and creating,” Adam said. “I am self-taught, and I learned as much as I could through experimenting, reading magazines and learning from other photographers.” •• Check out Adam’s work on Facebook (Adam Hague PHOTOGRAPHY) or Instagram (@adamhague.photography), and you can email him for inquiries at Adam.snaps@gmail. com or Adam.pscc@gmail.com. Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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Bringing Words to Life I

t’s comforting to know that in this digital world, cursive has made a comeback. While there will always be a place for the sterile impersonal neatness of type font letters, if you’ve been on social media at all for the past few years, you’ll notice that things have turned decidedly handcrafted. Calligraphy came in a blaze of renaissance – and then handlettering followed suit soon after. The reason? Artsy Craftsy owner Aida Idris has an idea, “It’s a great way to express yourself creatively, and like anything else, it really depends on the practitioner and how diligently they can apply themselves.” Artsy Crafty started off the way most handcrafted businesses began in Brunei: through

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Instagram. Having always been a fan of penmanship growing up, Aida came across a lettering video on Instagram in early 2016 and found the cursive style pretty and interesting. It wasn’t long before she started seeking her own resources and practicing the art on her own, and while she initially began as a way to de-stress (those who take part in the art of handlettering would agree that the practice is extremely therapeutic), it didn’t take long before she became completely obsessed. She began conducting smallscale workshops, experimenting on different tools and kits, taking part in local festivals, and started accepting clients. It wasn’t long before people began to take notice of her work, and what started as a hobby soon became

an actual business. Today, Aida has amassed over 46k followers on her Instagram account. Cursive and hand-lettering has certainly made a comeback in Brunei, with other local artists sharing the stage with Artsy Craftsy, but it’s a movement that is being seen the world over. Handlettered decals with personalised messages can be found all over Pinterest and Instagram, and there are even mass-produced artwork made to look hand-lettered. The Internet has amassed hundreds of hand-letterers conducting workshops through videos. Some have even formed international units of hand-lettering friends. “I have befriended so many Lettering artists from all over the world, and some of us have really bonded and become

very close friends. We call ourselves The Lettering Tribe (@theletteringtribe),” Aida tells us. “One of my most memorable projects involved this group: we had all come together to create baby milestone cards for a pregnant friend in Australia, and we were each assigned a month where we created a piece of artwork in our own individual styles, before I collated all the artwork and sent the entire set to her. It was such a unique and creative labour of love.” In finding her people on social media sharing the love of what she does, it isn’t surprising to know that the most rewarding part of Aida’s home-based business is the nonbusiness aspect of it. “It’s amazing to be able to express my personality through colours, quotes and sparkle! Being paid and appreciated for doing something I am already so passionate about is just icing on the cake.” So love what you do, do it well, and what other advice can be given to creatives ready to start their own business? “It’s pretty simple actually,” Aida says. “Work hard, be original, and always be your authentic self.”

Get updates on future art Works by Aida Idris can be found on her Instagram account (@artsycraftsy). She can be reached through her email: artsycraftsybn@gmail.com

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he patriotism came first. Wan Zahidah’s love for her nation is evident in all of the projects that she has done or overseen, which is typically tied to local folklore and culture. From her splendid metal sculpture of Asmara the Rooster presented at the UBD Spectacle 2015, to the pained superhero Asmara, si Pendekar, to Si Sumpit - a ‘pesambah’ presented to his Majesty the Sultan of Brunei during the celebration of Hari Belia. The latter was an unforgettable project directed by Wan Zahidah and a team of nine artists comprising fine art artists, programmers, photographers and videographers. “It’s already in me to merge my arts, my design, with some of our culture,” Wan Zahidah explained in the wonderfully quirky and eclectic space that is the Guerrilla Architects Studio, artists who specialises in graffiti art whom she frequently collaborates with. “Because that’s how we create the stories, for me, that’s how I create the story for my art and my design. My art is more like how to make our culture be part of or be seen by different perspectives. It’s important for me to make our work, things that we are doing, for Brunei. We put a little bit of culture in it, so it’s more about Brunei, it’s more about us, which is our culture and our self-identity for Brunei.” Being an artist and making your art bankable is like balancing two different personalities that are fundamentally at odds with one another. But in this endeavour, Wan Zahidah praises her partnership with Ahmad – the founder of Birdhouse Studio. “We actually didn’t think to open a studio this fast. At first, we just wanted to do things we love and go with the flow.” In this partnership, Ahmad is seen more as the artist. “Ahmad is more into expressing himself through his art. But for me, I want to make it an entrepreneurship. That’s actually my main drive. For me, the challenge is different from just making art. Ahmad can be focused on expressing his art, I’m more focused on selling it.”

Art with an Entrepreneurial Spirit Wan Zahidah’s pragmatic view of her art comes with a dash of entrepreneurism, patriotism and teamwork.

And in taking that first step toward selling art, Wan Zahidah and Ahmad are focusing on another kind of art – one that merges art and functionality. And as of now, that means designing, making, and then selling, furniture. MYG furniture (short for Wan Mayang, her pen name), is another project that Wan Zahidah plans on collaborating with local artisans. “This is specifically more about product design,” she explains. “So we want to collaborate with product designers, artisans, carpenters and metal workers. We come up with ideas, discuss

it with designers, and send it for production, but before that, we need to make prototypes with the help of engineers. It’s a balance of artistic design and functionality.” “We don’t really see local furniture nowadays. We’re trying to study the old furniture in Brunei, and see how we can make our own product with our own style representing Brunei, and sell it overseas. It’s going to be a long way to go, but we’ve already started, so it’s just coming up with policies first before we start collaborating.”

Collaboration is key to Wan Zahidah’s success, and her future success, as she sees it. “If you find someone that’s really good, that’s excellent. But if you find someone who’s not really good but has the same passion, the same drive, why not? I see people who grow around me, and I chase the people who grow.” she says. “If you hire good people, it makes everything work very well.”

Find out more about The Birdhouse Studio by visiting their website: thebirdhousestudio.co

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tips on

With the rise of contemporary art and the emergence of artists and art lovers from every background imaginable, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never been a better time to start collecting. Here are some things to consider when starting your own art collection.

starting your own art collection

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Research

Art collecting is a fun but serious business, so take time to visit art fairs, exhibitions and galleries, and read up on art history and art movements to better understand the works that you plan on purchasing. And it’s always a good idea to keep up with current trends in the art market to help you make smarter buying decisions.

Go on Instagram

The most inexpensive platform in promoting art works, art-collectors barely need to attend galleries to purchase a piece of art these days. Follow some of your favourite artists on Instagram, or keep yourself updated with goings-on at art galleries and art fairs to discover emerging artists or learn about upcoming art events.

Know what you like

There is plenty of decision-making involved in buying art, but if you buy something, buy it because you love looking at it. And be brave – don’t always go for the most available option; if you particularly like a certain style, seek out some good examples of it from emerging artists – it would be more affordable, and possibly better than a well-known artist’s.

Don’t say no to prints

This is a great and affordable way to start off your collection, but do a little research first. If you do buy one, buy one from a small edition of prints, and make sure they’re authenticated and signed.

Quality not quantity

Buying one piece of art can quickly lead to buying another, and then another, and then another, but lets not go crazy here. What you bought just three months ago might not appeal to you now, so do it right and take your time in building that art collection. It’ll be worth it in the long run.

Frame it right

Remember the key rule: simplicity is best. Focus on the artwork, not the frame. It always pays to spend a little extra on the right framing. And once that’s done, find the right wall to mount it, and make sure works on paper are not placed in direct sunlight.

Support your local artists

There are plenty of rising stars in our own local art world, so take the time to visit local art galleries, and check out other works of art from our local artists. There’s great satisfaction to be had in knowing that your contribution is supporting your local art industry.

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Merging Culture with Art O sveanne Nadiah Osman always wanted to be an artist, but her journey from aspiring artist to gallery owner and supporter of local artists began from the jolt of realisation she received upon returning to Brunei from studying in Australia, that there wasn’t yet a place for art at all in the sultanate.

“C

reative industries was supposed to become a big thing in Brunei,” she explained, on a comfortable late afternoon sitting in the white stark comfort of Creative Space, her gallery located in Sengkurong. We

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had arrived just as she was finishing up a meeting with her interns – university art students or inspiring artists who are willing students of her tutelage – going through details of the art exhibition that was housed in her gallery at that time,

WARISAN, the sixth installation of their EMERGE project. “I came back to Brunei, everyone was like, creative industries are happening in Brunei! It’s a hot topic,” she laughed. “I came back and was like, where is it?”

Osveanne might have started off confused just like any university graduate returning to Brunei with fresh eyes, but she has certainly learned a lot about the art world in Brunei in the years since her return. And the first thing that she learned was that there was no career for her in creative industries. Knowing this, and knowing that she wanted to be an artist, she made the decision to open up the platform. She just needed to learn how to do it first. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Industries and no business know-how whatsoever, Osveanne took matters into her own hands and dove headfirst into the corporate field. She learned the ropes by joining an established food and beverage company, and through this onthe-job experience learned about operations, Human Resources and marketing in her two-year stint as a corporate employee. Osveanne started the Creative Space Gallery in April 2016. She partnered with her father, well-known local veteran artist Osman Mohammad who is currently a lecturer at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). And while the gallery might have started on the simple premise that Osveanne wanted to do art and needed a place to do it, it became a lot bigger than that. “I started getting more serious about the gallery when I had more contact with UBD students, and we started the EMERGE internship course to train them up to learn how to run a gallery as a business. And then I started thinking, how else can I spur on the process for creatives in Brunei?” Being exposed to art at a very early age coupled with her studies and experience in Australia armed Osveanne with an awareness of the level of art in other countries that some young local artists hadn’t yet achieved. This resulted in receiving interns for their internship programs who had no idea of the reality and standard of art needed to be competitive overseas. “So I was going to plant seeds in their minds,” she said, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “I

“This is probably how I would measure our success: people are not necessarily subscribing to what we’re doing for entertainment value or the aesthetic value of art, but because it actually is a cause for them to value.”

will start teaching them to raise their standards. Show them a whole new world! And so in the first year, we were pulling people in and telling them to trust us and our vision. So yeah, the first year was hard in getting anybody to listen to you.” Getting exposure initially was just one of the challenges Osveanne had to face with her first exhibition. Handling everything from marketing to cataloguing to administration, by the second half of 2016, she started to get people on board to help out with the logistics. “We’ve seen a growth from our first exhibition to getting an audience of 800 people attend our last exhibition, from very

minimal efforts. So we can see that growth of people seeking us versus us seeking in the start.” Osveanne doesn’t attribute this growth just from hard work. “I would definitely say that it also started because the main people we have been interacting with are the actual artists themselves, and they market themselves. This was basically our strategy: getting them to understand the value of creative industries and fine arts, specifically for this gallery, and what do they want to do about it and how they will develop it. And that is probably how I would measure our success. These people are not necessarily

subscribing to what we’re doing purely for the entertainment value or aesthetic value of art, but because it actually is a cause for them to value.” “EMERGE was the first project we launched when I opened the gallery, and it was this project that made me realise the need to focus on identity and on what is local, because this is where the heart and the intention comes from. Our people don’t have that same level of exposure or the platform to get recognised, and so that’s why we place an emphasis on it, and we want to be able to create a dialogue either between themselves, with

Bruneians, and to the wider international audience.” The gallery champions local artists, particularly the youth, and Osveanne stresses upon her charges on the importance of identifying with your culture for your art, something she feels is lacking. “I’m showcasing art and I’m curating, and I’m reporting, and I’m serving and conserving all the contemporary art I can get my hands on. There are some very good collectors in Brunei who have the foresight to understand what our contemporary artists are producing today is reflective of what we as a nation is going through from many different perspectives, and I really am grateful for the collectors that we have here because they understand that sooner or later, their collection is going to contribute to our history.” “From an art point of view, the fine arts industry in Brunei is undervalued because there’s a missing identity of culture here. We have no proper records of any of our artworks or our predecessors in art. Art is educational in being able to highlight what contemporary culture was like in a certain time, and that’s essentially what art is: a vehicle of contemporary culture.” Which goes back to planting seeds, starting ideas, nurturing creativity, and watching those ideas blossom into a visual piece that tells a keen eye what they are going through, as a Bruneian youth, from different perspectives, regardless of whether it’s from an economic, political, social, reflective or business viewpoint. “We emphasise that they inject culture into their work, because then they can pick out all the discussions that we are all sharing here, that probably on the other side of the world they are sharing as well, and when your art can connect to people form different cultures, that’s when it’s really powerful.”

Website: https:// creativespacebn.wixsite.com/ creativespacebn IG: @creative.space.brunei

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B i G getaway

Sheyenne Siah

When you think ‘Taiwan’, your thoughts probably fall along the lines of ‘good food’, ‘stinky tofu’, ‘good shopping’, ‘bubble tea’ – all of which boils down to ‘a whole lot of fun’. But it wasn’t until we visited the country that we realised that Taiwan is a lot more than just good food and good fun; the entire country represents myriad recreational riches and enlightening delights for all those who come and seek it.

elcomed by the Taiwan Tourism Board for a fiveday run of the city, we set out to discover the zeitgeist that makes Taiwan the calm, golden beacon of all things exciting and enriching. With more halal-certified establishments on the rise and

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thanks to apps such as Halal.TW (allowing you to locate Muslimfriendly restaurants and prayer rooms near you with ease), there were plenty of culinary options available during our sojourn. Whether you’re tucking into a hearty, slow-cooked beef stew

at Tajin Moroccan Cuisine or enjoying a wicked chicken curry at Kunming Islamic Restaurant, Taiwanese kitchens live up to their delicious reputations.

Taipei 101 (DingXian Restaurant) Speaking of being carefree, the observation deck of this famed skyscraper will make you want to impulsively pull a Jack Dawson and yell “I’m king of the world!” This is the magnificent Taipei 101, one of the tallest buildings in existence, and will have you riding in a cosmic-themed

elevator that takes you up 84 floors in a cool 37 seconds. When you’re done feeling like a tiny human, go down to the 86th floor where you’ll find the highly luxurious DingXian Restaurant. Earning its halal certificate in 2016, the restaurant also provides a designated area for prayers as well as their signature degustation set menu made specially with halal ingredients. Frequently playing host to dignitaries and VIPs from all over the globe, it certainly doesn’t hurt that the restaurant’s French interior is a stunning combination

1. The Grand Hotel Taipei 2. Greetings from the

Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village 3. Lihpao Land - we might need a broader image of this 4. Sun Moon Lake 5. Bamboo wishing tubes at Jingtong Old Street 6. Taipei 101

of polished marble floors, crystal chandeliers and vast windows overlooking the city.

Jingtong After immersing ourselves in the bird’s eye view of Taipei, we took to the mountains for a change in scenery where we were met with the sight of an adorable police station in the shape of a sky lantern. We’re talking about Jingtong Old Street, a sleepy little town that runs on dreams and well-wishes. Resembling a scene straight out of a Hayao Miyazaki film, the quaint coal mining town is located just 45 minutes away from Taipei by bus. Jingtong today is known as the place where visitors go to write down their hopeful messages on paper sky lanterns before setting them off into the wind. Take a welcome reprieve from the city, sip freshly brewed Oolong tea, listen as a cool breeze sends bamboo wishing tubes swaying in the wind then hop on the next train out for another adventure.

Lihpao Land

Our first stop in the city of Taichung was Lihpao Land, where everything is bigger, higher and faster. In its reign

of 200 hectares in the Houli District, the resort park is home to the highest Ferris wheel in the country, the five-star Fullon hotel, a massive outlet mall modelled after Italy’s Portofino, a state-ofthe-art go-kart racing park and Taiwan’s biggest double-themed amusement park! We particularly enjoyed the halal dining set meal at the Fullon Hotel’s highly atmospheric J San Izakaya Restaurant which also provides a prayer room. Accessible by taking the Taiwan High Speed Rail train to the Taichung Station and boarding the free shuttle bus from there, take a few days to enjoy all that Lihpao Land has to offer.

Make a day trip out of it! If you’re looking to make a day trip out of the city but don’t know where to begin, we have three words for you: Sun Moon Lake. This glistening, blue body of water is the largest lake in Taiwan, and the reflection of the sun and sky in its waters gives you a perfect postcard-worthy view. Purchase boat tickets at the Ita Thao Visitors Center (which also provides designated Muslim prayer rooms upon request) and climb aboard a speedboat for an unparalleled

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experience of skimming across the famed turquoise stretch surrounded by layers of shadowy mountains. The Sun Moon Lake is just the tip of the Yuchi Town iceberg, making the two-hour bus ride from Taichung to Nantou County worth taking.

Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village After soaking in the tranquil magnificence of the Sun Moon Lake, we took our viewing pleasure to the next level by embarking on an 8-minute cable car ride on The Ropeway to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village (F.A.C.V). As Taiwan’s largest and most interactive outdoor museum, the F.A.C.V is a thriving trove of edutainment. Watching actual tribesmen performing their indigenous traditional dance and song during the aboriginal live shows is an authentic insight into each tribe’s rituals. Also, if you’ve been dying to tick off Sakura-watching from your travel bucket list, Japan’s Cherry Blossom Association has officially recognised and certified the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village as a legitimate sakurasighting venue abroad. Be sure to inhale the sweet scent of the famed blooms in February as you stroll down the park’s cherry blossom avenue. Aside from the Muslim-friendly Maya Restaurant thrillingly nestled in the Mayan Adventure roller coaster in the Amusement Isle, there is also a prayer room in the park to accommodate Muslim visitors.

Houfeng Bikeway In life, we’ll be lucky to experience

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more than a few moments of pure bliss, but breezing by on the Houfeng Bikeway in Fengyuan is a sure candidate for the top of the list. Cycling through the incredibly scenic countryside of the Dajia River Valley with friendly locals waving as you ride by is an extremely peaceful experience and will not prepare you for the breathtaking views that the Hualiang steel bridge presents. Bike rentals are easy to find here, and with Taichung being home to some of the best vegan dining spots around, we rode to the Spring Garden Vegetarian Cuisine Restaurant along Puzi Street for a delectable feast.

7. The Grand Hotel Taipei 8. Houfeng Bikeway 9. Enjoying a halal meal

Tai-Yi Red Maple Resort

The Tai-Yi Ecological Leisure Farm, located just an hour and 40 minutes away by train is a “flower palace” fantasy waiting to be lived out by those who hold all things nature-related close to their hearts. After a delightful tour of their farms and gardens, we were brought to an orchard to pick passion fruits to enjoy in the luxury of our rooms. In addition to their specialty “floral feasts” decked in edible flower petals, we also thoroughly enjoyed the resort’s hot-spring tubs in the guest rooms, leaving us rejuvenated to our core.

A Luxurious Stay With that being said, we believe that the cherry on top of any vacation is enjoying all the R&R in the world after painting the town red. If you pride yourself on being a connoisseur of the finer things in life, we cannot recommend Palais De Chine enough. Luxurious, lavish and ridiculously deluxe, its gleaming mahogany

panels and plush velvet drapes envelope you in a warm, dimly-lit cocoon, inviting you to have the best sleep of your life among classical Chinese artworks. Then there’s The Grand Hotel Taipei that leaves its guests seeing vermillion red—in the best way possible. Sitting on top of two secret tunnels rumoured to lead directly to the President’s Office and Official Residence (it doesn’t anymore. We checked!), the Grand Hotel makes you feel like you’ve just checked into a royal palace. And in a way, you have— with its 14-storeys flanked by a fortress of towering columns and opulently gilded tiles, your stay at the Muslimfriendly establishment, which has witnessed and hosted its fair share of historical events, is most definitely one for the books.

By the end of our trip, we learned that Taiwan is like a large sized cup of bubble tea. To the untrained eye, the city appears to be like any other, a milky blur of looming structures, sizable shopping malls and big crowds. But upon taking a few more sips and delving further beyond the city scaffolding, one discovers exciting pearls of interesting finds scattered throughout the country, more than you can count and definitely much more than meets the eye. Enjoy! Media travelled to Taipei using EVA Air. The media trip to Taipei was sponsored by the Taiwan Tourism Board and EVA Air. Royal Brunei Airlines offers direct flights to Taipei. Book now at www.flyroyalbrunei.com.

e d c e n t a a c t entr o l h nc ermar a r ! B s p g p n a y o r H d Jaya w a G d n r a u o o ext t s t r i e s i n V oint n o pm d 0 3 e . t 2 i p - 11pm r e m u r a o t 1 n 1 v : e a m C f n p u t r 0 a m ou 4.3 n-s

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call +673244 4183 to order your food for aOPTION faster pick up OPTION 1 1 casbahlondonkebab casbahlondonkebab www.casbahlondonkebab.com

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Traditional Indian Cuisine with a Modern Twist 1

This is an interesting time for Brunei’s culinary scene. In a country with a shared love of food, which has culminated in the opening of restaurants specialising in different types of international and regional cuisine, Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam is the first to introduce this nation of voracious eaters to contemporary Indian cuisine with the opening of their new upscale restaurant, Riwaz.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

uch like its namesake (Riwaz means ‘tradition’ in urdu), contemporary Indian cuisine is a melding of traditional spice and flavour in a modern presentation. Those looking to sit down in a cramped space where waiters shout your orders for a murtabak and curry gravy at the price of approximately BND2 per person (and that includes the teh tarik) might be sorely confused – Riwaz is all about serving your favourite Indian food in style. Riwaz opened on 11 December 2018, welcoming guests new and old into their stylish but elegant venue. Riwaz has been conceptualised as an upscale

restaurant serving Indian cuisine with a modern twist that is nothing short of authentic. And this successful marriage of contemporary and traditional can be mostly credited to Radisson Hotel’s Executive Chef: Chef Devesh Dabral, a man who hails from India himself, with over a decade’s worth of experience in the finest kitchens over the world. The decision to open this restaurant was fuelled by the popularity of their Incredible India food promotion in 2017, and the packed daily restaurant was an eye-opener for Chef Devesh, who learned that Indian cuisine certainly has its fans in Brunei. “This has been a personal

learning experience as a chef,” Chef Devesh explained. “I strive to give guests a different dining experience, wherever I work in the world. And I wanted to give Brunei the experience of dining on authentic Indian food.” “The specialty of Riwaz is we’re not touching anything in terms of taste,” Chef Devesh said. “While the food is presented in a modern trend, authenticity will remain the same. You find traditional kebabs coming directly out of a tandoor, and Indian specialties like the Patthar ka Gosht.” This dish in particular is lamb escalopes marinated for 48 hours and seared on a hot stone that comes all the way from Hyderabad – resulting in tender slices of lamb that literally melt in your mouth. “We also have the Hyderabadi Haleem, a

SIMPLY DELIGHTFUL

1. Tandoori Lobster

at Riwaz 2. Amuse Bouche

traditional dish invented by the Mughol Emperor and served during Ramadan.” But in keeping the local palate in mind, Chef Devesh has also added traditional gravies such as the Dum ka Murg, Murgh Makhani and Malabar Prawns, and of course, the biryani. “Our biryani is prepared the traditional way. Meat is marinated overnight, laid out in a copper pot and layered with rice. The copper pot is sealed with dough, and cooked. The pot isn’t opened until we present it to our guests, so that when the service staff opens the lid, they will get a whiff of the heavenly aroma of the biryani.”

on stone 3. Awadh hara kebab 4. Chef Devesh Dabral (center) with the chefs and staff of Riwaz 5. Butter Scotch Shrikhand

If Chef Devesh is indicating that Bruneians have been eating a different kind of biryani from the traditional kind, he’s not wrong. “When we made the decision to open Riwaz, the idea was to give the public something different. Being in Brunei for two and half years, I’ve learned that locals have different perceptions about Indian cuisine, so I wanted to give the locals authenticity with a modern twist. I took the best recipes available from the kitchens of India, compiled it in a new menu, and that was it.” Service, in particular, is very helpful here, with Indian service staff smoothly explaining to befuddled local guests about each item on the menu, from where the dish originates to how it’s prepared. And there’s plenty to unpack here in this menu that offers a good helping of regional soul food with a Bollywood symphony of tantalising tastes. And what can local foodies and future Indian cuisine lovers expect when dining at Riwaz? “Authenticity, authenticity and authenticity,” Chef Devesh said, with a smile.

Riwaz is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, and is located at the ground floor of the Radisson Hotel Brunei. Call them at 2244272 ext 8873 for bookings (due to the popularity of the restaurant, it is advisable to call ahead for reservations).

DESIGN YOUR

PERFECT EVENT Our Jungle View Room located in the Business Class Lounge is available for your breakfast meeting, business lunch or a group dinner up to 20 persons. Ask our dedicated catering team for assistance with a creative c snack or a full meal.

Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam Jalan Tasek, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8211, Brunei Darussalam. T +673 2244272 F +673 2221579 E SALES.BRUNEI@RADISSON.COM RADISSON.COM/BRUNEI

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FOR THE LOVE Brunei is a small country with an enormous choice of restaurants and eateries to choose from, so it is no secret that Bruneians love their food. But what the locals can’t get enough of are the traditional local delicacies which are very popular in this nation of voracious eaters and are, fortunately, very easy to find too. In fact, some of them are actually quite complicated to make which makes us appreciate the fact that they are still widely available around Brunei.

KEK BATIK Basically a chocolate fudge non-bake cake layered with Marie biscuits, you will find many modern variations of this cake, like the popular Kek Batik Dua Rasa which features two different layers of flavours and biscuits in one cake.

BUAHULU Heated over coal embers in brass moulds (typically handed down from generation to generation), these little bite-sized cakes come in different shapes and sizes.

KUEH PAPAN Translated to ‘wood cakes’, a mould made of selangan batu wood shapes the dough before it is steamed, broiled on coal embers and dried out in the sunlight.

KUEH SAPIT

A staple in every household, the crispy and crunchy Kueh Sapit is made with a round metal mould, which is then heated over coal embers before they are carefully removed, and then folded or rolled.

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These days you’ll find a variety of deviations from the original recipe, with many bakers using inventive ingredients between the layers of soft textured cake with different flavours.

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KUEH LAPIS

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OF BRUNEI KUIH Stroll down any row of hawker stalls in one of the many marketplaces in town and you will be sure to find an assortment of Kek Batik, a variety of coloured Bingka, the different sizes and shapes of the Buahulu, among many other popular Malay kueh. A household will always have a jar of Kueh Sapit, Panganan Cincin or Kueh Papan to munch on. Heated over coal embers, dried in the sunlight, deep-fried or just plain baked - here are some local treats we love to nom on (cup of teh tarik optional but highly recommended)

PENGELABAN

These little steamed red and green balls are made with coconut milk and rice flour, and filled with delicious grated coconut.

A sweet soft cake made with coconut milk, rice flour and sugar, the original Bingka Susu has paved the way for many other variations such as Bingka Beras, Bingka Keladi, and even Bingka Durian

PENYARAM These brown, hat-shaped delights are made with rice flour and brown palm sugar fermented overnight, and then deep-fried before serving. It results in a sweet, sticky, soft and yet crunchy texture that is plain delicious.

TAPAK KUDA Directly translated to ‘horse hoof’, so named because it resembles one, this modern kuih is a soft cake roll with a Nutella filling, and is an extremely popular local dessert.

PANGANAN CINCIN These crunchy delights are made with brown sugar and rice flour, shaped into five rings and deep-fried. An afternoon tea favourite among locals!

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BINGKA

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

Fuel’d Growing up, we were always told to “Eat your vegetables!” but with places like Fuel’d, we’ll never need to be told twice again. Newly opened in October as an extension of The Healthy Habit, Fuel’d saw a wave of interest when hordes of hopeful health foodies queued up outside the restaurant in Kiulap for a taste of the guilt-free menu. Abiding by every dietician’s holy grail portions, each bowl contains a generous helping of carbohydrates, lean protein, vegetables and nutritious toppings, fused together with a homemade sauce of choice. The selections are plentiful and the portions are generous, prepared with no additional salt, oil or sugar, other than what is already found in the ingredients. Bonus point: Fuel’d’s health bowls are wallet-friendly as well, starting at BND5 for a medium-sized bowl and BND7 for a large one. Add-ons are also available for any extra embellishments customers may want to add on to their already aesthetic meals. Let’s just say, the Instagrammer in you will definitely want to whip your phone out by the time you’ve finished curating your nutrition-laden meal at Fuel’d. Unit A4, Setia Kenangan 2, Kg Kiulap Open daily: 11am–3pm, 4.30pm-8pm (Monday-Thursday)/ 10am-8pm (Friday – closed 12noon-2pm)/ 11am-8pm (Saturday-Sunday) Tel: 673-8749881 IG: @fueld.bn 38

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Brukori Since it’s soft opening in May 2018, Brukori has turned into the go-to spot to satisfy your kimchi cravings. While it is located in the Flavour Food Hub of Little Soho amid other food & beverage offerings, a number of diners in this trendy food court seem to be eating out of steaming pots with flat metal chopsticks in hand. So first impression? Pretty good – and we hadn’t even ordered yet. Some of the Korean classics are here, and though you’re not going to find the popular Korean fried chicken or any barbecuing, they do have a good selection of Kim-bab, Bibim-bab, Tteokbokki and noodles. Our tuna mayo Kim-bab came in twelve thick slices tightly packed with rice, tuna and vegetables, and the flavourful Tteok-bokki came in half portion and single portion options (a half portion was more than enough for two of us). Our Kimchi Ramen was a steaming pot of springy noodles in a perfectly salty, sweet and sour broth, while our Bibim-bab was a satisfying meal served in a claypot bowl with rice, chicken and an assortment of vegetables (which came with a side of a pleasantly spicy Gochujang sauce, kimchi and Korean dilis). A food court is not the place to have cosy conversations and intimate meals but we would highly recommend Brukori for a quick but hearty Korean fix. Service is fast, portions are considerable, prices are low, and the chefs know their Korean cuisine. Food stall #6, Little Soho 1st Blk B, Spg 73-5-8, Jln Batu Bersurat, Gadong Open: 11am-8pm (Mon-Thurs, Sat), 2pm-8pm (Sunday) – closed Fridays Tel: 673-8645530 IG: @brukori

An unassuming front makes KungFu Noodle look like any other restaurant in the fashionable Setia Kenangan II area, and that’s a pity, because it has a more unique offering than your average kopitiam. Step inside and it becomes clearer with the logo of a panda and noodles (the connection between ‘Kungfu’ and ‘Panda’ will not be lost on anyone), and clearer still when you see chefs behind a glass pane pulling noodles. This is Kungfu Noodle, which mainly offers la mian noodles – freshly hand-pulled Chinese noodles cooked to order and piled into bowls of nourishing Chinese-style soul food. And soul foods they are, offering Beef Noodle Soup or Chicken Noodle Soup in a clear broth adorned with vegetables, which really brings the taste of the fresh noodles into focus. Other types of noodle dishes are

Kungfu Noodle available here, including their Signature Fried Lamb Lamian and the delicious Zha Jiang Mian, but if you’re not feeling noodles, there are plenty of rice options as well. Menu is small but to the point, and that includes the beverage selection, but if you’re

hankering for a bowl of delicious fresh noodles, this is a great place to check out.

D1, Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap, BSB Open daily: 10am-10pm Tel: 673-8972121 FB: kungfunoodlebrunei IG: @kungfunoodlebn

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Facts About Burger King Everyone Should Know! A restaurant that needs no introduction, this mega-chain is the second-largest hamburger chain in the world and the purveyor of some of the tastiest burgers in the world – including the famed ‘Whopper’. Sinofood Express did Bruneians a favour by opening the first Burger King restaurant in the heart of the capital back in 2014 and has opened another six branches across the sultanate since. And those are the things you do know, what about the facts you didn’t know? Read on!

All ingredients in a Burger King burger are prepared fresh daily

Burger King isn’t known for serving high-quality and great tasting food for no reason. In fact, the burger chain’s commitment to premium ingredients has defined their brand for over 50 years. Every crispy lettuce, perfectly ripe tomato, crunchy onion and tart pickle are freshly prepared daily to provide you with the best burger experience. Which brings us to…

Every burger is made to order

Every single burger is prepared fresh per order, so

once you’ve got the Whopper hankering going on and you sidle up to a Burger King counter to order one, your burger is prepared on the spot – ingredients are prepared and assembled fresh, and that quarter pound of meat is dropped fresh on the hot broiler and flame-grilled. Speaking of which…

Meat is flamegrilled

But what on earth does that mean? It’s a high-heat method of cooking that involves grilling with - you guessed it flames. The difference between Burger King’s method of grilling their burgers to any other burger

chain is distinct in its taste: flame-grilled meats have a charred, smoky flavour that is difficult to match. And while we’re on the topic…

Burger King beef is 100% meat, with no preservatives and no fillers

Every beef patty in every Burger King the world over is made with 100% meat, which means what you are munching on is not just a really tasty beefy burger, but a burger that has absolutely no fillers, no preservatives, no additives, and absolutely no nonsense.

#BurgerKing BruneiDelivers

If you didn’t know that you could get your favourite burger delivered to your home, here’s a little bit of news for you – you totally, totally can. Call 2462656 (Rimba branch) or 3229050 (Seria branch) for a tasty Burger King burger sent straight to your doorstep!

Get regular updates on Burger King Brunei by connecting with them online: www.burgerking.com.bn @burgerkingbrunei /bkbrunei @burgerkingbn

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eat , drink S a b a h Pamela Fletcher

Hello Stranger From the outside looking in, Hello Stranger beckons with its eclectic display of comfy sofas and high communal counters amidst typical café tables and chairs with discreet lighting to create a warm and inviting ambience – enough to make even a stranger feel right at home! The menu is heavily influenced by Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine with some western fare to add variety to its modest food list. Its all-day breakfast is decidedly western with Salmon Eggs Benedict, and sandwiches with your usual fillings including avocado if you’re so hipster-ly inclined. Main dishes include one-dish rice bowls with lemongrass grilled chicken or beef, teriyaki chicken, minced basil chicken and chicken katsu curry being the more popular choice of topping. For lighter meals, you can go for their banh mi, spring rolls or cold noodle salad with tofu. The menu is very versatile and you can have a similar bahn mi filling like butter chicken with either rice or pasta instead. Don’t miss out on their dessert – the cakes are delicious and pairs perfectly with a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee. •• Blk B2, No.B-G-53A, Jln Coastal, The Walk, Riverson, 88100 Kota Kinabalu Open: 8am–8pm (Mon – Fri)/ 11am–8pm (Sat & Sun) Tel: 6011-26801001

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

From its humble start as a home-based bakery in Papar, a small township south of the city, Kak Kiah Coffee House has spread its wings to the booming foodie centre of Plaza 333 in Penampang with the opening of its fourth branch there. The name Kak Kiah has become synonymous with a wide selection of cakes, pastries, cookies and light bites at very affordable prices. Colour is liberally used in decorating their eye-catching cakes, which you can buy by the slice, tempting patrons to ogle at all the sugary goodies like a kid in a candy store before piling up their tray to

Kak Kiah Coffee House the brim. Their cheese cakes get the most praise but have a go at their doughnuts or ‘bomboloni’ filled with durian cream, nutella, chocolate or mango, or bite into their crunchy churros dusted in cinnamon sugar. The bright pink walls and glass walls give the

Indo Padang Restaurant The latest restaurant to offer authentic Indonesian cuisine is Indo Padang Restaurant at ITCC Shopping Mall in Penampang, and judging

from the brisk lunch and dinner crowds, they are hitting all the right flavour notes. The restaurant is bright and spacious with wooden dining

interior a cheery and warm touch which is great to settle in for a cup of coffee or mid-day snack.

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Lot 44, Grd Flr, Blk F, Plaza 333, 89500 Penampang, Sabah Open daily: 11am–11pm Tel: 6088-717907

tables, chairs and panelling to add some warmth to the cool interior colour theme. The menu is a smorgasbord of signature Indonesian fare such as bakmi, nasi kuning with grilled or curry chicken, ayam penyet, beef rendang and satay. Some dishes could do with a bit more flavour and spice but overall, it’s a satisfying indulgence if you’re hankering for a taste of Indonesian comfort food. They’ve got some refreshing drinks and desserts with the ever popular ‘alpukat’ or avocado smoothie with chocolate sauce and shaved ice with syrup, avocado, jackfruit and lychee among its offerings of sweet treats.

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Lot No. G-7, Grd Flr, ITCC Mall, Penampang, Kota Kinabalu Open daily: 10:30am–9:30pm Tel: 6017-8187707

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eat , drink

The Ruffles Open since June 2014, The Ruffles has recently been featured on many social media posts – a testament to their popularity amongst local dessert-lovers. Taking a leaf out of Japanese café culture, the café has opted to focus mainly on their desserts. Desserts and cakes are baked fresh every day, using only premium ingredients. Patrons of The Ruffles flock to the café for their signature mille crêpe, a dessert made of layers of crêpe filled with homemade custard cream, which the café currently offers in eight different flavours. Other best-sellers at The Ruffles include the Saint-honore aux Fraise (strawberry puff), and their cotton sponge cakes. Not to be missed is their Chocolate Bomb, a decadent chocolate shell filled with brownies and ice-cream, topped with a hot chocolate espresso sauce.

Sarawak Irene Chan

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Kin

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Previously serving cuisine inspired by molecular gastronomy, the owners of Kulture have since rebranded themselves as Kin in mid-January 2018. The restaurant has taken a bold change of direction, offering comfort food derived from family recipes passed down from the owner’s grandmother. Humble fare it might be, but no less tantalising on the taste-buds, and bound to bring upon a sense of nostalgia in many a diner. The dishes are hearty and heartwarming, best shared amongst family and friends in the casual, minimalist environment of the restaurant. Many dishes feature plenty of pork – and pork is something Kin does very well indeed. However, their chicken dishes should not be overlooked; in fact, their double-boiled chicken soup deserves special mention – wonderfully nourishing and packed with flavour.

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Lot 1034 Jln Datuk Edward Jeli, Piasau Industrial Estate, 98000 Miri, Sarawak Open: 10.30am-6.30pm (closed Mondays) Tel: 6085-651669 Facebook: @ruffles.the Instagram: @therufflescafe

Brighton Square, Grd Flr, No. 31, Lot 11992, Jln Song, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak Open: 11am-10pm (closed Wednesdays) Tel: 6082-451517 FB: @kinkuching IG: @kinkuching

Pinggai Café There has been a resurgence of interest in ethnic cuisine in Sarawak as many are beginning to appreciate the uniqueness of Sarawakian fare. This also comes with an

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increased awareness that jungle produce and locally-sourced ingredients are a fresher and healthier option. Pinggai Café serves authentic Dayak food showcasing the

freshest seasonal ingredients, while also offering healthy desserts such as smoothie bowls. Tucked in a corner of Upper China street, the café’s concept is heritage with a modern touch. Must-try items include their Dayak Char Siew – the local take on the familiar pork dish, ayam pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo), and both the tempoyak and dabai fried rice dishes. Those seeking a truly ethnic Sarawakian experience may opt for the pulut – glutinous rice cooked in pitcher plant cups, and finish off their meal with a swig of tuak (local rice wine).

•• No. 37, Grd Flr Upper China Street, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak Open: 8am-4pm (closed Mondays) Tel: 6012-8770771 FB: @pinggaicafe IG: @pinggai_cafe Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG listings Aminah Arif 2 & 3 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2236198) – Call for other branches

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.

Our Picks Ranging from quick & easy meals to lobster & caviar, these are our favourite haunts around town!

Restoran Makan & Soto Rosmini Our favourite soto hang-out 1 Spg 15, Jln Gadong (673 8719946)

Amulya This North Indian restaurant serves our favourite briyani in town. Grd Flr Jln Setia Square Berakas, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2339230)

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)

Chop Jing Chew Freshly made Roti Kahwin perfectly paired with a teh tarik 10 Spg 5 Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 2424132)

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

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

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)

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 Spg 13 Hj Uthman Complex, Berakas (673 2335642)

Open daily: 8am-10pm; 49-50 Wisma Raya, Jln Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien, BSB (673-2220215)

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

Gratitude Café Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2341123)

Caffe Bene This coffeehouse giant from Korea opened its doors in Brunei in 2017, and is serving your favourite Korean beverages, desserts and coffee at their cosy location in the Airport Mall! Open daily: 9am-11pm; Patio 8, Grd flr Airport Mall, KG JAYA SETIA (673-2340836)

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

Happy Dean Restaurant No 3, Grd Flr, Zainuddin Complex, Spg 11, Anggerek Desa, Berakas A (673 2340885) – 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.

Impian Rasa Restaurant #5 Bgn Pg Hjh Rafiah Spg 607 Jln Jangsak, Gadong (673 2653858) – Call for other branches

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

Kaka Restaurant 2 & 3 Spg 100 Jln Jerudong (673 2672333) – Call for other branches

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

Great Taste Restaurant Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2233913)

La Mee #1B & 1c Grd Flr Spg 41-1-12, 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) Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

GALLERY Burger King The Home of the Whopper and the second largest hamburger chain in the world, Burger King is serving your favourite burgers in seven branches across Brunei.

Gurkha Palace 47 Jalan Bunga Melor, Seria Town (673 3221474)

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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 dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Customers can enjoy light snacks

biG listings

KYNA POPSICLES Donuts are a-plenty, cupcakes are sometimes too pretty to eat, and we’ve had all the cookies we can take. In this heat and temperature, we’ll be very happy to take the refreshing and classic popsicle as the next great dessert trend. Stepping right up the ice-cold plate is KYNA Popsicles – a purveyor of quirky, refreshing, adorable as heck, and OMG delicious popsicles that will make you melt in any temperature. KYNA (which means ‘love’ in Irish) is the brainchild of a married couple who were inspired by the artisan popsicle concept on a trip to Melbourne. You’ll find most of their flavours here are inspired by locations, with the idea that if you can’t go abroad to taste these flavours, then they’ll bring the flavours to you – popsicle style! With promotional seasonal flavours out every two weeks (our favourite was the ‘White Walkers’ – a Game of Thronesinspired taste), you’ll have a lot of fun just choosing from their fun array of flavours, which includes the popular Matchoreo, Strawberry and Blueberry Cheesecake, Cotton Candy, Thai Tea Special, Onde-Onde, and for the Potterheads, Butterbeer! KYNA Popsicles can be found at Kontena Park (at the end of Spg 3237, Kg Anggerek Desa) and The Krema (Blk D, Bgn Lim Eng Ming, Kg Kiulap). They are also available for catering and delivery. Tel: 673-7279092 IG: @kyna.bn

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG listings

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) Pho Real 1st Flr Times Square Food Court, Kg Jaya Setia Rice Bowl 72 T.C.Y Building, Batu Bersurat (673 8630665) Sapphira Cake House 3 Grd Flr Seri Anigma, Kiulap (673 2232021)

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 Spicy Curry & Wraps from Arabic to Indian cuisine, check out these restaurants if you like a spicy kick to your meals. Sugar ‘n’ Spice Grd Flr Blk B, Spg 150-513-18, Bgn Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap, Brunei BE1518 Amsarra Shawarma & Espresso Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia 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)

Sweet Buttons Café & Catering Unit 4, Grd Flr, Spg 98, Kpg Delima Satu, Berakas A (673 8285235)

Delhi Darbar Restaurant & Catering Spg 38 Jln Jerudong (673 2672826)

Ya Nur Restaurant #7 1st Flr Bgn Hj Tahir 2, Kg Menglait (673 8719986)

Le Taj 2-3 2nd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2238996) Lotus Family Restaurant 27B Grd Flr Delima Jaya Complex, Berakas (673 2342049) Rajah’s Restaurant 3 Grd Flr Blk A Bangunan PAP Umi Kalthum, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2240379) Saffron Restaurant 8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2235888) Sameer Restaurant & Catering G1 Grd Flr Sg Akar Sentral, Berakas (673 2336613) Spices Restaurant #1 Grd Flr Blk A Aman Complex, Jln Muara (673 2330081)

Zaika Restaurant A4 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 3347430) Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant 1A & 1B Heng Thai Property Centre, Spg 22, Jalan Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 2450009) Western Food Italian pizzas, American steaks and burgers, British cottage pies – we list down the restaurants that serve the best from the west. Bello Café L1/12 Seri Kiulap Mall, Kiulap (673 2233989) – Call for other branches 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 Cheezbox Café External Café, Ramp A, The Mall, Gadong (673 2425506) Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2232368) – Call for other branches De’ Olde Cottage 2 Grd Flr Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2426982) – Call for other branches Deli-Bites Royal Brunei Recreation Club (Poolside Terrace), Jln Terunjing Lama, Berakas (673 877928) Flapjack House #6 Bgn Majid Mohamad Jln Pasar Baharu, Kg Kiarong (673 2450987) Magnum Café 18 & 19 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2392555) Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – Call for other branches

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY 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 Curry Puff Factory The bright orange storefront of local favourite The Currypuff Factory signifies two things: first, that this is the place that has a buffet with a large selection of delicious local cuisine at affordable prices, and two, there’s some delicious curry puffs to try here too! Come here to eat, but stay for the savoury desserts: their curry puffs are larger than your average puffs because they’re packed with generous helpings of curry potatoes and chicken with a creamy and buttery filling ensconced in a puff pastry that will melt in your mouth. OPEN DAILY 6.30am-9.30pm; #109, Bangunan Kumbang Pasang (Gadong Properties), GADONG (673 8686466) – call for other branches Royal Brunei Catering

Anjung Saujana As ever, Anjung Saujana offers travelers a unique dining experience before their onward journey out of Brunei. The restaurant features ala carte and Buffet menus, taking inspirations from around the world. OPEN DAILY 7m-10.30pm (7am-12noon, 2pm-10.30pm on Fridays); Departure Hall, Level One, Brunei International Airport (673 2331853/2339207)

Dynasty Dynasty restaurant boasts an expansive menu of 50 dim sum pieces and the famous roasted duck. A welcoming Chinese restaurant located on the ground floor of Centrepoint Hotel. OPEN DAILY 9am-2pm, 6pm-10pm (Mon-Thurs)/ 8am12noon, 6pm-10pm (Fri)/ 8am-2pm, 6pm-10pm (Sat)/ 8am-5pm, 6pm-10pm (Sun); Grd Flr, The Centrepoint Hotel, GADONG (673 2430185/6)

Express Fast Food Take a bite out of history with this fast food flashback! Express Fast-Food has solidifies itself in the heart of the population and the fast-food scene. Known for their classic Fried Chicken and Seasoned French Fries. OPEN DAILY 8am-10pm (2pm-10.30pm on Fridays); Grd Flr, #1, Blk A, Bgn Hj Awg Matussin HA, KG KIULAP (673 2237253)

biG listings

THE ACAI BAR The acai berry might have had its beginnings on the shelves of traditional Chinese medicine shops, but its current superfood status has the humble berry (which is packed full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds) rising up the ranks of Instagram health food fame, touting health benefits that include boosting energy, reducing cholesterol, improving your immune system, and more. And now, thanks to two childhood friends who started The Acai Bar simply because they couldn’t find any acai bowls to satisfy their cravings post-workout, you can now have your organic acai (and eat it too!). Using actual organic acai fruit pulp from Brazil, the Acai Bar uses acai as a base for their bowls but adds on fun toppings to make it more like a dessert. Have it super healthy and top it off with their homemade granola, glazed seeds and locally sourced fruits, or add extra chocolate or cookie butter toppings instead. Expect to hear good news about The Acai Bar opening a store sometime this year, but for now, you can place orders through their social media platforms. IG: @theacaibar.bn FB: The Acai Bar Tel: 673-8920091 (whatsapp only)

Fratini’s Restaurant #1 Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2451200) – 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) Magherita Pizzeria #5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 8688884) Paddington House of Pancakes 3&4 Blk C Spg 58, Jln Berakas, Kg Serusop (673 2331668) Pastamania #9 Grd Flr Blk H Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2457441) – Call for other branches Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2253000)

Qasehmaisara Café House #206-209 2nd Flr Plaza Athirah, Jln Kubah Makam DiRaja (673 2789898) RMS Diner A5 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 3347455) RBC Lifestyle Cafe Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2220815) Rovansil Restaurant #36-38 1st Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2337129) 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

Coffee & Cafes Gourmet, premium-grade, specialty coffee – this list accommodates the best of the burgeoning local coffee industry. Another Café #2 Grd Flr Blk A Bgn Hj Abd Rahman & Hjh Siti Ajar, Kiulap (673 2233593) Baristas by Modesto Grd Flr Food Arena Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kg Kiulap (673 2237771) 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) Brew Café & Bakery #47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 2427554)

Sorriso Restaurant & Pizzeria #14 Blk B Grd Flr Regent Square, Kiulap (673 2233030) Caffé Verve #6A Spg 68, Jln Batu Swensen’s Bersurat (673 8757382) #2.34-2.36 2nd Flr The Mall, Gadong (673 2451864) The Collective Wildflower Café Wing-It Grd Flr Royal Brunei #16 Grd Flr Citis Square, Recreational Club (RBRC), Kg Jaya Setia (673 7224999) BSB

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG listings

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY Horizons Arguably the most breathtaking restaurant in Brunei capital, Horizons at the waterfront gives a panoramic view of the iconic Kampong Ayer with an array of fusion cuisine from Thai, Western to Chinese dishes and succulent seafood. Talk about dining with a view!

DYNASTY RESTAURANT

OPEN DAILY 10.30am-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm (2pm10.30pm on Fridays); Waterfront, Jln McArthur, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 2233400/2233401)

Known as Brunei’s first halal Chinese restaurant serving a dazzling array of authentic Dim Sum and Chinese cuisine, Dynasty restaurant boasts an expansive menu of 50 dim sum pieces and the famous roasted duck. A welcoming Chinese restaurant located on the ground floor of Centrepoint Hotel, nicely designed in a modern concept that exudes a quiet oriental elegance, the extensive menu focuses on Cantonese fare, but also strays into Southeast Asian cuisine with the likes of Kway Teow and Fish Fillet with Butter Milk Sauce. The restaurant offers dinner buffet every Friday and Saturday from 6:30pm to 10:00pm.

Seasons Restaurant Located on the 2nd floor of Centrepoint Hotel, this eatery offers the best in contemporary Asian cuisine and buffet spreads. OPEN DAILY 6am-10.30pm (2pm-10.30pm on Fridays); 2nd Flr, The Centrepoint Hotel, GADONG (673 2422291/242292) The Empire Hotel & Country Club

TEL: 673-2430185/6 IG: @dynastyrestaurantbn FB: Dynasty Restaurant Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2232368) 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 Full Haus Coffee Grd Flr Riverview Medical Complex, Jln Gadong, Kg Kumbang Pasang (673 2240456) Games & Lattes Café #E9 Grd Flr Blk E Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 2235200) 46

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Geo Eats No. 13, Spg 381, Kg Jerudong (673 8271381) Gloria Jean’s Coffee G17 Citis Square, Berakas (673 2338452) 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 Al-Warasah, Muara Town (673 2772424) – call for other branches Kapra Coffee #26 Grd Flr Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 2345656)

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 7214977) Peppermint Café Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap Beribi (673 8221888) Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2241558) Pulp Lvl 1 An’najat Complex, Kg Mata-Mata, Gadong

Rack & Brew #9 Blk H 1st & 2nd Flr Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 7299668) Rafia’s VK Café G13 Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 8906990) Ran’s Coffee 1st Flr the Centrepoint Hotel Abdul Razak Complex Terminal 1 T1-05, Gadong (673 8697700) 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 Sweet As Sara Unit 7A, Ground Floor, Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 8889169)

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

Divine Dining Exquisite meals in beautiful settings – perfect for special occasions Atrium Café The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 2418888) Dynasty Restaurant Grd Flr Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2430185) 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) 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)

Pureland Vegetarian Restaurant #15 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Awg Ahmad bin Hassan & Anak-anak, Kiulap (673 2236503)

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 Bento Brothers #B19 Blk B Bgn Habza Spg 150, Kg Kiulap (673 2236800) Burgers & Grills F20, Jln Tengah Bangunan, Bowling Alley Seria, Kpg Pekan Seria (673 3221434) Nasi Katok Mama Express 3 Blk A Grd Flr Kompleks Madang, Madang (673 8641681) Pan & Wok #28A Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2342836) Pelicana Chicken Unit C7, Blk C, Setia Kenangan ll, Kiulap (673 2239933) RBC Express Fast Food #1 Grd Flr Blk A, Bangunan Hj Matussin, Kg Kiulap (673 2237253) Non-Halal Options Danes Café #102, Bgn Batu Bersurat, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 2428914)

Go Green Healthy and vegetarian friendly options

Golden Leaf Coffee House Blk 1 Grd Flr PAP Hjh Norain Building, Jln Batu Satu (673 2220422) – Call for other branches

Mituo Vegetarian Restaurant Grd Flr Pg Anak Puteri Norain Complex, Batu Satu (673 2222821) The Energy Kitchen Grd Flr, Fitness Zone Kiulap, Palm Garden Hotel, Kg Kiulap BE1518 (673 2233323) TCVH Vegetarian House B3, Grd Flr, Blk B, Spg 150-5-13-18, Bgn Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 8665952)

GALLERY

The Healthy Habit Blk A, Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap BE1518 (673 2231030)

Tarindak D’Seni Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Centre, Kota Batu (673 2240422)

Brunei Detox Bar 9 Grd Flr, Abdul Razak Complex, BE3519

ADVERTISERS

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

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) / 11am-3pm (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

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)

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) – Korean café, serves all-day brunch 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) – Gourmet French restaurant with an extensive selection of cheeses and wines, a wine bar and delicatessen (non-halal) 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) Jothy’s Fish head Curry & Banana Leaf Blk 1 Lot G9 Api Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 595) Kirishima Japanese Restaurant Cititel Express No 1 Jln Singgah Mata 1 Asia City, Kota Kinabalu (6088 217 868)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Kohinoor North Indian Restaurant Lot 4 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 235 160) Korean Club Restaurant 4 Jln Aru, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 213) Little Italy Grd Flr Hotel Capital Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 231) Mad Ben Café Lot 121, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 255 073) – classic western food Mai Yai Thai Orchid Restaurant Lot 13 KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu (6088 234 841) Mdm Ing Fish Noodle Lot 21 Towering Koidupan Perdana Jln Tambunan, Penampang (6016 831 8726) 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)

– Asian food incorporating health conscious ingredients Pancake House Concourse Flr 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 110) Lot G94-94A Karamunsing Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 319 168)

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) – non-halal European fare with extensive wine collection Wah San Restaurant D2-G Blk 17 Jln Pryer, Sandakan (6089 212 626)

Party Play 117 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 311 210)

Port View Seafood Village Lot 18 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 753) Pusas the Smokehouse Ground Floor, S6, Jalan Signal Hill The Peak Vista, Kota Kinabalu (6088 299 199) – Serves burgers, hotdogs and sandwiches with locally produced premium bacon and sausages (non-halal)

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)

Sailors Lot 36 1st Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6088 731 960)

Nishiki Japanese Restaurant Shop 4 Grd Flr 63 Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu (6088 230 582) October Coffee House Blk B The Peak Vista Lorong Puncak 1 Tjg Lipat, Kota Kinabalu (6010 346 954)

Sakura Japanese Restaurant G-23A & G-25, Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu (6088 273 604) – Japanese cuisine

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

Santola Café Lot 14 Blk B Damai Point, Kota Kinabalu (6088 260 188)

Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh 74, Jln Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 192) – All pork dishes served in herbal soup

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)

Borenos Fried Chicken, Sabah’s very own home-grown fried chicken restaurant, is pulling in the crowds with its tender and juicy fried chicken. The chicken is certainly well-seasoned, cooked fresh when ordered and has just the right breading consistency to give you that delicious crunch with every bite. Have it with fluffy rice or fries and other side dishes such as cheesy wedges, coleslaw and mashed potato but it tastes just as good on its own.

Peppermint Vietnamese Cuisine No. 85 Grd Flr Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6012 802 4582)

Restoran Makanan Sedap No 1-0-1 Blk B Jln Kolam Centre Phase 2 Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 247 459)

Yoshimi Japanese Restaurant Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 388)

Borenos Fried Chicken

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

Restaurant Baba & Nyonya Recipe Blk E Grd Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6016 810 8206)

Yamagoya Ramen Lot 109 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 253 701)

Lot G23, Kompleks Asia City, Jln Asia City, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Tel: 6018-9632280 FB: @borenos

Crack Inc. Crack Inc. is first and foremost a coffee roastery with a master roaster that can create amazing blends to suit each individual taste. Opening up a cafe to give coffee aficionados a taste of their brilliant roasting skills was pure genius, and this has opened the door for an even more enriching experience in appreciating the different tastes, flavours and aromas of coffee which clients can ask to create just for them. Try out their own blend or ask them to roast one just for you to bring home and enjoy at leisure. GMC-G-07, Blk A-1, The Walk@ Riverson, Kota Kinabalu Tel: 6016-8226268 FB: @crackinc.coffee

biG listings Alfian Restaurant 52 Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 215) All Joy Café 8-1 Jln Khoo Hun Yeang, Kuching (6082 243 535) 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)

Casabella Mediterranean Restaurant Crown Square, Kuching (6082 346 612)

Damai ABC Shaved ice or ais batu campur (ABC) is that one thing that is guaranteed to cool you down on a hot day but at Damai ABC, it’s so much more than just shaved ice. Besides the standard toppings of chendol and red beans, you can also add other yummy goodness such as luscious pumpkin and sago with bits of sweet potato and sweet corn, all drenched in coconut milk and their secret recipe gula Melaka sauce over soft shaved ice. Damai ABC is a small stall tucked into a corner of this busy open air food court so aim for non-peak hours so that you can sit and savour this simple yet deliciously satisfying dessert.

Chef at Home Lorong Green 1 Blk 10, Kuching (6016 858 5159) Chuan Hong Restaurant 123 Jln Council SAman (6083 322 466) Crown Dynasty Restaurant Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Bintulu (6086 335 908) Cuppa-kap Coffee Jln Song, Kuching (6019 8869636)

Bee Hiong Restaurant Café 157G Jln Muhibbah, Lawas (6085 285 137)

Da Mi Xiang Gu Tou Bao Restaurant Tabuan Hts Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 458 952)

Beei Jing Restaurant Sdn Bhd 157 Jln Kg Nyabor, Sibu (6084 330 955)

Dynasty Chinese Restaurant Oil Town Comm Complex, Miri (6085 424 000)

Bismi Restaurant 27 Jln Sommerville, Bintulu (6086 331 835)

Earthlings Coffee Workshop Coffee shop, roaster, academy Lot 45, Grd Flr, No. 1, CityONE Megamall, Jln Song

Hock Chu Leu Restaurant 28 Jln Tukang Besi, Sibu (6084 316 524)

East Court Chicken Rice 867 Jln Club SAman (6083 326 818)

Imperial Duck Restaurant 313 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 336 313)

Eden Everise Wisma Nation Horizon, Block C, Kuching (6016 888 4522)

James Brooke Bistro & Café Western and signature local cuisine by the waterfront Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman 93100 Kuching (6082 412 210)

Bites by the Batik 38 Jln Pandungan, Kuching (6082 422 845) Bla Bla Bla 27, Jln Tabuan, 93000, Kuching (6082 2330944) – Chinese-inspired fusion dishes Black Bean Coffe & Tea 87, Ewe Hai Street, 93000 Kuching (6082 420 290) – Most aromatic shop in town with the finest brews Boardriders Café Plaza Merdeka Jln Pearl, Kuching (6082 237 526) Boulevard Restaurant 2228 Jln Saberkas, Lutong (6085 653 175) Buenas Filipino Lechon & Restaurant 329 Jln Tj Batu, Bintulu (6086 310 860)

Escobar SF3 Damai Cenral Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching (6014 288 1160) Fac Bravo Restaurant 7778 Jln Sultan Iskandar, Bintulu (6086 316 920) Farley Restaurant 1721 Jln Salim, Sibu (6019 816 3052) Feast & Furious Café 244, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman (6016 2620916)

Café Café at Original Carwash Low 211-214, Section 9, KTLD, Rubber Rd, Kuching (6082 256 396) – Asian and western fare including Nyonya and Foochow cuisine

Fisherman Restaurant 4 Jln Chew Geok Lin, Sibu (6084 316 888)

Café Min Xin Lot 1126-27 Riam Comm Centre, Miri (6085 628 839)

Fu Lai Siang Restaurant 108 Jln Pekan Bt Niah, Bt Niah (6085 737 168)

Capital Restaurant 86 Jln Keppel, Bintulu (6086 331 160) Carvery Restaurant Jln Abell, Kuching (6082 239 449)

Fratini’s Restaurant 2512 Jln Boulevard 3, Miri (6085 431 115)

Golden City Restaurant 87, Jln Ong Chu Seng, Saratok (6083 436 139) Highlands Seafood Restaurant 298 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 318 828)

Lot #9, Blk B, Grd Floor, Damai Plaza Phase 4, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu FB: @DAMAIABCDamaiPh4

Jubilee Restaurant 49G Jln India, Kuching (6082 245 626) Khan’s Bilal Restaurant 229-G Jln Maju, Miri (6085 418 440)

Lok Thian Restaurant 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 3313 310) Lu Lai Vegetarian 3641, Lrg 2 Off Jln Rock, Kuching (6082 242 863) Lucky Restaurant 65C G Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 562) Lyn’s Thandoori Restaurant 7 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 234 934) Mango Tree Restaurant Jalan Crookshank, Kuching (6082 235 353)

Map Restaurant Bang Terminal, Kuching Kim Bay HK Macau Restaurant (6082 459 087) Boulevard Shopping Mall Marco Polo Restaurant Jln Datuk Tawi, Kuching 116A BDA Shahida, Bintulu (6082 239 308) (6086 332 458) Koreana Restaurant Medan Seafood 10002 Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching Restaurant (6082 575 072) 56, Jln Mdn Setiaraja, Mukah (6084 874 145) Kuching Noodle Porridge House 115-1 Wisma Saberkas, Kuching Merry Restaurant 187 Jln Song Thian Cheok, (6082 426 005) Kuching (6082 240 118) L.L. Banana Leaf Metro Café 7G Lorong Rubber 1 781 Jln Bangkita, Limbang Jln Rubber, Kuching (6085 215 488) (6082 239 404) Min Hua (89) Li Garden Restaurant Restaurant Hock Lee Centre, Kuching G 13 Jln Bintang Utara, (6082 340 785) Bintangor (6084 693 240) Lim Hock Ann Momoyama 96 1 Jln Kg Kuntal, Wisma Phoenix, Kuching Kuching ( (6082 420 561) 6082 846 533)

My Little Kitchen Home cooked style Scandinavian food inspired by the owner’s grandma’s recipes 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 Non-halal nyonya cuisine 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)

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) Shabu-kun Restaurant 253 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 317 311) Sheraton Restaurant 37 Psn Brooke, Sibu (6084 336 341) 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) Sri Menanti Coffee House Restaurant 15 Lrg Pahlawan 7b, Sibu (6084 218 196) Surabaya Restaurant 288 Jln Bendahara, Miri (6085 411 239) 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) Teo Seafood 787 Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching Chicken Clinic (6082 846 532)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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.

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 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).

B u ses 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... 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 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

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

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. Terminal 2 caters to low-cost carriers Air Asia, Cebu Pacific and Eastar Jet.

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 both airport terminals 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

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

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Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003) Starring Scarlett Johansson, Colin Firth, Cillian Murphy and Tom Wilkinson Directed by Peter Webber

Frida (2002) Starring Salma Hayek, Alfred Molina, Geoffrey Rush, Ashley Judd and Edward Norton Directed by Julie Taymor Possibly remembered by most as the time when Salma Hayek had a unibrow, this movie chronicles the life of Frida Kahlo – the brilliant Mexican artist famous for her self-portraits, portraits and works inspired by her home country. The movie attempts to tell the tale of Frida’s extraordinary life – from the accident that debilitates her, to her rocky marriage to famed muralist Diego Rivera, to her many extramarital affairs. And unibrow jokes aside, Salma Hayek was resplendent in the story that she fought hard to bring to the screen, and was later nominated Best Actress at the Academy Awards for her role.

Pollock (2000) Starring Ed Harris and Marcia Gay Harden Directed by Ed Harris Artist Jackson Pollock certainly had mental issues, but unfortunately his form of medication was alcohol – lots of it. Less a movie about art than about the work that goes behind creating a painting, and the additional labour of living life with a tortured mind and constantly hungover body, this is a movie about famed artist Jackson Pollock, his life, his depression and the staunch support of his wife. In the chaos of his life, Pollock’s only reprieve is when he paints, and when he does, he is confident, almost possessed, and absolutely free. Ed Harris directs and stars in this insightful movie, and was nominated a Best Actor Oscar for it, and it remains one of the best films about art today.

In this issue of BiG we focus on art, and turn your art-critical eye to a few movies that explore the central theme of art and the artists behind it. Whatever a person’s thoughts on the broad range of themes that is art, we can safely say that every art is unique to the person who creates it and the person who views it. In these movies, art stems from a variety of reasons, from desire to tragedy and obsession to escape, and every single one of them is certainly worth a watch. Here are eight movies about art (or artists) that we think you should see.

Based on the book by Tracy Chevalier, this movie speculates the story behind the famous painting made in 1665 by Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer. Historically, not much is known about this subdued painting of a young woman looking at us over her left shoulder with a single pearl earring adorning her left lobe. The movie instead tells a fictional tale about a young lady named Griet who is sent to work as a maid for Vermeer. When a wealthy patron begins to desire Griet and commissions a painting of her, Vermeer and Griet begin to spend long hours alone together, as Vermeer begins creating his famous work of art.

Art

about

My Left Foot (1989)

Starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Brenda Fricker and Alison Whelan Directed by Jim Sheridan

Daniel Day-Lewis won an Oscar for this role, and if you watch the movie, it’s not hard to understand why. This tells the story of Christy Brown – a brilliant author, poet and artist who was born with cerebral palsy and had no control over any part of his body, except his left foot. Born poor in a large Irish family with a strong supportive mother who sees the intelligence in her son, this movie is about a man who never had an easy life, and tells it in a way that is darkly comic, unsympathetic yet inspires sympathy, and remains a brilliant depiction of a gifted man and his remarkable courage. 56

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Basquiat (1996)

Big Eyes (2014) Starring Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz Directed by Tim Burton

Great Expectations (1998) Starring Ethan Hawke, Gwyneth Paltrow and Robert DeNiro Directed by Alfonso Cuarón A modern tale of the classic Charles Dickens story, this is a movie about Finn, an artist in New York, and his unrequited love for the beautiful but haughty Estella. The story, as Finn tells it, is not the way it actually happened, but how he remembers it. And his is the story of a poor boy in love with a rich girl, which soon becomes the story of an acclaimed artist whose path crosses with the childhood love of his past, and finds that no matter what he has accomplished in life, he remains a poor boy in love with an unattainable rich girl. It’s also a visually enchanting film about a young man coming of age and the bittersweet romance that permeates its entirety.

The story of Margaret Keane and her life’s work: paintings of children with innocent and distortedly large eyes, that was very popular back in the 60’s (and remains popular today). And when her art became famous, it was Margaret’s husband, Walter, who took credit for the work, claiming the reason that no one would be interested in buying from lady painters. This is a movie that asks the viewer a lot of questions about art: its concept, its meaning, and what it means to create art that is hugely popular yet critically panned. Most of all, it’s about owning your art, and when Margaret finally takes a stand against her husband, you’ll be rooting for her, no matter what you think about her art.

Starring Jeffrey Wright, David Bowie, Dennis Hopper, Gary Oldman and Claire Forlani Directed by Julian Schnabel Painter Julian Schnarel directs this movie with an all-star cast about his friend, Jean-Michel Basquiat, a graffiti artist who was once the anonymous artist of graffiti art found all over New York in the 90’s. Identifying himself as SAMO, it wasn’t long until collectors began hunting down his paintings – painted on boards, walls, canvases, his girlfriend’s dress – and Basquiat soon became a star in the New York art scene. Unfortunately, this sweet and pensive artist was also a victim of his own self-destruction, and he died in 1988 of an overdose at the young age of 28.

Loving Vincent (2017) Voiced by Douglas Booth, Chris O’Dowd, Josh Burdett and Holly Earl Directed by Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman If you ever wanted to absorb a movie like a painting, this first ever fully oil painted animated film might be the film for you. This is a dreamscape, what you would imagine living in the great van Gogh’s art, and it tells the story of what is an animated imagining of the last months of Vincent van Gogh’s life, as a young man delivers van Gogh’s final letter to his brother Theo. It’s an accomplished film, and whether you actually learn anything about Vincent can Gogh at all seems to be beside the point, because you will certainly be impressed by it. Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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Movies to look out for this quarter FEB Dark Phoenix

FEB

Starring Sophie Turner, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jennifer Lawrence

During a space rescue mission, Jean Gray (Turner) is hit by a mysterious cosmic force which, instead of killing her, amplifies her superpowers tenfold. Unable to stabilise the unbridled forces within her, the unpredictability of her powers takes a toll on the dynamic of the X-Men as they battle aliens intent on using Jean Grey’s newfound powers to rule the galaxy – and at the same time, save their friend’s soul.

JAN

Hart and Nicole Kidman

When Phillip (Cranston) is left paralyzed from the neck down after a hang-gliding accident, it kicks off the search for the perfect caretaker to cater to all his needs. Dell (Hart), an ex-convict, is hired against all odds when his sharp wit and blatant humour wins over Phillip from the get-go, and an unlikely friendship between an aristocrat and an ex-convict from the projects unfurls.

MAR

Tiffany Haddish

Five years after that fateful Taco Tuesday, Bricksburg is now a post-apocalyptic wasteland thanks to the Duplo invaders. Emmet (Pratt), still in denial about the shakedown of their home, continues living his life unhindered (because “everything is awesome!”). But when an intergalactic alien kidnaps his friends, he is forced to step up to the plate for the ultimate rescue mission of his life.

JAN

Glass Starring James McAvoy, The Upside Starring Bryan Cranston, Kevin

The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part Starring Chris Pratt, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett and

Serenity Starring Diane Lane, Matthew

Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson

McConaughey, Jason Clarke and Anne Hathaway

Taking place in the same universe as M. Night Shyamalan’s Unbreakable and Split, Bruce Willis returns as David Dunn, the father with immense strength, who sets out on a thrilling chase to take down Kevin Wendell Crumb’s (McAvoy) most dangerous persona: the superhuman figure known as The Beast. Samuel L. Jackson also reprises his role as Elijah Price a.k.a. Mr. Glass, a shadowy presence who holds key information about The Beast.

Baker Dill (McConaughey) lives a secluded life as a captain of a fishing boat who leads tours on tranquil Plymouth Island—for good reason. But when his ex-wife Karen (Hathaway) makes an unsettling appearance back in his life, she has a big favour to ask of him. Pleading with him to rid her of her abusive husband, her request sends him on a dangerous downward spiral as his tropical reality begins to mirror the past that he has tried so hard to escape.

Captain Marvel Starring Brie Larson, Gemma Chan, Jude Law and Samuel L. Jackson

Former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot Carol Denvers (Larson) is transformed into the strongest superhero the galaxy has ever seen after an accident leaves her with potent superpowers. Parthuman and part-Kree, she is enlisted into Starforce - an elite Kree military team - before returning to a distraught Earth with burning questions about the life and identity she left behind.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

MAR

Dumbo Starring Colin Farrell, Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito, Eva Green and Alan Arkin.

Holt (Farrell) is a former circus star ravaged from his time in the war, who is hired by a struggling circus owner (DeVito) to raise a baby elephant with oversized ears named Dumbo. Dumbo is ridiculed by others but loved by Holt’s children, who soon discover something magical about him: he can fly!

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