YTL

Issue Twel ve

T h e

Y T L

L u x u r y

M a g a z i n e

T h e
Y T L
L u x u r y
M a g a z i n e

Azur Like It

Spring Arrives inSaint-Tropez

Cuisine Sans
Frontieres

Chef Martin Yan on
Eating, Drinking & Living
PP 15585/10/2010(025760)

Sound Trek

Celebrated Film Music
Composer, Michael Brook

The Art of Jamu • SIHH 2011 Report • Tomas Maier

Contents
1412Life on the Cover

12 The sleek Muse Hôtel de Luxereopens this April.
14 Chef Nicolas Le Toumelin of its
M Restaurant lets us in on thesimple elegance of his cuisine.
16 For over a century, the Côted’Azur, or the French Riviera, hasbeen the epicentre of style.

Life Events

18 Earth Hour in Singapore.

Life Bites

22 Hot happenings at
YTL Hotels.

View of Life

24 Meet Captain Mokh, a manwith a military past whose
present mission as Tanjong
Jara Resort’s resident

naturalist is to introduce guests
to nature’s many wonders.

Life Feature

28 As the perfect all-weather
holiday destination, Japan's
Niseko offers a wealth ofactivities for the adventureinclined.
32 Introducing a designer playlistof tracks created exclusively
by YTL’s very own music man
Gavin Aldred.
34 Chef Martin Yan, the first Asianto successfully break into the
US mainstream media, remains
irrepressibly enthusiastic oversharing his love and knowledgeof Chinese food.
40 Shook! Shanghai sets a new
standard of fine dining on thecity’s iconic Bund.

44 Canadian film music composer
Michael Brook shares his
views about his creative
process, the messages behindthe music he creates andthe advantages of staying
under the Hollywood radar.

Designer Life

48 Pangkor Laut Estates, theexclusive beachfront retreat
at the award-winning Pangkor
Laut Resort is the scene for
YTL Life's haute summer
fashion narrative.

Beautiful Life58 In an exclusive interview,
Bottega Veneta’s Tomas
Maier explains that thebrand’s whispered
extravagance makes it
coveted by the fashion elite.

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life on the cover //90

48
62 This season’s hottest
accessories are a celebrationof beguiling colours,surprisingfabrics and elegant
embellishments.
66 From high fashion to hautehorlogerie, the rules of fashion
are constantly evolving andalways fascinating.

Spa Life

68 At Spa Village Resort Tembok,
Bali, medicinal traditions such as
jamu and boreh that show thenatural path to vibrant health.

Life of Luxury

78 Founder of the boutiquewatchmaking company MB&F
famed for its Horological
Machines, the Geneva-based
Maximilian Büsser reveals to
YTL Life, the books and musicthat have inspired him to takethe path less taken.

Life Time

80 There is never a dull moment
during Geneva's Salon
International de la Haute
Horlogerie (SIHH). We present
the year’s horological highlights.

72 In an exclusive interview withYTL Life, Kerstin Florian andCharlene Florian Barker of thecult spa brand Kerstin Floriandiscuss their favourite spa
treatments and the futureof an industry that has
experienced phenomenal
growth in recent decades.

84 For all-encompassing style,indulge in the following lifestyleaccoutrements where superior
design meets to-the-moment
technology.

76 Add magic to your look in thisseason’s most enchanting hues
and fragrances.

86 YTL Life speaks to Eric Guth,general manager of Autodome
and Shook! at Shanghai Swatch

Life of Luxury

Art Peace Hotel, who oversees
the exciting restaurant and bar
concepts at YTL properties
both in Malaysia and abroad.
88 Presenting Starhill Gallery’s
latest culinary sensation –Gonbei San.

Life Moments

90 The sights and tastes of
Hokkaido are best enjoyedduring the summer months
when the area opens up to
visitors from near and far.

Portfolio of Life

100 Quiet, luxurious, discreet –three perfect excuses to visit
a YTL resort.

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Life Cuisine

My LifeYTL Life catches up with writer
Kathy Greenberg on her recent
visit to London for the premiereof her latest Elton John/Disneyanimation Gnomeo and Juliet.
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

5EXCLUSIVELY AT STARHILL GALLERY, F1-F3 EXPLORE FLOOR, 181 JALAN BUKIT BINTANG, 55100 KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIATEL : +603-2710 3803 FAX : +603-2710 3809 www.armanicasa.com

Editorial Team
Editorial Director
Izan Yusuff Wilson
Editor-in-Chief
Diana Khoo
Associate Editor
Mark Lean      

Art
T h e

Y T L

L u x u r y

M a g a z i n e

Creative Director
Eireen Ooi
Art Director
Sheila Cheah

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A Note fromTan Sri (Dr) Francis Yeoh
As the Muse Hôtel de Luxe in the South of France reopens towelcome spring, it is a signal to herald the French Riviera’s newsocial season. In just over a year, we are delighted to note that
this YTL Hotels property has established itself as a beautiful newface on the Saint-Tropez scene. Its M Restaurant is particularly
popular with the visiting jet set. Read how its chef, Nicolas Le
Toumelin honed his unique brand of cuisine, which the restaurant
is increasingly renowned for on page 14. Still on the subject offood, we are pleased to have welcomed world-renowned chef,
Martin Yan, as he travelled through Kuala Lumpur recently.
Guests at our properties around the world might also havenoticed exciting new music filtering through the public
spaces. This special soundtrack represents a synergisticcollaboration between YTL Hotels’ music specialist Gavin
Aldred and celebrated Hollywood composer Michael
Brook who was responsible for the soundtracks of
the Oscar winners The Fighter and documentary An
Inconvenient Truth, amongst others.

Tan Sri (Dr) Francis Yeoh
Managing Director
YTL Corporation

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On a daily basis, we are fed news on how the planet
is in turmoil: strings of natural disasters happening allover the world and stories of countries facing drought
and famine. As a concerted effort to highlight theseenvironmental issues, YTL Corporation recently
held concurrent Earth Hour events at the group’s
properties around the world that brought home akey point: as stewards of this earth, it is our duty
to protect and to conserve the world’s resources
for the generations that follow. We aim to do
our part in spreading the green message. We
hope each and everyone does likewise.

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life on the cover //life on the cover //Tropezian
Chic
Celebrate the season of style at thesleek Muse Hôtel de Luxe, which is
set to reopen this April.

Situated on the Ramatuelle ‘route de plages’ road and nestledwithin a beguiling landscape of terraced gardens, the elegant
retreat comprises 15 impressive suites (10 with private pools)
overlooking the magnificent landscaped gardens. This dreamsetting is just minutes from Saint-Tropez Place de Lices,considered as one of the world’s most stylish epicentres.

123(1-5; 7) Aspects ofMuse Hôtel de Luxethat personify an ultra
chic lifestyle;(6) One of the many
private yachts docked
in Saint-Tropez harbour.

Each of the 15 luxuriously appointed suites, designed as a
private residence, has a private garden. 10 suites feature
swimming pools affording a sense of privacy. The interiorsof each suite are set in warm, creamy off-white and beige
tones and subdued lighting while in-suite massage
tables set the perfect ambience for the most restfultherapies. The spacious suites can also be transformed
into party areas for guests to entertain and indulge infine wines from the in-suite private wine cabinet whilerelaxing by their private pool.

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While each suite is characteristically individual in theirdecor and ambience, all share cool French stone
flooring, mamorino wall finishes and stylish cool
furnishings. Exclusive retro-chic furniture madeto-order and carved by the Henryot Company
is reminiscent of the elegant exuberance of
the Art Deco period, but softened with fine,sensuous materials like linen, cotton and silk, all
by Pierre Frey.

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life on the cover //life on the cover //Breton-born Chef Nicolas Le Toumelin is in his element when
discussing one of his great passions in life —the freshest seafood
prepared in the traditional French style. These standout creations
at M Restaurant, the flagship dining room of the Muse Hôtel deLuxe in Saint-Tropez, are flavoured by a bounty of locally sourced
herbs and condiments. In a little less than a year, his signature
dishes at M Restaurant—together with his bubbly personality—have won him admirers amongst Saint-Tropez’s beau mondeand the international jet set such as actress Michelle Yeoh andactor Olivier Martinez.
“The past year was an exciting time for us at M Restaurant.
Within that short span of time, we have become accepted aspart of the Saint-Tropez scene. In fact, as a hotel restaurant,
M’s immense success is something we can all be proud of,”says the beaming 33-year-old chef.
What are the signature flavours at M Restaurant?
I have divided the flavours into seafood and truffle-basedmenus. In terms of flavour, I am trying to achieve tastes thatare as natural as possible. I source fish from small villages
in the region and in Brittany. In terms of products from
Provence, I make the most of flavours and ingredients likeolive oil, lemon as well as fresh herbs like basil and thyme. I
have also designed a menu with Chef Clement Bruno, whobases his entire menu on truffles. So we have signature
dishes like potato and truffles cream. We also bake atruffle-based pastry with foie gras and sliced pickles.

The  Tasteof Summer
As the Muse Hôtel de Luxe reopens this April for the 2011 season,
Chef Nicolas Le Toumelin of its M Restaurant, lets us in on the simple
elegance of his cuisine.

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What are your favourite seasonal ingredients?
I have been working in many restaurants over the past
15 years. And I tend to base my cuisine around seafood.
As the hotel is open during the summer, I use productsthat are available during that period of time, such as
aubergine and ripe juicy tomatoes. The cuisine is quite
light; it’s not heavy. People in the South of France arealways health-conscious, always careful about what
they eat.
Do you have any culinary inspirations?
London-based chef, Pascal Proyart, taught me all I
know about preparing seafood. He showed mevarious techniques as well as imparted me with thelove of creating the finest fish dishes. He continues tobe a true inspiration for me.
When Muse Hôtel de Luxe and the M Restaurant
reopens this April, what specialties have youin store?
I have picked a small selection, around 20% of thesame dishes I had on the menu last year. There is
the Andalucia gazpacho, a light soup with a lot of
spice mixed with king crab from Alaska. I will keep
the black ink risotto with cod. I will also produce

Top: Sesame tuna tartar withpoached quail egg
Bottom: Black cod withsquid ink risotto with a white
tomato emulsion

new dishes with sea bream and lobster. Last year, we did notfeature any pasta dishes on the menu. But, there is a demand
amongst diners at the restaurant for such dishes, so this year,
lobster pasta will be on the menu.
Do you think there is a culinary trend that signals a return totraditional flavours?
There have always been basic ideas and concepts related toFrench cooking that cannot be avoided, and if you try to avoid
them, those very ideas will come back to you [in a variety of ways].
For instance, our clientele at the M Restaurant has a penchant fortraditional French cuisine, so we work to refine tastes and flavours,
while making the most of the region’s freshest and most delectable
ingredients.
What is your view of fusion cuisine?
When I lived in London about 10 years ago, there was a big fusion
cuisine wave taking place. The city is very cosmopolitan. There wasa huge connection between Thai, Japanese and Italian cuisines
and some chefs began to create fusion dishes. To some extent,
I found this interesting, but I also found it to be slightly dangerous
as it takes a long time, a lot of effort and immeasurable technique
to be an expert in fusion cuisine. There are some things I believe
should be worked on but I am not a believer of fusion cuisine.
My style remains decidedly French. But, naturally, I have in myrepertoire of Asian dishes. Since joining YTL Hotels & Resorts, I
have incorporated several dishes from Kuala Lumpur, such as
Shook!’s legendary Dancing Prawns which has been equally wellreceived in Saint-Tropez.

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life feature //19th century home called La Villa California,
overlooking the Mediterranean.

Marc Chagall (1887-1985)

One of the most famous Russian-Jewish
artists, Marc Chagall was a fiercely
independent visual and stained glass artist,
rejecting the intellectualism of Cubism andthe realist style that had besieged his
peers, and instead, veering to surrealism
to depict joy. His love for life was rediscovered when he moved to Saint Paulde Vence in 1950, following the deathof his wife. The master’s appreciation forvibrant hues was sharpened following
commissions to create the stained glass
windows at Saint Paul. His works werecolourful, dreamlike and included elementsof Russian folk art, icon painting, scripturesand fantastical characters.

Clockwise right: Henri Matisse’s Fauteuil Rocaille, 1946, at
Matisse Museum Nice; Matisse Museum; Artist Armand Pierre
Fernandez in his studio; Museum of Fine Arts in Nice.

Raoul Dufy (1877-1953)

This side ofaradiseFor over a century, the Côte d’Azur or the French
Riviera has been the epicentre of style, and culture
for aristocrats, artists and celebrities. Experience
these artistic inspirations on a personalised
journey showcasing some of the world’s mostexquisite works of art.
Text by Noelle Lim

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Attracted to and drawn in by the light, thevivid colours and the phenomenal vistasof the Mediterranean coastline, some of
the finest artists in history have discovered
their muses in that inspiring locale. They
include, amongst others, individuals like
Pierre Auguste-Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Henri
Matisse and Marc Chagall and their modern
art successors –César, Yves Klein, Arman,
and Niki de St-Phalle. The incandescentlandscape provided the perfect setting
for these artists to exchange ideas, andunearth a new appreciation of colours.
Some of their greatest and most expensive
works were produced during these days
and evenings spent in South of France.

Pierre Auguste-Renoir(1841-1919)
Pierre Auguste-Renoir relocated to Cagnussur-Mer to experience the warmer weather
and spent his last 12 years there. By then,he had established himself as a master of
Impressionism and some of his greatest
works were produced before his moveto this region.  11   of his paintings andsculptures in his private collection andpersonal items remain housed in the villawhere he lived. Renoir was also a mentor
to Matisse and helped sharpen the latter’s
focus on colours, and most importantly,

encouraged him to push the boundaries
of art.

Henri Matisse (1869-1954)

Often hailed as one of the most important
French painters of the 20th century,
Henri Matisse was famous for being theringleader of the Fauvist movement thatbroke away from Impressionism. Matisse
had experimented with different styles,
from Impressionism to abstraction, but
his move to the French Riviera in 1905
to recover from bronchitis was a pivotal
point in his career. It was here he decided
to abandon three-dimensional effect for
simplified pure colours, flat shape andstrong patterns, a style where he felt hefound his calling.

Pablo Picasso (1881-1973)

Spanish artist Pablo Picasso had gained
fame and notoriety before he moved to
the South of France where he continued
living the high life. When in Vallauris GolfeJuan in 1947, he developed an interestin ceramic, and produced over 4000of them at his Fournas workshop. He
also lived in Château Grimaldi, now
converted to become the National Picasso
Museum in Antibes, before settlingin Cannes in the 1950s where heestablished his studio in a sumptuous

Nice-born Raoul Dufy is most famousfor his colourful and exuberant Frenchlandscapes painted in the Fauvism style,characterised by distinctive black lines,
skeletal structures and thin washes ofcolours. His works, ranging from cheerfulscenes of peasants in the market tofashionable people at chic parties, can beseen in La Foire Aux Oignons (1907) soldby Sotheby’s in 2007 for US$8,027,012,
and Fete A Sainte-Adresse (1906) sold in2004 for US$3,144,000.

Yves Klein (1928-1962)

Despite a relatively short career of a mere
eight years, Yves Klein, a Nice-born artist iscredited for being an early post-modernist
who straddled the period from modern art’s
pre-occupation with material objects to theconceptual rigour of contemporary art. A
charismatic showman, he identified himself
as “the painter of space”. Like other artists
who come from South France, he had aheightened sense of colour, and exploredspirituality and aesthetics using pure colour
and performance. His most famous works
include monochromatic gold and intense
ultramarine blue paint elements, referred to as
International Klein Blue (IKB). At a Sotheby’s
auction in 2008, his work MG9 Gold Leaf on
Panel (1962), a monochromatic gold painting,
was reportedly acquired by Francois Pinault,
head of the luxury conglomerate PPR, for therecord price of US$ 23,561,000.

On the art trail
The art trail along the French Riviera
begins at Vence to Saint-Jean-CapFerrat, including Cagnes-sur-Mer
and Nice.
Renoir; Renoir Museum, Chemin desCollettes, Cagnes-sur-Mer.
Tel: +33 04 9320 6107
Picasso: National Picasso Museum,Place de la liberation, Vallauris.
Tel: +33 04 9364 7183;
Château Grimaldi, Antibes.
Tel: +33 04 9290 5420;
André Villers Photography Museum,Mougins.
Matisse: Rosary Chapel, 466 Avenue
Henri-Matisse, Cagnes-sur-Mer.
Tel: +33 04 9358 0326;
Villa Le Rêve, 261 Avenue HenriMatisse, Cagnes-sur-Mer.
Tel: +33 04 9358 8268;
164 Avenue des Arènes de Cimiez,
Nice. Tel: +33 04 9381 0808
Series of Biblical Messages; Marc
Chagall Museum, Docteur Ménard,
Nice. Tel: +33 04 9353 8720;
guided tours retracing the footstepsof Chagall to art studios in Saint Paulde Vence.
Information is available at Tourism
Office Saint Paul de Vence, 2 rue
Grande, Saint-Paul.
Tel: +33 04 9332 8695
Raoul Dufy’s works together with thework of Jules Chéret, can be viewed
at The Museum of Fine Arts 33 Avenue des Baumettes, Nice.
Tel: +33 04 9215 2828
Yves Klein’s abstract works are at
The Modern and Contemporary
Art Museum, Promenade des Arts,
cedex 4 Nice.
Tel: + 33 04 9713 4201
mamac-nice.org

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life events //YTLCelebrates Earth
Hour 2011
Across the globe, 36 YTL subsidiaries andproperties in Malaysia - Power Seraya andWisma Atria, Singapore; Wessex Water, United
Kingdom as well as the Green Leaf Niseko
Village in Hokkaido, Japan - participated in the
global celebration of Earth Hour 2011.

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This page: Scenes from YTL Corporation’s Earth Hour celebrations at theirproperties in Malaysia, Singapore, Japan and the United Kingdom. 1. Ruth
Yeoh (second from right), Executive Director of YTL Singapore, mark Earth Hourwith friends and associates. 2. Earth Hour is celebrated in Kuala Lumpur, along
the popular retail strip of Jalan Bukit Bintang. 3. Celebrities like Henry Golding
and Deborah Priya Henry turned up as a show of support.

This year, YTL Corporation continued its support for Earth Hour, which took place on
Saturday, 26 March 2011, by extending the symbolic hour of darkness from the initial 60
minutes to 90 minutes. The event was a combined effort to urge residents in cities like
Kuala Lumpur and Singapore to participate in the largest global collective effort designed
to send a decisive message of hope and action. It was estimated that based on a mere
15 properties in Malaysia and Singapore turning off their electricity supply from 8.30pm to
10pm, YTL Corporation cut over 1,298 kg of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to almost
1,000 working days of computer usage.
“Earth Hour stands for what we’ve been passionately advocating over the last decade –environmental protection, energy efficiency and contribution to sustainable development.
This year’s Earth Hour holds greater meaning and relevance with the crisis happening
in Japan so we are ramping up efforts to raise donations for the quake victims. While
we’ve pioneered and celebrated Earth Hour in Malaysia since 2009 and led numerous
climate change initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region, this is the first time YTL is presenting
a street event to mark Earth Hour in Singapore,” said Ruth Yeoh, Executive Director of
YTL Singapore and Director at YTL-SV Carbon, YTL’s in-house carbon credit and Clean
Development Mechanism (CDM) consultancy.

1

Yeoh adds, “As stewards of our Good Earth, we are very excited to have this opportunity toshare our experiences in climate change with the nation. Beyond Earth Hour, YTL has always
been a strong supporter of WWF and its initiatives. We had the privilege of partnering WWF
in our green efforts previously, supporting a US$100,000 grant towards the protection of
Malaysia’s most precious resources through the YTL-WWF tiger conservation programme
in Malaysia.”
Present during the Earth Hour 2011 event at Wisma Atria, Singapore was Tanjong Pagar
GRC MP Baey Yam Keng, YTL Singapore Executive Director Ruth Yeoh, Orchard Road
Business Association (ORBA) Chairman Sng Ngoi May, and model and internationalcelebrity Denise Keller, who is an advisory member for The Climate Project, a non-profit
social enterprise headed by former United States Vice President Al Gore.

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life events //8This page: YTL Corporation celebrates Earth Hour with events at their properties in Kuala Lumpur andSingapore. Activities included live entertainment, dining by candlelight and special performances.

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life bites //YTL’s newest events, attractions and not-to-be-missed experiences

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Diving and snorkelling are amongst themost popular activities at Tanjong Jara
Resort which is located on Malaysia’s
east coast. During the months of Marchtill October, avid divers from around theworld converge on Pulau Tenggol, abeautiful and secluded island just a 45minute boat ride away from the mainland.
A designated protected zone, the areaaround Pulau Tenggol presents a vastvariety of colourful marine life ranging
from double-headed parrotfish, yellowtail
fusiliers and sea turtles, to eagle rays,
black-tipped reef sharks and barracudas.

In a continuation of the Oracle, a mind,
body and spirit retreat held at the Spa
Village Resort Tembok, Bali recently, a
new facilitator specialising in specificholistic modalities is introduced to guests
at the resort each month. In April, Nicky
Kassapian, an advanced craniosacral
therapist, Usui reiki master, practitioner
and a personal coach, is on hand tooffer her expertise, followed by Aditi, thecreator of a meditation technique known
as NowSpace, who will teach guests
the power of living in the moment andovercoming the various sources of stressin one’s life in May.

In keeping with Cameron Highland’scolonial heritage, afternoon tea is servedat the Jim Thompson Tea Room in
Cameron Highlands Resort. A delicious
assortment of finger sandwiches, sweetand savoury pastries and warm, delicious
scones are presented with Devonshireclotted cream and homemade strawberryjam. Indulge in these tea time treatsin an elegant setting where the finest
Jim Thompson fabrics and furnishings
recreate the genteel atmosphere of
an English colonial home – the perfectvenue for a cosy afternoon retreat.

When night falls and the sky reveals
a plethora of stars that are seemingly
close enough to grasp, a unique event
takes place at the Spa Village Resort
Tembok, Bali. The resort offers a oneof-a-kind treatment where guests
lie weightless on a floating platform
set adrift on the swimming pool.
A specially selected soundtrack
developed by NASA for astronauts intraining is the ideal complement to thisstress-relieving therapy. Stargazing on a
moonlit night at the resort is a not-to-bemissed experience.

Spring is traditionally known as theseason for rejuvenation and optimism.
This April, Starhill Gallery showcases thefinest things that life has to offer spanningfashion, cuisine, luxury and sustainable
lifestyles as well as luxury getaways. A
series of exciting events are planned in
the next few months, amongst which
includes "A Feast of Spring" specialties
that make the most of the freshest
seasonal ingredients and finest flavours
by the international restaurants locatedat Starhill Gallery.

Dive Season Returns

About the Oracle

Tea is Served

The Stars are Shining

Spring at Starhill Gallery

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Wedded Bliss

Fairy tales do come true at Tanjong Jara
Resort where a “Royal Wedding” package
promises an unforgettable experience forboth the happy couple and a hundred
guests. Couples may choose to wed ina variety of novel ways such as holding
an undersea ceremony at Pulau Tenggol,
in a garden wedding setting with abeautifully manicured lawn adorned with
fairy lights under a softly draped gazebo
on the beach or amidst a romantic
setting of glowing lanterns by Teratai
Terrace with the beats of a traditional
gamelan playing softly in the background.

For more information on YTL Hotels’ events and promotions, go to www.ytlhotels.com

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View of life //Toursof Duty
Meet Captain Mokh, a man witha military past whose present
mission as Tanjong Jara Resort’s
resident naturalist is to introduce
guests to nature’s many wonders.
Text by Helen Oon

Captain Mokh (short for ‘Mokhtar’), Tanjong Jara Resort’s resident
naturalist, has a commute to work quite unlike that of any city
slicker. Instead of braving smog and gridlocked city streets, hemakes strides on his vehicle of choice, a trusty bicycle, whichmeanders along almost deserted coastal roads fringed by coconut
trees swaying in the breeze brought in by the South China Sea. The
picturesque environs surrounding the resort, located in the state ofTerengganu on Malaysia’s east coast, resembles a quintessential
Malay kampong or village. Here, Captain Mokh is in his element.
Amidst well-manicured gardens and beautiful casuarina trees thathave stood the tests of time and storms, the erstwhile army captainguides an assortment of resort guests through the best nature
pursuits available in and around the resort.
Bright and early at 7.30am, Captain Mokh conducts a workout
with a difference – a specially created exercise class known as
Indera Deria, a cross-cultural combination of yoga, tai chi and silat(a traditional form of Malay martial arts). The morning class takes
place by the resort's electric blue-hued infinity pool, described

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by the good captain as a potent spot to soak up the restorative
powers of water and sun. After just one session, guests may noticea significant surge in energy levels, setting a bright, optimistic moodfor the rest of the day.
Another way to break into a sweat is to join the daily bicycle tour tothe local village. Take a trip through rustic wooden houses inhabitedby friendly locals or head to the market, the village’s social andcommercial heart. Sample delicious fare such as Terengganu’s
famed deep-fried fish crackers, known as keropok lekor, besteaten with a deliciously spicy and sweet homemade chilli sauce. A
man who knows the area like the back of his hand, Captain Mokh
delivers an engaging running commentary, providing guests withinvaluable insider knowledge of the locale.

Clockwise: Captain Mokh at Tanjong Jara Resort;indigenous flora and fauna seen on the nature walk.

For nature lovers, a trek into the hinterland with Captain Mokh ishighly recommended and thoroughly enjoyable. The walk starts
with a tour of his much-loved herb garden filled with medicinal
plants and herbs. This is followed by a short walk to Jara Hill where
Captain Mokh impresses his charge with in-depth knowledge of
traditional Malay holistic therapies. These effective local healing
techniques have, for centuries, made use of the medicinal
properties of local flora and fauna to cure both topical and externalailments. For the adventurous, after a hearty breakfast at the resort,an adrenalin rush-filled expedition to the 250-metre Cemerung
Waterfall –an hour-long trek into remote jungle regions –is a great
opportunity to work up an appetite.
An expedition by fishing boat organised by Captain Mokh, on theother hand, snakes up the Marang River, traverses mangrove
territory, and culminates by arriving at a small tucked away village.
Along the way, visitors have front-row views of the local wildlife
performing, as if on cue. Amongst the actors include cheeky
macaques, soaring sea eagles, vibrantly hued kingfishers, andmonitor lizards in military camouflage.
The expedition calls at Kampong Jenang, a village seemingly
unspoilt by time. Here, women still weave traditional baskets andmats, while palm sugar, an essential ingredient in Malay cakes
and desserts, is the local cottage industry. “My aim is to give theguests the opportunity to experience and observe the Malay village
lifestyle in the very heartland of Malay culture on the east coast,”
says the friendly Captain Mokh.

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View of life //The Tanjong Jara Experience
Heaven is only seven steps away at Tanjong
Jara Resort, a resort with an almost
infinite stretch of golden shoreline, and amagnificent tropical garden fringed by apristine rainforest. The resort is tranquillity
personified. It is the perfect setting toexperience the Way of Sucimurni, the Malay
spa philosophy, comprising wholesome
living practices achieved through the “purityof spirit, health and wellbeing”. Dedicatedto the “sacred centre of life force energy”,
Spa Village Tanjong Jara offers a total
holistic lifestyle experience. This includes
a series of pampering massages, healing
therapies, engaging activities and cuisine
tailor-crafted to the individual’s needs in aseven-day programme known as Syurga
Tujuh or the Seven Steps to Heaven. The
numerous benefits of each session include
chakra alignment, chi balancing andstress reduction, in other words, complete
relaxation. www.tanjongjararesort.com

More on Captain Mokh

Affectionately known as Captain Mokh, Captain (retired)
Ahmad Mokhtar Mohamad’s passion for and knowledge of thewild was sparked during his career in the military. He joined
the army in 1965, and was commissioned in Sandhurst,
England as a military officer. Later, he joined the Malaysia
Special Forces and rose to the rank of captain. It was at thistime that he was seconded to the Special Task Force that
dealt with the communist insurgency in West Malaysia andSarawak, Borneo. As an undercover agent, Captain Mokh
was sent to live with the Batek aboriginal tribe in the jungle
around the Taman Negara area for three years. There, hekept the communist forces under surveillance and gathered
intelligence about issues concerning national security. In thismost remote of regions, he was accepted by the tribe whotaught him the secrets of the forest including the vast curative
properties of medicinal and edible plants. As the guardians of
the forest, the Batek tribe believes that everything in nature
should be respected. “The Batek tribe was very suspiciousof outsiders. At first they were wary of my presence but astime went by, I was gradually accepted into their community.
I felt privileged to learn from them. They taught me to see,touch and discover the traditional value of plants,” explains
Captain Mokh.
When he retired from the army in 1996, he became an
instructor at an outward bound school. He went on to open
and operate Tasik Chini Resort and later managed the Marang
Resort & Safari Recreational Centre before joining Tanjong
Jara Resort back in 2002. “As the resident naturalist, mydaily tasks are to liaise with guests, bringing life to the resort’s“Unmistakably Malay” concept. We organise activities for ourguests to immerse themselves in the culture and heritage ofTerengganu,” he remarks enthusiastically, before adding, “Iwant to develop a special programme and activities for children
since we have been getting more and more children at theresort. The objective of programme is to expose them to thebeauty and value of nature by their participation in the many
activities available. We organise trips to the Elephant Sanctuary
at Tasik Kenyir. I would like to share my knowledge withother people, especially to the younger generation. They are
the future guardians of the forests”.

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Clockwise: A pristine stretch of beach; two examples of exotic plants
growing in the wild.

“My aim is to givethe guests theopportunity toexperience andobserve the Malay
village lifestyle inthe very heartlandof Malay culture on
the east coast.”
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life feature //Action-packed
NisekoAs the perfect all-weather holiday destination,
Japan's Niseko Village offers a wealth of activities
for the adventure-inclined.
Text by Catherine ShawAs the winter snows slowly melt, Japan’s
premier ski destination of Niseko Village– long known for its deep powdery snow,
groomed mountain slopes, and pictureperfect landscape – trades stylish ski
suits and snowboards for all things‘green’ as it transforms itself into a highly
desirable summer outdoor getaway. The
reinvention is even more impressive when
one considers how, instead of restingon its well-earned laurels as a winterwonderland par excellence, the popular
alpine retreat has successfully unveiled
a tantalising portfolio of all-season
activities ranging from the sedate to thedecidedly adventurous.
Niseko’s stunning natural landscape makes
for a truly spectacular setting for Japan’s
most popular fine weather activity: golf.
The pièce de résistance is the 6,805
yard 18-hole, Par 72 Niseko Golf Course,

designed by international golfing legend
Arnold Palmer. The course, which enjoys
wonderful views of Mt Yotei, is considered
one of the most difficult and strategic
courses in the area featuring well-placed
bunkers and stunning rolling fairways,
including the famously challenging Par 3
fifth hole (an undulating green guarded by apond and guard bunker).
Nearby, the Niseko Village Golf Course
offers variety of play at different levels; thePar 73 18-hole course at 6,845 yards is
set within the stunning forest at the baseof the ski resort, one of Hokkaido’s mostpanoramic mountain landscapes. Worldstandard facilities, a challenging layout
and perfectly manicured greens with
fairways separated by white birch andlarch that change with the seasons – notto mention one of the few Par 6 holes in
the world (the 10th measures 721 yards,

This page: Golf, adventurebiking and tree-treking areamong the summer activities
offered at Niseko.

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life feature //out of bounds down the left side andwith water in front of the green) make thiscourse a firm favourite among local andinternational players

Organic Temptations
Despite Niseko’s transformation into
an international travel destination, thelocal population remains predominately
focused on farming as can be seen fromdisplays of fresh vegetables at local farm
shops bearing named photographs of theproud farmers – the excellent produce
easily rivals the famed Niseko snow. The
region is justifiably famous for its delicious
carrots, asparagus and potatoes. During
summer months, a visit to a local organic
farm, vineyard or to Milk Kobo, a farming
cooperative known for their milky ice cream
and creamy cheesecakes made from Niseko
milk, is already a must on any gourmand’s
travel itinerary.

GETTING THERE
The nearest airport to Niseko is Sapporo’s
New Chitose Airport with direct flights
between most major domestic andinternational airports. The flight from Tokyo(Haneda) is around 90 minutes. Niseko
is about 2 hours by car and 3.5 hours bytrain from New Chitose Airport.

For beginners, Hilton Niseko Village’s driving
range and two full-sized practice golf holes
offer a stress-free opportunity to practicetheir golf skills. The 506-room iconic hotelwith five world class restaurants is locatedat the very epicentre of outdoor activities,,which include a 23-court tennis complex,a horseback riding park and outdoor
adventure activities for young guests.
But it is not just stressed urbanites andgolfers who are revelling in Niseko’ssummer attractions. The destination is also
now more child-friendly with a wide choiceof activities that makes it a firm favourite withfamilies. At Niseko Village Pure Action, tree
trekking is one of the most popular draws –an entire walkway structure was handmade
by Pure staff using natural materials, logs
and wood from the Niseko Village grounds.
Routes include suspended wooden bridges
and ladders and hanging features made ofrope. Descending from the routes is via
ziplines. There is a simple route speciallydesigned for beginners and smaller children
with a second, more challenging version
for older or more adventurous trekkers.
Participants are always safely harnessed.

active play by children or adults. A rangeof other exciting outdoor activities suchas horseback riding, white water rafting,paragliding, hot air ballooning, mountainbiking, volleyball, nature walking, mountainhiking and a soon-to-be-launched golf
program for children means there isenough choice to keep even the mostactive entertained.
For the culturally inclined, there is plenty
on offer: from traditional Niseko sake,sweets, the tea ceremony, Japanese taiko
drums and learning how to cook Japanese
food. Indoor classes include jam andice-creaming-making classes, pottery
and silver and hemp accessory classes.
Alternatively, join renowned local glass artist
Tsuneo Kitajima to design and make yourown glassware pattern at Glass Gallery
Doumu as a memento of your visit.
For those looking to relax, Niseko is home
to Japan’s other favourite activity: soaking in
hot spring waters. The mineral-rich watersof the Hilton Niseko Village and Green Leaf
Niseko Village indoor and outdoor onsens
offer an exceptional opportunity to indulge
in this timeless retreat while taking in thestunning mountain landscape.

Arnold Palmer Golf
Arnold Palmer has created about 300
golf courses around the world, winning
numerous awards for designs of golfthat blend technical excellence with ahigh respect for nature. Palmer says,“I believe in traditional, straightforward
design that produces courses withlasting quality that are exciting andenjoyable for all players. The designs
are founded on the principles andstrategies of the game and are sensitive
to the land and the environment.”

Obon
Although summer in Niseko is relatively
uncrowded, book well ahead during theObon holiday (usually in mid-August)as harried Tokyoites stream north toescape summer in the city.

Niseko Village Pure Action also features
a huge inflated outdoor adventure park
where inflated landing pads encourage safe
exploration of climbing walls, a trampoline,
a high wire and elevated swings ideal for

Top: Horeseback ridding
Bottom: The entrance to Niseko Village Pure Action

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Right: White water rafting is a popular activity
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my life //LuxuryFrequencies
Introducing a designer playlist of tracks createdexclusively by YTL’s very own music man Gavin Aldred.

“Music is thesense thatmost hotels
neglect” explains
Aldred, “but it
makes a huge
difference to
one’s perceptionof a place.”

After 10 months working around the clock across several time zones and between studios
in Los Angeles and London on a marathon project for YTL Hotels, Gavin Aldred is looking
relaxed but also a little relieved. His company, Soundcells, specialises in creating exclusive
music for hotels, upmarket stores, private clubs, luxury brands, and advertisers around theworld. “Creating 24 hours of original music was a tall order” he recalls.
Commissioned in late 2009 by YTL Hotels, the project was an inspired leap of faith to extend
the “treasured moments” theme of the hotels into “treasured sounds”. “Music is the sense thatmost hotels neglect” explains Aldred “but it makes a huge difference to one’s perception of aplace. While each YTL property is deliberately individual and unique, they all share common
values of quality and service, with a real sense of caring for the guests and going that extra mile
to provide not just a happy stay but also happy memories of the stay. Music is a part of thatmagic of memory.”
After much debate, they decided to concentrate their efforts on 3 key areas: reception, pool, andspa. “I constantly travel the world staying in hotels so I think I have a real sense of what a guest
wants” says Aldred. “For example in the reception areas we wanted music that contributes to acalm atmosphere and helps orientate the guest, particularly new arrivals. It’s a stressful moment,
arriving in a new place and not knowing your way around. We wanted to slow things down a little
and make checking-in a pleasure. These first impressions literally set the tone of the whole stay”.
Similar analysis was applied to the psychology of guests in the spa and pool areas. One element
was the tempo of the music. In the spa areas it is never faster than the resting rate of a humanheart, around sixty beats per minute. “This helps people relax and chill-out” Aldred explains. Thisattention to detail is evident everywhere, for example in reception the frequencies of the soundare carefully calibrated by Soundcells mixing engineers so as not to interfere with the normal
frequencies of the human voice, allowing easy communication between staff and customer.
With access to some of the best composers, musicians, and technical recording staff in theworld in LA, it’s no surprise that YTL’s new sounds are peppered with contributions from wellknown names such as British diva Julia Fordham and Hollywood movie composer Michael
Brook, who acted as a music advisor on the YTL project whilst he was busy composing thesoundtrack to the Oscar-nominated film The Fighter starring Mark Wahlberg.

YTL’s very own music man Gavin Aldred.

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Plans are underway to launch a range of CD’s exclusive to YTL Hotels under the “Treasured
Sounds” label. “This is a great way to take a little of the magic of your stay home with you – it’s
not just great new music - it’s your YTL memory”.
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life feature //life feature //Cuisine Sans
Frontieres

Despite being on international television for over 30 years and with3,000 (and counting) television cooking shows, several best-sellingcook books and millions of fans across the globe, to his credit, Chef
Martin Yan, the first Asian to successfully break into the US mainstream
media, remains irrepressibly enthusiastic over sharing his love andknowledge of Chinese food.
Text By Diana Khoo Photography by Mohd Jabir Suhirlan Location Li Yen, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.

Always armed with wit, humour and a bagful of tricks, the image ofMartin Yan executing his lightning-fast cleaver chop or his acrobatic
flair with a pair of chopsticks and a hot wok has been seared
into the culinary consciousness of millions of viewers around theworld who, for the past 30 years now, never tire of tuning in to hisbrand of creative (and entertaining) Chinese cookery. His favourite
party trick is demonstrating how to debone a chicken in just 18
seconds while endlessly chatting and regaling his audiences withjokes and anecdotes. “My main aim has always been to show
people that cooking, especially Chinese cooking, can be a lot offun,” he says. “Everyone’s always happy. No one’s ever told meotherwise all these years. Maybe it’s because I’m the guy with theknife,” Yan wisecracks.
In Kuala Lumpur recently to promote his 8 Treasures of China tour
with the Asian Food Channel, Chef Yan took time out to speak to
YTL Life on his love of food and cooking and how it has enriched
and flavoured his life and career so beautifully.

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When did you first become interested in cooking?
When I was growing up, even basic provisions like oil andfabric were always rationed and I went to bed hungry mosttimes. I lived on the third floor of an apartment block in
Guangzhou, China, and I remember telling my neighborhood
buddies how when I grew up, I wanted to be a cook or workin a factory that produced food, figuring you’d never go hungry
if you worked in a kitchen. That is also the reason why manypoor Chinese families always want their sons to become
apprentice chefs.
You were also the first Asian to make it big in American
mainstream media.
Things just happened. My friend Frank Lee had asked me to help
set up his restaurant, Lee’s Garden, in Calgary, Canada. And as
fate would have it, I got invited to be a guest on a television program.
It was a disaster, though. It was winter and the temperature was-40C. I’d kept my groceries in the car and everything was frozen.

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life feature //This page, left-right: Siu mai withspicy tomato sauce; Chef Yan is
also a prolific cook book author;
fresh ingredients are a mark of
Chef Yan's cooking.

But they were nice enough to ask me to come back the next
week. Again, I had no experience but somehow, time flies in astudio and I had wanted to demonstrate five recipes but ran outof time. So I cheekily remarked I’d have to come back again next
week. The producers seemed to like my style, offered me a deal
and, I guess, that was the start of it all.
When did you realise you wanted to make a career outof cooking?
I was a sponsored foreign student from Hong Kong and I began
looking for work the second day I arrived so I could have somepocket money. I’d initially found work in a restaurant as an assistantcook but decided to wait tables instead, thinking I’d make a bit
more with tips. I’d heard that there was a lady named Madam Wu
who owned a successful restaurant and taught cooking classes
as well. When I found out she charged USD18 per hour for theclasses, it seemed a fortune compared to the 65 cents I was
earning. So, I went back to the University of California, Davis,
where I was studying, and asked if I could teach cooking lessons.

I’d even come up with a fancy name – The History, Culture &Science of Chinese Cuisine. I know I didn’t have any experienceat all but I wanted to try. It helped the campus coordinators werealso sympathetic as I told them I’d have to return to Hong Kong
if I didn’t find the means to continue funding my education. So,
we came to an agreement that if I could get 15 students, I had
a class. So, I put up a paper on the notice board and just willed
it to happen. I ended up with 36 names and had to split theminto two classes. My English wasn’t great so I asked them towatch my movements, which probably accounts for a lot of mydramatics now, and, in the end, I made enough to get myself
through graduate school – all by teaching cooking!
What have been your greatest career highlights, though? I
mean, you’ve hosted over 3000 shows to date, broadcasted
all over the world.
Honestly, every day is a highlight. I’m a curious kind of guy and
I’m always thankful I’m alive and able to see and experience somuch, not to mention so many new things to learn and discover. I

remember once being in Lijiang, an ancient town in Yunnan whose
history dates back at least 800 years, while taping my Hidden
China series. I had wanted a different story angle so I went to livewith this family, with four generations living under one roof andwhose patriarch was an 87-year-old woman. One day, she, her
two sisters and a few neighbours all put on their carrying baskets
and took me out for a trek. They were all in their 70s at least andhiked up the hill, singing all the way, while I could barely breathe!
Remember, Lijiang sits at an altitude of around 8,000 feet above
sea level. It then dawned on me how you really don’t need muchto be happy. These women didn’t even have electricity. They only
had candles and kerosene lamps and yet were so happy and fullof life. I then vowed to learn to be like them. To live life simply andto enjoy every day as it comes. That’s why I can tell you every day
is a highlight for me. It’s ultimately all about attitude.
What do you love most about your work?
I really love what I do, being able to inspire people to cook at
home. I enjoy myself and derive great satisfaction from being

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able to make people happy and impact lives. But if my televisionseries were to end tomorrow, I’d still feel as if I’d done enough.
Fortunately, people still ask me to do things.
I’ve also heard you once acted in a movie called Rice
Rhapsody. What was the experience like?
I’ve actually acted in three movies in my career. I can’t act but I got
the chance to star opposite Sylvia Chang, a famous Taiwanese
actress, singer, writer and producer, in Rice Rhapsody. I enjoyed
the experience a great deal and actually created a lot of my own
movements and reworked much of my character’s script. I’m thesort of guy who just talks and talks and I absolutely cannot memorise
stuff. I like being spontaneous and I am a master of winging it!
What are the qualities you feel every good chef needs
to possess?
You definitely need a capacity to learn and to respect others.
Never ever think you don’t need to learn once you’re a master
chef. Stay humble.

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life feature //“Chinese culture has
a lot of virtues thatare tremendously
valuable to, not only
us Asians, but also
the world in general.”-Martin Yan-

What are your favourite kitchen tools to work with?
Any Asian kitchen needs a good, sharp knife. It also helps
to have a good wok and steamer. I even travel with my own
chopping board. I tend to work very fast so I do need to have myown knife as I am used to its weight and size. If not, I’d end up
cutting myself.
Where’s the farthest you’ve ever travelled for a good meal?
It would have to be the time I flew from New York to London fordinner. A friend of mine was actually doing some fundraising in
London and he’d asked me to come over. I was in NYC doing ashow for NBC at the time but I did fly in for the night. It was worth
it as I enjoyed a meal prepared by three master chefs, including
Jacques Pépin who, by the way, loves Asian food. I still remember
the dish he prepared - an amazing combination of quail with bread
stuffing and kai lan. Awesome!
With so many television shows, appearances, cook books
and new recipes, how do you organise yourself andyour kitchen?
Thankfully, I have a great team to back me up and make sure I
show up wherever I am supposed to be on time. In fact, I think
as long as I show up on time, they don’t really care. I don’t havean agent or manager, just three to four full-time, exceedingly
dedicated staff. This way, I can still retain some form of control
over my life.
Do you have any favourite ingredients to work with?
I love tofu and use it a lot. I also always have noodles in my fridge
as well as a bottle of XO sauce. You can use it with everything.
You’re no stranger to Malaysian food…
I love the street food of Malaysia! I love bak kut teh (herbal pork
rib soup) and laksa, which has so many different ingredients andflavours; oh, and Ipoh noodles. Malaysia’s flavours are just so
unique and explosive.
What’s your idea of comfort food?
When we were living in Guangzhou, we always kept a few
chickens in a cage. I remember how, on special occasions, mymother would take one of them, steam or serve it in a casserole,
dressed with Chinese sausages and shitake mushrooms. It was
truly a dish of my childhood and a true comfort food for me.

Above: Deep-frying Yin Yang vegetable pockets.
Opposite: Chef Yan at a cooking demostration organised by
the Asian Food Channel at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.

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What is your favourite Chinese food and wine pairing,
though?
I think Chinese food, especially Cantonese, is excellent with wine.
I especially love the multi-course banquet meals, where you get allkinds of meat and vegetable dishes, sometimes up to 10 courses.

It’s a great way to pair wine with a variety of things. I do like sweetand sour dishes with a dry type of wine while Chablis goes
well with milder flavours or fish. And I enjoy pairing lobster with
Merlot or Pinot Noir as well and casserole dishes with Cabernet
Sauvignon – it makes it very rich and enjoyable. I also live justover an hour from the Napa Valley and graduated from University
California, Davis, which houses the Robert Mondavi Institute forFood and Wine Science. I think it’s got the best viticulture andoenology program in the world. But I must add that I enjoy saké
and Shaoxing wine as well.

Martin Yan’s Spring Rolls With
Spicy Avocado Dip
Ingredients

What, to you, would be the ultimate industry accolade?
Again, I’m happy and thankful for all that I’ve achieved but I do
remember when Julia Child wrote the introduction to one of mybooks, Chinatown Cooking. It was the first-ever introduction she’s
written for a cook book. When it was published, I drove to Santa
Barbara, where she lived, to personally deliver a copy. She loved
dim sum so I prepared some simple ones for her in her own
kitchen as well as lemon chicken, which she loved. That was avery special moment for me as she passed away just eight months
later. I’ve also met and cooked for several celebrities, includingBill Cosby and Jane Fonda. But what I really love is making myaudience laugh. If I can’t do that, I’ve failed.

3 peeled shrimps
2 slices cheese
3 sheets of spring roll wrapper
Salt
PepperDip
1 ripe avocado
2-3 bird’s eye chilli, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
Salt
Pepper

And what does your family think of all that you’ve achieved
so far?
I have twin boys, aged 18, going on 19. I’d always make them
help out whenever I had to do personal appearances and I’d joke:“You should be happy to help because your daddy’s famous.”
And they’d reply, ‘Yeah, well, there are so many other people livingon reservations and places like that and they probably don’t know
who you are.’ But, one day, I was doing a live event in a stadium
which attracted 45,000 people. It was then that my boys finallyadmitted their dad had an audience!

Method:1. Devein and poach the shrimps.
2. Grate the cheese (cheddar or cream cheese may be used) andmix with a little salt and pepper.
3. Wrap each shrimp with a little cheese around each springroll wrapper.
4. Deep-fry until golden brown and drain on paper towels.
5. Scoop out the avocado flesh and mash well. Season with lime
juice, chili and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve dip with spring rolls.

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s
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life feature //

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The chic world of stylish fine dining is alive and well in Shanghai at
Shook!, the city’s newest dining sensation due to be unveiled in late
April 2011. The innovative gourmet concept, which brings together atruly spectacular array of Asian and modern western cuisines in oneof the city’s most prestigious addresses on the famed Bund, is led
by renowned international celebrity chef Kevin Cape. His impeccablecredentials include being feted as Britain’s “Best Newcomer of theYear,” acting as the first British Executive Sous Chef at the famed
Connaught Hotel, and representing Britain as National Chef ininternational competitions and numerous TV appearances andpromotions around the world including the most prestigious James
Beard foundation in New York. Chef Kevin also worked for many
years as the creator of the elegant dining experience as Executive
Chef on the Eastern & Oriental Express, one of the world’s great
trains – making this sensational chef the perfect choice to lead therestaurant’s launch in China.

Opposite page: A view of the
Shanghai cityscape
Clockwise: truffle martini; TheShow Kitchen; confit of slowcooked salmon; The Corner
Room; Chef Kevin Cape

Chef Kevin’s passion for food is matched by his creative skills:“I like to break rules by mixing styles and by mixing flavors,” says thegregarious chef who has embraced his new life in Shanghai. “Mystyle may be a break from tradition but I believe good food doesn’t
need to be unnecessarily complicated. Imagination and passion arevery important when creating a wonderful dining experience, as bothcomes through in the food.” His cooking celebrates fresh and natural
dishes – a signature creation is lamb chop cooked in a European styleand coated with spicy Massaman sauce and garnished with Thai
pickled tomatoes, or a lemon-flavoured risotto topped with a simply
steamed fish served with Panang Sauce, of Southern Thai origin.
“The location of the restaurant in the heart of the Bund couldn’t bebetter,” says Antonella Mascimino, Swatch Art Peace Hotel Director
and Corporate Director of Guest Experience & Customer Relations
Management for YTL Hotels. “It creates a sensational backdrop to
the restaurant’s activities while the Swatch Art Peace Hotel is an
incomparable icon on the Bund with truly spectacular views overShanghai. There isn’t anything else like it and in the renovation ofthis stunning building everything in terms of the interiors has been
kept as much as possible to the original so it is a unique experience.
The interiors of our Shook! restaurant are very modern with a touchof chinoiserie but the building itself is pure heritage so it makes for40

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life feature //“For sashimi we have lacquered trays with little drawer compartments
for soy sauce. It’s all about playing and interacting with a well trained
staff. For chopsticks, we offer a beautiful selection from all over theworld. It is about adding little dimensions. I want to have fun in mykitchen and enjoy the way we interact with guests,” says Chef Kevin.
“This means we will be creating salads or carving meats at the tableand guests can ask for things to be prepared in ways that they like.”“We also expect the Time Bar to be a key attraction at Shook!”,says Laracine. The chic design of dark woods and black stones
accentuated with elegant cream leather is the ideal backdrop to the
bar’s unique molecular mixology lending a whole new perspective tolibations, especially with innovative recommendations for both men’s
and women’s individual palates.
Nearby, The Gallery offers a uniquely designed multimedia banquet
hall for stylish receptions, media events and social gatherings while
the roof terrace is undoubtedly the perfect place for pre-dinnercocktails or after dinner drinks while taking in the lights of the city.
Here one finds two of Shook! Shanghai’s most intriguing architectural
cupolas housing the Blancpain Room and Corner Tower for the mostprivate and romantic of dining experiences.
Clockwise: seafood
chowder; the semiprivate dining room; beef
tenderloin; the Wine Cellar

an interesting overall experience. It really is a beautiful collaboration
between Swatch and YTL".
Certainly stylish touches like the open kitchen, a pièce de résistance
Swatch Watch-inspired chandelier, lacquer finishings and shoji-stylescreens create a winning blend of traditional and modern, comfortable
and chic. There is a variety of table settings from secluded private
enclaves to elegant open dining with 84 seats in the restaurant and
12 around the bar. Both lunch and dinner will be served. The sleek
interiors are courtesy of Bangkok-based Orbit design, a renowned
interiors firm and with offices worldwide, specialising in food andbeverage outlets. In this project, they have certainly achieved arestaurant with an interior as dazzling as anything the kitchen turns out.
“I designed all the kitchens,” explains the chef as he proudly shows
off a stunning open-plan kitchen suitable for hosting a large teamof chefs creating cuisines from Japanese to Chinese and Malaystyle. “I had the opportunity to open the first Shook! in Malaysia so
it is an incredible honour to take it international,” he says. “Here I
have been particularly fortunate to create exactly what I wanted in
the kitchens and I must say that this is easily the most spectacular
kitchen in China.”
Keen to add a sense of excitement to dining, he refers to the fifth floor
dining area as “the playground,” reflecting his fresh approach to finedining. The sophisticated scene is set at the entrance with a stunningfloor-to-ceiling wine cellar corridor.

42

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE“The starting point is the wine,” explains Swatch Art Peace Hotel
Food & Beverage director Julien Laracine who has worked closelywith the chef to ensure guests enjoy a stunning dining experienceat every level. “We have more than 300 different wines and all theclassics of wine from around the world. The talking point is ourincredible vertical wine collections. The wine cellar indeed houses
two rare collections of fantastic Bordeaux wines – Château Cheval
Blanc and Château d’Yquem --of every consecutive vintages goingback to 1945. We also have exquisite cognacs, blended from casks
going back to 1858.”
Once within the main part of the restaurant, Laracine says hewants guests to experience the great interaction that comes fromthe unique Shook! concept. “This has all the elements of Shook! in
Kuala Lumpur but transported and taken to a different level for the
Shanghai context,” he explains. “Obviously we have the best of thebest so we have included elements of Malaysian cuisine - because
that’s where this original idea of dining originated - then Thai, Chineseand Japanese and modern western dishes.” However, Chef Kevindoes not like the word ‘fusion’ and prefers to use ‘whispers’ when
he explains what his food is about. “I get upset when people use theword ‘fusion’ as this is not what I do. I take the best of things fromdifferent areas and then transport them into a different direction inregards to the presentation. I don’t want to dilute flavours: if I makeTom Yum soup, for example, then it is Thai-style Tom Yum – but I
bring a twist to it. For instance, I find lemongrass fiddly so now we put
the soup into a French press and press it at the table so you get all
the beautiful flavours but it is much easier to eat. It also makes for aninteresting presentation.”
Presentation is all important throughout the dining experience and soevery detail has been carefully thought through, explains Mascimino
whose focus on guest experience covers even the tiniest of details.

With a cellar stocked with fine vintages, an impeccably manneredstaff and a thoroughly exciting cuisine that elevates the place above
other stylish shanghai dining rooms, Shook! is set to become aShanghai dining institution.

SOME SHOOK! SPECIALITIESSnow white dancing prawns: stir-fried prawns with hotmayonnaise and sprinkled with honey glazed walnuts.
One kg ribeye steak: each steak will be numbered. A Shook!
tag will be hooked up to the bone. Numbers ending with 8
will receive a complimentary bottle of Möet & Chandon Grand
Vintage 2003

CHÂTEAU CHEVAL BLANC
Cheval Blanc is one of Bordeaux’s most respected wines,
reigning supreme at the top of the St. Emilion’s hierarchy
for most of the past 50 years. About 100,000 bottles of this
distinctive wine are produced each year at the Château
(with about 40,000 produced at Le Petit Cheval). Happily
for oenophiles it also has one of the broadest windows ofdrinkability – tasting notes demonstrate Cheval Blanc produces
a “decadently exotic wine of unbelievable depth and richness.”CHÂTEAU D'YQUEM
Yquem is undoubtedly one of most unique wines in Bordeaux,
the only wine to be elevated to the supreme rank of ‘PremierGrand Superieur’ in the 1855 Classification. The wine’s
legendary aging potential consistently results in remarkable
complexity and elegance making vintage Yquem one of themost highly sought after.

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43

life feature //Sound Trek
Canadian film music composer Michael Brook shares his views
about his creative process, the messages behind the music hecreates and the advantages of staying under the Hollywood radar.
Text by Mark Lean

Celebrated film music composer Michael Brook in his studio.

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45

life feature //“The goal in my music is
usually to create emotion thatserves the film I’m working
on... I try to bring a little of theidea that life isn’t usually that
simple or easily resolved into
my music.”

Come Oscar time, film music composer
Michael Brook might not be a magnet
for the paparazzi on the red carpet. His
stellar career achievements, nevertheless,precede him. Among the projects theToronto-born Brook was involved in lastyear include Country Strong, a film starring
Gwyneth Paltrow about a country musicstar who gets her groove back, and theAcademy Award-winning film The Fighterwith Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale. In
an exclusive interview with YTL Life, Brook
speaks about his most recent projects.

can while acknowledging that there arediminishing returns at some point. I am
puzzled by and sceptical of much of thecriticism of environmentalism. Sure, mostof us do not like to be preached at andsometimes a subset of environmentalists
can be obnoxious or unrealistic. But
the main thrust of organisations like
The Union of Concerned Scientists,
for example, is that improving theenvironment can be a win-win scenario,
creating high quality jobs, saving money
and reducing pollution.

How differently would you approachcomposing music for a movie likeCountry Strong compared with a featuresuch as An Inconvenient Truth?
An Inconvenient Truth had a uniquechallenge in that a lot of information has tobe absorbed by the audience. We foundthat putting any music in the scenes where
Al Gore was explaining science or politics
immediately felt wrong as it seemed likethere was an attempt to manipulate. The
emotion that music brought seemed
inappropriate. So we ended up only putting
music where he was talking about his
personal life and history. This was also a
way of cuing the audience that it's okay if
you don’t totally pay strict attention in somebits. A big goal was to give people little
breaks throughout the film. Otherwise, theywould glaze over and stop following theargument. Essentially the music acted as
an information flow rate adjuster.

In what ways do you incorporate thatviewpoint – as well as viewpoints ingeneral – in your work?
The goal in my music is usually to create
some emotion that serves the film I’mworking on. I suppose one viewpointthat does pervade my work is one ofambiguity and lack of resolution. I try
to bring a little of the idea that life isn’t
usually that simple or easily resolved into
my music. Some people prefer a more
black and white approach, but there isdefinitely a niche for the more nuanced,
shades of grey, approach.

In Country Strong, the mandate was moreon trying to bring a stronger focus on thecomplex intertwined relationships of the four
principal characters. Also, sometimes there
were multiple emotions in a scene and therole of the music was to very slightly amplify
one feeling or another. Another goal wasto sometimes refer to events in the past;
for example, the loss of a baby, which waspart of the subtext but not overtly present inwhat was being said or done.
What are your views on environmental
conservation?
It makes total moral and economic sense
to me to make things as efficient as they46

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2010 was a busy year for you. What has
been your ultimate highlight last year?
Well, I got to work on some amazing
projects last year. It was an incredible run.
I suppose that the highlight was actuallyworking on six films in six months andhave people be happy with the results.
Also, writing about 200 pieces of music
was the fun part.
What techniques did you apply in orderto achieve a result that had strong
impact yet contained an understateddelivery?
With The Fighter, the score had to convey
drama and emotion. Many of the scenes
in the film are very realistic; they were
almost documentary in style, which madeany overtly cinematic music sound false. I
ended up making quite subliminal music.
So the challenge was in some ways
similar to An Inconvenient Truth wheremusic functioned to support but not takethe lead.

Have you ever wanted to be either
an actor or a director as these
individuals often enjoy a higher profilein the industry?
I’ve never aspired to either of those jobs.
I know some people with quite highprofiles, and there are definite perks but
the downside is not trivial. I wouldn’t mind
being a bit better known. There is probably
an optimal profile height. People really canhave too much money or be too famous.
Money and fame can take up a lot of time
and taint many relationships. I’m happy to
say that this is not a problem I have.
What is the most challenging aspectof the work you do?
It definitely has to do with the scheduleand the pace I am required to work at.
I like deadlines but often film schedules
really can lower the quality of one's life. I
have a three year-old son, and although
I am lucky to be able to work at home,sometimes I barely see him or my wife.
What projects are you currently
working on?
I’m working on a documentary called
Undefeated; it’s about a high school
football team in Memphis.

Left: Gwyneth Paltrow and Vince Gill performing.
Top: Academy Award-winning film The Fighter withMark Wahlberg and Christian Bale.

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47

Secret Garden

Tattered linen portrait collar
jacket, suede lattice belt andchiffon handkerchief miniskirt by
Christian Dior; ebony and ivory
bangle by Louis Vuitton.

48
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEP
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designer life //designer life //designer life //designer life //Cruise Control

Wrinkled metal silk jacket,
metal jersey washedsilk tank and washedcotton gabardine pant byBottega Veneta; nappa
lambskin mini bag withtassles by Loewe; aviatorsunglasses by Ray Ban.

Sea Queen

Silk cotton surplice
top by Khoon Hooi;
monogrammed
cashmere voile scarf
by Louis Vuitton; metal
plate necklace by
Christian Dior; goggles,
stylist's own.

50

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEIn From
The Deepdesigner life //Lurex knit top
and 'Tambour'
automatique diving
watch by Louis Vuitton.

Upon reflection
Indulge in a little
introspection in a figure
hugging ’50s-inspired
pinstripe wool bustierwith velvet strap andfull skirt, Louis Vuitton.
Patent leather gloves,stylist’s own.

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Empire of
The SunCrinkled polyester
jumpsuit, paillettecummerbund, 'Levant'monogrammed empire
bag and patched suede
sandals by Louis Vuitton.

designer life //Raising theColumns

Silk georgette toga
dress by Jendela KL;
paillette cummerbund
by Louis Vuitton;snakeskin chain cuff
and plexiglass & metalbracelet by Fendi.

Check Mate

Grosgrain and knit coatwith taffeta sash by RED
Valentino; metallic lacetank by Louis Vuitton;
latex leggings, stylist's
own; tricolor 'Lady Dior'bag by Christian Dior.

designer life //Cool Rider

McQ by Alexander
McQueen's striped
knit dress withdetachable sleeves;by sunglasses byPorsche Design;
cuffs by French Kiss

Easy-Glam
Moment56

Silk mousseline halter
dress by Khoon Hooi;
metallic snakeskin belt,
stylist's own; snakeskinchain cuff and plexiglass &metal bracelet by Fendi.
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

beautiful
life
cuisinelife// //beautiful life //downturn shoppers are more careful,preferring to purchase pieces thatare timeless such as Bottega Veneta.
However, this does not mean the label’s
goods are not fashionable or identifiable.
The brand is famous for its handwoven
leather which adopts a technique known
as intrecciato to create a latticework
effect. This trademark design appears on
its bags, shoes, jewellery, womenswear
and menswear, and even a home interiors
range.

A finely crafted heritage

Bottega Veneta is one of few luxury brands
that offer the consumer a range of lifestyleaccoutrements, spanning leathergoods andchairs to the finest porcelain china. “Thedesign aesthetic of the brand has remained
fairly consistent over the past decade. But,
the types of products we design havechanged. We started with handbags andsmall leathergoods. Today, we offer a fullrange of lifestyle items,” explains Maier.

Left: A student at Bottega
Veneta's Artisan School,
Creative Director Tomas Maier

Understated Allure
At a time when bold logos are somewhat de rigueur, Bottega Veneta
prides itself in showing luxury minus the ubiquitous branding. In fact,as its creative director Tomas Maier explains in an exclusive interview,
it is the brand’s whispered extravagance that has made it coveted by
the fashion elite.
Text by Dazman Manan

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The best things in life aren’t necessarily
flashy objects but subtle and meaningful
items with impeccable finishing anda heritage imbued with honourable
craftsmanship. This basically sums
up the world of Bottega Veneta. Whilesome prefer something stamped witha significant signature when it comesto designer goods, others favour lowkey luxury. These individuals often opt
for Bottega Veneta, a brand which does
not require a showy motif to prove its
prime position in the high fashion world.
The Italian label’s highly venerated status
has firm foundations in its finely createdproducts and the traditional ways in which
they are crafted.

“For me, something is luxurious if it israre, of the finest quality, and personally
meaningful. The luxury of a Bottega Veneta
product lies in the fact that it is made byhand by highly skilled artisans working
with the finest quality materials. The designof Bottega Veneta also emphasises the
personal nature of luxury, the intimacy, forexample, of subtle, functional elements or
small details that only you know are there,”
explains its creative director, Tomas Maierin an exclusive e-mail interview.
This explains why the brand thrives evenin less economically robust conditions,because it stays faithful to its roots. It
is a core classic and during a financial

Founded in 1966 as a handbag andluggage maker in Vicenza, Italy, Bottega
Veneta was a sought-after brand in the 70s
and 80s, favoured for its handwoven leather
carriers. But, for some reason, despite its
no-logo fashion principle, the label didn’t
exactly fare well in the minimalist 90s.
Among those who tried to revive its fortunes
included British designer Giles Deacon,
accessories designer Stuart Vevers andstylist Katie Grand. Unfortunately at the turnof the century, the company was on thebrink of bankruptcy.
But by 2001, the company was acquired by
the Gucci Group, Maier was appointed as
creative director and the brand was reborn
with a new identity, one that emphasised
the idea of restrained opulence, while
capitalising on its timeless intrecciato
weave. Andrew Preston, Maier’s partnerof more than 20 years and COO of his
eponymous label Tomas Maier was once
quoted in Vanity Fair as saying, “Tomas is
Mr. Discreet. He is discreet, the product

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59

beautiful life //Left: A look from the Spring /Summer 2011 Collection, Bottega
Veneta's store in Starhill Gallery

is discreet. The old Bottega motto fromthe 70s was ‘When Your Own Initials Are
Enough.' Perfect for Tomas. Streamlined,
only for those who know.”
On the view that minimalist design is the
direct result of minimalist thought, Maier
thinks the opposite is true. “It requires
more thought to design something
minimalist,” he notes. His hard-thinking
was rewarded. In 2007, the company
recorded a staggering US$130 million
in revenue. Not only did its leathergoods
become coveted but slowly andsurely, Bottega Veneta’s ready-to-wear
also became haute commodities loved by
the international fashion cognoscenti.

Red-carpet glamour

When actress Sandra Bullock took to thered carpet at the 2010 Golden GlobeAwards ceremony, the style and shadeof her gem-coloured gown captured
international media attention. Naturally,
the strapless amethyst number was a
Bottega Veneta. The brand has undeniably
experienced tremendous growth in recent
years but Maier says there isn’t a specificsection of the business that he intends
to focus more on in the near future. “Allareas matter and need to be treated withfull attention”.
He adds that the artisanal leathergoods,
which is the cornerstone of the brand, willcontinue to grow. “Artisanal leathergoods
are the heart and soul of Bottega Veneta
and I think they always will be”. The brandeven established a craft school ensure thetime-honoured tradition lives on.
In fact, the Cabat bag, a handwoven
leather unconstructed tote, was the item60

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

that reinvigorated the brand but Maier ismodest about its stellar success. “I thinkthat kind of thing happens only rarely. I
didn’t set out to design an iconic bag andI don’t design with that goal now. There
are a number of successful and enduringbags in the line that I have designed over
the years—the Veneta, the Roma, theAquatre—and I’m always delighted when adesign proves to be especially well-loved,”
he explains.

Fashion insiders feel that Maier’s winningways can be credited for the fact that hehas given the millennial consumer a new
way of shopping for luxury products. It is
not about showing off blatant insignias
but appreciating and collecting special
pieces that are desirable because they are
beautiful and well-made. Items that, years
later, may become heirlooms. The brand’s
also been described as having a “discreet
individuality” appeal to it.

For spring 2011, the brand presents theCigar Cocco Lave large Cabat in brownand-black crocodile skin. Probably theultimate of all its Cabat carriers, this exotic
number is tagged at a cool US$80,350.
This season, the hobo-shaped Veneta
comes in white, among other colours, withfrayed accents leaving it looking slightly
unfinished. But, with all Bottega Veneta
products, attention to detail was given
even to the fraying.

For spring/summer 2011, Bottega Veneta
offers both women and men effortless
clothes with understated, expert tailoringthat lends delicate intricacy to the outfits.
It’s a season of ease, informality, andunobtrusive sophistication. The palette isneutral and cool while shapes are casualand roomy. Materials are airy, light, ranging
from the classically luxurious to newer,
technically-advanced fabrics, all with aneasy feel.

How does the brand caterto the Asian market?

“The brand operates in a consistent manner
everywhere in the world. If there are colours
or styles that are particularly popular in
one country, we try to accommodate
those preferences, but we don’t develop
specific products for specific countries.
Our customers travel all the time. It’s
important that they find one Bottega Veneta
everywhere they go,” Maier explains.

The CC Luggage Collection

He adds the brand is very well-received all
across Asia. “We have found a customer
who understands craftsmanship andappreciates a more discreet, understatedapproach to luxury. We’ll do well in Asia by
doing what we’ve always done offering finecraftsmanship and timeless design to men
and women who have their own senseof style”. And, as these fans of Maier’s
sense of style believe, true luxury always
whispers, it never shouts.
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61

beautiful life //beautiful life //infullElegance
is Dew

Sergio Rossi Cachet Peeptoe
Platform; Valentino Garavani
Beaded Leather clutch

bloomThis season’s hottest accessories are acelebration of beguiling colours, surprisingfabrics and elegant embellishments.

Photography by Leon Bin Yeebeautiful life //Chic Cache

Louis Vuitton PlastronCosmopolitan necklace; Louis
Vuitton Galuchat Art Nouveau
Amethyst purse; Christian Dior
pink Rendezvous wallet

Textured Effects
Valentino Garavani Laceheels; Valentino Garavani
Rosier clutchbeautiful life //Elements of Style
From high fashion to haute horlogerie, the rules of fashion
are constantly evolving and always fascinating.
Runway Magic

Reminiscent of the 70s, an era associated with disco and decadence, Louis Vuitton’s Spring/
Summer 2011 advertising campaign captures the decadent glamour as shown during thebrand’s runway show. “We started from the very beginning this season, talking about glamour
and something very stylised, very glossy,” says Louis Vuitton’s artistic director Marc Jacobs.
“We arrived at something which I would compare to the Eiffel Tower lighting up every hour on thehour – something of artifice that’s just so gorgeous and glamorous and beautiful, that you arecompletely mesmerised by it.”

Paradise Revealed

The sun shines bright and beautiful as Christian Dior drops anchor at a South Pacificnaval base. This basically sums up the brand’s spring/summer 2011 collection thatfeatures a masculine-feminine mix between sailor-style and bird of paradise references.
Peacoats and parkas in crisp white and navy nubuck leathers contrast with richprints of hibiscus, orchids and palms. Floral pattern and petal details with nauticalfolds and knots are lured into a new adventure with lace insets and exotic galuchat
print. Accessories too are island-inspired such as flower-detailed thongs, seashellbracelets, feathered high heeled espadrilles with rope straps, and frayed Lady Diorbags with crocodile handles.

Gift of Sight

Luxury watchmaker Omega recently announced it will work with actor and brandambassador Daniel Craig to support ORBIS International and its Flying Eye Hospitalin the fight against preventable blindness. A special timepiece – the Hour Vision Blue– has been created to celebrate the partnership. Omega has guaranteed that at least
US$1 million from its sale will be donated to ORBIS, an organisation which delivers
eye care to people some of the world’s most remote regions. Omega president
Stephen Urquhart says: “Omega is pleased to have the opportunity to contributeto ORBIS’ remarkable mission. It’s particularly gratifying to be working with Daniel insupport of an organisation whose work we all believe in.”66

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Precious TimeFor Van Cleef & Arpels, time iss y n o n y m o u s w i t h p o e t r y. E v e r yseason the maison creates dream-like
timepieces with a bold creativity thatnever ceases to surprise.
Using the techniques of enamelling,mother-of-pearl inlay or gold engraving,each watch dial tells a story. For
example, the Timeless Oiseaux deParadis timepiece tells the legend of
the Birds of Paradise: elusive, it floats
endlessly in the air, never coming
down to earth. The Lady Arpels
Extraordinary Butterfly collection comewith names inspired by butterflies
found in various cultures while the Lady
Arpels Extraordinary Hummingbirds
range feature these nomadic birds
on dials encrusted with precious
stones, champlevé enamel and threedimensional enamel.

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67

spa life //spa life //The mystical island of Bali, spliced with history and myth,is once again registering on the radar of international world
travellers. Thanks to author Elizabeth Gilbert’s New York Times
book list best-seller Eat, Pray, Love and the subsequent movie
adaptation starring Julia Roberts, the island where the gods
are believed to reside, is brought into renewed focus as thedestination where visitors come to achieve balance between
body, mind and spirit.
The inspiring manner in which the sea and the mountains
carve the island’s topography is very much like how aseasoned stone artisan would craft a beaming statue of thegoddess Parvati. To the northeast corner of the island, near
the black volcanic sand beaches of Lombok, peace reigns.
A virtually untouched part of the island, this is where the Spa
Village Resort Tembok, Bali, backed by the sacred 3,142
metre Mount Agung, is located.
I ask Ni Wayan Sri Armini (or ‘Sri’ for short), the spa manager,
what the locals think of Gilbert’s book. The young lady
gives a shy, almost enigmatic smile. She continues topulverise a fistful of just-plucked herbs with a large grey
pestle pounder. We are at the spa’s office and makeshift
work space, surrounding stacks of plants and roots still
bearing traces of the soil from which they were taken.
Dark mahogany cupboards brim with the freshest herbs,
roots, fruits and spices, all of which are sourced from thevillage markets and farms surrounding the resort. The
tantalising, almost delicious, aroma of over a dozen local
herbs and spices fill the room; it is a harmonious blendof scents that would not seem out of place in the busy
kitchen of an Indonesian home.

Healing Potions
At Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali, medicinal traditions suchas jamu and boreh that show the natural path to vibranthealth, have been passed from one generation to the next.
Text by Mark Lean
Opposite page: Jamu is served to all guests at Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali
Top: The resort's staff with a carrier of jamu

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Sri is making a tonic known as jamu, a special liquidconcoction made from plants, roots, barks, leaves,honey, fruit and one or two other essential ingredients.
The jamu maker, usually an elderly lady, but in this case,
Sri keeps these ingredients a secret. In Indonesian
culture, jamu is the panacea that alleviates everyday
ailments. The healthful tonic also functions as a beauty
aid and a body fortifier. “Ingredients like beras kencur(a variation of rice) and finger root possess invigorating
properties that strengthen the male reproductive
system. Kunyit assam or turmeric and tamarind helps
one lose weight,” explains Sri. At Spa Village Resort
Tembok, Bali, two jamu recipes are highlighted. Kunyit
assam has been created especially for women; whileberas kencur is targeted at men.

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69

spa life //Top: Ingredients used in the preparation of jamu
Bottom: A boreh treatment

One of the activities at the resort is a daily introduction tojamu-making, a popular activity with guests. Considered in
the Indonesian archipelago as a booming cottage industry
amounting to millions of dollars each year, the traditional art
of jamu-making speaks to the cultural sensibilities of the local
populace. The main jamu ingredients highlight turmeric for its
astringent qualities, tamarind for blood cleansing and ginger
to assist in digestion. These can be readily sourced from thegarden in most Indonesian homes, termed by locals as an
apotek hidup or “living pharmacy”. A vast compendium of
spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, cloves, fennel,
black and white pepper, cardamom, coriander, cumin andcaraway seeds are used in the creation of jamu potions.
Sri explains that “fresh ingredients, sourced from the local
area are delivered once every two days. This guarantees
the potion's efficacy”. She adds, “Galangal, ginger, rice, andcloves are all easy-to-find ingredients." It is best to drink
jamu prepared on the same day, although there are shops
located all over Indonesia selling pre-packaged boxes of thedifferent variations of jamu. But, according to Sri, “Drinking
freshly prepared jamu is comparable to savouring a cup of
gourmet coffee. The pre-packaged version, on the other
hand, is like instant coffee”.
While the health benefits of jamu are numerous, its
topical counterpart boreh, a body scrub made from ajudicious mix of pounded cloves, galangal, ginger andrice, exfoliates dead skin cells and warms tired, knottedmuscles. For Balinese families, boreh is the scrub used
before weddings as part of the bride and groom's
grooming ritual. It signifies a break with the past andentering the threshold of a new stage of life. At Spa
Village Resort Tembok, Bali, guests may experience
these age-old traditions and therapies for themselves,emerging reenergised, and replenished with vigour
and grace.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE“Ingredients like beras
kencur or finger root
possess invigorating
properties and strengthen
the male reproductive
system. Kunyit assam orturmeric and tamarind
helps one lose weight.”
The Oracle Retreat
Over the years, the guest therapist programme at Spa Village
Resort Tembok, Bali has been a highlight for guests to theresort. A carefully chosen selection of experts specialising in
massage, art and meditation has enriched the lives of guests
even after their departure from the island. With Oracle, aretreat for mind, body and soul, which was held from 10 –17 March 2011, participants benefited from the wisdom andknowledge offered by facilitators like Diana Manilova, Marc
Cofer, Wanny Winsloe, Mike Tan and Dewi Hopley. These
individuals, through the own personal experiences, haveforged powerful modalities that collectively heal, nourish andfortify body, mind and spirit.
Oracle is an opportunity to take a break from life, staying andexperiencing the way of life in a place of beauty as well as achance to slow down, simplify and embrace the moment. It isalso an opportunity to remember what nourishes and inspires
so that one steps back into life renewed, replenished andbalanced.
The programme is set to continue in the following months with
the introduction of new therapists, each imbued with the skills
and empathy needed to bring renewed relevance, meaningand happiness to one's life.The setting at Spa Village Tembok
Bali is the perfect location for this rebalancing to take place.
There is a real sense of togetherness, which is reflected by
the staff's warm smiles and a genuine intention to assist.
According to Diana Manilova, a facilitator at the recent Oracle
Retreat, “When you balance body, mind and soul, we start toenjoy our lives. Having all three gives you enough energy toexperience happiness, miracles and the beauty of creation.
We find purpose in life, and magic in our hearts.”

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Beautiful life //For a while now, the Kerstin Florian brand has been quietly
building a stellar reputation amongst spa aficionados and beauty
insiders alike. The family-run company, which formulates its
product ranges based on natural resources including thermal
mineral water, mud, algae, herbal extracts and essential oils, islocated in Lake Forest, California. Established in 1978 by Kerstin
Florian, a spa expert with over 40 years of experience in theindustry, the company produces over 100 professional and retailproducts and over 25 exclusive treatments for facial, body, bathand sun as well as offer manicures and pedicures.
“A spa experience is about taking time out, allowing the body andmind to rest to generate new energy and to clear your thoughts.
It allows you time to work on yourself. All of this is very beneficial
for overall wellness,” explains Florian. The youthful-looking 60something entrepreneur says she creates “spa experiences” forherself everyday with her own rituals. “I start by taking a shortwalk. Then I have a body scrub and a thermal bath. Before going
to bed, I get a massage with an aromatherapy oil for a goodnight’s sleep,” she says, before adding, “Anyone can start bycreating a personal program. Being happy is also very importantin maintaining your well-being. Happy hormones help you to feelbalanced and appreciate life”.
Her passion for the business started at the age of 12. At thatpoint, Florian already knew that her life would somehow involvethe synergy of beauty and nature and finding ways to bringthat idea to fruition. Her first break into the American worldof skincare took place in 1967 courtesy of legendary beauty
pioneer, Aida Grey. “I was able to work under Aida’s tutelage for10 years. I eventually became the managing director of 28 Aida
Grey Salons”.

Inspired Beauty

By 1978, Florian began reflecting on her original goals of merging
beauty and nature, a well-recognised concept today which
was considered revolutionary then. At the Surf & Sand Hotel in
Laguna Beach, California, Florian offered nutritional consulting,facials, meditation classes and body treatments in addition tocreating some of her own skin care products, complete withhand-typed labels.

In an exclusive interview with YTL Life, Kerstin Florian andCharlene Florian Barker of the cult spa brand Kerstin Floriandiscuss their favourite spa treatments and the future of an industry
that has experienced phenomenal growth in recent decades.
Text by Dazman Manan

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Top) Kerstin Florian’s Correcting skincare range.

Nearly 10 years and three expansions later, she decided to moveon and focus on teaching others the real source of inner health

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Beautiful life //According to her, Kerstin Florian products are 90 per cent parabenfree and are created with unique natural resources, like salts, mud,marine elements, essential oils and phyto-therapy. “We have abalanced approach to formulation with a strong emphasis on theimportance of lifestyle for optimum health and well-being.”
The products are a sophisticated blend of Swedish simplicity,historical European spa tradition and age-old Oriental philosophy.
This blending has resulted in an ideal regimen for today’s active
women and men looking for a natural, simplistic and yet, extremely
effective approach to health and skin care. The results areundeniable: healthier looking skin, more energy, reduction of stressand increased flexibility.

“Kirsten Florian
focuses on the realsource of inner wealthand outer beauty.”
and outer beauty. It was then that she began a spa consulting
business with a list of reputable clients. Her spa philosophy andproduct line emerged from first-hand knowledge of the mostrenowned spas in Europe, years of research, travel, and work
discovering healing ingredients derived from nature. “Natural spa
treatments and ingredients are better because they contain a life
force not found in man-made concoctions. They are often full ofimportant minerals, vitamins, anti-oxidants and other nutrients.
When you have a treatment with natural ingredients, you feel likeyou have been touched with something that produces a result,leaving you feeling relaxed and energised. Coupled with the humantouch, it can produce an extraordinary experience,” explains thecompany’s vice-president, Charlene Florian Barker.

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Florian recommends asking a lot of questions before deciding
on one's treatment as there are a variety of spa treatments
available.“Most spa professionals will steer you in the right direction.
I suggest while at the spa, incorporate the steam session, a bath,a scrub, a massage and take time for relaxation. Drink water, eat
something healthy. Ask for a recommendation for a home programme(facial or body programme, or exercise) to extend the benefits ofthe treatment.”

put together a plan customised to the needs of your skin which
includes both professional treatments as well as home care. A
professional series can address such problems like loss ofelasticity, hyper-pigmentation and loss of vitality. If you are strictly
going to a spa for a pampering, relaxation massage, every
individual is different. Personally, I like to have at least one treatment
per month, be it for the face or the body,” explains Florian.

Personally, she loves a Caviar Facial especially just before a special
event. “It gives me time to completely relax and gives my skin an
immediate glow. I also love the Lavender Dreams Body treatment
for an all-over body experience that leaves me feeling completely
rested”.

In terms of what we can expect from spas in the near future,
Barker notes that programmes will focus on alternative modalities.
These include programmes to treat more specific conditions suchas boosting the immune system, curing colds, detoxification andsuperfood nutrition.

Florian feels the key to her success is using high-quality purenatural resources, innovative technologies and research,
and an East-West philosophy. “It’s all part of good health andpreventive health measures. None of us can maintain the lookof a 20-year-old forever. Following the traditional European spa
concept that stresses healthy nutrition, a good fitness program,
psychological well-being, and proper care of the face and body,
we can grow older being in balance and reflecting a true beauty
that comes from within.”
So how often should one indulge in a spa experience?
“It depends on what you want to accomplish. If you’re interested
in getting your skin in shape, it is recommended to have a seriesof six facials within six months. A professional aesthetician can

As for the future, she believes the spa business holds a wealthof opportunities both for the brand and consumers. “We see spas
as an educational centre where people can learn about lifestyle:proper nutrition, regular exercise, psychological well-being aswell as proper care of the face and body. This is the core of ourphilosophy as a brand. We have always been a spa brand andplan to stay on that course”.
(Top) Charlene Florian Barker and Kerstin Florian.
(Bottom) One of the brand’s best-selling product ranges.

The Spa Villages at YTL Hotels and Resorts carry the Kerstin Florian range.

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beautiful life //beautiful life //Visual Visionaire

New for Spring 2011 is Kanebo’s Coffret
D’Or featuring elegant packaging andsubtle shades. Products such as the
one-of-a-kind Essence Stay Rouge havethe combined benefits of a lipstick and lip
gloss. The Eyes Appeal Eyeshadow palettecontains colours and textures that highlightwithout looking too over-the-top.

Fabulously Floral

The timeless fragrance of Issey Miyake’s L’eau D’Issey has been given a feminine
update with the introduction of L’eau D’Issey Florale. The scent has a rosy,transparent freshness of a dew drop embodying purity, balance and simplicity.
Bottled in a luxurious glass cone featuring architectural lines, the fragrance isdesigned to transcend time and trends. In the words of Issey Miyake: “Design is
not philosophy, it’s for life”. The same can be said for his signature scents.

Spring Fling
Add magic to your look in this season’s mostenchanting hues and fragrances.
Heaven Sent

The Great EscapeÔ d’Azur, the latest fragrance from Lancôme, is inspired by their 1969 classic
Ô de Lancôme. An ode to femininity and elegance, the delectable scent was
created by perfumers Domitille Bertier and Sophie Labbé. “Mouth-watering Sicilian
bergamot blends seamlessly with crisp rose, energised by lemon essence andthe vibrancy of musky notes, enveloping the fragrance in a veil of voluptuous
sensuality,” says the duo about their exciting new creation.

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Burt’s Bees’ delicately scented Mama Bee
products that leave skin soft and gentle totouch. Included in the range is the Belly
Butter that helps diminish the appearanceof stretch marks resulting from pregnancy.
There is also the Nourishing Body Oil thatworks hard to keeps skin hydrated, supple
and moist. It also provides a comforting
massage for both mother and baby. The Leg
and Foot Crème formulated with peppermint
oil and rosemary extract soothes tired legs
and feet.

Seeing Is Believing

Long and thick eyelashes can create more dramatic-looking eyes. Sisley’s latest
Phyto-Mascara Ultra-Stretch has a curling, lengthening and volume-enhancing
formula. The soft and creamy texture will not dry out, run or crumble, and isvery quick-drying. The result? Lashes that are well-coated, perfectly defined,
flawlessly separated and soft to the touch.

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life of luxury //Read & Listen
Maximilian Büsser

Founder of the boutique watchmaking company
MB&F, famed for its Horological Machines, theGeneva-based Maximilian Büsser reveals to YTLLife, the books and music that have inspired
him to take the path less taken. It is a path
which has, for him, made all the difference, bothprofessionally and personally.

1

My Favourite Books

1

2

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1. Oscar and the Lady in Pink by EricEmmanuel Schmitt – These are theletters of a dying boy of 10 addressed toGod. They are found by ‘Mamie Rose’,
the Lady in Pink of the title, who visits him
in hospital in the pink uniform worn bynurses on the children’s ward. The lettersdescribe 12 days in the life of Oscar, andare filled with funny, moving characters.
These twelve days may be his last, but
thanks to Mamie Rose, who forms anaffectionate bond with Oscar, they aredestined to become legendary.
2.The World According to Garp byJohn Irving – I was brought up in aserious family, and discovering Garp andhis incredibly rich, weird and humorous
take on life, was comparable to a
wake-up call. He was telling me: it was
perfectly fine not to be like all the “others”.
Garp learns from the women in his life,
struggling to become more tolerant in
the face of intolerance. The story is
decidedly rich with “lunacy and sorrow”,
and the sometimes ridiculous chains ofevents the characters experience still
resonate with painful truth. I read thisnovel first when I was 16 and it is the only
novel I have ever read a second time in
my life.
3. The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand –Two years ago, an old friend whom I had
not seen for a while gave me this bookon hearing the story of MB&F. She toldme, “I think you will relate to Roark”. The
Fountainhead’s
protagonist,
HowardRoark, is an individualistic young architect
who chooses to struggle in obscurity
rather than compromise his artistic andpersonal vision.
The book follows his battle to practicewhat the public does not understand(his work will be considered later as the
beginning of modern architecture), while
his colleagues get rich and famous giving
their clients what they want; for instance,
the baroque trend of the moment. Roark
followed his way without any compromiseeven though virtually no one understoodor liked what he was trying to achieve.
Significantly, the book’s title comes from aquote at the end of the book: “man’s ego is
the fountainhead of human progress.”2

3

My Favourite Music
1. I’ve Got My Own Hell to Raiseby Bettye LaVette – This album
exudes a raw power from a woman who,
having started singing at the age of sixteen,
was never recognised or rewarded during
the course of her life. But, she continued
doing what she loved most. Suddenly
and unexpectedly at the age of 61, theindustry and the public recognised heramazing talent and fantastic energy on
this album. I must humbly admit I firstheard of her through this incredible album.
I believe strongly in the album’s subtext:“never give up if you love what you do.”2. Back in Black by AC/DC – This album
is the icon of an era. It contains raw power.
The word “raw” defines my tastes because

it means it comes from guts and notfrom the marketing executives. The song
“Hells Bells” has a timeless quality. It is
as contemporary and relevant as the day
it was released on 25 June 1980, morethan 30 years ago. I am not a fan of hardrock, but this album is just fantastic! With
49 million copies sold to date worldwide,
it is the second-highest-selling album of
all time!
3. My Favourite Songs by Chet
Baker – What a destiny, what an incredible
raw talent. A fragile rebel who destroyed
himself slowly before accidently killing himself at the age of 59 while all the time living only for his music. His rendering of “MyFunny Valentine” is a masterpiece.

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life timeon the// cover //In PerfectTime

There is never a dull moment during
Geneva's Salon International de laHaute Horlogerie (SIHH). We present
the year’s horological highlights; aglowing testimony to the indefatigable
efforts of watchmakers whose craftcontinue to astound and amaze.
Text by Kenneth Tan

The 21st Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) may
have taken place in the cold of winter. But, insulated from theharsh elements, the grandiose-sounding City of Fine Watchmaking
in Geneva's Palexpo, where the Salon was held, was a hub ofconstant movement and chatter as dealers, VIP clients andjournalists converged upon the exhibition spaces to discover
the latest delights by some of the watchmaking world's greatest
names.
Inside, Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrated the 80th anniversary of its
Reverso and thus proceeded to have its brand ambassador and
Hollywood starlet Diane Kruger at its booth. This, notably, caused
quite a stir. In addition, the brand also unveiled a triumphant creationin the Reverso Répétition Minutes à Rideau. This piece interlaces
the high complication of a minute repeater with the iconic Reverso
mechanism, allowing its user to draw the 'curtain', and thus release
the pure crystalline sounds of the chiming gongs.
Another icon of horology, the Royal Oak Offshore of Audemars
Piguet, is picked to be the means in the brand’s ongoing corporate
responsibility projects. The former governor of California, Arnold
Schwarzenegger, who has maintained close association with thebrand, lends his name to The Legacy Chronograph, available in a
muscular 48mm case of ceramic, titanium and pink gold. Proceedsfrom the sales of the 1,500 pieces will fund the ‘Gubernator’s’ After
School All-Stars Foundation that helps keep children in schools.

Richard Mille’s RM026 features white gold snakes
encrusted with rubies, diamonds and emeralds
white gold snakes for a combination of esotericsensibility and technical horology.

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From the ‘workshop of ideas’ that is Panerai, 2011 recalls a rare
dial of bar-shaped hour markers from the 30s, of which only two
surviving examples were found and used as test samples. This
Italian brand, inextricably linked to the militaristic associationof its past, also issued the Luminor Submersible 1950 3 Days

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life timeon the// cover //Automatic Bronzo, a case that denotes a
symbiotic relationship with its wearer, with thepatina of its case aging to the external agentsof air, humidity, heat and wear. None of which,however, the brand hastens to add, will alter theproperties of the material but will, instead, makethe piece look entirely unique.
Another brand that has unearthed a novelty fromthe riches of history is Parmigiani, the brand most
famously associated with the restoration of precious
and rare mechanical objects such as Fabergé eggs
and the famous Breguet Pendule Sympathique Clock,which was deemed irreparable by experts. It was notnonetheless, a bridge too far for Michel Parmigiani
who laboured for 1,600 hours and then sold the clock
for a cool million US dollars at an auction.
This year sees Parmigiani's same devoted application
on a Hegirian Calendar, first inspired by a model sent
in by a Muslim merchant. The result is a complex
mechanism measuring the Islamic lunar calendar, whichkeeps perfect sync over a lunar cycle of 30 years, farlonger than the original model from which it was derived.
For those thrilled by the world of speed, the Bugatti Super
Sport hearkens to the body of a wing on the iconic car.
The winding manual Calibre Parmigiani 372 within the dial
had to be designed in two planes to match the contoursof the new case.
Meanwhile, the exuberance of Roger Dubuis embarks ona new era with their latest RD680 self-winding mechanicalmovement. In its ode to the player, the Chronograph La
Monegasque Big Number draws inspiration from thecasinos of Monte Carlo and encases the RD680 in a
44mm rose gold case.
As with years past, Van Cleef & Arpels succeeds indrawing emotion from the realms of fantasy with its take on
Les Voyages Extraordinaires. The series of dials under thecollection are described by CEO and Creative Director Nicolas
Bos as an extension of the many extraordinary adventures ofJules Verne’s fertile imagination. African and polar landscapes,
mountain peaks, the underwater world, erupting volcanoes andgalactic vistas adorn dials via the notoriously difficult enamelling
technique, and fine sheets of gold and silver are applied as abase to dramatically increase the brilliance of the dials.
As with the rest of its poetic complications, the brand’s highjewellery timepiece caps Verne’s extraordinary adventures with arepresentation of foliage and flora. Emeralds and sapphires makefor flowers and leaves, while diamonds entwine like creepers

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as two mischievous tails of black onyx and diamonds hint at thedisappearing bodies of small monkeys.
And then of course, there are times when watchmakers search
for that sense of immortality through their craft that they invent a
piece of such complexity, it would behove the viewer to simply
stand back and offer a resounding round of applause. Such a piece
made a debut during SIHH 2011 in the form of Greubel Forsey’s
Invention Piece 2. A total of 594 components combine in a glorious
celebration of gears, jewels, bridges, plates and whirring tourbillons...
four to be exact. This dizzying quadruple tourbillon can be housed ina case of either platinum 950 or 18k 5N red gold.
Another watchmaker famed for his maverick designs and an almost
cavalier disregard for trends is Richard Mille, who was spottedwalking the corridors of SIHH rather jauntily. It could be that his starhas been on the rise since his inception in the world of watchmaking.
It could also be that in his range of scintillating novelties this year,
he has the pleasure to once again defy those who think they’ve got
the Mille enigma figured. To the new RM033 which features a roundcase – and a departure from the tonneau shaped cases, Mille says
it’s simply something he felt like doing.
On another piece, Mille shows his haute joaillere chops with theplacement of a bejewelled serpent on a dial. There’s also the RM038,
a watch designed for Bubba Watson who places at World No 2 on
the PGA tour. Watson’s wrist, as Mille suggests, is the ultimate test
bed for his timepieces, as the hard-hitter Watson averages one of thelongest drives on the Tour. And this, Mille says, will ably demonstratethat his creations can adapt to extreme shocks, and deliver onlightness and comfort as well.
Parisian jewellery house Cartier, which does a roaring annual trade ofseveral billion euros across the globe, seems intent on catching up
in its timepiece extensions. To add to the resounding success of lastyear’s masculine Calibre de Cartier, this year sees the integration of
the house-patented Astrotourbillon movement - in which a tourbillon
dances across a dial every minute – into the Calibre case.
In addition to the high stakes chronometry that Cartier has pulled
off, including an Astrorégulateur and Pasha de Cartier skeleton
flying tourbillon, the brand also makes a case for the artistic crafts.
The old school techniques used in splitting, dyeing and selecting
tiny stones for a mineral turtle dial looks exceedingly laborious andthe wood marquetry of a bear on a dial entails the sourcing of 10
species of natural European wood. Then again, perhaps it’s notaltogether unusual that Cartier takes such pains to get it right. Afterall, if there’s one thing the brand knows, it’s how to give the clientele
what they want; even if the latter may not know that they want it, yet.
And that innate quality of watchmakers in creating desirable trends,
is possibly the greatest proof of what it takes to stay ahead in thegame of time.

[clockwise] At Cartier’s exhibition area, intricately assembled
dials meet the eye; A wall of Reversos lined up at the
Jaeger-LeCoultre booth show visitors the journey so far;
Audemars Piguet’s Legacy Chronograph is a part of thebrand’s thrust in corporate responsibility; The minuterepeater high complication in the Reverso chimes in the80th year of an icon.

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life of luxury //Talking Smartly

Success has a new formula and it’s the E7 from Nokia. Since its launch the device has
been making waves internationally. It is an innovative business smartphone that delivers
the best-possible user experience with touch-and-type capability on a full keyboard
and stunning four-inch capacitive touch display. Other benefits include the USB support
feature that enables file-saving onto a compatible memory stick. Mail for Exchange,
Microsoft Communicator Mobile and support for intranet and extranet portals. Its Microsoft
Share Point Server, meanwhile, offers professionals direct, secure and real-time accessto corporate systems, all of which ensure you stay on top of your game, no matter wherein the world you are.

Life is Beautiful
For all-encompassing style, indulge in the following
lifestyle accoutrements where superior design
meets to-the-moment technology.
A Sleek Drive

As the next instalment in the Porsche story, the Porsche 918 Spyder stays true to themarque’s DNA. The vehicle, an open two-seater features innovative lightweight construction
with sophisticated contours, perfectly sculpted surfaces and the personality of a racing car.
Inside, its carefully considered ergonomics include a console centrepiece and three central
free-standing instruments, all are designed to create a feeling of greater space.

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Designers from the André Kikoskiarchitectural agency created thispiece of furniture to be used in the
Wright, an eatery located at New York’s
Guggenheim Museum. “The layout wasvery simple, almost monastic,” explained
Kikoski of the restaurant’s interiors.
Sharing a similar design aesthetic as
Frank Lloyd Wright, modern classics
such as the Guggen chair, with its sleek
and clean lines, has now been recreatedby designer interiors firm Ligne Roset.
The exact dimensions of Kikoski’s original
creation were meticulously followed,
ensuring the Guggen chair’s utilitarian yet
sophisticated design will surely lend astylish touch to any home or workplace.

Crystal Clear

Japanese artist Ryuzo Kawai lends his talent to Daum’s latest crystal pieces. At once
quirky and collectible, Momiji and Yoshito, two of the pieces, depict a small girl in deep
meditation, with a stone on her head that signifies burden. Yoshito is a reflection of theartist’s personality – portrayals of his empathy and generosity. It was designed to inspire
hope and courage to anyone facing challenging times.

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life cuisine //CuisineTalk

YTL Life speaks to Eric Guth, generalmanager of Autodome and Shook!
at Shanghai Swatch Art Peace Hotel,
who oversees the exciting restaurant
and bar concepts at YTL properties
both in Malaysia and abroad.
Text by Mark Leanlife cuisine //In the past year, Autodome has rolled out new F&B
concepts such as Teeq, Hutong@Lot 10 and the upcoming
Shook! at Shanghai Swatch Art Peace Hotel. What dothese restaurants have in common?
They share a common DNA including fantastic design with open
kitchens, premium location, and passion to create amazing andrelatable cuisine with the freshest products. When combined,
these elements led to our success story.
What are their special characteristics?
Shook! is a culinary theatre playing every night with various
partitions in a grand environment. There is a great jazz band;the atmosphere is fantastic; it is the place to see and be seen.
Hutong refers more to Malaysian roots, the family memories thatare captured through a culinary culture and heritage, and,ofcourse, a different price point. Teeq is more of a culinary
bridge to reach the upcoming successful generation with its
sexy, chic and energetic environment featuring a delectablechoice of dishes.
People say that the F&B scene is always changing, always
evolving. How does one adapt to this change?
We adapt by creating concepts which are pioneers in theirfield. We create timeless spaces that you can adjust enhanceor re-invent to the current market trend, and working with openminded people who understand the need for humility, flexibility
and creativity.
Judging by its popularity during lunch hour, Hutong @ Lot
10 has been a complete success. How was this achieved?
Hutong fulfills needs that everyone understands. Simplicity,passion and emotion! Everyone has a dish, of their childhood
imprinted in their memory that as a child left a lasting impression.
Hutong brings Malaysians back to their growing up days andculture. It is priceless and so beautiful to see three generations
cooking together! It is the assurance that Malaysian roots still havespace to grow and will always remain. Cuisine is an extremely
strong symbol in people’s hearts! Besides this, the uniquenessof its design, the layout and Hutong’s story make a fantastic
showcase of Malaysia to visitors who can enjoy extraordinary
variety, a unique panel of flavours at a very reasonable price and,in a hygienic and safe environment. The value is unbeatable.
What can a diner at Teeq look forward to in terms of cuisine
and the overall experience?
A relaxing environment with a roof top garden in the heart of Kuala
Lumpur’s Golden Triangle is already a unique selling point. The
cuisine is vibrant and exciting. It can please a young couple, agroup of people who want to warm up before a party, or businessassociates hosting an informal dinner.

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Above: Lot 10's Hutong
Below: Eric Guth, tastemakerextraordinaire.

Shook! at Shanghai Swatch Art Peace Hotel will open in thenext few months. How different is it in terms of its cuisine to
Shook! Kuala Lumpur?
Shanghai is a different market. The location of Shook on the Bund
sets the restaurant in the most amazing and competitive location in
Shanghai. All the key players are there. For us, the first thing was
to see what could work from Shook! Kuala Lumpur in Shanghai inorder to keep our identity and to create synergy between the tworestaurants. Then, we worked on the adjustment of some of thedishes to enhance them. We created new dishes as an elementof differentiation with Shook! Kuala Lumpur. Bringing Shook! to thenext level was a fantastic challenge. But, in essence, Shook!‘score philosophy remains the same. This includes uncompromisingquality of the products, perfect cooking techniques and delicious
and authentic cuisine. Dishes are always artistically presented. This
is what, we hope, remains in our guest’s hearts and memories.
Conversely, in what ways are both restaurants similar?
The open kitchen, which creates the close proximity with ourguests, the choice of four cuisines, Chef Cape who set up Shook!
Kuala Lumpur, chic, elegant and stunning interior design, an
engaging bar area, and of course, Bordelaise First Growths.
What are your favourite dishes at Shook!?
Snow dancing prawns! It is a dish so amazing that when you
try it, you will always go back for more. It’s a dish any chef
would love to create! The longevity of a dish is the mark of thegreatest chef.

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life cuisine //Beyond The
Bamboo Curtain

Presenting Starhill Gallery’s latest culinary sensation – Gonbei San.

The newly refurbished Gonbei San at Starhill Gallery is set to become Kuala Lumpur’shottest dining room. The eatery’s name derives from “Gonbei”, a typical farmer’s name inancient Japan, while “San” refers to a mountain, symbolised by magnificent bamboo peaks
at the eatery’s dramatic entrance. In the spirit of Gonbei San’s genuine hospitality, bamboo issignificant as a symbol of vitality in both its service and delicacies that awaits diners.
At the entrance, guests are greeted with a hearty announcement of drumbeats, heralding
greetings of “irashaimase” or “welcome” to a journey into time-honoured Japanese culture
and tradition. Begin with a sampling from the wide array of sakés and shochu. Eachselection is meticulously blended and specially selected to enhance your dining experienceat Gonbei San.
At the helm of Gonbei San is the city’s undisputable master of Japanese cuisine, Chef
Lew Tet Sin who brings almost 40 years of his legendary expertise in creating authentic
Japanese cuisine. His specialties are prepared using highly prized ingredients imparted
with the freshest flavours.
Besides Chef Lew’s cuisine, diners are also privy to the restaurant’s statement-making
interiors adorned with objets d’art personifying the beauty and the subtleties of Japaneseculture. These works, depicting the four seasons of life, are inspiring in their beautyand especially rich in symbolism. A dramatic wooden wall of robust carvings immortalises thefamily crests of a thousand Japanese family names in a celebration of authentic design.

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Oysters and Bubbles
At Village Bar in Starhill Gallery
Kuala Lumpur’s Feast Village, airflown Pacific oysters are paired
beautifully with Moët et Chandon or
sparkling wines from the New World.
The “Marriages Made in Heaven”
promotion is available daily fromnoon to midnight. For reservations,please call 03-2782 3852.

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life moments //Hokkaido

Days & Nights
The sights and tastes of Hokkaido are best enjoyedduring the summer months when the area opens up
to visitors from near and far. Experience the differing
personalities of this locale who inhabit city streets,rustic towns and postcard-perfect countryside.

Dazzling...Sapporo City by night.

A bustling market scene.
life moments //Restaurant-lined lane.

Priests taking a rest on the sidewalk..

A smiling resident.

life moments //A Japanese youth.
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life moment //The art of preserving smelt.
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life moments //Cherry blossoms.

life moment //Chef preparing
local delicacies.

summus enim es et non mutaris, nequeperagiturin teat quia
haberent
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Dic mihi
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summusentranceenim
to onees etof non
the mutaris,
city’s nequemanyperagiturfamousin teseafood
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in haberent vias Dic mihi
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life moments //Traditional paper lanterns.

Kimono-clad women.

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Fields of lavender.

life moment //A bowl of natto.

A renowned produce of the Hokkaido region.

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portfolio of life //Explore The Worldof YTL Hotels...

SHOOK! SHANGHAI AT THE
SWATCH ART PEACE HOTEL
CHINA

THE GREEN LEAF NISEKO VILLAGE
HOKKAIDO, JAPAN(Opening 2011)

Perched on a space of symmetry and proportion, Shook! Shanghaifeatures the skills of four epicurean chefs with four distinct cuisines.
A show kitchen – dubbed the ‘Ferrari’ of kitchens, is where its
signature dishes are created around the senses. The menu
flirts with seasonal trends with whispers of Chinese, Japanese,
Southeast Asian and modern Western, yet flexible enough totransport you anywhere your heart and palate desire. Anotherhighlight at Shook! Shanghai is the showcase of the world’s
finest wines and champagnes, including rare vintages from 1945
through 2000. Shook! Shanghai also houses The Time Bar and
The Swatch Art Peace Hotel Terrace on the roof top overlooking astunning backdrop of the Pudong skyline.

Located in the heart of Niseko Village in Hokkaido, the newly unveiled
The Green Leaf Niseko Village is the premium contemporary resort
in Niseko, appealing to guests who want to enjoy a seamlessexperience of stay, snow and ski. The 200 room ski-in, ski-out
resort is perfectly placed for all activities and a variety of dining
options including the Lookout Café and the hotel’s rooftop bar,
Altitude. Alternatively relax in the forested onsen, a therapeutic
natural volcanic hot spring guaranteed to soak away tension
and time.

The Swatch Art Peace Hotel Residences which YTL Hotels will
manage opens early 2011.

Tel: +86 (21) 6321 0021
www.shookrestaurantshanghai.com.cn

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Tel: +81 (0)136 44 3311
www.thegreenleafhotel.com

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portfolio of
portfolioof lifelife////HILTON NISEKO VILLAGE
JAPAN

Set at the foot of the Niseko Annupuri Mountain, the Hilton Niseko
Village is the perfect base from which to enjoy a huge variety ofoutdoor activities throughout the year. Ski on powdery slopes
during the winter season, and enjoy family-friendly facilities suchas the Niseko Ski Village ski school, Niseko Kids ski programme , aluxurious spa, and five restaurants.
There are also two 18-hole championship golf courses nearby(one designed by Arnold Palmer), a tennis complex, an equestriancentre and a unique nature-bases activity area called ‘PURE’
complete with tree-trekking and beginners golf.

Tel: +81 136441111
www.niseko-village.com

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portfolio of life //CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORTMALAYSIA

Set amidst tea plantations and rolling hills, this tranquil hideaway
promises visitors all the splendour, romance and nostalgia of
Cameron Highlands’ grand colonial heritage.
Cameron Highlands is Malaysia’s largest hill resort and is largely
unchanged since its colonial heyday, this ‘little corner of England in
Asia’ is still dotted with Tudor-style cottages, a place where scones
and afternoon tea will not seem out of place.
The resort with its tall French doors, timber-beamed ceilings,
plantation shutters and a fireplace add old-world charm to thesurroundings. It also houses a Spa Village as well as an eighteen
hole golf course and 56 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites
which weave in wondrous colours and textures of Jim Thompson’s
famous silks.

Tel: +60 3 2783 1000
www.cameronhighlandsresort.com

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portfolio of life //PANGKOR LAUT RESORTTHE ESTATES AT PANGKOR LAUT RESORT

Pangkor Laut is a privately owned island located three miles off thewest coast of Malaysia along the Straits of Malacca. This piece ofparadise has been 2 million years in the making, and it is here one
finds one of the world’s premier award-winning resorts nestling inthe shade of forest giants as old as the land.

In a small secluded cove near Pangkor Laut Resort rests the eight
wonders that comprise The Estates. Each of these individuallycrafted enclaves is reminiscent of the traditional south east Asianway of living of days gone by, when an ‘estate’ was made up of
a number of special purpose buildings placed amidst gardens ofastounding beauty.

MALAYSIA

There are no other resorts – just secluded bays curled aroundpristine beaches, evening skies woven with colour, and a deep
sense of serenity reserved exclusively for guests. A combinationof luxury, natural beauty and age-old wilderness woven together toproduce an environment where peace and magically memorable
moments are the currency.
Of the island’s 300 acres, only a fraction has been developed tohouse the resort and its eight estates. Wooden buildings blend
seamlessly with the forest as if nature had been the architect
dictating how walls curve around foliage, and roofs open up toallow trees to continue on their journey to the sky.

Tel: +60 3 2783 1000
www.pangkorlautresort.com

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Comprising two, three or four bedrooms, each Estate offers a private
infinity-edge pool, as well as pavilions in various adaptations of Malayarchitectural traditions.
There is also a private vehicle and driver assigned to each Estateshould guests decide to leave the seclusion of their villa to dine at oneof the resort’s restaurants or to go for a treatment at the Spa Village.

Tel: +60 3 2783 1000
www.pangkorlautestates.com

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portfolio of
portfolioof lifelife////THE MAJESTIC MALACCA
MALAYSIA

The historic city of Malacca is steeped in a rich tapestry ofmulticultural influences reflected in its heritage architecture, diverse
lifestyles and eclectic cuisine.
Located on the banks of the river which in yesteryear teemed with
Chinese junks and spice-laden vessels from all over the world, The
Majestic Malacca provides a glimpse into the splendid saga of an
extraordinary empire.
The Majestic Malacca is an integral part of Malacca’s colourfulhistory. The original serene mansion, dating back to the 1920s,
remains at the heart of the hotel, whilst a new building has beencreated, mirroring the original architecture, to house 54 spacious
rooms and suites.

portfolio of life //TANJONG JARA RESORTMALAYSIA

Located on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, Tanjong Jara
Resort is a sanctuary of luxury and well-being steeped in age-old
Malay traditions. Designed to reflect the elegance and grandeurof 17th Century Malay palaces, Tanjong Jara is a 99-room resort
embodiment of the gentle Malay art of service and hospitality.
The philosophy of the Resort is as unique as the Resort itself.
Based on the Malay concept of Sucimurni, which emphasises
purity of spirit, health and well-being, Tanjong Jara encourages true
rejuvenation of both body and spirit.
Tanjong Jara is an opportunity to withdraw from the pressures ofthis ever-changing world by offering a chance to immerse oneself
in a sanctuary of serenity and beauty.

From the original porcelain flooring, teakwood fittings, intricate
artwork and antiques, to the finely crafted Nyonya cuisine, every
aspect echoes the history of the region, and offers a beguilingjourney through this enchanting heritage.

Tel: +60 3 2783 1000
www.majesticmalacca.com

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Tel: +60 3 2783 1000
www.tanjongjararesort.com

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portfolio of life //JW MARRIOTT

THE RITZ-CARLTON

Guest rooms at JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur offer the ultimate in
comfort and convenience, designed with the discerning businesstraveller in mind. An ample work area with adjustable desk lighting
and ergonomic chair provides a comfortable environment for
executives. Desk-mounted electrical outlets, two-line speakertelephones with call-waiting facility, fax modem and voice mailmake for easy communication around the world.

Discover the exclusive Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur and experiencea place where ancient rivers converge and a modern city beckons
guests to explore the sights, sounds and flavours of Malaysia.
Located downtown in the Golden Triangle business district, this
distinctive five-star luxury hotel in Kuala Lumpur is conveniently
accessible to upscale shopping, dining and entertainment. At The
Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur, guests can indulge in soothing spa
treatments, delectable cuisine or simply relax in the exceptionalcomfort of their rooms and take in the best the city has to offer.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Accommodation comprises 561 guest rooms with 294 Deluxe
Kings, 172 Deluxe Twins, 25 Executive Deluxe Rooms, 19 Studio
Suites, 32 Junior Suites, 2 Executive Studio Suites, 2 Executive
Junior Suites, 8 one-bedroom Suites, 3 two-bedroom Suites, 2 VIP
Suites, a Chairman’s Suite and a luxurious Presidential Suite.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIAThe 29-storey hotel recently opened three new floors comprising
mainly suites with contemporary design and luxury fittings. Marriott
Marquis Platinum and Gold card members and guests occupying
suites enjoy access to the JW Lounge – with its complimentary
breakfast, light refreshments and evening cocktails.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur is the city’s first award-winning fullbutler hotel featuring 365 guest rooms and suites. The fresh style of
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur is influenced by a variety of themes
reflecting Malaysia’s diverse artistry of ethnic cultures. The dark
toned woods with angular designs reflect masculinity while details
like brass inlays add a touch of elegance. Rich earthy tones in the
carpet and wall coverings are used to create a cosy, warm homeaway-from-home ambience, while hidden modern technologies
add a modern yet subtle flair.

Tel: +60 3 2715 9000
www.marriott.com

Tel: +60 3 2142 8000
www.ritzcarlton.com

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VILL A TASSANA

portfolio of life //THE SURIN

PHUKET, THAIL AND

PHUKET, THAIL AND

Set amidst a tropical forest on a craggy cliff overlooking thebeautiful emerald green of the Andaman Sea is a gem on the YTL
Hotels portfolio of luxury holiday destinations. Located just 15
minutes away from Phuket International Airport on the island’s quiet,
undeveloped North Western coastline, Villa Tassana offers guests a
vacation of modern sophistication married with Thai hospitality.

The Surin Phuket offers guests a choice of 108 thatched cottages
that sit cosily under a canopy of coconut groves, where landscaped
slopes gently descend to meet a private stretch of sandy shore.

Spread over a generous 2,800 square metres, the villa features 3
large bedrooms with ensuite bath and dressing areas, a 15 metre
swimming pool, separate living and dining pavilions, a kitchen and amaid’s room. For those looking to get away from it all, Villa Tassana
is staffed by one dedicated attendant and a chef specialising indelicious home-style Thai dishes.

The appeal of the spacious 89 one-bedroom and 19 two-bedroom
cottages is further enhanced with private verandahs, secluded sun
decks, and handcrafted teak floors.
Renowned for its warm island hospitality and rustic serenity, The
Surin Phuket also provides spa services, dining venues, meeting
facilities and recreational activities. The Surin Phuket – a veritable
gateway to a tropical island paradise.

Guests can also enjoy the first-class spa and sports facilities
located at the nearby Trisara Hotel. There are three excellent golfcourses nearby, including the exclusive Blue Canyon course, anda range of luxury motor yachts available to explore Phuket’s many
bays, islands and dive locations.

Tel: +60 3 2783 1000

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Tel: +60 3 2783 1000
www.ytlhotels.com

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portfolio of life //SPA VILLAGE RESORTEASTERN &ORIENTAL EXPRESS

Dawn rises and an indigo curtain of stars is drawn back fromthe sky, exposing a dramatic landscape of soaring peaks thatsweep down across grassy lowlands to the black volcanic sandthat kisses the blue of the Bali sea. You are in Spa Village Resort
Tembok, Bali and the day has just begun.

The Eastern & Oriental Express is more than a train service: at its
maximum length the quarter of a mile in length train is a havenof comfort, style and luxury and the perfect vantage point fromwhich to tour the region. The Restaurant Cars, Saloon Car and Bar
Car are located at the centre of the train, while the Observation Car
with its open deck area is located at the rear.

TEMBOK, BALI, INDONESIA

Inspired by the award-winning Spa Village Pangkor Laut, Spa Village
Resort Tembok, Bali embraces the same healing ethos of celebrating
the local culture, honouring the ancient remedies of the region andinfusing each visit with the essence of the surrounding scenery.
Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is a place of peacefulness andcalm, combining the therapeutic value of its beautiful location withan ancient and rich cultural heritage. Reflecting the spirituality ofages the environment here is soft and serene; its people go about
their days in a caring manner that brings calm to the harried andpeace to the stressed; here, at Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali it ispossible to recapture one’s sense of self.

Tel: +60 3 2783 1000
www.spavillage.com

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The interior walls of the compartments are panelled with cherrywood and elm burr, with decorative marquetry friezes and intricate
design inlays.The delicate embroidery work was done in Malaysia,
and the bespoke carpets hand-tufted in Thailand. While guests
dine at night, the steward transforms the compartment from a livingroom to a luxurious bedroom.
Chefs onboard the E&O Express are internationally renowned fortheir tantalising variety of Eastern and European dishes, using thefinest fresh seasonal ingredients.

www.easternandorientalexpress.com

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portfolio of life //MUSE HÔTEL DE LUXE

BRAY HOUSE

Bardot would no doubt approve of Saint-Tropez newcomer, Muse
Hôtel De Luxe, just minutes from the Place de Lices by car, situatedon the stunning Ramatuelle ‘route de plages’ road set amongst an
ecological landscape of terraced gardens.

An elegant private home dating back to the late 17th century, Bray
House has been restored and transformed into an elegant, highdesign boutique home stay. Featuring an eclectic mix of interiors
spanning the Art Deco period of the early 1900s, Bray House is aunique experience of the gentrified English lifestyle complete withbespoke service and intimate atmosphere.

FRANCE

Fifteen ultra chic suites (ten featuring private plunge pools) arededicated to famous muses such as ‘Edith’, after Edith Piaf,‘Catherine’, after Catherine Deneuve and ‘Lauren’ after Lauren
Bacall. Each suite sports a unique interior but all blend seamlessly
with cool stone floors and mamorino wall finishes. Thoughtful
touches include a 42” Loewe plasma screen with over 100
channels, a PlayStation, iPad and iPhone.
Designed with pure lines, a cool elegant reception area and outdoor
water cascades, the hotel is a reflection of architectural simplicity,
immediately stamping its original and stylish signature on the SaintTropezian landscape.

Tel: +334 94 430 440
www.muse-hotels.com

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Designer furniture, vintage accessories and vivid splashes of colour
create an atmosphere that marries the modern and the classic.
Each of the bedrooms has its own theme: a lullaby of white or asymphony of Tuscany red in another. Bray House also features a
private courtyard and a natural spring found in the garden.
The idyllic village of Bray, near Windsor, is quintessentially English
with its period houses, traditional pubs with beamed ceilings andfireplaces and a beautifully restored church dating back to 1293.

Tel: +44 162 858 3505

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portfolio of life //portfolio of life //1. Spa Village Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia

This unique retreat offers the world’s most sophisticated therapies
integrated with traditional healing practices of the region. Paying
tribute to Malaysia’s fascinating cultural diversity and rich healing
heritage ,this most stylish of spas seamlessly blends ancient andmodern practices, using natural local ingredients to deliver blissful
relaxation and rejuvenation

2. Spa Village Tanjong Jara
Malaysia

At Spa Village Tanjong Jara, time-tested health and beauty traditions
are revived in the most comforting surrounds. Guests can benefit
from a comprehensive programme of therapies created using
unique ingredients from indigenous herbs and plants, along withthe skills of resident Malay healers.

1

3. Spa Village Malacca
Malaysia

The Spa Village Malacca is the world’s only spa to base its
therapies on the healing heritage of the Baba-Nyonya or Peranakan
culture – a unique combination of Chinese and Malay influences.
The spa is spread across the first two floors of the new wing andprovides a serene environment in which one can rest, recuperate
and rejuvenate in the care of some of the world’s best therapists.

4. Spa Village Cameron Highlands
Malaysia

Cameron Highlands Resort features the third wellness centreof the award-winning Spa Village brand with a wide range of
sophisticated treatments and healing therapies inspired by the
restorative properties of tea. Each guest luxuriates in a signature
tea bath before every treatment. Cameron Highlands Spa Village
offers tranquil indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, tea bath rooms
and a fully-equipped gymnasium.

5. Spa Village Pangkor Laut
Malaysia

24

3
5The Spa Village at Pangkor Laut Resort is a unique ultra-exclusive
retreat that extols the healing cultures of Malaysia’s diverse
history of people and cultures and vast abundance of exotic
natural resources. The abundance of Malay, Chinese, Indian andThai practices make this the ideal tranquil setting for complete
rejuvenation of body and soul.
Tel: +60 3 2783 1000
www.spavillage.com

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FEAST VILLAGE

portfolio of life //LOT 10KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIAKUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Feast till your heart is content in our Feast Village, a dramatic,stylish dining haven with a village charm. Here, you will find 11
uniquely designed restaurants serving a mix of world-class cuisineand providing a display of culinary skill embodied in a chic andcontemporary atmosphere.

An iconic architectural landmark since the 1990s, the shopping
and lifestyle destination, Lot 10, has undergone significant
renovation from its basement to its rooftop bringing in a new ageof modern style.

Restaurants and bars at Feast Village include Fisherman’s Cove,
Luk Yu Tea House, Pak Loh Chiu Chow, Tarbush, Sentidos Tapas,
Shook!, Jake`s Charbroil Steak, Vansh, KoRyo Won, Enak, My
Thai and Village Bar.
The design of Feast Village is inspired by nature. Walls areasymmetrical and serve not to separate, but rather to provide
peace enclaves where people may relax.

The Forest in The City theme is immediately apparent in theinspiring drama of the rooftop of Lot 10. Mature trees of dappled
barks and emerging foliage rise above manicured shrubs to greet
guests with a refreshing welcome of abundant green.
A dramatic landscape that emulates towering cliffs of overhanging
ferns and flora, and a variety of tropical plants against the skies ofKuala Lumpur serve as the stunning backdrop for a unique host ofurban lifestyle pursuits and experiences that are exclusive only to
Lot 10 at the rooftop.

Rice paper from Japan combines with slate and ikat fromIndonesia, granite from China, silk from Thailand, and timber on
Myanmar to create the essence of Asia from a design perspective,
making Feast Village truly one-of-a-kind.

Tel: +60 3 2782 3855
www.starhillgallery.com

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www.lot10.com.my

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TOGO chair. Design: Michel Ducaroy.
Catalogue: www.ligne-roset.com

my life //Hollywood
Confidential
Kathy Greenberg is a writer for both
television and films. Among others,
she wrote for Pixar Animation on the
Academy Award-winning, Ratatouille.
YTL Life caught up with her on her
recent visit to London for the premiereof her latest Elton John/Disneyanimation Gnomeo and Juliet starring
James McAvoy and Emily Blunt.
An indulgence of mine...is definitely the strongest cheese I canfind, and oh, red wine. I’m also a little obsessed with perfume andprobably spend more on that than anything else. I‘m a big fan of
Frédéric Malle’s range.
My favourite room would have to be...my dining room on a
Sunday afternoon with 12 people crammed around the table. I live
in an early 1900s rustic Italian house so the dining room has wood
beamed ceilings. And I love cooking for friends: nothing beats thesmell of garlic and onions simmering in a pan.
My personal style...I would say is bohemian; I like things that are
elegant and comfortable. And I love big chunky jewellery.
In my fridge you will find...lots of bacon, liver, lardons, butter,cheese (naturally); basically everything high in fat.
A lasting childhood memory...would be hiding under the table
during my mother’s raucous dinner parties. She liked to recreate
Julia Child’s recipes and someone would always end up, head
down in a rum cake, sleeping.
The people who inspired me the most...that’s hard but I reallyappreciate artists who challenge us in an absurdist way, fromMonty Python to Banksy to Ferran Adria’s liquid olives! And chefs,
in particular Daniel Rose at Spring in Paris and Thomas Keller.
When life doesn’t go my way...I try to laugh. A sense of humour
is key. I look at the bigger picture. Watching The Great Muppet
Caper also helps.

The books on my bedside table...right now I’m reading about
neuroplasticity in The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge,
about our brain’s incredible capacity. I think neuroscience isfascinating. Oliver Sacks stories are great on this. And Zombiekins(for work) – it’s a children’s book about stuffed animals that eat
brains. Oh, and Winnie the Pooh.
Can you be yourself in your work or do you have to play theindustry game? It’s a really fine line; you want to have an individual
voice and be edgy but you have to work with hundreds of people,
especially in animation; focused, intellectual, people. It’s a machine.
Your latest creation Gnomeo and Juliet appeals to all ages,
doesn’t it? Yes, there’s a wee bit of blue humour to catch the adultaudience and go over the heads of the children. There’s enoughto keep the grown-ups interested; it’s cute, really romantic andthe animation’s beautiful. It’s very different to my next project The
Gaggle, an adult romantic comedy.
I’d like to travel to...India. I haven’t been yet and I’d love to go. Bali
is a favourite place of mine, also New York and Paris, where I’ve justcome from. LA is great but you are driving around in your car thewhole time – all your experiences are then of your own choosing
whereas in Paris, you can wander and just come across things.
If I wasn’t doing what I’m doing now...I would make cheese. I
would have loved to have been a chef. Also I love textiles; everything
about them: hoarding them, making things, dyeing stuff. I also likecollecting drawers of little scraps of fabrics. I’d just spend my timetaking them out and looking at them.
My favourite way to relax...would be to go to one of YTL Hotels'
Spa Villages in Malaysia.

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Exclusively at Starhill Gallery, Muse Floor, Unit FF1, 181 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : +603-2710 3388 Fax : +603-2710 3807 Email : ligneroset@starhillgallery.com