Puttin' On
The Ritz

The Reopeningof an Icon

The
Glamorous
Life

Julien Macdonald
on StyleSun, Sea &Strength

The Chapman's
Challenge Comes
to Pangkor LautHistorical Cameron Highlands • Wellness in Bali • Gainsborough+Gourmet

Contents
1830Life Events

they explore and experience theirfavourite things about and aroundthe UNESCO-listed city.

Life Bites

38 Sometimes, you just need abreak from the grind of modern
life. Here, at Gaya Island Resort
and Tanjong Jara Resort, you canreconnect with a simpler and morerelaxed world with their uniquesignature experiences that give
you an insight into the magic andspirit of the locale.

09 A round up of parties and events inthe world of YTL.

16 Hot happenings at YTL Hotels.

Life on the Cover

18 The curtain rises for that
iconic beacon of luxury,
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur,
following a complete revamp tooffer new levels of bespoke service.

Life Features

30 For Malaysian celebrity coupleabout-town, television host Xandria
Ooi and composer-producer Yuri
Wong, The Majestic Malacca holds
a special place in their hearts: partly
as it’s in Yuri’s hometown and,primarily, because it set the scene
for their picture-perfect wedding ve
years ago. YTL Life follows them as

44 March marks the start of the diving
season on the East Coast ofPeninsular Malaysia and there is no
better place than this jewel of anisland off Terengganu.
46 We all need Vitamin-Sea! Here’s
a short and sweet guide to somebasic snorkelling dos and don’ts.

50 Niseko enthusiasts, rejoice!
Summer’s here and, in celebrationof the rst time The Green Leaf
Niseko Village stays open during
the green season, come enjoy
a wide range of activities andmenus that celebrate the best of
unbeatable Hokkaido produce.
52 The Solianos continue a time
honoured musical legacy asa family with the sounds ofyesterday at The Majestic Hotel
Kuala Lumpur.
56 It’s easy to get awed by thecolossal frames of elephants.
There’s so much more to them,
however, than meets the eye
as YTL Life learns after getting
up close and personal with
Terengganu’s gentle giants.

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When making the rounds in Bath,don’t forget to check out the gems
that are The Little Theatre Cinema
and the Theatre Royal Bath.

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Nearly half a century on, thedisappearance of Thai Silk King Jim
Thompson remains an enduring
mystery in the verdant settings of
Cameron Highlands.

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Follow in the footsteps of thelegendary Colonel Freddy Spencer
Chapman at The Chapman's
Challenge, scheduled to takeplace at YTL’s Pangkor Laut Resortfrom 13 to 15 May 2016.

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Beautiful Life

Accentuate your dress sense withthese luxurious ornaments.
Nobody goes glamour like Julien
Macdonald. For the first time, these
iconic designs were showcased
together with the magnificent
timepieces of A Journey ThroughTime IX.

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68 Playing safe is long gone. It’s time
to bring out your inner diva withthese daring fashion choices.
70 The recent edition of A Journey
Through Time, had a stylish twist to
it when acclaimed British designer,
Julien Macdonald, presented eight
new creations, designed exclusively
for the event and inspired by theunique beauty of Malaysia, andphotographed at the new-look
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.

Life Cuisine

82 Dining at Johann Lafer at The
Gainsborough is among the myriad
pleasures on offer at the UNESCOWorld Heritage Site of Bath.

Spa Life

78 Indulge yourself with these must-try
fragrance and skincare products.
94 Why a session of sensory soundbathing at Spa Village Kuala
Lumpur could be music to yourears… and balm for your body.

96 The Island of the Gods is theperfect destination if you’researching for a haven in which
to rejuvenate and recharge.
YTL Life speaks to Savitri
Talahatu, the Wellness Directorof YTL Hotels’ Spa Village Resort
Tembok, Bali to find out what’s
new to experience while there.

Life Guide

100 Cameron Highlands has longheld the distinction of being
Malaysia’s premier hill station andpreferred retreat from the tropicaltemperatures. Here, amidst the
emerald, cloud-swathed hills, lie
gushing waterfalls, nature trails, tea
plantations and numerous historicallandmarks that stand proud in thecrisp cool air. Terence Waller, Resort
Manager of Cameron Highlands
Resort, shares his favourite things
about life high above the valley floor.

Portfolio Of Life106 Explore the world of YTL Hotels.

Editorial Team
Editor-in-Chief
Diana Khoo
Associate Editor
Christy Yoong

Art
Creative Director
Eireen Ooi

T h e

Y T L

L u x u r y

M a g a z i n e

Art Director
Penny Chew
Editorial Assistant
Kirat Kaur Santokh Singh

Published By
YTL Hotels & Properties Sdn Bhd
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55, Jalan Bukit Bintang,
55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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A Note fromTan Sri (Dr) Francis Yeoh
The lengendary Irving Berlin might have composed andpenned the great melody that is Puttin’ On the Ritz, but that’s
certainly how all of us feel at YTL Hotels right now. The
renovation, refreshment and complete luxurious refurbishment of
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur is certainly a great way to start
the year. One of Malaysia’s most iconic properties, located rightin the heart of its famed retail and recreational ‘Golden Triangle’, I
invite you to come explore and enjoy the new face and offeringsof this grande dame.

Tan Sri (Dr) Francis Yeoh
Managing Director,
YTL Corporation

Venturing further aeld, there are also other YTL Hotels within
the Group that might just catch your fancy. Be it for workor play, although we’d much rather recommend the latter,
there’s a property to suit your every need. Learn more about
the gentle giants of Kenyir Elephant Conservatory that is not
at all far from Tanjong Jara Resort, or soak up the old world
charm of modern-day Malacca at The Majestic Malacca.
Order a signature cocktail and enjoy the ambience at The
Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, while being serenaded
by the music of the Solianos – Malaysia’s preeminent
musical family – or step back in time and soak up thewaters of ancient Bath, just like the Romans did, at The
Gainsborough Bath Spa, our biggest and brightest UK
property to date, and still the only place in the United
Kingdom to enjoy thermal bath waters within the
comfort and luxury of your hotel.

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Fare
Thee Well
It was a bittersweet night as the who’s who of
Malaysia’s diplomatic and corporate societies
congregated at the banquet hall of The Ritz-Carlton,
Kuala Lumpur, to bid farewell to the immensely
popular HRH Norodom Arunrasmy, the long-serving
Ambassador of Cambodia, Dean of the Diplomatic
Corps and daughter of the late King Norodom
Sihanouk, who returns to the Kingdom after an
extensive tour of duty abroad. Accompanied byher husband, HE Keo Puth Reasmey, the event
was also graced by her daughter, who performed adelightful Cambodian dance, much to the delight of
the guests.
1. S Radhakrishnan and HE Manuel Guzman, Ambassador ofVenezuela and new Dean of the Diplomatic Corps.
2. Bussarin Parhar and Hunsa Eakturapakal. 3. Dato’ Robert Teo
and HE Luc Vandebon, Ambassador of the European Union.
4. HE Archbishop Joseph Salvador Marino, Apostolic Nuncioof the Holy See, and HE Lourdes Puma Puma, Ambassadorof Ecuador. 5. HE J Eduardo Malaya, Ambassador of thePhilippines, and Dr Cinzia Giordanelli-Kohlrieser. 6. Dato’ Yeoh
Soo Min, Tan Sri Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria, HE Keo Puth
Reasmey and HRH Princess Norodom Arunrasmy.
7. Dato’ Dr Devan Pillay and Datin Dr Kalpna Maghji Patel.
8. Zhao Shumei and HE Huang Huikang, Ambassador of China.
9. Tan Sri Munir Majid. 10. HE Christophe Penot, Ambassador of
France, Dr Pio Trippa, HE Maria Isabel Rendon, Ambassador ofArgentina, and Yukimi Penot.

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Fashion | Watch

life events //

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Of High Times
And High Notes
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Asia’s premier watch, jewellery and lifestyle showcase, A Journey Through Time IX,
came to a magnificent conclusion at the JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur with theTourism and Culture Gala Night: Watch and Jewellery of the Year Awards Presentation
2015. The evening gala was the culmination of an eight-day affair, featuring a seriesof curated events from over 125 international watch, jewellery and lifestyle brands thatdrew connoisseurs, fashionistas and Malaysian high society. Apart from the awards,
the evening gala also featured critically acclaimed British mezzo soprano Carly Paoli
and renowned Italian tenor Alessandro Safina, who stunned the star-studded crowd
with their vocal prowess.
1. Dr Bernard Cheong and Tan Sri Dr Francis Yeoh, Group Managing Director of YTL Corporation.
2. HE VictoriaTreadell, British High Commissioner, Dato’ Yeoh Soo Min and Tan Chien Chyi. 3. Gianni
Stagi and Naïla Mazzucco. 4. Alex Yoong and Emitsa Shirazi. 5. Simone Teh and Dr Paolo Conconi.
6. Su Jia Xian, Thierry Gasquez, and Dr Bernard Cheong. 7. Milo Muhle, Mandy Muhle, Charmaine
Low, Christine Hutler and Rainer Hutler. 8. Carly Paoli and Alessandro Safina. 9. Laura Teo, Adeline
Choong, Freda Liu and Jessie Low.

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Teatime
Tunes

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It was a musical time at Starhill Gallery recently when
Newens Tea House welcomed specially invited
guests to an afternoon tea hosted by Wells Cathedral
School. The usual tinkling music was replaced by thehauntingly beautiful melodies of the cello and piano,
played by three of the school’s specialist musicians– Cameron Goon, Ian Lum and Julian Chan. Former
students and their families enjoyed a mini reunion,
while future pupils and their parents familiarised
themselves with one of the oldest extant schools
in the world. The event, supported by the British
Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (BMCC), wasanother partnership between Britain and Malaysia
to bring forth a new generation of musical talents.
1. Mark Coote, CEO of The Wells Cathedral School Foundation,
Elizabeth Cairncross, Head of Wells Cathedral School, and Mark
Stringer, Director of Music of Wells Cathedral School. 2. Gan
Yee Why, Samantha Lum and Jane Lum. 3. Ng Mei Fong and
Thean Thin Ming. 4. Tan Poh Joo and Tan Poh Kim. 5. Stephen
Hodgson and Audrey Choo. 6. Cameron Goon playing the
piano. 7. Ian Lum on the cello. 8. Andrew J Dalton, Nik Tasha
Nik Kamaruddin and David Mumford.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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hills and the nearby 18-hole golfcourse, hungry guests can opt
to whet their appetites at thenumerous food and beveragevenues available throughout theresort. Those looking to indulge
in a spot of afternoon tea canhead to the Jim Thompson
Tea Room which offers a lovely
array of homemade scones,
delectable sandwiches andpretty pastries complemented
by a variety of warming teassourced from the very sameplantations that carpet thevalleys in Cameron Highlands.
For more savoury delights,
a taste of the heart-warming
hotpot offerings found at Gonbei
is simply the best way to stave
off the evening chill. But ofcourse, no festive experience
could possibly be complete

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Christmas At
Cameron’s
Located a mere four hours
away from the busy city of Kuala
Lumpur sits the tranquil and cosy
hideaway known as Cameron
Highlands Resort. Set amidst anatural wonderland of lush greenery
peppered with charming Tudorstyle cottages, this peaceful retreat
presents a perfect opportunity toexperience a memorable Christmas
weekend unlike any other. During
the holiday season, the colonialstyle resort transforms into amajestic wonderland complete34with a vibrant display of blooming
poinsettias, delectable gingerbreadhouses, ornamental Christmas
trees, roaring fireplaces and sparkly
fairy lights strung on the magnificent
pine trees that line the resort
driveway that twinkle to life during
the resort’s annual Christmas Tree
Lighting ceremony.
After being greeted by the most
gracious of welcomes and exploring
the picturesque grounds, which
includes magnificent views of rollingwithout sampling the fabulous,
four-course Christmas dinnerserved at the Dining Room.

1. The grand entrance of Cameron Highlands Resort sparkled to life withhundreds of twinkling fairy lights. 2. Guests had a wonderful time dining whilesurrounded by beautiful ower arrangements. 3. Vanessa Tevi, Miss Universe
Malaysia 2015, and Guest-Of-Honour Carey Ng, Miss Universe Malaysia 2013.
4. Khoo Cai Mei and Jason Lim. 5. Valencia-Aged Balsamic Glazed Duck Breast
with Gingerbread Crumbs and Foie Gras. 6. Beetroot-Cured Petuna Salmon
Trout, Cont of Navel Orange and Granny Smith Mustard Sauce. 7. Natasya
Falina, Lim Yung, Terence Waller, Georgina Chang, Sunita Chhabra, Jen Tan
and Ben Quah. 8. Cecilia Yong and Jeremy Teo. 9. Antoine Commare andMichelle Sagan. 10. Guests had a blast singing along to classic Christmas songs
performed by the Versus Choir group. 11. Heather Wilson. 12. Michelle Sagan,
Julie Goh, Antti Ruohonen and Tom Sullivan.

Cameron Highlands Resort
also boasts a variety of funfilled activities designed torefresh the senses and relievestress. Highlights include the
Jim Thompson Mystery Trail,an educati onal gui ded tour
which explores the mysteriesof the nearby misty forests;
and pampering sessions at theaward-winning Spa Village whichis renowned for its soothing, teainspired spa treatments. And even
if one decides to spend mostof the weekend basking in the
comforts of the resort’s relaxing
rooms or suites, rest assured that
this experience will be one worth
reliving for many years to come.

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life events //1

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A LEGACYOF MUSIC

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Family and friends of the late music legend,
Alfonso Soliano, got together at The Refinery
in D6 Sentul East, Kuala Lumpur, recently forthe launch of Alfonso Soliano – His Legacy,a pictorial exhibition celebrating the life andtimes of the patriarch of Malaysia’s greatest
living musical family. The launch was ofciatedby Dato’ Mark Yeoh in the presence of HE
J Eduardo Malaya, the Ambassador of thePhilippines, and Dato’ Johari Salleh.

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1. Tan Bee Hong, Tan Bee Wei, Tan Bee Teing and Renee
Tan. 2. The musical Soliano family. 3. Isabella Soliano,
Cynthia Soliano, Irene Soliano and Sasa Soliano. 4. Suzie
Ibrahim and Haz Hisan. 5. Tristano Soliano, Rizal Soliano,
Connie Soliano and Don Soliano. 6. Rachel Guerzo andAudrey Soliano. 7. Chang Fee Ming. 8. Dato’ Johari Salleh,
Isabella Soliano, Professor Hanae Iman, Dato’ Mark Yeohand HE J Eduardo Malaya.

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Masters Of
Entrepreneurship
In an evening that celebrated the best of enterprise, Datuk Tan Say Jim, Group Managing
Director and Group CEO of IRIS Corporation Bhd, was judged the best of the best to
become the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015 Malaysia. The glittering event, held at The
Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, attracted a veritable who’s who of the Malaysian businessscene and also honoured the achievements of Timothy Tiah, COO of Netccentric Group, in
the Emerging Entrepreneur category, Liew Choon Lian, Group Chairman and CEO of MDT
Innovations Sdn Bhd (Technology Entrepreneur) and Jerrene Pang, Executive Director of
Coolblog Group of Companies (Woman Entrepreneur). Datuk Tan, who also won the Master
Entrepreneur category award, will now spearhead the claims of Malaysia at the EY World
Entrepreneur Of The Year event, which will be held in Monte Carlo in June.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

1. Dato’ Sri Mustafa Mohamed, Minister of International Trade & Industry. 2. Harvinder Singh Sidhu, Paul Tan and
Lee Jiun Ying. 3. Philip Satish Rao, Goh Peng Ooi, Datuk Ali Abdul Kadir, Tan Sri Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria,
Datuk Tan Say Jim, Dato’ Rauf Rashid, Jerrene Pang, Liew Choon Lian and Timothy Tiah. 4. Aileen Chan and Lim
Siang Wee. 5. Tan Sri AK Nathan and Dato’ Ir Muhamad Guntor Mansor Tobeng. 6. Lyn Siew and Ian Chong.
7. Yee Tsai Siew, Dexter Lau and Lim Poh Yit. 8. Law King Hui, Christine Chea, Law Yi Chian and Law En Zhen.
9. Benjamin Yong, Ming Ne Tan, Sherin Wong, Bobby Ting and Lyndon Felix.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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life bites //

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With a freshly inked deal between YTL Hotels
and Marriott International, the splendourand sophistication of The Ritz-Carlton
experience will soon be coming to thepristine white beaches of Koh Samui and allseason Niseko Village of Hokkaido, Japan.
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui will be an
exquisite 187-roomed hotel in Plai Laem,surrounded by the emerald green watersof the Gulf of Thailand. Spectacular viewsof the great Mount Yotei, rened Japaneseculture and exclusive ski access are set
to delight guests at the new Ritz-Carlton
Reserve in Niseko Village, which would
be the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve, not onlyin Japan, but North Asia as well. Thoughthese highly anticipated hotels are only set
to open within the next two to ve years, we
say there’s no such thing as planning yournext vacation too early!

The Gainsborough Bath Spa, the only
hotel in the UK providing privileged accessto Bath’s natural thermal waters has justbeen given a spot in Travel + Leisure’s
It List 2016: The Best New Hotels on
the Planet. Joining an impressive list of
beautifully designed and unique hotels insome of the best cities in the world, The
Gainsborough Bath Spa impressed theeditorial team with its tranquil settingsand stunning interiors by Champalimaud
Design – hardly surprising, seeing how
the limestone building’s intriguing history
and Georgian features are honoured inthis 99-roomed hotel. However, it was the
spectacular spa that set this hotel apart.
Fed with the mineral-rich waters of thecity’s thermal springs, it allows guests to
do like the Romans and oat dreamily while
enjoying the water’s healing powers.

Alluring Visions

The ‘It’ Factor

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Having always nurtured the environment
around it, it's no surprise that Gaya Island
Resort, off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, inSabah, won Best in Protection of Natural
Areas & Wildlife Conservation at the Ninth
Wild Asia Responsible Tourism Awards,
for its careful consideration of the local
environment and biodiversity, while actively
supporting and protecting their natural
resources. Gaya Island Resort led thepack with its winning formula of seamlessly
integrating luxury with the natural world.
Guests get to engage with the island’s rareora and fauna in a series of environmental
programmes designed to educate andconserve the resort’s natural assets.
Students from surrounding schools arealso taught the importance of preserving
the environment through the Gaya Island
Resort Marine Centre.

There’s nothing more romantic thandining in the moonlight, under the stars.
As crooned by Frank Sinatra, “The stars
are aglow and tonight how their light sets
me dreaming. My love, do you know thatyour eyes are like stars brightly beaming?”
Tanjong Jara Resort offers couples
the enchanting Dining on the Rocks
experience set on the rocks by the resort’s
golden sand beach that, symbolically,
represents the rock-solid bond between
them. Couples can relish each other’scompany while enjoying a delectable vecourse meal of fresh seafood sourced
from the South China Sea. A truly private
experience for one couple each evening,
it promises to be a dreamy evening of loveand romance.

It Comes Naturally

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Moonlight Serenade

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If you’re planning your dream wedding,then Pangkor Laut Resort is the only
place to have it. The private island resort
was awarded Asia’s Leading Wedding
Venue at the recent World Travel Awards
Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony 2015.
With a bewitching blend of sun, whitesands, sapphire-blue sea and lush
rainforest, you and your signicant other will
have an enchanting wedding lled with loveand beauty. Couples can choose between
four bespoke experiences – the signature
Wedding at the Sea, Pangkor Laut Beach
Wedding, Lantern Courtyard Wedding andWedding at the Estates – to tie the knot
in nuptials no one will ever forget. Herecomes the perfect wedding!

Small Luxury Hotels of the World has
welcomed another two YTL Hotels, MUSE
St Tropez in France and the Kasara
Niseko Village Townhouse in Japan, to
its collection of exclusive and independent
hotels. Basking in the glamour of theFrench Riviera, MUSE St Tropez enchantswith its luxurious suites weaving throughthe award-winning ecological and selfsustainable garden designed by Sophie
Agata Ambroise. Kasara Niseko Village
Townhouse is an elegant fusion of authentic
Japanese heritage and charm, and is therst SLH property at a Japanese ski resort.
Selected for their stunning individuality andworld-class amenities, SLH properties
deliver unforgettable experiences.

Wedded Bliss

In Good Company

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

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life on the cover //Puttin'on theRitz

The curtain rises for an iconic
beacon of luxury in the heartof Kuala Lumpur, following astylish refurbishment to offer
new levels of bespoke service.
Text Chin Mui Yoon Photography Edmund Lee

For over 18 years, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur has been aluxurious home away from home for thousands of well-heeled
guests from all over the world, including members of royalfamilies, international celebrities, corporate leaders and heads ofstate. Set in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and steps away from thebustle, upscale boutiques and skyscrapers of the city’s Golden
Triangle, the hotel has long commanded an enviable address.
From lavish weddings and gala events to countless anniversaries,
proposals and special dinners, this iconic beacon of style andluxury has carved a cherished place in the hearts and memories
of its guests. Every guest who walks into The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala
Lumpur has come to expect an extraordinary level of personal
service with genuine care and attention. The hotel consistently
aims to set new benchmarks in its legendary service andexceptional facilities.
In tune with a global re-mastering of a much-loved, awardwinning hotel brand, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur has unveiled
a complete refurbishment of all its 364 guestrooms and suites,
restaurants, spa and public spaces.

Evolution Of A Classic

When The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur first opened at 168 Jalan
Imbi, it was hailed as the country’s first truly luxury boutique

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life on the cover //hotel, with bespoke butler service and a level of perfectionthat was previously unseen. Its discreet lobby was a classic
of its own, while its restaurants were included in every culinary
connoisseur’s itinerary.
Even then, the hotel was setting new benchmarks in hospitality,
very much in line with the hotel brand in offering unmatchedstandards. After all, one of the earliest Ritz-Carlton hotels in
Boston had revolutionised hospitality in America in 1940 bycreating luxury in a hotel setting that included a private bath ineach guestroom; white tie and apron uniforms for the waitstaff,
black tie for the maître d’ and morning suits for all other staff –
conducive to a formal, professional appearance; extensive freshowers throughout the public areas; á la carte dining, providing
choices for diners and gourmet cuisine, utilising the genius andcooking methods of Auguste Escofer.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur continues setting new standards
today. The task of refurbishing such a beloved hotel was aptly
given to Alexandra Champalimaud and her atelier of designers.

“Every guest who walks
into The Ritz-Carlton,
Kuala Lumpur has cometo expect an extraordinarylevel of personal service
with genuine care andattention. The hotel
consistently aims to set
new benchmarks in its
legendary service andexceptional facilities.”

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life on the cover //Clockwise from left: Opulent marble
bathrooms with Asprey amenities;
the guestrooms and suites are detailed
in luxurious linens and soothing neutrals.

The New York-based studio is known for inculcating a high levelof historic relevance and knowledge in its work on some of themost renowned hotels in the world, including The Dorchester in
London and The Pierre in New York. The company also createddesign concepts for the historic Gainsborough Bath Spa and
The Green Leaf Niseko Village in Hokkaido, both part of the YTL
Hotels portfolio.
“Good design begins with an exceptional story; our studiois dedicated to expressing the individual character of eachspace through extraordinary design,” Champalimaud explains
to YTL Life. “We have partnered with YTL Hotels to createa distinctive property, transforming context and heritage into
compelling stories and unparalleled experiences. As wedevelop the hotel’s unique expression, we consider all theelements that define a space – history, setting, purpose and,above all, people. The new design for The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala
Lumpur is contemporary while celebrating the hotel’s locationand catering to the busy, vibrant and important clientele. The
sense of place and luxury has been redefined to engage
modern world authenticity, attention to detail and quality ofmaterials. Richly detailed screens and beautiful marble
throughout the hotel are new signature decorative elements.

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Furnishings and fabrics are rich and luxuriously appointed, andspeak to the quality of the property and the brand.”The bespoke luxury that goes with The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala
Lumpur begins at the airport where a guest is personally
met for the transfer to the city, alighting at a impressive new
porte cochère that offers a distinctive sense of arrival in thiscosmopolitan city. A contemporary lobby and reception
experience has been integrated into the existing building toprovide a sense of grand, open spaces throughout. A notablechange from the previous entrance is the stylish and elegant
ambience created by the new high ceilings in the public spaces,
invoking a sense of drama and place.
Gleaming marble floors and walls across an expansive lobby
are layered with contrasting metal detailing that seamlessly
combines to create a contemporary design with a nod to theclassical. Groupings of fine furniture and clever lighting balancea classic look with rich and vibrant materials to further enhance
the public spaces; creating a mood of understated elegance.
New escalators lead guests to The Lobby Lounge, The Patisserie
and The Library on the first floor. These new graceful rooms andsignature spaces create the perfect setting to conduct casual
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life on the cover //meetings between business associates or among friends. Theirlocation now conveniently and seamlessly connects guests tothe adjoining Starhill Gallery.
“As the brand looks forward, so does the design of The RitzCarlton, Kuala Lumpur,” Champalimaud further explains. We buildon the traditions of this iconic brand while delivering a beautiful
hotel that is worldly, modern and respectful of the past, but
condently looking forward.”
The luxurious and refreshed guestrooms and suites capture theserenity of a sophisticated hotel in the hub of a dynamic city,
marking the beginning of what will become an extraordinary
and memorable experience for every guest. A palette of soft,sophisticated neutrals works with new furnishings to provide
cocoons of comfort. Expansive windows command views of theKuala Lumpur skyline or the hotel’s landscaped swimming pool.
A wall-mounted at screen television offers 24-hour cable andsatellite channels with movies, while a full-sized desk caters totoday’s business traveller.

A lively and interactive breakfast experienceawaits guests at The Cobalt Room, with
its elegant leather banquet seats bathed innatural sunlight complete with live cooking
theatre; The Patisserie's diverse offerings
include delectable sweet treats.

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Comfortable beds boast brand new fine linens, and feather
and down comforters while opulent marble bathrooms with
exclusive Asprey bath amenities and other thoughtful touches
complete the requirements for a divine retreat.
And, of course, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur’s signature butler
service around the clock delivers every request with the touch of
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life on the cover //The time honoured
tradition of Afternoon
Tea is served withair and music at
The Lobby Lounge.

a single button on the telephone. From unpacking and packing,shoeshine and car transfers, to organising the perfect itinerary for
shopping, dining and entertainment, these highly trained butlers
add an integral edge to a perfect stay.

Celebrating Culinary Excellence

Through the years, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur has carved
its own niche in gastronomic experiences through its portfolioof ne restaurants that have hosted many momentous events.
In contrast to the soft, relaxing ambiance of the guestrooms
and suites, the restaurants are imbued with energy, where they
are envisioned to become hubs of culinary dynamism in a city
already famed for its cuisine.
Guests at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur start off their day witha vibrant breakfast experience at The Cobalt Room. This elegant,
expansive space, awash with natural sunlight streaming in fromlarge windows, offers a delightful gastronomic experience. The
restaurant showcases local and international avours, with diverse‘theatre’ or food stations offering cooked-to-order preparations
from organic ingredients catering to each guest’s tastes.

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Sunday afternoons in Kuala Lumpur will never be the same again
with the sumptuous Sunday Brunch that is interactive and lively.
The hotel’s glorious spreads of signature roasts on handcrafted
trolleys are featured with fresh seafood displays, homemade
pastas cooked à la minute, artisanal cheeses, decadent desserts
and free flow of premium champagne and wine to toast to adelightful time with family and friends amidst live music.
The iconic, award-winning Cantonese restaurant Li Yen continues
serving its daily dim sum lunch accompanied by a wide selectionof premium traditional Chinese teas. In the evenings, Chinese
feasts may be enjoyed in this harmonious, elegant space, while ayangqing harpist entertains.
For lighter meals, The Patisserie serves up the offerings and moodof an intimate Viennese patisserie with a modern twist. Guests
can enjoy lunches of Niçoise Salad with Lobster Chowder; adecadent Poached Duck Egg and Trufe Sabayon; Parpadellein Slow Cooked Lamb Ragout or a selection of savoury quiches
and pies. In The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur style, a burger
served here is created with nothing less than premium waygu
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life on the cover //Clockwise, from top: The swimming
pool offers a welcome respite; thesignature Ritz Fizz; cocoons of rest
and relaxation at The Spa Village with
luxurious award winning treatments.

enhances the ambience while guests partake of the time-honoured
ritual of Afternoon Tea.
A new feature is The Library, which is beautifully designed withwood panelling and floors for a relaxing yet stylish ambience. An
extensive collection of books, with topics ranging from film andtheatre to art and travel, is on hand for contemplative pleasure. A
beverage programme also celebrates classically focused cocktails
alongside a vintage cognac and whiskey library and fine winesfrom around the world. The Ritz Fizz, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala
Lumpur’s signature cocktail, dating back to 1934, is the perfectdrink in hand to wind down the day. You may also choose froma selection of fine wines, cognac or Armagnac served alongside
a tantalising dinner from the Menu Du Jour. A choice of premium
cigars is available from The Smoke Room.

Stylish Occasions

beef layered with seared foie gras, offered alongside a choice ofKing Crab Wrap and The Ritz-Carlton Club Sandwich with lobsterand grilled beef bacon. Guests can relax to soothing afternoon
melodies while sampling a perfect assortment of delicious cakes,
cookies, macarons, chocolate pralines and light gourmet fare,savoured with a choice of specialty coffees or freshly brewed
teas. In addition, guests can take home a sweet memory from theselection of baked goods in the hotel’s signature packaging that
also makes ideal gifts.
Perhaps the most awaited feature remains The Ritz-Carlton’s
beloved Afternoon Teas. These may now be relished in the new
Lobby Lounge, a truly elegant and rened space on the rst oor,with marble floors and stylish furnishings crowned by a goldleafed ceiling. Moments of serenity and reflection or cherishedtime spent with friends and families could be enjoyed here
alongside business meetings. A choice of 40 luxury teas from
Ronnefeldt accompanies the delicious offerings for tea. The RitzCarlton, Kuala Lumpur Blend is exclusively crafted for the hotel,
made from a delicately refreshing green Oolong Tie Guan Yin, atea served to royalty since the Tang dynasty. This unique blend
has a subtle flavour, and effectively captures the essence ofEastern and Western tea drinking traditions. The Lobby Lounge
speaks of conversations and the pure enjoyment of the moment
through carefully crafted coffees and teas with light fare. Live music

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A newly introduced Chef-On-Call is available for bespoke
corporate or private affairs, making for truly memorable events.
This is a fabulous private dining concept available for events thatcall for The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur’s touch of distinction andmeticulous consideration. This may be requested throughout
the hotel, served by the guest’s very own Chef, Butler andHostess. The service enhances a portfolio of choices for classy
business meetings and corporate functions, accompanied by
impeccable hospitality and attention to detail synonymous with
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur. A varied food and beverage
option is offered, including special themed breaks and meetingpackage lunches available at the Feast Village at Starhill Gallery.
Naturally, the hotel is also the city’s most desirable address fora wedding venue for the ultimate in romantic dates. From bridal
showers and martini nights for bachelor parties to lavish feasts
and romantic interludes, every wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala
Lumpur is a signature experience to start off a special journey.
The hotel’s multiple award-winning Spa Village, which has sparked
off many trends and traditions in the world of wellness, has also
been rejuvenated. This urban oasis draws upon a rich heritage ofancient remedies, and features modern facilities complemented
by steam rooms, outdoor baths and a beautifully landscapedswimming pool. Spa Village Kuala Lumpur continues to offer an
integrated approach to a wellness journey with a menu of therapies
and a newly designed Sensory Sound Bath Room, which is the
only one of its kind in Asia.
Revamped, Refreshed, Relaunched The Ritz-Carlton,
Kuala Lumpur Puttin' on The Ritz! For more details on the
newly refurbished The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur, go to
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/malaysia/kuala-lumpur
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life feature //life feature //Weekend
Magic In
Malacca

For Malaysian celebrity couple-about-town,
television host Xandria Ooi and composerproducer Yuri Wong, The Majestic Malacca holds
a special place in their hearts: partly as it’s inYuri’s hometown and, primarily, because it set thescene for their picture-perfect wedding ve years
ago. YTL Life follows them around one weekend
as they explore and experience their favourite
things about and around the UNESCO-listed city.
Photography Robin Liew

Be it dining at The Mansion
restaurant or indulging in predinner drinks at the old world
bar, you'll experience the best
the historical town has to offer
at The Majestic Malacca.

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life feature //integral part of auspicious ceremonies in
Chinese and Peranakan cultures, and thesweetness of the tea is a symbol of the
happy memories to come.

Saturday

1000HRS – An easy two-hour drive from
Kuala Lumpur, the historical gem thatis the UNESCO World Heritage Site ofMalacca is the perfect place for a weekend
getaway! The city that gave rise to thesplendour of the Malaccan Sultanate andonce the most important port of call along
the legendary ‘spice route’ of Asia, a visit
to Malacca now is a little like stepping
through the looking glass and going backin time. The only place to stay, of course, is
at The Majestic Malacca – a mansion thatwas once the home of Leong Long Man,a Chinese tycoon who commissioned the
grand home in the 1920s. Having been
resurrected by YTL Hotels, it opened asa luxury hotel under the group’s bannerin December 2007. “I love everything
about the hotel,” says Xandria Ooi. “Thearchitecture and beautiful mix of traditionaland Western elements is something to see
and experience, from the rooms to theclaw-footed bathtubs and the old world
dining room and hall.”1100HRS – “One of the rst things we dowhenever we arrive in Malacca is to headout to Donald & Lily’s,” says an animatedOoi. “The Nyonya laksa is to-die-for, withthe most amazing broth. It’s right on topof our go-to list as they usually sell out
by noon, so it’s best to get there early.
It’s seriously the best Nyonya laksa in
Malacca! After dining here a few times,
Yuri found out that the owners of Donald &Lily are actually related to him, which wassuch a surprisingly lovely coincidence!”
1200HRS – If you’ve filled your tummy
nicely, now’s a good time to beat thelunch-hour queues and crowds, andhead instead to Jonker Street to shop
for antiques, or Heeren Street for uniquegifts. If you prefer a touch of culture,
venture towards Temple Street, whichis also referred to as Harmony Street, or

1030HRS – Checking in at The Majestic
Malacca is an easy, personal experience,
underscored by the hotel’s signature
welcome, inspired by the Peranakan
tuang teh ceremony, of a pot of blended
lychee black tea, served in a traditional
Straits Chinese basket. Tea-drinking is an

Clockwise, from top: Strolling along
the Malacca River rewards you
with tranquil vistas; shopping for
antiques is a must when in Malacca;
Xandria and Yuri visit the beautiful
Cheng Hoon Teng temple; feastingon Peranakan favourites at Donald& Lily's; Nyonya laksa; the couple's
favourite foodie pitstop; being served
lychee tea - part of The Majestic
Malacca's traditional welcome ritual.

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life feature //Jalan Tukang Emas, where three of theoldest places of worship in Malacca may
be found: the ornate Cheng Hoon Teng
temple (also the oldest Chinese temple
in Malaysia), the equally-decorative Sri
Poyatha Moorthi temple and the Kampung
Kling mosque, which is a curious blendof Sumatran architecture, whose minaret
is more pagoda-esque, with sloped
eaves as opposed to a domed roof. It’s
the perfect place to admire harmonious
religious co-existence – a rarity in today’s
world – hence the name ‘Harmony Street’.
1600HRS – Shopping and soaking up
culture can be tiring (and thirsty) work.
Follow Yuri and Xandria’s lead by nipping
into The Daily Fix Café for its signature
Pandan Gula Melaka Pancake. “This little
café is such a gem. It looks deceptively
small but is actually really spacious as it
extends right out onto the back,” says
Xandria. “It’s so quaint and quirky, and thebest thing is that you actually have to entera souvenir shop to get to the café as The
Daily Fix is nestled right at the back. I lovethat it’s so hidden! Everything on the menu
looks yummy. I have yet to try them all as I
keep on ordering the same thing, which is
the Pandan Gula Melaka Pancake. I thinkit’s a dish everyone needs to taste. I have
yet to see anything similar elsewhere in
Malaysia and I think it’s absolutely divine.
They also serve durian pancakes which I
have yet to try as I’m too obsessed withthe pandan version.”
1900HRS – Few pleasures beat that ofsimply sauntering down from your room
to The Majestic Malacca’s elegant dining
room, The Mansion, for dinner; preferably,

Clockwise, from top left: The
Daily Fix is where Xandria and Yuri
indulge in their favourite Pandan
Gula Melaka pancakes; this local
twist on an international favourite isa must-try; East or West, breakfast
is always served up in style at The
Majestic Malacca.

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after an aperitif or two at the beautiful bar
by the reception. However, if you’ve had
too much spice and are craving for someclean, cool flavours, another of Xandria
and Yuri’s favourite restaurants is Wa Zen.
“The Japanese restaurant’s ambience
is incredibly authentic and the food’s
absolutely stellar in relation to the price.
It’s always packed out as the food’s sogood. Wa Zen closes Sundays, which is
why I always try to make it to Malacca on
a Saturday so I can have dinner here, andconcentrate on my laksa and pancake x
the next day!”

Sunday0800HRS – Start your day bright and earlywith a hearty breakfast at The Mansion at
The Majestic Malacca. Petit dejeuner here
is served cascade-style, which means
you will be served tea, coffee and juices
at your table, followed by a bakery basket,
fruit, yoghurt and cereals, if you wish. The
highlight is, of course, the hot breakfast,
where you can go local or Western, taking
your pick of a menu that ranges fromeggs all styles and waffles served withberry compote and thick double cream,to Malaysian favourites, like murtabak (afluffy local dough cake filled with meatand onions, and eaten with lentil curry),
noodles, Chinese porridge or, the all-timefavourite, nasi lemak – rice cooked withcoconut milk and served with chicken
curry, crispy anchovies and peanuts.
1000HRS – Head out again to Jonker
Street and Heeren Street for more
shopping or take time to visit some of
Malacca’s key sights, including the iconic,
red-hued Christ Church – the oldest
functioning Protestant church in the area.
Across the river from The Majestic Malacca
is also the traditional village of Kampung
Morten, well-worth a look to get a glimpseof life the old-fashioned way in Malacca.
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life feature //1200HRS – With its abundance of cutecafés and snacking options, stopping
for a break is always a good idea whileroaming Malacca’s historical heart. “Thedurian puffs and durian soft serve ice
cream at Taste Better in Jonker Street isone of my favourite durian-y indulgences
ever. You can nd other outlets elsewhere
in Malaysia, though, if you can’t make yourway here,” says Xandria.
1500HRS – If the afternoon heat getsto you, one of the best places to retreat
to would be Spa Village Malacca, anaward-winning haven of rest, relaxation
and authentic wellness therapies inspired

The Spa Village Malacca’s
wellness therapies are basedon the healing heritage of the
Peranakan, a unique blend of
Chinese and Malay inuences.

by traditional Peranakan remedies. Here,
Xandria opted for a combination LomiLomi and Shiatsu massage, while Yuri
went traditional, with an invigorating
Malay massage. All treatments here arepreceded by a delightfully soothing haircare ritual that includes washing, combing
and a scalp massage, which is inspired by
the elaborate grooming ritual of a Nyonya
bride-to-be. Certainly an experience not tobe missed while you are here!
1900HRS - The Majestic Malacca, with
its heritage ambience, warm, welcoming
staff and fabulous attention to detail, isthe obvious choice should you be feelingcelebratory. The weekend turned out tobe a special one for Xandria and Yuri as
the timing of the trip enabled them to be in
Malacca in time to celebrate Yuri’s mother’sbirthday. “The dinner at The Mansion was
beautiful and delicious, and a big thanks
to the chef for creating a special Westernmenu for us,” says Xandria. Feasting on
The Majestic’s Classic Caesar Salad,followed by a hearty mushroom soup, codwith spicy sauce, black pepper rib eye

steak and chocolate mousse, no birthday
celebration would’ve been quite complete
without the blowing out of candles and abirthday sing-song either. “Each of the staff
was fantastic and made it so very special
for my mother-in-law, who had an amazing
time,” she enthuses.

MONDAY

1000HRS – Alas, all weekends must cometo an end and, as Xandria recaps before
she departs for Kuala Lumpur: “It was thebest weekend ever, one where Yuri andI truly felt relaxed and so comfortable.
I’ve always loved The Majestic Malacca
for its colonial architecture and Nyonya
accents, but it’s really the entire team herethat makes each experience and visit soremarkable, from the gentlemanly andconsiderate General Manager, Ben Quah,to Rahayu, who showed us around andwas spectacular. I cannot be more proud
to recommend the hotel!”
For more details on The Majestic
Malacca and Spa Village Malacca, go to
www.majesticmalacca.com.
The Majestic Malacca also
proved to be the perfectvenue at which to celebrate
Yuri's mother's birthday,
which made the couple's trip
all the more special.

Clockwise, from top:
Shopping for traditional
treats, like pineapple tarts,
is an easy pleasure when in
Malacca; Jonker Walk is the
focal point for most visitors;
step back in time when
walking Malacca's interesting
streets; Xandria tries on abeautiful Nyonya kebaya.

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life feature //life feature //Back to
BasicsSometimes, you just need a breakfrom the grind of modern life.
Here, at Gaya Island Resort andTanjong Jara Resort, you canreconnect with a simpler and morerelaxed world with their uniquesignature experiences. Each gives
you an insight into the magic andspirit of the locale.
Text Diana Khoo & Maya Michael Photography Law Soo PhyeExperience a cultural
journey with an East
Malaysian twist at Gaya
Island Resort, Sabah.

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life feature //Clockwise, from far left: The resort
blends harmoniously with its
surroundings; the 'Magunatip' danceis a spirited performance that involves
hopping in between bamboo poles; aguest visiting one of the colourful stalls
set up during Singgah Singgarung;learn how to create little critters using
nothing but palm fronds and a little
imagination; make your own souvenir
to commemorate your Singgah
Singgarung experience.

The Kadazan
Tribal Dinnerbeach barbecue
features fresh shand produce.

LEARN THROUGH PLAY

Here’s a quick guide to other culturalactivities that can be found at Gaya
Island Resort.

that opulence and splendour, however, is a golden opportunity forvisitors to embark on a cultural journey while experiencing, rsthand, the local way of life of Sabah’s indigenous people.

TRIBAL ODYSSEYS

For a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of theindigenous people of Sabah, look no further than Gaya
Island Resort.

THE GAMES WE PLAY
On Wednesday and Saturday evenings, the beachfront near the
resort’s popular Feast Village comes alive with the signature experience,
Singgah Singgarung (available from 1800hrs). It is during this festive
event when both guests and members of the resort’s staff will bondover food, art and dancing. Live weaving demonstrations conductedon mats allow guests to channel their inner artist by transforming
ordinary palm fronds into decorative animal gures.

If it's fun in the sun that you're hankering for, then Gaya Island
Resort is the perfect retreat to satisfy those wanderlust cravings.
Renowned for its white sand beaches, spectacular underwater
havens and untouched tropical rainforest, this luxurious holiday
destination has been making plenty of waves since its official
launch back in 2013.

Those with especially nimble feet can showcase their speed and agility
by partaking in the traditional dance, Magunatip, which is typically
performed during grand festive celebrations such as the harvest
festival, Kaamatan. The aim of this exciting performance is to hop
between two clapping bamboo poles while moving to the rhythm of thebeat. And, in case you feel like having an impromptu picnic session on
the beach, just stop at any of the nearby stalls to sample local snacks
and beverages provided by the resort.

Located on a private island colonised by an ancient rainforest –accessible via a quick speedboat ride from Jesselton Point in Kota
Kinabalu – this exclusive luxury resort has been designed to blend
seamlessly with its captivating natural surroundings. Beyond all

This insight into the Borneo way of life ends with a fantastic Kadazan
Tribal Dinner, a beach barbecue where melodious Kadazan music sets
the mood while you feast on skewered fresh sh grilled campre-styleand produce served with the famous local rice wine, lihing.

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Borneo Craftworks: Catered tohandicraft enthusiasts, this relaxing
activity involves looping colourful
beads through string to create
delicately intricate accessories.
Available on Tuesdays, Thursdays
and Saturdays at 1530hrs.
Yahai Pupuan: Available for guestsof all ages, this wholesome outdoor
workout aims to cultivate wellness,balance, relaxation and awarenessby incorporating various breathing
techniques with physical postures.
Available on Mondays, Wednesdays
and Sundays at 1530hrs.
Sabah Scent Adventures: Heldwithin the serene halls of theMangrove Theatre at the Spa Village
Gaya Island, participants at thisunique workshop will not only beenlightened on the various benets
of essential oils, but will also get achance to create their own bespoke
scent. Available on Wednesdays
and Fridays at 1230hrs.
All activities and dining experiences listed here are subject
to availability and weather conditions; and must be reserved
through the resort’s PURE Counter at least a day inadvance (before 1700hrs). For further details, please visit
www.gayaislandresort.com

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life feature //VILLAGE PEOPLE

It’s summertime all-year long on the Malaysian East
Coast, so let the living be easy. Enjoy the sweet
simplicity of kampong life at Tanjong Jara Resort,where you can escape from the frenetic fervour of big
city life and, instead, indulge in a few blissful days ofvillage life de luxe.
City living can get to you. If your daily schedule revolves aroundthe hugger-mugger of crowds, commutes and the ticking clock,it might be time to break away for a few days of the simple life.
One of the best places to retreat to is the Tanjong Jara Resort,
located along the golden coastline of Malaysia’s north-easternstate of Terengganu. The Malay culture and way of life has always
formed an integral part of the Tanjong Jara experience, but it
truly comes to life every Saturday as the resort hosts its weekly
Kampong Sucimurni Lifestyle activity.

Clockwise, from right: Guests
will enjoy relaxing in theelegant surroundings evoking
ancient Malay palaces at
Tanjong Jara Resort; a guest
tries their hand in the art ofbatik-painting; move to the
local beat at Tanjong Jara
Resort; eating is always an
art form here.

KAMPONG SUCIMURNI LIFE 101
A quick guide to what’s what.

Congkak: A traditional girl’s game that is played all over the
Nusantara region, using a wooden congkak board with about
14 to 18 holes, depending on the board. Seashells, bright redsaga seeds, tamarind seeds or even marbles may be used toplay. A game of mental calculation, the objective of congkak
is to capture the seeds or shells of your opponent, whereby
the person with the highest number collected is deemed thewinner. If you have a handful of Malaysian coins, look for theolder 10 cent ones as a picture of a congkak board is depicted
on its reverse side.

At the beachfront garden, a flurry of activity takes place every
Saturday evening as makeshift stalls are set up to offer resort
guests a taste of village life. Kitchen staff will set up woks where
keropok lekor, a type of sh sausage and the state’s most popularsnack, keropok ikan (sh crisps) and cucur sayur (vegetable fritters)
are fried á la minute, and cups of sweet, strong local coffee areserved. For those who wish to cool down in the tropical heat, there
are also cups of iced roselle juice. Nearby, a makcik mans a stall
offering piping-hot akok, a traditional Terengganu kuih famousalong Malaysia’s east coast, made with a sinful blend of our, eggs
and rich coconut cream. Guests are invited to sample the selectionof sweet and savoury tea-time snacks, and enjoy an impromptu
picnic on ready laid-out woven pandanus mats.
Kampong Life was launched in 2004 when the resort decided
to introduce an experience that would be different, uniqueand yet live up to its ‘Unmistakably Malay’ philosophy. It is anactivity that is enjoyed by both foreign and local guests as many
Malaysians, especially those living in big cities, hardly ever geta chance to experience the simple pleasures of Kampong Life.
Such is the activity’s popularity, the resort runs an extra session
on Wednesdays during peak season and festive holidays like
Chinese New Year and Christmas. And, during the Muslim
celebration of Hari Raya, Kampong Life is held according to the
local ‘open house’ concept, where guests experience what it
would be like to celebrate in a traditional Malay home, with musthave festive dishes like lemang and beef rendang while the night
before will be marked with reworks and sparklers.

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Gamelan: A traditional musical ensemble featuring a variety of
instruments, usually at least one metallophone or xylophone,gongs and drums.
Takraw: Also referred to as sepak takraw or sepak raga, this isa sport that is immensely popular on the Malay Peninsula aswell as the south of Thailand. Using a small rattan ball, the rules
are simple: only the feet, knee, chest and head of the player
are allowed to touch the ball. A type of ‘kick volleyball’, it istraditionally played by men.

Nimble feet
are needed
for traditional
bamboo dances.

One of the undisputed stars of Kampong Life, however, is a pigtailed macaque who visits the resort with his trainer to demonstratethe ne art of coconut-plucking. Effortlessly scampering up eachtree, he is trained to select only the ripest, juiciest coconuts and, witha quick twist and throw, a bright green fruit will soon land with a thudon the grass. These freshly picked coconuts will then be served tothe picnicking guests as the ultimate tropical thirst-quencher. There
are also stalls where you can try the art of batik-painting as well as
demonstrations on the games of congkak and takraw, both popular
pastimes in the East Coast. The rhythmic beats of the gamelan canalso be heard in the air and, for a magical hour, guests can lose
themselves in the sweet simplicity of kampong-living, served up
Tanjong Jara-style.
Kampong Life takes place every Saturday from 1700-1800hrs
at Tanjong Jara Resort’s gardens. For more details, visit
www.tanjongjararesort.com

Akok: A traditional kuih (local cake or pudding) that is popularon the East Coast of Malaysia, particularly in the states of
Kelantan and Terengganu. Made using a mixture of hen’s eggs,
santan (coconut milk) and our, there may be several shapes
and variations of akok but it is always soft, spongy, egg-y andsweet. Pandanus leaves may also be used to avour it, causing
some akok to have a green-ish colour.
Lekor: Also known as keropok lekor, this is one of the East
Coast’s most famous nibbles. It is especially famous andpopular in Terengganu. Made from sh, sago or tapioca ourand lightly seasoned with salt, these can best be referred to as
Malaysian sh sausages, and may be eaten boiled or fried. Best
enjoyed with a dribble of chilli sauce.
Lemang: Rich and lling, lemang is a traditional Malay rice dishmade with glutinous rice and coconut milk. Stuffed in hollowedout sticks of bamboo lined with banana leaves, in order toprevent the rice sticking to the bamboo, it is cooked over anopen fire. Found all over Malaysia, this dish is a must-haveduring festivals and religious feast days, particularly Hari Raya,
where it is eaten as an accompaniment to meat-based curries,
particularly fragrant beef rendang.

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life feature //life feature //TOP TENGGOLDIVE SPOTS

Tenggol The TerriﬁcMarch marks the start of the diving season on the East Coast ofPeninsular Malaysia and there is no better place than this jewel of anisland off Terengganu.

The Edge
This site is a good 30m deep and an
excellent introduction to diving aroundthe Tenggol waters. Witness multi-pastel
coloured corals and curious marine
inhabitants, and watch humphead wrassegoing about their feeding quite oblivious
to divers. Pause and listen to themchowing down on hard corals with their
sharp beaks.
Tokong Timor
This has to be a favourite dive site formany aficionados, even though it might

be awash with currents at times. Timor
is a rock outcrop, topped with a small
lighthouse and populated by seagulls. Be
further mesmerised by more corals in theirolive greens, mauves and blues, while
giant boulders teem with marine life.
Amazing Grace
This site lives up to its name. Immerse
yourself in a coral garden, schools of shand a forest of colourful anemone. Graceis home to a variety of nudibranchs –miniature sea slugs that live on the corals.
They come in the most vivid and gorgeous
colours – greens with orange, dark blues
with pinks, and rich purples. Nudis moveslowly, like snails, so take your time toappreciate these little wonders of theocean. You might just catch a pair mating.
Moon Racker
If you fancy some drift diving, Moon Racker
is just the place. You might also get lucky
and spot black tip sharks here, alongside
the fearsome looking Titan Triggerfishes.
You just have to make sure to stay clear ofthem come mating or nesting season, as
they are extremely protective.
Rajawali Reef
Situated at the seaward side of Tenggol,
Rajawali is best done at a relaxed pace,soaking in the sight of the vibrant reef
community and looking out for the smaller
marine creatures.

Text Loo Kit Choong

Tanjong Gemok
Calm waters beckon you at Gemok andyou will see more nudis, rays, eels, andpipesh. Be fascinated by the graceful but
predatory lionsh out for its next meal. Try
spotting shrimp and gobies in the sandpatches, as they share the same burrow.
These two animals form a very interesting
symbiotic relationship. The shrimp is blindand relies on the seeing goby to protect
it. In return, the goby gets to stay in theburrow that the shrimp has dug.
For more information or to book, visit
tanjongjararesort.com.

Tenggol is the most southerly island of the
Terengganu Marine Park. It is boundedby equally well-known neighbours likeNyireh Island and the rocky outcrop,
Tokong Timor (East Temple). Your stay at
the award-winning Tanjong Jara Resortmeans that you will be on Tenggol’s
doorstep, with some of the best diving
this side of Malaysia awaiting you. The
resort's PADI-certified Dive Centre alsooffers a range of marine activities and
PADI dive courses.
Tenggol is spectacularly adorned by
rocky cliffs and blessed with some 20
excellent dive sites offering divers pristine
hard and soft corals, rays, nudibranchs,
humphead parrotsh and jacks. Declareda protected marine park in 1994, Tenggol
was up until then a popular spear

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fish hunting ground for snappers andgroupers. Not as crowded or as touristy
as other popular islands further up thecoast, Tenggol denitely offers the bestof the East Coast, with village charm,gorgeous beaches, unspoilt reefs andmarine creatures that aren’t shy of divers.
When the diving is done, let Tanjong Jara
Resort indulge you with its superb cuisineand luxurious accommodation. Bliss at
its purest!
After a hearty breakfast at the resort,take a short van journey to the Dungun
river mouth jetty, where you board
a speedboat for a 45-minute ride toTenggol. Be prepared to be accompanied
by occasional playful dolphins on the way
to the island! Here are some not-to-bemissed dive sites coveted by divers:
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life feature //Under
The Sea
We all need Vitamin-Sea! Here’s
a short and sweet guide to somebasic snorkelling dos and don’ts.
Text Simon Pridmore

Author and columnist Dave Barry once wrote: “There’s nothing
wrong with enjoying looking at the surface of the ocean itself,
except that when you finally see what goes on underwater,
you realise that you’ve been missing the whole point of theocean. Staying on the surface all the time is like going to thecircus and staring at the outside of the tent.” Snorkelling, inother words, gives you a VIP ticket into the circus! There aremany places where you can discover this amazing underwater
world, including YTL Hotels’ Tanjong Jara Resort and Pangkor
Laut Resort in Peninsular Malaysia, Gaya Island Resort in Kota
Kinabalu, Sabah, and the Spa Village Resort, Tembok in Bali.

What To Wear

Cover up when you snorkel in tropical regions as the sun striking
your body via a thin layer of salt water can burn even tanned
skin. Wear at least a t-shirt and shorts, but be aware that this will
still leave your arms and calves exposed. If you use sunscreen,46

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make sure it does not contain chemicals that can harm thereef when it washes off your body. Check before buying – if asunscreen is reef-friendly, it will say so on the bottle.
you are not completely familiar with. Although your snorkelling
partners may be no more experienced than you are, multiple
sets of senses might see trouble coming much earlier. It is alsoreassuring to have a companion around in case something goes
wrong. Having someone to help you get back to shore, if you
have cramps or are stung by a jellyfish, turns a potentially serious
emergency into just a minor inconvenience.

It is far better to wear a full-length Lycra dive skin. These arecheap to buy from water sports outlets. They should fit you welland not be loose. Wear a swimsuit underneath as the lycra
leaves nothing to the imagination. On your feet, wear reef shoesor dive boots to protect you from sharp rocks and spiny fish.
This means the fins you need will be open-heeled style.

Time And PlaceFirst and foremost, choose the right time and place to snorkel.
Pick a site where the reef or rocks are close to the surface andwhere there is no boat or Jet Ski traffic. Many beaches havesnorkelling areas cordoned off but, if there isn’t and you hearor see a boat coming towards you, swim out of the way andkeep your eyes on it until it has passed. Choose a time of day
when the water is calm and clear, and there is only minimal wave
action. If the ocean is rough, cancel your snorkelling plans.

too. Make sure your fingers are clean and dry first – a mistakemany people make is to apply sunscreen before they clean theirmask, which just leaves an oily residue on the lens. This almost
guarantees that the mask will fog up once you put it on. Wipe theliquid round the inside of the mask glass with your finger before
rinsing it out in fresh or salt water. The product you applied to theglass now acts as a surfactant to stop fogging. Avoid touching it
as you risk removing it.

Preparation

Bring A Friend

Before you start, clean your mask so that it doesn’t fog up while
you are in the water. While the glass is still dry, spit in it or use
a commercial defogging liquid. Baby shampoo works really well

Don’t snorkel alone. While it is hardly a high-risk activity, it isalways a good idea to snorkel with someone else or as part ofa loose group. After all, the ocean is an alien environment thatHow To Swim

When you snorkel, even on the surface, don’t use your hands
or arms. Instead, use your fins for propulsion and to change
direction. Keep your arms by your side or folded across yourchest. If you are just lying on the surface, watching the marine
life below, keep your legs and fins still and stretched behind you.
If you want to move, keep your legs as they were but flutter thema little on the surface like paddles.

How To Duck Dive

Duck diving gives you a closer look at the marine life on the reef
and allows you to experience, albeit briefly, the freedom of being
able to move through the water in three dimensions, up, down
and laterally. It is the closest you can get to swimming like a fish.
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life feature //Lie on the surface; take a breath and hold it, then duck your head
underwater, bending at the waist to make yourself as vertical as
possible. Throw your legs straight up into the air, so that theirweight carries your upper body down under the water. Make one
breaststroke pull with your arms, then kick with your fins down
towards the seabed. If you feel pressure on your ears as you
descend, hold your nostrils together through the flexible nosepiecein your mask and sniff against your blocked nose. This shouldmake your ears go ‘pop’. If they don’t, they will hurt, at which point,
stop descending and go back to the surface.
If your ears clear up, keep finning down. Don’t pull with yourarms; just kick with your fins. When you are near the bottom,
straighten out to a horizontal profile and look around. Whenyou feel the urge to breathe, head for the surface, looking up
as you do so, to make sure you don’t bump into a boat or
another snorkeler. While you are underwater, keep your snorkel
clenched between your teeth and hold your breath. When you
surface, nod your head forward so you are looking downwards.
The end of your snorkel will now be in the air. Exhale forcefully
into the snorkel to clear it of water. Then take a fresh breath,inhaling cautiously just in case there is residual water in thesnorkel and keep swimming. A couple of caveats – First, do
not hyper ventilate before duck diving to try to give yourself
more time underwater. This is dangerous. Second, the rule forduck diving with your snorkelling partner is ‘one up, one down’.
That is why one of you always remains on the surface while theother dives.

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Entry And Exit

01 Enter the water wearing reef shoes or dive boots, with yourmask and snorkel around your neck and the heel straps of your finslooped over one forearm. you carry your equipment like this so you
can use your free arm to balance yourself as you walk into the sea.
it also makes sure you won’t lose anything if a wave catches youor if you trip on a rock and fall over. Once you are at about waist
depth, bend your knees so that most of your body is immersed andsupported by the water. Then, put your fins on, one at a time. Useyour snorkelling partner for support and offer them the same.
02 Stand up and put your mask and snorkel in place. your mask
should feel comfortable, so don’t pull the strap too tight. if you
find that water comes in while you are wearing it, don’t tighten it
even further. Instead, loosen it a little so that the flexible silicone
skirt can mould itself to the contours of your face. Leave yourmask in place all the time when you are in the water. not only
does your mask help you see the marine life below, it stops
water from going up your nose.
03 Look down as you swim rather than ahead. if you raise your head
to look forward, your snorkel can tilt back below the surface and give
you a mouthful of seawater instead of fresh air when you breathethrough it. If your snorkel does fill up with water, blow it out forcefully.
If you have no air in your lungs, first turn your face away from any
wave action. then, take the snorkel out of your mouth, take a deep
breath in, put the snorkel back in and exhale strongly to clear it.
04 to leave the water, approach the beach, then turn and face out
to sea before standing up. this way, you can watch for any waves
heading towards you. Slip your mask and snorkel down aroundyour neck. Watch the waves, wait for a calm patch of water, thenbend your knees to remove your fins, as before, holding on to yoursnorkelling partner as you do so. Loop the straps over your forearm
again and head for the beach.

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life feature //Summer Days,
Summer Taste

Niseko enthusiasts, rejoice! Summer’s here
and, in celebration of the rst time The Green
Leaf Niseko Village stays open during the green
season, come enjoy a wide range of activities
and menus that celebrate the best of unbeatable
Hokkaido produce.

Summertime is when the living is easy…
and bountiful. As one of Japan’s most
preferred and renowned gourmet
destinations, there’s no better time than
the green season to enjoy the best
Hokkaido has to offer. The Green Leaf
Niseko Village, just a short distanceaway from the Hilton Niseko Village anda stone’s throw from the Kasara Niseko
Village Townhouses, makes the most of
this vibrant season by staying open, for therst time ever, throughout summer, giving
guests the opportunity to enjoy a different
facet of the region.
Bundle up your Moncler jackets and chuckthe skis and snowboards into storage, as

you slip on cool cottons and linens andlet your pedicured toenails shine throughin pretty sandals. Although the allure ofsummer equates to long treks throughlusciously green meadows, horseback
riding and games of golf on either the
Niseko Village Golf Course or the Niseko
Golf Course, another highlight of summer
is tucking into all the wonderful bounty,
from both land and sea. Niseko Village’s
retail and restaurant hub will be working
around-the-clock to constantly come up
with produce-driven menus and foodpromotions that will change according
to what’s fresh and available. Feast on
succulently sweet strawberries as you
stroll the grounds or, even better, checkwith the restaurants what special icecream avours are on offer. The Japanese
are immensely clever at infusing Western
dishes with local avour, as can be seenfrom the variety of flavours proffered byyour local aisukurimu-ya. Who knows?

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There could be yuzu (a type of Japanese
citrus), melon, green tea and, if you’re
lucky, ramune (a local zzy cider) avours
to try!
Summer also signals the best time toenjoy Hokkaido’s sweet-as-sugar pearl-likewhite corn. Grab a cob or two, slathered,of course, with Hokkaido’s incredibly
addictive whipped butter, in-between
enjoying all the PURE activities offered at
Niseko Village, including bouncy castles
for the kids, whizzing through the air on theying fox and rope climbing in the treetops.
Melon is also one of the highlights of theseason and, once you experience all thedelights of a slice of local Makkari ham
draped beautifully across a slice of yubari
melon, you might never consider Iberico
again! Seafood feasts are also not to be
missed this season, so be sure to headto The Crab Shack for seafood all-styles,
including decadent sea urchin and the big

but beautiful king and snow crabs preparedhowever you like it. A few machiya-likeshops away is also the Two Sticks tapasbar, who will prepare the summer’s bounty
with an Asian twist, as well as the popular
Village Patisserie, where delicious cakes
and pastries featuring sun-ripened summer
fruit would assume the starring role in its
array of tarts and other sweet treats.
And if you simply can’t get enough of thesummer cornucopia, check with yourconcierge when the farmer’s markets will
be set up within the village. We can’t thinkof a better way to spend a sunny day, ice
cream in hand, of course, than browsing
the array of artisanal produce on display.
Whatever your fancy, Niseko is certain tothrill your palate this green season.
To find out more about what’s on offer thissummer at The Green Leaf Niseko Village,
please visit www.thegreenleafhotel.com.

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life profile //The
Bond OfMusicThe Solianos continue a time
honoured musical legacy as a familywith the sounds of yesterday at
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
Text Chin Mui Yoon Photography Law Soo Phye

Come evenings, the sultry voice of Isabella Soliano rises over the
gold-leafed dome of the Colonial Café in The Majestic Hotel Kuala
Lumpur. Accompanied by family members, Irene, Valentino, Rizal
and Coni, the Solianos are making beautiful music once again in
the footsteps of their famous father, Alfonso. Regarded as oneof the fathers of modern Malay music, Alfonso (1925-1990) was
also a pioneer of Malaysian jazz, helping shape what was then aedgling Radio Malaya Orchestra (RTM).
One of his more abiding legacies would be the deep love for music
he has passed down to his 10 children. This incredibly gifted familyof musicians commands attention every time they take to the stage,
particularly for their prowess in vocal harmony. The Solianos haveeven earned an entry into the Malaysian Book of Records as ‘The
Longest Performing Group as a Family’. In 2010, they released
their rst album, named Pusaka, a tribute to Alfonso that included
his original compositions as well as classic Malay numbers.
The band currently performs nightly at The Majestic Hotel Kuala
Lumpur, entertaining guests with a repertoire of evergreen hits.

The Solianos are keeping
faith with the musicallegacy they inherited fromtheir father, Alfonso.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE“Music runs through our blood,” says pianist-singer Isabella, 58,
when we meet recently for a chat before their performance. “Ourhome was always lled with music. My father’s band members,
who were cousins, would practise at all hours. As kids, my siblings
and I would sneak in during their break time to play with the
instruments. Our passion just grew from there. My father loved
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life profile //The family that plays together: (from left) Rizalon the drums; Valentino on the bass; Isabellaon the piano; vocalist Irene; Conrado on thetrumpet; and Don Alfonso on the bass.

music completely and was wholly dedicated to it. We’d listen to
all his favourite jazz pieces and we knew them from young. My
father was our fiercest critic and motivator. As teenagers, we each
evolved and formed our own tastes in music. But, as a band, we
played together as directed by our band leader. Creating musicas a group brings out our heart because that’s where it touches
the soul of those who are listening. When you play from within, it
is different.”
Saidah Rastam, in her book Rosalie And Other Love Songs,
explains that when the British wanted to set up a state band for
Selangor in 1894, they couldn’t find enough musicians trained inWestern music in Malaya. As a solution, they hired 64 musiciansfrom the Philippines and formed the Selangor State Band. After
their contracts expired, almost all of them, including Alfonso’s
father, remained in Malaya and Singapore, where they found workin dance and cabaret bands, bangsawan ensembles and anyother opportunities that were open to them.
In 1952, the then-27-year-old Alfonso formed a trio, Orkes Tiga
Serangkai, with bassist Mahadzir Yassin and drummer Julio Julius
Villenguez, and broadcasted music from Radio Malaya. Apartfrom performing, Alfonso was also highly regarded for his rolein teaching many musicians and singers in those days. With his
deep passion and knowledge of traditional Malay music and jazz,

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Alfonso was a full-time conductor and arranger for Radio Malaya
till 1965, when he moved to Bangkok for nearly a decade. “We
used to perform at the American Officers’ Club for servicemenon their R&R and the Chao Phraya Hotel, where my dad led a
10-piece band that backed many famous international singers
passing through Bangkok,” recalls Alfonso’s second eldest child,
Valentino, who continues to play the bass today.
“I was a teenager when I joined the band in Bangkok,” recalls
drummer Rizal, 62, the fourth sibling. ”I was only eight when I
knew this was what I’d be doing for the rest of my life. Together
with my cousins, we formed our band and were presenting for theearliest shows of RTM from their base in Jalan Ampang in thosedays. We performed at pantomimes and opera shows, including
with my father, in Bangkok. I never had nerves. I’d say a prayerand hoped it sufficed. We had to be very flexible and not get stuckin one genre.”
Practice makes perfect and this has never been truer for the
Solianos. “Everyone had a part; my father would know instantly if
we hadn’t practised because, if we’d done that, the song would
be perfectly tuned,” says Rizal. “I never counted the amount oftime we practised, but I’d say it was around five hours each day.
Music is fun. We always enjoyed the energy and the harmony thatwas just remarkable considering how very different we are.”Irene, 53, who is also a singer and the second youngest in thefamily, laughs as she recalls how strict her father had been. “Buthe was very funny too! He loved having all his family together under
one roof. Music is the bond that holds us together through thegenerations. Fortunately, there were only wooden rulers in thosedays and not the stainless steel ones, which he’d been tapping
to see we were following the beat correctly and, if not, we’d get
a rap on our fingers. The practices ensured that we were never
ever too tired to perform. We are always relaxed even at the moststressful times. We never joined competitions because our dad
was very humble and he believed that music is what we give to an
audience, not for competing. As long as we perform with our heartand soul, it brings happiness and fulfilment, he’d say.”centred around music. I started with drums but my dad decided we
had too many drummers. So, he bought me a trumpet. I struggled
initially, especially with the breathing, which I only mastered muchlater. But it’s an instrument with a power all its own. In those days,
we had no access to materials, so we depended a lot on myfather to teach us whatever he knew, or every time a musician was
passing through, we’d beg them to help us. To see any musician
perform then, you’d have to sneak in to catch a live performance,
unlike today where you can see anything on YouTube!”
Coni adds thoughtfully that they had lived, worked, played andpractised together. “We always travelled as a band. Nobody would
dream of abandoning the band to join another when times weretough. You rough it out together.”This musical family is so renowned that there at least six separate
bands flying the Soliano flag throughout the country and Singapore.
The Solianos have played in various hotels through the decades aswell as discotheques, lounges and halls. Both Isabella and Irene
giggle as they recall a performance during one of striptease queen
Rose Chan’s infamous cabaret shows. “When the red panties
went off and the snake came on, our eyes were popping out,”says Irene. “We hadn’t realised what sort of show it was!”“I am grateful for opportunities to continue being working
musicians,” adds Isabella. “We’re often asked how we stay together
as a band through the years. We know each other’s strengths andweaknesses very well, and we don’t pressure one another. My
father had always put the family first. He’d already planned thislegacy and masterplan for us. I believe we are gifted by God andthe best we can give in return is to use this gift well for Him.”

Another sibling Conrado, 56, says: “I grew up in a very noisy
household, where there was always music and conversations

The Solianos perform nightly at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
For more details, visit www.majestickl.com.
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life feature //life feature //Have You
Herd?
It’s easy to get awed by the colossal frames of elephants.
There’s so much more to them, however, than meets the eye as
Kirat Kaur learns after getting up close and personal with
Terengganu’s gentle giants.
Photography Yong Keen Keong54

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life feature //Nature is your best friend at Tanjong Jara
Resort. You wake up hearing the song of
the sea and spend the day trying to spot
the shy critters around the resort – from theadorable squirrels and comical monkeys
to the hornbills. Blessed is the land of
Terengganu, or 'Ganu' as it is called by
locals, with nature’s bounty providing a
myriad of activities for you to experienceits breathtaking beauty. Amongst themis the highly popular Kenyir ElephantConservation Village by the Telemong
River, a haven for elephants to roam andlive peacefully till the end of their days.
Elephants have long been exalted inancient eastern cultures and an icon in
Asia, playing pivotal roles in mythology, war
and in building cities and empires. Thoughwidely recognised and beloved by many,elephant numbers were greatly reducedin the last hundred years or so due to thedecimating ivory trade and they continue tobe under threat from poachers and humanencroachment on their habitats. This iswhere elephant sanctuaries like the Kenyir
Elephant Conservation Village play a pivotal
role: helping stabilise and conserve themammal while educating the public on theirgentle nature.
The 90-minute drive to Kuala Berang,
where the Kenyir Elephant Conservation
Village is located, is a contemplative one.
I was mesmerised by the smooth curvesof the Pantai Timur mountain range
running through the eastern Malaysianstate, and lucky enough to catch sight ofa few rainbows adding bursts of colours
to the sloping green hills – an insightful
experience into a theory that traces theorigins of Terengganu’s name as terangganu, Malay for ‘bright rainbow’.
Despite the considerable number of
attractions available at Tasik Kenyir, theKenyir Elephant Conservation Village

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE(KECV) stands out for the intimacy you
experience with these giants. The elephantconservation village is exactly what it claims
to be – a place that conserves Malaysianelephants, their way of life and the diverse
flora and fauna of Terengganu. Despite
being in operation for only four years, 13
elephants call the village home, free fromhuman-wildlife conflict as most of themwere rescued from poachers’ traps or
captured after trespassing on farms.

Jumbo Delight

Getting to the elephants involves a miniadventure trail, with hanging suspension
bridges providing some heart-thumping
action and glorious views of the virtually
untouched forests and Telemong Riversnaking below. The 600m canopy walks
are interspaced with viewing towers
and resting platforms up to five stories
high, which allowed me to observe theelephants’ antics in their natural habitat.
Largely free from development (save fromsome ancillary facilities that include bathingpools, feeding and training areas, and an
on-site veterinary clinic), the elephantsroam about on roughly 256ha of land,enjoying life as they would in the wild.
While many elephant sanctuaries claim to
put the animal’s best interest at heart, this iswhere one can actually experience genuine
love for the animals. The elephants areplayful and the younger ones, especially,
are a treat to watch. The elephant village
also invites visitors to familiarise themselveswith these glorious creatures by educatingthem about elephant behaviour and theirhabitat with an Elephant Educational
Presentation. The animals here do not
perform circus-tricks, presenting, instead,their natural capabilities under the guidanceof a mahout. Derived from the Hindi word
‘mahaut’, this is an elephant trainer orkeeper, and each creature at this village iscared for by two mahouts.

During the presentation, the mahouts gently
instructed the animals as the crowd (myself
included) whooped and cheered in delight,
captivated by the elephants working
together to move logs, demonstrate theiragility and splashing water all over theplace with their long, waving trunks. Abby,
one of the younger elephants, showed
the dexterity of her trunk by placing a hat
on an excited volunteer and even planted
a whiskery kiss on their cheek. As theelephants displayed their typical conduct
and habits, fascinating facts about these
impressive creatures were narrated to theappreciative audience.
After the show, it was time to feed theelephants. Each of us was equipped witha basket of sugar cane that disappeared
as soon as we got them. Elephantsmean business with their food and I was
surprised by their strength as they wrapped
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life feature //enjoyable is how the flavour of the soup
evolves throughout the meal – fromtasting simply delicious to absolutely
divine thanks to the myriad of meatsand vegetables flavouring the broth. The
camaraderie and closeness felt at theelephant village earlier in the day madethe dinner even more delightful as there
is a sense of fellowship around the table,with playful jokes aplenty.
A steamboat dinner is only as good as its
ingredients and the one at Tanjong Jara
Resort was unquestionably heavenly, withprawns, squid, scallops, mussels anddory fish fresh off the fishermen’s boat.
The fragrant broth – a comforting chicken
soup or boldly tangy tom yum – bubbled
enticingly as the seafood and crisp green
vegetables cooked to perfection. Sittingby the resort's free-form pool, sippingon cocktails and feasting like a king, I
savoured the tranquil atmosphere as one
should in life’s good moments.

their trunks around the food offeredand eagerly put it into their mouths. Of
course, the highlight of the whole trip wasbathing with the elephants. As I climbed
over the rocks into the river, I was thrilledby the sight of the elephants frolicking
about and cooling off in the water. It was
during this time I witnessed the love andrespect between the mahouts and thegentle giants, who were mischievously
spraying water everywhere while theircarers affectionately rubbed them down.
No doubt, I was a little apprehensive
when approaching the elephants. The
colossal size of these animals is enoughto overwhelm even the bravest. As I
came face to face with an elephant, it
slowly blinked at me and lied down on
its side. It lazily waved its trunk around inencouragement and, I have to admit, thelong-lashed creature looked absolutely
adorable in its contentment. It was at
this moment I forgot my fears and gave
it a rather ineffective but spirited bath.
Getting so close to the elephants, alongwith the facts I learned during this trip,

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made for a rather pensive journey back to
Tanjong Jara Resort as I reflected on thecreature’s dire circumstances. While I had
a fair share of fun and games at the village,
it was comforting to know that places like
Kenyir Elephant Conservation Village exist
to rescue them and increase awareness.
The future might just be full of trumpeting
good times.

Creature Comforts

When it comes to fantastic food that
comforts the body and soul, Tanjong Jara
Resort delivers like no other. With the
day spent warming your heart with thedemeanour of the elephants, it’s only fitting
to carry on the comforting experience inthe evening by warming your body – and,by this, I mean a sumptuous steamboat
dinner at Teratai Terrace.
A steamboat dinner is an amazing bonding
experience, with the food cooked together
and shared amongst the diners. Of course,
the experience is elevated by the aroma
of fresh seafood stewing in the simmering
metal pot at the centre of the table. Whatmakes a steamboat dinner particularly

The evening ended on a cosy note as I
soaked in a wonderfully warm milk bathdrawn by the pleasant housekeeping
staff. There’s no arguing that Tanjong
Jara Resort goes all out to make guests
feel comfortable and relaxed, whilerelishing in the remarkable flora andfauna of the East Coast state. It was
no easy task leaving the serene resort,
but there was an unspoken promise
to return for another rendezvous withnature and its glorious creatures.
Activities available at Kenyir ElephantConservation Village include feeding,
educational presentations and bathingwith the elephants. Trips to Kenyir
Elephant Conservation Village areprovided by Tanjong Jara Resort every
Monday, Wednesday and Saturday in theafternoon and evenings. Picnic baskets
furnished by the resort are also available
upon request. For more details, visit
www.tanjongjararesort.com

ELE-FUN FACTS• Elephants have the longest pregnancy of all in the animal kingdom, with a gestation
period of 22 months. That long pregnancy seems justified enough as a newborn calf
weighs around 120kg.
• One might be quick to assume that trumpeting is an elephant’s only means ofcommunication, but these majestic creatures actually prefer the power of touch-greeting
each other by stroking or wrapping trunks. Elephants also produce a range of rumbles
to ‘talk’. Adorably enough, these rumbles can sometimes sound like a cat’s purr.
• The tusk is an elephant’s incisor teeth used for defence, digging and to strip barkfrom trees. Just like people who are either left or right-handed, elephants also havea preference, favouring one tusk over the other. This highly useful appendage has,
however, contributed to their downfall, due to the highly controversial ivory trade thathas greatly reduced their numbers.
• The Asian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) is actually a different species fromthe African one (Loxodonta Africana). The two can be differentiated by the shapeof their heads – Asians have two bulges on their foreheads, unlike the flat frontof the Africans. Asian elephants also have smaller, rounder ears and patches of
depigmentation on their hides.
• The trunk is the most distinctive physical trait of an elephant, containing about 100,000
different muscles that allow it to lift heavy objects. Projections at the end of their trunk
help them pick up tasty treats – a feat slightly easier for African elephants, which have
two projections, unlike Asian elephants that have only one.
• For a creature so large, elephants are quite the ninjas. They walk almost silently,
thanks to the soft padding covering their feet that dulls any sound. Asian elephants are
more agile on their feet due to their slighter build.
• Elephants are known to communicate with seismic vibrations, where they can detect
other elephants and predators through vibrations in the ground. Using their trunks andbones in their feet and shoulders, the low-frequency seismic vibrations are transferredto the elephant’s ear, enabling it to ‘hear’ sounds from great distances.

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life of luxury //Bibelots To Covet

Accentuate your dress sense with these luxurious ornaments.

Timeless Beauty

Paying tribute to Monsieur Dior’s couture, Diorama Précieuse by Dior is a classy
yet sophisticated collection inspired by the Diorama evening dress presented at the
Spring/Summer 1951 catwalk show. Embellished with unravelled 18K gold ribbons
that create a ripple effect for asymmetrical wear, designer Victoire de Castellane adds
coloured stones like amethysts and emeralds to furnish this jewel with a vibrant andfeminine touch.

Coming Together

Giving BackLouis Vuitton is giving back to society, especially to the children in need, with
its latest partnership with UNICEF that features the Silver Lockit. This simple yet
opulent pendant or bracelet is inspired by the unpickable tumbler lock invented by
George Vuitton in 1890 that was initially used on trunks to keep clients’ belongings
safe. The lock has since become an iconic Louis Vuitton emblem, as well as asymbol of protection. The Silver Lockit, crafted from sterling silver, is available at
Louis Vuitton stores worldwide and USD200 from the sale of each item will be
donated to UNICEF.

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Azure Adornment

Ispired by the depths of the sea, the Ulysse Anchor Tourbillon by Ulysse Nardin is alimited edition timepiece that comes with a cascade of sapphire hues. Meticulously
handcrafted in-house at Donzé Cadrans, the cavities or cells of this wristwatch areformed in a thick metal surface and then lled with powdered blue enamel and red
until it melts. Once cooled, it is sanded by hand to bring out the natural blue glow.

Marking the 85th anniversary ofJaeger-LeCoultre's Reverso timepiece,
the manufacture joins forces with renowned
shoe designer, Christian Louboutin, tointroduce a refreshed line of its iconic
Reverso timepieces. Taking inspirationfrom the magnificent galleries in Paris,
carved wood lattice work of North Africa
and even from his own shoe collections,
Louboutin reveals that each Reverso hasa unique aspect with a surprise element
while still respecting the manufacture’s
identity. The Reverso Classic Duetto has
also been updated: while the emblematic
face on the front, with its classic Art
Deco lines, is unchanged, the back isembellished with two rows of diamondson either side of the dial – a tasteful touch
by Louboutin.

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life profile //life profile //The
Glamorous
Life
Nobody does glamour like Julien Macdonald, with his
distinctive style on red carpets. For the first time, these
iconic designs were showcased together with the magnificent
timepieces of A Journey Through Time IX.
Text Chin Mui Yoon Photography Jack Wong

Despite a hectic schedule that spansinternational proportions, Julien Macdonald
is surprisingly affable and calm, pausing
to exchange friendly hellos with the staff at
Starhill Gallery. The iconic British designer
has an endearing warmth that makes
him so easy and pleasant to talk to. We
meet on a stiflingly hot afternoon when
the Welsh designer was in Kuala Lumpur
to launch a rare retrospective collection of
his ultra glamorous gowns that have beenworn by Hollywood A-List stars on red
carpet events.
The fashion showcase of 50 couture pieces
was part of Asia’s premier watch, jewellery
and lifestyle showcase, A Journey ThroughTime IX, including six dresses that were
exclusively designed for the show and his
latest collection unveiled at London Fashion
Week. Macdonald beams, as he explains
his fondness for Malaysia and, especially,
for such a momentous occasion. “This is
my fourth visit here; I like Malaysia, the city,and the fabulous beaches and culture,” he64

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explains. “I met Dato’ Yeoh Soo Min (YTL
Corporation Berhad Executive Director) and
Dato’ Jimmy Choo when I first came here
as a judge for Britain’s Next Top Model in2010. Since then, I’ve always wanted toreturn, which I did, to open the Debenhams
store. Dato’ Soo Min had attended myshow in London and wanted to bring theexcitement to Malaysia.
“So, she asked me to be part of A
Journey Through Time and wanted me
to do an exhibition like a retrospective of
my favourites. I have never seen them all
together in one room before. They tell mylife’s story, so it’s very emotional for me,
as it’s truly a journey through time for me
personally as well. It’s nice that people getto see my work and understand the craft
behind the dresses that have been wornby Shakira, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and Kim
Kardashian. For a lot of people, they see
these celebrities only on TV or social media;
but it’s great to see the clothes that they
actually wear up close and go wow!”

Indeed, these showstoppers have elicitedmany responses from visitors. Each pieceis an expression of pure design andbreathtaking craftsmanship. Through theexhibition, Macdonald’s spectacular works
can be appreciated. not just from afar in
all their shimmering appeal, but closely
examined in their abundance of stunningdetail wrought with sequins, crystals,
feathers, lace and rhinestones. Even themost restrained designs include a sneaka-peek here and there, or a touch of
glamour injected somewhere, be it downa cleavage or a sexy slit slithering up a hip.
Barely there wisps of lace, trails of sequinsand nets are so masterfully designed thatthey breathe an allure on their own even
without the famous bodies that haveadorned them.
Macdonald himself is especially fond ofa pink dress designed for Dame Shirley
Bassey for her appearance at the 2007
Glastonbury Festival. “I’ve been dressing
Dame Shirley for a long time and we are
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life profile //“With fashion, you are
only as good as yourlast collection. You
always get judged byyour latest work. You
can never ‘disappear’
once you’ve established
your business.”good friends,” he explains. “The weather
was terrible that day, so I added a pair of
Wellington boots just for her, studded withcrystals bearing her initials. Everyone justwent crazy when she walked through the
mud!” A portrait of Bassey at that sodden
Glastonbury Festival, looking resplendentin her Julian MacDonald pink dress andiconic diamanté Wellington boots, wassubsequently displayed at London’s
National Portrait Gallery.
Eight dresses were designed exclusively
for Kuala Lumpur, inspired from his
trips to Malaysia, with a vivid yellow one
representing our abundant sunshine anda hot, fire-red dress inspired by the Orient.
Travel, Macdonald says, has been a sourceof inspiration for over a decade. “I take ina lot of culture and history everywhere I
go. My last collection was inspired by Bali,
through its textiles and temples, religion
and traditions. I made it modern andglamorous by translating the past for the
future. After all, nobody wants to look likea museum, but young and fresh!
“I’m delighted to have my brand worn bydifferent women of all ages, sizes andshapes, not just models or celebrities.
My clothes empower a woman; they help
her feel strong, confident and happy. My
dresses are for very special occasions
that become memories. You may have aterrible day at work and, once home, you
put on this fabulous dress and you will
smile and feel happy. You don’t have tolook glamorous every but, just for Friday,
perhaps you can!”At 44, Macdonald maintains a smart,dapper figure, largely due to his disciplinein eating healthily and exercising. He is
also an avid dancer and has served asa resident fashion expert for the show It
Takes Two in 2012 and as a competitor
in Strictly Come Dancing. Born and raisedin the South Wales town of Merthyr Tydfil,
Macdonald has always been artistic
through drawing and dancing. A foundation
course at the Cardiff Art College led to a

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degree in Fashion Textiles in Brighton, andhe went on to receive his MA at London’sRoyal College of Art.
Macdonald was destined for the stars
as, immediately after his graduation in
1996, Karl Lagerfeld noticed his talents
and appointed him knitwear design head
for Chanel. In 2001, Macdonald wasnamed British Fashion Designer of theYear and succeeded Alexander McQueen
as Creative Director of renowned French
fashion house, Givenchy. Three years
later, Macdonald received the Order of the
British Empire for his contribution to the
fashion industry.

You always get judged by your latest work.
You can never ‘disappear’ once you’veestablished your business. You have toconstantly work and design creatively.
It is an extremely demanding job. A lotof designers can’t take the pressure. At
Givenchy, I was designing six collections
a year, with two ready-to-wear and twohaute couture. On top of that, I was theface of the brand and oversaw everything,right down to window displays and evendoorknobs! I was young at 28 then. All myfriends had a life, parties and holidays. I felt
my life slipping away and, along with it, myyouth. That was when I decided to leave
after my three-year term was over.”“As we get older, we have experienced
life and learned from mistakes, and try ourbest not to repeat them. With fashion, you
are only as good as your last collection.

People often see only 20 per cent of thelife of a fashion designer – the runways
and spotlights, cocktails and celebrities.
“Fashion can be incredibly glamorousand rewarding,” says Macdonald. “Butthousands do not make it; very few do,
actually. I think designers need to havean identity and a strong brand. Mine isglamorous dresses and great knitwear,
and people recognise those trademarks.
I also tend not to listen to critics. I givea lot of talks at colleges and I’d always
tell young designers not to ever give up.
Some days are better than others. One
day, dreams will come true because it has
happened for me.”Macdonald also acknowledges theimportance of a supportive family. “A lotof parents want their children to succeed,by becoming lawyers, accountants or
biologists; when you say you want to bea fashion designer, they’ll tell you that’s
not a real career. My father was a farmer
and my mum was a nurse; they werevery regular folks. I was very lucky thatboth supported me in what I wanted todo. My mum sent me to drama class; I
was like Billy Elliot, always artistic!” says
Macdonald with a laugh. He adds quietly:“People always ask me how I made it thisfar. I believe I was born with a gift in life.
Everyone has one but not everyone finds
it, or they discover it too late. I was justincredibly lucky I found mine when I wasyoung and I managed to make it work
for me.”Macdonald adds that he is continuously
growing his brand and making it moreaccessible by developing ready-to-wearcollections with an Italian manufacturer
that will be available in boutiques. “People

say that they love my clothes but they
are just too expensive!” he laughs. (Thefabulous pink dress made for Dame
Shirley Bassey cost GBP50,000.)
Following his showcase in Kuala Lumpur,
Macdonald is headed for anothertreasured trip to one of YTL Hotels’ stableof exquisite resorts – Gaya Island Resort
in Sabah. “I’ve travelled to all of YTL’s
resorts and Pangkor Island Resort is my
favourite. And not just for me, but people
like Pavarotti and Elle Macpherson, whohave travelled the world. I’m literally goingback to paradise. I love the tranquillity
and beauty of such unspoilt places in theworld. And, again, I am so incredibly lucky
and thankful I get to come back here.”
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beautiful life //Dauntless Diva

Playing safe is long gone. It’s time to bring out yourinner diva with these daring fashion choices.

Being Transparent

Jackets are not necessarily meant to be black and boring. The latest women's collection
from McQ by Alexander McQueen is where modern meets old-fashioned luxury,
revamping the whole idea of the jacket and reintroducing it with a contemporary twist. A
classic cropped biker is redesigned in clear PVC, juxtaposing the classic interpretationof youth culture with a more feminine transparency. This avant-garde statement wear isfor anyone wanting to take their fashion sense to the next level.

Free And Fabulous

Inspired by the life painting of a meadow
on black canvas, Khoon Hooi’s Spring/
Summer 2016 collection joyfully
celebrates the idea of freedom and lightthat comes from looking at this painting.
In this collection, textures and prints arecarefully placed to project a harmonised
look by using brocades, nylon, lace andraffia, just like a brush mix on a colour
palette. Fabric movement is also givenhigh importance in this collection, where
the back of the dresses and tops arepleated to give volume, skirts are draped
asymmetrically channelling out lightness,
and nylon dresses crafted for a lusciousand owy nish.

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Bike Bags

This season, Kenzo celebrates the power of fearless women by taking a closer look attheir adventurous lifestyle as well as their light yet pragmatic sense of dressing. Inspiredby that idea, Kenzo created the Bike belt bag in black leather, which is accompanied byprotective clutches that bear a resemblance to military water bottles. Ranging from simple
to studded, Kenzo promises a bag that is both stylish and practical for daily use.

Step It Up

If you think cowboy boots are passé,
think again. This season, Sergio Rossi
introduces boots with prominent, sleeklines and soft suede in golden hues thatmake a fashion statement. Presented
as part of the Sergio Rossi Cruise 2016
Collection, these boots feature detailed
embroidery and leather embellishments
inspired by eyelet laces to create aromantic and modern version of thetypical 1970s boots.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE69JULIEN'S

jewels

The recent ninth edition of A Journey Through Time,
Asia’s premier watch and jewellery showcase, had astylish twist to it when acclaimed British designer, Julien
Macdonald, treated guests to a presentation of eight new
creations, designed exclusively for the event and inspiredby the unique beauty of Malaysia, and photographed on
location at the new-look The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.
Photography Ian Wong Styling & Art Direction Sheila Cheah
Hair Cody Chua Makeup Nelson Tham Models Kika V/Attitude Model

IRDINAThe long expanse of alabastersands on Pulau Tulai, an
uninhabited coral island off thenorth-eastern coast of Tioman, isbrought to fashionable life in Irdina –a divinely modern yet contemporary
design featuring hand-embroideredmesh in a pure oor-length gown.

IMAN

Colour is key in this eyecatching gown, which featuresexquisitely detailed handembroidered French lace withrened embellishment. The
rich hue of this gown was
inspired by the opulent coloursof Malaysia’s coral reefs.

BATRISYA

Famed for its ancient rainforests,
this stunning emerald column oor
length dress pays tribute to Taman
Negara, the country’s national park.
A rich belt, encrusted with handcut glass elements and Swarovski
crystals, cinches the waist in
stunning style.

DHIA

The islands of Malaysia’s East
Coast are justiably stunning,with the largest island among
them, Redang, being one of themost popular due to its crystal
waters, rich marine life and whitesand beaches. Here, Macdonald
pays tributes to Redang’s lapping
waves in this owing gown thatfeatured a luxurious nude silk capeand hand-embroidered meshdetail across the chest.

ARIANNA

Citing its inspiration as the famous
limestone hill of Batu Caves in Kuala
Lumpur, which houses one of themost important Hindu shrines in
Malaysia and is dedicated to Lord
Murugan, the son of Shiva andParvati, the Arianna gown featuresa white-hot glamorous skirt with adelicately embellished top, bringing
the ornate temple detailing to mind.

AQUILAH

Inspired by Malaysia’s Kanching
recreational forest, located in between
the towns of Rawang and Selayang,this vibrant gown is fashioned out of
overdyed metallic lace adorned withplated metallic studs, while bullion
birds are embroidered almost as if
uttering down from the wearer’s
heart. The beautiful draped skirt is adirect tribute to the owing beauty ofthe seven-tiered Kanching Falls.

AZELEAThe cool mistiness of Cameron
Highlands, Malaysia’s premier hill
station, and its surrounding rockcliffs and pebbles form the basisof this elegant stone-coloured
oor length gown, integrated witha glistening hand-stitched belt andsmooth shtail train.

beautiful life //Personal Pampering
Indulge yourself with these must-try fragrance and skincare products.

Lineless Skin

Floral Fragance

Introducing the new Mimosa & Cardamomcologne by Jo Malone – a fragrance
inspired by the bohemian spirit ofadventure from the Victorians. Wanting tocreate something bold and intriguing thatwill leave a lasting impression, renowned
perfumer Marie Salamagne combined
two intrepid ingredients – mimosa andcardamom – to create a strong yet
sensual scent. The additional touchesof tonka beans, complemented with thearoma of English pear, blooming freesia
and red roses, gives this unusual blend awarm and soothing fragrance.

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It’s never too late t o fight wrinkles.
La Prairie’s new Anti-Aging Rapid
Response Booster promises to be themost advanced wrinkle interceptor todate. This lightweight liquid gel serum
utilises an anti-wrinkle delivery system
where peptide is directed to the exact
area needed to reduce depth and lengthof wrinkles in just two weeks. A naturederived neuro-calming agent, peptide
aids in reducing the aging process andreinforces skin’s barrier protection while
restoring hydration. A gel that leaves theskin feeling plumped and smooth for alineless future.

Fairer You

Pursuing La Mer’s heritage of healing, the deluxe skincare brand is back with its
recently innovated Blanc de la Mer collection. The Brilliance White Lotion and BrillianceWhite Essence are two of the latest additions to the range, after scientists at Max Huber
Research Labs meticulously engineered an improvement to whitening technology.
This soothing yet effective regiment utilises the benets of marine ingredients to give
skin a new and much-needed ageless transformation. Calm, hydrated and glowing
skin is promised.

Eclipse Aroma

If the combined scent of freshness andsensuality excites you, then Sunshine for
Man by Amouage might be your preferred
perfume. Inspired by the eclipse, thisfragrance uses lavender as the aromaticbase as well as other intriguing ingredientslike everlasting flower, orange brandy,
juniper berries and tonka bean. This spicy
fragrance is the counterpart to the brightand joyful Sunshine for Woman launchedin 2014.
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life feature //life feature //A Tale Of
Two Theatres

Theatre Royal BathWhen making the rounds in Bath, don’t forget tocheck out the gems that are The Little Theatre
Cinema and the Theatre Royal Bath.
Text Christy Yoong

There’s plenty to do in Bath. When you’re
not enjoying the sensuous luxuries of The
Gainsborough Bath Spa, this historic city
offers a myriad of activities, from shoppingand sightseeing, to pleasure cruises andnature trails. More leisurely pleasures,
however, can be had at The Little Theatre
Cinema and the Theatre Royal Bath,two of the city’s most venerable artistic
institutions, conveniently located just a
short walk away from The GainsboroughBath Spa.

The Little Theatre

The Little Theatre Cinema is on St
Michael’s Place, virtually on the doorstep
of both The Gainsborough Bath Spa
and the Thermae Bath Spa, right in theheart of the city. Bath’s only remaining
independent cinema, The Little Theatre80

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has been entertaining and educating thecity for 80 years. Founded by community
theatre pioneer, Consuelo de Reyes,
and her stage-designer husband, Peter
King, in 1935, The Little Theatre began
as a news theatre, screening hourly
programmes of documentaries andnewsreels. It expanded its repertoire when
it started showing feature  lms in 1939,
beginning with Anna Neagle’s Peg of Old
Drury and Will Hay’s Oh, Mr Porter!
Its building dates from 1726 and was
originally a large town house. De Reyes
ran an experimental theatre in an adjoining
building, Citizen House, until it was
accidentally destroyed by a re. She thenturned her attention next door to open
The Little Theatre. In addition to the main
auditorium, it also boasted a roof garden

theatre as well as a tea and coffee lounge.
In the years since, The Little Theatre has
undergone various refurbishments andis now a three-screen cinema. Both theroof garden and lounge, alas, are gone
but it has been upgraded to the latest indigital sound and projection technology,
while seats have been renewed, offering
the best in comfort. Within its creamy
Bath stone façade, however, it hasretained its original charm of a 1930s
cinema, complete with a balcony in themain auditorium. It continues to screensome of the best films from all over theworld, including classics of the silver
screen, as well as running an excellent
arthouse film programme.
picturehouses.com/cinema/The_Little

The stage has enjoyed a long presencein Bath – its first theatre was built all
the way back in 1705. George Trim’s
cramped playhouse, on Borough Walls,
was a response to the visits Queen Annemade to the city in the late 17th andearly 18th centuries. More theatres wereconstructed in the following decades,
including one on Orchard Street, set up by
local chandler and brewer, John Palmer, in
1750, which opened with a performanceof Shakespeare’s Henry IV. His son, also
named John, was granted a royal patent
16 years later, creating the first Theatre
Royal outside London. It became a great
success and, soon, a season in Bath was
as important for actors as a London billing.

Ellen Terry as Titania in A MidsummerNight’s Dream.

In the early 19th century, however, plans
were made for a new theatre and in
1805, the Theatre Royal Bath moved toits present location in Sawclose (a fiveminute walk away from The GainsboroughBath Spa), into a building designed by
George Dance, Professor of Architecture
at the Royal Academy, débuting with
Shakespeare’s Richard III on 12 October.
The theatre on Orchard Street closed
and, today, is an atmospheric masonicmuseum. George Dance’s building wasdestroyed by a re in 1862 and the theatre
was rebuilt according to a design by CJ
Phipps. Shakespeare, again, was the
choice for the reopening, with the great

The Theatre Royal has undergone
extensive refurbishment since but its core
mission of producing the best and mostinteresting plays, performed by some of
the biggest names in theatre has remained
unchanged. In 1997, the theatre createdthe Ustinov Studio, originally as a space foryouth theatre and touring productions but
now including classical concerts, stand-up
comedy as well as in-house productions.
A children’s theatre, the egg, was setup in 2005. In addition to theatre, there
is also The Vaults Restaurant that serves
pre-show meals, as well as two bars anda café. To complete your experience at theTheatre Royal Bath, look out for its most

famous ghost, The Grey Lady, whose
appearance is usually accompanied by
the strong scent of jasmine, dressed in an
18th-century evening dress with feathers
in her hair!
theatreroyal.org.uk

HEART OF HISTORYHoused within two 19th-century
buildings, The Gainsborough Bath Spa
offers the only natural thermal spa within
a hotel in the UK. Located in the heartof this UNESCO World Heritage Site,
the hotel is mere minutes away from
Bath’s top historic and entertainment
attractions, making it the perfect baseto explore the city and its beautiful
surrounds. For more details, visit
www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

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life profile //East & WestIn BathDining at Johann Lafer at The Gainsboroughis among the myriad pleasures on offer at the
UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath.
It’s not easy to get lost in Bath. The centre of this UNESCO World
Heritage Site is easily accessible on foot and, within just a day, you’llnavigate its many compact streets and back lanes like a native.
That’s not to say that the city is short on attractions, however. Nearly
2,000 years of history are crammed together into the city, with thefirst century AD cheek by jowl with the later 16th-century BathAbbey. Architecturally, Bath is almost picture postcard perfect, withsome of the most iconic buildings in the UK.
Pleasures of a less serious kind are just as abundant – loversof the outdoors would find plenty to explore at Prior Park andLongleat Safari and Adventure Park, while the bold would thrill at
the challenge of Cheddar Gorge. More sedentary gratification canbe had at the city’s shopping areas of Milsom Street and Artisan
Quarter, and, of course, a spa treatment, Bath’s original raisond'être, is a ineluctable recompense after all that exploring.
While a Sally Lunn bun is de rigueur when you’re in Bath, there
are endless other dining options in the city that range from a local
pie in The Raven pub to a champagne afternoon tea at The Jane
Austen Centre Regency Tea Room. The recent opening of The
Gainsborough Bath Spa, part of YTL Hotels, has also added anelevated option to the city’s dining scene. The hotel’s Johann
Lafer at The Gainsborough is a collaboration with Johann Lafer,one of Germany's most celebrated Michelin-starred chefs and TV
personalities. Lafer’s first restaurant venture outside Germany, thegourmet philosophy behind Johann Lafer at The Gainsborough,‘Dining Without Borders’, is based on using fresh and locallysourced produce to create truly innovative dishes.

The owner of Stromburg Castle, a hotel and dining destinationin Stromberg, Germany, talks to YTL Life about his hopes andinspiration for Johann Lafer at The Gainsborough.
What is the most important thing about food for you?
Foremost is the pure delight of using absolutely fresh and highquality ingredients, combined with creativity and passion for
excellent taste and look. Wherever possible, I prefer seasonal andlocal food blended with Asian touches.
What is the essence of a well-run kitchen?
It is more than just a proper place to work; it’s about motivatedchefs and staff who are full of energy and creativity, have a greatlove for food, are disciplined, and only wish to make guests happy.
A well-run kitchen is also about carefully selected, fresh and thebest quality ingredients and spices.
What are the most important characteristics that achef needs?
In my opinion, a good chef needs plenty of passion, discipline,
knowledge of food and producers alike, patience, a good sense fortaste and textures, creativity, curiosity to experience, a good feelingfor freshness and tasty combinations, and, of course, a feel for new
trends and personal love for the delights of food.
How you do inspire yourself and your staff to consistently
create the best food possible?
It is our aim to make our guests happy with the food we create.
We never stop trying out new things, to taste everything the world
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life profile //has to offer in terms of food, and to create new tastes and texturesout of what the seasons, farmers and markets have to offer. Our
personal skills in creating the very best and most harmonic foodexperiences for our guests are our daily inspiration.
What does the food that you serve say about you – as anindividual and as a chef?
The food I serve is a mirror of my character and personality. It says
a lot about my passion for details, freshness, creativity, quality andexcellence. My personal philosophy, ‘A life for good taste’, does
not differ much from my being a chef. The knowledge of food, of
farmers and producers who offer top quality, of cooking techniques
and of the taste of my guests are add-ons to what I love personally:
Creating happiness by wonderful dishes for the people I serve.
Much has been made of your friendship with Chef Wai Look
Chow (pictured at left) of YTL Hotels. How has this influenced
you as a chef?
Our friendship has influenced me a lot. He introduced me to the
spices and creations of the Malay and Asian cuisines that I hadn’t
known before, just like I introduced him to many German andEuropean delights. We both created a lot of new fusion dishes
combining the best of Eastern and Western tastes, which hasdelighted our customers – not only at The Gainsborough Bath Spa.
YTL Hotels and my Stromburg Castle in Germany have exchanged
chefs for several years, and both sides have been inspired to new
culinary highs. The results for both of us in terms of excellent cuisine
are splendid, especially with Chef Wai.

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How do you feel, so far, about your collaboration with YTLHotels at Johann Lafer at The Gainsborough?
It is simply wonderful. With this restaurant, I can create happinessfor hotel guests, locals and tourists alike. It is a great chance forme to merge my philosophy, ‘A life for good taste’, with that of YTL
Hotels’ ‘Treasured Places, Treasured Moments’. It feels like thetitle of a deep friendship, and I feel absolutely honoured to havethe chance to prove myself with YTL Hotels outside Germany.
What is the philosophy behind the menu at Johann Lafer at
The Gainsborough?
We practise the philosophy behind Two Friends – One Cuisine(the highly acclaimed cookbook co-written with Chef Wai), where
East meets West in culinary choices. Each dish combines thefinest in product freshness and quality, with an Asian touch.
Menus are the utmost of culinary delights combining all senses:
the look of the restaurant and dishes, the soothing surroundings,
the gentle flavour of spices and most delightful tastes, fromappetisers to afters.
How different is the kitchen there compared to the one at
Stromburg Castle?
At Stromburg Castle, we have two restaurants – the Michelinstarred Le Val d’Or and the more casual Bistro d’Or. The difference
between Stromburg Castle and here is the difference in local
products between Germany and the UK. The quality and freshness
is the same in both places. Regional and seasonal products fromfarmers and producers differ, as well as the individual taste ofregular customers. Here in Bath, we focus a little bit more on lightcuisine, respecting the splendid thermal spa nature of Bath.
How do you decide what to serve at Johann Lafer at The
Gainsborough?
We want to please our customers in every way and focus on
seasonal and regional products in close local harmony with the cityof Bath. We combine local taste with exotic Asian touches andconcentrate on the balance of taste, texture and look of our dishes
in order to please all senses. We respect the opinion of our guests
and are happy about their comments.
Why do you include Asian influences and ingredients inthe menu?
Asian influences and ingredients are my personal favourites tocreate stunning and mouth-watering dishes. The combination ofEuropean and British products and Asian tastes are pure joy forbody and soul. In co-operation with YTL Hotels, it also underlines
the individual character of YTL Hotels’ hospitality gems.
What are your hopes for Johann Lafer at The Gainsboroughin the long-term?
I hope that Johann Lafer at The Gainsborough will be the placefor dining out in the UK and to spread the dining concept of Two
Friends – One Cuisine all over the world.
For more details on Johann Lafer at The Gainsborough, please visit
www. thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk.
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life feature //a tiger, others say he simply got lost andwas swallowed up by the jungle.” Anothertheory is that Thompson had fallen into aravine or long-forgotten animal trap. “Thejungle has many patches of land which arevery soft. And the leaf fall here is quick andheavy and could have concealed any of
the holes… Thompson might have simply
fallen into one,” adds Mokh. There are,however, other theories as well, including
those related to Thompson’s wartime
activities as a CIA agent. After all, Malaysia
then still bore the scars of ‘The Malayan
Emergency’ – the period between 1948
and 1960, and a dark patch in Malaysia’s
early history – where vicious communist
activity struck fear and terror into citizens of
the young nation.

Into Thin Air

Nearly half a century on, the disappearance of Thai Silk King
Jim Thompson remains an enduring mystery in the verdantsetting of Cameron Highlands.
Illustration Shing Yi-Chew

In 1967, on a Sunday afternoon, 61-yearold James HW Thompson, an Americanbusinessman and founder of the modern
Thai silk industry, mysteriously disappeared
while supposedly on a post-lunch stroll
in Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands. Fortynine years on, no one knows for surewhat happened to Thompson that fatefulEaster Sunday. Moonlight Cottage, where
Thompson had been staying with his
friends, Dr TG Ling and his American wife,
Helen, as well as his companion, Connie
Mangskau, remains the focal point ofinterest among conspiracy theorists as it iswhere Thompson was last seen alive.

Moonlight Cottage,
where Thompson spent
his last few days before
his disappearance.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEAs legend has it, Thompson spent themorning attending service at the little
Anglican church in Tanah Rata, before
going to a nearby hill site for a picnic lunch.
By mid-afternoon, the party had returned toMoonlight Cottage for an afternoon siesta.
The Lings had retired to their room andMangskau to hers. Whatever happenedin the next few hours remains an enduring
mystery. Thompson had left his jacket on
the chair and his cup of tea on the table.
A half-smoked cigar was still resting in an
ashtray. Reports also note that Thompson’s
bed was not even lain on and, if he had
decided to go for a post-lunch stroll,
it would have not been unusual, given
Thompson’s love of the outdoors.

Although Cameron Highlands today is a
thriving hill station, in Thompson’s time, its
surrounding jungle was decidedly denser,
with tigers and other wild animals known to
be still lurking in it. “It’s actually tremendously
easy to lose yourself in the highlands,” says
Captain Mokh, one of YTL Hotel’s resident
naturalists who also happens to havebeen part of the original search parties
that went out to hunt for Jim Thompson
the moment he was reported missing.
“There are many conspiracy theories on
Thompson’s disappearance,” adds Mokh.
“Some say he was attacked and killed by

Tragically, just five months after Thompson’s
disappearance, the body of Katherine
Thompson Wood, Thompson’s eldest
sister who lived in Pennsylvania, wasdiscovered bludgeoned to death, which
only served to renew speculation in the
mysterious disappearance of Thompson.
Many followers of the case couldn’t believe
two such tragedies in a single family could
be a mere coincidence. Whatever thetheory, it would seem that Jim Thompson
the man left as great a mark in death as hedid in real life.

THE JIM THOMPSONMYSTERY TRAILAt the Cameron Highlands Resort,
don’t miss joining its signature walk,
The Jim Thompson Mystery Trail, led by
the hotel’s resident naturalist. Explore
the surrounding hills, all the while
regaled by theories and the mysterious
c i rc u m s t a n c e s s u r ro u n d i n g t h elegendary Silk King’s disappearance.
The walk begins at Moonlight Cottage,
where Thompson was last seen alive,
and is a rambling trek, climbing all theway to 200m above sea level, before
ending at the Luther Mission House,
whose gardener at the time was the lastperson to have seen Thompson in theflesh. On the walk, expect to see floraand fauna that could include millipedes which are endemic to the highlands, bamboo
orchids, wild strangler figs and ant’s nest ferns. To book, contact the Cameron Highlands
Resort at +605 491 1100.

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life feature //The Great
EscapeFollow in the footsteps of the legendary Colonel
Freddy Spencer Chapman at The Chapman's
Challenge, scheduled to take place at YTL’s
Pangkor Laut Resort from 13 to 15 May 2016.
Photography Weng Sheng Thong Photography Edmund Lee & YTL Hotels

Come 13 May, YTL’s Pangkor Laut Resort
will be hosting a one-of-its-kind endurance
event in tribute of Colonel Freddy Spencer
Chapman, a British Commando who
fought for the Allies during the Second
World War. Legend has it that during theAllies' retreat, following the fall of Malaya,
Chapman was stranded behind enemy
lines, armed with nothing but his wits andwill to survive.

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Never one to back down from a good ght, Chapman formed a merry band ofresistance fighters that was a constantthorn in the side of the Japanese
occupation forces for almost four years.
A s t h e w a r d r a g g e d o n , h o w e v e r,
Chapman’s luck began to run dry and, on
13 May 1945, he decided to nally makea brave retreat and escape from the islandof Pangkor Laut. After losing his pursuers

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life feature //in the island’s ancient jungles, Chapman
made good his ight by swimming out of
Emerald Bay under the cover of darkness
to meet with the British submarine, theHMS Statesman.
Fast-forward to the present and Pangkor
Laut Island is a very different affair fromthe Japanese occupied hellhole it wasback during the Second World War. With
its white sandy beaches glowing in theevening sun, pristine waters and lushvirgin rainforest, Pangkor Laut Resort
certainly has a well-deserved reputation
for being one of the region’s top tropicalbeach destinations.
The Chapman's Challenge comprises
a 6.2km run through the jungles and a
1km swim across Emerald Bay to recall

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the great escape of its namesake. While
this distance is relatively short comparedwith conventional endurance events– a standard triathlon encompasses
a 1.5km swim, a 40km bike ride and
10km run – The Chapman's Challenge isby no means an endeavour to be taken
lightly. Instead of a battle of physical andmental endurance, it would instead be acontest of strength and speed; a sprint as
opposed to marathon.
Even under ideal conditions, the trail
running section of the event through theisland’s rainforests will put even seasoned
athletes to the test. All but the mostexperienced and conditioned runners willfind their pace significantly checked by
the unforgiving terrain. To put the natureof this trail run into perspective, where
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life feature //it normally takes an average runner two
to three minutes to cover 500m on a atroad, it would, instead, take them almost
10 minutes to cover the same distance inthe jungle.
However, the challenges presented
during the trail run pale in comparison tothe nal leg of The Chapman's Challenge:
the 1km open water swim. Open water
swimming is a completely different animal
to that of paddling about in a safe, cleanpool. Poor underwater visibility, battling
the tide and overcoming all your innerdemons of imaginary primeval monsters
lurking in the depths beneath are justsome of the things participants will haveto overcome here.
Upon completion of this nal gruelling legof The Chapman's Challenge, participants
will be immediately rewarded with aplatter of cold drinks and fresh coconuts
prepared by the helpful staff at Chapman’sBar, which overlooks Emerald Bay. This
is what sets The Chapman's Challengeapart from conventional endurance
events, where athletes are left to fend forthemselves after crossing the finishingline. From here, triumphant athletes mayeither choose to enjoy a sumptuous
meal at the Chapman’s Bar or indulge ina luxurious spa treatment at the Resort’saward-winning Spa Village.

Register for The Chapman's Challengeat www.pangkorlautresort.com with a fullboard package starting from MYR999 nett
per room per night, with a minimum stayof two nights. The package includes two
race entries, return scheduled speedboat
transfers, accommodation, daily meals anda post-race barbecue dinner at Emerald
Bay. Every participant will also receive
a goody bag courtesy of YTL Hotels,
Reebok, Ipanema and TYR. The top threewinners stand to win exciting stay prizes
within YTL Hotels’ global portfolio of
luxury properties.

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CHALLENGE 101

If you’re gunning for the top placeat The Chapman’s Challenge,
it’s essential that you be better
prepared and equipped than yourfellow competitors. Here are somehandy nuggets of advice from the
YTL Life team’s resident athlete andmarathoner.
TRAINING TIPS
1. Conquer your fear of open-water
swimming: Open-water swimming is a whole different animal from swimming laps in a
nice, clear swimming pool. It’s important that you are able to deal with not being able tosee what’s beneath you in a body of water.
2. Learn to love trail and hill running: Pangkor Laut is hilly and covered in jungles forthe most part, and participants will go head-to-head with this gruelling terrain come theday of the event. There will be precious few sections of at running, so you’d better get
used to traversing steep ascents and descents at speed.
3. Squats, squats and more squats all day everyday: All runners should dedicate asignicant portion of their training time to good old fashioned squats. Regardless ofwhether it’s bodyweight or weighted, squats are essential for improving a runner’s leg
power, speed and ability to deal with elevated terrain (you’ll thank us later).
PRE-RACE NUTRITION TIPS
1. Avoid spicy food: While we do love spice, it would be wise to stay away fromanything bowel-upsetting an entire day prior to the event.
2. Have a solid breakfast: Toast with peanut butter, a half-boiled egg and muesli aregood go-to choices for breakfast on the morning of any athletic event. It boasts just theright combination of complex-carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats. The last thing
you want is to get a sugar-rush from an overly sweet bowl of cereal only to crash 30
minutes later.
RACE-DAY TIPS
1. Wear trail-running shoes: Regular road-running shoes won’t be adequate for tacklingthe uneven and steep terrain at Pangkor Laut. Compared to regular running shoes,
trail-running shoes offer greater ankle support, better grip and retain less water. I’drecommend a pair of trial-running shoes from Salomon, Brooks, Innov-8 or Reebok.
2. Don a triathlon bodysuit or compression wear: Not only will such attire improve youraerodynamics during the swimming portion of The Chapman’s Challenge, it also decent
protection against, depending on the season, potential jellysh stings.
3. Bring knee and ankle supports if required: If you have a history of creaky limbs, thenyou might want to invest in solid knee or ankle support. You would hardly want is to
twist an ankle during the trail-running portion of the Challenge, which can be somewhat
treacherous and slippery in the event of rain.
POST-EVENT RECOVERY TIPS
1. Refuelling your body: You’ve done it, but you’re not out of the woods yet. To ensurethat your body recovers swiftly and smoothly, it’s important to properly hydrate andrefuel yourself. Fresh coconut water, a protein shake and a good solid meal will help
facilitate this.
2. Rewarding your body: The time has come to reward yourself and there are few
better ways to do so that than with a visit to the Pangkor Laut Resort’s Spa Village. The
Cleansing Ritual will purify your body of the dirt and grime of the event, and your achingmuscles will surely appreciate the relaxing treatment offered by the massage therapies.

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life feature //Good Vibrations
Why a session of sensory sound bathing at
Spa Village Kuala Lumpur could be music to yourears… and balm for your body.
Photography Edmund Lee Art Direction Penny Chew

It has been said that everything in the universe vibrates withenergy. From river stones to crystal, this mass chord of theuniverse is present in anything that is made up of atoms. Kinetic
energy amplies this and mystics have long believed that, onceour beings are in rhythmic harmony with the subtle hum of life, weare on the path to wellness. Daily stressors, all part of modernday living, can sometimes drown out our ability to perceive theuniverse’s mass chord. The din of traffic as well as mindlesschatter and noise pollution… all these, in some way, affect ourwellbeing. Hence, the need to ensure our individual vibratory
frequency is more imperative than ever.

Enter Spa Village Kuala Lumpur’s Sensory Sound Bath. Held in
the newly refurbished Sensory Room, this 90-minute treatment isa journey to deep relaxation and health. As you relax on the mat,under a ceiling studded with illuminated stars, let the therapist
begin to massage you using essential oils and hot stones, ina rhythmic motion that eases tensions within your body whileloosening all accumulated kinks and knots – the result ofdeskbound work as well as negative emotions. In the darkness,the sensation of being pressed with hot stones and massaged
with therapeutic essential oils is enough to lull you into slumber.
Although few pleasures equal that of a really good massage,
it is the finishing element of the Sensory Sound Bath that issaid to hold the most benets. Ending with a 10-minute closing
session of sound bath meditation, your therapist will also utilise asymphonic gong, whose harmonic and universal sound structure
is said to be akin to the healing vibrations of the universe. As
the deeply reverberating hum washes over your body, this is thetime to reect, let go and yet focus on your individual awareness.
As the sound carries, it is said that the body responds, on acellular level, to this soothingly healing vibrational therapy.
Instruments like singing bowls have long been used to mimic
the earth’s ideal frequency, likewise the benefits of a gong
bath meditation are said to be many, including the reductionof stress on unprecedented levels, while the sound waves aid
in dislodging emotional, physiological and spiritual blockages– much the same way crystals are used to open up chakras
to allow for optimum energic glow. If this seems a little hard tofathom, liken it to the act of clean eating and exercising. Just as
it works wonders for the physical, sound bathing does the same
– but primarily on the nervous system. After all, as anyone who
pursues wellness knows that, at its most basic, the point is torestore balance. So, let the power of sound and resonance work
together for your healing and wellbeing.
Spa Village Kuala Lumpur is located on Level 4 of
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur. For more details, please go towww.spavillage.com/kualalumpur.

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life profile //Be Well In Bali

The Island of the Gods is the perfect destination if you’re searching for a havenin which to rejuvenate and recharge. YTL Life speaks to Savitri Talahatu,
the Wellness Director of YTL Hotels’ Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali to nd
out what’s new to experience while there.

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life profile //If the idea of improving your health and rejuvenating your lifesounds good, try upping the ante a little by imagining doing soamidst a setting of sapphire blue seas, black volcanic sand,coconut groves and, in the distance, the majestically mysticalform of Mount Agung. In Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali, you will
discover a picture-perfect haven of wellness, where guests cometo enjoy all the pleasures and benets of spa life in a tranquil,
spiritual environment. Set in Bali’s pristine north, the waters
off the resort abound with dolphins, while the tropical climate
ensures lush gardens blooming with all the ingredients needed
in a tropical spa, including ylang-ylang, frangipani and coconut.
Savitiri Talahatu, custodian of this magical patch of paradise, tells
YTL Life what’s new to experience.
Tell us more about Kathrine Oldale-Cox’s upcoming
programme at Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali.
Aside from being an experienced yoga teacher-practitioner,
Kathrine is also a yoga therapist, nutritionist and raw food chefwith a sunny personality that matches her vibrant offerings. Thereis just no limit to what she is able to offer our guests. She may
decide to teach us how to make energy balls with cacao andgoji berries, or look around for herbs to keep our skin looking
healthy. Personally, I will take her Integrated Yoga Healing Therapy
for deep healing and combine that with Nutritional Consultation toenhance the body’s innate ability to perform at an optimum levelof wellness. Kathrine is also able to perform chakra rebalancing
using healing crystals, which is a full body treatment and one thatis deeply restorative and therapeutic.
What are the main benets of chakra rebalancing
with crystals?
There are so many benets of chakra rebalancing using healing
crystals. However, to get the most out of a chakra rebalancing
session, you would need to know, rst, what chakras are and why
they need to be balanced. Essentially energy vortices that exist
within the subtle etheric body, they transmit life force energy, witheach chakra governing a specic bodily function of the organs or
glands closest to the area where it is located. Each chakra is known
to represent a ‘quality’, which may be blocked when the person
is unable to express themselves fully in any of the seven major
chakras. Crystals, mostly quartz or other semi-precious stones, areused as they are minerals with high healing vibrations – conduits forclearing any blockages. For example, the third chakra, located in thesolar plexus, is the centre of your own personal power. If balanced,
you will have a strong sense of self. If it needs rebalancing, you
may feel the need to blame or belittle others in order to feel right or
better about yourself. Psychological symptoms may include lack ofconcentration and memory, fear, feeling uncentred, sugar addictions
and insomnia. Physical symptoms may include digestive and98

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intestinal disorders, indigestion, food allergies, eating disorders,poor metabolism, diabetes, obesity, eczema, acne and otherstress-related skin conditions. In a chakra rebalancing session,
I would use a yellow semi-precious stone, like yellow citrine oramber, for the third chakra and turquoise for the throat chakra. I
would place these crystals on the aforementioned chakras anduse another modality, such as Reiki, to (re)move the energy in theaffected area or areas. The person may start to feel stronger andclearer almost immediately.
And what about Integrated Yoga Healing Therapy?
In Kathrine’s own words, Integrated Yoga Healing Therapy is afull body treatment carried out oriental style, with the recipient
wearing light comfortable clothing, lying on a thin mat on the oor.
It is a deeply restorative and therapeutic treatment combining
methodology from various traditions, including Japanese shiatsu,
Thai yoga massage, Neuromuscular Trigger Point Release andTrager. It promotes healing and relaxation across all levels of being.
We have also read about Sattvic diet. Can you tell us more?
The simplest way to explain a Sattvic (light and lively) diet is toliken it to what high octane fuel is to luxurious cars. The benets
are many but the main ones include the promotion of strength,
calmness, mindfulness, perfect health and longevity. It also
eliminates fatigue while promoting peace and tranquillity. The
Sattvic diet is also easily digestible, while working to strengthen
the stomach, intestine, liver and the pancreas. If you have highblood pressure or are prone to diabetes, you will nd Sattvic food
improves your health, the health of your skin and hair and, not tomention, your internal organs.
Will one be able to enjoy a Sattvic menu at Spa Village
Resort Tembok, Bali?
The food here is always of quality, fresh and nutritious. Certainly,
we will have a lot more Sattvic vegetarian and even veganchoices soon.
What else have you planned for the months to come?
There will be select choices of Ultimate Wellness Retreats to caterto our guests’ vast interests. We have recently launched Returnto Yourself – a yoga and wellness retreat geared towards the
single traveller or those travelling in a small group of a maximumof four women, which starts on the rst Monday of each month.
In the pipeline is Soul Renewal – An Inward Journey to the Self,a wellness and yoga retreat for those wishing to recharge andreboot their lives.
To nd out more on the wellness experiences at Spa Village Resort
Tembok, Bali, please visit www.spavillageresort.com.

SAVITRI’S STYLE
An easy guide to a blissful day
in Tembok.
0630hrs: Greet the sun in the best possible
way, with a sunrise cruise in the resort’s
traditional jukong (Balinese catamaran).
0700hrs: Make time for a complimentaryyoga session, which happens daily, except
Friday and Saturday. Or opt for a bicycle tour
to nearby Les Waterfall, followed by a picnic
breakfast.
0800hrs: Savour the joys of a slow, steadybreakfast or opt for one of the complimentary
movement classes, like Yoga Swing, Nyuwun
Yoga, Fitness Circuit or Pencak Silat, a
traditional Balinese martial art.

0900hrs: A tour to Ponjok Batu temple iswell-worth doing, followed by a visit to Surya
Indigo, a women’s weaving cooperative.
1100hrs: Make your way to the spa for a
massage or traditional therapy.
1230hrs: Head back to the Wantilan
Restaurant for a light, nutritious lunch.
1400hrs: Enjoy the resort’s infinity pool orread a book in one of the breezy gazebos.
1500hrs: Don’t miss snorkelling in the waters
just off the resort, which teem with corals andmarine life. If you have a dive license, you
may also explore some interesting wrecks
nearby. Cooking classes are also held on
Wednesdays and Saturdays.

1600hrs: If it piques your interest, a special
cultural talk is held on Fridays.
1700hrs: On Fridays, a special Balance Walk
session is also available.
1730hrs: Get ready to stretch the body again,
with complimentary Hatha Yoga sessions,
except on Thursday and Friday.
1900hrs: Watch the stars slowly illuminate thenight sky as you sit down to a scrumptious
three-course dinner or have an unforgettable
Massage under the Stars treatment.
2100hrs: Enjoy a spot of Starlight Gazing
while oating on an inatable bed in the pool
– the perfect way to wind down the day andensure a restful night’s sleep.

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life moments //The Historical Hills

Cameron Highlands has long held the distinction of being Malaysia’s premierhill station and preferred retreat from the tropical temperatures that cansometimes soar. Here, amidst the emerald, cloud-swathed hills, lie gushingwaterfalls, nature trails, tea plantations and numerous historical landmarksthat stand proud in the crisp cool air. Terence Waller, Resort Manager of
Cameron Highlands Resort, shares his favourite things about life high above
the valley oor. There’s magic in the mist, we say.
Photography Yong Keen KeongHorse PlayIf you like horses, do visit the Equine Horse
Spelling Station – Cameron Highlands’ one andonly – which was opened in 1919 by Major Paddy
Doyle, although a certain Captain Blockson, a former
British army captain, was the original owner. Today,
it remains the only spelling in the highlands area andis the place to send your polo ponies, racehorses or
equestrian steeds for professional care or R&R.

Trail Mix

A lot of people come to the highlands to trek thenumerous trails that dot the area. There are 14 mainones; some are challenging, others not so. Be sure
to allocate between two to three hours to complete
each trail.

A Silk King Named Jim

One of the highlights of any stay at Cameron
Highlands Resort would be our signature Jim
Thompson Mystery Trail. Everyone knows thestory of Jim Thompson, the famous Thai silk king,who mysteriously disappeared in the highlands
on Easter Sunday in 1967. The trail we take youon was, in fact, used by the Japanese during theSecond World War. The communists were also
believed to have used it during the Emergency.

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life moments //A Heart For Art

The Mah Meri Art Gallery in Tanah Rata is a very
new attraction. The Mah Meri people, indigenous
t o C a r e y I s l a n d i n S e l a n g o r, h a v e b e e n
expressing their beliefs and culture through wood
carvings for over 300 years, using, primarily, ascarce mangrove wood known as Nyireh Batu
(Xylocarpus Moluccensis). Showcasing a private
collection of remarkable wood carvings thathave been painstakingly crafted by the Mah Meripeople, the museum-like gallery’s collection of
hundreds of masks, statues and sculptures is alovely way to spend a few hours.

Too Cool For School

Originally built in 1935, the Convent Church andPrimary School has seen much of the area’s
history. Beginning life as a boarding school called
the Pensionnat Notre Dame, it was later used asa hospital by the Japanese when war broke out.
The school was also commissioned by the British
Army until the early 1970s. Today, it remains oneof the iconic landmarks of Tanah Rata.

Sunday BestThe historical All Souls Church is said to havebeen one of the last places Jim Thompson visitedon Easter Sunday in 1967 when he disappeared.
Built in 1958, the history of the church can be traced
back to the early 1950s, when the Vicar of Ipoh andother expatriate clergy held occasional services
at either the Cameron Highlands Hotel (now the
Cameron Highlands Resort) or Slim School.

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No visit to Cameron Highlands is quite complete
without a visit to BOH Plantation. Founded in
1929 by JA Russell during the British colonial era,the rst BOH Plantation was set up in the Habu
district, followed by the Fairlie Tea Garden and thelatest being the Sungai Palas Tea Garden. The
latter is your best bet as it offers guided factory
tours, where you can see the entire process oftea production; literally, from plantation to tea cup!

The Temple Trail

There are two Sikh temples, built in the late
1920s and early 1930s, in Brinchang andTanah Rata that are denitely well-worth visiting.
Cameron Highlands used to have a population ofaround 500 Sikhs at one time. The temples werebuilt by hand, using wood from the surroundingarea. Over the years, they have undergone
several transformations and weekly prayers arestill held every Sunday at 5pm. The Sikh sangat(devotees) from other parts of the country andeven Singapore occasionally hold prayers in these
Gurdwara Sahib.

Terence Waller is Resort
Manager of Cameron
Highlands Resort.

Set within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Gaya Island
Resort is a gem located just off Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Golden sand beaches and crystal clear waters that teem withmarine life beckon, while the Spa Village offers guests a
unique experience of Borneo-inspired healing and wellness
traditions.
www.gayaislandresort.com

Located off the Straits of Malacca, this luxurious resort
boasts an entire tropical island all to itself. Villas aretucked into the hillside or gracefully perched on stilts
above the water, while an award-winning Spa Village offers
world-class treatments to leave you feeling recharged,
relaxed and rejuvenated.
www.pangkorlautresort.com

Embodying the essence of Malay culture and tradition,
Tanjong Jara Resort on the East Coast of Peninsular
Malaysia offers the perfect experience of Malay hospitality.
Fronted by the South China Sea and surrounded by the lush
green beauty of the local countryside, Tanjong Jara offers
you an experience of Malaysia like no other.
www.tanjongjararesort.com

This unique hill station combines all the splendour, romanceand nostalgia of the area’s grand colonial heritage while
the resort, with its luxurious rooms and award-winning
Spa Village, remains the best place to experience it all, fromverdant hills, tea plantations, rose gardens and strawberry
patches.
www.cameronhighlandsresort.com

Fully restored to its former glory, this elegant property
which dates back to the 1930s, is an Art Deco monument thatblends history with world-class hospitality. Dining options
include Hainanese favourites at the Colonial Café or aninteractive dining experience at Contango, while the rooms
are a blend of contemporary style and Old world elegance.
www.majestickl.com

Regarded as the cradle of Malaysian history, exploring
Malacca is like stepping back in time, when the port-city used
to welcome spice traders, sultans and warriors from bygone
days. Soak up all the magic at The Majestic Malacca, one of
the city’s finest hotels whose structure dates back to the1920s and whose interiors are a reflection of the city’s finepast.
www.majesticmalacca.com

Ensconced within this refreshed and stylish all-butler hotel
is a contemporary urban retreat with a legacy spanning 18
illustrious years. Located in Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle
business district, this luxury hotel is conveniently placed
for upscale shopping, dining and entertainment. It also
boasts its own award-winning spa while gourmets would be
hard-pressed to find better Cantonese cuisine than at Li Yen.
The Afternoon Tea experience is one of sheer indulgence.
www.ytlhotels.com

Located right along Bukit Bintang road in the heart ofKuala Lumpur, the JW Marriott is ideal for all travellers.
From busy executives to families wishing to soak up the city’ssights, sounds and world-class shopping, this well-placed
hotel with its extensive range of facilities is undoubtedly
the perfect choice.
www.ytlhotels.com

The heart of the village is Niseko Village’s main pulse where paved intimate walkways are flanked by contemporary shoppingand dining concepts. Just moments from Niseko Village’s award-winning hotels, residences and lifts, its slopeside location
allows for a seamless ski-in, ski-out access bteween mountain adventures and indoor diversions. The modern and the
traditional are interwoven to evoke a genteel lifestyle at the village with its authentic Japanese machiya architectural
setting. Après-ski is excitingly redefined at Niseko Village.
www.niseko-village.com

Situated at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri, Kasara Niseko Village Townhouse occupies a unique position at the heart of
Niseko Village. Eight exclusive 3-bedroom townhouses mark the first highly anticipated phase of YTL Hotels’ redefinitionof alpine living at Niseko Village with ski runs and lifts a mere heartbeat away. Embodying authentic Japanese charm with
contemporary elegance and sensitivity towards nature, the dwellings are an ode to Japan’s heritage townhouses that were
inhabited by craftsmen and wealthy merchants toward the end of the Edo period.
www.kasara.com

Set at the foot of Mount Niseko Annupuri, the Hilton Niseko
Village offers year-round activities, from skiing during thewinter season to a host of wholesome, family-friendly activities
during summer. There are also two 18-hole championshipgolf courses, a tennis complex an equestrian centre and anature-based activity centre.
www.hiltonnisekovillage.jp

Located in the heart of Niseko Village in Hokkaido, Japan,
this premium contemporary resort offers guests a seamlessexperience of stay, snow and ski. Goshiki offers a wide rangeof flavours to suit every palate while après-ski drinks are
best enjoyed at the contemporary Tomioka White Lounge.
www.thegreenleafhotel.com

Situated on Pansea Beach, without doubt one of Phuket’s
loveliest and most private, The Surin offers a perfect sliceof thai beach life. Charming cottages and suites are all
discreetly built into a carefully conserved landscape amidst
coconut trees. From sumptuous cuisine to watersports,
a world-class spa and spectacular sunsets, it combines
idyllic tropical charm with all the warmth and grace of Thai
hospitality.
Www.Thesurinphuket.Com

Black volcanic sand, majestic Mount Agung, the deep blueof the indian ocean and the mystical balinese way of life allcome together in style at the Spa Village Resort Tembok,
Bali. Set in the north of the island, it is a place of enchanting
peacefulness and a haven of wellness, where guests canenjoy all the benefits and pleasures of spa life in tranquil,
spiritual surroundings.
Www.Spavillageresort.Com/tembokbali

More than a train service, the Eastern & Oriental Express
epitomises the grandeur, luxury and romance of rail travelfrom a bygone era. Relive it today as you journey fromSingapore to Bangkok via the entire length of Peninsular
Malaysia in true luxury and ultimate overland style.
www.ytlhotels.com

The Gainsborough Bath Spa exclusively offers the only
natural thermal spa within a hotel in the United Kingdom.
Keystone to the geographic heart of Bath, the hotel is a
moment’s stroll from Bath Abbey. The high street-shoppingon Milsom Street, the Roman Baths and is the best locationfrom which to explore the city and its other pre-eminent
attractions.
www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

Guests who wish to enjoy a more spacious stay while exploring
the historical soul of Bath would do well to consider the
Elizabethan charms of the MUSE Townhouses. Spread out
over five levels, each with its own individual character, theMUSE Townhouses combine spaciousness, modern comfort
and quiet elegance all within the heart of this fine ancient
Roman spa town.
www.muse-hotels.com

Muse Bray Cottages are situated in the heart of thepicturesque village of Bray-on-Thames, Berkshire, England.
The renovated period properties consist of Bray House,originally the stables for the nearby Manor House of Brayin the 1780’s. Dormer Cottage is a particularly quaint andbeautiful 500 year old cottage while Lavender House is oneof the most stunning houses in this beautiful 14th century
village.
www.muse-hotels.com

Spa Village Pangkor LautSpa Village Cameron Highlands

A glamorous yet private hideaway in stunning Saint Tropez,
living the south of France lifestyle doesn’t get better
than at the Muse Saint Tropez. Located in Ramatuelleand surrounded by forests of umbrella pines, this bijou
property boasts just 15 suites, each named after famous‘muses’. Make it your base to exlore all the sights, sounds
and delights of this jewel of the Riviera.
www.muse-hotels.com

Two gorgeous and luxurious villas, with 9 and 6 bedrooms
respectively, offer countryside living, tranquility and peace
as well as the security of an exclusive residential estate, yetremain in close proximity to all types of amenities and are
ideal for exploring the famous costa del sol.
www.muse-hotels.com

Spa Village Malacca

Spa Village Gaya Island

The Spa Villages honour the healing culture of the region in which each is built. Each Spa Village has its own character
and authenticity, working with local healers and traditions.
www.spavillage.com

Shook! Shanghai occupies the penthouse floor of The
Swatch Art Peace Hotel, A Renaissance-style 1906 heritage
landmark on the Bund. The celebrated restaurant featuresa show kitchen where signature dishes for four different
cuisines are created around the senses, flirting withseasonal trends.
www.shookrestaurantshanghai.com

Choice is the key word when it comes to dining at Shook KL
and Lot 10 Hutong. The former offers four cuisines fromfour live kitchens, including Italian, Japanese, Chinese and
the Grill, while the latter is the de facto destination when it
comes to enjoying the best of Malaysian street food under
one well-formed roof.
www.starhillgallery.com
www.lot10hutong.com

Each Australian Marriott Hotel is situated within the central business district of its city and ideally positioned to serveboth business and leisure travellers alike. the 563-room Sydney Harbour Marriott is set in the heart of Circular Quay,
overlooking iconic landmarks the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. The 186-room Melbourne Marriott is close to the city’s
theatre precinct, the shopping districts and Chinatown. The Brisbane Marriott, with 263 rooms and 4 suites, is situatedbetween Brisbane’s CBD and the Fortitude Valley hub, close to shopping, riverside dining, and the city’s corporate andcultural locales.
www.marriott.com

Embrace the new Vistana vibes in three choice locations across Malaysia as we take business travel to the next level, Brisk,
efficient service; be it at check-in or departure. Comfortable rooms with practical amenities suited to work or relaxation plus
complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel. Pause at Barista, the 24-hour coffee bar, and adjacent communications centre,
Hub 247, for a quick business breakfast, or sit down to fresh hot meals at Cafe. Be it for work, rest or leisure, Vistana
Hotels is always welcoming, always connected, Always here. Experience the new Vistana vibes.
www.vistanahotels.com