Food + Drink
Christmas 2019: Celebrate all things merry and joyful with these must-try dinner menus in KL

14.11.2019
By Ronn Tan

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Do you hear sleigh bells ringing already? It’s time to gather your family and friends as celebrations are about to begin. Kuala Lumpur is filled with a myriad of establishments that have curated interesting and special Christmas-themed food extravaganza. The most magical time of the year requires the most tantalising of meals. Without further ado, have a look at the set menus below.
1. Saint Pierre Kuala Lumpur

Saint Pierre Festive menu
For Christmas this year, Chef Emmanuel Stroobant has curated a joyous festive menu. The Christmas Eve dinner menu is an eight-course meal featuring the chef’s modern French fare. Begin with canapés before continuing with fine de claire oyster, uni with black winter truffle, lobster with Iranian saffron, and Cornish chicken with cep mushroom. As for the main course, choose between the lamb with sage and juniper or Kyushu Wagyu (with RM190 supplement). Desserts include Spiced Wine with orange and Cinnamon with rum and coconut.
Availability: 24 December 2019 (7pm onwards)
Price: RM668
Contact: 03 2732 5008
Website
2. Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur

Mandarin Oriental Christmas Day menu
Retreat to an opulent Yuletide celebration at Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur this festive period. The hotel has a myriad of dining options but here’s one you should try—the Christmas Day five-course set dinner at its restaurant Mandarin Grill.
Price: RM408
Availability: 25 December 2019 (6.30pm – 10.30pm)
Contact: 03 2179 8798
Website
3. Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur

Le Meridien Favola Christmas menu
Do things a little different this year and celebrate Christmas the Italian way at Favola. Tantalise your taste buds with Italian Chef Domenico Piraz’s delectable creations. The Christmas Eve four-course dinner begins with either the Astice All’algherese (Boston lobster with Amoroso tomatoes, baby potatoes and Maldon salt) or Cubetto Di Manzo, Salsa Di Formaggio E Mostarda (slow cooked beef cheek cube served with light parmesan cheese fondue and mustard fruit). Next, you will get the Tortellini Natalizi (chicken and black truffle tortellini with capon consommé and Julienne of vegetables). As for mains, make a decision between Sardegna Nel Cuore (red garupa with artichokes, black olives, Sardinian Fregula, and light saffron broth) or Classico Ma Moderno (classic baked turkey roulade filled with own meat, pistachio, apricots, plums, vegetables, and cooking jus). As for dessert, the Mantenendo La Tradizione (panettone bread pudding with maple orange zest ice cream) will be a great finisher to a good meal.
Price: RM318 nett (RM348 nett with a glass of prosecco)
Availability: 24 December 2019
Contact: 03 2263 7434
Website
4. The RuMa Hotel and Residences

The RuMa Christmas menu
Executive Chef Tyson Gee of Atas Modern Malaysia Eatery has curated a special five-course dinner menu to celebrate the most magical time of the year. The menu showcases classic Christmas dishes infused with the restaurant’s signature spin. Expect dishes such as warm foie gras with caramelised figs and bitter herbs; roasted lobster with calamari, clam, long coriander, and coconut broth; as well as roasted turkey with savoury bread pudding, brussel sprouts, and natural reduction. For the perfect ending to the meal, there is the decadent warm Christmas pudding and honey comb ice cream.
Price: RM288 nett (RM458 nett with wine pairing)
Availability: 24 & 25 December 2019 (7.30pm – 10.30pm)
Contact: 03 2778 0888
Website
5. The Westin Kuala Lumpur

The Westin Christmas dinner menu
Taking on the theme of Chocolate Imperial, the Chinese culinary team at the hotel’s Five Sen5es is all set to charm your palate and ignite your senses this Christmas. Highlights include chocolate sesame dumpling, Boston lobster with superior stock and egg noodle, Imperial steamed village chicken, and Cordycep flower with ginger. This is bound to be a special celebration with the five-course set dinner menu.
Price: RM160 nett
Availability: 24 December 2019 (6pm – 10pm)
Contact: 03 2773 8495
Website
6. Nobu Kuala Lumpur

Nobu Christmas dinner menu
Treat yourself and your loved ones to a special omakase menu this Christmas. Crafted by Executive Chef Philip Leong and his team, expect a series of enticing dishes such as Santenmori with a selection of seasonal premium ingredients such as botan ebi with truffle and oyster with chopped toro, braised Wagyu cheek, dashi poached lobster, and the Christmas Tree dessert (green tea mousse and tofu Bavarian).
Price: RM560++
Availability: 21 December 2019 – 25 December 2019
Contact: 03 2164 5084
Website
7. L’titude

Latitude Getting Christmas menu
Located in the Genting Club, the restaurant is offering a six-course dinner menu on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The Western menu consists of a scallop and bacon appetiser, Cioppino seafood stew, smoked duck, sous vide turkey, and a dessert of coffee espuma, vanilla ice cream, and sponge cake.
Price: RM288 nett per person
Availability: 24 December 2019 & 25 December 2019 (6pm – 2am)
Contact: 03 6101 1118
Website
8. The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur

Ritz-carlton christmas dinner menu
This Christmas Eve, join Chef Wai at the hotel’s The Library for a lavish dinner. The four-course Christmas meal comprises of festive seasonal creations crafted by the chef. Look forward to the expertly-prepared meats that Chef Wai is known for. Combined with the elegant yet relaxing ambience of the restaurant, this is bound to a day you won’t forget.
Price: RM300 per person, RM450 per person with wine pairing
Availability: 24 December 2019 (7pm – 11pm)
Contact: 018 621 4252
Website
9. Botanica+Co

Botanica+Co christmas menu
Throughout the entire month of December, the restaurant is offering a menu that exudes extreme festive spirit. The Festive Seasonal Menu includes dishes such as Split Pea Soup, Cured Salmon Carpaccio, Roasted Butternut Pumpkin, Roast Turkey, Christmas Roast Platter, and Gingerbread Pudding. As for drinks, you get to try the mulled wine if you haven’t.
Price: RM20 – RM198
Availability: 2 December 2019 – 31 December 2019
Contact: 03 2268 3818 (Alila Bangsar) & 016 965 6422 (Bangsar South)
Website
10. Christmas Supper Club with Chef Melba Nunis

Kristang Christmas with Chef Melba Nunis
This month, Chef Melba will be hosting the Kristang Family Christmas supper clubs. They will feature dishes that are usually only available during the festive season, such as Feng (innard curry), Mama Mercy’s Roast Chicken, Teem (Chestnut soup), and Stuffed Pickled Green Chillies. In addition to these, Chef Melba is also doing dishes for takeaway, including Smoked Bacon Bone Devil Curry, Beef Kari Seccu, and Chicken Macaroni Pie. Gather the troop, there is a requirement of eight to twelve diners for the supper clubs.
Availability: 7 December 2019 – 20 December 2019
Contact: 012 402 0500
Website
11. Park Avenue Lounge, SkyAvenue Genting

This Yuletide season, head over to the cosy, luxurious restaurant and enjoy a festive dinner celebration with your loved ones! Inspired by Western European cuisine and Christmas, two experienced chefs have specially prepared a seven-course meal, consisting of pastrami salmon with a topping of oscietre prestige caviar; poached pear salad; utterly delicious, creamy butternut squash soup; sweet and savoury black cherry roasted chicken; creamy truffle scalloped potatoes; haricot verts Lyonnaise; and panettone pudding for dessert to finish off with a sweet closing.
Price (s):
RM269 nett, paired with a bottle of Hermanos Lurton
RM499 nett, paired with a bottle of Drappier Carte D’or Champagne.
Availability: 24 December 2019 – 25 December 2019 (10am – 11pm)
Website
12. The Chow Kit

The Chow Kit Christmas menu
The recently-launched hotel is celebrating their first ever festive season! Their Christmas Day Brunch three-course menu includes traditional Christmas classics alongside Malaysian-fusion dishes. Start with Seafood Cocktail (scallop carpaccio, marinated tuna tartare, caviar and garlic chive butter, crispy fish skin with soy vinaigrette), Hainanese Chicken Rice soup, and a selection of appetisers such as foie gras and duck breast loh bak as well as smoked salmon and prawn otak-otak. As for mains, you have a choice between Tandoori Butter Roast Chicken, Roast Beef “Wellington”, or Traditional Fish Pie. End the meal with Christmas Pudding served with ice cream and eggnog sauce.
Price: RM120++ per person, RM250++ with wine pairing
Availability: 25 December 2019
Contact: 03 2778 6666
Website
13. Marini’s on 57

On Christmas Eve, head over to the 57th floor of Menara 3 Petronas for a festive meal at the Italian restaurant. The dinner menu consists of Poached Maine Lobster Tail with black truffles and caviar, Tagliolini with King Crab, Turkey Confit with Roasted Sweet Potato Foam, Pan-Seared Sea Bream with Porcini Mushroom Purée, and Roasted Lamb Loin with Pistachio crust. Desserts are Orange Sorbet, Nocciola Mascarpone (Hazelnut Crémeux with Almond Rocher) and Panettone E Pandoro (Classic Italian Panettone with Mascarpone Cheese Sauce).
Price: RM580++, RM680++ for window table
Availability: 24 December 2019
Contact: 03 2386 6030
Website
For more Christmas/Festive content, visit our Buro Christmas Village.

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Collections
Watch the Valentino Haute Couture AW20 livestream here

21.07.2020
By Joan Kong

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Haute Couture Week AW23: The best moments from Valentino, Balenciaga and more

Following the unveiling of the inspiration behind its live performance during Paris Haute Couture Week on July 8, Valentino will be unveiling the exclusive live performance that will take place in Rome tonight at the Cinecittà Studios.
For those of you who do not know what to expect, the Maison teased that it’ll “bring together the human and the digital touch [by] creating a dialogue where neither of them will take the lead”. But one thing we know for sure, is that the couture spirit—and creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli’s creativity and imagination—will be awe-inspiring.
Set your alarm! Watch the live performance at 10pm tonight:

For more Paris Haute Couture AW20 coverage, click here.

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Makeup
The dos and don’ts of lash extensions, according to a lash artist
All your FAQs, answered

24.05.2023
By Redzhanna Jazmin

Image: Moonsisters Lash

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Thinking of getting lash extensions for the first time? We spoke to a lash expert to answer all of your burning FAQs.
A set of long, luscious lashes is the ultimate beauty accessory. Unfortunately, not all of us have been blessed with a naturally full, fluttery set. That said, for those who want the look, we bear good news—in our modern day and age, you can now buy yourself a set of voluminous peepers, either in the form of lash strips or, if you’re looking for a slightly more permanent solution, eyelash extensions.
Now, we’ve already curated a guide to falsies, but we’re yet to delve into the world of lash extensions. From what to look out for in a studio to what you have to know before your first appointment, we’ve covered it all ahead with Calleigh Yap, the co-founder of Moonsisters Lash Studio.

Get to know our expert:
Moonsisters Lash Studio is a female-owned business founded by two best friends. Calleigh is the co-founder, graphic designer and social media manager at Moonsisters Lash Studio. Ellyn Yeo, the founder, has years of experience as a makeup artist and has dabbled in fashion and design. The studio opened in September of 2022, and has quickly garnered a loyal clientele, which can be attributed to its high-quality and professional services, as well as its top-notch customer care.

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What should you know before getting lash extensions for the first time?
“It’s important to do thorough research on eyelash extensions if you’re thinking of getting your lashes done for the very first time! Read up on the process of it, how it works, the aftercare and more. Lash extensions require special tools, products and specialised training to ensure safe and good-quality results. Therefore, it’s important to check out the lash artist’s business page for their past works and customer reviews to see if they are compatible with your needs. Once you’ve decided on which lash artist to go for, consider asking them questions if you have any to clear any doubts!”

What are some red flags to look out for in lash studios?
“Customer service is very important! Lash studios should always make customers feel comfortable since you will be spending a good few hours with your lash artist in the studio. If you experience rudeness, lack of professionalism and just overall bad vibes from a studio, it’s best to stay away. Another important note is to make sure that the artist isn’t charging too little. Promotions are great but extremely low prices could also mean low-quality services and using cheap or harmful products, which could be damaging or even dangerous to your natural eyelashes and eyes.”

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How can you keep your lash extensions in good condition for longer?
“We stand by keeping your lash extensions clean at all times. Clean lashes result in good retention! Makeup residue, dust, sweat and oil from eyelids will cause the glue to break down faster, which means the lash extension will fall off quicker. So, make sure to wash your lashes often with lash foam to keep them fresh and clean! Normal face wash may be too harsh for the glue, so it is highly recommended to invest in a lash foam. It is also recommended to brush your lash extensions daily twice, especially after showering to maintain the shape and fluffiness of the lash extensions. Also, avoid using heavy eye creams around the eye area so that they will not seep into the glue and cause it to break down faster than it should.”

Can you wear makeup with lash extensions?
“Minimal eye makeup such as eyeliner and some eyeshadow is fine. But, it is a big no-no to apply mascara and any waterproof eye makeup on the lash extensions. It will be an absolute nightmare to remove the mascara and waterproof makeup and your lash extensions will definitely come off quicker. Always use an oil-free makeup remover like micellar water.”

Why would you recommend getting lash extensions over falsies?
“Lash extensions are attached individually on each strand of natural eyelash and they are never glued to your eyelids. They can last for about six to eight weeks with good application technique from the lash artist and proper aftercare from the customer. Since everyone has different eye shapes, lash extensions can be customised in terms of length, thickness, curl and style. Besides, you get to wake up looking amazing every morning! Falsies, on the other hand, are more temporary, less customisable and generally just way more work. Remember how falsies used to dangle at the front of your eyes while you were on the dance floor? Yikes!”

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When should you not get lash extensions done?
“We strongly discourage customers that have recently undergone any sort of eye surgery—such as Lasik, double eyelid surgery, eyeliner tattoo and more—to get their lashes done. We don’t want to risk any infections or discomfort during or after the service. It’s safer to book an appointment six months after your eye procedure (with no recurring infections). Pregnant mothers (six months and above) are also not advised to get their lashes done too because some may be sensitive to the ingredients in the glue (cyanoacrylate), and the long hours of laying on the bed may cause back pain. Generally, people with especially sensitive eyes and skin should consider getting a patch test at the lash studio before getting their lashes done.”

What kind of lash extensions are there?
“There are so many types of lash extensions out there. In general, there are three categories such as classic, hybrid and volume. The most natural-looking lash out there is the classic lash, which means attaching one singular extension to every single strand of your natural lashes. Volume lashes are just like their name—big voluminous lashes! Hybrid is, of course, a mix of classic and volume lashes.
“At Moonsisters Lash Studio, we mainly focus on providing soft, lightweight and natural-looking lash extensions as we feel like this style suits Asian eyes better. One of our signature styles is called ‘Better Than Mascara’, which is a wet-look style of lash. Wet-look lashes are created using a few strands of really light lashes to create a narrow closed fan, which gives the illusion of wet eyelashes. It looks really natural with just a tiny bit of volume!

How often should one get fills?
“It’s recommended to keep your lash extensions looking pretty and full by getting infills every two to three weeks, depending on your lash condition. If, for some reason, your lash extensions shed faster than usual, your lashes may be in shedding season—meaning that your adult lashes are ready to regrow (just like our hair). In this case, it is recommended to re-do a new set or take a lash break and use an eyelash serum to help your lashes grow in healthier and stronger!”

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What should one avoid with lash extensions?
“Always resist the urge to pluck or remove your lash extensions. This can damage your natural lashes! Try not to touch your lash extensions too much because the germs and oil from your fingers may cause your extensions to fall off faster—or worse, it can lead to an eye infection! Try to schedule a lash removal service at your lash studio to get them professionally removed instead.
“A tip from us: If you must remove your lash extensions at home, use an oil-based make-up remover (cleansing balm works too) as if you are removing eye makeup, this can help loosen the glue on the extensions. However, please be gentle and try not to get the makeup remover into your eyes!”

How do you shower with lash extensions?
“The traditional eyelash extensions method will tell you not to get your lashes wet for a day or a week! This is actually not recommended in our studio. You should always prioritise hygiene, especially around your delicate eye area. Just shower as you normally would and invest in a lash foam to wash your eyelids and extensions! We use a lash bonder at the end of the service to solidify the glue which makes it safe to get wet on the day itself. Speak to your lash artist or studio to check the proper procedure as different lash artists and studios have their own methods.”

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Moonsisters Lash Studio is located at Sentul Point, KL. They are appointment-based only—strictly no walk-ins or last-minute bookings. For their portfolio, pricing and booking info, follow them on Instagram. Find more beauty stories like this here.

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Technology
I swapped my work laptop for the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra for a week and here’s what I loved

13.04.2022
By Sarah Hani Jamil

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Film, TV + Theatre
Singapore International Festival of Arts: Malaysian artists you can watch online via SIFA on Demand this June

01.06.2021
By Eugene Chen

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The pandemic has forced almost everything to go virtual, in an effort to encourage everyone to stay at home and to accommodate travel restrictions. The arts industry is no stranger to this phenomenon, with many exhibitions and festivals going virtual so that enthusiasts can still participate from wherever they are. From 5th to 20th June, the Singapore International Festival of Arts 2021 (SIFA 2021) will be going virtual after hosting in-person events throughout Singapore from 14 to 30 May.
SIFA featuring a whole week of live performances, special ensembles, and theatrical treats.
SIFA on Demand is a ticketed virtual arts festival featuring a list of curated programmes—from theatrical productions to dance and musical performances, to films—presented in the form of videos. Those who are interested can tune into Sistic Live at any time during the online festival period to catch performances from Singapore’s leading production houses such as Toy Factory Productions, Singapore Dance Theatre (SDT),  Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO), Singapore’s Nine Years Theatre (NYT), and New York’s SITI Company.
SIFA on Demand will also feature two Malaysian artists, Sukania Venugopal and Tan Guo Lian Sutton, who are both involved in the same theatrical event called The Year of No Return. A hybrid production that incorporates both video and live performances, The Year of No Return focuses on climate change and the different perspectives of it. The play hopes to “reach the hearts, and to provoke people to use their imagination to engage with the issue”.
Get to know the Malaysian artists who are featured in this production:
Sukania Venugopal

Sukania Venugopal, who is based in Malaysia, has been involved with theatre, TV and movie projects in Malaysia and Singapore including Talentime with the late Yasmin Ahmad. She performed in and co-directed various dance dramas with The Temple of Fine Arts, worked in children’s theatre and musicals, and is a pioneer performer with The Instant Cafe Theatre. In 2019, Sukania took part in the Australian theatre production Counting and Cracking at the Sydney and Adelaide Arts Festivals. She has received awards for Best Supporting Actress for Ghost Writer by The Necessary Stage at The Straits Times Life Theatre Awards, and Best Supporting Role for Language Archive at the BOH-Cameronian Awards.
Tan Guo Lian Sutton

Tan Guo Lian Sutton, who is currently based in Singapore, is a graduate of the BA (Hons) Acting program at LaSalle College of the Arts. He is a core member of the theatre collective Dark Matter Theatrics and an associate artist of Pink Gajah. Lian completed his Masters in Arts Pedagogy and Practice researching the pre-performance rituals of professional actors in Singapore. As a trained martial artist from an early age, Lian strives to merge his diverse talents to tell stories in varied and engaging ways. Notable theatre mentions include Temple and Electra (in which he received the Best Supporting Actor award at the 2017 Life! Theatre Awards) directed by Natalie Hennedige, 2 Houses by Lim Yu Beng, and Those Who Can’t, Teach directed by Alvin Tan.
Watch the trailer for The Year of No Return:

Check out SIFA on Demand this 5 to 20 June by getting tickets here. Tickets for individual titles go for S$15 while the all-access bundle,  which includes all content, costs S$60.
For more stories on arts and culture, click here.

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Food + Drink
CNY 2022: The best festive menus for your reunions this Year of the Tiger

24.01.2022
By Natalie Khoo

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The Year of the Tiger is crouching around the corner, and you’re probably already getting calls or messages from friends and relatives far and wide for reunions. Fret not, we’ve already curated what to wear (even on your nails) and gifts to bear for your get-togethers. But we haven’t forgotten (arguably) the most important part of Chinese New Year: reunion meals.
Without further ado, here’s a list of festive menus and promotions in the Klang Valley to welcome a roaring year ahead with a bountiful meal.
1. Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

There are two set menus to choose from Thirty8’s festive offerings, each carefully prepared with wholesome and symbolic dishes to cater for four persons. The Eight-Treasure Chicken (available in both set menus as well as a la carte orders) comes as a welcome alternative to poon choy, featuring a slow-cooked stuffed chicken that’s remarkably tender and packed with flavour, accompanied with tiger prawns, black moss, mushroom, lotus seeds, and broccoli.
CNY Set Menus and A la carte menus at Thirty8Availability: 17 January to 15 February 2022 (pre-orders required 24 hours before collection)Price: From RM988.80+ for four persons

Slow-cooked Stuffed Eight Treasure ChickenAvailability: 17 January to 15 February 2022 (pre-orders required 24 hours before collection)Price: RM488 for four persons | RM688 for eight persons
For reservations and enquiries, call +603 2203 9188 or email thirty8.kuag[email protected]. Shop more a la carte dishes on the online store at store.grandhyattkualalumpur.com.
2. W Kuala Lumpur

Take your pick from four unique set menus at W Kuala Lumpur’s Yen restaurant: Great Prosperity, Rich Fortune, Happy Reunion, and Wealth Treasures. Each set features a signature yee sang dish along with a selection of Chinese New Year specialty dishes, which are also available for a la carte orders.
Lunar New Year Set MenusAvailability: 2 January to 15 February 2022Time: Lunch – 12pm to 2.30pm | Dinner – 5pm to 7pm (first seating) / 8pm to 10pm (second seating)Price: From RM208+ per person

For a different kind of CNY reunion, why not gather for an afternoon tea at Woo Bar or indulge in dim sum over brunch at Yen?
Prosperi-tea Afternoon TeaAvailability: 12pm – 2.30pmPrice: RM128+ per person for dine-in | RM168+ per set for delivery
Lunar New Year Dim Sum BrunchAvailability: 2 January to 15 February 2022 | Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays onlyTime: 11am – 12.30pm | 1pm – 2.30pmPrice: RM168+ per adult | RM86+ per child | Additional RM120+ for free flow of red or white wine | Additional RM50+ for free flow of soft drinks and chilled juices
For reservations and enquiries, call +6012 347 9088 or email [email protected].
3. Hilton Kuala Lumpur

Whether you’re looking for a hearty 8-course meal or a traditional poon choy dish, Hilton KL’s Chynna has prepared an ensemble of oriental offerings for the season. The former includes four themed set menus—Wealth, Prosperity, Auspicious, and Abundance—which are available for dine-in only. The latter is served hotpot-style in a claypot and is available or dine-in and takeaway. A la carte dishes are also on the menu for dine-in and takeaway, priced per portion.
Fortune Favours the BoldAvailability: 2 January to 14 February 2022Price: From RM1,250 nett per table for five persons | RM888 per person for two persons

Chinese New Year Supreme Hotpot-Style Poon Choy in ClaypotAvailability: 2 January to 14 February 2022Price: RM208 nett per person | Additional RM60 nett for takeaway (claypot included)Minimum order of 6 persons | Pre-order 2 hours in advance
For more information, call +603 2264 2264, email [email protected] or visit www.eatdrinkhilton.com.
4. Four Points Sheraton Kuala Lumpur Chinatown

Quan Kitchen’s Chef De Cuisine Lim Jun Pin and his culinary team have prepared an 8 course ‘Spring Happiness’ set menu comprising nourishing dishes such as the Prosperity Golden Yee Sang, Double Boiled Wild Mushroom Soup, and Baked Ocean Seabass with Cordyceps in Honey Soy Glaze.
Spring Happiness Set Menu by Quan’s KitchenAvailability: 10 January to 10 February (two days advance booking is required)Price: RM688+ per set for four persons | Additional RM188+ per person

Meanwhile, Lady Yi’s Tea House has curated a special CNY Afternoon Tea with savoury delights such as Roasted Duck, Tea Egg, Beef Shank, and BBQ Chicken, accompanied by Lady Yi’s Signature 11 Treasure Tea. You can even find an exclusive CNY cocktail at Jann—an earthy Bird’s Nest Baijiu and Whisky cocktail brewed with chrysanthemum tea, red dates, and white fungus.
CNY Afternoon Tea by Lady Yi’s Tea HouseAvailability: 10 January to 10 February 2022Price: RM98+ per set for dine-in | RM128+ per set for takeaway and delivery
Jann CNY cocktailAvailability: 10 January to 10 February 2022Price: RM118+ for two bottles
For enquiries or reservations, call +603 2035 7333 or WhatsApp +6012 507 3327 or email [email protected].
5. The St Regis Kuala Lumpur

The St Regis Kuala Lumpur welcomes groups as small as four people for reunions at The Astor Bar, the Grand Ballroom, or its private dining rooms throughout its promotional period for Chinese New Year. Chef De Cuisine Cheong Boon Fei has prepared four different 8-course menus for the occasion, each featuring the owning family’s traditional recipes such as Braised Bird’s Nest Soup with Chicken, Braised Sea Cucumber, and Garlic Sea Tiger Prawn with Dried Shrimp Radish Cake.
Chinese New Year Set MenusAvailability: 5 January – 15 February 2022Price: From RM368+ per person

There’s also an exclusive Chinese New Year Tea set available for takeaway and dine-in at The Drawing Room, featuring seasonal savouries and desserts.
Chinese New Year Afternoon Tea
Availability: Takeaway – 10am to 9pm | Dine-in – 2pm to 4pm, 4.30pm to 6.30pm
Price: Takeaway: RM168+ per set | Dine-in: RM158+ per person or RM248+ per person with a glass of Delamotte champagne
For dining reservations, call +6012 280 1303 or email [email protected].
6. Sheraton Petaling Jaya

Let your palate take you (and your company) to Shanghai with Sheraton Petaling Jaya’s first ever collaboration with China’s craft gin, Peddler’s Gin. To celebrate the collaboration, Yue has curated set menus that pair well with the Chinese botanicals used in the gin—perfect for your “yum sengs”.
Yue Sensational Shanghai Eight-Course Set MenuAvailability: 17 January to 20 February 2022Price: RM268 nett per person | Add-on Peddler’s Gin cocktails for RM38 / RM43 nett per glass
Yue Chinese New Year Nine-Course Set MenuAvailability: 17 January to 20 February 2022Price: Hallmark of Achievement menu – RM2388 per table of eight persons | Prosperity Set Menu – RM1888 per table of eight persons

Over at Feast, Chinese New Year-themed buffets with festive favourites such as Dried Oysters and Deep Fried Nian Gao await to fill big appetites with joy and indulgence.
Feast Chinese New Year Themed BuffetAvailability: 17 January to 15 February 2022Price: Lunch – RM118 nett per person | Dinner – RM128 nett per person
To know more, call +603 7622 8888, WhatsApp +6017 228 6098 or email [email protected]. Visit www.sheratonpjstore.com to order takeaways and deliveries.
7. The Majestic Kuala Lumpur

Colonial Sampler set
Contango is cooking up a majestic Lunar New Year feast filled with nostalgic flavours and a yee sang platter served to your table for a reunion to remember. If you’d rather gather with your loved ones over a colonial-inspired meal, try the Colonial Sampler at Colonial Café, with highlights including a prawn cocktail, Hainanese chicken chop, baked honey-glazed cod, and a delectable dessert to finish.
Contango (Buffet)Availability: 15 January to 15 FebruaryPrice: Lunch – RM118 ++ per person | Dinner – RM148++ per person
Colonial Sampler set at Colonial CafeAvailability: 15 January to 15 FebruaryPrice: RM180++ per person
For reservations and enquiries, WhatsApp +6014 647 1060 or email [email protected].
8. EQ

EQ’s legendary Golden Phoenix restaurant is back again in time for the Lunar New Year celebrations. The special pop-up will be open for lunch and dinner exclusively during this festive period, offering set menus and a la carte dishes that showcase classic and beloved oriental creations by Chef John Chu. Course meals aside, there’s the traditional poon choy made with premium abalone, king prawns, sea cucumber, and other premium accoutrements.
A Feast For The SensesAvailability: 7 January to 15 February 2022Price: From RM238 per person

Premium Abalone Poon ChoyAvailability: 7 January to 15 February 2022Price: RM888 for six persons
For reservations and enquiries, contact +603 2789 7839 or email [email protected].
9. Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral

Usher a year of abundance with Nook’s Chinese New Year buffet, featuring highlights such as Beijing Roast Duck, a Yee Sang counter, Wok-fried Chilli Crab, and Baked Oriental Seabass.
Chinese New Year Buffet at Nook
Availability: Every Friday and Saturday from 14 January to 12 February 2022
Price: RM168 per person on New Year’s Eve | RM138 per person on all other dates

Alternatively, there are two Rocking Roast Takeaway Sets, namely the Rocking Roast Duck set and the Rocking Roast Chicken set—both of which come with three side dishes and can feed up to five people. In addition, there are a la carte items available for takeaway and delivery, such as Pei Pah Roast Chicken (RM88), War Shu Gai Almond Boneless Chicken (RM108), Cantonese Roast Duck (RM108), and Seafood Taro Pot (RM58).
Rocking Roast Takeaway setsAvailability: Throughout February 2022Price: Rocking Roast Duck set – RM218 | Rocking Roast Chicken set – RM198
For reservations and more information, please call +603 2723 1154 or visit www.aloftkualalumpursentral.com.
10. The RuMa

Steamed Grouper from The Auspicious 6-Course Journey at Atas
Experience familiar flavours in Chinese cuisine the Atas way through a 6-course degustation menu prepared by Executive Chef Tyson Gee, with standout dishes such as Lapsang Souchong Smoked Ocean Trout, Roasted Chicken Dashi with Chicken and Foie Gras Dumplings, and Roasted Duck and Duck Neck Sausage. For an afternoon tete-a-tete, there’s also the Chinese-inspired Afternoon Tea featuring savoury creations like Roasted Duck Crepe and Fried Mantou with Oyster, in addition to petit fours.
The Auspicious 6-Course Journey at AtasAvailability: 14 January to 6 February 2022Price: RM348+ per person

Chinese-Inspired Afternoon TeaAvailability: 28 January to 15 February 2022Price: RM158+ per person
For reservations and enquiries, please call +603 2778 0888 or email [email protected].
11. Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur

Welcome the new year with a roaring buffet feast at Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur’s Latest Recipe, boasting seasonal favourites such as Pei Pa Style Roasted Duck and Roasted Spring Chicken with Plum Sauce, on top of a wide variety of fresh seafood, dim sum, carvings, as well as Western, Japanese and local fare.
Chinese New Year Buffet DinnerAvailability: 21 January to 15 February 2022Price: RM188 nett for adults / RM94 nett for children (Mondays to Thursdays) | RM208 nett for adults / RM104 nett for children (Fridays to Sundays)
Chinese New Year’s Eve Buffet DinnerAvailability: 31 January 2022Price: RM238 nett for adults | RM119 nett for children
For reservations or more information, please call +603 2263 7888 or email [email protected].
12. Oversea Restaurant

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Lifestyle
11 Major events that made headlines in 2020 (that you may have forgotten)

30.12.2020
By Melissa Foong

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2020 has been an emotional roller coaster ride. This is not a year we’ll look back on fondly but we believe every cloud has a silver lining. Life as we know it has come to a grinding halt since the pandemic has left countries struggling to respond to the rapidly spreading virus, but in the midst of all that—we’ve made some major steps and astounding discoveries.
With the year drawing to an end, we’ve compiled a list of events that happened during 2020.
1. Australian Bushfire

Image: New York Times | Matthew Abbott
Australia faced a devastating start to its fire season in late 2019, and things swiftly got worse before the rain finally helped contain many of the worst fires in February 2020. As of March 9, 186,000 square kilometres was incinerated across all Australian states and territories.
2. Kobe and Gianna Bryant’s death

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They say legends never die but when the shocking news of Kobe Bryant’s unfortunate death was released on January 26, the whole world seemed to have reeled from the tragedy. The Los Angeles Lakers star, his 13-year-old daughter, six family friends and a pilot passed away in a helicopter crash near their home in California that morning.
3. Malaysia’s change of government

Image: Malay Mail
After the shocking resignation of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as Malaysia’s prime minister, our country welcomed a new premier—Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin was sworn in as the 8th prime minister on 1 March 2020.
4. ‘Parasite’ sweeps the Oscars

Image: Oscars
The South Korean film, Parasite took home a number of awards at the Oscars 2020, winning four Academy Awards such as Best Picture, Directing, International Feature Film and Writing (Original Screenplay). Not only that, the film made history by becoming the first non-English language film in Oscar history to win the award for Best Picture.
5. Malaysia’s first Movement Control Order

Image: Edge Prop
On March 16, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin took it to the news to make an official announcement regarding the movement control order that was implemented on March 18 to curb the spread of the Covid-19 infection in Malaysia.
6. #BLM movement

Image: Financial Times
While the Black Lives Matter movement was formed earlier in 2013, it only gained international traction after the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in May 25 this year. People all around the world took it to the streets to protest against incidents of police brutality and all racially motivated violence against black people, while advocating for non-violent civil disobedience.
7. Twitter’s massive hack/scam

Image: EHA News
On the afternoon of July 15, a host of verified Twitter accounts belonging to celebrities, politicians, and high-profile individuals including Jeff Bezos, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Bill Gates, Kanye West, Elon Musk, and more were hacked in a massive scam involving cryptocurrency—Bitcoin. Talk about a timely reminder that nothing and no one truly is safe in the digital sphere.
8. Chadwick Boseman’s death

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Chadwick Boseman, an actor well-known for his role as T’Challa in Black Panther, passed away on August 28 in his home after losing his battle with colon cancer. According to the actor’s family, he was diagnosed in 2016 with stage three colon cancer and it progressed to the final stage over the next four years.
9. Beirut explosion

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A large amount of ammonium nitrate stored at a port in the city of Beirut exploded on August 4, causing at least 204 deaths and 6,500 injuries. The explosion caused USD$15 billion in property damage and left an estimated 300,000 people homeless.
In response, the Lebanese gov

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Beauty
Somebody please stop Gwyneth Paltrow: Why you shouldn’t be taking any advice from the Goop woman

03.04.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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To be frank, I’ve been sitting on this op-ed for a while because I genuinely have no idea how to put this kindly—however, I’m going to try. Sort of. It’s time to talk about Gwyneth Paltrow.
How does one even begin to describe Gwyneth Paltrow? At face value, she’s a successful, business-savvy celebrity with a rich acting career behind her, a loyal cult following, and a passion for alternative medicine. However, if you dig a little deeper, you’ll actually find that the Academy-Award-Winner-turned-wellness-guru is probably better described as a pseudoscience peddler that profits off the people she exploits. One may even liken her to the human equivalent of a yeast infection—that is, in the sense that she crops up once in a while to wreak havoc on the metaphorical vagina of society, only to retreat temporarily (albeit noisily) in the face of scientifically-backed medicine.

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Just take her most recent appearance on American Vogue’s Beauty Secrets series. In the video, she proceeds to explain why her “clean and non-toxic” mineral sunscreen is better than other “really harsh” chemical sunscreens on the market (not true), all while applying the product incorrectly and—you guessed it—blatantly lying about cosmetics regulations in the process. Granted, she may genuinely believe that what she’s saying is true, but that doesn’t change the fact that she is spreading falsities as fact for profit.
FYI: Common sunscreen ingredients don’t give you cancer. Not wearing sunscreen properly, however, does. That’s not the only painfully ignorant thing Paltrow said in the video, either. If you’re interested, James Welsh has done a pretty bang-on recap:

READ: A guide to sunscreens for every skin type
Now, I understand that this may seem like a harsh overreaction, but at this point, the implications of Paltrow’s actions are bordering on genuinely dangerous. As demonstrated above, her misguided beauty, lifestyle, and wellness advice is notoriously ridden with misinformation, much to the exasperation of every respectable medical and healthcare professional in existence. Further, her lifestyle and beauty brand Goop—also known as the quick cash grab that monetises fearmongering tactics and serves as the vehicle by which Paltrow pushes her pseudoscientific rhetoric out to the general public—has been continually called out for its deceitful marketing tactics and its baffling, tone-deaf product lineup.

WARNING: Strong and vulgar language (but great video)
Exhibit A: The 2018 Goop jade egg lawsuit, also known as the time that Paltrow and her team claimed that a glorified rock could “balance hormones, regulate menstrual cycles, prevent uterine prolapse, and increase bladder control”. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t do any of these things. In fact, it has since been proven that putting a jade egg up your vagina actually has negative consequences such as pelvic floor tension and an increased risk of infection (Jade is a semi-porous material, making it the perfect place for Toxic Shock Syndrome-causing S. aureus bacteria to reside—even after cleaning). Yeah, needless to say, Paltrow’s pet project settled that lawsuit with a solid USD$145,000.
Exhibit B: That time she green-lighted the Goop blog post that claimed that bras were responsible for breast cancer… just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month (nice one, GP). The source? The questionable “Dr” Habib Sadeghi (AKA the guy that apparently coined the infamous term, “conscious uncoupling”), who cited the 1995 book Dressed to Kill: The Link Between Breast Cancer and Bras and a bunch of other wildly moronic arguments as his source (at one point in his post, Sadeghi postulates that the underwire of a bra could “magnify and sustain electromagnetic frequencies (EMF) and radiation from things like cell phones and Wi-Fi”. Yikes.) Naturally, numerous recent journal articles and countless other actually competent medical professionals have debunked the blog post. Brutally.
Exhibit C: The entirety of her Netflix series The Goop Lab. I don’t personally recommend it, but if you’d like to spend three and a half hours losing brain cells, be my guest.
But that’s not even where it ends! One of the major criticisms that Goop has garnered since its launch is its genuinely dangerous “medical advice”. Goop-ers are encouraged to forgo clinically-approved medical advice for holistic placebos that do more harm than good (read: Goop’s recommendation to “clean out your colon“, despite the practise having no reported health benefits and many adverse effects, including dehydration, infection, vomiting, and even bowel perforations).
It doesn’t take a lot of digging to unearth Paltrow’s expansive history of problematic behaviour, nor does it take long to uncover her many critics. That said, it’s one thing to be ignorant, yet open to learning and improving. If Paltrow took the countless corrections from concerned experts and actually learned from them, there would be no bad blood here. However, instead of reflecting on her actions and growing, she deflects blame and digs her heels in even deeper, just as she has done for the last two decades.
Basically, it was all fun and games when she was just a slightly eccentric movie star who named her daughter after a fruit and existed on an out-of-touch plane of privileged existence, inaccessible outside of interviews. However, post-Goop Paltrow has a highly popular platform that allows her terrible and irresponsible advice to spread farther and wider than ever before, and—at this point—it’s a threat. You see, as much as we’d like to believe that most people are wise to Goop’s ridiculousness and that her influence isn’t powerful, this is objectively not the case. In addition to being an extremely successful businesswoman, the actress is also charismatic, which means she can sell pretty much anything—including the infamous “This Smells Like My Vagina” candle that sold out multiple times (which, to her credit, was a good meme and a pretty nice smelling candle, apparently).
At the core of it, Paltrow has continually demonstrated a blatant disregard for the health and safety of others, as long as it means that she gets a paycheck out of it. To make matters worse, her insidious sales tactics are thinly veiled behind a facade of female empowerment that reeks of exploitation. Every overpriced “dopamine bean” or “brain boosting vibrator” she touts is inherently rooted in blatant lies and shrouded in fearmongering, and the impressionable women who buy into the overpriced hype are left with a product that doesn’t deliver on its claims at best and causes serious health implications at worst.
The real kicker? Even GP herself doesn’t believe in the products sold by her brand. Just take this 2019 Jimmy Kimmel interview for instance: When prompted about her more questionable products, Paltrow only has one thing to say, and it is “I don’t know”. That’s right—she hasn’t tried any of the stuff she’s selling, so why should you?

With all that in mind, knowing her track record, it’s unlikely that GP is going to stop her heinous antics anytime soon. This leaves us all with just one clear solution: To de-platform her and stop supporting her brand.
Find more opinion pieces here.

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Food + Drink
Food review: 5 Must-order dishes from Sushi Mastro, the new Nikkei restaurant in KL
Soy delicious

09.03.2022
By Natalie Khoo

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When talking about Japanese-Peruvian cuisine, also known as Nikkei cuisine, the internationally acclaimed Nobu Restaurant often comes top of mind. If you’re looking for an alternative that’s more casual and laid-back, however, may I suggest making a trip to the newly opened Sushi Mastro.
Tucked on the first floor of Fortune Centra in Kepong, the humble establishment (which first appeared in the March edition of #BUROEats) is founded by the team behind Seafood Maestro—an online grocery store for fresh, premium seafood. The idea of opening the restaurant was planted after owner Shafrizy Hazim noticed a surge in orders for Japanese ingredients and the growing demand for Japanese cuisine in the city.

Instead of opening another run-off-the-mill Japanese restaurant, Shafrizy decided to focus on Nikkei fare, which marries Japanese culinary traditions and flavours with traditional Peruvian ingredients. (Fun fact: The term Nikkei is also used to refer to Japanese immigrants living outside of Japan.)
Sushi Mastro particularly prides itself in serving sashimi prepared from locally raised siakap, red snapper and malabar fish from an ocean-caged farm in Penang. The fishes are handled Ikejime-style, which is considered to be a humane way of killing fish by paralysing it and draining its blood to preserve flavour and texture. They are then delivered to the restaurant in an ice box within one to two days from slaughter to ensure freshness.

Chef Salim Ismail helms the kitchen, boasting more than 30 years of culinary experience. He has developed a specialty in Japanese cuisine since picking up lessons from his Japanese godfather in Kyoto and has also previously experimented with Nikkei cuisine while cutting his teeth at restaurants and hotels around Europe.
The menu is reflective of his vast experience, offering an extensive selection of sashimi, nigiri and uramaki sushi from the sushi bā (sushi bar) to main dishes from the cocina (kitchen). Unlike many Japanese restaurants where dishes are served individually or in a set, Sushi Mastro practises a sharing concept that’s consistent with current F&B trends.
I, for one, appreciate the fact as it usually means I get to try more dishes. And I kid you not, I sampled over a dozen—specifically 17 (including platters), if my memory hasn’t failed me—on my first visit. Here are my top five recommendations, in no particular order:

Nikkei Salmon Mango

This was easily one of my favourite dishes from my visit. If the striking presentation of neatly overlapping red and yellow cuts doesn’t already whet your appetite, your first taste of the dish will. The smooth, delicate flavours of ocean fjord trout (note: not salmon, though commonly marketed as such) pair remarkably well with the natural sweetness of the fresh mango, balanced by the savoury punch of the ikura and shoyu zuke.

Hamachi Jalapeño Tiradito

Besides the Nikkei Salmon Mango, the Hamachi Jalapeño Tiradito is another plate that brings out the Peruvian side of Nikkei cuisine. Here, the Japanese yellowtail is bathed in a slightly tangy ponzu sauce and topped with jalapenos and red onions for a subtly spicy kick. When savoured altogether, it offers a burst of well-balanced flavours and textures on the palate.

Ikejime Surtidas

The prized Ikijime technique the restaurant champions shines in this trio of siakap, red snapper and malabar grouper. One can tell from the translucent flesh and semi-firm texture that they are premium sashimi-grade and the clean, luscious flavours I am rewarded with affirms this. The fact that they’re locally sourced (read: more sustainable than imported fish) is a definite bonus. There’s also the option to order these ikejime fishes separately, served with three slices per plate.

Seafood Shirashizushi

For a dish that pleases the eye as much as it satisfies the palate (although I must say that most of the suggestions on this list fit the bill), I’d suggest ordering from the Montana Chirashi section of the menu. Of the two options available, I had the seafood bowl, which presents a glorious mountain of treasures from the sea. The ingredient list is impressive and generous, comprising salmon, hamachi, hon maguro, barramundi, red snapper, malabar grouper, amaebi, unagi, ikura and tobiko—marinated and cooked over sushi rice. Simply delightful. Best enjoyed after mixing all the ingredients together on a plate.

Argentinian Ribeye & Norwegian Halibut

It’s tough to pick a favourite from the three mains I tried, so I’ll offer two suggestions for those who prefer seafood and meat, respectively. For the former, the Norwegian Halibut is an absolute treat—presenting large pan-seared fillets that are delightfully flaky, enhanced by an umami miso sauce and crispy condiments. On the other hand, the Argentian Angus Ribeye is a welcome option if you’d like a meat dish for a change. Grilled to medium rare doneness, the result is tender and flavourful, with fresh, grassy hints from the accompanying chimichurri sauce.

Other worthy mentions:

In case five dishes are too modest for those with big appetites, you can’t go wrong with the assortment of fresh Nigiri sushi and sashimi. Aside from that, the Torched Wagyu Tataki is another enjoyable meat dish offering juicy Miyazaki A5 wagyu cuts with momoji orishi and ponzu sauce; whereas the French Cod Fish presents a mild, delicate Patagonian toothfish steak in a pool of sweet and savoury teriyaki sauce.

As for drinks, Sushi Mastro offers a selection of crafted mocktails on top of the usual hot or cold green tea. I had the Romero Sandia—a refreshing blend of watermelon, rosemary, and apple cider. It comes topped with a cinnamon stick that’s lit by the waiter when served, infusing the drink with its sweet, spicy scent.

Overall, Sushi Mastro makes a solid entry in KL’s dining scene for Nikkei cuisine in an unfussy yet comfortable setting. Based on my maiden experience, it’s definitely worth a revisit.

Sushi Mastro
Address: Unit 1-1 Fortune Centra, No. 2, Jalan Metro Perdana 6, Taman Usahawan Kepong, 52100 Kepong, Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6012 312 4112
Opening hours: 12pm to 3pm (lunch), 6pm to 10pm (dinner) | Tuesdays to Sundays (closed on Mondays)
Facebook | Instagram
To make a reservation, click here. To make an order for pick-up and delivery from the a la carte menu, contact +6012 312 4112.

Read more food reviews here or discover other food and drink stories here.

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Beauty
Bulgari x the All Blacks New Zealand: Of Gods & Warriors
Dive into the scrum

20.09.2015
By Renyi Lim

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To say that New Zealand’s All Blacks Rugby Team are a formidable bunch is something of an understatement – as World Champions of the rugby pitch, they’re famed for their performance-driven achievements, charisma, and commitment to tradition, epitomised by their iconic pre-match Maori ‘hakka’ dance.
Bulgari – which, coincidentally, was also established in 1884, the same year that the All Blacks began their ascent to the world stage – has taken inspiration from these bold, ferocious modern warriors to create two unedited limited edition fragrances: Bulgari Man in Black and Bulgari Man Extreme All Blacks 2015 Editions (RM 409 each).

The All Blacks edition of Bulgari Man in Black captures the team’s strength and potency in its sensual and woody neo-Oriental tones, while the Mediterranean freshness of Bulgari Man Extreme All Blacks is charged with a forceful and unforgettable self-assuredness, very much like the gods of the stadium themselves. As a tribute to the heroism of sporting history’s mightiest men, the charcoal and silver flacons of both fragrances feature lacquered motifs drawn from the traditional ‘moko’ facial tattoo – the ultimate symbol of a Maori warrior’s manhood and bravery.
Available at Bulgari counters end September.

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Buro Loves
12 Days of Christmas manicures that will do the talking for you

21.12.2018
By Gwen Ong

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The festive spirit is in the air and we can’t be more excited about the good food and bonding session coming ahead in reminiscence of the year that has been. Ugly Christmas sweaters aside, there are more than one fun way to show off your personality in this joyful season. Commemorate the holiday by decking your nails along with your hall. We scour the ‘Gram in search of inspiration that you can share with your nail artist. Better book that appointment stat!

For those who like understated glamour
1) @farbweise

2) @danithenailqueen

3) @_klaudia_style_tyachiv

4) @seventh_heaven_rybnik

For those who love traditions
5) @nailsby.glo

6) @nailart_bygracie

7) @sensationails4u

8) @ashearer3

For those who enjoy the sweet stuff
9) @thehangedit

10) @kingaa.lukasiewicz

11) @nailcafebypyale

12) @nailthoughts

Image: @thehangedit, @nailepsze_kaja_krzynowek

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Style
4 Things to know about Pieter Mulier, Alaïa’s new creative director

07.02.2021
By Joan Kong

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Four years after fashion icon Azzedine Alaïa’s death, the chief executive of his eponymous label, Myriam Serrano, has announced the appointment of a new creative director: Belgian designer Pieter Mulier. His first collection will be showcased during Spring/Summer 2022 Fashion Week.
“Azzedine Alaïa’s powerful vision has served as an inspiration, as he always sought to give the necessary time to innovative and enduring creation,” Mulier said in the statement. “It is with this tremendous sense of admiration and responsibility that I will seek to carry forward his legacy of celebrating femininity and placing women at the heart of creation. I look forward to meeting the valued Alaïa clients and friends, as well as the Alaïa Foundation, and to jointly shaping the future of this legendary Maison.”
While his name may be unfamiliar to many, you have definitely come across with his work, as the designer was previously the right-hand man of Raf Simons. Read on to get to know the new creative director better:
The designer was Raf Simons’s right-hand man

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Pieter Mulier started out as an intern at Raf Simons’s namesake brand in Belgium, before rising through the ranks to become the designer’s longstanding right-hand man. Mulier was there throughout Simons’s stint from Jil Sander to Christian Dior to Calvin Klein. At the latter brand’s debut show, the duo even took a joint bow at the end. However, when Simons joined Prada, Mulier did not follow.
His work speaks for himself
In a statement by the brand, CEO Serrano said: “Pieter stands out with remarkable technical talent and devotion to the craft, a sharp eye for construction and a sense of timeless beauty that is deeply ingrained in the creative approach of our Maison.”
Charming and sincere, with innovative technical skills to boot, his work ethic can be seen clearly in the 2014 documentary, Dior and I. In the film, Mulier’s role as the link between Simons and the atelier was showcased.

He’s well-loved among industry insiders

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A post shared by PIETER MULIER (@pieter_mulier)

Having been in the industry for almost 20 years, Mulier has developed connections with many fashion heavyweights. Valentino’s Pierpaolo Piccioli, Off-White’s Virgil Abloh, Dior and Fendi’s Kim Jones, and supermodel Naomi Campbell were the first few to congratulate the designer on Instagram.
His other half is also in fashion

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A post shared by PIETER MULIER (@pieter_mulier)

Mulier’s partner, Matthieu Blazy was also on a similar journey. Having started out at Raf Simons as a senior designer, his resumé includes a four-year stint at Maison Margiela as its head designer, a two-year stint at Céline, and an almost three-year stint at Calvin Klein (he was part of Simons’s inner circle). In May last year, the French designer was appointed as the ready-to-wear design director at Bottega Veneta, assisting creative director Daniel Lee.

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Watches
All the exquisite jewellery you should add to your Christmas wishlist

02.12.2020
By Joan Kong

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There’s no denying that the festive season will be a different one this year, but with everything that’s happening in the world right now, there’s no better time to treat those who are near and dear to you (or yourself) to a present that can be cherished forever. Our gift guide for the important women and men in your life should give you some great ideas, but if you’re looking for more, our roundup of exquisite jewellery below will make a memorable gift. You know what they say: good things come in small packages! Don’t forget to leave hints at the piece you really want.
Check out our top picks below:
Piaget

Possession twisted open bangle, Piaget
The Possession collection celebrates its 30th anniversary this year; what better way to honour the legacy by gifting (or receiving) a piece that’s given a contemporary update? Case in point: The double-wrap bangle that beautifully adorns the wrist.
Van Cleef & Arpels

Vintage Alhambra pendant, Van Cleef & Arels
It’s impossible to mention Van Cleef & Arpels without thinking of the iconic Alhambra design. Just like every year, this holiday season, the brand has introduced a limited edition Vintage Alhambra pendant that’ll give the wearer that extra sprinkle of luck.
The 2020 version is adorned with luxe guilloché white gold, with a diamond set right at the centre. To make it extra special, each pendant can be personalised with an engraving on the back. What more could you ask for?
Bvlgari

Divas’ Dream earrings in 18-karat rose gold set with mother-of-pearl and diamonds, Bvlgari
The unconventional fan shape from the Divas’ Dream collection is unmistakably Bvlgari. The combination of the rose gold, mother-of-pearl details, and the sparkly diamond on this pair of earrings is simply irresistible.
ICYMI, this is also one of Seo Ye-Ji’s most worn designs in hit K-drama It’s Okay To Not Be Okay.
Tiffany & Co.

Hardwear link earrings, Tiffany & Co.
Tiffany T may be Tiffany & Co.’s most talked-about collection this year, but the Hardwear line will always have a special place in our hearts. Equal parts chic and edgy, the earrings are the perfect accessory for the modern-day woman.
Chopard

Ice Cube bracelet in white gold entirely set with diamonds, Chopard
With tennis bracelets being all the rage this year, it’s to no surprise that Chopard’s Ice Cube collection—the OG of them all—is on our list. Take your pick from the nine variations that are crafted from 100 per cent ethical gold. Our advice? Stack them up.
Chanel

Plume de Chanel ring in 18-karat white and yellow gold with diamonds, Chanel
All eyes have been on the Coco Crush jewellery as of late for its modern yet emblematic design, but there’s nothing like an exquisite design that puts a twinkle in your loved one’s eye. And the Plume de Chanel ring—in 18-karat white and yellow gold with diamonds—is it.
Louis Vuitton

Small Vivienne pendant necklace in yellow, pink, and white gold with black lacquer and diamonds, Louis Vuitton
Two years after Louis Vuitton introduced Vivienne as its official mascot, the doll has made its entry into the brand’s jewellery world in the form of pendant necklaces. Available in two sizes and an array of colour combos, they’ll make a cute addition to your accessories closet.
Dior

Rose des Vents ring in 18-karat white gold with diamonds, Dior
The Rose des Vents collection is Dior’s creative director of fine jewellery, Victoire de Castellane’s interpretation of Monsieur Dior’s lucky star in the form of a wind rose. They’ll make the perfect lucky charm.
Qeelin

Medium Yu Yi necklace in 18-karat rose gold with diamonds and jadeite, Qeelin
The jadeite necklace from Qeelin’s Yu Yi collection is perfect for lovers of all things classic. The name of the collection translates to “may all your wishes come true”, and after an eventful year, this symbolic piece will definitely be appreciated.
Diamond & Platinum

Avant Garde pendant in 18-karat rose gold with diamonds, Diamond & Platinum
When it comes to jewellery, versatility is also of importance, and the Diamond & Platinum Avant Garde collection is just that. The pendant from the collection can be worn three ways—as a necklace, a ring, or earrings.
For more holiday gift guides, click here.

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Watches
A link between modern and classic: Frederique Constant’s Swiss Horological Smartwatch
Get smart and connected

01.09.2015
By Buro247

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

 Geneva-based pioneer of luxury watches Frederique Constant joins forces with Fullpower to produce the first Swiss Horological Smartwatch. Powered by MMT’s MotionX technology platform, the timepiece delivers 24/7 MotionX activity tracking and sleep monitoring alongside the functional and aesthetic benefits of a classic Swiss luxury timepiece.
 Despite being a synthesis of high-tech innovation and traditional Swiss watch craftsmanship, the smartwatch replaces a digital screen with an exquisite dial and laser cut hands to display information in its elementary analog form. Whilst maintaining its natural classic beauty, the timepiece boasts a battery life of over two years, as well as bi-directional communication with apps on Apple and Android smartphones.

Through the use of simple and clear graphics, the iOS and Android apps provide a comprehensive summary of its user’s daily progress including sleep and activity patterns, making it easier to gain a better understanding of users’ physical well-being.
The Horological Smartwatch supports the following functions:

1. Always-on time & date
2. MotionX activity tracking
3. Sleeptracker sleep monitoring
4. Sleeping cycle alarms
5. Get-active alerts
6. Adaptive coaching
7. MotionX cloud back up and restore

For more information, visit the website.

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Fashion
MFW AW20: 30 Pairs of sunglasses to block out shade and keep the haters at bay

27.02.2020
By Stephanie Boey

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Couture wedding gowns that will make you feel like a fairytale princess

Trust the Italians to know how to make a fashion statement. Milan Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2020 saw a number of buzzworthy events, from Emporio Armani’s “empty” show to the creative director’s “controversial” comments (more on that here) and Prada’s big news about Raf Simons joining the team. Over to the street style scene, like-minded Milanos banded together for a round of enviable fashion gang OOTDs.

It was no surprise that the accompanying runway saw many head-turning looks. Moschino’s Marie Antoinette-themed show takes the cake with extravagant gowns inspired by the French monarch’s favourite dessert. We’d like a slice, please!
The eyewear took to our fancy, too. In particular, a wide and moustache-shaped pair that extended past the temples. Very useful for blocking out the sun, and unwanted sass and shade. No stranger to drama, Dolce & Gabbana (remember all that hoohaa that went down in 2018?) released one with dangling gold charms and (grandma glasses chain in tow). The sound alone would warn potential threats to steer clear. On a more wholesome and positive note, GCDS‘ iteration literally tells us to see the world through a floral lens. Yes, killing them with kindness is the best approach.
Swipe below for more statement making eyewear that would protect you from UV rays (and bad vibes):
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] MFW AW20 accessories” rid=”7943″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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Beauty
Bath o’clock: How to get your best skin (and beauty sleep) by tonight
Soak up a storm

16.08.2015
By Terry Saw

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Not travelling anywhere this week? Take the time to pamper yourself by indulging in a tub and letting your skin soak up some nourishing goodness while rejuvenating your senses. According to facialist and body care expert Vanda Serrador from The Body Shop, drawing a good bath is all about using the right mix of products. Here are all the tips you need to get started.
“Total relaxation is so important these days, and is one of my favorite reasons to take a bath. There is nothing better than a nice, warm bath and some aromatic candles. Here are also some key tubbing benefits you need to know:”
 A bath helps to open the pores
“This is a great opportunity to deeply nourish and hydrate your skin with oils and body creams, leaving the skin soft and protected.”

 It improves your blood flow
“Taking a bath enhances your blood circulation by increasing the rate of nourishing blood cells to damaged tissue. With increased blood flow, you will have better cell growth and organ function.”

 It is the secret to a good night’s sleep
“Taking a warm bath before going to bed temporarily raises your body temperature, after which, it gradually lowers in the cooler air, cueing your body to feel sleepy.”
“The ideal water temperature for a warm bath is around the 35 to 37 degrees, and a good length of time for a soak is between 15 to 20 minutes.”

 Building your bath wardrobe and setting the mood
“For starters, get all your bath products together: generally they should include exfoliates, bath salts, clay masks, oils according to your mood, plus a few tools, like a Thai wooden massager (a handy tool to help break down knots) or a body brush, a mask applicator and a large towel. Lighting is key to giving your bathroom a relaxing and soothing atmosphere. Chilled-out and relaxing music is a great way to building the spa-inspired experience at home. You can have a few essential oils or scented candles burning to enhance the aromatherapy enhance the experience.”
 Tip: Focusing on your breath helps your mind slow down and your body to relax. After bathing, place a few drops of the French Lavender massage oil in the palm of one hand and rub your hands together. Breathe deeply a few times to help further relax your senses.”

The key ingredients of a good, relaxing bath
“As a relaxing bath-prep, I like to mix the African Ximena Scrub with a bit of the Himalayan Charcoal Body Clay and massage in to the skin to remove all the dead cells and increase blood circulation. Then, I soak in a Milk and Honey bath for a perfect mind and body relaxation. I also like to add a few droops of body oils like the Lavender or Monoi oil into the water to maximise my next moisturising step.”
 Tip: A warm bath softens your skin and opens the pores to allow moisturisation. It’s a great idea to follow with a body oil like the French Lavender or Monoi oils, by massaging it into damp skin for better penetration and longer lasting results on the skin. Finish with the Japanese Camellia Cream to lock in moisture so your skin is velvety soft.”
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”bath o clock” rid=”3290″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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Beauty
In love: 30 shades of Urban Decay Vice liquid lipsticks
Or in lust?

20.03.2017
By Gwen Ong

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BURO Beauty Empties Giveaway Week 2: Win up to RM4,500 worth of beauty prizes

A girl can never have too many lipsticks, agree? Well then, how about 30 new lipsticks to add to your collection? Urban Decay gives us life with its new Vice liquid lipsticks in 30 beautiful shades. You will be spoilt with a range of colours from neutrals to bold brights as well as some limited-edition shades.

The lipsticks hold heavy loads of pearls and glitter, so what you get is a line-up that that comes in comfort matte or metallised finishes. The special technology in the formula lets the pearl float on top, hence the metallised shades take on the maximum amount of shimmer. Either way, you can channel your inner Ruby Rose confidently and comfortably.

What makes this collection standout is the high-tech formula which provides longer-lasting wear with zero transfer. Based on the original formula, the new Vice liquid lipstick gives off an intensely pigmented colour that will take you from day to night without the drying effect.

To get your Vice on, first line the lips and then apply one coat to fill and let dry if the opacity is to your desire. Avoid pressing lips together. If you need more coverage, apply a second layer. Now you’ve got the basics ready, take a pick below for your next Vice.

{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”urban decay vice lipstick” rid=”4953″ order=”a_tstamp”}

Urban Decay Vice liquid lipsticks will be made available at all Urban Decay freestanding stores beginning 8th April 2017 and Sephora stores beginning 13th April 2017. Priced at RM79.

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Travel
Buro’s City Guide to Marrakesh: Where to stay, eat, and go
The Red City

20.07.2017
By Rachel Au

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The city of Marrakesh is undeniably attractive. Celebrities love it. Tourists love it. SM Faliq Nasimuddin proposed to #BuroBossGirl Chryseis Tan  there. With its many red sandstone buildings, it earned the nickname ‘Red City’ while some have called it the ‘Jewel of the South’. Dripping in culture, gleaming in breathtaking architecture and intricate tiles, and sporting honeycomb-like narrow alleyways and a gazillion souqs, it’s a city worth getting lost in.

WHEN TO VISIT
Ideally, you’d want to avoid its summer when it’s sizzling hot—though it has yet to deter tourists. The best times to visit Marrakesh is during its spring and autumn season to enjoy sunshine at comfortable temperatures. Generally, that means anytime from March to May or September to November (though November is also the wettest month so bring an umbrella).

WHERE TO STAY
Between resorts and boutique riads, options are aplenty and each one more beautiful than the next. For the ultimate luxury, the Royal Mansour is the dream. The monumental entrance alone is enough to speak for the whole property and clearly shows the owners’ respect for architecture and its innate sense of beauty. The experience is further enhanced by the series of underground tunnels to each of the 53 riads on site, guaranteeing every guest’s privacy.

Mandarin Oriental Marrakesh is another great Moroccan escape. The five-star luxury resort is only minutes from the city centre and is surrounded by fragrant gardens and olive groves. Choose the Atlas Suite for stunning views of the mountains. To top it off, most of the suites feature a private plunge pool.

For the boutique accommodation experience, there’s no place cosier (or more colourful) than Riad Be Marrakech. Its rooms are each beautifully decorated and decked in vibrant walls, tiles and mosaics.

WHERE TO EAT

The landmark for traditional and gastronomic Moroccan cuisine with the most enchanting ambiance is none other than Dar Yacout—evidently so from Chryseis Tan’s Instagram post. It was among the first restaurants created by Mohamed Zkhiri, a prominent citizen of the city.

A post shared by ♕ Chryseis Tan ♕ 陈雪铃 (@chrystan_x) on Jul 3, 2017 at 7:34am PDT

One of the most popular places in Marrakesh that often gets name-dropped is Jamaa El-Fnaa, the city’s main square. It’s world famous and it is here where you can find stalls selling rugs, slippers and the like. When you’re done shopping, head to one of the nearby rooftop cafes or restaurants for a break accompanied by a sweeping view of the square from above. Come nightfall, it turns into a carnival and a great place to sample some of the best local street food.

Nomad is another highly recommended restaurant. The menu here is modern Moroccan with a focus on vegetables and some delectable meat dishes. Just make sure to save room for their date cake. We hear it’s phenomenal.

WHERE TO GO
Koutoubia Mosque and its 77-metre-high minaret is one of the most popular landmarks in Marrakesh, and one that is easily spotted in the vast cityscape. The inside of the 12th century icon is closed to non-Muslims but it’s still worth a visit to see its band of turquoise tiles and Moorish arches up-close.

On a lovely day, take a stroll through the private gardens of Jardin Majorelle, which was once owned by Yves Saint Laurent—including the electric-blue villa in its vicinity. If you’re not one to appreciate plant-viewing, stop by its Musee Berbere, an art deco studio housing a rich panorama of some 600 Moroccan artefacts and by far one of the country’s most beautifully curated museums. There’s a boutique at its exit that sells souvenirs such as coffee table books and pillows embroidered with YSL. Fans of the designer will be glad to know that a standalone Yves Saint Laurent museum is due to open within the gardens in late 2017.

Don’t leave Marrakesh without visiting Ben Youssef Madrasa, one of the city’s many Koranic schools and one of the most breathtaking architectural sites. Featuring gigantic cedar wood doors, Italian marble, colourful friezes, bronze fountains and a glazed-tiled reflecting pool, it’ll be hard to tear your eyes away. Then there’s Bahia Palace, another architectural wonder with elaborate gardens and interestingly, it was once home to a harem.

If you have time to spare, visit the Maison de la Photographie, a riad museum which hosts rotating exhibitions of more than 6,000 original photographs of Morocco from 1870 to 1950. The cherry on top is taking a break at its roof cafe with a cup of mint tea and enjoying the amazing views of the Atlas Mountains.

WHERE TO SHOP
There are souq stalls everywhere in the main streets of Marrakesh and their array of goods easily add to the flashes of colour in this city. So where do you start? The popular ones are Souq Semmarine and Souq el-Kebir. For better deals, look for smaller souqs such as Souq Cherifia and Souq Haddadine.

Your other option is to visit lifestyle boutiques. The following have pretty decent Moroccan kitchen wares and the like: Chabi Chic, 33 Rue Majorelle (designer goods for home and wardrobe), and El Fenn (products by local artisans).

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Watches
9 Party-ready watches for your next night out
Starting with #BuroTurnsTwo

18.07.2017
By Joan Kong

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

Watches may not be our top pick when it comes to accessorising (especially for a party), but what better way to top off your killer outfits than with show-stopping timepieces adorning your wrists? Jazz up your arm party and celebrate any occasion in style with these nine picks; opt for one that screams ‘you’.
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Culture
Pop culture catch-up: Lady Gaga’s long-awaited album Chromatica is here, Justice League Snyder Cut to be released and more

01.06.2020
By Marissa Chin

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Hello pop culture vultures! Here’s another round-up of the latest news in the entertainment circle you might have missed:
Lady Gaga’s Chromatica is full of the sweet summer bops we needed
Lady Gaga is one of the most iconic and pioneering artists in the industry—constantly pushing boundaries and performative art, her music and brand have represented and given solace to the marginalised, outcasts and misunderstood in society since her iconic debut hit “Just Dance” in 2008.
It is clear since then that Lady Gaga has experimented musically—from her bold maximalist electro-dance hits to stripped-down acoustic-driven riffs, she showed that could do more than just disco pop. But Chromatica is a triumphant return to the heart-thrumming electro-dance aesthetic that propelled her into international stardom with a newfound flair.
Chromatica is a 16-stop joyous ride on the grooviest rollercoaster ride of your life. Little Monsters and new listeners alike can appreciate the catchy dance-house grooves and synth sleuths riddled throughout that are perfect for getting you out of your funk or setting up the perfect dance floor for your digital sleepover with friends.

Netflix’s latest adaptation gives us Murder on the Snowpiercer Express vibes
Have you checked out Netflix’s latest action-thriller? The series is based on the French graphic novel by Jacques Lob and Jean-Marc Rochette published in 1982 titled Le Transperceneige and popularized by Bong Joon Ho’s 2013 film Snowpiercer.

The series premiered its first episode earlier on Monday (May 25) and could not have come at a better time off of Bong-fever from his huge win at the Oscars for his film Parasite. Snowpiercer is set in a post-apocalyptic era in which Earth has been plunged into an eternal ice age and the only last survivors are on board a moving train called the Snowpiercer. Across the 1001 carriages, the upper class bourgeoisie occupy the head of the train while the lower working class are put in the tail end, with very drastic living conditions. If you’re looking for something that weaves political intrigue, racial and class warfare with an exhilarating murder mystery, look no further.
Twice leaves us wanting More and More in latest teaser
South Korea’s favourite girl group is gearing up for a comeback that will be dropping on July 1. This will be a very special comeback for ONCE (Twice’s fandom) as Mina, who has been on hiatus due to social anxiety issues, will be returning to join the group this time, bringing the group’s head count back to nine members.

The teaser shows the opening of the song where the members are dressed in colourful bohemian-chic outfits that look like they could come out of a Pocahontas movie. The members also don vibrant wild manes as they gracefully move in a glittery pool as a tropical house beat thrums. Which is your favourite look?
Scott Disick and Sofia Richie call it quits after three years

News of their split came on May 27—but according to the latest updates on US Weekly, there is a high chance the couple might be getting back together as they have been “texting non-stop” since the break-up.
The Keeping Up With the Kardashians star, 37, and Richie, 21 started dating back in 2017. Their split came just weeks after it was reported Disick entered a treatment center in Colorado to deal with “past traumas” such as the death of his parents. After their split made headlines, Richie was quick to respond in an interview with Cosmopolitan UK that Disick’s long-time beau and mother to his three children, Kourtney Kardashian did not play a role in their split nor did their 16-year age gap. Rather, “Scott and Sofia are on a break until Scott straightens himself out more,” a source told US Weekly. “Scott is in an OK place right now and is trying to get better and focus on work, but he has to prove himself.”
DC fans rejoice at news that the Justice League Snyder Cut is finally being released
DC fans would no doubt be very familiar of #ReleasetheSnyderCut as they have amassed huge efforts to convince Warner Bros execs—we’re talking paid billboard signs in Time Square, mass letter-writing drives, raising over $150 000 for suicide prevention and the like.
It looks like all the blood, sweat and tears have finally paid off because after more than two years of enthusiastic campaigning by fans, Warner Bros announced that the Synder cut of Justice League will be released as an HBO Max exclusive in 2021.

According to the press release released on the platform, it could be anything from a four-hour long director’s cut to a six-part mini series, and will cost up to $30 million to complete. Actors such as Gal Gadot, Henry Cavill and Ezra Miller would also have to return for additional shoots and principal photography. “I want to thank HBO Max and Warner Brothers for this brave gesture of supporting artists and allowing their true visions to be realised. Also a special thank you to all of those involved in the SnyderCut movement for making this a reality,” said Zack Snyder.
The new cut will also introduce Darkseid as the overarching villain of the franchise and a much more developed backstory for all the characters, particularly Cyborg and his life pre-transformation.
The second Tenet trailer is out and we’re all still confused
Christopher Nolan truly has a knack for making us scratch our heads in confusion and go down Reddit rabbit holes to figure out what his movie is about. You’ve probably had to watch his previous movies at least three times to understand what was going on a la his mind-bending Inception and the sublime galactical adventure Interstellar. Now, Nolan’s highly-anticipated new film will explore time—specifically, time inversion (whatever that means).

The second trailer confirms that Tenet will not be a movie about time travel (as the first trailer was thought to suggest) as time inversion is mentioned specifically by Clémence Poésy’s character and will be used to prevent an impending World War 3. The trailer also features intense stunts as Robert Pattinson and Josh David Washington scale a building and car crashes (Nolan is famous for not using CGI effects). The movie is slated to be released July 17 and will be a guaranteed mind-blowing experience.
Elon Musk and Grimes change their son’s name from X Æ A-12 to …
When Tesla co-founder Elon Musk and singer Grimes revealed that their baby son’s name was something akin to a mathematical equation than just a plain old Kevin or Justin (or even named after a fruit), social media had an absolute field day.
It might please you to know that earlier this week, the couple had changed their son’s name, perhaps realising that it was indeed a tad complicated. So, we now henceforth announce that the new baby’s name is… X Æ A-Xii. You might be wondering what the change is so we’ll break the formula down for you: the number 12 is now replaced with Roman numerals. According to California state law, individual’s names must only contain alphabets from the English language so the number had to be swapped out. Grimes also revealed to Bloomberg that the couple has given their child the affectionate nickname of “Little X” since the name change—superhero or rapper in the making, we’re not too sure yet but it seems this child is already destined for greatness with such a name.
Here’s how Twitter reacted to the news:

I’m glad they finally came to their senses
— Brian Roth (@BRoth21) May 25, 2020

kid looks like he’s named after a license plate
— phelix (@phielings) May 25, 2020

pic.twitter.com/e9au5sVwWi
— Tailor & Barber (@TailorAndBarber) May 25, 2020

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#BuroFitMum: Interview with Nor Soraya

Lifestyle
#BuroFitMum: Interview with Nor Soraya
#fitnessgoals

16.05.2017
By Su Fen Tan

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Seeing Soraya’s many awe-inducing yoga practice pictures on Instagram, one might think that she is a full time yoga instructor, but that is not quite the case. While Soraya does conduct classes (see the Buro team take on her Inversions and Arm Balancing class here), she also runs a PR agency and she is a mum too—of course we had to have her on our #BuroFitMum series! Here, watch as the inspiring yogi get comfortable in a headstand, telling us about her yoga practice, personality traits she shares with her daughter, as well as the biggest lesson she has learnt as a mum:

Keep up with Soraya’s yoga journey on Instagram at @norsoraya.

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Beauty
4 Celebrities ‘Face the Wild’ with SK-II and National Geographic
Extreme expeditions

10.03.2017
By Gwen Ong

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Some of the most beautiful places on earth are also some of the most extreme. In a test of the mind, body and spirit (and skin!), ‘Face the Wild, Face the Camera Extreme Expeditions’ captures four personalities battling some of the world’s toughest environments.

The series of short vignettes presented by SK-II and the National Geographic features award-winning actress Kasumi Arimura, global fashion icon Chiara Ferragni, celebrated Chinese actress Nini and South Korean’s top actress and national boxer Lee Si Young. From an oppressively hot jungle in Japan to a parched desert in America, these women were subjected to the harshest conditions where each had to put herself and her skin to the test.
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Kasumi Arimura went on assignment in the oppressively hot and dense Yanbaru jungle in Okinawa, Japan with harsh UV rays, sweltering heat and biting insects.
Chiara Ferragni explored one of the acrid places in Western America – the scorching Anza Borrego Desert where she had to fight dehydration, dizziness and dry heat.
Nini endured a challenging trek through a frozen and moisture-less mountain range in Northern China with bitterly cold sub-zero temperatures and arid conditions.
Lee Si Young took on Indonesia’s Ijen Volcano, one of the most stunning yet dangerous locations on earth with its harmful sulphurous fumes.

In the ‘Face the Wild’ segment, National Geographic Explorer, Hannah Reyes documents and explores diverse ecosystems, topographies and cultures with the four celebrities. While in the ‘Face the Camera’ segment, the four ladies gamely take on a one-of-a-kind beauty shoots with notable fashion photographers, Jesper McIlroy and Kirk Cheung to see if their skin had truly withstood the extremities with the help of the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. SK-II’s iconic essence contains over 90 percent Pitera—a natural bio-ingredient that has vitamins, amino acids and minerals to help skin retain its natural functions.

Watch how the ladies fare in the extreme expeditions below:

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Fashion
A day in the life of a Malaysian model—featuring Natalie Prabha

14.09.2020
By Joan Kong

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RECOMMENDED

Couture wedding gowns that will make you feel like a fairytale princess

As one of the rising models in the local fashion scene, Natalie Prabha is not only known for her modelesque figure or her modelling work. She’s also one of the few vegan influencers in Malaysia, and a scroll through her Instagram will give you a better insight into the lifestyle. If you’ve ever wondered what a model’s routine in a day of work and play is like, we tagged along as she goes from a slow morning at home to a leisurely afternoon in town to a fashion shoot. Also in tow? The accessories from Salvatore Ferragamo’s Viva line that are hot right now.

From the launch of its Boxyz bag to the popular Viva flats, it’s safe to say that Salvatore Ferragamo has been killing it in the accessories department in the past year. But if you’re itching for more, the brand has recently introduced the latest member of its Viva family—the Viva Bow bag. Trendy, timeless, and versatile, the plush arm candy embodies the stellar qualities of an everyday bag. Coupled with the shoes that have become a new icon of the Maison’s? Name a better combo. We’ll wait.
Watch the video below, and find out more about the model as she lets us in on her favourite cafes at the moment, her shoot prep, and her day-off routine:
On her favourite breakfast food
Pancakes, smoothie bowls, and sourdough toasts!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Natalie Prabha (@talieprabs) on Aug 4, 2020 at 12:15am PDT

On the cafe scene in KL and its vegan offerings
More cafes are offering vegan options, especially for their coffee—oat milk is a must! But when it comes to food, not so much. I think the lack of demand for vegan dishes might be the reason. So, let’s create the demand together!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Natalie Prabha (@talieprabs) on Sep 30, 2019 at 3:51am PDT

On her favourite cafes in KL
Lisette’s Café and Bakery and Rubberduck are two of my favourites mainly because of the ambience. I like places that are filled with greenery and those take me back to my holidays in Bali. They also have good vegan options too.
On the new hot spots in KL
The Hungry Tapir is one of the most instagrammed places in KL and I find myself having dinners and drinks there at least once a month since they opened! They serve amazingly delicious vegan food and some of their cocktails are made with Lihing which is a Sabahan rice wine. I love my Sabahan heritage and the cocktails are super yummy, so that’s a bonus for me.
On her fashion shoot prep
I always eat clean and low-sodium foods the night before to prevent bloating. I also make sure that I get enough sleep so that I have enough energy to power through the shoot. Oh, and applying sheet masks before the shoot is also a must!

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A post shared by Natalie Prabha (@talieprabs) on May 28, 2020 at 2:57am PDT

On her day-off routine
I’ll usually work on my social media content on my day-offs, be it filming my recipe videos or fashion styling videos. The next project I’m about to start is filming my skincare routine—I’ve been getting a lot of requests for those!

ON SALVATORE FERRAGAMO AS A BRAND
The brand is perfect for ladies who love to experiment with both feminine and masculine silhouettes. It also strikes the right balance between minimalism and maximalism—a style which is very me!

ON THE SALVATORE FERRAGAMO VIVA SHOES AND VIVA BOW BAGS
One word: Obsessed! They’re a definite must-haves in a modern woman’s everyday wardrobe.

Credits
Text and styling: Joan KongArt direction: Sarah Tai and Joan KongImages: Sarah TaiVideography: Zakwan TaufiqModel: Natalie PrabhaLocation: Thanks to Ana Tomy and Kooky Cream
The Salvatore Ferragamo Viva collection is now available in stores.

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Natalie Prabha
Malaysian
Accessories
Fashion
Salvatore Ferragamo
Merdeka
Malaysia Day
Models
AW20