Body + Wellness
Why do I stink? 5 reasons why your BO is bad and how to fix it

10.06.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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Everyone smells sometimes, and that’s a fact. Body odour is a cruel mistress and she will strike one way or another—that’s a promise. The most valiant warriors may fend off her attacks by practising excellent personal hygiene and dousing themselves in ample fragrances, but some are at a disadvantage from the get-go.
It may be that your diet and genetics are your biggest obstacle, or it could also be something totally out of your control, like a malfunctioning washer-dryer unit. Either way, if you’re struggling with the big stink (not to be confused with the Great Stink of 1858), we have you covered.
Ahead, we delve into all the factors that may be causing your body odour as well as all the ways you can address them head-on.
You’re using the wrong deodorants

READ: 7 Gender-neutral natural deodorants to keep your underarms fresh all-day long
If you’ve tried bottle after bottle of deodorant and can’t seem to find one that keeps your BO at bay, you may want to read on.
Some of us are just sweatier than others—you’re definitely not alone in that, and there is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. That said, it’s no secret that more sweat production is usually followed by more body odour. So, if you’re really struggling to find a deodorant that works for you, try looking at the antiperspirant section.
While deodorants protect against odour (with varying success), antiperspirants go the extra mile and tackle your stink at its source: Sweat production! If you take away the food source of all the BO-causing bacteria that resides on your skin, there is no way for them to produce the pesky odour compounds that plague your senses. They usually contain ingredients like aluminium which block the pores on the outer layer of your skin, which in turn blocks sweat from rising to the surface. Neat!
If you’re looking for a good antiperspirant, here are some of our favourites:

Fresh Sugar Roll-On Deodorant Antiperspirant SHOP HERE

Clinique Antiperspirant-Deodorant Roll-OnSHOP HERE

Kiehl’s Superbly Efficient Anti-Perspirant and DeodorantSHOP HERE

If all fails, there is one more thing you can try. It sounds a little crazy, but this is one is an official BURO tried-and-tested life hack that actually works: If you have an AHA or BHA toner lying around, consider using it on your pits. No, seriously.
It may not work for everyone, but the idea behind it is pretty robust. Firstly, these acid toners tend to have a lower pH (they are acids, after all), which helps to kill off any pesky odour-causing bacteria. Secondly, the AHAs help to get rid of dead skin cells and lighten hyperpigmentation while the BHAs work as an anti-inflammatory. All in all, you could be the proud owner of clean, brightened armpits!
PSST: Shop our favourite AHA/BHA toners below:

Ren Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA TonicSHOP HERE

OleHenriksen Glow2OH™ Dark Spot TonerSHOP HERE

Galinée Face Vinegar TonerSHOP HERE

You’re not washing properly

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We’re not suggesting that you don’t shower—we’re only suggesting that you may not be as diligent as you should be in the shower. Depending on how grubby you are, your body’s needs change with respect to cleansing. For instance, if you’re fresh out of the gym and you’re particularly sweaty, it’s best to double cleanse your body once you hit the showers (yes, double cleansing applies to your body as well as your face).
READ: Your guide to cleansing yourself after exercise—from cold showers to double cleansing
Why? The first pass with soap gets the most obvious grub and grime off your skin, but the second ensures that you are, in fact, squeaky clean.
If you find that your armpits smell foul no matter how hard you scrub, it may be time to invest in a bar of antibacterial soap. Body odour itself is caused by the breakdown of sweat by bacteria on the skin, so if you nip these micro-buggers in the bud, you can assure all-day freshness with more confidence.
You’re a little damp… along with everything else in your life

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It should go without saying, but moist conditions on the body are a breeding ground for stink. So, once you leave the shower, make sure you’re thorough with your wipe-down. Keeping your armpits dry makes it very difficult for the BO-causing bacteria on your skin to settle down and get working.
That said, there’s no point in doing a thorough once over post-wash if the towel you’re using is gross in itself. Step one here is obviously to make sure that you’re washing your towel regularly. Now, this doesn’t mean you’re resigned to a life of never-ending laundry days—no, once a week will suffice.
Step two is to make sure that your towel is able to fully dry between uses. Whether this means cracking open a window to decrease the humidity in your bathroom or actually hanging it up on the rail in your bathroom for once, try a few things and see what works for you.
READ: Body breakouts: How to get rid of your chest, back and butt acne
Your clothes are letting you down

Hey. Maybe it isn’t you with the questionable scent—it’s just your stinky laundry. It’s probably not your fault, either: Sometimes, no matter how diligent you are with your wash-and-dry routine, there are still extenuating circumstances that may be letting you down.
For instance, you may not be using enough detergent. If you’re rationing your laundry soap in the hopes of saving a little cash here and there or—more likely—you just haven’t worked out the perfect soap-to-load ratio, you may be doing yourself a disservice. We’re not saying you have to dump a whole bottle into the wash, though. Just try increasing the amount of detergent you use in each cycle and see if it makes a difference!
Parrying off the former point, you may also be overloading your machine. There is absolutely no way your clothes are going to be able to get a good wash if you’re shoving them in your washer past capacity. Though it’s tempting to just stuff your machine full to cut down on the number of loads, you should try putting less stuff in your machine and see if that makes a difference!
Alternatively, the problem may lie within your washing machine itself. Though anything beats having to hand wash clothes, washing machines do have an irritating knack for harbouring stagnant water, limescale, and all the bacteria and mould that comes with the territory. Ergo, the solution to your problems is to give your washer unit a deep clean.
You need to reassess your diet

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Unfortunately, your favourite garlic-heavy pasta dish does more than just linger on your breath—it can also change the way you smell! It’s true: You are what you eat… sort of.
When you eat large amounts of particular foods, the byproducts of their digestion (also known as “volatile organic compounds” or “VOCs”) may be excreted via your sweat glands, giving off that unpleasant stench you’ve become acquainted with. If you suspect your diet might be behind your bad body odour, try avoiding the following foods:

Garlic
Onions
Alcohol
Cruciferous vegetables
Meat and fish

Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to help your food-related BO other than avoiding the key culprits altogether. If you can’t curb your eating habits, it’s time to bring in the big guns (lots of cologne and perfume).
Still stinky? You should probably see a doctor

Unfortunately, some stinks just cannot be resolved with a few life hacks—if your body odour persists, it might be high time to haul yourself over to the doctor’s office. Body odour can be an indicator of health conditions like diabetes, liver disease, or kidney disease, all of which are best diagnosed sooner than later.
Fret not, though—while BO is a good indicator for the aforementioned health conditions, it’s not a guarantee. For all you know, you may walk out of the doctor’s office with a prescription for “industrial strength” antiperspirant and an otherwise clean bill of health.
Find more body and wellness stories here.

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Buro Loves
BURO Beauty Stash: Rare Beauty’s new mascara, ABH’s new Norvina palette and more makeup from September

29.09.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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

In conjunction with the relaxing SOPs, September was rife with makeup launches to ready you for your reintroduction to society—here are our thoughts on this month’s latest makeup releases, from Rare Beauty’s mascara to Benefit’s new brow hero:
Rare Beauty
Perfect Strokes Universal Volumizing Mascara, RM98

READ: Exclusive: Selena Gomez on Rare Beauty’s Malaysian debut, transparency in mental health, and her favourite makeup tricks
“It should come as no surprise that Rare Beauty’s latest launch is a mascara. After all, mascara was the only thing missing from the brand’s otherwise full lineup. Needless to say, the second this dropped, I was eager to get my hands on it—after all, I had been blown away by the rest of the brand’s products, so I was expecting the absolute most.
“Granted, my expectations may have been a little high, but it’s still a good mascara. Unfortunately, though Selena Gomez created this to suit any lash type, it did not suit mine. The Perfect Strokes mascara is formulated to volumise and lengthen any set of lashes, and I can attest to the fact that it indeed does both of those things. However, as my lashes are generally very sparse, the mascara didn’t look the best on me. Personally, I found that the thick, straight wand simply did not suit my eye shape and the results ended up emphasising my uneven lashline.
“That said, I fell asleep wearing this mascara (it was an afternoon siesta, not a full 8-hour rest), and by the time I had woken up, it had barely budged. A few of my lashes had stuck together and there was a little smudging on my (very) oily eyelids, but this is pretty standard for any mascara on me. I’d consider that a success. Also, one thing I particularly liked about this mascara was the way it reacted to water—it doesn’t get inky or streaky. Instead, it balls up so you can easily pick it off. It’s definitely not waterproof (nor does it claim to be), but it did manage to last through plenty of sweat with minimal smudging, so I’d count that as another win. All in all, it’s not my favourite mascara, but I could definitely see this being a holy grail for those with thin lashes but denser lashlines.” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Beauty Writer
Laura Mercier
Light Catcher Translucent Loose Setting Powder, RM187

“The newest Translucent Loose Setting Powder from Laura Mercier initially had me confused. Why on earth would you want to put a highlighter all over your face, right? As it turns out—it doesn’t actually make you look like a lightbulb when used correctly. I attended a masterclass with the ‘Dewy Dumpling’ herself, makeup artist Nam Vo, and she ran me through a few stunning ways to get the most out of this powder.
“For starters, it’s amazing for adding dimension on the face—to use it as a regular highlighter, press it into the high points of your mug to catch the light in all the right areas (that’s where the ‘Light Catcher’ name comes from, if you couldn’t tell). The stamping and pressing motion gives you maximum colour payoff and results in that blinding glow à la Instagrammers circa 2016. However, if you’d like to take it up a notch, you can also use the highlighter as an all-over luminiser—when you’re done with your liquid and cream complexion products, just dust the Light Catcher lightly over your whole face to yield a beautiful glow-from-within look. It works so well and looks so subtle because of how finely milled the powder is. Personally, I’m in love with the results.” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Beauty Writer
See it in action here:

Benefit Cosmetics
POW!made Brow Pomade

“I have never really filled in my eyebrows beyond a few coats of tinted brow gel as they are already thick and dark, and doing anything more usually makes them look too overwhelming. However, my eyebrows are uneven, so I have been looking to experiment with ways to balance their shape a little more as of late.
“The POW!made is really creamy and easy to use. I use an angled brush to fill in the start and end of my eyebrows with hair-like strokes, and I blend it in with a spoolie. It’s really that simple—and it lasts all day! It doesn’t get dry or crusty with exposure to the air, and it’s also decently smudge-proof and transfer-proof. I’m pleased, to say the least.” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Beauty Writer
See it in action here:

Too Faced
Better Than Sex Doll Lashes Mascara

“I’m obsessed with this mascara wand. I hate wearing mascara for the sole reason that it is always a messy ordeal for me. No matter what life hacks I implement or how much care I take during application, a spot or two always ends up on my lid. This isn’t usually an issue if I’m not wearing eyeshadow on the day, but when I am, it can break the entire look.
“This skinny, curved wand is so unbelievably precise—it catches every single lash (it has even found lashes I didn’t know existed) and gives them this amazing boost in length. Better yet, I first tried this without curling my very stick-straight lashes, and it somehow managed to find a way to curl them up anyway. With a little pre-curl? This mascara is unstoppable. Plus, if you consider the additional fact that it is also totally smudge-proof, there is nothing more you could ask for. Hands-down, it’s my new go-to!” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Beauty Writer
SHOP HERE
Anastasia Beverly Hills (Norvina)
NORVINA Pro Pigment Palette Vol. 5 Lilac

“I have recently parted with my long-time favourite Urban Decay Vice 2 Palette (now discontinued, sadly). Admittedly, the binning was long overdue, but I digress. Anyway, I have been in the market for a new eyeshadow palette, so I was ecstatic to receive this one. My day-to-day look for events tends to incorporate neutrals—I know, what a shocker—but my evening looks tend to be a little bit more varied. I like going all-out with many different shades of eyeshadow (usually chosen to match my outfits), and I gravitate towards palettes with a range of shades to choose from.
Now, this palette certainly has a range of shades, though most of them are in the purple family. That said, it has a surprisingly strong selection of neutral tones to choose from, and they are an absolute dream to use. The eyeshadows are pigmented, easily blendable, and varied in texture (we’ve got mattes, shimmers, and glitters, people!). So, though I can’t see myself getting much use from the purple portion of the palette outside of special occasions, I can definitely see myself reaching for the neutrals on this palette on a day-to-day basis. Of course, if you just absolutely love purple, this is the ideal palette for you.” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Beauty Writer
Dear Dahlia
Blooming Edition Petal Touch Plumping Lip Velour, RM125

“This is a liquid lipstick I would gladly use again. It applies really smoothly, leaves a very thin layer on the lips that feels really comfortable, and delivers a decent amount of pigment. I got the shade Tickle, which I would describe as a great your-lips-but-better shade, and I’m glad to say that it applies true to colour on the lips.
“That said, as far as the plumping factor goes, I cannot say that I noticed much of a difference in the appearance of my lips. Sure, there was a tingling, minty sensation that lasted for 20 minutes or so, but no changes in lip plumpness throughout my wear test. If you’re looking for a plumping lipstick, I’d recommend you just pair this with a trusted plumping gloss (perhaps the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Heat?). However, if you’re looking for a great, comfortable liquid lipstick that won’t leave your lips dry and cracked, this is the one.” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Beauty Writer
SHOP HERE
For more beauty reviews, click here.

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Beauty
Why you need a good night-time skincare routine
Beauty sleep

09.08.2017
By Gwen Ong

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Studies don’t lie and neither does the state of our skin. Experts had for years been preaching about the effects of a restful night and it’s about time we pay attention. According to a research by University of California-Irvine, our cells regenerate faster while we’re sleeping, hence a good night-time skincare routine is vital.

The theory is: When we lay down to rest our head for the day, our cells get to work in repairing the damages incurred from environmental pollutants and UV radiation. During this relaxing period, our blood vessels start to dilate, thus allowing an increased flow of nutrients and oxygen to the skin for the healing process. While our cells do this naturally anyway with or without a skincare routine, think of it as an opportunity to feed your skin with all the good stuff so that you can wake up with a healthier glow.

To optimise cellular repair of the skin, keep these pointers in mind:

Start with a good cleanse
It’s the end of the day and you may feel a little lethargic but never neglect a proper wash. Your dull skin may not just be because you’re tired; it could also be due to build-up of dead skin cells, oil and dirt. It is recommended to double cleanse – first wipe the gunk away with a remover like micellar water then use a cleanser. You can also use a cleansing brush to gently exfoliate your skin in the shower to help lift the top layer of the skin.

Balance out with toning
This step is crucial in how effective your night-time skincare routine is. A toner functions to bring the skin’s surface pH back to normal; it helps by replenishing and nourishing the skin with what was stripped off during cleansing. A well-formulated toner also provides skin with vital hydrating ingredients to transform how skin looks and feels, leaving it ready for the next moisturising step.

Address your skin concerns
This is the best time to look into your skin concerns and focus on improving your skin condition. Choose a skin treatment to pump up the skin with antioxidants in your fight against UV and free-radical damage, or hydrate with a mask for improved barrier function, or use a serum to minimise pigmentation, the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone.

Lock in the moisture
By now, you should have two types of moisturisers – one for day and another for night. The former function to protect while the latter is to repair/nourish the skin. Most night cream is formulated with a heavier consistency to surge the skin with moisture while you rest; apply from the neck upwards. You may also want to seal in the added moisture with a lightweight facial oil to further hydrate the skin.

Don’t forget the eyes
The key to ace that ‘bright-eyed’ look in the morning is to incorporate eye pampering into your night-time beauty routine. Apply a cream or gel to the delicate area so it stays supple to help you maintain a youthful-appearance.

Related stories:
Beauty sleep is real and why you need to catch up on it this weekend
5 Beauty staples for your best sleep ever

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Beauty
How to kick back and relax this weekend—the beauty edit

18.04.2019
By Wei Yeen Loh

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

If most of you have already made exciting plans for this weekend (including eating, art-exploring and perhaps travelling for some of you wanderlusters), don’t forget to sneak in some beauty TLC for your body’s largest organ—your skin—in between all the weekend warrior-ing.
On our weekend beauty checklist are: a one-of-a-kind organic hair treatment that doubles up as an aromatherapeutic regimen, a celebrity-approved oxygen facial to revive your skin (Madonna, Kristen Bell, Michelle Yeoh and Justin Timberlake all swear by it), and a new hair removal treatment that’s been touted as the new (better version of) IPL.
Immerse yourself in a sensorial experience with La Mer at Suria KLCC Main Concourse

La Mer’s The Concentrate has a revamp and the brand is going all out in  once more. From now till 21 April, drop by the pop-up event at Suria KLCC’s Main Concourse to explore with a slew of activities. Get a personalised skin consultation with La Mer therapists and treat yourself shortly after with a sensorially luxurious hand treatment. Also, take a closer look at La Mer The Concentrate’s new design—inspired by kelp (what makes the hero ingredient, Miracle Broth)—and find out what makes the formula a bestseller.
Fun fact: La Mer The Concentrate is actually a multifunctional product that you can combine with other essentials in your beauty regime. Mix it with your moisturiser, foundation and even face mask for optimum results. A tip we gleaned from the event? A drop of this skin saviour in La Mer The Hand Treatment will give your tired hands the intense nourishment they deserve.
From now till 21st April at Suria KLCC Main Concourse.

Indulge your locks in an organic hair treatment with OWAY Head Spa at Number 76, Tribeca

Did you know—also known as Organic Way, OWAY is all about bringing the goodness of organic hair care ingredients from Ortofficina, Italy, to kickstart your hair pampering ritual in a big way? All ingredients in OWAY products are not only harvested but also distilled and produced on their very own farm estate in Bologna—and you get to experience them right here in Kuala Lumpur!
Things you’ll love: We love a good brand story, but we guarantee the OWAY Head Spa experience will be the best time-out you’ve had all week. Fully customised to your needs, this spa program is also an aromatherapeutic treatment rolled into one. Bonus: besides putting life back into your hair, the treatment comes with relaxing head and shoulder massages using custom oil blends to melt the stress away and transport you into a state of bliss—even if just for an hour or two.
4 Surprising moments:

A hair and scalp analysis, which revealed concerns we never realised we had—this is why a professional opinion matter!
It’s not a one-size-fits-all—the head spa is curated based on your needs, after which, one of four treatments (ultra-delicate, purifying, detoxifying or micro-stimulating) will be selected for you.
Handcrafted solutions: be pampered by hair masks, infused with a divine blend of essential oils and purifying solutions to rejuvenate dull tresses—the results speak for themselves.
Anti-ageing Flowerfall: the final step of ‘bathing’ your hair and scalp in organic floral water (expect mild prickly sensations) as the liquid forms a protective shield against oxidative stress, preparing you to face the world head on—we highly recommend the experience.

OWAY Head Spa starts from RM390 for approximately 120 minutes at all Number 76 salons. By appointment only.

Try out Madonna’s favourite facial from Intraceuticals at Away Spa, W Kuala Lumpur

Facials that double up as skin therapy are our favourite for a few good reasons—even better when it comes with zero downtime, is absolutely painless, and feels wonderfully relaxing (almost sleep-inducing, might we add). If you’re all about facial quickies that rejuvenate your skin with effective results, opt for Intraceuticals’ oxygenated facials exclusively at W Kuala Lumpur’s Away Spa.
How does it help your skin? When we say that your skin will be boosted with oxygen, we literally mean it—hyperbaric oxygen is administered with professional-strength serums directly to the skin. Intraceuticals’ exclusive treatment promises to visibly plump and hydrate skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and dramatically lift the contours of the face.
Our takeaway: As far as relaxing facials go, this is on top of our list for how therapeutic and effective it is. I opted for the Rejuvenate Oxygen Facial that contains ingredients such as low weight hyaluronic, vitamins A, C, E, and green tea. Using an instrument that’s hooked up to a special oxygen machine, the therapist gently glided it on my skin—infusing both oxygen and the serums in smooth strokes. Needless to say, I dozed off very quickly, and only to wake up 60 minutes later with radiant skin (the I-woke-up-like-this glow is legit) that looked as though I already had base makeup on.
Intraceuticals Oxygen Facials start at RM250 for approximately 30 minutes at Away Spa, W Kuala Lumpur.

AFT is the new IPL: What you need to know about the latest (and near-painless!) hair removal treatment in town

Move over Intense Pulse Light, there’s a new long-term hair removal solution and it’s supposedly more effective and painless than the IPL! When STRIP told us about their new patented offering, the Advanced Fluorescence Technology (AFT), the news was met with anticipation and maybe just a little scepticism—how pain-free can waxing possibly be?
Our verdict: We approve—to our surprise, the AFT treatment really was as painless as it comes. Using the Powerpac Machine, an AFT session can be likened to an ultrasound experience, where a cooling gel is applied before the handheld tool is swept over in multiple passes across the targeted areas. The slightest (possibly the only) discomfort was a mild sting at certain points of the session but if you are accustomed to the standard waxing experience, this is a walk in the park. Key takeaways of the new technology:

AFT has the ability to distribute energy more evenly and precisely so you get better results and more thorough hair-removal.
The ‘In Motion’ technique used to sweep over targeted areas deliver just the right amount of energy over key areas for more successful hair removal compared to IPL treatments too. One thing to note though, for best long-term results, you’ll need around six AFT sessions.

Until 30th June, you can experience AFT trial offers below at all STRIP outlets.
AFT Underarm for women and men at RM 68 and RM 88 (Usual Price: RM 450 / RM 585)
AFT Brazilian at RM 188 and AFT Boyzilian at RM 288 (Usual Price: RM 900 / RM 1,170)
AFT Bottom Half Leg for women and men at RM 288 and RM 388 (Usual Price: RM 900 / RM 1,170)

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Fashion
9 Best costume rental shops to get you ready for Halloween this year

11.10.2019
By Nathanael Hsieh

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

‘Tis the season to be spooky as Halloween is in T-minus three weeks! Did you know that the celebration is widely believed to be originated from the ancient Celtic harvest festivals where people would light up bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts? But as the years passed, the spiritual and religious meaning behind Halloween has been replaced with activities including trick-or-treating and pumpkin carving, although dressing up in costumes still remain a big part of the festivity. As October 31st is right around the corner, if you have yet to get your costumes sorted, we’ve got your back. Not sure where to start? Below are seven costume rental stores where you can score the perfect look—accessories included.

Costumes ‘N’ Parties

 Being the oldest costume service in Kuala Lumpur, Costumes ‘N’ Parties has over 30,000 costumes as well as an extensive range of stage makeup, wigs, hats, and accessories available. If you want options, here’s the place to go. Wanna dress up as Spiderman this year? They’ve got you covered. A Stormtrooper? They have it too. Yet to have a costume in mind? Just flip through their album and make your selections. If you’d like to decide at the comfort of your own home, you can also rent the costumes online.
Extra Services: The store also offers deliveries through services like Grab Delivery, Lalamove, and MrSpeedy. All depending on what you prefer!
Address: #L2-09, Level 2, The Weld, 76, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays, from 11am to 8pm; Saturdays, from 11am to 6pm

Costumes Empire

 Established in 2006, Costumes Empire offers Halloween outfits at different price points—perfect for those who are looking at affordable options for different Halloween parties this month. From Disney princesses and villains to the cutest cartoon characters, this store has them all. Can’t find what you’re looking for? They also provide made-to-order services to help you create the perfect costume—time to snag the best-dressed prize!
Address: Lot 2.36 & 2.37, 1stFloor, Wisma Central, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur; and Unit B-1-23A, Block Bougainvillea, 10 Boulevard, Sprint Highway, 47400 Petaling Jaya
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, from 11am to 8pm; Saturdays, from 11am to 6pm

Century Fiesta

 Century Fiesta has over 6,000 costumes and accessories available for rental, so if you’re looking for the perfect look this year, one thing’s for sure: You’ll definitely leave this place with a costume (or two) in your hands. Psst… For all you Little Monsters out there, they even have a section dedicated to Lady Gaga to channel your pop icon.
Address: No. 44-3, Jalan 24/70A, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, from 11am to 7:30pm; Saturdays, from 11am to 5pm

Jom Fiésta

Jom Fiésta is self declared the largest costume shop in Malaysia! With about 5000, ranging in 31 different costume categories—50s-60s, circus, fariy tale, Greece & myths, and more—finding the perfect look here is easy, to say the least. They specialise in group bookings, corporate events and even custom costume ordering! Equipt with a user friendly website, this might just be the right place to go during this time.
Extra Services: To keep you safe at home the store offers dalivery services through services like Grab Delivery, Lalamove, and MrSpeedy or any curier services if you have time to spare.
Address: 49-1, Jalan Melati Utama 4 Taman Melati Utama, 53100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysiaa
Opening Hours: tuesday to Saturday, from 11am to 7.30pm; Sundays, from 12pm to 4pm; and is closed on Mondays.

Costume World

Imagine showing up at the party as Catwoman and seeing your two other girlfriends in the exact same ensemble? The horror! Costume World has got your back for the variety of a character it offers, so your squad can show up as the same character without twinning from head to toe. They also cater to different body shapes and sizes, so if you’re worried about getting a costume that fits, fret not.
Address: B-3A-17, Pusat Perdagangan Pelangi Square, Persiaran Suria PJU 6, Pelangi Damansara, 47800 Petaling Jaya
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, from 11am to 7pm; Saturdays, from 11am to 4pm

Eternal Costume

If cosplay is your thing, Eternal Costume is where you should go to this year. Aside from the cosplay costume rental service—including Naruto, Dragon Ball, Spirited Away and more—if you’re looking to keep the outfit, you can buy it off them too. Other options include traditional ensembles such as Japanese kimonos and Spanish Matador costumes for men. Custom-made services are also available if you can’t find the character you’re looking for. Do note that an appointment is required if you plan to drop by.
Extra Services: Just like a few others, Eternal costumes aslo can have the costumes you want dilivered right to your door step, through services like Grab Delivery, Lalamove, and MrSpeedy.
Address: B 1-8-2,  Midfields Square West, Jalan 14/108c, Taman Sungai Besi, 57100 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: By Appointment Only

Melody Party

Looking for Halloween costumes and supplies for your celebration? Melody Party is a one-stop-shop for all your party needs including costumes and balloons in all shapes and sizes. Did we mention that they can organise your event and provide sound and light system rental services too?
Address: 27-2 & 27-3, Jalan PJU 5/12, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:30am to 7pm
 8. Spotlight at IPC
If you are looking to truly own your halloween look this year, Spotlight is the place for you. The store is a family owned and operated Australian Business, with stores all though out Australia, New Zeland, and Asia, that first opened in 1973. The store now specialises in an array of home necessities, hobbie crafting, sowing, fabrics, and party. So if you are looking to buy your costume, this is the place to go, offering a fun array of kids and adoult costumes, form banana to cool robot costumes, they have what ypu need!
Extra Services: Shop online for the spooky costume you want and have it delivered right to your door step from their website at Spotlightstores.com/my
Adress: 2, Jalan PJU 7/2, Mutiara Damansara, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. IPC Shopping Centre.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunsay, from 10am to 10pm.
 9. Costume Adonis and Dash
Specialising in Halloween themed costumes, Costume Adonis and Dash has all your iconic movie charectors, fantasy, retro, and you name it, they have it! Even having fun accessoties to best compleate your look, like funky glasses, wigs, hats, and amazing face masks! So rock your scaries halloween or live out your Elsa dreams, any thing is possible!
Adress: Wisma Central, Unit 2.06 First Floor, Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, from 10am to 6:30pm; Saturdays from 10am to 4:30pm

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Fashion
8 Limited edition pieces to shop this long Merdeka weekend

27.08.2018
By Joan Kong

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1.     Hackett
In conjunction with Merdeka and Malaysia Day, Hackett has released a Limited Edition Country Polo in Malaysia, and the best part? It’s the first piece to be launched in the Asian market. Take one look at the polo T-shirt and you’ll notice the Jalur Gemilang embroidered on the right chest, and the number one on the sleeve. To finish off, find the word ‘Malaysia’ emblazoned on the back—there’s no better time to rock this piece loud and proud.
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The Hackett London Limited Edition Malaysia Polo Tee retails at RM725, and is available at the Hackett London Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC stores.

2.     FashionValet x Joe Flizzow
Hackett is not the only one that launched a National Day-themed piece; Joe Flizzow has teamed up with FashionValet for a Merdeka-inspired collection, and some looks have already sold out as we speak. Aptly named “1957”, the unisex line is made up of the colours of our Malaysian flag, such as red, white, blue and yellow. Consisting of hoodies, T-shirts, sweaters and track pants, the pieces reflect Joe’s streetwear style, as he was heavily involved in the design process.
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The FashionValet x Joe Flizzow collection ranges from RM69 to RM199, and is now available on FashionValet’s website, and its stores at Bangsar Village II, Pavilion KL, IOI City Mall Putrajaya and Publia Shopping Gallery.

3.     Gucci
For Chinese Valentine’s Day, Gucci has released new limited edition designs of its popular GG Marmont bags, and if you already owned something from the collection, here’s another must-haves to add to your growing collection. Available in black and pink, take your pick from the wallets and the medium and mini bags, all peppered with embellished heart-shaped motifs. We love how the pink and red hearts pop against the black bags.
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The exclusive Gucci GG Marmont collection is available at its Suria KLCC store.

4.     Jaeger-LeCoultre
If you’re looking for a new timepiece that is both elegant and sporty, check out the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris collection that was launched in Malaysia last month. The brand unveiled not one, but two limited edition pieces—the Polaris Geographic World Time watch and the Memovox Polaris watch from 1968. Psst…only 250 and 1,000 pieces are available worldwide respectively.
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The Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris collection is available at the Jaeger-LeCoultre Pavilion KL store.

5.     Ray-Ban
Are you a fan of the signature Ray-Ban Wings aviators? Good news: The eyewear is now available in gold, and only 500 pieces are available worldwide. Featuring a 24-carat gold-plated lens and the engraved lens logo in gold, the sunglasses embody the signature ’80s vibe with that extra trendy factor.
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The Ray-Ban Golden Wings sunglasses are only available in Goldblitz Optical at Pertama Shopping Centre, and Reliance Optical Centre in Bangsar.

6.     Sophia Webster x MyTheresa
If you’re planning to do some shopping online, here’s a collection you won’t be able to get in stores locally. Sophia Webster celebrated its partnership with luxury online retailer MyTheresa for the first time by launching an exclusive Jumbo Lilico collection, which was first introduced by the British shoe label in Spring/Summer 2018. The six boots and pumps were given an update with different colour combinations introduced, with an upsized 3D leather flowers adorning the front.
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The collection is now available on the Sophia Webster website and MyTheresa.com

7.     Puma x The Weeknd
To commemorate the Puma Suede’s 50th anniversary, the brand has tapped The Weeknd to give the sneakers his own rendition, and the end result doesn’t disappoint. A remix of the iconic silhouette with the singer-songwriter’s sexy edge, the Suede 50 is reintroduced as a mid-cut boot that exudes a hint of utilitarian feel, with buckle straps replacing the laces. The shoe is available in three colourways—black, glacier grey and black and white.

The Puma Suede x The Weeknd collection retails at RM499, and is now available at the Puma KLCC and Sunway Pyramid stores.

8.     Superga x Disney
Aside from Swarovski, Superga is also on the Disney bandwagon, and we’re not complaining! To celebrate Mickey’s 90th birthday, the Italian footwear brand introduced a line of classics that’s been given a magical update. From Mickey icons plastered on the soles to bold and colourful kaleidoscope prints, regardless of your style, there’ll be a pair for the Disney fan in you. The best part? They have them in kids’ sizes too.
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Superga x Disney collection” rid=”6468″ order=”a_tstamp”}
The Superga x Disney collection will be available at its Suria KLCC store and online.

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Technology
Giveaway: Win cool DJI gadgets worth more than RM6,600 this Father’s Day

18.06.2021
By Adelina Tan

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Photographs and videos help us remember all the memories we never want to forget. It’s why we’re big fans of capturing the precious moments spent with family and friends. The DJI Pocket 2 and DJI Om 4 can help you take smooth, high-quality photos and videos to last a lifetime. In these socially distanced times, they’re also a great way to stay connected with loved ones who you can’t meet up with right now. Discover more about these two gadgets from DJI and how you can win them for dad this Father’s Day!
DJI Pocket 2

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Judge the DJI Pocket 2 not by its size (the same can be said of dads, too). DJI’s most powerful and portable stabilised mini camera yet, the Pocket 2 packs full-scale performance in its lightweight and tiny body. This three-axis gimbal has ActiveTrack 3.0, whereby you can select a subject and it’ll keep it in the frame automatically. Weighing just 117g and offering up to 140 minutes of battery life, the Pocket 2 captures images with improved quality than its predecessor through the larger 1/1.7” image sensor. Its sweeping 20mm f/1.8 lens also allows you to fit more into your pictures and videos.
These can be captured in 16MP or 64MP for photographs using the high-resolution mode, and at a maximum video resolution of 4K/60fps at 100Mbps with HDR added. In other words, your content will have stunning details and vivid colours! Want to zoom in for a close-up? No problem: Get closer without actually moving using the 8x zoom and 64-megapixel mode, or 4x lossless zoom in 1080p (or 16-megapixel mode). There’s also the Hybrid 2.0 AF autofocus to ensure your images and videos look sharp and clear.

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Of course, when it comes to videos, image quality is only half of the equation. The Pocket 2 comes with DJI Matrix Stereo, a new and improved audio system that records crisp and clear sound for a more immersive experience. It’s more or less fail-proof, with the four microphones strategically placed clear of where your hands will be when holding the Pocket 2. Directional Audio enhances sound recording, SoundTrack adjusts the audio based on where the camera is facing, while Audio Zoom narrows the sound field when zooming the camera in. You can even filter out unwanted background sounds with the optional wind noise reduction function.
All these features make the Pocket 2 very beginner-friendly. It powers on instantly using Fast Wake and has Drop Aware to prevent the gimbal from falling. Moreover, the intelligent pre-programmed modes will enable you take photos and videos like a seasoned pro. Easily experiment with slo-mo, timelapses, panoramas, livestreaming, and putting together content for IG Reels and TikTok. The Pocket 2 can be customised to your needs, with a removable base plate that allows you to attach new accessories. It can be used as a stand-alone stabilised camera, connected to your mobile device with a dedicated phone connector, or operated remotely with wireless accessories.
The DJI Pocket 2 can be purchased in two options. The basic package includes the Mini Control Stick and tripod mount (1/4”) for RM1,549. The Creator Combo includes the Mini Control Stick, tripod mount (1/4”), Wide-Angle Lens, Wireless Microphone + Windscreen, Do-It-All Handle, and Micro Tripod for RM2,169.
Purchase from DJI Malaysia’s flagship store, authorised dealers, and official store on e-commerce platforms such as Lazada and Shopee.
DJI Om 4

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Fathers are a steady and reliable presence, always there to guide and support us as we navigate the curveballs of life. Much in the same way, the DJI Om 4 smartphone stabilizer is the perfect companion for adventures big and small. Take it anywhere to capture smoother and higher-quality images and videos—for sending to family group chats, uploading onto social media, or for your personal albums.
Even if you’ve never used anything like it, attaching the Om 4 to any phone is quick and easy. There are even two ways to go about it with DJI’s quick-snap magnetic attachment system. First is to keep the sleek, secure and lightweight metal clamp connected to the back of your phone where it can instantly attach to the Om 4. The second option removes the balancing step by sticking an aesthetically designed magnetic mount, with a ring holder, onto the back of your phone—making snapping onto the Om 4 even easier!
Either option keeps your phone from taking an untimely tumble. Kitted with high-quality materials, upgraded motors, and the latest in three-axis stabilizer technology, the Om 4 can support more weight than its predecessors. Its intuitive design is also built for capturing moments while on the go. With just one hand, you can control the stabilizer’s key features and functions.

.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570

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Food + Drink
#BUROEats: 8 New cafes and restaurants to visit in September 2022
For foodies and 'grammers

06.09.2022
By Natalie Khoo

Photo: @i.am.suz / Instagram | Photo: @weichunnn__125 / Instagram | Photo: @yvonnesoo / Instagram

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Where to eat in KL this month: A modern Latin-Asian restaurant in Chinatown’s latest hotel, a lush eatery cum bar in Imbi, and a dessert cafe in Kuchai Lama are among the new spots in town to dine in

1. Noon Viennoiserie

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Set in a triple-storey building in PJ that’s home to three different concepts, Noon Viennoiserie churns out fresh croissants and sourdoughs six days a week. Contrary to its name, this artisanal bakery cafe also welcomes early risers as well as visitors on a mid-day break to satisfy their carb cravings. Meanwhile, its neighbour, Ground Coffee Roasters, is responsible for serving the perfect cuppa Joe to complement your carb of choice; whereas the aptly named Second Floor rooftop bar opens for craft beer, cakes, and cocktails after 6pm.

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Address: Jalan SS 4C/5, SS4, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: 7.30am to 5.30pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) | Closed on Mondays
Facebook | Instagram

2. Raw Kitchen Hall
Photo: Else Hotel
Raw Kitchen Hall has just opened its doors at the jazzy new Else Hotel in Chinatown as an extension of its sister brand in Singapore. Besides serving as the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, the new kid on the block offers modern Latin-Asian comfort food in a sophisticated yet unpretentious space that inspires engaging conversations. Among the eclectic dishes on the menu include Pad Kra Pao Croquettes, Warung Wagyu Beef Brisket. and Miso Jerk Chicken, just to name a few.
Photo: Else Hotel
Address: Ground Floor, Else Retreats, 145, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 6am to 10.30pm daily
Contact: 014 2672887
Website | Instagram

3. Superluna KL

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If you’re a fan of Superfine in Seventeen Mall, meet its younger sibling: Superluna. Recently opening its doors in KL Eco City Mall, the clean, contemporary cafe offers a casual spot to catch up with friends or colleagues over coffee or brunch. The menu features a decent variety of sandwiches, bagels, toasts, and cakes.

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Address: Lot G-01, KL Eco City Mall, Jalan Bangsar, 59200 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm (weekdays) | 9.30am to 5.30pm (Saturdays) | Closed on Sunday
Contact: 03 4810 4652
Facebook | Instagram

4. Common Space

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Imbi has welcomed a new Common Space for coffee (or matcha, if you prefer) and comfort food, served in a lush, laid-back setting. Verdant alocasia plants line the entrance and liven up the interiors of the double-storey cafe, complemented by exposed white brick walls and rattan furniture that give the space a rustic edge. The current soft-launch menu includes a selection of pastas, burgers and desserts. There’s also be a cocktail bar on the way, set to open on the upper floor sometime this month.
Address: 40 Jalan 1/77A Off Jalan Imbi, Changkat Thambi Dollah, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 12pm to 10pm (Sundays to Thursdays) | 12pm to 12am (Fridays & Saturdays)
Facebook | Instagram

5. Guan’s

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Modern meets traditional at Guan’s in Taman Rasa Sayang, marrying your typical Chinese kopitiam (coffee shop) with contemporary cafe interiors. The newly opened space is a sister of the eatery of the same name and concept in Kota Kinabalu, except with a stronger emphasis on coffee culture as led by Klang Valley-based roastery, Brew & Bread. Similarly, patrons can expect a menu featuring local delights such as nasi lemak and curry mee, in addition to croissants, toasts, and pasta.

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Address: 29, Jalan SS 4C/5, Taman Rasa Sayang, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm (Tuesdays to Sundays)
Contact: 012 367 6613
Facebook | Instagram

6. Cafe Superfluous

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One may argue that adding another bakery cafe to KL’s F&B scene is *superfluous*, but we’re getting one anyway in the form of, well, Cafe Superfluous. Located in the Taman Desa neighbourhood, this minimal spot serves an array of sourdough toasts, croissants, freshly baked goods, and sweet pastries alongside coffee and other crafted beverages. The ambience is warm and inviting, with seating arrangements better fitted for smaller groups of two or three.

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Address: 35, Jalan Bukit Desa 5, Taman Bukit Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 8am to 4pm (Thursdays to Mondays)
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7. BuTian Desserts

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Who says desserts are often too sweet? Kuchai Lama’s new Bu Tian Desserts begs to differ, beckoning both dessert addicts and non-sweet tooths for a taste of its tea-based treats. The cafe’s name is literally translated from Mandarin to mean “not sweet”, with options spanning strawberry shortcakes, alcoholic tiramisu tarts, cakes, and an assortment of matcha delights. It’s also set to be a social media magnet with its warm, minimal aesthetic and pretty dried flower arrangements.

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Address: 16-1, Jalan Indrahana 1, Kuchai Lama, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 11am to 7pm (Thursdays to Tuesdays) | Closed on Wednesdays
Contact: 011 3320 6680
Website | Facebook | Instagram

8. Rorru

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Fans of casual Japanese fare, check out Rorru, “Malaysia’s first hand roll bar”. Located in Publika Shopping Gallery, the modern restaurant and bar is characterised by quirky neon signs and an edgy atmosphere that really comes to life at night. Aside from its respectable range of hand rolls, there’s also a variety Japanese snacks like gyoza, as well as fresh-cut sashimi. Sake is also available as a pairing option or a la carte.

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Address: Lot 35, Level G2 Block C5 Publika Shopping Gallery, Jln Dutamas 1, Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 11am to 2am daily
Contact: 018 322 2882
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Find more #BUROEats here.

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Lifestyle
Chefs with ‘Michelin Stars’ reveal what their world is like in a new documentary
“Michelin is everything”

07.09.2017
By Rachel Au

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Whether you’re a foodie or not, any chef or restaurant branded with one (or more) Michelin stars is sure to catch your attention. The Michelin Guide books by the French tire company of the same name have been published for more than a century and each year, there are some who gain a star and some who loses one, if not, all. But what lies beneath the glory (and sometimes controversy) of being crowned one of the best restaurants in the country?

Michelin Stars: Tales From the Kitchen is a new documentary that aims to expose the “greatness and flaws of Guide Michelin” while revealing a “realistic understanding of life behind the often airbrushed scenes” of the restaurant industry, as written in the film’s description.

To achieve this, Danish filmmaker Rasmus Dinesen followed 15 Michelin starred chefs from around the world—Alain Ducasse, Daniel Humm, René Redzepi, Andoni Aduriz, Yoshihiro Narisawa, Victor Arquinzoniz, Guy Savoy and many others—over a period of two years.

Michelin Stars: Tales From The Kitchen will premiere at the San Sebastián International Film Festival in Spain on 23 September 2017. We’re definitely adding this to our watch list.

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A Michelin star dining experience with Chef Alfredo Russo at The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

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Lifestyle
Vanessa Bryant files wrongful death lawsuit against helicopter company, Lady Gaga drops a new single and more entertainment news

02.03.2020
By Charmaine Loh

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Hello, pop culture junkies! Welcome back to Pop Culture Catch-Up where we bring you everything you need to know in the pop culture scene that happened over the week. This week’s headlines include Lady Gaga releases new single, Stupid Love, and the cast of Friends reunites for a one-off special on HBO Max.

Harvey Weinstein found guilty of two counts of sex crimes

Regarded as the fallen titan of Hollwood, Harvey Weinstein has been convicted for two out of five counts of rape and sexual assault in New York—one count of third-degree rape and one count of criminal sexual assault in the first degree. He will face up to 29 years in jail and is required to register as a sex offender. The sentencing has been scheduled for March 11.
The other three counts that he was acquitted of were more serious charges that could have put him behind bars for life—predatory sexual assault involving two women and one count of first-degree rape. Despite not being convicted of those charges, Weinstein’s attorneys stated that they are dissapointed in the verdict and will be filing an appeal.
The former movie producer will also face rape and sexual assault charges in Los Angeles, though the trial date has yet to be set. Reports say that he may face the possibility of another 28 years in jail if convicted.

Vanessa Bryant sues helicopter company in Kobe Bryant crash

Vanessa Bryant, widow of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, is suing Island Express Helicopters for the helicopter crash that killed her husband and daughter. Besides the owner of the helicopter, the lawsuit also targets the pilot (who also died in the crash) Ara Zobayan’s representative or successor.
It was filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court on the same morning a public memorial service for Kobe and Gianna Bryant was held at the Staples Center. According to Los Angeles Times, the wrongful death lawsuit alleges that Kobe Bryant died “as a direct result of the negligent conduct of Zobayan” for which “the company is vicariously liable in all respects”.
It further claims that Zobayan was negligent in eight different ways—including failing to properly assess the weather, flying into conditions he wasn’t cleared for, and failing to control the helicopter.

Lady Gaga releases music video for new single, Stupid Love

Lady Gaga‘s new single, Stupid Love, off her highly anticipated sixth studio album—rumored to be titled Chromatica—is finally here. The song was released along with it’s official music video which has already amassed more than one million views in less than five hours since its release.
In an interview with Zane Lowe on his New Music Daily podcast on Apple Music, she mentioned that fans can expect upbeat songs that are dance-worthy—despite crying constantly throughout the process of making the album. While waiting for her new album to drop, check out her new single Stupid Love above.

It’s official: Friends reunion is confirmed

Fans of Friends, rejoice! 16 years after the American sitcom’s heartfelt finale, Jennifer Aniston, Courtney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer will officially reunite for an unscripted, one-off special exclusively on HBO Max. The highly anticipated reunion is set to premiere on HBO’s upcoming streaming service this May, but no release date has been announced just yet.
Kevin Reilly, CCO of HBO Max confirmed to Variety that along with the upcoming special, HBO Max—which also debuts in May—with have all 236 episodes of Friends for subscribers to stream.

In The Now releases debut single, Fool

Up and coming Singaporean electro-pop/R&B band, In The Now just dropped their debut single, Fool, under Singapore-based indie record label, Umami Records. Fool combines dark melancholic synths and dreamy electronic pads to tell a story about unrequited love.
The band comprises four teenage friends and classmates—producer and vocalist Dan Rafael, vocalists Akmal Hussein, Rahmat Damansari and Alex Gryffin. While completing their tertiary education, they are currently working on an EP of six songs which will be released this year.

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Watches
3 Special edition Chopard Happy Hearts, 3 great causes to support

05.07.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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Aside from sustainability, another set of core values that sits dear to Chopard’s heart is that of giving and generosity. Understanding and dedicating its influence to serve philanthropic commitments, the Maison prove that ‘little diamonds do great things’, as it creates three special editions of the iconic Happy Hearts bangles in support of important causes.

Find out about the charities and its corresponding Happy Hearts bangle here:
All Hands and Hearts – Smart Response
Founded by supermodel Petra Nemcova, All Hands and Hearts – Smart Response helps rebuild safe, resilient schools in areas impacted by natural disasters. This beautiful Happy Hearts bangle in rose gold with a red heart was created in 2015, and since supported the rebuilding of three schools, turning 695 students’ dreams of going back to school into reality.

Naked Heart Foundation
Another model initiative, Natalia Vodianova’s Naked Heart Foundation is on a mission to build an inclusive society open to children with special needs, through encouraging play and creation of free support services for children of all ages and abilities. To help fund the foundation, Chopard created a Happy Hearts bangle with an exquisite pink mother-of-pearl heart, available in white and rose gold editions.

Education Above All
Set up in 2012 by Her Highness Skeikha Moza bint Nasser, this noble foundation seeks to sustainably improve human, social and economic conditions worldwide through education. A little different from the other Happy Hearts, this special edition bangle features an ‘Educate a Child’ circle charm, also available in white and rose gold.
The special edition Happy Hearts bangles are available in Chopard boutiques worldwide. Part of the proceeds will be donated to the respective charitable organisations.

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Fashion
Just in: Maxwell Osborne and Dao-Yi Chow to exit DKNY
A short tenure

02.12.2016
By Wei Yeen Loh

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After less than two years at the helm of DKNY and injecting it with ’90s streetwear nuances that reverberated with the brand’s former glory, co-creative directors Maxwell Osborne and Dao-Yi Chow are stepping down in light of Donna Karan International’s sale to G-III Apparel Group Ltd from LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton.

“Given the company sale and subsequent change in strategies, we have decided to step down and focus on our own business Public School. It’s been an unbelievable experience to work side by side with the wonderful people at DKNY, especially our amazing design team and atelier. We wish the company success in the future,” says a statement issued by the pair here.

Osborne and Chow’s first outing with the label was Spring 2016, where their riffs on the power suit with deconstructed elements and bold shoulders made more sense with the present day independent woman. While some scoffed the outing as nothing revolutionary, it was evident that the duo respected the ethos of the house without veering too much towards their edgy Public School aesthetic. A year later however, the collections were punctuated with exactly that via punchy silhouettes and oversized sweatshirts with the logomania trend in mind.

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Lifestyle
7 Things to do this weekend: 18 & 19 March 2023
Rewrite your routine

18.03.2023
By Kye Lin Lung

Featured image by KLPAC

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7 Things to do in the Klang Valley this weekend: 15 & 16 July 2023

Shake up your routine this weekend! You can learn how to craft new drinks, shop for cute knick knacks at a bazaar, or dance the night away at the cool parties we’ve picked out for this BURO Weekend Guide. Scroll down to see the interesting events to check out from 18 to 19 March 2023!

1. Rewrite the night with Monkey Shoulder

When: 17 – 18 March 2023
Time: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Where: Factory 19, Section 19, Petaling Jaya
Experienced one too many dull nights out? Break the monotony and try something new with Monkey Shoulder at the Rewrite The Night event happening at Factory 19 PJ from 17 March to 18 March, between 3pm to 12am. Known for its 100 per cent malt whisky that’s made for mixing, Monkey Shoulder stays true to its DNA by bringing together the city’s most exceptional bartenders, DJs, and F&B brands to provide a weekend full of funky tunes, delicious cocktails, and playful activities. Let Monkey Shoulder show you how to have a good time like a pro with these activities:
Monkey tunes
Groove from 3pm to midnight to a killer DJ lineup that includes Blink, Ashley Lau, Bate, Bunga, Jonny Vicious, Rimka, Roshan Menon, San, The Choobs and Ramsey Westwood—each bringing a mix of disco, funk, techno, house, EDM and plenty more.
Fun and play
Have some whisky with brunch at the Monkey Laundromat Cafe, where you can sip on Monkey Shoulder Mimosas and nosh on fresh bagels. Alternatively, challenge your friends to a game of mini golf to stand a chance to win some refreshing slushy cocktails. Then, hit the vinyl store where CoffeeBoy Club has mixed up some coffee whisky cocktails for your caffeine fix.
Cocktails and treats
Have a tipple of the unique cocktails made by the talented Darwin Ng (Winner of Monkey Shoulder’s 2022 Ultimate Bartender Championship) and Ho Boon Leong (Winner of Monkey Shoulder’s 2019 Ultimate Bartender Championship). Also, check out cult ice cream brand Licky Chan, popular burger chain MyBurgerLab, the ever-evolving Coffeeboy Club and He.nut bakery for some tasty treats.
For more updates, follow Monkey Shoulder on Instagram.

2. Bring your loved ones to the Pretty Please Bazaar

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When: 17 – 18 March 2023
Time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Where: Level G, The School, Jaya One, Petaling Jaya
It’s time to pamper your partner so they can spoil you with some retail therapy at the Pretty Please Bazaar at Jaya One this weekend. Trust us, it’s going to be hard to just window shop when there’s a wide selection of knick-knacks such as handmade goods, candles, cakes and accessories.
For more updates, follow The Rows Market on Instagram.

3. Party to hip-hop music and graffiti at the Planet Graffiti Pop-up

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When: 18 March 2023
Time: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Rex Hall, REXKL, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Hip-hop isn’t just music; it’s a mentality. It represents a certain style. It’s art. Soak in the hip-hop culture from local rappers, DJs and graffiti artists at the Planet Graffiti Pop-Up by The Messy Club x REXKL. Access to live music and the market is free. There’s more in store, but we’ll leave that for you to find out.
For more updates, follow The Messy Club or REXKL on Instagram.

4. Travel the world with Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra
Photo by MPO
When: 18 March 2023
Time: 11:30 AM (Duration: 60 minutes)
Tickets: RM108, RM128, RM188, RM228, Suite RM258/seat, RM288/seat
Where: Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, Level 2, Tower Two, Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Travel the world within the halls of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra as conductor Gerard Salonga takes you on an exotic voyage of musical rhythms, melodies and hymns of the world. Experience diverse cultures and composers through a common language—the sound of music.
Purchase your tickets and view concert programme details here. For more updates, follow Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra on Instagram.

5. Have a splashing good time at Ayu Awana by Zouk

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When: Saturday & Sunday, 18 – 19 March 2023
Time: 3:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Where: Resorts World Awana, 69000, Genting Highlands, Pahang
What could be more fun than a weekend at Ayu Awana by Zouk? Imagine lush surroundings and crystal clear waters coupled with beats from Lost Tales x Sweatbox—it’s going to be an unforgettable club pool party experience with your friends. You’ll want to start planning your party outfits now!
Follow Lost Tales Entertainment for upcoming events on Instagram.

6. Catch the ‘Shakespeare Demystified: Macbeth’ play at KLPAC

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When: Saturday, 8 March | 8:30 PM, Sunday, 19 March | 3:00 PM
Where: Pentas 2, KLPAC,  Jln Sultan Azlan Shah, Sentul, 51100, Kuala Lumpur
Even after 450 years, the themes and characters of Macbeth still resonate strongly. Watch Shakespeare Demystified: Macbeth—a show presented by KL Shakespeare Players & TAS Seni Teater Rakyat, which captures one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies. With themes of black magic, murders and political intrigue, this show seeks to display the battle between good and evil in the human heart.
Purchase your tickets and read more details here. For more updates, follow The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre on Instagram.

7. Shop for your fur babies at the After One Paw Paw Market

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When: Saturday & Sunday, 18 & 19 March 2023
Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Where: After One Cafe, 1, Persiaran Lidcol, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, Kuala Lumpur
Dedicate this weekend to your fur kid(s) by bringing them out for some tail-wagging quality time at the Paw Paw Bazaar, the first-ever pet market organised by After One Cafe. There will be yummy snacks and accessories for sale, and most importantly, other furry friends! Local NGOs TNRM Malaysia and Furrykids Safe Haven will also be there, so drop by to show your support and kindness to this close-knit animal-loving community.
For more updates, follow After One Cafe on Instagram.

Find more BURO Weekend Guides here.

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Collections
Watch the Hermès Men’s Spring/Summer 2021 livestream here

05.07.2020
By Joan Kong

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The first digital Paris Men’s Fashion Week is officially kicking off. Hermès, in particular, will be showing a live performance to unveil its Spring/Summer 2021 presentation, created by its menswear artistic director Véronique Nichanian in collaboration with French film and theatre director Cyril Teste.
Watch the Hermès Men’s Spring/Summer 2021 show from the comfort of your own home on Sunday, July 5, at 8pm:

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Trends
The street style guide to wearing red-on-red this Chinese New Year

10.01.2022
By Joan Kong

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If you celebrate Chinese New Year, you know the drill: the month before the new year is the time to hunt for red clothing, but often times, you’ll find yourself wearing the darkest shade besides black. While we can always count on the fiery hue to add that statement-making factor to the simplest of looks, when it comes to mix-and-matching, dark, neutral colours are fail-proof. But if you’d like to champion the colour of good fortune and joy for the Year of the Tiger, here are some trendy street style inspirations that will take your ensembles up a notch. These stylistas let the bold shade take centre stage by incorporating not one, but two (and more) pieces into their look. The result? Striking and trendy outfits that are not too overpowering for your reunion dinners and house visits.
The easiest way to start piling on the reds is with the help of accessories. Whether it’s a pair of heels or a bag, the matching hue will elevate the statement-making factor, although the micro arm candies in look 4 and 10 are already great conversation-starters on their own. If you’re confident with the colour, try experimenting with different print combinations—look 1’s stripe-on-stripe get-up and look 8’s rainbow separates will uplift your day, for sure. And lastly, to take everything one step further, throw in some contrasting colours to seal the get-ups with added interest. Some colours to experiment with? Lavender, silver, mustard, and dark green.
Here, the best red-on-red looks for your CNY style inspo:

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Fashion
Salvatore Ferragamo to go coed for Autumn/Winter 2018
All for unity

27.11.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Salvatore Ferragamo will be showing both the women’s and men’s collections in one show this coming February for the Autumn/Winter 2018 season. Following the footsteps of other Milan-based labels including Gucci and Bottega Veneta, this decision is “in line with the brand’s strategy to ensure that the women’s and men’s collections reflect a consistent message in a market requiring an ever stronger and well-defined positioning,” as stated in the official press release.

The February show also marks the debut ready-to-wear collection from new creative director of women’s collections Paul Andrew. Previously the footwear director of the brand, he was appointed to his new role earlier this October following lukewarm response towards former women’s creative director Fulvio Rigoni’s collection in September 2016. While the decision to go coed isn’t novel in the industry, it is an indication that the Florentine label has major plans to synergise all collections for a more unified aesthetic that better represents its 90-year heritage. Other brands that are also going coed for the upcoming Autumn/Winter 2018 season include Etro, Gucci, and Jil Sander.

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Fashion
Balenciaga teams up with the World Food Programme
Giving back

05.03.2018
By Joan Kong

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

A scroll through Balenciaga’s AW18 show and you’ll notice the World Food Programme-branded pieces that were sent down the runway—T-shirts, baseball caps and fanny packs were printed with the WFP logo and “Saving Lives, Changing Lives” slogan. And now, the brand has made it official: it’s teaming up with the World Food Programme to fight global hunger, and the partnership aims to “draw attention to the recent spike in global hunger and to support global efforts to end it by 2030”. Committed to making a positive change, to date, Balenciaga has donated over $250,000 to the organisation, and from August 25 this year to February 1 next year, it’ll donate 10% of the retail price of each WFP-branded piece that is sold in stores, online and via business partners to charity.

Speaking of the collaboration, Balenciaga’s creative director Demna Gvasalia says, “We consider this partnership with The World Food Programme to be an important step in making fashion useful in a different way and supporting good causes with our products whenever possible.”

Click here for more details.

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Features
NYFW SS19: 10 Street style-approved ways to wear leopard print

08.09.2018
By Joan Kong

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Leopard prints are back, and we saw it coming. It may only be day 2 of New York Fashion Week, but the animal (motif) has been spotted out and about on the sidewalks in the autumn heat. You can count on the bold print to give a statement-making finish regardless how you style it, and these street style mavens proved just that. While most stylistas opted to keep cool and effortless in midi dresses, we love how each of them gave the outfits that extra zest. Carolina Issa (in look 1), for example, finished off her look with an extra dose of leopard print in the form of a tote; we like look 7’s frilly frock and Doc Marten boots combo, and the lady in look 8 who shows how you can wear your party dress during the daytime. Some of our other favourites include look 4’s fuss-free ensemble that gave off a hint of safari vibe, and look 5’s pantsuit look which we’ll definitely be rocking next.

Here, all the leopard print looks spotted during New York Fashion Week so far:
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Art + Design
Want: The 60th Anniversary edition of Arne Jacobsen’s Egg chair
Icon-egg

04.04.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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Designed by Arne Jacobsen for Copenhagen’s SAS Royal Hotel (now known as Radisson Blu Hotel) in 1958, the Egg chair is easily one of the most recognisable designer chairs of all time; timeless and elegant, with distinctive curves that carry an air of modernism. To celebrate its 60th anniversary, manufacturer Fritz Hansen has enhanced the Egg chair with exclusive materials. Grounded by a base of 23-karat gold-coated aluminium, the special edition lounge chair is covered in luxurious leather in a soft coral hue that will age with grace, obtaining a more vintage look with time.
Along with the Egg chair, Jacobsen also designed the Swan and the Drop chairs for the hotel back then. For its milestone anniversary, the Swan chair takes after the Egg in the same beautiful leather. The more minimalist Drop chair, on the other hand, is upholstered in structured Sera wool fabric in a neutral grey-brown shade.
All three special edition chairs will feature a 60th anniversary leather engraving with numbering. The Egg and Swan chairs will be limited to just 1958 pieces each, a homage to the year they were created, while the Drop chair will be available in stores until 31 December 2018.

Fancy an Egg chair in your home? Head to Xtra Furniture at The Gardens Mall, KL.

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Food + Drink
On the kombucha train – what is it, how does it benefit you, and more

17.07.2019
By Gwen Ong

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As far as fad trends go, health drink is one that has lasted with a cult following. From the advent of orange juice to green tea, soymilk and more, there seems to be an endless flow of choices. The surge in wellness drinks in the market means that we’re just one sip away from gaining the promises of a better health. One such drink is kombucha. But what exactly is it and how does it benefit you? We speak to Joseph Poh, the founder of Malaysia’s very own kombucha drink WonderBrew, for the lowdown.
1. What is kombucha?
Kombucha, or booch as the millennials call it, is a fermented tea naturally rich in probiotics, antioxidants, organic acids and enzymes that are beneficial to gut health. It is mainly made of four key ingredients including filtered water, cane sugar, tea leaves and SCOBY (symbiotic colony of bacterial and yeast). It is produced via a traditional fermentation process that results in a bubbly, slightly sweet and tart drink with taste similar to apple cider vinegar. Its origin is reported to be from China in 220 BCE during the Tsin Dynasty when it was deemed the elixir of life.
2. Your co-founder, Boon, mentioned in an article that kombucha is actually not new to Malaysians – or at least, the older generation of Malaysians. Can you elaborate more on that?
Indeed, kombucha has been around for more than a decade in Malaysia. It is not entirely unheard of but many are still in the dark about kombucha. Those who knew about it most probably have tried it from their friends or brew it by themselves at home. Known as ‘cendawan mekah’ locally, many learnt to make this alien-looking drink in jars at home from their friends or parents. In a way, the recipes are being passed on from one another. Many drink it for its purported probiotic benefits and actually share it with their family members. It was extremely rare and hard to find a widely and commercially available kombucha then. Even now, local choices are limited and perhaps that it is why kombucha is still under-recognised until today.
3. Benefits of drinking kombucha?
Kombucha is well-known as a great source of probiotics and many drink to improve digestion. Despite insufficient scientific studies and lack of clinical evidence, other common benefits of drinking kombucha include:

Improved immune system
Better mental health
Detoxification
Enhanced energy level
Better weight management
Lower risk of heart disease

4. Why is having a healthy gut so important? Do you think people underestimate the importance of gut health?
Today, a healthy gut microbiome has become even more important than ever that if it’s not well taken care of, one’s health is very likely to be in jeopardy. More and more people are starting to suffer from gut-related illnesses like IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and functional bowel problems (i.e. constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, stomach upset), both of which stem from the highly modified and processed food and drinks today, environment pollution, work stress, etc.
Ample clinical studies have shown that a healthy gut can enhance one’s immune system function, improve symptoms of depression, help combat obesity and provide other benefits. There are also studies on the gut-brain connection that shows people with good gut health tend to have better mental health as well.
It is hard to generalise but I can see the increasing awareness of the importance of good gut health in Malaysia. Many people that I know are actually on some form of probiotics products, be it supplements, fermented food or drinks. As an important health trend moving forward, I believe more and more people will prioritise gut health as part of their lifestyle.
5. What’s a common misconception about kombucha?
Many actually think that kombucha is an alcoholic drink due to fermentation. While it is true that alcohol (i.e. ethanol) is produced naturally as part of the process, it is usually below 0.5% ABV, a level so insignificant that it is unable to intoxicate your mind or drive you to drunkenness. In fact, it is just the same as any other fermented products such as kimchi, miso soup, sauerkraut, soy sauce, which contain trace amount of alcohol naturally. There is no added alcohol and only naturally occurring alcohol found commonly in fruits. In short, it is safe to consume kombucha without having to worry about getting tipsy or drunk.
6. As it’s a fermented drink, not everyone would enjoy that fizzy, sour taste. Any tips for people who are interested to try but intimidated by the taste?
Many were hesitant to drink when they first smell kombucha. However, the reactions usually changed favourably after taking a sip. Many actually find the taste of kombucha surprisingly pleasant and nothing like how it actually smells like.
Not all kombucha is created equal. Having tasted different kombucha in the market that are mostly fizzy and very sour, WonderBrew Kombucha was founded to create something different. We want a kombucha that is easy-to-drink and suitable for the local taste buds.
For first timers, we have the lightest entry called Lite Green (green tea kombucha) to kick-start your kombucha journey with. For those who are more adventurous and want more flavour, we have our Markisa Breeze (passion fruit & spearmint), Purple Pari Pari (bluepea flower & lemongrass) and Beet It (beet root & basil) all of which will definitely change your perception about drinking kombucha. At WonderBrew, we surely have something for everyone!

7. There’s an understanding that, for example, Yakult should be taken once a day, every day – what about kombucha? What’s the recommended intake?
For first timers or people who have never taken probiotics before, it is good to start off by taking half a bottle (i.e.150ml) of our WonderBrew Kombucha to test your body reactions. You may even mix with water to dilute it a bit if you wish. If your body feels all right over the next few hours, then you may slowly increase your consumption to a bottle a day. However, if distress symptoms appear, you should reduce the amount to a level that your body can take it. In short, start off with small amount and slowly increase to the amount that you find comfortable with.
8. We hear that pregnant/breastfeeding women should not take kombucha – is it true? If so, why? And are there anyone else who should be wary of kombucha?
It is always advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult doctor before drinking kombucha just to be on the safe side. Young kids and people who are alcohol intolerant should also seek medical advice before drinking. However, drinking moderately in small amount should be fine, if permissible by doctors.
9. Now let’s talk about WonderBrew Kombucha – how did it all come about?
It was purely by coincidence that I learnt about kombucha in September 2018 from my friend and now partner, Adam, who had a very positive feedback after trying it in Bali. Didn’t know much about it but I was hooked on the supposed probiotic benefits that kombucha has that could potentially improve my poor gut health.
One fine day, I happened to stumble upon kombucha while shopping at a local grocery. I decided to try one and instantly fell in love at first sip with the surprisingly good taste! After much online research, I signed up for a kombucha brewing workshop conducted by my second partner, Boon, who has a good eight years of experience making kombucha. I started drinking for a week and felt great with enhanced energy level and better bowel movements. That gave me confidence and intrigued me to delve into kombucha.
10. How did this translate to a business opportunity?
As a consumer, I discovered three key pain points in the market that have been deterring the growth of kombucha in Malaysia. It is really difficult to find 1) value for money and 2) great tasting kombucha, as well as 3) lack of easy access to kombucha in general. There are not many places offering kombucha and in groceries, one can only find a handful of brands of which majority is being imported from countries like Australia and USA. Most brands are priced steeply at RM15 and above for a bottle which is a great turn-off for many first-timers. Lastly, many have recipes and taste profiles developed for foreigners, which may not be tantalising to local taste buds.
Centring on these three key factors, I founded WonderBrew with Adam and Boon in November 2018 hoping to solve these problems for all the existing and upcoming fans of kombucha in Malaysia.

11. What sets WonderBrew Kombucha apart from the rest?
WonderBrew Kombucha is a brand founded by Malaysians for Malaysians. It is a lifestyle beverage brand that is more than just selling healthy drinks. We have a big dream to empower people to become a healthier, happier and better version of themselves, starting from a healthier gut!
WonderBrew is founded to make affordable, great tasting Kombucha available to the masses. Our flavours are locally inspired, locally sourced from organic farms and of course, locally crafted as well. Besides, WonderBrew is also about being a sustainable business. All our raw ingredient wastes are composted and we incentivise customers to recycle glass bottles with us.
Hence, when you are holding a bottle of WonderBrew Kombucha, you are not only endorsing a home-grown brand, you are also supporting local farmers and the green movement.
12. It’s been more than half a year since WonderBrew Kombucha started – what were some of the major challenges you faced?
As a new start-up, we are greatly restricted by the limited resources we have to grow our business. As a result, we are more cautious when it comes to spending our resources albeit the many plans we have for WonderBrew. We plan and prioritise our goals to achieve a healthy and sustainable growth. We are very much about self-sustaining from cash flow generated from sales.
Another big challenge that we face, just like in many traditional businesses, is our cash flow. Being in the supplying business, our payment from cash sales may not be immediately available especially in the case of consignment, which often include our cash being tied up for an average of 30-40 days. Hence, this makes planning ahead even more important to us.
Being a start-up means sometimes you may have to do everything by yourself even though you are not an expert in it. Currently, we are running on an eight-men team and despite each of us having our own role, we do not mind to go beyond that to help each other out. Personally, I enjoy and learn so much from my partners when we are working together.
13. Upcoming plans for WonderBrew Kombucha for 2019?
As part of our mission to bring kombucha to the masses, we have an aim to be in 100 locations by the end of 2019 by expanding into groceries, organic shops, fitness centres, cafes, convenient stores and offices, just to name a few. In the next few months, we should be available in other cities as well such as Penang, Ipoh and Johor Bahru. Concurrently, we are also expanding our online delivery services by partnering with reputable brands like GrabFood and Foodpanda so that more people can enjoy our kombucha with just a click away.
Rapid expansion aside, we are also making sure our product quality and safety is maintained and up to standard by investing in better equipment and facilities. To give customers more confidence, we are glad to say that we are in the midst of applying for Halal Certification, which we expect to be ready by 2019.
To constantly innovate is part of WonderBrew’s DNA. We are always looking out for new recipes and conducting R&D to create unique flavour that will surprise and tantalise your taste buds. In fact, we have two more new flavours coming this year. So, stay tuned for them!
Find out more about WonderBrew Kombucha here.

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Food + Drink
Food review: 5 Dishes to try from Mandarin Grill’s new menu for 2020

19.11.2020
By Ronn Tan

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When Mandarin Grill reopened in 2019 with a refreshed menu and appearance, the restaurant garnered quite a reputation. Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur’s signature restaurant appointed Chef de Cuisine Luigi Stinga from two Michelin star restaurant, Seta, in Mandarin Oriental Milan to enforce Mandarin Grill’s new direction in serving Italian cuisine. In addition, the interiors were refreshed with a stylish yet casual setting. The botanical elements stood out with light green and turquoise colours acting as extensions of the lush greenery from KLCC Park.
After a long delay amid the Covid-19 pandemic and the Movement Control Order (MCO), Mandarin has officially reopened on 11 November 2020. This time, Mandarin Grill will feature an all-new menu following Chef de Cuisine Luigi Stinga’s gastronomic exploration of local and Asian cuisines. If you read my review of the previous menu, you’ll definitely notice the differences between both sets of offerings. While the former consists of highlights from Chef Luigi’s repertoire, the latter showcases his expertise and flair—brilliantly fusing flavours of the east and west.
Here are the five dishes you need try from Mandarin Grill’s new menu for 2020:

Antipasti
Uovo Crema Di Scamorza, Scorza Nera E Tartufo

You know you’re all set for a great meal when you begin with a dish that looks this exquisite. The slow-cooked organic egg—served with smoked scarmorza cream and fresh black truffle—is a delicate yet refreshing starter. In addition to the softness of the cream that goes really well with the added crunch from deep-fried salsify, the addition of fresh black truffle shavings brought extra depth.
Every scoop is akin to tasting the galaxy and its otherworldly intricacies. Already light and smooth on the palate, the presence of purple sweet potato, green kale, and brown burnt shallot powders added grandeur—with both taste and sight.
Primi
Cappelletto Ripieno Di ‘Beef Rendang’

Chef Luigi Stinga had the opportunity to learn more about local flavours during the past few months—and this particular dish is the result of his culinary exploration. Served with an aromatic beef and mushroom broth, the homemade cappelletti is filled with beef rendang for a localised take on Italian cuisine. Take sips of the light yet savoury broth and be transported to the Italian countryside. Think Under The Tuscan Sun or A Room With A View.
The beef is gently spiced; providing hints of heat. An interesting marriage of gastronomic identities, the beef rendang pasta dumplings are worth trying whenever you dine at Mandarin Grill.
Paste
Tagliolini Alla Chitarra Cacio E Pepe Con Ricci Di Mare

Did someone say sea urchin on pasta? Chef Luigi’s take on the classic Italian pasta dish, Cacio E Pepe, is served with exactly that. Already seasoned really well with pecorino cheese and black pepper, the addition of sea urchin is interesting. This dish—with fresh handmade tagliolini that’s prepared al dente—is a massively contemporary twist on traditional Italian fare.
Without completely taking away the down-to-earth essence of nonna‘s cooking, the pasta is light yet piquant and simple yet powerful. If you’re searching for something unusually different for both your mind and palate, you’ve found one.
Secondi
Agnello Su Crema Di Cipollotto, Patate E Limone Nero

This lamb loin dish—with roasted white spring onion as well as pureed and roasted potatoes—is another dish you need to add to your list of must-haves at Mandarin Grill. Dusted with black lemon powder for hints of smoky citrus, the slow-cooked meat isn’t just immensely tender but also really easy on the palate. For a dish that’s usually heavy, kudos to Chef Luigi for concocting one that’s surprisingly lush yet delicate.
You get a ambitious yet successful amalgamation of a variety of strong ingredients. The presence of the black lemon from the definitely toned down the gaminess of the lamb. For an elevated experience, pair your lamb with a glass (or two) of Bolgheri Rosso DOC—a blend of Cabernet (both Sauvignon and Franc) and Merlot.
Dolci
Tiramisu

There’s always room for dessert at Mandarin Grill—especially if the dessert is Chef Luigi’s very own take on the universally-loved Tiramisu. On first glance, the beautifully-plated dessert resembles a yet-to-be-named planet; exuding palatable outer space vibes. Think of the sponge as majestic hills. Thanos might even want to give this a go!
The Tiramisu—served with coffee cream, mascarpone, and cocoa powder—isn’t just pleasing on the eyes. Lighter than traditional creations, the dessert is airy and buoyant. Even better, the sweetness is toned down; allowing you to truly savour the flavour profiles of different ingredients. This will be an immaculate finale to any meal.

Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday (12pm – 2pm and 6pm – 10.30pm)
Contact: 03 2330 8798 or [email protected]
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Food + Drink
Hawker or haute: The best Malaysian dishes at two very different price points
Posh nosh and cheap eats

31.08.2017
By Alyssa Lee

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The passion that burns in our bellies can drive us to laude Malaysian food over similar dishes from neighbouring lands. Even within our own turf, conversations on where to find the best version of the local favourites can get a little heated .

Purists might argue that only curbside concoctions can authentically represent a dish while citing the sweat and grime as invaluable parts of the experience. We must admit that many of our go-to craving fixes are at famous hawker stores but we won’t be too quick to discount an elevated version of a beloved local meal either. Consider this: Paying higher prices would often allow a restaurant to purchase better ingredients, pour in more time, creativity and finesse into the preparation and cater for an extra-special dining affair.

Here are just a few of Malaysian favourites in two different versions: haute and hawker. Time to taste for yourselves to see which will prevail. Don’t knock it till you try it.

1. The asam laksa from the Klang outpost of the famous original Ayer Itam legend or the crustacean-topped version at the hottest chino latino bar in town, Mr. Chew’s

RESTAURANT ANGCLE PEOH
Address: 42, Lorong Batu Nilam 21B, Bandar Bukit Tinggi 2, Klang
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun (9am-9pm)
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MR CHEW’S CHINO LATINO BAR & RESTAURANT
Address: The Penthouse, Wolo Hotel, Corner of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun (11.30am-3pm, 6pm-1am)
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2. The perpetually packed Village Park nasi lemak or the achingly moreish nasi lemak risotto at the new café on the block, The Other Half

VILLAGE PARK
Address: No. 5, Jalan SS21/37, Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat (7am-7.30pm), Sun (7am-6pm)
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THE OTHER HALF
Address: Unit 2-1, Greens Terrace, No.1 Jalan Wan Kadir 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri (7.30am-5.30pm), Sat to Sun (9am-5.30pm)
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3. The sinfully glistening chunks of char siew from Toast & Roast or the magically crafted block from Babe

TOAST & ROAST
Address: No. 20, Jalan SS2/72, Petaling Jaya
Opening Hours: Wed to Mon (8.30am-4pm)
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BABE—JAPAS FUN DINING @ CLEARWATER
Address: 11th Floor, Changkat Semantan, Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Tues to Thur (6pm-10.30pm), Fri to Sat (6pm-11.30pm), Sun (6pm-10.30pm)
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4. The fresh-off-the-wok sang har meen from Sang Kee or the decadant lobster scene-stealer from Pince & Pints

SANG KEE
Address: No.5, Lorong Yap Ah Loy, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat (11am-3pm)

PINCE & PINTS
Address: No 32, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri (5.30pm-11.30pm), Sat to Sun (11.30am-11.30pm)
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5. The authentic blue-tinged rice served with a plethora of tresures at Chunburi or the ultra-fine banana flower kerabu housed in a coconut by Dewakan

CHUNBURI

Address: Chunburi Seafood Restaurant, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun (12pm-1am)

DEWAKAN RESTAURANT
Address: Lower Ground Floor KDU University College, Utropolis Glenmarie Jalan Kontraktor U1/14, Seksyen U1, 40150 Shah Alam
Opening Hours: Mon to Sat (6.30pm-10pm)
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6. The mouth-watering classic sweet and sour pork at Restoran Lek Lek or the conceptual Iberico tatare with sweet and sour yolk at Coquo

RESTORAN LEK LEK

Address: No. 12, Jalan PSK 4, Pusat Perdagangan SK, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun (11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm)

COQUO KL
Address: D1-G4-6, Solaris Dutamas (Publika), Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: Tue to Sun (6pm-12am)
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7. The pride and joy of Aunty Christina from Sarawak or the marron lobster Sarawak laksa of Isadora Chai’s invention at Antara

AUNTY CHRISTINA’S LAKSA
Address: No. 26, Jalan 21/19, Sea Park, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri (8.15am-3pm), Sat to Sun (8.15am-2.15pm)
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ANTARA RESTAURANT
Address: 2 Lorong Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun (12pm-3pm, 5pm-12am)
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5 Alternatives in KL to satisfy your desire for Nasi Lemak Burger
4 New bars in KL to help usher in the weekend

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Malaysian food
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