The Gourmet, Foodie and the Gourmand

Food + Drink
The Gourmet, Foodie and the Gourmand
Dropping superfluous terms

07.11.2015
By Buro247

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But it has never failed to bewilder me why people of a certain persuasion, the kind who fancy themselves to be epicures, can profess profound knowledge of food and wine whilst concomitantly proving themselves to be anything but erudite when they make the most fundamental of errors when describing themselves to acquaintances. I refer, if you haven’t already twigged, to the perennial tug of war that is the gourmet/gourmand discussion.

These days, the abuse of said terms has decreased somewhat, if only because a new word has emerged that has proven itself to be such a worthy successor of misuse that it has dethroned both gourmet and gourmand from their well-warmed seats. That word, foodie, is nowadays bandied about in gustatory conversations so liberally you’d be hard pressed to talk about cuisine and not hear it hurled about with nonchalance, much like a Chinese chef with his trusty MSG container when preparing a meal: “Oh, please don’t bring Tim along for the degustation. He isn’t a foodie and totally won’t get why we need to have a four hour lunch. I mean, duh, the chef has two Michelin stars for pete’s sake!” But just as we are well aware that a foodie is a person with a pronounced penchant for, and an intense interest in, food, who but the most impervious dolt would have the presence of mind (or lack thereof) to call themselves a ‘foodie’? After all, there is no more efficacious manner to discount your capabilities than by employing pretentious names like ‘foodie’ with which to describe yourself.

Which brings us to the whole gourmet/gourmand palaver. Back in the ’40s, when the Internet was probably only known as an abbreviation for a netball competition between schools, the confusion between the two words was understandable, because not every home was privy to ownership of the voluminous Encyclopaedia Brittanica. But today, when Google is more readily available than bad sex, what excuse is there to still imagine that gourmet and gourmand are synonyms? Let me elucidate: a gourmet is probably the foodie’s older brother. Someone who fancies himself as possessing such heightened senses that he can only eat the best.

Like his younger brother, the gourmet doesn’t seem to grasp that calling himself a gourmet makes him as much of a wanker as his foodie brother, but while the foodie is happy to orally despatch all manner of things gastronomic, the gourmet has essentially priced himself out of the market, so to speak. By declaring his sensorial finesse, he will be as welcome at dinner parties as a wolf at a lamb’s birthday party. Which self-respecting home cook would be silly enough to subject themselves to derision, when their food is inevitably declared as “acceptable, but a shadow of the ridiculously unctuous rare purple tuna that only breeds every leap year and whose flesh is so rapturous I had to beg the chef to tell me where he bought it”?

Then let’s not forget the connoisseur, another word that is deployed with much abandon here in Malaysia. Like the gourmet, the connoisseur is attuned to the finer gastronomic delicacies in life, but unlike the gourmet, the connoisseur has a sagacious knowledge of the fine food and drink with which she surrounds herself. How many of us can profess to be a connoisseur, no matter how well read or perspicacious we may like to think we are? Through the course of my life, I have made stupid decisions, but none so foolish as to describe myself as a foodie, gourmet, or connoisseur to friends or acquaintances, much less in the media.

No, I’m much cleverer than that. I’m just a gourmand, plain and simple, someone who takes a surfeit of pleasure in eating and drinking, and is untrammelled by the need to aspire to lofty culinary heights. Best of all, I know I’ll be welcomed at dinner parties with opened arms because I’ll be vociferous in my appreciation, and abstemious in my need to be a know-it-all.

Follow Fay on Twitter and Instagram at @misskhoo.

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Music
The Return of the Rainforest World Music Festival
Jungle beats

31.07.2015
By Buro247

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All the exciting live concerts in KL to look forward to in 2023

Located in the heart of the Borneo jungle, the event unites renowned musicians from around the globe, ranging from American folk music to African drummers and native performers, to present an array of talents from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Running since 1997, the event held at the Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching, attracts over 20,000 people from all corners of the world to dance and sing along to the lively music whilst being surrounded by the lush greenery of Sarawak. Beyond the evening performances, tourists and locals are invited to indulge in various music, art and cultural activities during the day, including mini concerts, jam sessions, ethno-musical lectures and workshops.
In addition to the multitude of happenings taking place from 7-9 August, the site is also packed with an assortment of food, drinks, arts and craft, as well as festive memorabilia, enabling visitors to truly taste and experience the tropical flavours of Malaysia.
Being one of the biggest festivals held in Malaysia, this is an event not-to-be missed. Let the countdown begin!

For more information visit the website.

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PFW SS16: Valentino

Fashion
PFW SS16: Valentino
Tribal princess

07.10.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

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

Last season’s Valentino show featuring Zoolander stars Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson gave critics and spectators alike reason to talk about, but this year it had to do with cultural notions which were a tad bit more controversial than intended—along with the impeccable couture-level craft displayed on the runway, of course.
Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli looked to tribal Africa for inspiration this season (something that resonated with the current ongoing political situation) while injecting a dose of couture romanticism with elaborate stitching and embroidery. There were tribal Maasai beading on necklines, majestic feathered sleeves and leather paneling in the front of dresses that evoke an armour-like countenance, and for an extra touch of etherealness, fringed silk over tulle column gowns that had silver bird motif embroidered beading all over. It takes a certain level of finesse to interlace cultural influences with Western silhouettes, and it shows that Chiuri and Piccioli have demonstrated it in the most refined manner possible.
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Watches
Celestial Being: Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Duometre Spherotourbillon Moon
In the stars

05.07.2015
By Kenneth Tan

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The Cartier Privé collection is about history and modernity

In Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Duometre Spherotourbillon Moon, the dance of celestial bodies is reimagined for the wrist. A rather clever addition of the 20-degree axis to the movement – to mirror the earth’s natural tilt – enables a hitherto unheard of precision in the moon phase. Once properly adjusted, this timepiece remains accurate in predicting the moon phase for 3,887 years.
“We have come the long and hard way on this,” says Daniel Riedo, CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre.  He alludes to over 180 years of heritage, savoir faire, as well as a self-contained manufacture staffed by 1,200 watchmaking experts. Of this number, ten percent of personnel are tasked to the creation of new novelties alone.

“To have this kind of precision on the moon phase with only four wheels, we had to put more intelligence in the movement than any other have before,” Riedo states. Fortunately, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s lessons from the past served in ensuring calculations, wheel engineering and tooth profile was precise. A new-generation laser cutting tool also enabled the manufacture to marry the highest technology with its hand craftsmanship of the final product. “This is the limit in terms of precision that we can do for now,” Riedo says.
In this year’s 42mm platinum reference of the spherotourbillon, the 476-part Calibre 389 runs on two barrels with 45 hours of power reserve. A grade 5 titanium tourbillon carriage takes only 30 seconds for a complete turn, twice as quick as run-of-the-mill tourbillons. Riedo views all of this as Jaeger-LeCoultre’s logical progression into translating time and celestial movement. “We do not develop tech for the sake of it. We approach with full view of history and heritage of the past,” he says. “We are authentic.”

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NYFW SS16: Tommy Hilfiger

Fashion
NYFW SS16: Tommy Hilfiger
Carribean crushing

15.09.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Inspired by the beaches of Mustique where Tommy Hilfiger himself and a host of other celebs lounge during summer, the label’s spring/summer designs brought the eclectic island life to New York City.
From floral brights (inspired by renowned texture artist Josef Frank) to Rastafarian prints in crocheted sundresses and billowy kaftans, it was tropical wanderlust brought to life with each piece presented on the runway.
Playing along with the reggae theme were the accessories—striped bucket hats, sneaker mules, layered espadrilles, beach totes and multicoloured beaded jewelry. If this collection doesn’t convince you to take the next plane out to where the sun and sand is, we don’t know what will.
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Skincare
Beauty Diaries: How I (mostly) cleared my hormonal acne after 10 years

22.04.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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Acne sucks and I hate it. Here’s how I got rid of it—and how you can too

I think it’s important to preface this piece with a little context: My skin has been through a lot. I’ve been struggling with hormonal acne since I was 11 and it has been a real journey (I’m 22 now, FYI, so we’re a good decade on).
Surprise, surprise: There aren’t any photos of my skin at its worst because 1) I hate taking selfies, 2) Teenage me did not have the foresight to document my skin journey when it was happening, and 3) Even if I did, I’m not sure I’d be comfortable sharing them on the void that is the internet. Sorry! You’ll have to make do with the slightly more recent selfies straight from the group chats. I don’t know if it’s obvious, but these were not taken with the goal of being shared. Whoops.
Now, my acne hasn’t been consistently soul-crushing the entire time. This is thanks to a mix of dermatologist-prescribed antibiotics, hormonal pills, two rounds of isotretinoin, and some antifungals (plus a few visits to an esthetician here and there). Medication and facials definitely helped to clear my breakouts for a time. That said, one way or another, my skin always found a way back to its equilibrium—AKA breakout central.

Did I mention that selfies aren’t my thing? I take it back. Just look at that. Gorgeous.
After doing a little digging, I found the root of the problem: My acne is intrinsically linked to my periods, and my periods are affected by my dysfunctional reproductive system (not something I really want to get into right now, but maybe another day). All in all, there’s a lot of nonsense going on down there, and it has spent the last decade of my life giving me grief from the inside out.
Thankfully, it only took me a decade, but I have finally worked out the pattern regarding my skin issues (the uterus issues are still TBC). In essence, my skin type is constantly changing and evolving (much to my exasperation). At the moment, the pattern looks something like this: In the two weeks leading up to my period, my skin behaves. At this point, it is bouncy, hydrated, and clear (or on its way to clearing up), bar a few scars and spots of hyperpigmentation leftover from my last breakout.
However, in the two weeks after my period, my skin is a combination nightmare. No matter how many hydrating serums or entire litres of water I throw at it, it will be overly oily (a sign of dehydration), yet also flaky and dry. Yes. Flaky. In addition to the texture, this time of the month is also often accompanied by minor clusters of breakouts on my forehead, my mouth, my jaw, and over my back and chest.
NOTE: Pre-isotretinoin (also known as Accutane), my breakouts were concentrated around my T-zone (nothing new there—a teenager with acne? Shocker). However, now, as I have approached adulthood (gross), the breakouts have migrated to areas that are more consistent with hormonal causes.

Pictured above: My skin during two different periods
READ: Acne face mapping: Our scientifically-backed guide to your breakouts
Sometimes they are small, baby breakouts that just add texture to my skin. Annoying, but manageable. Other times, they are inflamed pustules that seem to be perpetually at a head. Again, annoying, but manageable with some spot treating. At the worst times, they are huge, angry cysts that pop up with a vengeance, leaving scars whether I pop them or not. These are painful, but they usually crop up on my back, which means that the “out of sight, out of mind” approach is my go-to treatment plan. All in all, the breakouts I deal with now are nothing compared to the more consistently under-the-skin, cystic breakouts that I used to deal with, so I won’t complain.
READ: All the different types of acne, explained—and how to treat them
That said, I would be lying if I said that acne didn’t take a peg or two off my self-esteem for a long while. Regardless, my skin is finally at a point where I am happy with it (or I’ve just gotten too tired to care—the jury is still out on that one), and though it isn’t “perfect” by any means, I’m really not bothered anymore. As long as it looks good enough, eh?

Here is my skin on a good day, with the help of a little concealer and tinted moisturiser. As you can see, when my skin clears, the texture smoothes out and my skin actually looks great! Despite what you see on social media, foundation doesn’t cover up texture—it does, however, even out the skin tone and cover areas of hyperpigmentation. I haven’t edited the photo above, apart from increasing the shadows and sharpening the focus a little (so that you can see what my skin actually looks like).
Getting to this point required a lot of trial-and-error—emphasis on the error—but I’ve finally fine-tuned a routine that works for me… at least until my skin decides to reinvent itself again. Firstly, I do have to say that I attribute a lot of my progress to isotretinoin. I am fortunate enough to have had access to acne medication, and even more fortunate that it actually worked for me (we’ll get into this a little later on, though). On top of that, I’ve adopted a skincare routine that accommodates this routinely dramatic change in skin type, which has been integral to clearing and managing my skin.
Ahead, find all the things I learned on my quest to clear skin.
DISCLAIMER: What worked for my skin may not work for yours, and vice versa. I’m just putting this out there in case there’s something in here that could help someone else with their acne!
Stop squeezing

Image: Krave Beauty
Believe me—I get it. Like most people, I have an obsessive need to pick at anything on my face, and pus-filled pimples are the perfect victim. However, though this was excusable in 2012, it’s 2021 now. Do we really need to go through this again?
Squeezing your zits can lead to irreversible skin damage, especially when you’re not doing it right—and I can tell you now that you’re definitely not doing it right. If you really, really need an extraction, go to a professional. Fail to heed my advice and you’ll be looking at some permanent scarring.
READ: 9 Skincare mistakes you may be making, from using pore strips to bingeing on exfoliants
No more home remedies

Image: Pinterest
Okay, I’ve been here. I get it. I’ve panicked whenever a monster spot has cropped up in the middle of my face. I’ve been desperate to get rid of a big, unconcealable spot by any means necessary. I’ve pored over countless “home remedy” advice columns that recommend some concoction of toothpaste, lemon juice, pure tea tree oil, or vinegar for spots. Let’s just say that if it was on the internet in 2012-2016, I’ve tried it. Where did it leave me? Usually, worse off than where I started and, in the case of the vinegar, with a really nasty chemical burn.
Needless to say, home remedies are never a good idea. PS: Feeling “the tingle” or “the burn” doesn’t mean that the remedy is working—it means you’re damaging your skin and making matters worse.
Stop with the face scrubs

Image: Pinterest
Like most clueless teenagers, I was a huge fan of one particular apricot scrub. You know which one I’m talking about. In fact, it was my go-to skincare necessity for ages. Needless to say, it did more damage than good, and it is now banished from my bathroom vanity.
Instead of chunky face scrubs that leave your skin open to microabrasions and damage, opt for a fine-grain physical exfoliant that is uniform in shape and, therefore, more gentle. Personally, I found that the Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser worked wonders for me.
Better yet, put yourself onto chemical exfoliants instead—which brings me to my next point.
Invest in chemical exfoliants

I could write an essay on chemical exfoliants—and, as it turns out—I already have!
READ: Guide to chemical exfoliants: What are they, how to use them and how much is too much?
For the TL;DR version, here is the scoop: Chemical exfoliants come in three distinct forms: Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), and Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs). They are invaluable additions to any skincare routine, and the best part is that they come in many different forms. Nowadays, you can get chemical exfoliants in your cleansers, your toners, your moisturisers, and even your scalp scrubs.
Chances are, you’re already familiar with one particular exfoliant—salicylic acid! It’s a great, oil-soluble molecule that is able to deeply penetrate past the sebaceous oil in clogged pores. The anti-acne factor comes from its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, as well as its ability to gently push out dead skin, bacteria, sebum, and other pore-clogging debris.
Just be careful not to go overboard: They are acids, so if used incorrectly they can damage your skin barrier. I’m familiar with this feeling—beauty is my job, so trying and testing lots of products comes with the territory. Now, while this is great for my curiosity, my skin tends to find it overwhelming. When my barrier is feeling a little run-down, I reach for soothing, hydrating products and skip out on any powerful actives until it is repaired.
SHOP: Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask
BONUS TIP: Vitamin C is another great brightening antioxidant with exfoliating properties!
Try retinols and retinoids on for size

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READ: What’s the difference between retinol and retinoid? Here’s everything to know about skincare’s favourite ingredient
If like me, you’re struggling with hyperpigmentation or scarring, products with retinol are a godsend. It has really come into the limelight recently, and the hype is definitely warranted. In short, retinol is an over-the-counter vitamin A derivative that is typically less bioavailable (read: lower in efficacy) than other prescription vitamin A treatments like topical retinoids or isotretinoin (yes—Accutane is a vitamin A derivative!).
In general, retinol it easier to get your hands on, and though it isn’t as potent as its prescription counterparts, there is evidence to suggest that it does help to boost collagen production and skin turnover, which in turn improves the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. In addition, retinol is also a great way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
If you can get your mitts on the stronger stuff via a dermatologist, that’s also a great option for acne!
Wear SPF

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Sun protection should already be a part of your day-to-day anyway, but it is an absolute necessity with the introduction of retinols and chemical exfoliants into your routine.
READ: The dos and don’ts of layering skincare: An easy guide to skincare chemistry
Plus, SPF is a great way to prevent the exacerbation of hyperpigmentation from post-acne inflammation. So, if you’re struggling with scarring, try investing in a good SPF.
SHOP: Sunscreens for every skin type
Cleanse properly

READ: Everything you need to know about oil cleansers and how to use them
Not to brag, but I’ve been double cleansing since before it was a big trend (not that it helped, but still). Regardless, cleansing my skin thoroughly has been instrumental in clearing it.
Before I discovered cleansing balms and oils, I was using olive or coconut oil to rid my skin of makeup and sunscreen from the day. Then, I would go in with a regular cleanser to get the oil residue off. Listen—the routine wasn’t perfect but it worked well enough, despite my poor choices in products.
SHOP: The best cleansing balms for every skin type
Nowadays, I have a few cleansing balm and cleanser combos that I generally gravitate towards, depending on what my skin needs at the time.
READ: Body breakouts: How to get rid of your chest, back and butt acne
With regards to body acne, it should go without saying but showering regularly and thoroughly is fundamental to keeping breakouts at bay. I go into details in the guide linked above (sorry for all the self-plugs, I promise they’re useful), but there are a few other things that can help, such as using shower gels with active ingredients and soaping up your body after conditioning.
READ: Your guide to cleansing yourself after exercise—from cold showers to double cleansing
Double down with hydration

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A post shared by Linasha | Dark Skin Makeup (@linnygd)

There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to hydration and acne. Firstly, water is definitely important to healthy skin. Acne-prone skin, in particular, has more trouble with water retention, so staying hydrated is integral to happy skin.
Having said that, no amount of water is going to clear your skin on its own. I drink around 4 litres of water a day, on average. So, trust me when I say that water intake doesn’t solve your pimple problems. I mean… it might—and if so, I envy you—however, drinking “chlorophyll water” as TikTok tells you to will do nothing if you’re not addressing the root cause of your acne.
Further, one of the biggest mistakes I made as a naive youth was skipping out on moisturiser because I had oily skin. I cannot express how bad an idea this was. Newsflash: Oily skin still needs moisture. If you don’t adequately nourish your skin, it will overproduce oil and exacerbate your acne. Not so fun fact: Dehydrated skin tends to produce more pore-clogging oil to overcompensate for the dryness. Instead of skipping out on moisturiser altogether, just use a lightweight moisturiser instead!
READ: The best moisturisers for day and night
Hydration is important, but so are all the other factors you need to consider when it comes to skincare. This includes your diet, exercise, health, and skincare routine. If you think you have all bases covered and you’re still struggling, it may be time to seek professional help.
Go see a dermatologist

Image: Pinterest
If you’re struggling to pinpoint the cause behind your acne, you should probably see a dermatologist. Self-diagnosing and treating is a slippery slope to frustration and exhaustion.
I mentioned that my body has ingested very many rounds of assorted acne medications. I guess it’s probably worth mentioning that all of them were dermatologist-prescribed. Now, I am in no way endorsing isotretinoin or antibiotics or any other treatment as a cure-all for acne—while these treatments worked wonders in clearing my skin completely, a treatment that works for me may not work for you.
Further, all medications come with risks and side effects, and it is so important to speak to a licensed dermatologist to discuss your options. While I was on medication, I was going for regular health checkups to monitor any changes, and you should too.
Plus, though my skin was virtually perfect while I was actively on medication (those were the days), it wasn’t a permanent cure by any means. Like I said, after going off the medication, my skin did start breaking out again, though the types of breakouts were a marked improvement from before.
Finally, it’s important to note that treatment can be really pricey. However, if you’re in a position where you can afford it, I’d say that it’s definitely worth taking a trip to the doctors.
Consult an esthetician

Image: Pinterest
Facials are another great option for managing acne—if you can get yourself to an esthetician, getting your whole face extracted is one way to keep your face clear. Your esthetician will also be able to give you tailored advice on treating your skin as an individual.
That’s all the actual advice I have for today. Thank you for reading this far—I hope my experience helped you in some way. On that note, if there’s anything I’d want you to take from this, it would probably be to stop stressing so much about the way your skin looks. It’s understandable to feel self-conscious about your skin when you don’t feel confident in it. However, take it from me—the chances are that you’re the only one who actively notices your scarring and your spots.
I’d also just like to make it clear that that “perfect skin” is a ridiculous beauty standard to hold yourself to, and I have never seen it outside of social media and adverts. Also, acne and scarring are totally normal and having either doesn’t mean that your skin is inherently “unhealthy” nor does it mean that you’re ugly in any way. Brace for cheese—the road to self-acceptance is long and it sucks, but you’ll get there eventually.
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Lifestyle
BURO enters the Metaverse with first BURO. Metaverse Marvels Tarot NFT drop
Tarot in the Metaverse

24.05.2022
By Phyll Wu

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Tarot cards have always been an intriguing enigma that has sparked curiousity ever since its inception around the late 14th to early 15th century. Despite advancements in technology, tarot reading has made a return as a trendy hobby among many who seek guidance—or perhaps just to have fun.
With the rise of cryptocurrency and NFTs, many forms of traditional art have progressed into the digital world where art meets innovation. That being said, BURO is proud to announce our venture into the world of NFTs with the launch of the BURO. Metaverse Marvels Tarot collection in collaboration with leading NFT creatives and distribution platform, NFKings. This marks our entry into the Metaverse, bringing the fascinating mysteries of tarot to the digital space and beyond.
Designed in partnership with British tarot reader and medium Anna O’Brien, each card has been carefully selected to provide an insight into the mystery of what awaits the collectors in 2022. The deck includes a spread of 11 cards comprising the Major Arcana (Super Rare Tier) and Minor Arcana (Rare Tier), featuring a modern, luxurious take on the illustrations that each represent a unique story.
The first 10 cards are being sold as a Mystery Box on Binance NFT, while the 11th card—being the most unique and rare—will be auctioned off exclusively on the luxury NFT marketplace Brytehall. In total, there are 5,000 Mystery Boxes up for grabs. Ahead of the launch, take a look at the NFT collection in the gallery below and keep reading to find out how you can win a free trip to London!

Wheel of Fortune

Two of Swords

The Tower

Devil

Ten of Pentacles

Six of Swords

Seven of Cups

Justice

Empress

Emperor

Ace of Wands

If you’d like to be among the lucky few to add the BURO. Metaverse Marvels Tarot NFTs to your collection, allow us to address the details:

How many Mystery Boxes will be available for each card?
Major Arcana — Super Rare Tier

Wheel of Fortune — one of one, sold only to the highest bidder on Brytehall

The Empress — 400 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

The Emperor — 400 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

Justice — 400 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

The Devil — 400 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

The Tower — 400 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

Minor Arcana — Rare Tier

Ace of Wands — 600 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

Two of Swords — 600 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

Six of Swords — 600 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

Sevens of Cups — 600 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

Ten of Pentacles — 600 mystery box sold on Binance NFT

How to purchase #BUROMetaverseMarvelsTarot NFT?
1. Visit the Binance website.
2. Create an account on Binance or log in to your Binance account.
3. Top up your spot wallet with BNB, BUSD or ETH.
4. Search BURO. Metaverse Marvels Tarot.

How to buy an NFT Mystery Box?
1. On the Mystery Box product page, you’ll see a fixed price for the box. Click [Buy] to purchase.
2. An [Order Detail] pop-up will appear asking you to confirm your purchase’s details. Click [Confirm] to complete your purchase.
3. Once your purchase is successful, click [Collections] on the confirmation pop-up window to view your unopened Mystery Box. Alternatively, you can visit [User Centre] > [Mystery Box] > [Collections].

How to open your Mystery Box?
Open your mystery box right after or keep it as it is in your collection—it’s up to you. To open your Mystery Box, follow the steps below:
1. Go to [User Centre] > [Mystery Boxes] > [Collections]. Click on the Mystery Box you want to open.
2. You’ll be directed to the Mystery Box product page. Press [Click to Reveal], then click [Open box].
3. Now you’ll see what NFT you have unboxed from your Mystery Box. You can find the NFT in your Mystery Box collection. To view, go to [User Centre] > [Mystery Boxes] > [Collections].

Upon collection of all 10 unique Metaverse Marvels Boxes that represent the full tarot deck, collectors will also stand a chance to win prizes which include:
1. 5,000 BUSD prize pool
In order to qualify, collectors will have to open three mystery boxes comprising two BURO. Minor Arcana NFT and one BURO. Major Arcana NFT before the secondary market opens. The rewards will be evenly distributed among qualified participants (limited to the first 20 collectors). Check out NFKingsPro on Twitter for more details.
2. An online tarot card reading with Anna O’Brien
Collectors who own all 10 editions of the Mystery Boxes i.e. each tarot from the deck by 1 June 2022, will qualify to receive a personalised reading with British tarot reader Anna O’Brien, hosted online.
3. One of one Wheel of Fortune NFT and a free trip to London for an in-person private reading with Anna O’Brien
Collectors who own all 10 editions of NFTs by 7AM MYT, 1 June 2022 can participate in an auction on Brytehall to win the one of one Wheel of Fortune NFT. The highest bidder will receive the opportunity to fly to London to have an in-person tarot reading with Anna O’Brien. Auction closes 7PM MYT, 3 June 2022.
Winners will be contacted by June 4 with details on redeeming their tarot reading with Anna O’Brien.

The BURO. Metaverse Marvels Tarot NFT collection will be launching at 7PM MYT, 25 May 2022. For more information, visit Binance NFT and Brytehall. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more updates.

To read more on NFTs, click here.

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Fashion
#FlashbackFriday: 16 KLFW 2019 looks that are perfect for Malaysia Day

13.09.2019
By Joan Kong

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

There’s no better way to celebrate Malaysia Day than by supporting the works of our local talents, whether it’s rocking makeup from Malaysian beauty brands, planning an all-things-Malaysian weekend which includes a staycation in town, and last but not least, sporting outfits made by our very talented fashion designers. In conjunction with the festivities on September 16th, we take a look back at the recent Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week to select 16 looks in the colours of our national flag to show our patriotism loud and proud. These get-ups will let you #supportlocal and be oh-so-trendy at the same time.
There was no shortage of beautiful dresses that were sent down the runway, from Syomirizwa Gupta‘s billowy tiered cotton number and Saiful Baharim‘s saree-inspired gown, to Innai Red‘s off-shoulder lace piece (that’ll make the perfect destination wedding gown), and Alia Bastamam‘s asymmetrical dress that beautifully flows with the wind. Print-wise, Behati‘s Hibiscus print, Maarimaia’s rose motif, and Fiziwoo‘s combination of painterly prints are some of our favourites from this year, although the nautical rope accents as seen on the Jovian Mandagie co-ords will be a crowd-pleaser, for sure.
Below, our picks from KLFW 2019:
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Food + Drink
REVIEW: Chef Igarashi’s Sushi Omakase at Kampachi EQ

11.03.2021
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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Review: Sky35 KL presents an omakase experience plated on Hermès finery

Kampachi first opened its doors in 1974 at Hotel Equatorial—which you may now recognise as the recently-revamped EQ—and has remained a pioneer of authentic Japanese cuisine in Malaysia ever since. The restaurant has built its sparkling reputation on its commitment to quality, serving only the finest air-flown ingredients in each dish at the hands of their team of Tokyo-trained chefs.
The latest addition to the team is none other than Mr Kyohei Igarashi, the restaurant’s newest Sushi Master. Chef Igarashi has over 20 years of experience in sushi making, with a resume that places him all around the world, from Canada, Macau, Bangkok, Hawaii and now Malaysia.

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PSST: He wears a mask in-person, don’t worry!
I had the absolute privilege of witnessing Chef Igarashi’s work in-person, opting to try his 6-course omakase menu. Without further ado, here are my thoughts.
Right off the bat, before the meal had even begun, Kampachi’s considered decor had won me over. Tall ceilings and wooden motifs were accented with modern lighting and furniture, creating a warm, yet elevated atmosphere for my dining experience. I was immediately seated at the sushi bar, and given a quick run-down of the meal to follow.
One particular detail caught my attention—the bar itself is a staple of the authentic Japanese dining experience. Made of Hinoki wood, the rare and highly-sought material was hand-picked by EQ’s CEO Donald Lim for its significance to Japanese culture. The idea is that as you eat, the natural citrus scent of the unlacquered wood diffuses around you. It’s pretty neat.

To begin the meal, we have the appetiser (zensai), which is comprised of Kazunoko (Herring Roe), Kurumi Konago (Walnut with Anchovies), and Tako no Mozuku (Vinegared Seaweed with Octopus).
The Kazunoko was a refreshing teaser for the palate; crispy and light, yet flavourful. Next up, the Tako no Mozuku had the perfect balance of acidity. I found that the sour vinegar was a great complement to the fresh octopus, and that the blend of textures made for an interesting bite. Finally, the Kurumi Konago was simple and sweet. The sugar and soy marinade that coated the anchovies worked really well with the earthy walnut—in fact, I liked this the most out of the three appetisers.

Next up, I was served the first—yes, first—soup course of the evening, Tai Shio Jiru (Clear Soup With Sea Bream). The clear broth was made from dashi, soy sauce, sake, and bonito, also known as the cornerstones of Japanese cuisine (minus mirin). The bream, nestled expertly behind those beautifully-sliced limes, was absolutely delicious. The only qualm I really have is with the number of bones in the cut—however, given the nature of the dish, this was to be expected.

Finally, came the Mukouzuke sashimi course. As I watched Chef Igarashi prepare the meal, I was blown away by his admirable attention to detail. The passion he has for his art is palpable, and it really does translate into his creations. For example, the twiggy decoration you see in the background was transported by the chef himself—a personal touch that only goes to prove his dedication to the craft.
I watched him work in awe and before I knew it, a gorgeous spread of tuna, button shrimp, and flounder-wrapped sea urchin rolls had appeared before me.

Chef Igarashi preparing the sashimi course
I began with the button shrimp sashimi, which had a creamy, buttery texture to it with just a hint of sweetness. Next, I tried the tuna sashimi, which was expectedly delicious (there’s a reason why tuna is such a firm favourite among sushi lovers). However, what I was most excited about was the flounder and sea urchin roll, which exceeded my expectations. The nutty flavour of the buttery sea urchin pairs really well with the soft flounder and left me craving more almost immediately.
Each slice of sashimi was served with a generous helping of freshly grated wasabi and a dish of Kampachi’s homemade soy sauce. In case you weren’t aware, the wasabi you would usually find in Japanese restaurants isn’t actually wasabi—more often than not, it is a mixture of horseradish and mustard (which are, to be fair, in the same family as the real wasabi root) with some green dye. The real thing, from the Wasabia japonica plant, is much sweeter, and has less of a kick. All in all, it’s wonderful!

Then came the Sansai tempura served with charcoal salt. Spring vegetables like Kogomi ‘ostrich’ fern, Fukinoto butterbur shoots, and Taranome bud were sourced from the mountains of Japan and subsequently battered and fried until perfectly cooked and crisped. Of the three, my favourite was the Kogomi—the texture and taste were comparable to that of okra, though it was slightly sweeter.
FYI: If you’re scouring the picture of the menu above, you won’t find this dish listed. Chef Igarashi’s strength (and the beauty of omakase) lies in the ability to tailor the menu based on the available ingredients. As a result, when he had heard of the fresh shipment, this delicious vegetable course came naturally.

Red Snapper Sushi with ginger and daikon marinated in sweet vinegar and yuzu
Next came the highlight of the evening—the sushi course. One by one, the mouthwatering lineup of fresh sushi appeared on the tray before me, from scallop to red snapper and beyond.
First up was the red snapper, boiled for a minute to bring out the flavour of the skin (a “traditional practise”, Chef Igarashi assures me) and lightly brushed with the perfect amount of soy sauce. Then came the hotate (scallop), fresh from the shell and still alive—it was smooth with a little bite and made with the perfect amount of rice. This was then followed by the second sea clam of the course, the akagai (Ark shell, AKA red clam). Incredibly sweet with an almost-crispy bite, this one was a surprise from start to finish.
Then came the chef’s personal recommendation, the hokkigai (surf’s clam). A little more prep went into this one—the still-kicking clam was boiled for a minute, then immediately cooled in an ice bath. Chef Igarashi explains that the temperature change made the flesh sweeter, and I am inclined to agree. Sure enough, it was my favourite of the three clams—sweet, smooth, and with a bite just like the others, but with a distinct flavour that gave it the edge.

Hokkaido Toro Sushi
The Hokkaido Toro (tuna belly) from the sushi course was pretty much as good as you would expect it to be, and possibly better. It looked exactly like marbled beef and tasted incredibly decadent and flavourful. The anago (Conger eel or saltwater eel) involved a welcome change in preparation—according to the chef, the eel was boiled for 30 minutes and torched, with a sprinkle of yuzu over the top. Finally, came the creamy, sweet, rich, and savoury uni (sea urchin) maki—one of my favourite dishes of the evening.
TIP: Chef says that if you’re looking to make a good roll, you shouldn’t press your roll down too firmly—contrary to popular belief, you actually do want some air bubbles in there to keep the integrity of the maki intact!
Following the sushi course was yet another set of maki, only this time it was completely vegetarian. There were three choices presented, including soy-marinated Yamagobo (burdock) root, Kanpyō (dried gourd), and Kappa (cucumber) maki, all of which were refreshing pick-me-ups. Then came the second course of soup—miso soup with fresh clams—to close off the main portion of the evening.
DID YOU KNOW?: There are usually two soup courses in every traditional omakase, according to Chef Igarashi.

To round off the meal, we were served a refreshing fruit bowl made up of Japanese orange and strawberry, with a garnish of snow leaf flower.

If you’re keen to try the omakase menu for yourself, here are the details you’ll need:

Sushi Omakase by Chef Igarashi

Kampachi EQ, Equatorial Plaza, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, 50250
Price: RM500 for 6 courses (with 2 days prior booking), RM700 for a custom menu (with 7 days advance booking)Available: 3 March – 31 May 2021 Time: Daily from 12PM – 3PM (last order 2.30PM), 6PM – 10PM (last order 9.30PM) Reservations: Call +60 3 2789 7722WhatsApp +60 12 278 9110Email [email protected]Book online here
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Lifestyle
7 Things to do this weekend: 3 & 4 December 2022
Joyous fun

02.12.2022
By Marissa Chin

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

It’s the first weekend of December which means we are a few steps closer to Christmas! Rein in the holiday by exploring these fun Christmas-themed pop-ups, performances, and more around town.

1. Hop on the holiday bus as Coach hits the road

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When: 2 to 4 December 2022, 10am to 9pm
Where: APW, Bangsar
To celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, the fashion house has launched Coach on The Move, a bespoke holiday experience traveling to four major cities across West Malaysia. This weekend, the holiday bus will stop at APW Bangsar together with a life-sized inflatable of Rexy, the brand’s mascot. Explore the double-decker’s interiors that are decked with joyful Coach holiday decor and fashion accessories. Other fun-filled activations include multiple photo areas, outdoor lounges, a coffee truck by Gigi Coffee, a skincare booth by Chuck’s, and a Rexy figurine acrylic painting session for the little ones.
For more information about Coach on The Move, visit the website.

2. Explore Wanderlust + Co’s brand new store

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Where: Sunway Pyramid (LG1.63)
Fans of Wanderlust + Co’s jewellery should make their way to its first permanent store located in Sunway Pyramid. Reflecting the brand’s whimsical and zen image, the store features a serene and minimalist ambience with plenty of photo opportunities. This includes a secret garden room, mirror ceilings, a jewellery concierge and a beautifully designed arch window amongst flower paths and galaxy motifs. Peruse Wanderlust + Co’s bestselling pieces perched on custom magnetic walls—a first for jewellery stores in Malaysia.
Follow Wanderlust + Co on Instagram for the latest updates.

3. Experience the glitz and glam of Cartier’s Christmas Lounge

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When: 25 November to 31 December 2022, 10am to 10pm
Where: East Entrance, The Gardens Mall
Not one to miss out on the fun, Cartier has taken over the East Entrance of the The Gardens Mall with its Christmas Lounge. Inspired by the bright lights and glam of Broadway, the radiant space welcomes you in with its specially made lightbulbs and plush red carpet. Make your way inside to discover various interactive points from a captivating Infinity Mirror to nostalgic postcard-writing stations.
For more updates, follow The Garden’s Mall on Instagram.

4. Indulge in guilt-free gelato from XO-ice

Where: Mercato, Ampang Grocers, Ben’s Independent Grocer, Bilabila Mart, Cold Storage, Isetan, Jaya Grocer, VillageGrocer
We all know the holiday season is a time for feasts and snacking, so how about considering a more guilt-free option? XO-ice is an Asian-born-Italian-made gelato brand that offers a health-conscious option for those with a sweet tooth. Their gelatos are 70 per cent lower in calories, contain eight to nine times less sugar, and have 1.4 to 1.9 times more protein than your average carton of gelato. The brand is also vegetarian, GMO-free, and halal-certified. Popular flavours include King Don’t Lie Musang King Durian, Mucho Matcha, Takes-one-to Mango, Goood Morning Vietnaaam!, and more.
For more information and updates, visit XO-ice on Instagram, Facebook, or website.

5. Get cosy around the bonfire at Mount Chuck’smas

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When: 3 to 7 December 2022, 10am to 8pm
Where: The Starhill Gallery
Think snowcapped mountains, toasty ski lodges, hot cocoa around a crackling bonfire and you’ll have Mount Chuck’smas. After the Chuck’smas Market last year, the lifestyle brand is back to take over Starhill Gallery with its collection of clothing and accessories inspired by wintery adventures atop Aspen. Shop colourful beanies, velour sweat sets and puffy mountain jackets as well as Chuck’s limited edition skincare sets to pamper yourself this season. Scour for other gifts for your friends and family by perusing exclusive offerings from ana tomy, Swarovski, Gote, and more.
Follow @chucks.co on Instagram for more updates.
6. Witness a mesmerising performance of art and music at Daya

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When: 26 November to 18 December 2022 (art exhibition), 1:30pm to 7:30pm (weekdays), 10:30am to 7:30pm (weekends), closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays | 3 December 2022 (art installation performance), 8:45pm
Where: Upstairs gallery, Monét Taman Melawati
Price: RM30 per person for the art installation performance
This Sunday, tune in to a special performance as Suhaili Micheline takes centre stage to bring her art to life. Inspired by dance and movement, Micheline creates her art with her body as the paintbrush and her environment as the canvas—which means you might get painted on yourself! Accompanying her in this immersive art exhibition and live performance is Lyu Stankova on the cello.
For the latest updates, follow Micheline’s Instagram.

7. Discover the meaning behind these ‘Objects of Affection’

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When: 26 November to 18 December 2022, 11am to 6pm
Where: M Gallery, 8 Pjs 11/5, Bandar Sunway (first floor)
Fill your weekend with more artsy fun by dropping by the Objects of Affection group exhibition held at M Gallery. Curated by artist Kimberley Boudville, the exhibition features a range of emerging and established contemporary artists. Objects of Affection reflects Boudville’s relationship and philosophy for connecting, and explores the deep-rooted subconscious predispositions we have that make up the human condition.
For the latest updates, follow M Gallery’s Instagram.

Coming up next: Get tickets to Heineken Refresh

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When: 9 December 2022, 7pm onwards
Where: Pavilion, Level 1, Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park, Resorts World Genting
Catch The Chainsmokers live at Heineken’s cross-genre music experience alongside local artists, Yunohoo and Nyk . There will also be special performances by DJs Blink, Bate and Julian. Ticket giveaways will go on until 7 December 2022, in which the public can log in to claim one of the hundred tickets available at 12pm daily.
Visit Pouch Nation to claim your tickets.

For more BURO Weekend Guides, head here.

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Men's
Style ID: All the designer outfits Lee Min Ho wore in ‘The King: Eternal Monarch’—complete

14.06.2020
By Joan Kong

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5 Leading tailors in Klang Valley to design your sleek wedding suits

K-dramas have the ability to make us laugh, cry, love, hate, ache, and heal all at once, but aside from the captivating storylines (and the actors, of course), very often, their fashion choices will pique a lot of interest too. The latest drama that’s on everyone’s radar? The King: Eternal Monarch starring Lee Min Ho and Kim Go Eun. The fantasy-romance series tells the story of “a modern-day Korean emperor passes through a mysterious portal and into a parallel world, where he encounters a feisty police detective”.
While we may not be able to curb your curiousity towards the existence of an alternate universe, one thing we can help to answer, are the outfits that Lee Min Ho wore in the series. His character, Emperor Lee Gon of the Kingdom of Korea, is always dressed impeccably in looks that are fit for a king. We’ve previously ID-ed his watch, but if you’re curious to know the designer brands behind some of his looks, read on to find out.
Below, all the designer looks Lee Min Ho wore in The King: Eternal Monarch so far, according to the episodes:

Episode 1

Outerwear: Kim Seo Ryong

Kim Seo Ryong SS19

Episode 2

Cardigan: Raf Simons

Oversized buttoned cardigan, Raf Simons

Blazer and sweater: Gucci

Asymmetric pinstripe jacket with stitching, Gucci

Argyle wool v-neck sweater, Gucci

Coat: Fendi

Shaded effect FF motifs coat, Fendi

Episode 3

Coat: Dior Men

Dior Men Autumn/Winter 2019

Coat and trousers: Kim Seo Ryong

Kim Seo Ryong Autumn/Winter 2018

Sunglasses: Gentle Monster

Bling 02 (BR) sunglasses, Gentle Monster

Bling 02 (BR) sunglasses, Gentle Monster

Episode 4

Sweater: Raey

V-neck tweed-effect wool-blend sweater, Raey

Coat and shirt: Hermès

Hermès Autumn/Winter 2019

Hermès Autumn/Winter 2019

Coat: Dunhill

Dunhill Spring/Summer 2020

Coat: Berluti

Berluti Spring/Summer 2020

Episode 5

Hoodie: Moncler

Moncler Genius x 1017 Alyx 9SM hoodie, Moncler

Moncler Genius x 1017 Alyx 9SM hoodie, Moncler

Coat: Kim Seo Ryong

Header

Kim Seo Ryong Autumn/Winter 2018

Episode 6

Robe: Kim Seo Ryong

Kim Seo Ryong Spring/Summer 2020

Episode 7

Coat: Joosooloo

Herringbone long coat, Joosooloo

Episode 8

Parka: Valentino

VLTN bomber jacket, Valentino
*Replaced with a similar design

Episode 9

Sunglasses: Gentle Monster

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Travel
Guide: What you need to know about getting your diving licence in Malaysia
A whole new world

06.06.2022
By Natalie Khoo

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Guide to ETIAS: The new travel pass for Malaysians visiting Europe

The ocean has always been one of the most fascinating places on the entire planet. Despite covering 70 per cent of Earth’s surface, mankind has only explored an estimated five per cent of the ocean floor. It’s no wonder why author M.L. Borges says: “The beauty and mystery of the ocean fills our lives with wonders, vast beyond our imagination.”
Whether you are an adventurous person at heart or simply seek an escape from reality, scuba diving offers a thrilling yet calming glimpse into the majestic underwater world. Not only is it a great sport or hobby to pick up for leisure and fitness, diving also instils a greater appreciation of aquatic life and Mother Earth as a whole.
If you’re interested to begin your diving journey, read on to learn how you can become a certified scuba diver in Malaysia.

GETTING A PADI DIVING LICENSE

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While it’s not illegal to dive without a licence, most diving centres will not allow you to do so without a valid licence. PADI is a good place to start, as the world’s leading scuba diver training organisation with globally recognised certificates.
Beginner divers will typically start with the PADI Open Water Dive Course, where you will be trained to dive to a maximum depth of 18 metres or 60 feet. The course consists of three phases:

Knowledge Development: Students will learn the basic principles of scuba diving and complete a set of quizzes and a final exam to qualify. This can be done independently (via e-learning) or in a classroom environment.

Confined Water Dives: Students will learn how to apply scuba diving skills and get comfortable with diving equipment in a pool or a body of water with calm conditions (for example, just off-shore).

Open Water Dives: Students will practice, apply and demonstrate what they have learnt in the first two phases in open water conditions (a minimum depth of five metres).

PRE-REQUISITES

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1. Age limitations
The minimum age requirement to be eligible for the PADI Open Water course is 10 years old. Student divers who are younger than 15 will earn the PADI Junior Open Water Diver certification upon completing the course, which they may upgrade to PADI Open Water Diver certification upon reaching 15.

Photo: Sebastian Penna / Unsplash
2. Basic swim skills
There’s a common misconception that you do not necessarily need to know how to swim in order to dive. However, this isn’t true with the PADI Open Water Dive course. Students will be required to pass a swim and float test as part of the course, namely:

Swim 200 metres/yards (or 300 metres/yards in mask, fins and snorkel). There is no time limit for this, and you may use any swimming strokes you want
Float and tread water for 10 minutes using any methods you want

With that said, you don’t have to be an avid swimmer in order to pass the test. The goal of the test is to ensure that you have basic swim skills and are comfortable enough in water so that you are able to keep calm and avoid panic while diving.

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3. Health and fitness
Besides being comfortable in water, you should also have a reasonable level of fitness. Make no mistake—diving is a physically demanding sport. Handling scuba gear, especially the cylinder tank, requires strength and cardiovascular endurance. Again, you don’t have to be a gym junkie or sportsperson to qualify, but it helps if you lead an active lifestyle.
In addition, all students must fill up a scuba diving medical questionnaire before beginning a diving course. Some physical conditions such as lung problems or ear issues may be potentially dangerous under high pressure during a dive. Those with physical disabilities may still dive with special gear and alternative methods, depending on the type of disability, also known as adaptive diving. When in doubt, check with your doctor/medical professional if you are fit for diving.

WHERE TO GET CERTIFIED

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There are many PADI Dive Centres around Malaysia, including those based in the city and on islands. Among the more popular diving sites for beginners include Pulau Tioman, Pulau Redang, Pulau Perhentian, and Semporna (Sabah).
The full PADI Open Water Dive Course usually takes four days to complete, which can be completed in a single island trip or separated into different phases. Here’s a look at your options and alternatives:

Island trip: This option is ideal for those who prefer to study the course and practise the skills at one go. (Note: You should be fairly comfortable in water, particularly the ocean, to ensure you are able to commit to the full course once you’re on the island.)
City + island trip: This option is ideal for those who are more comfortable practising Confined Water skills in a safe pool before jumping into the ocean. You may also opt to complete your knowledge review beforehand (via e-learning) before continuing your Confined Water and Open Water lessons on the island of your choice (subject to your chosen package).

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PADI Scuba Diver’s Course: If you are hesitant about committing to the PADI Open Water Diver course, you may opt for this course instead, which is basically half of the former. It omits some of the more challenging skills and requires only two to three days to complete. The key differences are the need for supervision and maximum depth—PADI Scuba Divers may only dive under the direct supervision of a PADI Professional to a depth ofup to 12 metres/40 feet. Certified PADI Scuba Divers may later decide to continue the remaining lessons to upgrade to a PADI Open Water Diver licence.
Discover Scuba Diving:  This one-day introductory dive is ideal for those who want to try scuba diving, but aren’t ready to take the plunge into a certification course. Students will be taught the basics of diving, including the skills and equipment required for a scuba dive, followed by a short, shallow dive experience either in a pool or in a safe section of the ocean/reef. The experience will not count as part of your qualification to become a certified scuba diver.

Depending on your chosen package, the course can cost between RM1,000 to RM2,000 (except Discover Scuba Diving). This is typically inclusive of course materials (knowledge development), diving equipment (mask, snorkel, cylinder tank, wetsuit, etc.) confined open water dives, open water dives, and instructor fees. Some packages may also include accommodation and meals at additional cost.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

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Bring appropriate swimwear: Given the all-round sunny weather in Malaysia, it’s advisable to wear a rashguard underneath the wetsuit provided by your dive centre to avoid getting a sunburn. (Editor’s note: I learnt this the hard way and went home with tan lines five shades darker than my skin tone on my arms and thighs!)
Wear sufficient sunscreen (make sure it’s reef-safe!): Focus on exposed areas, including your face, ears, and the back of your hands. Check for reef-safe labels to ensure you are not harming corals and aquatic life while you stay protected from UV rays.

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Travel with a partner/friends: This is optional as you can still get a diving licence as a solo traveller. However, you will likely be paired with another diver during your open water dives as all scuba divers are required to dive in a buddy group of two or three. If this is not something you are comfortable doing with a stranger, then you may want to consider getting your licence with someone you know.

Practise breathing through your mouth: This will help you adapt faster to scuba diving, as you will be breathing through your regulator (mouth) underwater. You can practise this with a snorkel in a pool or simply pinch your nose and breathe in and out through your mouth in a slow, relaxed manner.

Relax and enjoy the experience: Diving is supposed to be an enjoyable experience, so don’t forget to keep calm, keep breathing, and enjoy the journey!

For more information or enquiries, contact a PADI Dive Centre or Resort near you.

Read more about diving here.

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Features
Paris Haute Couture Week SS18 street style: Black-and-white done right
Colours of the week

26.01.2018
By Joan Kong

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Fashion Insider: Content creator Eros Erfe on the inspiration behind the ‘Bags of KL’ series

While there’s nothing like a pop of bright colour that gives the simplest of outfits that oomph, you can always count on black and white tones for fail-proof pairings. The Haute Couture Week showgoers opted for the latter. Monochrome hues seemed to be a common theme for many of these street style stars this season, as they were all spotted in stylish layered up looks in the classic black and white. Whether it’s to protest the gloomy and cold weather in the City of Light, or just to keep things sleek and chic, here are some style tips to nail the easiest formula for a pulled together ensemble:
1)    Incorporate different textures into your look for added interest. Look 1’s sequinned number was given a slight preppy juxtaposition with a button-down shirt layered under.
2)    Play with proportions and silhouettes à la look 8 and 14.
3)    The littlest details count. Look 2’s monogrammed leggings gave the striped belted coat that minor print clash, while look 17’s matching striped and checkered separates tune up the bold factor.

{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] Paris Haute Couture SS18 street style” rid=”5875″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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Spring Summer 2018


Fashion
Karlie Kloss is the new face for Topshop SS’16
Kloss and effect

17.12.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Topshop has unveiled the face of its Spring/Summer 2016 campaign, and it is none other than supermodel and entrepreneur Karlie Kloss. This is the Victoria’s Secret Angel model’s second Topshop campaign, after her first eight years ago alongside fellow supermodel Jourdan Dunn. The SS’16 campaign sees Karlie lounging casually on the streets of New York in a series of images shot by acclaimed photographer Tyrone Lebon. Take a visual trip to the campaign’s lookbook here:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”Topshop Karlie Kloss” rid=”3707″ order=”a_tstamp”}

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News
7 Things you can do this weekend: 25 & 26 August 2018

22.08.2018
By Rachel Au

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

1. Riuh Turns One! at APW Bangsar, 11am – 9pm, 25 & 26 August
Can you believe it’s been a whole year of curated and themed Riuh events? And so, they’re throwing yet another one with more exciting workshops, pop-up stores, food stalls and the whole shebang.
For more info, visit the Facebook page.

2. Tribe Outdoor Sweat Party at Tribe @ Arcoris Mont Kiara, various sessions, 25 August
The guys at Tribe — who really kicked our butts during our #FitnessFriday episode — is putting together a workout party beyond just boxing. Choose from yoga to Zumba to shadow boxing, and walk away with some goodies and feel-good endorphins.
RM37 per class. For more info, visit the website.

3. Gin Lane at Plaza Batai, 6pm till late, 25 August
Quench a certain thirst as the hottest Gin Festival returns with the best that KL has to offer, be it the bars or the bottles of gin itself.
Entry is free while cocktails for the evening will be priced at RM25 each. For more info, visit the Facebook page.

4. Taste of Malaysia: A Day of Food and Art at KitaKita @ Damansara Heights, 10am – 6pm, 25 August
Celebrate all things Malaysian — shop for fresh produce, enjoy local dishes and try your hand at watercolour painting.
For more info, visit the event page.

5. End of Summer Brunch at babe, 12pm – 3pm, 26 August
Three things: Summer-inspired dishes, free flow of Perrier-Jouët champagne, and a swimming pool. Is there any better way to spend a lazy Sunday?
Prices vary. For more info, visit the website.

6. Traders Market #2 at Publika, 10am – 10pm, 25 & 26 August
Looking for more options. Another market will be popping up this weekend over at Publika featuring a long list of homegrown brands and entrepreneurs.
For more info, visit the event page.

7. Watch Crazy Rich Asians
Still contemplating if it’s worth the hype? Here’s our take on the movie, if it helps.

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Skincare
How to know when you’ve pushed your skin too far (and what to do if you have)
Save your skin

11.09.2022
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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It’s time to bid adieu to your power-packed acids and powerful retinols—the hottest new skincare fad on the block is all about the nourishment and hydration of the skin barrier. There’s just one question: What actually is a skin barrier and why exactly does it need nourishing?
Ahead, find BURO’s guide to your skin barrier, from what it is, why damaging it is ruining your skin, and how to keep it healthy and happy:
WHAT IS THE SKIN BARRIER?

Photo by Valeria Smirnova on Unsplash
Your skin is made up of many layers, each with its own specific function. The outermost layer is called the stratum corneum—this is what people are referring to when they describe your “skin barrier”—and it is a tough layer that serves as the first line of defence for your body.
It is often described as a “brick wall” made up of skin cells (AKA the bricks) held together by a mixture of cholesterol, ceramides, and fatty acids (AKA the mortar). This brick wall has a few functions. The first is to protect the body from external aggressors like pollution, temperature, and UV radiation. The second is to stop pathogens and toxins from penetrating your body. The third is to keep the deeper layers of skin and the rest of your body moisturised.
Essentially, your skin barrier plays a crucial role in your health, and it needs to be kept happy for it to function properly. Should you compromise your skin barrier, a whole host of skin issues will likely follow.
HOW CAN YOU TELL IF YOUR SKIN BARRIER HAS BEEN COMPROMISED?

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Are you experiencing redness, breakouts, irritation, itchiness, dryness, sagging skin or wrinkles? If so, you probably have a compromised skin barrier. All of these symptoms arise when your barrier isn’t working properly as your skin becomes vulnerable to damage without its protective wall in place.
In addition, you may also experience an infection with a compromised skin barrier, be it viral, bacterial or fungal. Why? Your skin is slightly acidic—also called the “acid mantle”—to buffer against the growth of pathogens and prevent infection. When this acid mantle is disrupted in any way (usually through the use of non-pH-balanced products or extremely harsh skincare), it will lead to skin problems.
WHAT CAN CAUSE A DAMAGED SKIN BARRIER?
This is a loaded question with too many answers to name, but here is a list of some of the biggest contributors to skin barrier disruption:

Extreme weather
Allergens, irritants and pollutants
Sun exposure
Harsh skincare ingredients (including using non-pH-balanced products)
Washing the skin too much
Exfoliating the skin too often
Poor diet
Injuries
Stress
Ageing
Smoking

HOW TO FIX A DAMAGED SKIN BARRIER
Fortunately, the answer to your woes is simple. Just take a break from any potent actives and adopt a gentle, soothing skincare routine to support and heal your barrier. Here are our six steps to happier skin…
Step 1: Use a gentle, non-stripping acidic cleanser
To heal your skin barrier, you’ll have to start with restoring your acid mantle. Using a gentle, non-stripping and pH-balanced cleanser (that is hopefully enhanced with other skin-loving ingredients) is a good start.
SHOP: The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm, RM58

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A post shared by The INKEY List (@theinkeylist)

Step 2: Soothe your skin with a soothing ceramide toner
As we mentioned earlier, ceramides are lipids that are found naturally in the skin barrier (they’re part of the “mortar” of the brick wall), and they help to moisturise and strengthen the skin barrier. Environmental stressors like sun damage or stress can deplete the amount of natural ceramides in your skin barrier, which is what leads to symptoms like dryness, irritation, and roughened skin texture, to name a few.
So, when your barrier is feeling a little run down, you’ll want to send in some ceramide-rich topical reinforcements to give it a boost.
SHOP: Dr Jart+ Ceramidin Liquid, RM145

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Step 3: Apply a hydrating hyaluronic acid- or glycerin-rich serum
When it comes to soothing and healing a damaged skin barrier, hydration is a key priority. That’s why you’ll want to look out for humectants in your skincare (read: moisturising agents that pull water from the environment into the outer layer of your skin). Hyaluronic acid, glycerin and polyglutamic acid are all great options for this purpose.
SHOP: Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum, RM196

STEP 4: LOCK IN THE HYDRATION WITH A BARRIER-FORTIFYING PEPTIDE- AND UREA-PACKED MOISTURISER
While both ingredients are great for keeping the skin moisturised, they both have additional perks. For example, urea does a wonderful job of exfoliating while peptides help to strengthen the skin and reduce the signs of ageing.
SHOP: La Mer The Moisturising Soft Cream Moisturiser, RM1,600

STEP 5: SEAL IT ALL IN WITH A NOURISHING FACE OIL
If, even after your four-step routine, you’re still struggling with dryness and dullness, it might be worth investing in a nourishing face oil to seal all the moisturising and barrier-repairing goodness into your skin. You’ll want to look out for antioxidant-rich, nourishing face oils that have been created for dry, dehydrated skin.
SHOP: Sunday Riley Juno Antioxidant  + Superfood Face Oil

STEP 6: ALWAYS, ALWAYS USE SPF (AND AVOID THE SUN WHERE POSSIBLE)
Given that sun damage is a key player in the disruption of the skin barrier, it only makes sense to layer on the SPF all day, all year. However, when it comes to heal a compromised skin barrier, it’s best to opt for a sunscreen that has been specifically created for sensitive skin.
SHOP: Ultra Violette Clean Screen Sensitive Skinscreen SPF30

HOW LONG UNTIL YOUR SKIN IS REPAIRED?
Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer to this. It wholly depends on the condition of your skin, your skin type, and how diligent you are with your new routine. For those who have had a single mishap with a too-rough face scrub, you should be back to tip top shape in no time. However, if you’ve been layering on the actives constantly for months (or even years) on end, expect your recovery time to take a little longer.
In addition to adopting a good, gentle skincare routine, you’ll also want to take a trip to your dermatologist, if possible. Though you can restore your skin’s barrier through at-home methods, some conditions do need a helping hand of prescription treatments to fully resolve.

Find more skincare tips like this here.

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Balenciaga introduces a brand new logo

Fashion
Balenciaga introduces a brand new logo
A modern typeface

02.10.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Almost two years after Demna Gvasalia took over the creative reins at Balenciaga, the Georgian designer is succinctly attempting to craft his own identity at the Spanish luxury house. From taking inspiration from Ikea to giving Crocs an elevated spin (by way of platforms, naturally), Gvasalia’s path in conceiving a notion of singularity at Balenciaga has been gradual—but only recently has he sped up the pace, especially this Spring/Summer 2018 season.

The house introduced a new logo with a redesigned typeface, a few days before the women’s SS18 ready-to-wear collection was unveiled. “Conceived in-house, the development process was inspired by the clarity of public transportation signage. The result is a visually shortened logo which gives a simple, bold stamp to the timeless deluxe Balenciaga signature,” said the official statement by the brand.

What are your thoughts on the new logo below?

New Balenciaga Logo Out Now
A post shared by Balenciaga (@balenciaga) on Sep 29, 2017 at 12:32am PDT

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7 Things you can do this weekend: 6 & 7 October 2018

03.10.2018
By Rachel Au

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

1. Quivo Fiesta at Quivo, Pavilion KL, 12pm – 12am, 5 – 7 October
The second edition of Quivo Fiesta is happening this weekend as part of Pavilion KL’s month-long Journey to Taste festival and they’re going all out with an amazing array of new, off-menu creations as well as classic favourites. Think Lobster Nasi Lemak, Seafood Paella, Truffle Mushroom Risotto and more — all with a funfair setting complete with live music, colourful stilt walkers and fun activities. This year, however, sees a new collaboration with Godiva where the Godiva signature soft serve ice cream and refreshing chocolate drink blend, Godiva Chocolixer will also be served.
For more info, visit the website.

2. High Line Festival at High Line, Resorts World Genting, 2pm till late, 5 – 7 October
A new dining, nightlife hub and alfresco area is opening on the 4th floor of SkyAvenue at Resorts World Genting and to celebrate, they’re throwing a festival! The space will be home to several new dining establishments such as Jon Bing (specialists of crispy Shanghainese egg roll crepes), Burgers & Shots (house-made burgers accompanied with shoestring fries and a variety of spirits served in shot glasses), and Back in Time (a bar with a Doctor Who vibe and an impressive collection of cocktails). Discover the rest for yourself this weekend.
For more info, visit the event page.

3. The Belly Good Food Market at Publika, 11am – 6pm, 6 & 7 October
You don’t have to look too far for homegrown artisanal food entrepreneurs because quite a number of them will be gathering at this market. To tease you a little, we hear someone will be there with petai peanut butter.
For more info, visit the event page.

4. Sneakerlah 2018 at Mid Valley Exhibition Centre, 10am – 10pm, 6 & 7 October
It’s bigger and better this time round! From a display of Malaysia’s biggest Supreme collection to upcoming releases by international brands such as Vans, Converse and Puma; to the Sneakerlah marketplace where you can purchase or trade the hottest and rarest sneakers and streetwear items with more than 60 vendors, it’s a sneakerhead’s dream.
Entry prices start from RM15 (early bird tickets). For more info, visit the website.

5. Pasar Old Malaya at Old Malaya, Jalan Raja Chulan, 5pm – 11pm, 7 October
Be spoilt for choice this weekend because over at Jalan Raja Chulan, the fine chefs of Old Malaysia’s seven restaurants will be rolling up their sleeves to whip up dishes that will tantalise your tastebuds. There’ll also be music and some shopping to be done.
For more info, visit the event page.

6. Indulge in a Pink Afternoon Tea at Mandarin Oriental KL
These photos will tempt you.

7. Check out more things you can do in this month’s Buro Culture Guide
Head over here.

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Features
7 Questions with Aldo Bensadoun of ALDO Group
So many shoes, so little time

08.12.2015
By Wei Yeen Loh

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What shoe mogul and entrepreneur Aldo Bensadoun has done with ALDO Group since he founded it over 40 years ago is no mean feat. The Montréal-based footwear and accessories design and manufacturing group currently has over 1,600 stores in 80 countries, all while giving back to the communities over the years by supporting philantrophic causes such as War Child, YouthAIDS, CANFAR, Youth Fusion, and more.

Buro 24/7 Malaysia chats with Aldo Bensadoun about shoe competitors in the industry now, his daily motto and what his corporate culture is like.

1. How does ALDO keep current with the seasonal trends as the market evolves, along with ensuring that customers would want to come back to ALDO for chic, quality-driven shoes?
We have over 40 years of experience in fulfilling consumer desires and trend forecasting. Over these 40 years, we have developed relationships with a network of collaborators – designers, artist, etc. We have designs offices in Montreal, London, Hong Kong, Civitanova and Italy.
We do extensive and relentless travel and research to find what will translate to our customer, understanding what a customer needs and wants. We also analyze the clothing that will be trending that season and also local cultural trends in key markets – design, music, art etc.
Most importantly: Timing. It plays an important role as we always try to offer major fashion trends where the customer needs it, when they need it.

2. Where do you draw inspiration in your life and your business?
I am a strong believer that inspiration comes from all kinds of resources such as history, political movement, economic events that are happening around the world, what people are wearing on the streets, movies, poetry—and all of those have effect on your designs.

3. With the constant challenges from competitor shoe brands nowadays, how does ALDO stay relevant internationally?
We are constantly evolving and re-inventing—nobody is quicker at adjusting shoe styles and retail concepts to suit the demands of fickle, fashion-obsessed customers. We are always on the need to be fashionable and affordable. Our design teams are located in different cities around the world, and they are constantly on the lookout for trends that will appeal to our customers.
We have the privilege relationship with our manufacturing facilities, thus allowing us to deliver styles in a shorter amount of time. On a normal basis, it would take us 6 months from concept or design to shipping to reach the store but now we can deliver the merchandise within 3 months The efficiency of our supply chain enables us to shorten the time between the arrival at our warehouse and delivery to our stores.

4. What is your number one motto that you live by and adhere to everyday, as an entrepreneur?
Do what you really like, enjoy what you do and always stick to your last.

5. What is your vision for ALDO in the next five to ten years?
I want to see the product evolving and growing. Ultimately we want to be a world-leading creator and operator of desirable footwear and accessory brand by delighting our customers and always act with our values of respect, integrity and love.
We are the first Canadian retailer to ever succeed in the United States, and today we have stores in 95 countries. We want to double the business over the next 5 years and we are planning to open more stores, especially in SEA as we see Asia as a growth market. We are thrilled with the new store opening here in Suria KLCC—it’s an iconic location and we want everyone to know that we are here to stay.

6. What do you think makes a successful shoe business that transcends global markets?
I think a brand cannot live by itself. The brand has to evolve with the people and be faithful to its customers; the brand cannot be everything to everybody. You have to focus on a certain kind of customers. For us, we focus on style seekers, the type of people who play or put a huge emphasis on the way they look, the way they are perceive by people and the way they act in life.
As a global brand, you also need to be competent enough to serve a global market by offering a different product with fantastic value to the customers. It is important for the company to have the right sense of what is happening in different cities. We know what customers want and we give them the right product. Delivering good service to the customer is equally important.

7. What is ALDO’s corporate culture like, and what is the idea behind it?
Guided by a strong set of values, we have set out to build a different kind of modern company, one founded on compassion and ethics, aiming to influence society in both fashion and social responsibility. Simply put, we have created a brand with conscience; a brand that cares.
The ALDO Group vision is to make people feel good through the products and services we provide every day. This vision is driven by three core values, which lie at the heart of everything the company does and strives towards:
• Respect: An open-hearted attitude: Valuing and embracing diversity, encouraging equality.• Integrity: A commitment to excellence: Principled follow-through on every task undertaken.• Love: Caring passionately: Enthusiasm, from the inside out.
There is no doubt that the main reason we are successful today is our people—they are the biggest asset we have. And the beauty of all these is that we get to expand our cultures to the stores in different cities.

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Fashion
Style spotlight: 13 Outfits we adore from Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras’ Tour
She'll never go out of style

23.03.2023
By Benedict Unang

Featured image: @taylorswift/Instagram

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And just like that, Taylor Swift is back on the road! After a five-year hiatus, the multi-hyphenate artist kicked off her eagerly awaited Eras tour last week in Arizona, USA—attracting a massive crowd of approximately 70,000 Swifties. The three-hour set was split into different eras to mirror each album she’s previously put out, and the Grammy-winning artist wowed fans with a visual feast as she performed in a variety of bespoke outfits. From a bejewelled Roberto Cavalli jumpsuit with a snake motif to an Oscar de La Renta bodysuit embellished with sequins and crystals, here are thirteen looks we love from the sold-out concert!

‘Lover’

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A post shared by Joseph Cassell Falconer (@josephcassell1)

Swift opened her tour set with songs from Lover while dressed in a glittering Versace one-piece covered in pastel-hued rhinestones, silver knee-high boots by Christian Louboutin, and a matching microphone encrusted with glistening purple gems.

‘Fearless’

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A post shared by Roberto Cavalli (@roberto_cavalli)

The Fearless era evoked a lot of fond memories as the record earned her first  ‘Album of the Year’ Grammy award. Looking back, her presence at the time was defined by lots of gold and brown shades, so it seems only fitting that Swift showed up in a mini dress by Roberto Cavalli with a sweetheart neckline, gold fringes dripping down her body and matching silver cowboy boots as she commanded the stage.

‘Evermore’

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A post shared by Taylor Swift THE ERAS TOUR (@taylorswift_lullabies)

Swift serenaded the audience with ‘Tis The Damn Season, Tolerate It,  and Champagne Problems during the Evermore segment while wearing an Etro marigold maxi dress with embroidered leaf details.

‘Reputation’

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A post shared by Roberto Cavalli (@roberto_cavalli)

Following her infamous feud with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian in 2016, Swift’s darkest and edgiest period to date saw the release of Reputation, where she embraced the “snake” label the public had given her. For her tour, she matched the energy with an asymmetrical one-legged masterpiece by Roberto Cavalli, adorned with a snake motif slithering up the side in ruby red, black and diamond beads that seamlessly complemented her black ankle boots.

‘Speak Now’

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A post shared by John Shearer (@johnshearer)

Despite performing just one song from the Speak Now era, Swift enchanted spectators with her powerful vocals while donning a crystal-encrusted ball gown designed by Nicole + Felicia, a Taiwanese bridal house.

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A post shared by ZUHAIR MURAD (@zuhairmuradofficial)

For night two, Swift chose a pink tulle Zuhair Murad gown with a voluminous skirt, a starburst bodice and a cross-strap back. According to the Lebanese fashion designer, the breathtaking dress required more than 350 hours of handwork in the brand’s atelier—talk about labour of love!

‘Red’

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A post shared by Taylor Swift España (@taylorswiftes_)

Swift recreated her looks from the 22 music video with the shirt reading, “a lot going on at the moment,” as opposed to the original shirt, which read ‘’not a lot going on at the moment’’.

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A post shared by Taylor Swift Malaysia #SwiftiesSeason 🌈 (@tswiftmalaysia)

When performing the 10-minute version of All Too Well, the singer-songwriter changed into a red and black bodysuit and paired it with a floor-length red coat adorned in sequins to match her decorated microphone stand and crimson guitar.

‘Folklore’

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A post shared by Alberta Ferretti (@albertaferretti)

Folklore is one of the albums that saw Swift stray from pop music and delve into indie-folk and alternative rock. During this period, she embraced the ‘cottage-core’ aesthetic, which she conveyed on stage sporting an Alberta Ferretti custom-made, dreamy lilac maxi dress.

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A post shared by Alberta Ferretti (@albertaferretti)

On the second night, the singer sported an ivory tiered gown with flowy sleeves, subtle crystal and micro-beading embroideries designed by the Italian designer. The perfect dress for a wedding, we say!

‘1989’

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A post shared by Roberto Cavalli (@roberto_cavalli)

1989 was an era that cemented Swift as a global pop star. In this segment, she joined forces once again with Roberto Cavalli, donning a fuchsia two-piece number—a sparkling diamond-shaped skirt and a matching top covered in Swarovski crystals.

‘Midnights’

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A post shared by Oscar de la Renta (@oscardelarenta)

Performing hits from the Midnights album, including Lavender Haze and Anti-Hero, Swift wore an Oscar de la Renta purple faux fur coat with an aurora borealis sequin embellished T-shirt inside.

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A post shared by Oscar de la Renta (@oscardelarenta)

Swift closed the show in style with a midnight blue Oscar de la Renta bodysuit decorated with sequins, crystals, and draped fringe necklaces that complemented the black sparkly knee-high boots. According to the fashion house, the dress took three hundred fifteen hours to put together, with over 5,300 hand-embroidered crystals and beads adorning the bodice.

For more fashion reads, click here.

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Lifestyle
How national sprinter Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli trains with Under Armour
Sprinting ahead

11.05.2023
By Marissa Chin

FEATURED AND IN-TEXT IMAGES: Under Armour Malaysia

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

As the SEA Games 2023 continues in Cambodia until 17 May, several Malaysian athletes have already bagged their medals. Namely, national sprinter Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli won bronze in the women’s 200-metre event on Tuesday, ending a six-year medal drought for our country. The 29-year-old sprinter also bagged bronze in the women’s 4×100 metre race yesterday while breaking the six-year national record for the event.
Ahead of the games, we spoke to the athlete, who is also an Under Armour Ambassador, on developing a fighter mentality, her training essentials, and more.

How did you start your journey into the sport of sprinting and joining the national team?
Zaidatul: At the age of 13, I ventured into the world of sprinting. When I turned 16, I joined the national team with encouragement from my father who is passionate about sports.

Congratulations on your win at the SEA Games so far! In saying that, how do you normally prepare for your big games in terms of your training and lifestyle regimen?
Zaidatul: Thank you for the support and the encouragement. Nowadays, my training is not as tough as it was previously, because I want to avoid potential injuries. Instead, when preparing for SEA Games, I focus my efforts on building mental strength as I believe that having a strong mindset will help you find grit, and learn to persevere as you overcome different challenges which are crucial for any athlete and sportsman out there.

How has Under Armour helped you in your athletic journey?
Zaidatul: As an Under Armour Ambassador, I am blessed with many performance gears and have the benefits of trying out different running, training, and recovery gears that have helped me in my training and preparation for competitions. I am impressed by the innovation and the advanced technology that was incorporated into their performance gears.
Apart from that, I am also inspired by the Under Armour “Protect This House” motto, because it motivates me to have a “team over everything” mentality when I am out in the open field and in every sport or competition that I am in, I am representing my team, my teammates, my turf (Malaysia), my records, my fans, and my integrity. Because of that, I am motivated to give it my all and do my level best for Malaysia.

 Describe what a typical day of a national athlete such as yourself looks like.
Zaidatul: As an athlete, my training schedule comprises nine training sessions per week and Sunday is my Sabbath day where I get a full rest. My training sessions take about three hours per session where I incorporate both track and gym workouts.

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A post shared by Zaidatul Husniah Bt Zulkifli (@adeqpitcher)

You competed at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in the women’s 100 meters event. How was the whole Olympic experience like representing Malaysia on that stage as well as for your own journey as an athlete?
Zaidatul: For an athlete, competing in any Olympics Game is like a dream come true and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their sporting skills on a global stage. During my time at the Olympics, I had the privilege of observing and learning from the world’s most talented athletes, including the legendary Usain Bolt. I got to observe how he did his warm-up routine and how he prepared mentally which included listening to music to calm his nerves.

 What are some of the proudest and biggest moments of your career?
Zaidatul: Winning the two silver medals in both the 100 and 200 meters at the 2017 SEA Games remains one of the proudest and most significant moments of my athletic career. I am proud to be the second woman athlete to have won these two medals in the sprint categories after a decade. The previous winner of these two categories was national athlete G. Shanti in 1997.

Were there any struggles or challenges you faced throughout your career? How did you overcome them?
Zaidatul: As with many careers, there are struggles, challenges, and obstacles that I had to face as an athlete. For me, the biggest one would be the injuries I encountered along the way. This is why I think grit, will and perseverance are important because, with these values, I am able to recover, get up and push myself to overcome the obstacles that come my way.

 What are the three most important core values an athlete needs to have and why?
Zaidatul: In my experience, these three core values are crucial to success: dedication to working hard in everything you do; finding grit and perseverance especially when you are at your lowest; and embracing mistakes, improving, and becoming better. By embodying these values, you can push yourself to new heights, achieve your goals, and become the best version of yourself. Apart from that, I think teamwork is also important because it helps you become a good support to your team, and at the same time you have the right support to get you through your toughest times.

Tell us your pre-game routine to motivate yourself. Is there something, in particular, you always do?
Zaidatul: In preparation for a big game, I usually prioritise my physical and mental well-being by ensuring that I get plenty of rest and consume nutritious foods.

 What do you usually look for to make sure you’re selecting the right gear to work with?
Zaidatul: When it comes to choosing my training gear, my top priorities are always comfort, injury prevention, and having different gears that are designed for a specific focus. That’s why I trust Under Armour, whose innovative gears have helped me to perform at my best without compromising comfort when I am training, running and even recovering. I believe Under Armour’s gear has also played a part in helping to optimise my training regime and achieve peak performance.

While sprinting is often seen as a solo show, athletes should also practice camaraderie and teamwork. What do these two values mean to you?
Zaidatul: Even though sprinting is often seen as a solo sport, as athletes, we do practice together for our training and more importantly they provide the right support system needed to bring one up when they are down or at their lowest. In my field of sport, my team members are those that train and run alongside me and we maintain a good chemistry as we have always worked towards a common goal. And that support is also seen through my fellow Under Armour ambassadors that are made up of different sports athletes. I am always grateful to have my fellow Under Armour Ambassadors support and cheer me on as I compete in any game.
This is why, I think Under Armour’s motto “Protect This House” is essential and a great reminder that, first and foremost we should always have a “team over everything” mentality. And having this right mentality is going to uniformly inspire everyone on the team to work towards greater success and goals.

What are some methods you’ve employed to build a strong sense of teamwork with your own team so that you can work through any possible conflicts or challenges?
Zaidatul: To me, trust is the cornerstone of any successful team. When we trust one another, we can rely on each other to provide support, protection, and encouragement when the going gets tough.
Similar to any team out there, as every team is made up of individuals with different interests, we are bound to not see eye to eye at certain points in our life or career—and that’s okay. This is where trust plays a big role in our team and we have to keep reminding ourselves that we are working towards a common goal, which is to protect our turf, integrity, and above all our team. I believe through this we can work together to overcome any challenges.

Training and over-exertion can be a tricky line to balance for an athlete. How do you make sure that you’re always training in the safest and healthiest way for your body?
Zaidatul: As an athlete, I prioritise injury prevention and always take necessary precautions to avoid exercises that may cause pain or discomfort. With Under Armour’s range of performance gear, I feel confident and secure in my training, knowing that I have the right support needed to stay safe and avoid injury.
I especially love their Training gears (the UA Rush™ range) that are made with innovative Celliant Technology as it captures the energy your body produces during workouts, transforms it into infrared energy, and reflects it into your body. I recommend any everyday athlete out there to try and test their gear to understand how it has helped me in my athletic journey.

 Please share three tips on how people can stay disciplined and motivated in their fitness journey.
Zaidatul: I believe that having grit is important because it helps you to be patient, consistent, and persevere when your fitness journey gets challenging, and eventually, you will see the results. Here’s an additional tip: It is also important to surround yourself with the right people that will make up your team because when you are at your lowest, they will be the best support system you need to motivate you further.

 In your opinion, what does it take to become a top athlete?
Zaidatul: It is important to note that success is rarely achieved overnight, be it in sports, career, or life. If you go into a sport with an unrealistic expectation that you will become a top athlete overnight, you will end up with disappointment.
This is where you need to trust the process, have the right mentality, persevere, and surround yourself with the right team members that will motivate you on your path. Always remember that you have a purpose and always set reasonable milestones for yourself that you can unlock along the way. If you are determined, you will unlock different milestones along the way and eventually become successful.

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