Makeup
Beauty edit: 6 Vibrant new lippies to cop for the summer season
Tried and tested

19.06.2023
By Redzhanna Jazmin

Image: Fenty Beauty

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We’ve searched far and wide for the best lippies to rock for the summer and we think we’ve finally found them—here’s our tried and tested edit.
It’s time for another beauty haul! As we enter the summer months, we’re welcoming in all things bright, warm and vibrant. Ahead, Team BURO Beauty has curated the most sensational pigments and formulations from this year that will make your pout pop and get the temperature soaring.
Whether you’re chilling poolside or hitting the rooftop parties, these lip essentials will have heads turning. From Fenty Beauty’s new limited-edition launch to Shiseido’s high-impact bullet, find our full review roundup ahead:

Chanel
Rouge Allure Velvet, RM170

“There’s a red for every occasion and Chanel’s Rouge Allure Velvet has become my go-to since it can range from the Intemporelle (60), a gorgeous soft nude for everyday wear, to Mysterieuse (72), a dark berry red for bolder looks. Those two are my personal favourites! Surprisingly, the colours look lighter or darker than they are once I’ve applied them on my lips but the good news is that they’re buildable, long-wearing and so easy to apply. Infused with castor oil and shea butter, the lipstick feels like second skin upon application, and yet, it’s resilient enough to last through meals and masks—but touch-ups are still necessary if you want the perfect pout in its full, glorious colour. After a meal, it just looks a little lighter in colour. The Rouge Allure Velvet collection features 20 key shades, all equal parts matte and luminous.”  — Rachel Au, Consulting Editorial Director

Fenty Beauty
Summatime Collection Icon Lipstick (Limited Edition)

“Fenty fans, rejoice! Rihanna has come through with three new Fenty Icon Lipstick shades for her summer-exclusive collection: Nosy Rosy, an orangey-red; Miss Candy Venom, a vibrant magenta pink; and Tropic Doll, a hot fuschia pink. I’ve found that while these look great on their own, I prefer to layer them under the Gloss Bomb lip glosses so I can intensify or tone down the shades according to my mood. Plus, layering it this way adds a must-needed boost of hydration to soothe and smooth my dry lips. The long-wearing and highly pigmented formulation is already a win, but the ultra-luxe case makes this a must-buy for me! The satisfying Icon case now comes in a limited-edition orange and pink ombré design that’ll be sure to add some pizzazz to your everyday essentials.” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Senior Beauty Writer
Shop Fenty Icon Sunkiss’D The Case (RM80) here and Fenty Icon Semi-Matte Refillable Lipstick Fills (RM115) here.

Shiseido
TechnoSatin Gel Lipstick

“If you’re looking for a satin lipstick that feels weightless yet moisturising on your skin, look no further! I’ve been using the Shiseido TechnoSatin Gel Lipstick in the shade Heat Map, and I’ve really been loving it. Not only is the colour beautifully pigmented (I’m a huge fan of this bold orange), but it’s also really hydrating and comfortable despite being long-lasting. It’s definitely not transfer-proof, but I will say that the impact of the colour did not fade, even after a few smooches and a couple of blots onto a tissue. Plus, there are plenty more pretty shades to choose from!” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Senior Beauty Writer
Shop Shiseido’s TechnoSatin Gel Lipstick here.

Kittie Yiyi Beauty
247 Lipstick in Love

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A post shared by KITTIEYIYIBEAUTY (@kittieyiyibeauty)

“My lips are often dry regardless of how much lip balm I use (and I use a lot), so I tend to avoid liquid lipsticks like the plague—especially matte liquid lipsticks. That is until I tried Kittie Yiyi’s 247 Lipstick. I used the shade Love, which the brand describes as a “Wild Adzuki Ruby”. It’s much more pigmented than I expected and has a consistency that is almost as watery as lip tints, making it super lightweight. Not only that, but it also blends beautifully, dries down creamy, and lasts all day—you’d best believe I’ll be getting the other shades as well. If Kittie Yiyi is reading this, it’s too good to only have three shades!” — Phyll Wu, Editorial Assistant
Shop Kittie Yiyi Beauty’s 247 Lipstick here, RM68.

Anastasia Beverly Hills
Tinted Lip Gloss

“For those who aren’t so keen on bright lippies but are still looking to rep summer shades in a low-key way, Anastasia Beverly Hills has just launched 12 new shades of the fan-favourite Tinted Lip Gloss. Most of the glosses are on the subtler, nude-toned side, but the shades Cotton Candy, Coral and Pink Ginger are warm, vibrant and shimmery—they’ll effortlessly zhush up your pout for the season. The glosses are sheer but definitely buildable, and they’ll leave your lips looking extra juicy.” — Redzhanna Jazmin, Senior Beauty Writer
Shop Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Tinted Lip Gloss here.

Make Up For Ever
Rouge Artist Velvet Nude in 320 Cheerful Goji

“A velvet lipstick that’s creamy, pigmented, infused with hyaluronic acid, boasts a 10-hour wear, and has a soft, comfortable finish? Yes, please! If you’re looking for a lightweight velvet matte lipstick that you can wear every day, Make Up For Ever’s Rouge Artist Velvet Nude lipsticks are the way to go. It’s not the most kissproof, but I just love how the formulation feels. This shade is the most daring in this nude collection, so if you’re not yet ready to branch out for the summer colour-wise, it’s a great place to start.” — Phyll Wu, Editorial Assistant
Shop Make Up For Ever’s Rouge Artist Velvet Nude Lipstick (RM118) here.

For more makeup reads like this, click here.

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Culture
Know your fashion A-Z with Louis Vuitton’s new book

06.08.2018
By Joan Kong

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Did you know that although Louis Vuitton was founded in 1854, the brand only started producing women’s ready-to-wear collections 144 years later, in 1998? Now, to mark the 20th year, the French fashion house is launching its first-ever book that highlights the years of collections under two artistic directors—Marc Jacobs (who took the helm from 1998 to 2013) and Nicolas Ghesquière, who is still with the brand. Made up of 632 pages and 1,350 images, the work from both designers will be presented via runway photography, and among them, are snippets of its famed collaborations with artists such as Takashi Murakami, Richard Prince and Stephen Sprouse. The introduction of the book was written by the Fashion Editor at the Financial Times, Jo Ellison, and the collection texts are by Louise Rytter, who was previously the Assistant Curator at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Scroll through the gallery below for a sneak peek of the book:
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The book is now available in the Louis Vuitton stores in Malaysia.

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Culture
Summer reading: 7 Page-turners to keep you engrossed and enriched during the sunshine season

17.07.2020
By Kelly Lim

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Whether you’re chilling at the park, off on a short but sweet city staycation or simply staying in bed with the AC on full blast, books are the ideal companion to keep you stimulated and satisfied during the sticky, sweaty season (there’s a reason why more books are sold during summer than any other time of the year—and for us, that’s every day). Whatever genre you prefer, here are some of the books we’ll be burying our noses into for the next few months:

If I Had Your Face by Frances Cha

A universal tale about the restorative power of female friendships, If I Had Your Face explores the relationship women have with themselves and others in a hyper-competitive world defined by impossible standards of beauty and expectations. Set in glittery contemporary Seoul, Cha’s riveting debut book follows four young women with different backgrounds and dreams as their lives intertwine amidst heartless social hierarchies, all-consuming K-pop mania and never-ending challenges in a city where plastic surgery is the norm and status can change your life.
Shop now: Kinokuniya | Amazon
Oval by Elvia Wilk

Set in a near-future Berlin, Oval follows millennial scientist Anja who lives with her boyfriend Louis in a (rent-free) eco-friendly housing project located at the side of an artificial mountain, run by huge tech corporation Finster. There, real estate has been transformed in the name of “sustainability”—only to make it even more unaffordable—creatives hold ambiguous roles as consultants to big businesses and the weather is acting strange. Wilk’s dystopian sci-fi debut feels uncannily familiar with real-life, painting a searing portrait of modern society, and where we may be heading, to remind us of the inequality that shapes our world and the unfaltering promise of a better one through the way things are sold.
Shop now: Amazon
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

A tale of twin sisters born in the Jim Crow South, The Vanishing Half is an important meditation on the complexities of racial identity, freedom and belonging in America through generations of one family against the intertwining, inescapable influence of historical and social reality. The Vignes sisters are identical but after running away at the age of sixteen, they take very divergent paths to adulthood, with one passing for white in Los Angeles while the other raises her Black daughter in the same Southern town she tried to escape. Propulsive, thought-provoking and with HBO recently winning the rights to turn it into a limited series, Bennett’s second novel is a must-read about what it means to be and who we want to be whilst negotiating a place in a world fraught with issues of privilege, trauma and insurmountable inequality.
Shop now: Amazon
Sex and Vanity by Kevin Kwan

Crazy Rich Asians author Kwan is back with another tale of privilege, seduction and decadence through a new world seen through the eyes of Lucie Churchill, a half-Chinese, half-white woman who grew up in the upper echelons of New York’s wealthy and finds herself torn between two men: the fiancé of her family’s dreams and George Zao, a man she can’t stand but can’t help herself feeling drawn to. A homage to E.M. Forster’s A Room With a View, the novel explores identity and self-discovery while being torn between two cultures and is already on its way to becoming another cinematic blockbuster.
Shop now: Amazon | MPH Online
Rainbow Milk by Paul Mendez

London-based writer Paul Mendez engrosses with his semi-autobiographical debut novel, Rainbow Milk which follows the journey of Jesse McCarthy, a young black gay man with a Jehovah’s Witness upbringing, as he struggles to make sense of the world and turns to sex work in London to redefine love, fatherhood and spirituality for himself. Set against the backdrop of the legacies of the Windrush generation, the intersectional coming-of-age tale explores race, religious and sexuality across generations and class in the UK through an original, vital voice for the current age.
Shop now: Amazon
Intimations by Zadie Smith

One of the most critically-respected writers of her generation, Zadie Smith spent her months during lockdown capturing the uneasiness of our modern moment into words. Musing on isolation priorities to the global response towards George Floyd’s death, Intimations is a series of six essays set to be released over the next month that reflects on the COVID-19 pandemic and everything that happened so far, exploring important ideas and questions prompted by the unprecedented situation. Smith’s power of observation and inimitable voice, as exemplified through her short fiction collection Grand Union (2019) and modern classic White Teeth (2000), make for an urgent perspective to think about what has happened and what should happen next.
Shop now: Amazon
Burnt Sugar by Avni Doshi

Another highly-anticipated book about women in the modern world, Burnt Sugar brings us to India to portray the strained relationship between a mother, Tara whose memory is disappearing due to dementia, and her daughter, Antara through a cathartic examination of familial bonds as they navigate societal expectations and traumas of both the past and present. A tale about love, betrayal and the ties that bind us for the rest of our lives, American-Indian writer Avni Doshi charts the complicated dynamics between the women as they search for the truth in the secrets and memories of their shared past.
Shop now: Amazon

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Style
Fashion buzz: Animal Crossing gets a Valentino spin, Dior Starhill and KLCC reopen in the conditional MCO, and more

04.05.2020
By Stephanie Boey

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Animal Crossing gets a Valentino makeover

Is it just us or is everyone playing Animal Crossing while in quarantine? Makes sense though, since it’s probably the only way we can interact with each other while we self-isolate. Well, if you happen to be one of those coping during this difficult time with Nintendo’s wholesome game, we have more reason for you to keep playing. Valentino has collaborated with @animalcrossingfashionarchive in celebration of the fashion house’s Spring/Summer 2020 and Pre-Fall 2020 collections. Dress your avatars in the season’s latest. Click here to access the codes!
Dior stores reopen in conditional MCO

Malaysia’s conditional MCO officially starts on Monday, 4 May. To quote our Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, “almost all economic sectors will be allowed to open with conditions. This is important as business and work is a source of income. If we are under MCO for too long, we will not get any income and this will have a negative impact on our finances”. In light of this, Dior will subsequently be reopening their Starhill and KLCC stores on the same day, on Monday, 4 May with the Spring/Summer 2020 collection. Should you wish to pay the stores a visit, please remember to practise social distancing and safety first!
Jacquemus presents his Spring/Summer 2020 collection via FaceTime

Trust the creatives in fashion to find a way to work around a fashion shoot. Traditionally, photographer, stylist, model, makeup artist and hairstylist are all required to be in the same location, but not in the age of pandemic. Jacquemus engaged photographer Pierre Ange-Carlotti to shoot the Spring/Summer 2020 campaign via FaceTime…and the results are fantastic! During our BURO Hangouts Live session with Malaysian model Sheena Liam, she revealed that the photo quality on FaceTime is really good, granted you have a strong WiFi connection. Knowing this, perhaps we can all try a hand at fashion photography know?
Saint Laurent reshapes their schedule

The British Fashion Council announced that London Fashion Week would be going digital and gender-neutral last week. Following suit in radical change is Saint Laurent, by taking charge of their fashion schedule. The French fashion house will no longer present at any of the pre-set schedules of 2020. The press statement says, “Saint Laurent will take ownership of its calendar and launch its collections following a plan conceived with an up-to-date perspective, driven by creativity.” A change in times calls for a radical change in perspectives. Saint Laurent’s spectacular fashion shows with the Eiffel Tower in the background will be missed, but nevertheless exciting times ahead for the future of fashion!
Gucci joins The Lion’s Share Fund

Since February 2020, Gucci joined The Lion’s Share Fund, an initiative that raises funds to protect endangered species and their natural habitats. Gucci says, “Animals appear in approximately 20% of all advertisements in the world, yet despite this, animals do not always receive the support they deserve”. By joining The Lion’s Share Fund, Gucci has pledged to donate 0.5% of its media spend every time an animal is featured in an advertisement. We’re all in support for any help to our furry friends!
Bremen Wong creates sculptural avant garde masks

Last week, we shared the news that local designer Cassey Gan’s signature prints would be attainable with affordable face masks. This week, milliner and accessory designer Bremen Wong is taking the pandemic’s most necessary accessory by creating one-of-a-kind sculptural pieces. Known for his unusual organic shapes and long, meticulous procedures, the masks are part of a collector’s series. More of a sculpture rather than one for function, the works of art are for sale, with part of the proceeds going to MODA Malaysia and their efforts in sewing PPE to our frontliners.
Also related: Inside the Atelier with Bremen Wong

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Beauty
#BuroBrides: Pro wedding beauty tips every bride-to-be needs to know
Bridal beauty 101

25.04.2018
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Got burgeoning questions related to bridal makeup you’ve always wanted to ask a pro? Whether it’s lash extensions for a wedding look to beauty faux pas for brides-to-be, we got the lowdown from self-taught makeup artist Ummi Nasir on everything you need to know when it comes to bridal beauty. Scroll down to find out the most important questions you ought to be asking your makeup artist before your big day:
What are the most important questions that brides should ask any makeup artist before their wedding?
Every bride is different — some have sensitive, dry or acne-prone skin while others are blessed with healthy, glowing skin. It’s always important to ask your makeup artist for her portfolio so you can go through her past work and to find out if it suits your style. In addition to that, ask them about their rates, whether they are able to travel to your wedding venue (not forgetting to discuss travel expenses if applicable) and what products they will be using on that day.
I have had some brides who have sensitive skin and are allergic to certain products, so it’s really essential to communicate from the get-go with your makeup artist.
What are some beauty tricks you use to make sure the bridal makeup stays all day long, and are sweat-proof and tear-proof?
I think the most imperative goal for us bridal makeup artists is to ensure that the bridal makeup stays all day long! For me, the makeup baseis the most important part of the look. A beautiful base goes a long way to make sure brides’ makeup last throughout the day.
I keep it light (one to two layers would suffice) when applying full coverage foundations. With our humid climate, it is better to have a light and subtle complexion instead of a thick base that will crack two to three hours post-application. For my brides, my personal go-to products are NARS Longwear Foundation and Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation.
How do you go about recommending a look to a bride who isn’t sure of what makeup she wants for her wedding?
To be honest, most of the brides I’ve worked with know exactly what they want when they approach me (laughs). Thanks to social media, Pinterest and beauty websites, they mostly have an idea of their perfect bridal makeup look.
For brides who are not sure of what makeup to go for during her wedding, I always suggest a bronzed, natural look with subtle contouring and highlight, along with a nude, coral or light pink lip colour. I think it is perfect for brides who want to look demure yet classy on their wedding day. Plus, this look is timeless — you’d want to gloss through your wedding album in the next 20 years and still be in love with your makeup as you did on your wedding day.

What are some of the more popular bridal makeup looks lately? Is the all-natural look still popular, or is there a trend right now?
The all-natural look is definitely still popular. It’s an evergreen look and to me, it is important to look like the most beautiful version of yourself on your big day, instead of someone else with exaggerated, overdone makeup.
I would suggest bold eyes if your wedding look incorporates a songket or more glamorous evening gown, but it needs to be balanced out with light makeup for the rest of your face. This is so that you won’t look overdone, but still look beautiful, classy and elegant on your big day.
What is the most important beauty advice you can give a bride-to-be?
Keep hydrating! This goes for brides-to-be who are planning their wedding from months before. Drinking a lot of water works wonders for your skin. Also, do schedule monthly professional facials with your beautician to remove all impurities from your pores, boost hydration and  to stimulate blood circulation.
Don’t forget to take good care of your skin on a daily basis — remember to wear sunscreen (SPF 50+) everyday to avoid dullness to your skin. If you are busy and can’t find time for facials, I find that it helps to deep cleanse your face with a hydrating mask twice a week. My current favourite is Fresh’s Hydrating Rose Mask.
What is one memorable bridal look of yours?
This happened last year, and my bride had a severe acne breakout on her big day. She had a tad too many facial treatments near to her wedding, and unfortunately her skin started reacting against it. It is advisable for brides-to-be to refrain from indulging in facials a month before your big day, just in case your skin needs recovery from the treatment. As a makeup artist, I always try my best to enhance your best features so I was actually quite happy that we managed to cover her scars. In the end, she looked amazingly radiant on her big day.
What are your go-to makeup products to achieve that glowing, highlighted complexion that all your brides have?
I always start with a good base, along with a hydrating and glow primer on my brides. My favourite is the Radiance Foundation Primer from Laura Mercier — it creates a smooth, flawless canvas before applying foundation. For beautifully highlighted complexion, I use the Pro Light Fusion Highlighter from Make Up For Ever. It has a creamy gel-powder texture that naturally enhances your features for that luminous glow.
Do you usually offer a trial run for your brides before their big day? Is this something you would recommend brides-to-be?
I will only give a trial run upon request. Usually, they will go through my makeup portfolio and tell me which look they prefer and I will give them advice accordingly (whether it suits their features, style, and overall theme). But for other makeup artists, it is advisable to book a trial run with them to determine if the look you want for your wedding suits you or otherwise.
Also, do share with them if you have any skin sensitivities, products that suit your skin best etc. You may have to adjust your budget slightly because there will be some charges incurred for the trial look, but I think the cost is justified as it is your big day after all, and you would want everything to be perfect.

Lash extensions vs false eyelashes — what are your thoughts on both for a wedding look?
Eyelashes are pretty much one of the most important elements of a bridal makeup look. Feathery eyelashes are still a trend now and I think it complements Asian eyes (whether hooded or round) the best as it makes the eyes stand out. I prefer my brides to wear false eyelashes instead of lash extensions.
One, because it is easier for the makeup artist to apply your eye makeup. Two, false lashes have more customisable options to choose from. I can customise lashes either with one strip of false lashes or individual lashes for a natural fluttery look. But for brides who are not comfortable with false lashes, I will usually apply three to four coats of mascara for that eye-opening effect.
What are some of the beauty faux pas that brides should never commit when it comes to their bridal look?
Some brides tend to follow trends a little too much without considering if the trend will suit their look. An example is the makeup look inspired by K-pop idols (this was when the K-pop wave hit Malaysia years ago). Some of my brides had requested for Korean-inspired makeup, which didn’t really suit their features. Again, my advice is to go for natural, glowing makeup that enhances your beauty, and is a classic look that you’d want to wear even on your 20th wedding anniversary.

Follow Ummi Nasir here on Instagram.

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Technology
Apple unveils a new iPad which works with the Apple Pencil
9.7-inches of greatness

28.03.2018
By Rachel Au

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Apple ended their education event with a lot of huge announcements but just because you’re not in school (tertiary, secondary or lower) doesn’t mean it’s not for you. The star of the event is undoubtedly the new “affordable” iPad with stylus support. The Apple Pencil which was previously only iPad Pro-friendly is now compatible with the smaller tablet.

The new iPad may be painted as an education-specific gadget but really, it applies to anyone with a burning desire to learn, to create and to work. At 9.7 inches, it’s a neat size for people on-the-go as compared to the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (with its glorious, lucid screen that can almost replace your laptop). Don’t get us wrong. Visuals on the new iPad look gorgeous too with its large Retina display and since it runs on the A10 fusion chip (the same one on the iPhone 7) paired with a more recent M10 motion co-processor, you can bet it’s fast in response as well. Both of the said features make AR experiences simply incredible.

Like every gadget out there, the camera is an important buying factor. On the new iPad, it sports an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 1.2-megapixel HD front camera. The former is great for video recordings, amateur photography and document scanning, while the latter for FaceTime calls; but both offer a steady low-light performance. Versatile, powerful, compatible with the Apple Pencil and with a battery life of 10 hours, there’s more that you can do with the new iPad.

The new iPad comes in silver, space gray and a new gold finish. It’s expected to be available in Malaysia either in April or May. For a gauge of the pricing, we’ve noted down Singapore’s recommended retail price: S$498 for the 32GB with Wi-Fi model and S$698 for the 32GB Wi-Fi + Cellular model.
For more info, visit Apple Malaysia’s website.

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Food + Drink
Food Review: Béni @ Sky Avenue, Genting Highlands

05.02.2020
By Ronn Tan

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I was just scrolling through my phone one night when I stumbled upon a post on Instagram. It struck a chord with me because of two things. One, Beni is the name of a very special friend of mine. Secondly, the post says that Béni Singapore will open a Malaysian outpost really soon. Thoroughly excited, I sure was. However, I was taken aback when I realised that the restaurant will be situated all the way up in Genting Highland (Sky Avenue, to be specific). Ambitious, enthusiastic, determined, and maybe, risky.

Beni Malaysia at Genting
A little lowdown on Béni: Helmed by Chef de Cuisine Kenji Yamanaka in Singapore, the restaurant specialises in Japanese reinterpretation of authentic French cuisine. From 2016 to 2019, Béni Singapore was awarded the prestigious one-Michelin star at the Michelin Star Awards. Béni Malaysia’s kitchen is spearheaded by none other than Head Chef Shiro Onishi. The design of the contemporary French-Japanese restaurant is also something to marvel at—from elegant marble tables to classy ceiling decorations.

Beni Malaysia menu
I had the opportunity to dine at Béni Malaysia and you better believe I took it. On the very night that I was there, many major stars were present too; from Ning Baizura to Sazzy Falak to Dr Soo Wincci. Let’s just say I was massively starstruck and that feeling continued with the food. Before I proceed with the food review, let me just say that I was thoroughly impressed (I was even raving about how this was one of my best meals of the year). Well, without further ado, these are my favourite dishes from Béni Malaysia.

Osetra Caviar at Beni Malaysia
The first dish I tried was Osetra Caviar with Gold Leaf and egg yolk confit. There is no better way to kick off an opulent meal in the skies than the amalgamation of caviar and gold leaf. These ingredients connote luxury and they definitely did set the mood. The dish consisted of Norwegian Osetra caviar, female sturgeon, and egg yolk at the bottom. I was told that the best way to absorb the full glory of the dish was to scoop everything at once. And I did.
On first bite (or swallow rather), I get a combination a burst of saccharine. The well-known mild bitterness of egg yolk did break the ice, however—in a good way. It’s a mixture of briny and acerbic. The richness of the dish in general was quite ambrosial. What I really enjoyed was the nutty and buttery (on top of saline) flavours of the caviar. It was a brilliant move using Osetra caviar to elevate the dish. Alright, I am excited and ready to feast on the next dish!

Mushroom Quartet at Beni Malaysia
Next came the Mushroom Quartet. No, it’s not just another mushroom soup although it does seem like one. With quartet in its name, it is only obvious that it contains four types of mushroom—maitake, enoki, button mushroom, and shimeji. Four different profiles to form an intricately powerful group of musicians. To give the dish a touch of luxury, black truffle was added into the mix. When the dish was first placed on the table, it did seem like I was about to indulge in thick, creamy mushroom soup. Boy was I utterly wrong. It wasn’t soup, it resembled chawan mushi instead. Yes, it was a surprise!
What can you expect from the dish that is said to have won Béni its Michelin star? True bliss, I’d say. True bliss, indeed. The way the different species of toadstools harmonised was akin to Celine Dion’s live vocals; on point. It’s lush, slightly piquant, and stimulating. It is also rather filling because of the luscious consistency. Calling the Mushroom Quartet dish gustatory would be an understatement.

Amadai fish at Beni Malaysia
One of Béni’s most popular dishes is Amadai. It is also known as Chef Kenji’s signature dish. Prepared in the Matsukasayaki style, scales which are left on the fish are then fried to a crisp. You will notice that they resemble pine cones. Seasonal touches are given to the Japanese branquillo; hence, the concoction I tried came with eggplants and dashi (fish stock). The soup consisted of shimeji mushrooms, king oyster mushrooms, lemon, cardamom, basil, pork leg, and white pepper. These ingredients were given the important mission to beat Thanos intensify the overall flavour profile of the dish. With a fork on my left hand and a spoon on the other, I dug into the creation with high expectations. The soup was toothsome and full of character. I really liked that it was so light yet has so much life.
As for the fish, here’s what I enjoyed and what I didn’t. The flesh was soft, tender, and really delicious. The addition of the dashi really did create a multi-dimensional meal. However, it would have been a major force to reckon with if the scales were crispier. Don’t get me wrong—the dish was still good and the Chefs need to be given credit for their undeniable skills. I’m looking forward to trying different ways of preparing the amadai fish.

A5 Wagyu at Beni Malaysia
Growing up, my parents would always repeat: “never refuse a good offer”. Now, the phrase is joyfully embedded into my state of mind. Who am I kidding—I was not about to turn down a plate of A5 Wagyu. I would have been an embarrassment to my family, friends, and society. Alright, that’s an exaggeration but you get what I mean. The last main course was the glorious A5 Wagyu that was imported from Shiga Prefecture in Japan. The dish came with potato purée as the base, madeira wine sauce, and some vegetables. I love all things beef (including sashimi and tartare). It is easy to picture my excitement when I first saw this on the menu.
What is it about the steak that stuck with me? It wasn’t just the succulent and rich body of meat that melted in my mouth. Yes, the Wagyu was everything I could have wished for—tender, cooked to perfection, and utterly delightful. The madeira wine sauce stole the show, in my opinion. Its thick and dulcified consistency (plus the really robust smell of wine) had a plethora of fascinating flavours that complemented the beef so well.

Beni Malaysia interior
These are my favourite dishes from my time at Béni Malaysia. As usual, there were hits and misses (more of the former than the latter). What I’m thoroughly concerned about is its location. Does Béni’s food warrant a drive all the way to Genting Highland? It’s a yes for me but it certainly isn’t the case for many Malaysians. Béni Malaysia looks at this predicament as a challenge and it will be interesting to see how things fare in the future. What’s certain is that their food is top notch and definitely worth checking out. For now, bon appétit and itadakimasu.

Address: Lot T2-19, Level T2, SkyAvenue, Genting Highlands
Opening Hours:
Lunch Section—12pm and 1.30pm
Dinner Section—6pm and 8pm
Contact: 03 6101 3001
Website | Facebook | Instagram

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Beauty
How to: Gisele Bundchen’s head-turning beauty look at the Met Gala 2018
Golden glow

08.05.2018
By Wei Yeen Loh

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If you’ve seen all the OTT looks on the red carpet of the Met Gala 2018 (along with captivating hair and makeup looks to go with it), it’s safe to say that celebrities definitely had their dream team backing them to a tee yesterday evening. Hollywood’s finest hair and makeup professionals got their hands busy all night long, creating stunning looks worthy of their heavenly ensembles. One of our favourites is Hung Vanngo, the talented makeup artist behind celebrities’ including Selena Gomez and Gisele Bundchen. Below, the Kiehl’s consulting celebrity makeup artist shares his beauty sheet with us on getting Gisele’s makeup look:
SKINCARE
1. Gisele’s skin was cleansed with Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash, then exfoliated the skin with Kiehl’s Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub.
2. After rinsing off the product and drying off the face with a towel, the skin was treated with an extra boost of hydration courtesy of the Kiehl’s Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Mask, leaving it on her face for five minutes.
3. Post mask, the skin was patted down with Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner, and finished off with Ultra Facial Cream. A dollop of Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado was applied around the eye area, and her lips were moisturised with Lip Balm #1.

MAKEUP
“After the skin was prepped with skincare, I applied a little bit of Marc Jacobs Beauty Coconut Primer. A sheer application of Marc Beauty Shameless Foundation in shade ‘Y370’ was used all over. For any areas that needed extra coverage, I used Re(Marc)able Concealer in ‘Glow.’ To add radiance, I tapped a bit of Dew Drops Coconut Gel Highlighter in “Fantasy” on top of the cheekbones, and then I dusted a bit of Finish Line Perfecting Coconut Setting Powder over the face to set the complexion. For a little color and warmth, I used a combination of Air Blush in ‘Lines & Last Night’ and O!Mega Bronzer in ‘Tan Tastic.'”
1. For eyes, apply a wash of gold eyeshadow from the Edgitorial Eye-conic palette all over the lid (and all the way up to the brow bone) and under the lashes.
2. Use the New Glam Glitter Eye Gel Crayon in ‘Glitterbug’ along the upper lash line and softly smudged the outer line. Build the thickness and repeat the smudging process. After that, add a tight upper lash line by using same eyeliner pencil, then intensify and gradually build up the color and slightly elongate the eyes by pulling shadows and eyeliner into the outer corner of the eye.
3. Add green eyeshadow from the same palette on lower lash line in subtle strokes, then blend well. Apply New Glam Glitter Eye Gel Crayon in ‘All That Glitters’ on the lower waterline. Complete the look with the Velvet Noir Mascara on the top lashes, and Feather Noir Mascara on the lower lashes.
4. Fill in the brows with short strokes of Brow Wow in ‘Taupe’ and ‘Ash Brown,’ and brush them into place with Brow Tamer Gel.
5. Outline the lips with Poutliner in ‘Oh! Cocoa,’ and then apply a coat of Le Marc Lip Crème in ‘Shakedown.’ To help the makeup last all evening, set it with Coconut Setting Mist.

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Fashion
Stella McCartney debuts first men’s collection with a film (featuring Cillian Murphy)
A walk in the woods

09.06.2017
By Wei Yeen Loh

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Stella McCartney debuted her first menswear collection this Autumn/Winter 2017 last week, rolling out tailored jackets and suits that paid homage to the Seventies while staying true to her eco-conscious signature. Similar to her womenswear collections, the men’s range is created from sustainable fabrics and materials, from recycled polyester and nylon to sustainable viscose. In conjunction with the release, the British designer sought the expertise of director Sean Ellis for a short film to highlight key pieces from the collection. Irish actor Cillian Murphy (best known for his roles in The Dark Knight trilogy and Red Eye) is the star of the short, looking dazed as he traipses across the woods and stumbles upon a mysterious cabin. The dark, brooding undertones of the film is complemented with an equally eerie soundtrack, created by none other than the designer’s father, Paul McCartney.

Check out the film, titled Black Park here:

Take a look at Stella McCartney’s first menswear collection:
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Fashion gets political: 10 best moments

Style
Fashion gets political: 10 best moments

03.06.2019
By Stephanie Boey

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Food + Drink
Farm-to-table: What does it really mean and which restaurants in KL are doing it
Eat local

18.04.2017
By Rachel Au

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Farm-to-table — also known as farm-to-fork and farm-to-school — is a social movement and concept where eateries use ingredients and food sourced from local farmers (be it a winery, ranch, fishery or any other type of food producer that does not strictly have to be a ‘farm’), or grown in their own backyard.

The point is to promote knowing where your food comes from and ensuring it’s safe (void of a ‘lifestyle’ enhanced by pesticides, artificial chemicals or hormones) and fresh. In some cases, it’s also to help support small family farms. At least that was Alice Waters’ honourable purpose when she started listing the names of farms on the menu of a restaurant in Berkeley called Chez Panisse. It was one of the few restaurants that pioneered the movement and made the cause more known — considering farm-to-table restaurants have technically existed for decades but perhaps minus the shiny label that has since become a buzzword.

In fact, the concept of farm-to-table is oversaturated in countries like America and Australia to the point where it’s redundant to even include the term in the restaurant’s ‘About’ description. Even fast food chains (an example would be McDonald’s in Britain which at one time was advertising that “Over 17,500 British & Irish Farmers Supply Our Ingredients”) had jumped on the bandwagon.

It has gone viral. And it has become so commercialised that the true message is lost in translation. However, perhaps not so in Malaysia. Farm-to-table is still in its raw stages — or at least not many restaurants openly advocate that they are practising it. Or perhaps not enough people talk about it. Or perhaps there’s really no need to publicise something that should already been put into practice — especially since most fruits and vegetables are capable of growing in Malaysia’s climate. But for the number of restaurants that do, which are countable with two hands, it certainly sets them apart in our supremely competitive food scene. We previously listed some of the most noteworthy farm-to-table restaurants in KL such as Sitka and Roost so here are a few new additions that you can, and should, try.

A little farm on the hill

It’s not exactly within the Klang Valley but A little farm on the hill is  definitely worth the one-hour journey to Tanarimba. The place is beautiful, lush with greenery and open to farm tours. Around 90 varieties of vegetables, herbs and fruits are grown organically at this quaint farm that supplies to restaurants such as Sitka and Dewakan. But otherwise, guests can enjoy a long table gourmet lunch at their Dining Room. There are three set menus here — meat, vegetarian and smoked meat — with a starting price of RM180 per person.
Lot 161 Tanarimba Janda Baik, Persiaran Enderong, 28750 Bentong

Garden to Table

Co-author of Grow, Cook and Eat and food stylist CY Phang runs Garden to Table, a private kitchen and bakery that is only open on Saturdays, from 12pm till 6pm. And the place is just flourishing with Phang’s passion for growing edibles (there’s an edible garden with over 100 types of plants) and practising sustainability (no plastic straws and no disposable containers). Every dish has been critically acclaimed as delicious and most ingredients have either been grown from the garden or personally made (like the preserved salted eggs and crisp sourdough bread) in that single-storey bungalow. Guests are advised to make a reservation before visiting while baked goods can be preordered for takeaways.
1, Lorong 14/37b, Seksyen 14, 46100 Petaling Jaya

Table & Apron

Table & Apron was once known as The Kitchen Table. The change came about when owner Marcus Low felt an overhaul was in order to elevate themselves more as a restaurant. The food is still amazing and while it isn’t branded as ‘farm-to-table’ (or wholly practises it), Low has mentioned that the restaurant uses as many local ingredients as possible, including meats and seafood which he gets regularly from the Taman Tun Dr Ismail wet market. Origins of the ingredients aside, Low and his team have carefully, and brilliantly, created a menu of dishes that you won’t find elsewhere. The fried chicken here is still a huge hit and the pork ragu with tagliatelle comes highly recommended.
23, Jalan SS 20/11, Damansara Kim, 47400 Petaling Jaya

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How to spend a long weekend in Kyoto

Travel
How to spend a long weekend in Kyoto
Japan's thousand-year capital

12.10.2017
By WanderLuxe

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Once the capital city, this place is a cultural heartland where the Japanese themselves go to see the true, ancient Japan. And the icing on the matcha cake is that Kyoto’s highlights can be explored in just a few days. Our guide to spending a long weekend in Kyoto will have you saying “miso happy” in no time.

1. Traditional ryokans (or luxury hybrid ones!)

More than just a place to sleep, ryokans are an opportunity to experience true Japanese culture, hospitality and service. But don’t expect the modern comforts of a Western-style hotel, ryokans are comprised of minimalist tatami mat-rooms. You will be expected to trade your clothes and shoes for Japanese-style robes and slippers; sleep on traditional Japanese futon bedding; and indulge in a multi-course kaiseki dinner. If you’re eager to experience an urban ryokan, Kyoto is the best place to do so. We stayed at Arashiyama Benkei, which contains its very own Japanese hot spring (also known as an onsen). Immersing yourself in these hot baths can be both therapeutic and just downright interesting—mainly because bathing suits are strictly not allowed!

2. The Bamboo Forest

Located in Arashiyama, the Bamboo Forest has been labelled as one of the most beautiful groves on earth. Whilst the beauty of its towering and interconnected green stalks is what had us lusting for a visit, it is actually listed as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan” set by the Japanese Ministry of Environment. This is due to the interplay of eery and unique sounds created by the rustling and bending bamboo as it sways in the wind. Be sure to get there early though. You’ll want to avoid the onslaught of photographers keen to get a shot of this natural wonder.

3. Sushi, of course!

A little-known fact about sushi is that it has various regional styles such as the Kyoto-style sushi offered by the restaurants Izuju and Izuu in Kyoto’s famous Gion district. Centuries ago, Kyoto had a tough time acquiring fresh food, so Kyoto-style sushi had to incorporate a lot of cured fish. Give the sabazushi a try—pickled mackerel with sushi rice. Our favourite was the inarizushi—sushi rice in pockets of sweet beancurd skin simmered in a traditional hearth.

4. The main shrines and temples

In a city with over 2,000 shrines and temples, beggars really can be choosers. Perhaps the single most iconic sight in all of Kyoto is the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine. Dedicated to the gods of rice and sake in the 8th century, this magical shrine is comprised of a seemingly unending path of over 5,000 vibrant orange torii gates. And if navigating your way through this maze doesn’t take your fancy, head to Kamigamo-jinja Shrine instead; the perfect sanctuary for those seeking calm and solace.

5. Geishas

Of course, no trip to Kyoto is complete without having spotted a real-life geisha. Though they can be found throughout Japan, Kyoto is considered the birthplace of geisha culture. Gion Centre is where you’ll want to be but you’ll need some serious luck (tracking down a geisha is like finding a needle in the proverbial haystack)! If playing “Where’s Wally” isn’t your idea of a good time, then arrange for a private geisha meeting at one of the many tea houses. For a fee, you’ll be able to sip green tea and observe a unique geisha performance; the perfect end to your getaway in majestic Kyoto.

This story was originally posted at WanderLuxe by The Luxe Nomad
Dream a little, travel a lot. That’s our philosophy. We’re full-time nomads with a passport in one hand and laptop in the other, traversing the globe to find the best hideaways, eateries, and local scenes. And on our luxury villa and apartment booking portal TheLuxeNomad.com, you’ll know you’re always up for your best trip yet (with the best rates).

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Culture
Wine Appreciation 101: Tips from an industry expert, plus good places to shop for wine online

12.11.2021
By Deanna Cheah

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Truly understanding wine is an art form and could take many years to perfect. That said, it’s a misconception that the complexities of wine make it a drink only the minority will appreciate and consume. One man who’s set out to reconceptualise this perception through educating Malaysians on the basics of wine appreciation is Kit Kuan, the founder of Vyne, a company that brings into Malaysia niche and diverse wines from across the globe. Sit back and take notes, as he delves into how to enjoy a glass of this elixir—from words to get acquainted with to a glimpse into the Malaysian wine scene.
1. What do the terms “tannin”, “body”, “acidity”, and “sweetness” refer to when describing the style of wine?
Kit Kuan: “These terminologies are known as tasting notes, tasting traits and characteristics of a wine—sommeliers use these terms when they do tastings. The four main characteristics are body, tannin, acidity, and sweetness. All four are present in red wines, whereas tannin is omitted when describing whites. Tannin is the most common term used among wine enthusiast; it provides an overall mouthfeel that creates a drying sensation or a coating around the gums. (Tannins are only found in grape skins—red wines are made with their skin and white wines are not, which is why tannins aren’t present.)
“Going into body, there are light, medium and full-bodied wines. These describe how light or heavy the wine feels in the mouth or the viscosity of it. When in relation to alcohol, it can be used to describe how long the flavours of the wine stay on your taste buds after swallowing. Hence, why people say wines have good structure—it expresses itself better when exposed to air.
“Acid is an amplifier, and it helps elevate the flavours in food—it creates a crisp, sour, and tart sensation in the mouth and it’s the main reason we salivate after having a sip. Some grapes are naturally higher in acidity, depending on where they’re grown. Let’s take France for instance: A cooler climate causes wines from that region to be generally higher in acidity.
“Sweetness stems from the natural grape sugars that are left after the fermentation process has stopped. Wines without sweetness are also known as dry wines”

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Take a look at these wine reccomendations!
2. Why is it advisable to drink white wines chilled, but not red wines? What are the ideal serving temperatures for red and white wines?
“Before diving in, it’s important to note that tasting wines is subject to an individual’s preference and taste buds—no two individuals have the same palette. That being out of the way, my opinion and my preference is to always serve wines chilled. Between 10 to 13 degrees Celsius for whites and 15 to 18 degrees Celsius for reds. The phrase “room temperature” varies depending on which country you’re in; in the context of Malaysia’s room temperature, it would be anywhere from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius. In a country with four seasons, it would generally be 16 to 18. Wine is a journey of understanding your taste and preferences, and I don’t think there’s a right or wrong (unless it’s mixed with Coca-Cola or ice).”
3. What are Old World wines and New World wines? Is one better than the other?
“Old World wines can historically be grouped into countries around the Mediterranean Sea. These include countries such as Italy, France, Spain, Greece, and some parts of North Africa. New World wines refer to countries and winemakers that borrowed traditions from other countries to jumpstart their own. This often happened alongside colonization. We have countries like Argentina and Chile, which were colonized by Spain and Portugal before the Italians, who then went to the USA and Canada. On the other side of the world, Australia and New Zealand are grouped in the “newer world” category as they grew into winemaking in the 18th century. And today, they grow great quality grapes and are home to some of the world’s best wines.”
“There is no distinction between the two types of wine—there isn’t one that’s better than the other and it’s merely subject to the individual’s taste preference. Old World wines traditionally have a lighter body, less alcohol and higher acidity compared to New World winemaking techniques which yield more full-bodied, higher alcohol, and lower-acidity wines.”

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4. How has the pandemic changed or influenced the wine scene in Malaysia, for both sellers and consumers?
“There’s been a shockwave of change, especially when it comes to Information. When we started Vyne it was to drive three things: Creativity, house curiosity, and to foster education via social media and the media in general. I guess it’s a blessing in disguise that we entered at the right time because everyone could only get their wine fix online and not at physical stores. I think normalizing e-commerce is another aspect that we can expect. Consumers no longer need to rely on a sales rep who may not have memorised all the 350 wines their company has. Instead, they’re able to have bite-sized information that is easy to read and understand, so that they make a more well-informed purchase. After all, the fun is in the discovery and tasting of different wines!”
5. Are there any interesting observations you’ve noticed about the local wine scene, such as quirks in how we drink wine or our preferences?
“I’ve definitely heard of adding ice as a quick serving fix, and in all honesty—as much as I’m against it—if it works for someone else, why not! I do know some uncles and aunties that prefer to have wines at Malaysian “room temperature” but everyone has their preferences.”
6. What are some upcoming trends you foresee in the Malaysian wine scene?
“This is a tough one because consumers are becoming more educated and aware of the value chain, but the biggest trend coming up is the sustainability of the brand or particular bottle of wine. Organic, biodynamic, and natural wines are some of the newer trends that have long been around, but have only recently caught some light because of the younger and influential crowd that rave about these methods as being “better”. However, the media is turbulent and no one can control it. In the end, it’s about an individual’s perception towards a brand and product.”

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7. You carry some niche wines. What are the determining factors when choosing a brand and vineyard?
“Vyne’s listings are a combination of accessible and quirky buys that really stand out in flavour and can be elevated when paired with the right food. It’s a simple formula really—we don’t think too much about it and we get a couple of vino heads together with some light food and try all the wines. If we really like what we drink and feel that more people should know about it, we carry it! There are thousands of wines out there and as much as we would love to be a one-stop-shop, we must think about our capacity in relation to the market, in terms of supplying and giving enough deserved attention to each brand. It’s a true game of balancing these aspects to eventually grow Vyne as a household name in Malaysia.”
Where the industry insider recommends shopping for wine online:
Vyne

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Motoring
15 Thoughts I had while driving the Mini Countryman plug-in hybrid to Ipoh

05.09.2018
By Rachel Au

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There was cause for attention when Mini Malaysia launched its first plug-in hybrid in the form of the new Mini Countryman back in April. Like all Minis, it’s a looker for sure but don’t let the looks fool you. With a 1.5 litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine at the front and an electric motor powering the rear wheels, it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in a mere 6.8 seconds.
Pure electric driving-wise, enjoy a driving range up to 42km with a maximum speed of up to 120km/h. On paper, it all sounds great. Read on for my review of the new Mini Countryman plug-in hybrid when I took it on the road to Ipoh (and back).

1. This car is so beautiful, inside and out. It’s bigger than I thought too — this especially evident when I got into the car.
2. The details of the interior are spot-on. The round gauges and chrome toggle switches, from the Start/Stop feature to selecting the Drive modes, is a unique nod to the old Minis.

mini countryman plug in hybrid malaysia interior

3. There are plenty of cup holders and compartments for me to stash anything – my SmartTag, coins, pouches, water bottles, you name it. I personally love a car that gives me all this space. Another thumbs up goes to the divider area between the passenger and driver seat where I could safely place my shoulder handbag (or potentially a clutch).
4. All systems are good to go and so I decide to switch on the Max eDrive mode. The drive is silky smooth with a swift response.
5. That exhilaration slowly comes to a pause as I arrive within the KL City Centre and notice the now-humble number that depicts the distance I have left on the Max eDrive mode. A full charge pretty much lasted me from BMW Cyberjaya, where I picked up the car, to Jalan Tun Razak, where my next appointment is.

new mini countryman plug in hybrid malaysia review

6. My meeting is over and it’s time to head back home. KL traffic is horrendous, as it usually is. As I’m making my way past the Old Istana Negara, it went from 1km to two dashes. Goodbye all-electric drive and hello, petrol engine.
7. It’s a new day and to start off the long weekend, I’m taking the Mini Countryman plug-in hybrid to Ipoh for a quick lunch and shopping trip. However, I didn’t manage to charge the car overnight as my house doesn’t have a socket close enough — and plugging five extension cords together didn’t seem wise.
8. Driving down the highway is pure bliss. My only gripe is the lack of a lane change assist to help with blind spots or sudden approach of speeding cars that won’t give way. Maybe the next model!

mini countryman plug in hybrid malaysia charging

9. After a quick pit stop at Bidor (they have some pretty delicious snacks but more importantly, there’s a famous duck noodles shop called Pun Chun that’s worth the stop), dear Mini Countryman alerts me that I only have 90km worth of petrol left. Luckily, there’s a Petronas station not too far off and it has a ChargeEV port too. Mind you, there are 270 public charging facilities across Malaysia but it would take approximately 3:15 hours to fully charge it. Can’t. Ipoh is waiting. RM60 was enough to top up the car to a full tank.
10. Another handy feature I discover on this drive is the ability to set the car’s speed limit — essentially a Cruise Control function where you can manually set your desired speed up to the last digit. Perfect for the highway to ensure you don’t go over the speed limit and get caught by the AES cameras. Wouldn’t want to get any demerit points.
11. We’re finally in Ipoh and the city is bustling and hustling. I found the last parking spot in an alley and thank goodness for the radar sensors, available both in the front and the back, as well as the Rear-view Camera. They’re really sensitive too.

mini countryman plug in hybrid malaysia parking

12. While some cars aren’t up to speed with charging your phone, the Mini Countryman plug-in hybrid kept mine at 100 per cent despite using Waze from PJ all the way to Ipoh, as well as taking some photos and playing Pokemon Go in Bidor.
13. For those staying over in Ipoh, BMW has set up three new charging stations at Weil Hotel a few months ago. Unfortunately, it’s just a half day trip for me so again, there isn’t a chance for me to charge the car.
14. After all the eating, it was time to do some shopping. And I mean, snacks and chicken. Good thing there’s plenty of space in the boot (official notes say it has 405 litres of trunk space). I estimate that it can fit at least two large and one small luggage; but definitely not for moving furniture or large pieces of items as the rear seats can’t be folded. I’ll put the list of places you can go below.

mini countryman plug in hybrid malaysia boot space

15. Time to head home. Final verdict: While my experience with the Max eDrive mode was short-lived, the Mini Countryman plug-in hybrid was a breeze to drive and it’s nice to know that there’s a backup of 42km should I really go to charge the car. On the road, it’s agile, responsive and handles corners well. The leather seats are comfortable and you don’t have to take out the key to unlock/lock the car. Sync your phone with the car and you can do several things with the voice recognition feature for a fuss- and hands-free driving experience such as making phone calls or changing the music. However, the microphone is placed right above the driver so it doesn’t capture much if your side passenger wishes to speak with it during a phone call too. All in all, I was never ready to give the car back.

WHERE TO EAT/SHOP IN IPOH
1. Lim Ko Pi

lim ko pi ipoh

While most people go to Ipoh for the chicken rice, among many other dishes, I personally like the laksa at Lim Ko Pi. The Drunken Chicken Noodles are surprisingly good too.

2. Ching Han Guan Biscuits
Founded in 1949, it’s a traditional biscuits shop in Ipoh that’s famous for its meat floss biscuits.

3. Ding Feng Tau Fu Fa

ding feng tau fu far ipoh

Located in Concubine Lane, the tau fu fa here is Teow Chew-style and is as smooth as silk. They do have the original version with ginger syrup or you can opt for the Teow Chew one with crushed peanut syrup. You’re advised not to mix it.

4. Aun Kheng Lim
Undeniably the best salted chicken in Ipoh. We bought five boxes! The meat is beautifully tender, fragrant and flavourful with Chinese herbs. They also sell it in vacuum-sealed packs.

For more info, visit Mini Malaysia’s website.

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Fashion
6 Things to look out for at London Fashion Week SS19

13.09.2018
By Joan Kong

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1.     For the first time in 35 years, London Fashion Week is going fur-free. While the British Fashion Council did not impose a specific ban this season, it’s been revealed that no designers will be using the material in their collections. Earlier this month, Burberry has announced that it will no longer be using fur, and all the remaining fur items being phased out. Designer Stella McCartney who has been championing a cruelty-free ethos said, “Hearing about the fur-free fashion week fills me with hopes that fashion can be cruelty-free one day and reminds me that the city of London is still punk rock and has its finger on the future of fashion.”

2.     One of the most highly anticipated shows this season goes to Riccardo Tisci’s first collection at Burberry. The Italian designer will be presenting his fur-free debut line during London Fashion Week, and a few limited edition pieces will be available for purchase for 24 hours via the brand’s Instagram, WeChat, and the newly redesigned flagship store in London—30 minutes after the see-now-buy-now show.

3.     Having launched her label off-schedule last year, British It-girl Alexa Chung will be showing at London Fashion Week for the first time, and the pieces will be a reflection of her personal style, which is a balance of chic Parisian and quirky British.

4.     To celebrate the 10th year anniversary of her namesake brand, Victoria Beckham is back to her homeland this season. Although it’s just a one-off, the move will no doubt be a strategic one, as her studio and team have always been based in London. We know the Beckham clan will definitely be seated front and centre, but will the rest of the Spice Girls be present to support their fellow bandmate? Guess we’ll wait until September 16 to find out.

5.     Also showing in London for the first time is shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood, who counts the likes of Rihanna and Sarah Jessica Parker as some of his favourite celebrity clients. Instead of the usual presentation format, the brand will be having an “immersive and experiential” runway show.

6.     Richard Quinn made history as the only designer (ever) who had Queen Elizabeth on the front row last season, and he’s also the first to receive the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design. Naturally, all eyes are on him again this round, and you can expect another bold print-filled collection.

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Skincare
8 Best toners for every skin type—from classics to recent favourites
Skin refiners

13.09.2022
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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Toners have come a long way from their inception—gone are the days of drying, alcohol-based formulations and in is an era of multi-tasking goodness. Packed with hydrating, smoothing, and brightening benefits, they’re a must-have step in any skincare routine.
We’ve rounded up some of the most sophisticated formulations we’ve found on the modern market, for every skin type—from Laneige’s vitamin C-rich concoction to SK-II’s cult-classic favourite, find our favourites ahead:
SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion

For: Skin with visibly large pores
Your skin would love: PITERA, of course!
The gist: There are over 50 reasons why SK-II’s PITERA is so popular. There are over 50 micro-nutrients in this natural bio-ingredient that helps reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone, dark spots, and pores. That aside, it makes your skincare regime worthwhile by removing stubborn impurities to prepare your skin for all the goodness (serums, creams, you name it!) that follows.
RM207, available at LazMall

Decorte AQ Meliority Intensive Revitalizing Emulsion

For: Those who don’t mind splurging for beautiful skin
Your skin would love: Benifuuki green tea extract, sandalwood extract and glycerin
The gist: The AQ Meliority range may cost a pretty penny but, for its impressive ingredient list, you’re paying for some serious time-rewinding effects. Rare Benifuuki green tea extract boasts regenerative properties, and the fast-absorbing formula leaves the skin softer and more refined.
Available at Decorté counters.

Laneige Radian-C Advanced Effector

For:  Dull, blemished skin in need of a brightening boost
Your skin would love: Acerola extract and acai berry extract
The gist: Laneige’s antioxidant-fortified toner uses a triple-vitamin and super berry blend to brighten lacklustre complexions while smoothing out uneven textures across the planes of the face.
RM 190, available at Sephora

Tatcha The Texture Tonic

For: Sensitive, oily skin types
Your skin would love: Wild rose extract, Japanese mugwort and niacinamide
The gist: Drawing from the traditional Japanese practice of applying a watery lotion to cleanse and strengthen your complexion, The Texture Tonic features nourishing ingredients like Japanese Mugwort, which gently exfoliate your skin and decongest your pores without stripping your skin of natural moisture.
RM 285, available at Sephora

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner

For: Pores in need of a tightening service
Your skin would love: Willow bark, hyaluronic acid and watermelon extract
The gist: Taking pride in your skincare is a year-round thing. Enriched with cactus water and willow bark extract, this light, hydrating toner makes for smooth, glowing skin. By helping to unblock and shrink clogged pores, this toner leaves your complexion looking brighter and more camera-ready.
RM 160, available at Sephora

Elemis Superfood Kefir-Tea Mist

For: People who value efficiency
Your skin would love: Vegan Kefir Ferment, Coconut Water and Rooibos Tea
The gist: Elemis’ Kefir-Tea Mist is actually a four-in-one treatment mist that hydrates, tones, primes and sets makeup—perfect for those who are on the go all the time. Enriched with Kefir and Rooibos tea, this nourishing formula keeps your skin looking dewy and supple all day long.
RM 150, available at Sephora

Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner

For: Normal to oily skin types
Your skin would love: Calendula extracts, allantoin, greater burdock
The gist: Don’t like the tight, tingling sensation that comes with certain toners? Opt for this alcohol-free toner that doesn’t have harsh synthetic drying agents to soothe your skin right after cleansing. The antioxidants in calendula extracts work as a natural antiseptic and also prevent skin from drying out.
RM95, available at Kiehl’s stores

Pixi Milky Toner

For: Skin that’s hard to please
Your skin would love: Matricaria flower water, jojoba seed oil, oat extract among other botanical extracts
The gist: Got sensitive skin that will not settle for merely any toner? Try this alcohol-free version—jojoba milk helps to rehydrate and nourish skin, oat extract soothes sensitive skin, and green tea adds a kick of antioxidants.
RM70, available at Sephora

The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner

For: Those who don’t intend to spend a bomb
Your skin would love: Sugar cane-derived glycolic acid and witch hazel water
The gist: If you’re looking for an AHA toner that gently exfoliates without stinging your skin, try this lightweight toner that helps remove dead skin cells and improve cell turnover.
RM50, available at Sephora

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Fashion
Provocative photo with Bella Hadid reveals new NikeLab x Riccardo Tisci kicks
Slam Dunk

07.02.2017
By Buro247

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NikeLab has paired up once again with the ex-Givenchy designer, Riccardo Tisci for a reprise of his 2016 Dunk collaboration that birthed the NikeLab Dunk Lux High x RT. The latest release unveils a riff on the high-top silhouette—a line of mids reminiscent of chukka boots that has been befittingly dubbed the NikeLab Dunk Lux Chukka x RT.

This marks the fourth time the self-confessed sneakerhead has entered a partnership with Nike. Tisci’s affinity for skate culture and retro ’80s basketball served as inspiration while his experience with luxury supplied the exaggerated proportions, oversized branding and use of premium leather.

“I think the Dunk has something that’s very special. It’s grounded in sport as well as in the street style culture,” says Tisci. “For younger generations it can fit as many different styles tribes as you can imagine. I think it’s one of the most iconic shoes that Nike has ever created.”
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Full-grain leather uppers, drop-in Lunarlon insoles for comfort, an impregnated swoosh and debossed logo on the heel will all feature on the new Dunk Lux Chukka that comes in black/white and red/white.

The shoes land at the NikeLab at Bergdorf Goodman, NikeLab 21 Mercer, Dover Street Market New York, Kith Brooklyn and Concepts NYC on February 10. Everybody everywhere else, cop a pair at NikeLab retailers and on nike.com/nikelab from February 23 onwards.

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Style
The best Twitter reactions to fast-fashion brand Shein’s bizarre cut-out jeans

18.02.2021
By Joan Kong

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We’ve seen some really polarising fashion trends over the past few years, but just when we thought we’ve seen them all, online fast-fashion brand Shein has recently launched an item that raises eyebrows…for all the wrong reasons. Cue the high-waist cut-out straight-leg jeans—a pair of trousers that looks perfectly normal from the back, except that it has a huge gap that exposes your underwear in the front.
A Twitter user pointed out the inspiration behind the design, posting a picture of Blackpink’s Lisa on-stage ensemble during the group’s Pretty Savage performance late last year. The K-pop star was wearing a similar design by Thai label Pony Stone, known for its outlandish denim and cut-out pieces. While Lisa nailed the look for the show, we’re not exactly sure if anyone would sport this out and about on a regular basis. But hey, to each their own.

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That said, that didn’t stop the Twitterverse from reacting to the bizarre piece, so below, we rounded up the best reactions from Twitter. PS: If you’d like to purchase it, here’s the link.
1.

On another episode of absolutely wild fashion @SHEIN_official pic.twitter.com/aZ0QVKUEDO
— Gelan Shamloul (@RU_GellLin) February 15, 2021

2.

These @SHEIN_official pants are literally a crime pic.twitter.com/SFKb7Qp1sD
— nicole (@dandylion09) February 14, 2021

3.

I just wanna know why @SHEIN_official pic.twitter.com/xuXZhXi8I4
— yiota (@Petrice_Alexi) February 14, 2021

4.

People are really out here arguing about skinny jeans when things like this exist. #WhyThough #Shein #Millennial #MillennialWithAMiddlePart #GenZ pic.twitter.com/tAVeyJLYgT
— Lyndsay Anne Burton (@LyndsayAnne90) February 15, 2021

5.

I must be getting old bc I don’t fancy showing everyone my pants (plus I don’t wear nice enough pants on the daily for others to want to see either) and these scream less fashion more cold crotch. @SHEIN_official pic.twitter.com/QayWMQIY38
— Roxy Watson (@Roxy_Watson) February 15, 2021

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

@SHEIN_official you OK babe? What’s with the fanny jeans? pic.twitter.com/gd0krJiOWf
— Shannonliaa (@shannonliaa) February 14, 2021

11.

Related: The best Twitter reactions to Kim Kardashian’s green six-pack dress

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Kiehl’s Grooming Solutions for the boys

Beauty
Kiehl’s Grooming Solutions for the boys
Level up!

25.07.2017
By Gwen Ong

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Hands up if you know of a boy, or are one yourself, who needs a bit of help in the grooming department. If you need to ask, scruffy is not a look that fits every man and no, the ‘I woke up like this’ excuse just doesn’t cut it. Consider getting an essential toolkit that will take you from the preparatory stages to the finishing touches.

This coming August, Kiehl’s Malaysia will be introducing three new products out of a six-piece range essential under the Grooming Solutions line to meet your unique needs. Not to worry, nothing too complicated, just simple items that will keep you perfectly polished or deliberately wild.

For cleansing: The Nourishing Shampoo + Conditioner (RM100/250ml) is a two-in-one product that is perfect for the busy man. It generates a creamy lather to gently clean hair and remove build-up so scalp is left feeling hydrated and refreshed. While the formula smoothes and conditions the hair with a blend of essential oils to leave hair soft and looking full and healthy.

For styling: The Texturizing Clay (RM90/150ml) is made with Moroccan Lava Clay to help define and shape the hair without weighing it down. It is formulated with a flexible long-lasting hold and matte finish, yet rinses off cleanly from hair. Yay to no icky residue!

For styling: The Clean Styling Gel (RM90/150ml) is a non-greasy, flake-free lightweight formula to give hair a firm hold with natural-looking shine. You can comb it up or slick it back with ease. Looking spiffy has never been this good!

Psst…next year, Kiehl’s Malaysia will be adding one more styling product – the Creative Cream Wax to the Grooming Solutions line. So do watch out for that too!

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Lifestyle
7 Things you can do this weekend: 30-31 January 2016
Take your pick

28.01.2016
By Rachel Au

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

1. Market by Slate Weekend at The Row, 11am – 7pm, Sat and Sun
Finding creative products won’t be a challenge this weekend because a specially curated list of vendors were invited to participate in this marketplace and whether it’s stationery (Pebble Paper Design), jewellery (Escape Artist Collective) or even home decor (Ohsum Mossum Terrariums), you just might find a fair few things of your interest. Oh, and there’ll be food, drinks and music too.

2. Ohsum Mossum Terrarium Workshop, 1.30pm – 3.30pm, Sun
Have you always wanted a terrarium? It’s more unique to own one that you made yourself. Ronnie of Ohsum Mossum will be teaching the basics of terrarium-making during the Slate Weekend and all materials will be included. It’s priced at RM150 per person. To register, contact Ronnie at [email protected]

3. SPCA Pet Adoption Drive, 11am, Sun
If you’re looking to add a furry friend to your family, why not drop by The Row for the Slate Weekend? SPCA Malaysia will be bringing some of their cuddly friends for you to adopt or even just for you to show them some love.

4. The DR.Inc Food Market, 11am, Sun
Calling all foodies, this is the market to gather at this Sunday as there will be eight chefs selling a variety of their best dishes. Expect both local (nasi kerabu) and international delights (Lebanese food) as well as some funky grooves by DJ DANO to set the vibes.

5. Star Wars: The Force Awakens Quiz Night, 7.30pm, Sun
So how many times did you watch the latest Star Wars movie? If you’re confident and a total fan, the Star Wars Malaysia Fan Club is hosting a quiz night at Yellow Brick Road with over RM1,000 worth of Star Wars merchandise, cinema passes and vouchers to be won. Don’t worry though; you can join in a team of three to five people. The entry fee is RM25 per person and it’s limited to the first 60 participants. There will also be light snacks and refreshments. Register your name and phone number to [email protected]

6. Breakout Room’s limited edition Fox-themed room
Are you a fan of The Walking Dead, X-Files, Heroes or even Marvel’s Agent Carter? From now till 23 February, Breakout Room has a limited edition Fox-themed room called Code Name: Fox that blends all four of the shows’ elements in one tough puzzle. Give it a go at their outlet in Nu Sentral-if you dare.

7. Vanilla Purity Manicure & Pedicure by The Nail Parlour
With Chinese New Year approaching, even your nails deserve a refreshing makeover. The Nail Parlour’s latest special mani-pedi session is the perfect treat for your hands and feet after a long week. Nails are carefully trimmed, filed and shaped, after which, your hands and feet are covered in a rich, vanilla-scented mask, wrapped in cling film and left in heated mitts before being wiped off, massaged and nails painted in the colour of your choice. Sounds decadent? You bet it is.

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Collections
MFW SS19 day 1: Jil Sander, Alberta Ferretti and No. 21

20.09.2018
By Su Fen Tan

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Jil Sander
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Who: This is husband-and-wife design duo Lucie and Luke Meier’s third runway outing for the brand.
Where: The runway was set inside a former panettone bread factory, where nature has taken over and a little shrub sprouting from the floor tiles is nothing out of the ordinary.
The Low-down: Keeping to Jil Sander’s signature minimalist aesthetic, the Meiers weaves together a wardrobe of sophisticated, elevated basics with a sense of ease that renders it highly covetable. The mostly monochrome, crisp silhouettes of the opening co-ords made way for fluidity in languid ribbed knits, windbreakers and crochet dresses. A graphic illustration here, a sleeve detailing there deftly injects sartorial quality into everyday essentials.
Buro Loves: The chic micro bags convincing us that less is indeed more.

Alberta Ferretti
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Who: The Italian fashion veteran inspires adventure and exploration on the runway this season with the help of models of the moment Kendall Jenner, Kaia Gerber, Edie Campbell as well as Gigi and Bella Hadid.
The Low-down: For SS19, Alberta Ferretti is looking at “creating a new attitude that encourages women to voice their strong personalities through their innocence, gentleness and an almost dreamy calmness”. The dreaminess came through in a fresh colour palette of soft pink, blue and green, bringing to mind the colours of the desert at dusk. Doily lace tops are paired with baggy tapered trousers, while slouchy field jackets came in pastel hues, marrying an urban sense of adventure and romanticism with ease.
Buro Loves: The breezy chiffon maxi dresses, both minis and maxis, are the dreamiest of the lot.

No. 21
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Who: Alessandro Dell’Acqua seemingly takes a break from his masculine-meets-feminine aesthetic for this season, and constructed a collection for the No. 21 ‘Party Girl’ (the Michelle Gurevich song was playing in the background) – not a single pair of trousers was in sight.
Where: The huge concrete showspace is actually located in No. 21’s headquarters, a space designed by Hannes Peer that just opened last year.
The Low-down: This was a high shine, high impact lineup. There was something for every party girl (or not) out there—a sleek pencil skirt in faux patent ostrich leather is paired with a mesh turtleneck top for a sensual edge, feather outlines that one can throw over simple slip dresses flourish with lavish appeal, a hint of couture silhouettes ties in modern elegance, and babydoll shapes and soft hues cater to the sweet natured.
Buro Loves: The Swarovski chain skeleton with the outline of an oversized tee is perfect for bringing a little shine and character to basic ensembles.

MFW SS19 day 1 in 10 pictures:
{insert gallery tpl=”slide-freesize.tpl” id=”[Стандартная] MFW SS19 day 1″ rid=”6558″ order=”a_tstamp”}
Get daily updates on Milan Fashion Week SS19 here.

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Beauty
Beauty buzz: Kylie Jenner is launching a haircare brand, Joe Keery is a ’90s boyband’s wet dream

01.03.2020
By Redzhanna Jazmin

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

MAC Cosmetics is due to release a new MAC X Selena collection in April

 The cosmetics brand has designed another collection to honour the Queen of Tejano Music—Selena Quintanilla. The original collection launched in 2016 and was an instant sellout, and the relaunch will include 13 products including three lipsticks, a bronzer, mascara, liquid eyeliner, five eyeshadows and a powder blush—all named after the singer’s iconic songs. The collection drops in April and will be available in select markets. Watch this space for updates.
Kylie Jenner has a trademark on the brand name “Kylie Hair”

 Looks like the beauty mogul billionaire is set to expand her beauty empire with a haircare line. Jenner applied for a trademark on the brand name and official documents suggest that it has been approved as of February 6. The brand is set to include a variety of shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, dry shampoo, hairsprays and hair dye. Who’s excited for this launch?
Side note: how chic is Jenner’s bronde hair in her recent Instagram post?
Kobe Bryant’s sister gets tattoo to honour her late brother and niece

 In a sweet tribute to the late NBA star and his daughter, Kobe Bryant’s sister Sharia Washington has gotten a new tattoo. The homage tattoo shows a snake in the shape of an infinity symbol with the digits 2 and 24, representing their jersey numbers and the NBA player’s nickname ‘Black Mamba’.
Joe Keery has chunky highlights

Everyone’s favourite Mum™ on Stranger Things has sported a huge change in hair. We’ve seen him with his staple gravity defying locks, we’ve seen him with a short-lived bowlcut but we haven’t seen him with chunky highlights…until now. The beloved actor sported his ’90s boyband ‘do at the Saint Laurent show during Paris Fashion Week, with his girlfriend Maika Monroe at his side.
Taylor Swift transforms into ‘The Man’ in her new music video

You’ll be doing a double take while watching the singer’s new music video in her biggest beauty transformation yet. Turns out, T-Swizzle is the man. With the help of makeup artist Bill Corso, the 30-year old singer’s before-and-after look took “between 4–6 hours in the makeup chair every day,” she said in an Instagram post. Watch the end of the video to see her whole transformation—The Man also marks Swift’s directorial debut.
Demi Lovato goes makeup-free in a new selfie

 The singer took a step back from her usual glamorous feed and showed off her natural beauty. In her candid Instagram post, she said “Haven’t done a #NoMakeupMonday in yearssss but I figured after posting so many glamorous pics with tons of makeup and hair pieces, it’s important to show myself underneath it all. This is what I look like 85%-90% of the time. Proud of my freckles, proud of booty chin and proud of myself for loving and accepting myself the way I am.”
24k gold is the key to Kaia Gerber’s glowing skin during Paris Fashion Week

Need a next-level glow worthy of a supermodel? Take what Kaia Gerber’s facialist offers—a 24-karat gold leaf facial treatment that is able to “provide the skin with an immediate sense of wellbeing, treating redness and fine lines while evening the skin’s tone and promoting a healthy glow.” Her celebrity-approved facialist, Mimi Luzon, is also the skincare maestro behind the faces of Bella Hadid and Victoria Secret’s Angels.

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Culture
7 Charming bookstores to visit in KL and Selangor

05.01.2022
By Buro247

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Avid readers will agree that there’s nothing like flipping through the pages of a book and poring over its contents. Sure, digital books exist now, but it’s not quite as comforting as feeling paper on your fingertips or owning a special edition. Call us old school, if you must.
Even if you’re not a book lover, chances are you probably know a family member or friend who appreciates a good read. Naturally, bookstores are the place to quench the thirst for words and pick up a new book (or five).
Well, you’re on the right page because these seven unique bookstores will surely excite any bibliophile and bookworm:
1. Bukit Jalil Tsutaya Books, Kuala Lumpur

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World renowned Japanese bookstore chain, Tsutaya Books, launched its first outlet in Malaysia and it is world renowned for many good reasons. Bookworm or not, Bukit Jalil Tsutaya Books is the place to go for hours of browsing time with a plethora of unique goods to discover beyond its 240,000 specially curated books of multiple languages, from accessories, skincare, art, artisanal crafts, and everything in between. With so much to explore through the 31 square feet single floor, visitors can head over to the bookstore’s café to take a break and unwind with Kyoto matcha latte, freshly brewed coffee, and artisanal desserts for you to indulge.
Visitors with a penchant for arts and crafts will absolutely love their stationery section which carries an abundance of quality stationeries, adorable stickers, paper crafts, and more. Adding to the exciting goods featured are terrariums, earrings, mugs, exclusive figurines, fashionable stockings, and Masaru knives, to name a few.
Another notable mention is their encouragement for creative expression as they showcase the talents of several international and local artists in their Arts section which are on a monthly rotation. Catering to the community further is their children’s section, stocked up with over 20,000 children’s books, puzzles, and games within their treehouse-themed Learning Room.
Address: Lot 2.89.00, Level 2 Orange Zone, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Persiaran Jalil Utama, Bandar Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
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2. Book Xcess Sunsuria Forum, Shah Alam

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Book Xcess is arguably best known for hosting the world’s biggest book sale under a single retailer, the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale. No less impressive, however, are its bookstores—particularly the one at Sunsuria Forum in Setia Alam. Established in 2019, it instantly commands attention with its book tunnel concept at the entrance and spiral tower on the ground floor. Inside, it houses almost 500,000 books along with a cosy café, a mini maze of bookshelves for children, and a host of modern reading nooks.
(Note: We heard BookXcess will be opening another flagship store in RexKL soon, watch this page for updates!)
Address: SB-1, Sunsuria Forum, No.1, Jalan Setia Dagang AL U13/AL, Seksyen U13, Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor
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3. Lit Books, Petaling Jaya

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Located within Tropicana Avenue, this independent neighbourhood bookstore specialises in English literary titles. The “Lit” in its name hints at that, while also playing on millennial speak for ‘something that’s awesome’. You’ll find fiction and non-fiction titles as well as contemporary reads on the shelves here, carefully curated by a husband and wife team who are former journalists and bibliophiles. The minimalist, Scandinavian-themed interiors promise quiet, uninterrupted reading time—complemented with a cuppa Joe from the beverage station, aka Lit Bar, if you please.
Address: P-1-11 Tropicana Avenue, 12, Persiaran Tropicana, 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
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4. Tintabudi, Kuala Lumpur

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Despite its modest home in The Zhongshan Building, Tintabudi has become a haven for fans of books of humanities. Formerly from Ipoh, this quaint little book shop is serious about promoting important works of literature, philosophy, history, arts and other publications not often carried by chain bookstores, which promise to provoke thought. It also hosts intimate book readings led by founder Nazir Harith or other local scholars from time to time.
Address: 80, Jalan Rotan, Kampung Attap, 50460 Kuala Lumpur
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5. Cite Book Garden, Sri Petaling

Photo: Cite Book Garden

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Cite Book Garden is popular among Mandarin readers, thanks to its extensive selection of reads from Taiwan, Hong Kong and mainland China. A wall of potted greens forms a popular backdrop ‘for the gram’, while plenty of other quiet spots are available throughout the store for private reading. There’s also a dedicated event space on the second floor that’s often used to host book launches, readings, wellness activities, and more.
Address: 41, Jalan Radin Anum, Sri Petaling, 57000 Kuala Lumpur
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6. Monalisa Bookstore, Bukit Jalil

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Photo: Monalisa Bookstore
Sprawled across three floors with award-winning interior design, Monalisa Bookstore is truly a playground for the inquisitive mind. Featuring a warm, neutral palette decked with modern furniture and fixtures, the fairly new bookstore will appeal to bibliophiles and cafe hoppers alike with its in-store dessert cafe where you can enjoy a read with a side of coffee and cakes. Even little ones will have a good time at the children’s section on the third floor, adorned with a book-lined tower called the ‘Tree of Life’.
Address: F-8-1, Pusat Perdagangan Bandar Bukit Jalil, Persiaran Jalil 1, Kuala Lumpur
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7. Monsoon Books, Petaling Jaya

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Photo: Monsoon Books
Monsoon Books is one of the newer hideouts on this list for disciples of the written word. Nestled on the upper floor above Wild Sheep Home ice-cream cafe, the bookstore is home to a wide selection of Chinese titles and several English books. It features a small, cosy indoor seating area to curl up for a quick read, as well as a lush al fresco spot if you’d prefer to take your time poring over the pages.
Address: 1st Floor, 605, Jalan 17/12, Seksyen 17, 46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
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8. Junk Book Store, Bukit Bintang

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If your definition of Instagram-worthy is a place that’s imbued with history (#vintage), Junk Book Store marks the spot. Opened since 1990, this rustic shop in KL’s Jalan Tun HS Lee has been a popular haunt for second-hand books for more than 30 years. While you may be hard-pressed to find a comfy spot to sit down and read here, you’ll probably be preoccupied with scrutinising over three million titles in its inventory anyway. Aside from books, novels, and comics, the shop also sells some cool 12-inch vinyl records.
Address: 78, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
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9. BookXcess at RexKL

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For those who are active on Instagram, you’ve probably seen these towering shelves somewhere in your feed. Located in the cultural hub of RexKL, BookXcess attracts aesthetic seekers and bibliophiles with its extensive display of books in a spacious hall that previously served as a cinema before it was burned down in the 1970s. The maze-like structure takes getting lost in the pages to a literal sense but the concept is appreciated by visitors nevertheless. The many stairs between the seemingly never-ending shelves offers a sense of adventure while searching for your next read. The space is also shared with art exhibitions and live performances, adding a new layer of excitement to bookstores that we never thought we needed, but now love.
Address: RexKL, Jalan Sultan, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
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10. Buku by PJ Preloved House

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Books can be very costly—especially ones with hard covers or special editions—but that doesn’t stop a bookworm’s temptation to add it to their shelves. A good alternative for book collectors on a budget is pre-loved books. You’re probably picturing a heavily ran-through book with torn pages and a worn-out cover, but it doesn’t have to be! At Buku by PJ Preloved House, the idea is simple: to repurpose pre-loved books at an affordable price and create an inclusive space for the reading community to connect. The humble bookstore houses a wide selection of books that are familiar to many, such as The Handmaid’s Tale, The Testaments, Dante’s Equation, and many more. If you’re a shopaholic for books, Buku by PJ Preloved House will be a haven for you.
Address: Kedai KL, Level 2, MAHSA Avenue Jalan Universiti, Off, Jalan Ilmu, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
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For more book recommendations to read, head over here.

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