Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Edition (2016)

[Automobile News]

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, introduced the limited edition Triton Phantom in Malaysia on 7 January 2016. The Triton Phantom is limited to 200 units, and is based on the Triton VGT Adventure variant created in all-black with accessories to match its tough yet sinister look.
The exterior of the Triton Phantom is accentuated by 17 inch matte black alloy rims and matte black grille for an even more aggressive stance. This tougher outlook is complimented by sports bar with full box and matte black rear bumper, a front bumper extender, Xenon HID Headlamps with Day Time Running (DRL) Lights and special Phantom body stickers and decals.
Interior wise, there are new Phantom black leather seats with standard equipment that includes the push start button, keyless operation, tilt and telescopic steering and paddle shifters for manual control of the automatic transmission. Other features in the Triton Phantom include 4WD selector, touch screen audio system with reverse camera, auto headlamps and wipers, and dual zone climate control.

The Triton Phantom comes with an improved and proven 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with an intercooled Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) which offers high performance with high fuel economy. This technologically-advanced Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) 16-valve turbodiesel engine with a common-rail system now produces 178 PS of power at 4,000 rpm and 400 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm (50 Nm more torque than before) to give the Triton even stronger performance in any conditions. The Triton Phantom comes with a turning radius of 5.9 metres.
An efficient 5-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode is mated to Mitsubishi’s Easy Select 4WD system which distributes power to the front and rear axles. The Easy Select 4WD system has been continuously improved over two decades and is a robust drivetrain able to handle high torque levels.
Safety wise, the all-new Triton has Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction which uses high tensile steel that effectively absorbs and disperses crash energy from all directions while also significantly reducing overall weight. Impact bars has been added within the side doors for additional protection against side collisions.
Other safety features that are standard across the range include dual SRS airbags, a collapsible steering column and anti-intrusion brake pedal, which is made to fold away during an accident. Anti-lock braking (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is also available. EBD reduces the possibility of skidding when the rear end is light and the wheels may lock up on slippery conditions while braking.

The Triton Phantom is priced at RM115,680.76*, and comes with two (2) years of free maintenance with RM2,000 cash rebates OR free labour with RM4,000 cash rebates. The Triton Phantom also comes with a factory warranty of 3 years or the first 100,000 km.

Imported as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) vehicle from Mitsubishi Motors’ global production hub in Thailand, the all-new Triton is also available in five other variants for the Malaysian market.
Here are the prices for the all-new Triton in Peninsular Malaysia:

No
Variant
On-The-Road Price without insurance, inclusive of GST
Available Colours

1
Triton VGT Adventure Automatic
110,218.56
Earth Green, Pearl White, Shadow Black, Red Solid

2
Triton VGT Automatic
98,549.28
Sterling Silver, Pearl White, Shadow Black

3
Triton VGT Manual
92,114.64

4
Triton Manual
83,162.68
Sterling Silver,
White Solid

5
Triton Quest (4×2)
68,576.08

Mitsubishi has also come up with this video of Malaysian drifter Leona Chin “pranking some unsuspecting customers” by taking them out in it then drifting and scaring the hell out of them. However I don’t quite believe that the “customers” are actually customers as Maxman TV has a reputation for creating viral videos that are not quite reality TV (remember the video of a girl beating up the “robbers” who tried to enter her house?).

Cool drift moves though.

For further information, head over to www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my or call the Mitsubishi Motors Customer Careline at 1800 18 6611 (9 am – 5 pm, Mondays to Fridays excluding public holidays).

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WTA Malaysian Tennis Open 2011 – Kronenbourg Night 280211

Headed down to the Bukit Kiara Equestrian Club to attend the Kronenbourg night at the WTA Malaysian Open. It was actually the first time I’ve watched a (pro) tennis match live and it was pretty impressive! Entrance is FREE (yes entrance is FREE) until Thursday so point your browser to http://www.bmwmalaysianopen.com/ for the match schedules.
Entrance is FREE until Thursday!
BMW is the title sponsor. Just look at this beauty.
27 year old Marion Bartoli was ranked world no.1 not too long ago and is a formidable force!
I spent most of my time at the Kronenbourg beer garden where guests can watch the games live on the LCD screens.
Available here is Kronenbourg and a host of other beers from Carlsberg Malaysia.
The cute girls will even play Wii tennis with you!
My fav photo of the night thanks to Edwin!

More photos HERE.

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Bell & Ross BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro Rotor Preview in Kuala Lumpur

[Luxury Fashion]

Bell & Ross previewed its latest timepiece, the next generation – BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro Rotor at a cocktail and party at the new Element Hotel Kuala Lumpur by Westin on 27 July 2017. The event was an exclusive affair for VIPs, celebrities and media, and was held on Level 39, which offered guests amazing views of the KL skyline.
Guests got a sneak peak of the next generation BR-X2’s automatic mechanical movement  called the caliber BR380 which is developed and manufactured to be square and thin. The BR-X2 is not housed in a traditional watch case, but rather is framed inside a solid plate stainless steel holder as thin as the movement itself. The case is 42.5 mm in diameter and made with satin-polished steel, and is water-resistant up to 50 meters. A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating lies atop the dial while a grey alligator strap completes the piece.
The BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro-Rotor is priced at RM284,000 and is a limited edition offering of just 99 pieces.
For more info on the BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro-Rotor, head over to https://www.bellross.com/mods/watches/BR-X2-tourbillon-micro-rotor/

 The setup and decor of preview event on Level 39 of the new hotel mimicked BR-X2’s transparent look, complete with a custom-built see through stage over the pool where models sashayed on it showcasing the new timepiece.

 BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro Rotor

 MC of the event Hannah Lo
 DJ Irama kept the guests entertained
 The watch show by the models

 The models with Tong Chee Wei and Tay Liam Khoon
 Among the celebrities present were Frederick Lee, Lynn Lim, Trisha Kuck, Venice Min, and Coby Chong

 Popular Instagrammer and model Venice Min with a Bell & Ross timepiece
 Among the guests at the cocktail were the elite of society and numerous socialites. Pictured above are Chery Wong, Tong Chee Wei, Jeong Hwa Jang, Jennifer Jung, Kent Ong, and Michelle Tham.

Bell & Ross also announced its month-long lifestyle pop-up store in collaboration with Cortina Watch, from 1 to 31 August 2017 on Level 1, Suria KLCC. The pop-up store will see an exhibition showcasing BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro Rotor and the full collection of the BR-X1. The BR-X1 is a high-tech chronograph with a sporty design, which is as robust as it is sophisticated, making it a revolutionary a top-of-the-range contemporary sports watch which the brand regards as the “Ultimate Utility Watch”.

Photos courtesy of Bell & Ross Malaysia.
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Burberry Menswear January 2016 Show

[Fashion]

Burberry revealed its latest Menswear collection, named “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue,” at its custom-built venue in London’s Kensington Gardens on 11 January 2016. The collection was a showcase of the unification of the brand’s different ready to wear labels and styles.
British singer-songwriter and 2015 Mercury Prize winner Benjamin Clementine accompanied by a specially created band including a cellist and The Libertines drummer Gary Powell performed at the event, entertaining guests with his hits such as “Condolence”, “Nemesis” and “Adios” from his debut Mercury Prize winning album “At Least For Now”.
The show and performance were streamed live on the newly launched Burberry app for Apple TV, marking a first for a fashion brand on the platform. The Burberry app for Apple TV is the latest in a series of digital innovations that have been created between Burberry and Apple, and will be updated with additional live moments and exclusive content throughout the year. The Burberry app for Apple TV will also offer access to a collection of Burberry Acoustic films from emerging British musicians, highlights from the brand’s previous runway shows and Burberry beauty tutorials by Burberry Make-up Artistic Consultant, Wendy Rowe.
Apart from Apple TV, viewers globally were able to experience the show across multiple Burberry platforms including Burberry.com, YouTube, Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google+, LINE, Sina Weibo, Pinterest, Apple Music, YouKu, Kakao and WeChat.
Over 700 guests attended the show including Steve McQueen, Brooklyn Beckham, Mark Ronson, Josephine de la Baume, Tinie Tempah, Jourdan Dunn, Amber Anderson, Ed Skrein, Florence Kosky, Ben Gregory, Liam Gardner, Jack Garratt, Lee Jong Suk, Dermot O’Leary, George Barnett, Gabriel Kane Day Lewis, Nick Grimshaw, Toby Huntington-Whiteley, Johannes Huebl, Dougie Poynter, Hu Bing, Alex Lawther, Josh Whitehouse, Jack Guinness, David Gandy, Jim Chapman, Jamal Edwards and Rafferty Law.
Models walking the show included the brand’s current campaign stars Sol Goss, Louie Johnson, Ruth and May Bell, Eliza Fairbanks, Hayett McCarthy as well as Chinese singer and actor Kris Wu, making his runway debut. Giving unprecedented access to his first experience at a Burberry show, Kris Wu took over the Burberry Sina Weibo account, sharing exclusive content from his runway debut. Following the show, WeChat users will be able to unlock exclusive audio content from Kris.
The Menswear collection celebrates outerwear shapes redefined for relaxed weekends, including trench coats, topcoats, duffle coats, military pea coats and parkas, and introduces a new bag shape The Satchel alongside new shoe designs The Driver and The Derby. The show also included looks from the latest women’s Pre-Collection, which debuted in November 2015.
Textures and Fabrics: Wool felt, double-faced cashmere checks, double splittable cashmere wool, wool mohair, wool tweed, cotton gabardine, washed denim, viscose jersey
Colours: Navy, black, white, deep green, military green, military red, claret, purple, camel, mustard, grey, honey, blue
Silhouettes: Military coat, topcoat, cape, duffle coat, parka, trench coat, bomber jacket, puffer jacket, field jacket, flight jacket, tailored jacket, tracksuit, wide pant, polo shirt, blue jeans
Accessories: The Satchel, The Driver, The Derby, The Sneaker, reversible check Scottish-woven cashmere scarves
Womenswear Pre-Collection: Highlights from the collection shown today included lace dresses, ultra-luxe sportswear and tailored boot-cut trousers as well as The Rucksack and The Belt Bag.
In acknowledgement of the sad news about David Bowie announced earlier on 11 January 2016, several of the models wore glitter eye make up tributes in his honour.
Key items from the new collection were available for purchase and personalisation on Burberry.com for 10 days after the show, giving consumers the opportunity to own pieces from the runway months before they arrive in store, as part of the brand’s Runway Made to Order service.

Burberry stores in Malaysia are located at Suria KLCC, The Gardens Mid Valley and in Parkson Pavilion.
More info at http://www.burberry.com/
Images courtesy of Burberry.

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Versace Men’s Spring Summer 2019 Collection Show at Via Gesù, Milan, Italy

[Luxury Fashion]

“Inspiration” is a word of yesterday, because is refers to the past as what is relevant today won’t be tomorrow. The Versace Men’s Spring Summer 2019 collection was born from the different emotions felt in different moments during the creation process. The Spring Summer collection plays with the perception of sensuality in a masculine context, so relevant that it can’t help but be gossiped about, from the tabloids to the streets.
High on life, high on the very meaning of being Versace. The Versace man is not ordinary, but rather, he is looked at, talked about, and always turning heads. He expresses himself through his clothes without holding back, his movement always effortlessly powerful, while pushing every boundary and never letting go of his sense of humour.

 “What I put on the runway was inspired by many different kinds of men: the street-style star, the high fashion man, the boardroom executive. I conceived these clothes thinking that each of them could find something that perfectly fits his personal style. These are men who do not care about the rules and that is exactly what I love: they have an opinion and make their own style choices.” Donatella Versace

Nothing short of noticeable, the Versace man is the centre of all the attention. With the new collection, the Versace man brings sexy back to the office, out on the town, and back to his place. The clothes bring out his confidence and masculinity like never before. The business man meets his inner rock star; the street style star meets the skater guy –he is sensual, manly, contemporary, and ready to take risks that get people talking.
A unique play on contrasts that defines him. He is at ease with the ironic mix of lace, sheer, neon and floral print in a modern, masculine context. Traditional sartorial jackets are matched with baggy denim pants. The Tabloid print is a reminder of the celebrity culture we live in.
The Icon shoulder bag is taken from the woman’s wardrobe and worn with printed silk pyjamas, faux python overcoats and black or white looks. Sandals, classic shoes with iconic Medusa Head details, bucket hats and a new edition of the Chain Reaction sneaker stand out as the season’s accessories of choice.
Versace also showcased their Women’s Capsule during the show.

The Versace boutiques in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia are located at:
Lot G29 & G30, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone: +603 2162 0109

Lot 2.25 & 3.2, Level 2 & 3, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone: +603 2141 0677

More info at http://www.versace.com/

Visuals courtesy of Versace Malaysia.

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New Denim Styles at H&M – September 2015

[Fashion]

H&M will introduce 16 new denim styles made using recycled cotton from textiles collected in the Garment Collecting initiative in H&M stores in September 2015. The pieces for men, women and kids, are the latest steps toward H&M’s goal towards preserving the environment by creating a closed loop for fashion.
“Creating a closed loop for textiles, in which unwanted clothes can be recycled into new ones, will not only minimize textile waste, but also significantly reduce the need for virgin resources as well as other impacts fashion has on our planet,“ says Karl-Johan Persson, CEO of H&M.
The new denim pieces are made from recycled cotton and organic cotton. For women there are three (3) styles of jeans, from skinny to distressed ‘girlfriend’ jeans, plus a denim jacket, flared dungarees and a denim jumpsuit.
For men, there is a zip-up denim jacket, alongside two distressed slim leg styles, and a pair of joggers in coated denim.

For kids, there is a zip-up hoodie with cute animal ears, along with stretch jeans sequined at the knee, or a street style hooded shirt, with distressed jeans.
With environmental preservation in mind, H&M wants to create a closed loop for its textiles, in which the fabrics from unwanted clothes can be recycled into new ones. The aim is to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry, by limiting waste that goes to landfill and saving on natural resources used in the production of fabric.
Since 2013, H&M customers worldwide have been able to bring unwanted clothes from any brand into its stores as part of its Garment Collecting Initiative. This initiative has garnered positive response with over 18,000 tonnes collected globally.
Currently H&M is able to use 20% recycled cotton from collected clothes, and is investing in new technology to increase this share without losing quality. H&M has a target to increase the number of garments made with at least 20% recycled fabric by 300% compared to 2014.
The products will be available in all stores worldwide, as well as online from September 2015.
More info at www.hm.com

Click on the individual photos to open a larger version.

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Editor’s Note – January 2017

[Editor’s Note]
First and foremost, I would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year and I’ve like to wish that you have amazing success and love in 2017!
As usual, there were parties galore around the Klang Valley to close off year and celebrate the start of a new one.

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 Happy New Years! Bye 2016 Hello 2017 ❤ best fireworks display in Malaysia I've seen ever and upclose!
A post shared by  𝓢𝓉ℯ𝓅𝒽𝒶𝓃𝒾ℯ 𝓛. (@stephiielim) on Dec 31, 2016 at 11:33am PST

Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers’ Stephanie Lim got a great view of the fireworks at KLCC!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BOtbyKGAm3u/
This was a nice video of the fireworks at Desa Park City.

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 #newyear #happynewyear2017 #2017 #fireworks #celebration #thecurvedamansara #newyear2017
A post shared by  Joleen Tan (@jol_sy) on Dec 31, 2016 at 9:17am PST

A good shot of the fireworks over at The Curve in Mutiara Damansara.

I like how a lot of people have been using the best nine app to create a little collage of their top liked Instagram posts this year. Here’s mine.

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 #2016bestnine of 2016
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 31, 2016 at 7:07pm PST

Although the economy was not pretty good in 2016 and thus many of my clients cut their advertising and promotion budget, I thank God for giving me lots of exclusive and memorable experiences which were hosted by my generous clients throughout the year. Below are a couple of my favourite moments.

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A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 31, 2016 at 12:39am PST

Ended the year with her.

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 MHB Christmas party! Thanks to @tradershotelkl for hosting and  @kerastase_official and @calvinklein for the presents! #mhbchristmasparty
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 24, 2016 at 2:37am PST

Last Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers event of the year which was our Christmas party at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

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 Rogue One: A Star Wars Story premier tonight! #rogueone #starwars #starwarsrogueone #jedi
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 14, 2016 at 10:03am PST

Attending the premier of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story which I thought was one of the best Star Wars movies, and a very inspiring one too!

 Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers 5th Anniversary high tea at EGG Sunway

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 A very memorable birthday indeed!  Celebrating with MHB's two other November babies namely @choomeisze and @mskelly_lovelife  Many thanks to @anterestaurant at 1 Utama Shopping Centre for hosting our dinner.  Photo by @andykho
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Nov 17, 2016 at 3:21am PST

Birthday dinner with my bloggers.

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 Malaysia International Gastronomy Festival 2016 main course at Senja,  Saujana Resort.  #Risotto al Nero di sepia con #Medaglione di #Cappesanta e #Bottarga “Carnaroli” Squid Ink #Risotto with Hokkaido #Scallops Medallion and “Bottarga” #migf #migf2016
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Nov 4, 2016 at 3:59am PDT

Had some really awesome food during the Malaysia International Gastronomy Festival (MIGF) 2016 dinners this year like this awesome main at Senja in Saujana Hotel & Resort.

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 Oyster & Champagne Masterclass dinner hosted by Edward Gallagher from Ireland, grower of Irish Premium oysters and the best-selling Gallagher Special oysters, Laurent Robert from France, award winning boutique champagne maker, and Josh Green, KL’s very own resident ‘Oyster Man’. #oyster #champagne
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on May 27, 2016 at 7:56am PDT

Memorable outings with some close friends.

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 Mini #chocolate #brownie topped with ice cream and sprinkled with salted #popcorn  Paired with The Glenlivet 15. #glenlivetguardians #glenlivet15 #whisky #singlemaltwhisky #scotchwhisky #glenlivet
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Aug 26, 2016 at 9:50pm PDT

Got invited to many experiential Glenlivet Guardians events throughout the year and discovered that my favourite is The Glenlivet 15!

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 At the Breitling SEA launch of the 2016 novelties. #breitling
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on May 12, 2016 at 6:35am PDT

Dressed up not for Halloween but for a Breitling event at KLCC.

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 Richard Clayderman featuring the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) String Ensemble concert at Istana Budaya last night. A really wonderful performance by a tremendously talented pianist! Photo shot with the Fujifilm X-T10 #nofilter #fujifilmxt10 #fujifilm_xseries #fujifilm #richardclayderman #istanabudaya #kualalumpur
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Apr 1, 2016 at 3:21am PDT

Got to watch Richard Clayderman perform live at Istana Budaya.

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 #throwback to Toast The Macallan at The Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur recently. Photo by @andykho for Malaysia's Hottest Bloggers and timchew.net #toastthemacallan #toastthemacallanmy #ritzcarltonkl #macallan
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Oct 8, 2016 at 10:00pm PDT

Attended Toast The Macallan twice! Once with my MHB members.

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 Japanese Kaiseki dinner! #kaiseki #japanesefood #sashimi
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Apr 3, 2016 at 3:54am PDT

Delicious kaiseki Japanese dinner at Yamaguchi Fish Market!

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 Great backdrop for photos – the KL skyline from Mantra Bar in Bangsar Village 2 – the newest rooftop bar in KL!  Photo shot with the Fujifilm X-T10. #fujifilmmy #fujifilmxt10 #fujifilmxseries #mantrabarkl #nofilter #fujifilm #rooftopbar
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Apr 4, 2016 at 6:55am PDT

Had some awesome company!

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 #throwback to our awesome Malaysia International Gastronomy Festival 2016 dinner at Savini #Ristorante #Italian at The International, Kuala Lumpur. #migf #migf2016
A post shared by  Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Nov 17, 2016 at 6:42am PST

Had some very memorable experiences and outings with her.

However sadly as this is Malaysia, there will also be some stupid issue made out of nothing and when I say nothing I mean on the part of this very established fast food chain for which they had to apologise to customers. Ladies and gentleman, I present you – the first stupid issue of 2017!

The apology above was published on McDonald’s Malaysia’s Facebook page after an image of a notice of McDonald’s new “halal only cake policy” went viral and caused a public outcry with many non-Muslims feeling rather offended by it. Read more here – https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/367811
Looking at the issue in an objective manner, we have to ask – what is the basis for such a notice by McDonald’s in the first place? Have droves of parents been bringing alcoholic (which would be pretty irresponsible) or pork laden cakes into McDonald’s during children’s birthday parties? Or is this action done under pressure by JAKIM – the exalted “guardians” of the Islamic faith in Malaysia. Or is this by some overzealous employee in their “Halal compliance” department?
In recent time, our multi-racial and multi-religious country has been overrun by overzealous religious authorities and zealots who feel the need to incite religious and racial hatred to further some political agenda, undeniably putting the country on course to becoming part of the so-called “Islamic State caliphate”.
We must unequivocally resist such efforts which promote religious extremism and safeguard the rights of all citizens that is enshrined in the country’s constitution. Failure to oppose them will undoubtedly present the extremist with an opportunity to influence the policy of the country, leading it down a slippery slope toward a fundamentalist and extremist brand of Islam that will be detrimental to the country’s progression towards a modern, efficient and enlightened state.
Wake up Malaysians and fight for proper governance in our country!

BRYAN ADAMS ‘THE GET UP TOUR’  Live in Kuala Lumpur 2017

Here’s some good news to start off 2017! The Bryan Adams ‘The Get Up Tour’ Live in Kuala Lumpur will be held on the 21 January 2017 at 8.30pm at Malawati Indoor Stadium, Shah Alam. The event will be ticketed at RM688 (VIP), RM488 (Diamond), RM388 (Platinum), RM288 (Gold), RM188 (Silver), RM128 (Bronze-1) and RM98 (Bronze-2) per person.
80’s babies like myself will definitely be thrilled to see him play his greatest hits live like Everything I Do, Heaven, Please Forgive Me, Have You Really Loved a Woman and more!
Tickets are currently on sale via Ticketpro Malaysia at www.ticketpro.com.my or call +603 7880 7999
Bryan Adams is set to release his thirteenth studio album, Get Up (UMe) produced by famed ELO frontman Jeff Lynne and co-written with his long-time collaborator Jim Vallance, the album features nine new songs and four acoustic versions. Get Up is available for pre-order now via all digital partners and includes instant-grat track “You Belong To Me” The album’s lead single, “Brand New Day” is available now and is supported by the official music video directed by Adams and featuring BAFTA Award-winning actress, Helena Bonham Carter along with musician Theo Hutchcraft from acclaimed synth-pop duo Hurts.
As Canada’s best-known ambassador, Adams has spent the last three decades making music history. He has sold upward of 65 million records, toured six continents and achieved #1 status in over 40 countries around the world. He has been awarded the Order of Canada, has been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and has a Star on Canada’s Walk of Fame. Adams has also been nominated for — and won —several Academy Awards, Golden Globes and Grammy Awards. He has a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has been inducted into Wembley’s Square of Fame.
http://WWW.BRYANADAMS.COM / http://www.twitter.com/BryanAdams / http://www.facebook.com/BryanAdams

For further information on ‘Bryan Adams : THE GET UP TOUR’, head over to:
Website: http://www.midaspromotions.com
Facebook : Fat Boys Malaysia
Twitter : @FatBoysMalaysia
Instagram : Fat Boys Malaysia

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Nissan Almera Launched in Malaysia

[Automobile]
Edaran Tan Chong Motors (ETCM) launched their long awaited B-segment model the Nissan Almera at the One World Hotel in Petaling Jaya on 30 October 2012. Nissan ALMERA has been enjoying brisk sales particularly in US, Thailand and China, and has sold more than 500,000 units worldwide and as such ETCM is confident that Nissan’s Best Selling Global Sedan will also repeat this success in Malaysia.
.First up of course was the mandatory round of speeches by ETCM’s big guns and the President of Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co. Ltd
Dato’ Tan Heng Chew, the Executive Deputy Chairman & Group Managing Director of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad said in his opening address, “Tan Chong has truly been part of Malaysia’s nation building journey since Independence. From the generation of Sunny, came the time of Sentra and now, we are continuing our legacy with an all-new B segment sedan, ALMERA. This latest model showcases our continued commitment to providing affordable car ownership to Malaysians from all walks of life.”
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The Executive Director of ETCM, Dato’ Dr Ang Bon Beng said in addition to Nissan’s great legacy and reputation for exceptional product quality and reliability, “Consumers will be pleasantly surprised and pleased with the upscale design, features and comfort that will give more style, technology and space. Nissan ALMERA is not only stylishly designed but what really sets it apart from the competitors are the premium features it has such as best-in-class legroom and boot space and premium technologies,” explained Dato’ Dr Ang.
He added that apart from Nissan ALMERA’s attractive price points, its economical fuel consumption, 10,000km service intervals and affordable, easily attainable spare parts will make the ALMERA’s total ownership cost very appealing.
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Mr. Takayuki Kimura, the President of Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co. Ltd, attributed Nissan’s success to the commitment from valuable partners such as ETCM.
“Tan Chong is an extremely important and valuable partner to our business, and has been instrumental to Nissan’s growth in this region. We are grateful to their endless pursuit for superior service and customer’s satisfaction. This year, thanks to their commitment to deliver excellent customer service, Nissan was ranked No. 1 in the J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2012 Malaysia Sales Satisfaction Index Study. We have no doubt that Nissan ALMERA will mark another great milestone in Nissan’s 55 years of strong partnership with Tan Chong,” commended Mr. Kimura.
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I think the next two photos will being back some memories for some of you. I don’t know where Nissan managed to find the old cars in such good condition but they certainly reminded me of my childhood years as I’ve sat in some of these which were driven by my friends’ parents.
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The Almera has evolved from a long line of famous Nissan cars such as the Sunny 120Y and Sentra. Talk about heritage!
Recognize the cars?
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Then the moment of truth – the unveiling of the new Nissan Almera!
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The Nissan Almera in Sapphire Black. The car comes in four (4) other colours namely Bronze Gold, Twilight Grey, Tungsten Silver and Brilliant White.
Some interesting facts about the Nissan Almera
Quite reasonably priced as you will see below.
You can opt to add on the IMPUL kit for an additional fee of course.
The boot can fit 4 golf bags!
Here’s a look at the headlights, grill and engine bay
A closer look at the engine bay. The engine, radiator and other parts in the bay have been designed in a compact manner to ensure passengers get the maximum room possible in the cabin.
The interior of the cabin. This is the VL version which has all the premium specs. Check out the cool and sporty meter panel.
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Already open for bookings, the all-new Nissan ALMERA truly lives up to its promise of surprisingly more. Even with upscale technology features and spaciousness that are usually found in more premium vehicles, Nissan ALMERA is priced competitively from RM66,800.00 in line with Tan Chong’s commitment to providing affordable car ownership to Malaysians.
The on-the-road price (inclusive of insurance, road tax, registration fee and ownership claim fee) for Peninsular Malaysia will be as follows:

Grade
Variant
Price (RM)

E
1.5 M/T
66,800.00

1.5 A/T
69,800.00

V
1.5 A/T
76,800.00

VL
1.5 A/T
79,800.00

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The Nissan ALMERA is differentiated by the standard specification E, well equipped V & full specification VL. For more personalisation, customers can opt for the exclusive ALMERA Optional Accessories. Premium accessories include the on board multimedia navigation console (with a rear view, DVD player, iPod connectivity, USB and Bluetooth capabilities), LED kicking plate and luxurious leather seats. Sport accessories by IMPUL Motor Racing Development, which have been tailored specifically to suit Malaysian roads, are also available. The complete Tuned by IMPUL package is available for all grades for an additional RM9,500.00.
All models come with a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first).
For more information, contact ETCM’s Customer Service Hotline (toll free): 1800-88-8368 or visit their website at www.nissan.com.my
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More photos at https://www.facebook.com/myhotbloggers
Subscribe to my public updates at https://www.facebook.com/timchewkc
‘Like’ my Facebook page to view loads of content – https://www.facebook.com/timchew1311
Photo credits: ETCM and author’s own
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The very sweet Charlie in the Nissan Almera!

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Dior Homme Summer 2017 Collection

[Luxury Fashion]

The Dior Homme collection for Summer 2017 fashion show was designed by Kris Van Assche, and drove an explicit evolution, channeling the energy of Haçienda youth through the industrial landscape of a utopian fun fair. Order and disorder ran parallel narratives throughout, as flashbacks to the New Wave and a sportif élan were intertwined with the militant crescendo of refined athletic tailoring.
“This season there is a sense of collective consciousness to the collection – a remix of shared boyhood memories,” said Kris Van Assche. “I am interested in a synthesis of generations and filtering subcultures through my own lens to tell a new story.”
Dior describes the collection as progressive silhouette warping perceptions of formality; industrial embellishments converge with the innate savoir-faire of the Dior Homme ateliers as eyelets, sports lacing, staples, and screen-printed suiting wools disrupt any expectations of the two-piece suit. Subverting the sense of classical rigor, bared arms and tonal knitwear illicit moments of summer skin, as articulated harnesses both restrict and suspend.
Musings on a garment’s memory (items found, worn, and destroyed) are explored through artisanal textiles: pinstripes fray, knits bear scars, houndstooth blurs, and Toru Kamei’s arcane floral paintings appear as patched botanical insignias. Migrating across hybrid pieces, a multiplicity of uniform and sportswear elements creates a call-and-repeat of polished utility and tempered rebellion.

“Fun Fair” was the theme of the show and what better epitomises that than a “roller coaster” winding its way through the runway!

The Dior Homme Kuala Lumpur boutique is located at:
129 & 130, 1st Floor, Suria KLCC,
Jalan P Ramlee,
50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Tel (603) 2161 0010
More info at www.dior.com
Images courtesy of Dior Malaysia.
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News – January 2022

[News]
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kuala Lumpur 2021

The much-anticipated Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kuala Lumpur (MBFWKL) 2021 returned in December 2021 with the biggest names in the local, regional, and international fashion industry displaying their latest contemporary designs. MBFWKL continues to serve as a platform for upcoming and seasoned designers in the local fashion industry to showcase their collections and brand-characterising inspirations.
“At Mercedes-Benz, the company expresses modern luxury in the 21st Century with an acute focus on creating ‘sensual purity’ designs through traditional craftsmanship and innovative technology to create authentic and emotional experiences. Similarly, we aim to push boundaries in other areas befitting to provide a holistic lifestyle experience to our customers who understand and appreciate luxury in all forms, fashion included. Through MBFWKL, the event also highlights Fashion Futures, a design competition that aims to promote and support budding talent among young designers in the industry. Through the Fashion Futures Initiative, Mercedes-Benz endeavours to create the opportunity to nurture these innovative and entrepreneurial talents by providing with them a platform to catapult their careers further in the fashion industry.” Ms. Sagree Sardien, President and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia
“As an automotive pioneer brand, we create innovative and desirable cars. For that, design plays a central role in the process of evolution and is deeply rooted in our core. Every Mercedes-Benz you see on the road is designed with Sensual Purity at its core. It is the perfect combination of modern luxury and driving exhilaration. It is amazing to see the inspiration these designers draw from our cars and elevate it through their collection showcase.”Mr. Michael Jopp, VP Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia
The three-day fashion event was held at Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Center (KLPac) in the heart of the city and attended by over 1,000 guests ranging from local designers, celebrities and socialites, fashion muses, key opinion leaders, alongside fashion-forward customers and fans of Mercedes-Benz.
This industry-leading event affirms how trendsetting design, pioneering innovations and modern luxury are all core principles of Mercedes-Benz. The creativity, craftsmanship and technical expertise form the link between the class-leading cars and the cutting-edge world of fashion which also extends to Mercedes-Benz’s global commitment to fashion which spans over 20 years and has grown to reach over 60 platforms in over 45 countries.
Mercedes-Benz also presented its third MBFWKL Fashion Futures Design Competition on the final night, a new, independent competition that will be held yearly as a key component of the show. Targeting Malaysian designers with 6 months to 4 years of work experience in the fashion industry, five finalists are required to produce 4 sets of original Ready-to-Wear looks based on a specific theme provided.
These looks will be judged at the Fashion Futures runway show, with an eventual winner selected based on a tabulation of scores from the judges. The winner of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week KL 2018 Fashion Futures design competition will be sent for an all-expenses-paid trip to attend an international Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week event. Besides being able to mingle with renowned international designers, the winner will also be able to gain exposure and insights into the fashion industry.
Mercedes-Benz has an integrated approach when it comes to design as an essential basis to showcase both the product and brand to perfection to create an elevated experience for customers. The design philosophy of Sensual Purity since 2009 has continuously evolved and encapsulates an essential aspect of product designs – the bipolarity of intelligence and emotion. It is the transformation of traditional luxury to modern age interpretations, making it fascinating, tangible and above all, desirable.
The design DNA has evolved over the years to accentuate individuality and to arouse desire. This is paired with innovation and technology to create an overall integrated experience for the customer. The Mercedes-Benz design ethos is authenticity, emotional and supreme aesthetics that has pushed design forward creativity for a future of progressive luxury.
Committed to the sustainable future of luxury design, Mercedes-Benz proactively works to future-proof the responsible growth of its fashion partnerships. Highlighting best practices and aligning itself with creatives that reflect and champion values such as outstanding and intuitive design, creativity and innovation. Through its Mercedes-Benz Fashion programmes and creative collaborations, the automobile manufacturer has supported nearly 170 designers in over 30 platforms around the world, including Milan, London, New York, Beijing, Australia, Prague, Istanbul, Berlin and Accra, leading a responsible future in fashion.
Lending depth and variety to MBFWKL 2021 are brand partners from across the spectrum of lifestyle and experiential products and services such as The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur, TRESemme, Kimarie Hairdressing, Wycon Cosmetics, Monkey 47, Carlsberg and 1664 Rose.
For more information on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kuala Lumpur 2021, visit www.mbfw-kl.com/

Coming Together for a Smooth Year & Longevity

After a very turbulent Year of the Ox with lots of headwinds, challenges, and even natural disasters here in Malaysia, Carlsberg Malaysia wishes all a Smoother Year and Longevity this Chinese New Year, welcoming the Year of the Tiger with limited edition cans, collectibles and up to RM888 Ang Pau in its ‘Coming Together for a Smoother Year’ 2022 Chinese New Year (CNY) campaign.
Aspiring to be Probably The Best Beer, Carlsberg is ushering in the annual festival with limited-edition CNY cans that accentuates the essence of ‘smoothness’ and ‘longevity’. True to the brand’s CNY tradition, the creative concept behind the specially designed Carlsberg Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg Smooth Draught cans combines the modern identity of Carlsberg with traditional Chinese auspicious icons to wish beer consumers a year of smoothness, longevity, and prosperity.
Complementing the Carlsberg Danish Pilsner’s iconic green can is the Chinese character ‘Fu’ [福] emboldened in gold against a rich red background to celebrate wellbeing and abundance which transcends a healthy, happy and auspicious life.
Wrapped around the silver and white Carlsberg Smooth Draught can on the other hand is a symbol of smoothness in the form of ancient Chinese Treasure ships, portraying smooth sailing and prosperous times ahead.
The prominence of the colour red and gold on both the limited-edition cans and 24-can festive packaging magnify the festive spirit and exudes auspiciousness, which is Carlsberg’s way of wishing everyone a year of smoothness and longevity. Both the limited-edition cans were designed in collaboration with the World’s No.1 expert in Feng Shui and Chinese Metaphysics, Dato’ Joey Yap. His signature is featured across all Carlsberg’s CNY festive packaging whilst his readings on each Zodiac fortune are also featured exclusively on Carlsberg’s playing cards.
“As we usher in the new year, we want to uplift spirits and encourage all our consumers to look forward with optimism and positivity. It’s been a while since we’ve been able to meet-up, catch-up and look ahead with joy and cheer. We hope that our campaign themed ‘Coming together for a smoother year’ encourages consumers to stay positive in embracing a smooth sailing year ahead and a long and healthy life. Together we will prosper and emerge stronger.” Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia
From 27 December 2021 until 6 February 2022, consumers stocking up for the coming CNY celebrations will enjoy more rewards when buying their Carlsberg products at participating outlets, including premium Neoflam hotpot casserole sets, elegant tiffin carriers, special Dato’ Joey Yap Edition playing cards, novel Neoflam glass container sets and up to RM888 in Ang Pau (cash) or in e-Wallet credit.
Shoppers who purchase any two (2) cartons of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner or Carlsberg Smooth Draught plus a carton of any premium brands (Somersby, 1664 Blanc/Rose, Connor’s or Asahi) at participating supermarkets, hypermarkets, 99 Speedmart and eCommerce platforms will be able to redeem a 28cm natural non-stick Neoflam Casserole Hotpot Set worth RM209, which comes with a ‘Da Long Yi’ soup base, plus a can of Connor’s and a deck of special Dato’ Joey Yap Edition playing cards.
Over in East Malaysia, purchasing any one (1) carton of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner or Carlsberg Smooth Draught plus a carton of any premium brands rewards you with a sleek and modern Neoflam glass container set worth RM118, which comes in a set of two, measuring 470ml and 800ml. The containers are heat-safe and thermal shock resistant, airtight and leakproof too.
Additionally, bring along your favourite CNY dishes to reunion dinners in an elegant red Tiffin carrier with CNY motifs by The Tiffin Company worth RM79, easily redeemable by purchasing any six sets of 4-can pack or a carton of 1664 Blanc, Asahi, Carlsberg Special Brew or Connor’s, plus you will receive an extra can of Connor’s.
Consumers who enjoy big bottles of the Carlsberg Danish Pilsner, Carlsberg Smooth Draught and Carlsberg Special Brew, stand to win over RM3 million worth of prizes! Just check the flip side of your bottle caps at participating food courts and coffee shops, and you might just win yourrself one of the 6,000 Ang Pau’s up for grabs this festive season.
The special Dato’ Joey Yap Edition playing cards is a giveaway with purchase of a tower, two buckets or with six full pints, 10 half-pints or 10 mugs of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner or Carlsberg Smooth Draught. One can also scan the QR code to upload your receipt to stand a chance of winning up to RM888 Touch ‘n Go e-Wallet credit. If you are in East Malaysia, each lucky winner will receive RM888 GrabPay e-Wallet credits. Carlsberg is giving this out to 25 lucky winners weekly.
You can also visit the Carlsberg official store on Lazada and Shopee, Pandamart as well as Potboy and purchase an exclusive CNY Gift Pack by Carlsberg and Amazin’ Graze. You will be treated to a total of eight cans which include both the limited-edition CNY Carlsberg Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg Smooth Draught cans plus a can of either Asahi, 1664 Blanc, 1664 Rosé, Connor’s Stout Porter, Somersby Apple Cider and Somersby Watermelon Cider, giving you a variety of choice for your celebration. Also included in the Gift Pack are four packs of healthy assorted nuts from Amazin’ Graze, and exclusive Ang Pau packets that come in two collectible designs of “Smoothness” and “Longevity”.
From 1 January until 28 February 2022, Carlsberg is rewarding consumers with up to RM388 Touch n’ Go e-Wallet credits when purchasing RM20 worth of Carlsberg Malaysia products at selected convenient stores.
For more information on all ongoing Chinese New Year promotions and events, head over to https://www.carlsbergcny.com.my

Skirt Night Returns at Bentley’s Pub, Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur
Photo by Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur
Skirt Night returns at Bentley’s Pub at Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur after a long hiatus due to the lengthy lockdowns. Pre-pandemic, Bentley’s Pub was quite a popular joint where PMEBs came over for happy hour and drinks as there are multiple office buildings surrounding Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur, including Citibank which is right next door.
Anyone in a skirt enjoys their choice of a complimentary beverage of Tiger Draught mugs or House Pouring Wines. Skirt Night at Bentley’s Pub happens every 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 evening from 𝟔:𝟎𝟎𝐩𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝟖:𝟎𝟎𝐩𝐦.
Thanks for having us over!
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Photo credits: Respective brands and author’s own

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Editor’s Note – December 2017

[Editor’s Note]

December is always my favourite month of the year (after my birthday month that is) as there’s Christmas and New Year’s Eve which is a great time to spend with loved ones and friends. Look out for my Christmas and NYE feature which will include the info on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day dinners and menus, as well as the NYE parties happening in Kuala Lumpur.
Speaking of my birthday, many thanks to ANTE in 1 Utama Shopping Centre for hosting my birthday dinner (again!). As usual, the food was absolutely delicious especially the pork steaks! Also, many thanks to Macallan for the single malt whisky!

Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 Military

Bell & Ross launched their Vintage BR V1-92 Military which is part of the 3rd generation of the Vintage Collection. The new timepiece takes inspiration from the history of aviation and military codes. This minimalist and timeless watch combines the past and present and will fit perfectly on any wrist.
This 38.5 mm authentic military version offers a reading which emphasizes the minutes on the large face reminiscent of the navigation watches used by military pilots to calculate their direction or speed. Reinterpreting the style of the past, the photoluminescent triangle at 12 o’clock enabled the pilots to instantly get their bearings, even in the dark.

Technical Specifications
Movement: Calibre BR-CAL.302. Automatic mechanical.
Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds and date.
Crystal: Ultra-curved sapphire with anti-reflective coating.
Case:  38.5 mm in diameter. Satin-polished steel.
Water Resistance: 100 metres
Dial: Black
Strap: Brown calfskin
Buckle: Pin. Steel.

The Bell & Ross BR V1-92 Military retails in Malaysia at RM9,600 and it is available at Bell & Ross Boutiques (located at Pavilion KL, The Gardens, Gurney Plaza) and selected authorized watch retailers.

How to Deal with Millennials – The Entitled, Narcissistic, and Lazy Generation

A huge component of my company MHB is managing bloggers and social media influencers who are millennials or Generation Y. These are persons born after 1985 up to the early 2000, and are a generation that many bosses (who are usually older persons from Gen X and beyond) especially in corporate management find difficult to understand. This is because many of these millennials are extremely hard to handle, and often behave in an unprofessional manner which is unacceptable in the workplace.
Fortunately, Simon Sinek, who is a British/American author, motivational speaker and marketing consultant offers some solutions to the conundrum. He is the author of three books including the 2009 best seller Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action (2009).
If you’re in management and are at your wits’ end as to how to deal with your millennial staff, this video is for you. If you’re a millennial, Simon also offers some words of advise for you.
The main point for millennials is – when you focus is on helping others, you naturally stop being so self-centred and narcissistic.
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Porsche Club Malaysia’s Annual Dinner 2013 and Jabra Solemate Launch

Porsche Club Malaysia’s Annual Dinner 2013
[Event]
I had the opportunity to attend the Porsche Club Annual Dinner 2013 on 15 December 2013 at the KL Golf & Country Club. No I don’t own a Porsche in case you were wondering, unless you count my little 1/24 scale model that is.
I have to digress here for a moment and say that there seem to be more and more golddiggers around as I know girls who love to date guys who drive Porsches or other sports cars. Of course each person has his/ her own objectives in life but girls using looks and their body to get cash or luxury items or a high-end lifestyle eating fine dining and going on trips, etc. etc. just doesn’t deserve any respect in my books. Sometimes the people who you think you know will surprise and disappoint you with their hunger for the luxury lifestyle. Perhaps one day I’ll write a book of all my brushes with bimbos and golddiggers…

No offence intended to any Porsche owners of course. I’m sure most owners worked long and hard to earn their fortunes and be able to afford a Porsche especially in Malaysia with the ridiculously high import and excise duties. Much respect to people who make it on their own intelligence and by the sweat of ones brow and conduct their work/ business in an ethical manner.
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 The annual dinner was a double celebration as it was also the Porsche 911’s 50th anniversary
                    There were lots of Porsches parked outside from the newest to some really classic ones!

          Also bumped into the delicious Nadia Heng there             My partner in crime for the night – Shen Yee from Tattler magazine

 Lots of ice cold Sapporo beer!
 The very colourful usherettes!
 Bevy of beauties – Miss World Malaysia 2011 Chloe Chen, Miss World Malaysia 2012 Lee Yvonne, and popular MC Julie Woon (L-R)
A highlight of the evening was the fashion show by Amee Philips which had all the women going “Ahhhhh!” and all the men going “Arghhh!”. Didn’t manage to take any shots of the show itself but I managed to arranged for the models to pose for a shot outside at their display.

          This one kinda remined me of the diamond in the movie Titanic – draw me Jack, wearing this, wearing only this!

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More info on the Porsche Club Malaysia at http://cms.porsche-clubs.com/PorscheClubs/pc_malaysia/pc_main.nsf/web/C125773B003BCD7DC12571ED0053EA99
Or follow their exploits on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/porscheclubmalaysia
More info on Amee Philips at http://www.ameephilips.com/
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Jabra Solemate Launch
[Tech & Gadgets]

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Andy Kho and I headed over to WonderMama in Bangsar Village 1 (which has some lovely and affordable fusion Malaysian food!) on 28 November 2013 for the Jabra Solemate launch.
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 Jabra Solemate Mini (top), Jabra Solemate NFC (middle), Jabra Solemate Max (bottom) – we purposely stacked the speakers to give you a size comparison.
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Now as most of you will remember, I reviewed the Jabra Solemate a year ago and a year on I’m privileged to be invited to preview the new 2nd generation of Jabra Solemate, called the Jabra Solemate NFC, which is available in red, blue, yellow and greyscale. Jabra has added super-fast Near Field Communication (NFC) pairing to the device for added convenience. By simply tapping your NFC-enabled device and your Solemate together, you’re instantly connected, and to disconnect just tap them together again!
Along with the Jabra Solemate NFC, Jabra also launch two (2) more models of its portable speakers:
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Jabra Solemate Mini
Going on a holiday? Bring along the compact Jabra Solemate Mini which is compact yet durable enough to handle the scrapes and bumps of regular use with all round rubber protection and resistance to sweat, dust and splashes.
Here are some of its key features:
· Long playback time with a battery life of up to 8 hours
· Easy pairing using Bluetooth or NFC and wirelessly controlled from across the room
· Integrated cable in the sole of the speaker so you have the choice to connect wirelessly or wired
· Exciting range of bold primary colours –  red, yellow and blue or classic black
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Jabra SolemateTM Max
This big guy was definitely the hero of the day.
Here are some of its key features:
• Two tweeters, two woofers, a custom-designed bass slave and Dolby Sound Space Expander that plays your music wirelessly, the way it should be heard
• A rechargeable battery for 14 hours of listening pleasure, plus you can charge your phone while playing your music
• Resistance to dirt, dust and water so you can venture outdoors
• A high-tech design that looks as good in your living room as it does out in the garden
• No wires and easy pairing with Bluetooth® or NFC
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Also launch was the Jabra Sound App with Dolby Digital Plus which delivers a sound space enhancer giving extra depth and dimension of the sound emerging from the Solemate.
Pricing:
The Jabra Solemate Mini has an RRP of RM379.00
The Jabra Solemate NFC has an RRP of RM599.00
The Jabra Solemate Max has an RRP of RM1,399.00
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For more information, head over to http://www.jabra.com
Photo credits: Andy Kho Photography (www.andykho.com) and author both using the Sony NEX-5T. More info at https://timchew.net/2013/10/01/sony-new-camera-2013-launch/ or http://www.sony.com.my
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The Hobbit – The Desolation Of Smaug
[Movie]

From Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson comes “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug,” the second in a trilogy of films adapting the enduringly popular masterpiece The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien.
The three films tell a continuous story set in Middle-earth 60 years before “The Lord of the Rings,” which Jackson and his filmmaking team brought to the big screen in the blockbuster trilogy that culminated with the Oscar®-winning “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.”
“The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” continues the adventure of the title character Bilbo Baggins as he journeys with the Wizard Gandalf and thirteen Dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield, on an epic quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor.
Having survived the beginning of their unexpected journey, the Company continues East, encountering along the way the skin-changer Beorn and a swarm of giant Spiders in the treacherous forest of Mirkwood. After escaping capture by the dangerous Wood-elves, the Dwarves journey to Lake-town, and finally to the Lonely Mountain itself, where they must face the greatest danger of all—a creature more terrifying than any other; one which will test not only the depth of their courage but the limits of their friendship and the wisdom of the journey itself—the Dragon Smaug.
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tomcat says – I had the chance to catch the media preview of this movie in IMAX and I thought it had some stunning visual effects and the storyline was more fast-paced as compared to the first movie in this trilogy. There’s also some eye-candy for you guys in the form of Tauriel the female elv, played by Evangeline Lilly. There’s also Legolas played by Orlando Bloom for you ladies. BTW do catch it in IMAX if you can.
The Hobbit – The Desolation of Smaug opens in Malaysian cinemas on 12 December 2013
For more info, head over to http://www.thehobbit-asia.com
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Mini Countryman Launch

[Automotive News]
BMW Group Malaysia introduced the brand new MINI Countryman on 24 March 2011 at the old KL Railway Station, completing the range of MINI vehicles available in Malaysia. As the fourth variant in its model family, the eagerly-anticipated MINI Countryman represents a series of firsts for the iconic MINI name.
The MINI Countryman is the first MINI to feature four doors, a versatile interior layout offering space for five people and a large tailgate offering access to more than double the storage space of previous MINI vehicles. Whilst the MINI Countryman may sound like a more ‘grown-up’ version of the MINI, it has lost none of the trademark, go-kart drive feel of the MINI, even taking it a step further with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system available with the MINI Cooper S Countryman. All in, the MINI Countryman expresses the defining virtues of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, performance and scope for customisation – all traditions of this premium marque.
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Introducing the new MINI Countryman, Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “From the start, the MINI name has always been synonymous with excitement, cheekiness and performance; characteristics that are in abundance with the new MINI Countryman that we are introducing today. The MINI Countryman represents everything that is great about the MINI and magnifies it. It is all about the 4 – 4th Family Member, 4 Doors, 4 Wheel Drive and built larger than 4 Metres in size!”
Briscoe further added that the MINI brand continues to be a successful and growing brand for BMW Group Malaysia, saying “In 2010, BMW Group Malaysia sold a total of 222 MINI’s, a growth of 3.7 percent compared to the preceding year and with todays launch of the new MINI Countryman, we are looking forward to continuing MINI’s success in Malaysia.”
As the world’s first maker of the premium iconic car, MINI broke new ground when the brand was re-introduced in 2001 by the BMW Group. Built around a strategy of combining advanced vehicle and chassis technology, uncompromising “Go-Kart” drive quality and an inimitable style, MINI quickly earned a special niche in car markets the world over.
“The MINI Countryman represents an assured evolution of the brand’s design language, bridging the gap between the classic MINI concept and a future projection of its capabilities. Even with larger body dimensions, increased ground clearance and four doors, the MINI Countryman is still unmistakeably a MINI.” said Farid Sulaiman, MINI Manager at BMW Group Malaysia.
Available in the Malaysian market from March 24 onwards, the MINI Countryman will be made available in two 1.6 litre engine variants; the MINI Cooper Countryman and the MINI Cooper S Countryman.
Originally introduced for MINI in mid-2010, the 1.6-litre four-cylinder unit also boast a host of technical features, enabling the optimal combination of performance and fuel efficiency. The MINI Cooper Countryman’s drivetrain develops 90kW/122 hp, enabling the car to hit the 0 to 100 km/h mark in 11.6 seconds with an average fuel consumption of 7.6 litres per 100km and a CO2 emission rating of 177 grams per km. The MINI Cooper S Countryman, meanwhile, sees the addition of a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection complemented by fully variable valve management to the 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine,  with 135kW/184 hp, enabling the car to hit the 0 to 100 km/h mark in 8.3 seconds, offering by far the best balance between output and fuel consumption in its displacement class.
The result is a new, traction-led expression of the agile handling for which MINI is famed. This ability is underpinned by sophisticated new suspension technology, which includes a front axle with MacPherson spring struts and forged track control arms, multi-link rear suspension and the electromechanical power steering system EPS. The MINI Countryman comes as standard with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, while Dynamic Traction Control will be a standard feature only on the MINI Cooper S Countryman and includes electronic locking function for the front axle differential.
The MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive, which comes standard on the MINI Cooper S Countryman allows the driving fun you expect from the brand to be experienced off the beaten track as well. The permanent all-wheel-drive system’s quick and precise responses to changing conditions provide a new, traction-led expression of the handling talents for which MINI is famed. Here, an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive varies the distribution of power seamlessly between the front and rear axles. In normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the drive is sent to the rear wheels, with as much as 100 per cent being channeled during extreme situations.
Externally, the MINI Countryman provides a familiar interpretation of classic MINI features, such as the roof line, hexagonal radiator grille, large headlights set into the bonnet, side indicator surrounds, capacious wheel arches and vertical rear light clusters. Using the MINI design language as a starting point, the MINI Countryman then showcases its own individualism with its individual design language. Large glass surfaces and distinctive contours of the roof provide an expansive visual cue of the MINI Countryman’s increase in interior space and four-door layout.
The extra-wide border around the lower part of the body and powerfully bolstered wheel arches are a nod to the robustness of the vehicle and its all-wheel drive capabilities. In wheel offering, the MINI Cooper Countryman features 17 inch light alloy wheels with 5-Star Double Spoke whilst the MINI Cooper S Countryman offers 18 inch light alloy wheels in anthracite and with Turbo Fan design.
The MINI Countryman comes as standard as a five seater with ample space to ensure comfort over long journeys with generous legroom, headroom and shoulder room. The rear seats can be moved forwards and backwards individually in a 60 : 40 split, and the backrests can be folded down either individually in a 40 : 20 : 40 split, all of which allows luggage capacity to be increased from 350 litres to a maximum of 1,170 litres.
The interior of the MINI Countryman also boasts a selection of new design and functional elements. The slightly raised seating position allows easy entry, optimises the driver’s view over the road and reinforces the powerful character of the new model. The Centre Speedometre and air vents are bordered by chrome lining. The unique MINI Centre Rail, meanwhile, runs lengthwise through the middle of the interior in place of a conventional centre console and opens up new ways of integrating storage spaces and accessories just as you want them.
A newly configured range of exterior colours featuring eleven new exterior colour options in the form of Pure Red, Bright Yellow, Surf Blue, Light Coffee, Light White, Absolute Black, Cosmic Blue, Oxford Green, Crystal Silver, Royal Grey and True Blue now extends the MINI colour palate. Meanwhile inside, upholstery materials in cloth leather in Parallel Lines of Carbon Black with choices of Pure Red or Light Tobacco, allows for a particularly harmonious combination with the interior Carbon Black Colour Line. Automatic air conditioning and an audio system with CD player are all fitted as standard, while the model-specific array of optional equipment packages available for the MINI Countryman includes the glass roof package and MINI Connected package
The glass roof package offers one touch operation and convenient opening of a panoramic glass roof through radio-remote control key. The package can be obtained for an additional RM 9, 988.
On the other hand, the MINI Connected package is a suite of technology features that opens the door to a globally unique form of in-car entertainment, utilising technology specifically developed to integrate the telecommunications, entertainment and online functions of an iPhone into the MINI, using a cable supplied with MINI Connected for the USB socket or via a snap-in adapter.
Functions of MINI Connected introduced include the world’s first web radio function to allow users to pick up their preferred radio stations from around the world regardless of their locations, user-definable RSS news feeds and much more. Also included in the MINI Connected package is a Harmon Kardon HiFi loudspeaker system (480W/ 10 speakers) and Radio MINI Visual Boost with a 6.5 inches high-resolution colour LCD screen. The MINI Connected package retails at RM 14, 988.
The retail prices (on the road for personal registration, without insurance, with the MINI Tender Loving Care service package) for the new MINI Cooper Countryman and MINI Cooper S Countryman are as follows: –
MINI Cooper Countryman                   –           RM 248, 888
MINI Cooper S            Countryman                –           RM 285, 888
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MINI Countryman

Technical Data

Cooper
CooperS

Countryman
Countryman ALL4

Engine type

N16B16M0
N18B16M0

Gearbox

automatic transmission 6
automatic transmission 6

Doors / Seats
— / —
5 / 4
5 / 4

Veh. length / width / height (*with antenne)
mm / mm / mm
4097 / 1789 / 1561 (*1579)
4110 / 1789 / 1561 (*1579)

Wheelbase / Turning circle
mm / m
2595 / 11.6
2595 / 11.6

Track front / rear
mm / mm
1534 / 1559
1525 / 1551

Overhang front / rear
mm / mm
764 / 738
770 / 745

Ground clearance
mm
149
149

Shoulder room front / rear
mm / mm
1341 / 1323
1341 / 1323

Elbow width front / rear
mm / mm
1378 / 1360
1378 / 1360

Max. headroom front / rear
mm / mm
1013 / 953
1013 / 953

Luggage volume
m³
0,350/0,450-1,170
0,350/0,450-1,170

Fuel tank capacity
liter
47
47

Curb weight (DIN) / (EC)
Kg / Kg
1295 / 1370
1405 / 1480

Weight distribution
%
40.2
40.2

Gross veh. weight / Payload
Kg / Kg
1765 / 470
1865 / 460

Axle load limit front / rear
Kg / Kg
960 / 855
1000 / 895

Trailer load braked 12% / 8%
Kg / Kg
1000  / 1000
1000  / 1000

Trailer load unbraked / nose weight
Kg / Kg
500 /
500 / 75

Gross veh. weight w. trailer
Kg
1840
1940

Rear axle load w. trailer
Kg
959
997

Roof load
Kg
75
75

Engine type / Cylinder / Valves
— / — / —
in line / 4 / 4
in line / 4 / 4

Fuel management
—
MEV 1722
MEVD 1722

Injection type / Charging type
— / —
SR(VVT) / –
DI2,VVT / TwinScroll Turbo

Displacement
cm³
1598
1598

Stroke / Bore
mm / mm
85.8 / 77
85.8 / 77

Engine power / Engine speed
KW (PS) / 1/min
90 (122)/ 6000
135 (184) / 5500

Engine torque / Engine speed
Nm / 1/min
160 / 4250
240 / 1600-5000
 (Overboost: 260Nm/1700-4500 1/min)

Compression rate / Fuel type ( Recomm. )
:1 / —
11 / ROZ91-98 ( ROZ95 )
10.5 / ROZ91-98 ( ROZ95 )

Emission classification
—
EU5
EU5

Gearbox name
—
AW 260K
AW 225K

1st gear / 2nd gear / 3rd gear / 4th gear
— / — / — / —
4.148 / 2.37 / 1.556 / 1.155
4.044 / 2.371 / 1.556 / 1.159

5th gear / 6th gear / 7th gear / 8th gear
— / — / — / —
0.859 / 0.686 /  /
0.852 / 0.672 /  /

Rear gear
—
3.394
3.193

Final drive
—
4.643
3.683

Steering type / Transmission ratios
— / :1
rack-and-pinion (EPS)/ 14.1
rack-and-pinion (EPS)/ 14.1

Front brake / diameter x thickness
— / mm
disc ventilated / 294 x 22
disc ventilated / 307 x 24

Rear brake / diameter x thickness
— / mm
disc / 280 x 10
disc / 280 x 10

Cx / A / Cx x A
— / m² / m²
 0.35 / 2.36 / 0.83
 0.36 / 2.36 / 0.85

Top speed (optional)
Km/h
182
205

0-100Km/h
s
11.6
8.3

0-1000m
s
33.3
29

80-120Km/h (4.) / 80-120Km/h (5.)
s / s
 /
 /

Output per litre
KW/dm³
56.3
84.5

Weight ratio
Kg/KW
14.4
10.4

KV01 city
L/100Km
9.9
10.9

KV01 highway
L/100Km
6.3
6.5

KV01 combined / Range
L/100Km / km
7.6 / 620
8.1 / 580

CO2 combined
g/Km
177
189

CO / NOx / HC
g/Km / g/Km / g/Km
 /  /
 /  /

NMHC / HC+NOx / Particles
g/Km / g/Km / g/Km
 /  /
 /  /

Front tyre
—
205/60 R16 92H
205/55 R17 91V

Rear tyre
—
205/60 R16 92H
205/55 R17 91V

Rear rim
—
6,5J x 16 LM
7J x 17 LM

Rear rim
—
6,5J x 16 LM
7J x 17 LM

Run flat
—
no
yes

Wheel offset front / rear
mm / mm
46 / 46
50 / 50

Radiator incl. Heater / Engine oil **
liter / liter
6 / 4.2
6 / 4.2

Transmission fluid
—
permanent
permanent

Battery / Battery position
Ah / —
55 / engine compartement
55 / engine compartement

Alternator
— / W
120 / 1680
120 / 1680

EfficientDynamics

MSA / EPS / IGR
— / — / —
no / yes / no
no / yes / no

Aerodyn. / fuel-econ. oils
— / —
no / no
no / no

ROWI****/ A/C cmpr. cplg. / map-opt. oilp.
— / — / —
no / no / no
no / no / no

.
BMW Group Malaysia hari ini memperkenalkan MINI Countryman serba baru, melengkapkan barisan kenderaan MINI yang ditawarkan di Malaysia. Sebagai varian keempat dalam keluarga modelnya, MINI Countryman yang dinanti-nantikan ini mewakili keluaran pertama yang memperkenalkan ciri-ciri yang baru bagi jenama MINI yang ikonik.
MINI Countryman adalah MINI pertama yang menampil ciri empat pintu, ruang dalaman serbaguna yang menawarkan ruang bagi lima orang dan pintu belakang yang besar untuk memberikan akses lebih daripada dua kali ganda ruang simpanan berbanding model-model MINI sebelum ini. Tatkala MINI Countryman mungkin berbunyi seakan versi MINI yang `lebih matang’, ia langsung tidak kehilangan ciri keasliannya, rasa pemanduan ‘go-kart’ MINI, malah meningkatkan setahap lagi dengan sistem pacuan semua roda MINI ALL4 yang boleh didapati pada model MINI Cooper S Countryman. Keseluruhannya, MINI Countryman melahirkan nilai-nilai khusus jenama ini daripada segi reka bentuk, kualiti premium, prestasi dan skop bagi pengubahsuaian – kesemuanya tradisi jenama premium ini.
Semasa memperkenalkan MINI Countryman serba baru ini, Geoffrey Briscoe, Pengarah Urusan BMW Group Malaysia berkata, “Daripada awal, jenama MINI telah sentiasa sinonim dengan keseronokan, kenakalan dan prestasi; perwatakan-perwatakan yang sedia ada  pada MINI Countryman yang kami perkenalkan hari ini. MINI Countryman mewakili segala-galanya yang hebat mengenai MINI dan mengandakannya lagi. Semuanya berkaitan 4 – anggota keempat keluarga, 4 pintu, pacuan empat roda dan dibina lebih panjang daripada 4 meter dari segi saiz!’’.
Briscoe menambah lagi bahawa jenama MINI terus menjadi jenama yang berjaya dan semakin penting bagi BMW Group Malaysia. “Pada 2010, BMW Group Malaysia menjual sebanyak 222 MINI, suatu pertumbuhan sebanyak 3.7 peratus berbanding tahun sebelumnya dan dengan pelancaran MINI Countryman hari ini, kami yakin ia akan meneruskan kejayaan MINI di Malaysia.”
Sebagai pembuat kereta ikon premium pertama di dunia, MINI mencatatkan sejarah apabila jenama MINI diperkenalkan semula pada 2001 oleh BMW Group. Dibina dengan strategi menggabungkan teknologi kenderaan dan chasis yang maju, kualiti pemanduan “Go-Kart” yang tiada tolok banding dan gaya yang tidak boleh ditiru, MINI pantas menjadi kenderaan khusus yang istimewa dalam pasaran kereta di seluruh dunia.
“MINI Countryman mewakili evolusi jenama menerusi bahasa reka bentuk istimewanya, menutup jurang antara konsep klasik MINI dan rekabentuk masa depan. Walaupun dengan dimensi badan yang lebih besar, pelepasan permukaan yang ditambah dan empat pintu, MINI Countryman tidak ragu-ragu lagi tetapi sebuah MINI.” kata Farid Sulaiman, Pengurus MINI di BMW Group Malaysia.
Model MINI Countryman boleh diperolehi di pasaran Malaysia bermula 24 Mac,  dan akan ditawarkan dalam dua varian enjin 1.6 liter; MINI Cooper Countryman dan MINI Cooper S Countryman.
Asalnya diperkenalkan untuk MINI pada pertengahan 2010, enjin 1.6 liter empat silinder ini juga memaparkan beberapa ciri teknikal yang membolehkan gabungan optimal prestasi dan kecekapan bahan api. Enjin MINI Cooper Countryman menjana 90kW/122 kuasa kuda (hp), membolehkan kereta itu mencapai 0 hingga 100 kmj dalam 11.6 saat dengan purata penggunaan bahan api sebanyak 7.6 liter setiap 100km dan kadar pelepasan CO2 sebanyak 177 grams setiap km. Manakala MINI Cooper S Countryman, menyaksikan tambahan turbocaj ‘twin-scroll’ dan suntikan terus disokong oleh pengurusan injap bermasa sepenuhnya kepada enjin petrol 1.6 liter empat silinder, dengan 135kW/184 hp, membolehkan kereta itu mencecah 0 hingga 100 kmj dalam 8.3 saat, menawarkan imbangan terbaik antara output dan penggunaan bahan api dalam kelas enjinnya.
 Hasilnya adalah cetusan baru, dipacu kuasa kilas pada kendalian cergas yang mana MINI sangat mahsyur. Keupayaan ini diperteguhkan oleh teknologi sistem gantungan baru yang canggih, yang merangkumi gandar depan dengan gegelung MacPherson dan batang kawalan trek, gantungan belakang pelbagai rangkaian dan sistem kuasa kemudi elektromekanikal eps. MINI Countryman didatangkan standard dengan sistem ‘Dynamic Stability Control’ (DSC), manakala Dynamic Traction Control pula hanya ada pada MINI Cooper S Countryman dan merangkumi fungsi kunci elektronik bagi front axle differential.
Pacuan semua roda MINI ALL4, yang merupakan ciri standard pada MINI Cooper S Countryman membolehkan anda menikmati keseronokan pemanduan sebagaimana yang anda jangkakan dari jenama ini pada permukaan jalan yang tidak sempurna juga. Sistem pacuan semua roda kekal tersebut memberikan tindak balas pantas dan tepat kepada perubahan permukaan. Ini memberikan cetusan baru, dipacu kuasa kilas pada pengendalian kereta, sesuatu ciri di mana MINI sangat dikenali. Di sini, pusat pengubah elektromagnetik diletakkan pada kedudukan langsung pada pemanduan akhir mempelbagaikan edaran kuasa secara lancar antara gandar depan dan belakang. Dalam keadaan pemanduan biasa, sehingga 50 peratus pemanduan dihantar ke roda belakang,  dengan sebanyak 100 peratus disalurkan semasa keadaan ekstrem.
Di bahagian luaran, MINI Countryman memberikan tafsiran yang menyerupai ciri-ciri klasik MINI, seperti garisan bumbung, jeriji radiator segi enam (hexagonal), lampu depan besar terletak ke dalam bonet, petunjuk sisi sekeliling, wheel arch yang luas dan bergaya dan kelompok lampu belakang menegak. Menggunakan bahasa reka bentuk MINI sebagai titik permulaan, MINI Countryman kemudiannya memaparkan individualisme dengan bahasa reka bentuknya yang tersendiri. Pemukaan cermin besar dan kontor bumbung yang ketara, memberikan bayangan visual luas pada pertambahan dari segi ruangan dan kedudukan empat pintu MINI Countryman.
Sempadan yang kini lebih besar di sekitar bahagian bawah badan dan arches roda yang diperkukuhkan lagi adalah petanda keperkasaan kenderaan ini dan keupayaan pacuan semua rodanya. Daripada segi roda, MINI Cooper Countryman menawarkan rim roda aloi ringan 17 inci dengan motif 5-Bintang Double Spoke manakala MINI Cooper S Countryman menawarkan rim roda aloi ringan 18 inci dalam reka bentuk anthracite dan Turbo Fan.
Semua model MINI Countryman  mempunyai lima tempat duduk dengan ruang yang mencukupi untuk memastikan keselesaan bagi perjalanan jauh dengan ruang kaki, kepala dan bahu yang memuaskan. Kerusi belakang boleh dialih ke depan dan ke belakang secara satu-satu dalam pecahan 60 : 40, dan tempat rehat belakang boleh dilipat ke bawah sama ada secara sendiri dalam pecahan 40 : 20 : 40, semuanya yang mana ia membolehkan kapasiti ruang barangan ditambah dari 350 liter ke 1,170 liter.
Ruang dalaman MINI Countryman juga memaparkan pilihan reka bentuk dan elemen-elemen fungsi yang baru. Kedudukan tempat duduk yang dinaikkan sedikit membolehkan kemasukan penumpang dengan mudah, mengoptimumkan pandangan pemandu pada jalan dan mengukuhkan perwatakan bertenaga model baru ini. Meter laju tengah dan cerombong pendingin udara disempadankan dengan garisan krom. MINI Centre Rail yang unik, menjalar ke paras pinggang menerusi ruang tengah dalaman menggantikan konsol tengah konvensional dan membuka cara baru menyepadukan ruang simpanan dengan aksesori mengikut cara kemahuan anda.
Pilihan warna badan baru memaparkan 11  pilihan warna dalam bentuk ‘Pure Red’, ‘Bright Yellow’, ‘Surf Blue’, ‘Light Coffee’, ‘Light White’, ‘Absolute Black’, ‘Cosmic Blue’, ‘Oxford Green’, ‘Crystal Silver’, ‘Royal Grey’ dan ‘True Blue’ kini meningkatkan pilihan warna bagi MINI. Manakala di dalam, bahan-bahan disalut sarung kulit dalam Garisan Sejajar ‘Carbon Black’ dengan pilihan warna ‘Pure Red’ atau ‘Light Tobacco’, membolehkan gabungan harmoni bersama Garisan Warna ‘Carbon Black’ dalam ruang dalaman. Sistem pendingin hawa automatik dan sistem audio beserta pemain cakera padat semua dipasang standard, manakala pakej peralatan pilihan khusus-model  juga ditawarkan bagi MINI Countryman termasuk pakej cermin bumbung dan pakej MINI Connected.
Pakej cermin bumbung  menawarkan operasi satu sentuhan dan kemudahan membuka bumbung cermin panorama menerusi kunci kawalan jauh. Pakej ini boleh diperolehi dengan tambahan RM 9, 988.
Selain itu, pakej MINI Connected adalah satu suit ciri-ciri teknologi  yang membuka pintu kepada bentuk  global unik hiburan dalam-kereta, menggunakan teknologi yang dibangunakan khusus untuk menyepadukan telekomunikasi, hiburan dan fungsi dalam talian sebuah iPhone ke dalam MINI, menggunakan kabel yang dibekalkan dengan MINI Connected melalui soket USB atau menerusi adapter.
Fungsi-fungsi MINI Connected yang diperkenalkan merangkumi fungsi radio web yang pertama seumpamanya di dunia yang membolehkan pengguna mendengar stesen radio yang disukai dari mana-mana tempat pun di dunia, capaian berita RSS dan banyak lagi.Turut termasuk dalam pakej MINI Connected ini ialah sistem pembesar suara Harmon Kardon HiFi (480W/ 10 pembesar suara) dan Radio MINI Visual Boost dengan paparan LCD warna 6.5 inci resolusi tinggi. Pakej MINI Connected dijual  pada harga RM 14, 988.
Harga pasaran (atas jalan bagi pendaftaran persendirian, tanpa insurans, dengan pakej servis MINI Tender Loving Care) bagi MINI Cooper Countryman dan MINI Cooper S Countryman serba baru adalah seperti berikut: –
MINI Cooper Countryman                   –           RM 248, 888
MINI Cooper S            Countryman                –           RM 285, 888
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Mini首次在马来西亚推介全新的Mini四门车，并拥有五人座设计及四轮驱动系统(4WD)
吉隆坡，20011年3月24日 – 马来西亚宝马集团今天推介全新的MINI Countryman，使到马来西亚Mini汽车款式系列变得更完整。作为Mini家族第四代改良型号，大众热切期待MINI Countryman将成为Mini系列的独特标志。
MINI Countryman是Mini的第一部四门车。拥有灵活的内部设计，并可以容纳五人。同时也拥有一个大型的尾板。相较于之前的Mini系列，这款型号拥有多达两倍的存储空间。同时，MINI Countryman更有如“成长版”的Mini车系列，但是却保留了Mini特有的标志，给与驾驶者卡丁车的驾驶感觉。你也可以选择拥有四轮驱动车系统的MINI Cooper S Countryman。总的来说，MINI Countryman呈现出了此品牌的独特设计、绝佳的品质及卓越性能。
马来西亚宝马集团总经理，杰弗里布里斯特解释说：“从一开始，Mini这品牌给人的感觉就是充满惊喜和高性能。我们今天推介的MINI Countryman拥有丰富的特征。全新的MINI Countryman呈献出Mini的一切优点，并且把这些优点都放大。这全都与4-4家庭成员有关连、包括4个门、4轮驱动及大于4米的结构。”
布里斯特补充说，MINI仍然是马来西亚宝马集团不断增长的品牌。“在2010年，马来西亚宝马集团总共售出222辆Mini。比较起去年，增长了3.7巴仙。随着今天推出全新的MINI Countryman，它将让马来西亚Mini继续迈向成功。”
作为世界上首个制造标志性汽车的公司，宝马集团在2001年推出Mini时就有了全新的突破。MINI的结构结合了先进汽车和地盘技术战略、永不妥协的卡丁车素质及独特的风格，让MINI在全球车市建立了特殊地位。
“MINI Countryman呈献出该品牌的演变，缩小了经典MINI及未来潜力的距离。虽然它有较大的面积，增加离地间隙和四门式，MINI Countryman绝对无误，因为它依然是MINI。”马来西亚宝马集团Mini经理，苏莱曼.法里德说道。
MINI Countryman将在3月24日登陆马来西亚市场。MINI Countryman拥有两款不同的1.6毫升引擎车款，分别是MINI Countryman和Mini Cooper S Countryman。
最初的Mini推介与2010年中。1.6升的四缸单位拥有许多功能，并让它的性能和燃油效率成为最佳组合。MINI Cooper Countryman拥有90kW/122马力的动力系统，使车子可以在11.6秒内从0时速加速到每小时100公里的时速，并且每100公里只消耗7.6升燃油及每公里排放177克的二氧化碳。MINI Coope S Countryman有额外的双卷轴涡轮增压器和直喷技术以启动1.6升的四缸单位。它135kW/184的马力，让车子从0时速加速到每小时100公里的时速只需要8.3秒，这乃是迄今为止在输出和油耗之间最平衡的产品。
MINI最著名就是牵引主导敏捷处理。这种能力的基础是先进的新型悬浮技术，其中包括与麦花臣支柱和弹簧跟踪控制臂、多连杆后悬架、EPS前轴机电动力转向系统。MINI Countryman含有动态稳定控制地同 (DSC) 。而动态牵引力控制系统只设于MINI Cooper S Countryman，同时也包括前桥差速器的电子锁功能。
MINI Cooper S Countryman的四轮驱动车功能让驾驶着更享受驾驶乐趣，就如您一直都对这品牌期望所得到的驾驶经验。永久的全轮驱动系统可以快速并准确的更换一个全新及牵引主导敏捷处理。在此，一个电磁中央差速器定位可以为前轴和后轴分配无缝力量。在普通的驾驶情况下，超过50巴仙的驱动力将着重于后轮。当处于极端情况下，100巴仙的驱动力将着重于后轮。
从外而观，Mini Countryman备有经典Mini的功能，如车顶线、六角形散热器格栅、引擎盖的大灯、内则指示灯、宽敞的轮拱和垂直尾灯。以MINI设计语言为出发点，MINI Countryman展示了它个性化的设计语言。大型玻璃表面和车顶曲线更改变了MINI Countryman视觉上的感受，包括更宽敞的内部空间和四门设计。
特宽的车子底部和充满动力的轮拱是稳固了整部车子及全轮型驱动能力。在轮子方面，Mini Cooper Countryman有17英寸的轻质铝合金轮圈。而MINI Cooper S Countryman则有18英寸的双轻质铝合金轮圈，并且拥有无烟煤和涡轮风扇设计。
MINI Countryman具有足够的空间。五人座的宽敞空间让您有足够的伸展空间，以确保驾驶者和乘客皆可以有个舒服的长途之旅。后排座椅更可以按60:40前后移动，后座靠背则可以按40:20:40折叠。这样就可以极大程度地增强了存储空间，从350升提升至1,170升。
MINI Countryman内部也是一个全新设计和较实用性。略微提高的座椅位置可以方便进出，优化了司机对于路面的视线和加强了新车型的强大特征。中间的仪表板和通风孔皆有镀铬边，同时也有Mini特别的中心操作装置。除此以外，在前座位置中间也设有一个多功能箱，特别为你而设了一个特别的存储空间。
车身的颜色也拥有更多的选择，包括纯红色、鲜黄色、海蓝色、淡咖啡色、浅白色、精粹黑、宝蓝色、牛津绿、水晶银、品灰色和星空蓝。车子内部的垫衬料是碳黑色时闲真皮，可选择纯红色颜色条或深烟草色颜色条，加上黑色的线条，让内部的颜色组合更加协调。自动空调和CD播放系统更是标准的配备，而MINI Countryman也设有选择性装饰配套，包括玻璃车顶配套和Mini连接配套。
玻璃车顶配套包括一键式操作和无线电遥控。整个配套的零售价为RM9,988。
另一方面，Mini联系配套包括各种额外科技功能，它开启了全球性特有的车内娱乐享受。利用特有功能整合通讯、娱乐和采用iPhone上网功能。你只需要采用Mini联系配套提供的USB插座或连接单元适配器。
MINI 联系配套功能包括全球第一个网络电台功能，让用户选择位于世界各地的电台、用户自定RSS新闻及更多。这个配套也包括哈蒙顿高保真扬声器系统(480W/ 10扬声器) 及Mini视觉助力包括6.5英寸的高清彩色液晶显示屏。MINI 联系配套零售价为RM14,988。
MINI Cooper Countryman和MINI Cooper S Countryman的零售价 (上路价，不包括保险，包含Mini亲切爱心服务配套)如下：
MINI Cooper Countryman                   –           RM 248, 888
MINI Cooper S Countryman                –           RM 285, 888
More info here – http://www.mini.my/

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Volkswagen Jetta (CKD 2014) Launch

[Automobiles]

Headed over to the newly opened Damansara Performing Arts Centre in Damansara Perdana, Kuala Lumpur on 28 April 2014 for the launch of Volkswagen Group Malaysia and DRB-HICOM Berhad’s fourth and latest (CKD) Malaysian-assembled model, the Volkswagen Jetta .
The (CBU) Jetta has been one of the most popular Volkswagen models since its introduction in Malaysia in 2011 and with the launch of the new CKD Jetta, Volkswagen expects to capture even greater share of the Malaysian automobile market.
“The Jetta offers an aspirational and inspirational drive that marries sportiness, elegance and safety without compromising on Volkswagen’s commitment to sustainability with its fuel efficient consumption levels. The local assembly of the Jetta is the latest indication of our commitment to offer more affordable vehicle choices for Malaysians seeking the quality and reassurance that comes with a German engineered vehicle,” said Christoph Aringer, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia.
Delving further on the importance of the locally assembled Jetta to Volkswagen Group Malaysia, Mr Aringer also adds, “The fully imported Jetta introduced in 2011 was a significant contributor to Volkswagen’s success in Malaysia thus far. We are extremely confident that sales of the Jetta will surge forward now that the car is being locally assembled and even more competitively priced than ever before.”

Volkswagen is gaining market share globally and in Malaysia

Simon Loasby, Director of Design, Volkswagen Group China shared the design principle adopted by the Volkswagen design team, “The Jetta possesses a design that is perfectly poised between sporty and elegant supported by a unique, thought-through and consistent sedan interior and exterior design language. While its stylish and distinctive design is attractive whilst being understated, the Jetta also promises the pleasure of driving and at the same time provides an assurance of security and environmental friendliness”.
Simon then led us through the evolution of the Golf (which shares the same DNA as the Jetta) showing us the changes from the very first generation all the way up to the current generation.

Simon explaining the Golden Ratio which is integral to any successful design
We were then treated to a live sketch of the design of the car
The launch gambit featured a little musical performance which was quite entertaining

Exterior
The Jetta holds true to the Volkswagen design DNA, featuring dynamic design lines that gives the car its sporty yet classy design. Fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille and twin exhaust tailpipes, the car is further kitted with front and rear fog lights, in case of fog. Its halogen headlights comes with automatic headlight activation with ‘Leaving Home’ and manual ‘Coming Home’ functions and exterior mirror with environment lighting to assist drivers in dark area. The sedan is also equipped with Park Distance Control (PDC) for front and rear, and electrically adjustable exterior mirror for driver convenience especially during parking.

Engine and Performance
The Jetta combines a 1.4l twin-charged direct petrol injection TSI engine (same as the Golf TSI) with a 7-speed direct shift gearbox (the only car in its class with a 7-speed gearbox) that gives an impressive output of 160PS and a torque of 240Nm between 1,500 to 4,500rpm. I’ve actually test driven the Golf TSI before and it offers very generous amounts of torque. Of course the Jetta is slightly heavier but I expect the performance to be almost similar. Will confirm this fact once I’ve had the chance to test drive this new Jetta.
Volkswagen claims that the Jetta is able to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 8.3 seconds and capable of reaching a top speed of 221kphT. he Jetta features a combined fuel consumption of approximately 6.0l/100 km (16.7 km per litre) on a Euro 5 emission standard, making it pretty fuel efficient.

Enhanced Entertainment Features
The Jetta’s entertainment features the new RCD320 radio with multiple connectivity options such as Bluetooth, SD-card slot, USB with iPod interface and AUX-In. This multi-function display comes with multi-language support and its audio system is further supplemented with 6 quality speakers.

Safety Features
The Jetta is equipped with dual front airbags with front passenger airbag deactivation, dual front side airbags and curtain airbags for front and rear passengers; Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Brake Assist (BA) as well as hill-hold control and rain sensor is installed in the Jetta. The Jetta also features safety-optimized front head restraints and child seat anchorage points (ISOFIX system).

Interior
The interior features such as a multi-function leather steering wheel complemented with leather gearshift knob and handbrake lever, as well as ‘Black Pyramids’ decorative inserts for dashboard and door trim panel. The Jetta also includes auto-dimming rear view mirror, cruise control, auto power windows for all four doors, glove compartment with cooling functions and 510 litres of trunk space.
The Jetta’s seats are furnished with ‘Sienna’ fabric seat upholstery, and the front seats are height adjustable, while the rear comes with 60/40 foldable seats. Other features include adjustable front armrest and rear armrest as well as a ‘Climatronic’ automatic air conditioning system with 2-zone temperature control and rear air-con vents.

The Jetta is available in four colour choices: Candy White, Platinum Grey, Reflex Silver and Deep Black.
The (CKD) Malaysian-assembled Jetta is available for booking at all Volkswagen dealerships in Peninsular Malaysia from 2 May 2014 priced at  RM130,888.00
For more information, head over to www.volkswagen.com.my

Photos taken with the Sony RX1. More info on the RX1 and other Sony cameras at http://bit.ly/1eLboU1

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Automotive News – July 2022

[Automotive News]
BMW Malaysia Presents Limited Special Editions of the BMW 3 Series

BMW Malaysia announced Limited Editions of the New BMW 320i M Sport Edition and the New BMW 330i M Sport Edition, both locally assembled and outfitted with extra features to improve the premium driving experience of the best-selling sports sedan in the premium segment of the Malaysian automotive market.
The M Sport Package and new 18-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-Spoke Style 790 M will be offered with the New Limited BMW 320i M Sport Edition to further the car’s sports appeal. Interior-wise, the new model will also have Individual Roof-Lining Anthracite, Variable Sports Steering, and M leather steering wheel.
The New Limited BMW 330i M Sport Edition, on the other hand, will have an electrified glass roof feature and a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System for the best driving experience possible. The new 19-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-Spoke Style 791 M further enhance the sporting look of the BMW 330i M Sport.
Both Limited Edition models come in Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Mineral Grey, and M Portimao Blue as exterior colour options. Interior upholstery is only available in Black Leather Vernasca.

Photo credits: BMW Malaysia
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Sneak Peak – New DSLM & Micro 4/3 System Cameras to Launch Tomorrow!

[Preview]
A new Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) camera will be unveiled tomorrow morning. This camera produces great picture quality with it’s 16.05 megapixel sensor, upgraded engine and low light auto focus. At the same launch a new micro 4/3 mirrorless system camera will also be revealed.
In the DSLM cam, the image quality is improved from previous models by having a new noise reduction that dramatically suppresses low-frequency noise without compromising on image clarity.
It also has incredible low light auto-focus without us utilising the AF assist lamp (yes we tried and were mightily impressed), shoots up to 60p full HD video, and has WiFi and NFC connectivity!
Now this is a killer cool feature…you can remotely shoot using your smartphone which is connected to the camera.
OK I’m not going to give away any more details. You’ll just have to wait for my post on the official launch.
To keep it’s identity a secret I had to tape up all the branding on the DSLM cam but don’t fret, all will be revealed tomorrow. In fact I’ll even share some “live” updates on my Facebook so do follow me at https://www.facebook.com/timchewkc
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Psst! I left a little clue in one of the photos…see if you’re observant enough!
I will add some photos taken with the camera after I get back from the Kirin beer and food pairing later tonight.
Update – As promised. Here are some photos from the beer and food pairing.
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The beer and food pairing was held in Daikanyama which had rather dim lighting but even though we were using the kit lens with a max aperture of F3.5 the photos still turned out bright and crisp and with no noticeable noise despite us shooting at high ISO.
I’m quite impressed with the performance of the camera.
Stay tuned to my blog for more updates! Will be posting on the official launch soon.
Photo credits: Food pairing by Andy Kho, photos of the camera are author’s own
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