TOPSHOP/ TOPMAN Spring Summer 2012 Fashion Show 290312

[Event]
Headed over to Zebra Square off the Kampung Pandan Roundabout for the TOPSHOP/ TOPMAN Spring Summer 2012 Fashion Show with the girls from Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers on 29 March 2012.
The jam in KL as usual was horrendous and I had to pick up Samantha from KLCC which incidentally was closed for 2 hours due to a fire in the food court just as Sam got there which resulted in a massive jam ringing KLCC but fortunately we managed to make in on time.
Good thing too as we managed to grab some Smirnoff cocktails, Heineken beer, delicious caramel popcorn and some canapes before the show started.
The obligatory photo at the photowall
Yes it was still bright when we arrived!
More MHB girls arrived. Another 10 members still caught in the jam.
The hall was super packed with guests!
Jayme from MHD provided lots of Smirnoff for the event!
MHB's Povy (right) with a friend
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More info on TOPSHOP at http://www.facebook.com/topshopmalaysia
Then it was off to Zouk Club KL for their 8th Anniversary Party. Yes it’s my 8th year partying at Zouk! Quite amazing…
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An occasion to celebrate like this definitely calls for some Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve!!!
Evonne and Jenni Foh with their friend
Velvet was packed!
Also spotted Cindy with a friend

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Happy Birthday Zouk Club KL!
More photos on the Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers Facebook page – http://www.facebook.com/myhotbloggers

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MIGF 2015 Review – Maison Francaise

[MIGF Special Feature]

My final Malaysia International Gourmet Festival (MIGF) 2015 review was at Maison Francaise in Kuala Lumpur, and accompanying me for this review was Nicole Fu. As we went on a Sunday afternoon, there was ample parking along the roadside.
I’m no stranger to this French restaurant as I have previously visited Maison Francaise a couple of times for events over the past few years including the House of Haagen Daz party (read more at https://timchew.net/2013/07/16/house-of-haagen-daz-party/) as well as the Polignac Cognac Extra Grande Champagne  event (read more at https://timchew.net/2013/09/15/polignac-cognac-extra-grande-champagne-launch-290813/) and the Remy Martin – Heart of Cognac Experience (read more at https://timchew.net/2013/10/26/remy-martin-the-heart-of-cognac-experience/).

Maison Francaise has been around for a few years and has won various accolades!

Getting settled at our table, we were served a welcome mocktail which was citrusy and very refreshing. Then it was on to the special MIGF menu that was specially prepared by Chef Thierry Le Baut.

Chef Thierry preparing food in the open kitchen

Amuse Bouche – Chef Delight
Appetiser 1 – Millefeuille De Foie Gras, Anguille Fumee Maison, Pomme Verte, Gratine a la Minute
Foie Gras Balotine, Home-Smoked Eel, Green Apple Millefeuille, Gratinated a la Minute Beetroot Jelly
Foie Gras is what I expect to have at French restaurants and I was happy to see it in the MIGF menu. This wasn’t the typical pan-fried foie gras though but instead was encased in a millefeuille which is a French pastry. The various textures and flavours of this dish made every mouthful very enjoyable indeed and it was definitely an impressing start to the meal.

Appetiser 2 – Jardin De Coquille Saint Jacques, Herbes Fraiches et Fleurs, Ecume De Carotte et Wasabi
Garden Scallops, Herbs, Flowers, Carrot and Wasabi Foam
This was a cute dish! The bed of the “garden” was actually Chinese fried carrot cake – one of Chef Thierry’s East/ West pairings! Chef Thierry had previously travelled to many countries and he loves to learn the recipes of the food he enjoys in each country, then applying his French culinary skills and incorporating it into his menu. The scallops were plump and fresh and went well with the wasabi foam which wasn’t particularly spicy.

Appetiser 3 – Dover Sole Farci, Sauce Au Safron, Gambas Kanaki
Surprise of Dover Sole Roll, Saffron Sauce, Prawn Kanaki
The silky smooth Dover sole, which is a white fish, rolled around a prawn paste went well with the four (4) different sauces, while the prawn kanaki was a prawn wrapped with spaghetti then deep fried giving it a crispy outer layer! A very colourful and pretty dish indeed with lots of flavour imparted by the sauces.

Palate Cleanser – Hibiscus Granite

Main Course – Presentation D’agneau en 3 Cuisson, Sauce Au Basilique, Maron Glaces
Presentation of Lamb in 3 Coccion, Basil Sauce, Glazed Chestnuts
Lamb prepared ways – sous-vide, pan fried and oven roasted, providing three (3) different textures. My favourite has to be the sous-vide lamb as it was so tender, chewing was hardly required. The flavours of the lamb were so delicious that it didn’t really need the basil sauce. In fact, I enjoyed the unmasked flavours of the lamb on its own and had the creamy mashed potatoes with the sauce instead. The glazed chestnut was an interesting addition to the dish.

Dessert – Mousse Deivara, Coeur De Framboise, Gelede Chrysantheme, Sphere de Mojito, Sorbet Framboise
Jivara Mousse, Raspberry Heart, Chrysanthemum Jelly, Mojito Sphere and Raspberry Sorbet
The rich and incredibly sinful Jivara chocolate mousse with a raspberry core was a delight to partake of while the piquant raspberry sorbet balanced out the flavours preventing my palate from being overwhelmed by the richness. The Mojito Sphere burst in the mouth filling my mouth with refreshing “mojito” flavours. The chrysanthemum jelly was chef’s little East/ West balance in this dish and provided the variance in texture.

Full Festival Menu price: RM380.00++ per person

Nicole and me with Chef Thierry Le Baut

Brittany-born Chef Thierry Le Baut has over 30 years of experience in the culinary field and has travelled all over the world before being based in Malaysia for the past two (2) years. He believes in learning recipes from the lands he visits and incorporating it into his menus if he can.
Don’t let his jovial and mild demeanour fool you as Chef Thierry is a martial arts exponent (so don’t try to run off from Maison Francaise without paying the bill)! He applies the calmness he learned from martial arts when he leads his culinary team and speaks in an even tone to his kitchen staff to ensure that the situation remains calm no matter how busy the restaurant is. Chef Thierry is also a photography enthusiast and swims regularly to keep in shape.
After the delicious meal, Chef Thierry was kind enough to give us a tour of the restaurant.

The dining room is lit by the sunlight during the day but Chef Thierry told us that the ambience is very romantic at night hence it is a popular choice for couples
The view from the reverse angle
The temperate-controlled wine cellar houses over 150 premium wines from France, some of which are pretty rare!
The bar which is right beside the entrance
As the restaurant is a converted bungalow, it has three storeys and a little swimming pool on the lower ground level which also caters for al fresco dining and can fit up to 200 pax during events
The view of the lower ground level shot from the ground level
There is also a private room upstairs which has dining tables as well as a cigar lounge
The dining tables on the first floor

Maison Francaise is located at:
5, Jalan Changkat Kia Peng
50450 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia.

Telephone: 03 21441474
Mobile: 019 2431200
Email: info@maisonfrancaise.com.my
Website: http://www.maisonfrancaise.com.my/

OPENING HOURS
Monday – Friday: 12.00pm – 3.00pm for lunch, 6.00pm – 11.00pm for dinner
Saturday
12.00pm – 3.00pm for lunch
2.00pm – 5.00pm for afternoon tea
6.00pm – 11.00pm for dinner

Sunday
11:30am – 3:30pm for Sunday brunch
6.00pm – 11.00pm for dinner
*Lunch will not be served on Sunday.

Photos shot with the Leica C. More info at https://timchew.net/2013/11/19/leica-c-launch-with-malaysias-hottest-bloggers/

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Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) Launches the New Ford Ranger (2018) XL, XLT, XLT+ Wildtrak, and Ranger Raptor

[Automotive News]

Headed over to the Setia City Convention Centre in Shah Alam on 25 October 2018 for the launch of the new Ford Ranger by the Ford Motor Company, together with its local distribution partner, Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC). The new pick-up is billed to be an even more capable vehicle with a freshened lineup that combines class-leading technology, safety and convenience features.
The new ‘Built Ford Tough’ Ranger lineup in Malaysia consists of nine (9) different variants, including the XL, XLT, new XLT+ Wildtrak, and we even got a special preview of the Ranger Raptor – which will be officially launched at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018 this November.
“With the new advanced features and the new generation powertrain offering even greater capability, the new Ranger will build on its already strong and widening appeal in the market,” said Truong Kim Phong, managing director, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets, Ford Motor Company. “The new Ranger will help continue to revolutionise the pickup truck segment, and we are proud that so many customers are choosing Ford.”
“We know that Malaysian customers want their pickups to have the toughness of a truck as well as the comfort and advanced features of a passenger vehicle. We are confident that the new Ranger lineup will offer customers unmatched versatility, helping them achieve more, whether at work or with their family,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Bin Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.

The new Ford Ranger offers a choice of three (3) diesel powertrains which include the new generation 2.0L Single-Turbo and 2.0L Bi-Turbo engines, and the Ranger’s proven Duratorq 2.2L. Ford’s new generation of diesel engines uses advanced materials with sophisticated construction, making them compact, lightweight, powerful and efficient, featuring common-rail direct fuel-injection, an integrated intake manifold, and a belt-in-oil primary drive.
Available exclusively on the Wildtrak 4×4 is the new-generation 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engine, coupled with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission to bring greater torque, improved flexibility and a quieter, more comfortable drive.
The 2.0L Bi-Turbo takes advantage of sequential turbocharging to deliver greater responsiveness, drivability and maximum efficiency. A pair of turbochargers are employed for maximum performance and efficiency. A variable geometry turbocharger is employed to deliver greater throttle response and eliminate lag by spooling up quickly at low speeds. The second unit is a fixed geometry turbocharger with a high flow capacity to deliver maximum power and performance.
With 500Nm from a low 1750rpm, the Bi-Turbo engine delivers a greater torque spread, with the 10-speed’s close ratios reducing gaps in power and acceleration to make steep, slippery hill-climbs much easier. The Wildtrak model optioned with the new engine maintains Ranger’s equal class-leading payload and 3500kg towing capability.

The 2.0L Single-Turbo engine, available on the Wildtrak 4×2 and new Ranger XLT+ variants, is also mated to Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission to deliver 180PS and 420Nm of torque
The XL and XLT variants are equipped with Ranger’s proven 2.2L turbodiesel engine, which offers 160PS/385Nm and comes with a six-speed automatic and manual transmission.
Surprisingly, Ford’s Pre-Collision Assist feature (which is a premium feature normally found in the latest range of luxury cars or flagship models) using Inter-Urban Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection is available on the new Ranger. The system is designed to detect pedestrians as well as vehicles to bring the Ranger to a complete stop to help mitigate potential rear-end collisions and road-traffic collisions with pedestrians. The system functions at speeds above 3.6km/h.
The First and only in-class Lane Departure Warning & Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Collision Warning will carry over to the new Ranger. Ford’s segment-first Semi-Automatic Parrallel Parking (SAPP) is available on the Wildtrak 4×4. The driver need only to apply the gear changes and brakes, and the system will automatically steer the Ranger into the parking space.
Loading is easier than ever on the Wildtrak and XLT+ models with the introduction of the first and only in-class, Easy Lift Tailgate. With a new internal mechanism, the Ranger’s tailgate is now lighter to lift, with a 70 percent reduction in initial force required to raise it for closing. Not only does this system require less effort to lift, it also means that it’s easier to lower.

 Catch the Ford Ranger Raptor at the Kuala Lumpur International Motorshow 2018
 Front of the new Ford Ranger Raptor

The Ranger has added the light and nimble Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) to the entry-level XL variant – making it the first-in-segment to offer this feature as standard across all models – and providing even more capability to these workhorse trucks that tackle the daily demands of construction sites and agricultural fields across the country.
The new Ranger’s exterior features a cleaner new grille, which features the distinctive ‘nostrils’, the more distinctively chiselled lower bumper now offers a broader intake for a more balanced look. Ranger Wildtrak and XLT+ come with LED daytime running lights and HID headlights for better visibility. The Wildtrak variants will also come fitted with LED front fog lamps.
“A successful design should communicate its intent at-a-glance,” said Ford Asia-Pacific Director of Design, Todd Willing. “With Ranger’s reputation as an amazingly capable and versatile vehicle, it is our responsibility to create a design that clearly signals those attributes in combination with a handsome and appealing aesthetic.”
There is also clearer distinction between models visually, with bumper treatments and colours reflecting the unique character of each model – be it the Ranger XL or the Wildtrak. Chrome brightwork on the Ranger XLT and Monument accents on the Ranger Wildtrak reflect each model’s unique position in the line-up. Exclusive to Wildtrak is the new ‘Saber’ hero colour, a rich orange with blonde accents which contrasts strongly with the dark grey grille surrounds. The Wildtrak’s sports-bar and two-tone 18-inch alloy wheels further differentiate it from the pack.
Convenience wise, the Ranger is now equipped with keyless entry and push-start button on the XLT+ and Wildtrak. Its black themed interior also hosts an array of upgrades while the durable, tactile surface finishes ensuring a long lifespan. Contrasting detail elements including shadow chrome and silver accent stitching help give its interior a premium feel.

SYNC® 3 on the Ranger XLT+ and Wildtrak is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and includes Bluetooth and an 8.0-inch full colour touchscreen. The Wildtrak is also equipped with in-built satellite navigation system for when the Ranger is beyond mobile coverage areas.
The new Ranger’s suspension had been upgraded for improved control roll, to enhance the driving experience when fully-laden and when towing. The new packaging also enables geometry changes for an improved ride, a reduction in body roll as well as improved steering precision. The suspension changes do not impact on Ranger’s equal class-leading towing and payload capabilities.
“We’ve further improved how Ranger behaves when carrying a load, towing a boat or when taking a caravan around the country,” said John Willems, Chief Program Engineer, Ranger. “The Ranger is now better to drive when it’s working at its hardest. It is easier to handle, so you can really make the most of its payload and towing capabilities. It helps reduce fatigue on long trips, too.”
The following variants of the new Ranger are available at the following prices:
Wildtrak –  two variants, from RM134,888.00
XLT+ –  one variant, from RM124,888.00
XLT –  two variants, from RM109,888.00
XL – three variants, from RM90,888.00
The Ranger is available in eight (8) colours, including the three new; Saber (Wildtrak only), Magnetic and Lightning Blue colours, as well as Cool White, Meteor Grey, Aluminium Metallic, Frozen White and Absolute Black.
As an early bird offer,the first 888 customers who register their new Ford Ranger will each receive an electrical goods voucher worth RM1,000. The early bird offer ends either when the 888th registration is reached or at 31 December 2018, whichever comes first. On top of that, Sime Darby Auto Connexion will be offering new Ranger customers up to 2 years free maintenance or up to 40,000km for customers who successfully register before 31 January 2019, whichever comes first.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

For details, visit: https://www.sdacford.com.my/
Photo credits: Sime Darby Auto Connexion and author’s own

 With Calvin Foong from SDAC and brand ambassadors
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NESCAFE Gold Blend Barista Machine

[ADV]

I love coffee! I drink at least one a day, sometimes more when I have multiple meetings with clients which are at cafes. However drinking coffee outside can be expensive so my morning cuppa is usually one that I make at home. I first started with powdered instant coffee, flirted with 3-in-1 coffees before I decided they were too sweet, progressed to 2-in-1 coffees, before settling on freeze-dried coffee. I did try drip dry coffees however I found it too tedious and hated the cleaning up after.
Hence freeze-dried coffee is was for many years as its flavours, smells and nutritional content generally remain unchanged. Mass production of instant coffee began in post-WWII America, where freeze-drying grew in popularity, becoming more common although it is more expensive, as it produces a higher-quality product.
Nescafe Gold Blend is one such freeze-dried coffee that’s very prominent in the Malaysian market. It is a rich premium roast crafted with premium-roasted Arabica and Robusta coffee beans that imparts a smooth and rounded taste. To get the most out of the blend, Nescafe has launched their new NESCAFÉ® Gold Blend Barista which is designed to bring out the best flavours, aromas and textures of the coffee.
So the nice folks at Nescafe sent me a machine knowing that I love coffee and I spent some time trying it out as well.

Setting up the machine was really easy – just wash a couple of the parts, dry it properly, assemble it, fill up the water in the tank and turn it on for the first time. The machine will prompt you to rinse it which will take a minute or two. Then after it’s done, fill up the coffee container with Nescafe Gold Blend, and you’re good to go!

I started off making two different types of coffee – espresso (on the left) and a cappuccino.

 Lungo
 Americano
Notice the beautiful crema on top of the espresso, lungo and Americano? That can only be achieved using the machine! The amount of water for each of the black coffees can be adjusted depending on how thick/ or diluted you want it to be (up to a min/ max amount of course).

 For the cappuccino and latte it was a slightly different process. One extra step which is to put in some milk before setting the cup underneath the machine and selecting cappuccino/ latte. A little cup measure with different measurements marked for both cappuccino and latte comes along with the kit.

 Cappuccino with more milk foam
 Latte with slightly more milk but less foam
 For the more hardcore coffee drinkers like me, you might want to add in an extra shot of espresso into your latte or cappuccino for that extra kick!
Once you’ve “mastered the basics, you can experiment with your own recipes.
 Instead of fresh milk, why not try using condensed milk? Don’t be afraid to try!
Affogato

So after using the Nescafe Gold Blend Barista for over two (2) weeks, I must say that every morning I really look forward to my morning coffee. Trying out new recipes or just enjoying the five (5) preset ones. I’ve also saved some money by not spending so much on coffee at cafes. Granted that this cannot totally replace a cup of coffee made by a cafe, but heck in today’s busy and fast-paced lifestyle, having the ability to make a really decent cup of coffee at home in the morning in a minute is a real affordable luxury!
The new Nescafe Gold Blend Barista makes a great gift for Christmas or for a coffee lover’s birthday and there’s currently a special offer whereby you need only pay RM239.00 for the machine with one (1) Nescafe Gold Blend 200g jar and one (1) refill pack.
You can purchase the machine or get more info at http://www.nestleapps.com.my/nestleapps_com_my/Nescafe_Gold_Barista/

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Red Bull Sebastien Buemi Visits Infiniti Centre KL 220312

[Automotive News]
Sébastien Buemi, the official Red Bull Racing Formula One Team test and reserve driver met with Infiniti guests in an exclusive “Meet & Greet” session held at the Infiniti Center Kuala Lumpur on 22 March 2012.
2012 marks the second year of a thriving partnership between Infiniti and Red Bull Racing Formula One (F1) team which sees opportunities of technical collaboration between the two organizations being explored as well as prominent Infiniti brand presence on the F1 cars, drivers and team equipment.
Apart from “racing” Sébastien Buemi on an F1 driving simulator, Infiniti guests and members of the media also got up-close and personal with Buemi during the autograph and photography session, flanked by Infiniti luxury performance vehicles and the Red Bull Racing RB8 Formula One car.
“For 2012, the Infiniti range of luxury performance vehicles will be reinforced by new variants specially catered to the Malaysian luxury car market. The M Sedan range will see the introduction of the world’s first high performance hybrid, the M35H, as well as a competitively priced M25 which sports a 2.5L V6. While the flagship FX crossover was most recently revised with sportier aesthetics to complement its high performance credentials. We are confident that our expanded range will further widen Infiniti’s appeal to luxury car buyers and build on the attentive hospitality that Infiniti has been renowned for.” said Christopher Tan, General Manager of Inspired Motor.

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About Sebastian Buemi
With three seasons as a grand prix driver behind him at Scuderia Toro Rosso, Sébastien Buemi brings a wealth of Formula One experience to Red Bull Racing, where he takes on the role of Test and Reserve Driver.
After a successful spell in karting in his native Switzerland, the team’s second Séb made the transfer to single-seaters in 2004 in Formula BMW where he finished third in the series behind that other Seb, the all-conquering Vettel.
Moving through Formula 3 Euroseries and A1 GP, Sébastien arrived in GP2 with the Arden Team in 2007 and finished seventh on his first outing in Monaco. The following year he was runner-up in the GP2 Asia series and finished sixth overall in the main series, taking wins in the sprint races in France and Hungary along the way.
He finally got his shot at Formula One when he was confirmed as a race driver at Scuderia Toro Rosso for the 2009 season. On 29 March that year, in Australia, he became the first Swiss driver since Jean-Denis Délétraz drove for Pacific at the 1995 European Grand Prix and the 25th Swiss racer to contest a grand prix.
To top that, Buemi finished in the points on his debut, finishing eighth to take a point under the scoring rules in force at the time. He was later promoted to seventh when Lewis Hamilton was excluded from the final result.
Since then Sébastien has racked up many thousands of kilometers in F1 machinery and during his three competitive Formula One season bagged a further 27 championship points from 55 starts.
Having established a good working relationship with Red Bull Racing in his time as the team’s Reserve driver in 2008, Séb now returns to the role as a seasoned pro and with in-season testing back again this year his experience will undoubtedly prove invaluable.*
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Infiniti is a lesser known brand in Malaysia but they do come up with some stylish luxury cars. Here are some pics of the Infiniti FX.
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Here’s a little info on Infiniti
Infiniti, the luxury automotive brand from Japan, reflects its brand promise of “Inspired Performance” with a model lineup of sedans, coupes, SUVs, and crossovers featuring exhilarating performance, emotive design and cutting edge technology. Infiniti continues to launch across the globe through a dedicated network of Infiniti Centers that share a commitment to exceptional hospitality throughout the entire period of ownership.
On February 28, 2011, Infiniti announced a marketing agreement with Formula One World Champion, Red Bull Racing, covering the 2011 and 2012 F1 seasons. Leveraging the cooperative power of the Alliance, a unique triumvirate has been created with Red Bull Racing, focused on high profile marketing and technical activities around F1.
More info at www.infiniti.com.my
And here’s a little eye-candy for you.

*Info from the Red Bull Racing website.

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Food Hunt – September 2014

[Food & Beverage]
 Sony a5100
As some of you may have noticed if you follow me on Instagram @timchew1311 and on my Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/timchewkc), over the past month I’ve been field-testing the newly launched Sony a5100.
Earlier this year I did a review of the Sony a5000 and you can read my posts here:
https://timchew.net/2014/05/12/sony-alpha-5000-bloggers-preview-2/
https://timchew.net/2014/05/23/sony-alpha-5000-user-review/
The new Sony a5100 is the NEX 5T’s replacement model and fills the gap between the Sony a5000 which caters for more casual users, and the Sony a6000 which is powerful enough to satisfy more advanced photography enthusiasts.
Now I strongly believe in doing field-tests to try out a camera’s capabilities and not solely rely on the product specs, so I decided to bring the highly portable Sony Alpha 5100 around with me during some non-work related activities over the past week.
First up was breakfast with my partner in crime at Artisan Roast Coffee in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail.
 Artisan Roast’s twist on French Toast
 Smoked Salmon and Eggs with Toast
Operating Hours:
Mon – Fri:  08:00 – 00:00
Sat & Sun:  09:00 – 00:00
Holidays:  09:00 – 00:00

Address:
4, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14,
Taman Tun Dr. Ismail,
60000 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia.

Website: http://www.artisanroast.com.my/
Telephone: +60377336397

Next up was coffee and ice cream with Mei Sze at the newly opened Inside Scoop in Damansara Jaya. I really love their homemade durian and cempedak ice creams!

 Waffles and hazelnut ice cream! A delicious combo!
 They serve a decent cup of coffee which is important for coffee lovers like me
 Mei Sze was quite impressed with the mural on the wall depicting an olden days ice cream seller
 As the ice cream is made in small quantities to ensure freshness, you might find some of the popular flavours running out every now and then. But fret not as there are quite a number to choose from.
 Inside Scoop Damansara Jaya occupies a whole shoplot thus is more spacious than the one in Bangsar Baru. Also as they have more space, they could give it a more chilled setting with swings, and bean bags for you to lie on while enjoying your ice cream. Do expect it to be quite full especially on weekend afternoons though.
Operating Hours:
Mon – Thu: 12:30 – 23:00
 Fri – Sat: 12:30 – 00:00
 Sun: 12:30 – 23:00
Closed on Wednesdays.

Address:
57, Jalan SS22/19,
Damansara Jaya,
47400 Petaling Jaya,
Selangor,
Malaysia.

Tel: 03-77314735
Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/insidescoopkl/

You can also read about my visit to Inside Scoop in Bangsar Baru here – https://timchew.net/2014/06/30/food-review-the-inside-scoop-bangsar-baru/

Then it was over to The Point in Damansara Heights for my partner in crime’s belated birthday dinner.
 Beautiful and delicious medium rare Black Angus! This has to be my favourite dish at The Point!
 Pan fried barramundi
Operating hours:
Brunch: Wednesday – Saturday 11:30am – 2:00 pm
Evenings: Monday – Saturday 5:00pm – 1:00am

Address:
No. 122, Jalan Kasah,
Damansara Heights,
50490 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia.

Website: http://www.thepoint.com.my/
Email: enquiry@thepointkl.com
Telephone +603-20118008

You can also read my post about The Point’s media preview here – https://timchew.net/2014/07/07/media-preview-of-the-point-damansara-heights/

I don’t want to say too much about the camera as I prefer to let the photos speak for themselves. One thing I really liked was the hybrid auto-focus system which comes from the Sony a6000 which is really fast and accurate!
I believe most casual users can create some pretty good images with this new camera. But put it in the hands of a pro and this camera shows you what it can really do. Here’s what MHB’s official photographer Andy Kho (www.andykho.com) shot with the Sony a5100 at the media launch in Bangsar recently – http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.750427075003762.1073741959.123911204322022&type=3
More info on the Sony Alpha 5100 at http://www.sony.com.my/product/ilce-5100l
 My distant cousin (yes I was born in the year of the monkey) came to visit and I grabbed the Sony a5100 and shot this pic. The cam started up in 1.5 seconds and I managed to snap this before before this naughty fella ran off. Nice background defocus even though I was only using the kit lens.

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BMW Malaysia Premieres the First-Ever BMW XM

Andy Kho and I recently headed over to the Sentul Depot for BMW Malaysia’s debut of the First-Ever BMW XM, the first BMW M GmbH high-performance SAV with electrified drive, ahead of its introduction in the Malaysian market.
The First-Ever BMW XM, which is set to arrive in Malaysia in June 2023, combines the seamless BMW M HYBRID drive system with model-specific M suspension technology to deliver an outstanding, dynamic driving experience. The first-ever BMW XM began series production in December 2022 at the BMW Group Spartanburg plant in the United States.

“We are beyond thrilled to introduce the First-Ever BMW XM to Malaysia. This exclusive Sports Activity Vehicle is the first-ever BMW M GmbH high-performing car to feature an M HYBRID drive system, thus extending the realm of e-mobility within the high-performance car segment in Malaysia. It is an electrifying reinvention of automotive ideals and the extreme performance characteristics will make every drive a luxurious experience for our Malaysian customers and supporters.”
Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia

The First-Ever BMW XM heralds the start of a new era: for the first time since the renowned BMW M1 was introduced in the 1970s, BMW M GmbH is presenting an independently developed production vehicle with extraordinary specifications in every way. The remarkable status of the First-Ever BMW XM is represented in many particular characteristics, with material quality, craftsmanship, and exclusivity underlining its exceptional status.
The First-Ever BMW XM combines the design language of the BMW X vehicles with bold extroversion and uncompromising elegance. This, along with the higher performance of a BMW M model, resulted in an intriguing appearance that defies conventional standards and conventions. The M Aerodynamics Package and M High-Gloss Shadow Line are standard on the First-Ever BMW XM, with Extended Contents available for the Shadow Line profile. Aside from that, adaptive LED headlights with High-beam Assistant are standard.
The First-Ever BMW XM boasts an imposing kidney grille with trademark M horizontal double louvres and lighted kidney grille contours from the front. Two power domes lie above it as components of the expressively carved bonnet. The grilles are flanked by slim, sharply defined headlights that are divided into two independent modules for daytime running lights and low/high beams.

The side profile of the BMW XM is defined by a sloping roofline, which gives it a particularly muscular and imposing aspect. The side windows, with a noticeably tapered rear, provide a dramatic accent that highlights the vehicle’s dynamic appearance. A nightgold trim strip running parallel to the window line enhances the side profile. The 23-inch M Light-Alloy Wheels Star Spoke Style 923 M Bicolour Night Gold Accent (23-inch M Light-Alloy Wheels Star Spoke Style 923 M Bicolour Black Accent for Shadow Line profile) emphasise the vehicle’s bold and dynamic personality, while the charging cap emphasises its status as a plug-in hybrid SAV.
Due in part to its notably flared wheel arches, the rear of the First-Ever BMW XM has been shaped in a way that provides a particularly powerful look. The sleek and strongly defined L-shaped taillights emphasize its width even further. The First-Ever BMW XM, like every other BMW M vehicle, has two twin tailpipes. The electrified BMW M SAV is distinguished by the fact that the hexagonal tailpipes have been arranged vertically for the first time, creating a unique interpretation of a signature M feature while emphasising the exceptional position of the most powerful BMW M model thus far within the BMW M model family.
The First-Ever BMW XM measures 5,110mm in length, 2,005mm in width and 1,755mm in height, while its wheelbase measures 3,105 mm. Luggage capacity for the SAV is measured at 527 litres, which is expandable to 1,820 litres.

The BMW XM”s interior features carbon-fiber interior trim finishers, with a cabin defined by the BMW Curved Display, which consists of an Information Display and a high-resolution touchscreen Control Display. A familiar BMW driver orientation, as well as BMW M-specific displays, ensure that the driver always has complete control over all driving functions and data. The M Leather Steering Wheel, M Seat Belts, and M Multifunctional Seats visually denote the SAV’s M status.
On the door panels and upper sections of the instrument panel, new vintage leather has been used, which has been enhanced further by a special finishing process that brings out the natural characteristics of the Walknappa leather. Active seat ventilation and 4-zone automatic air conditioning control are included for further comfort. There is also a massage feature for the driver and front passenger. Ambient lighting and BMW Iconic Sounds Electric, on the other hand, enhance the ambiance within the cabin, while the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System provides in-car entertainment.
The M Lounge provides a full-width rear seat bench that curves and encloses the passengers towards the back of the cabin. Meanwhile, sophisticated upholstery adds an exclusive lounge feel to the space. Finally, the Alcantara headliner, with its prismatic 3D structure, produces a visual highlight that contributes to a distinct sense of space, showing craftsmanship and comfort in the most remarkable way.

The BMW XM is the first BMW M vehicle to include a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. The combination of an internal combustion engine – which produces 360 kw / 489 hp and a maximum torque of 650 Nm – and an electric motor enhances M performance while enhancing efficiency. The First-Ever BMW XM debuted with M HYBRID technology, which is based on an all-new 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8.
The First-Ever BMW XM’s total powertrain output is rated at a staggering 480 kW / 653 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque, supplied via an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic gearbox. The century sprint only takes 4.3 seconds. The addition of Launch Control ensures maximum acceleration from a standstill. Top speed for the First-Ever BMW XM is limited to 250 km/h (270 km/h with the M Driver’s package, which comes standard), while electric top speed is limited to 140 km/h.
The intelligent M xDrive all-wheel drive system is standard, and it is designed to improve driving dynamics, handling, and traction. In addition to the standard 4WD mode, drivers can select the 4WD Sport mode, which is biassed to the rear and provides excellent agility. When driving on loose surfaces, the 4WD Sand mode is available to improve traction by ensuring variable distribution of drive power between the rear wheels for improved traction and driving stability.

The First-Ever BMW XM comes standard with Adaptive M Suspension Professional, which includes electronically controlled dampers and Active Roll Stabilisation, which reduces lateral body movements. This results in increased agility and enhanced cornering behaviour. Furthermore, Integral Active Steering is a component of the chassis design that ensures greater vehicle stability by turning the rear wheels in tandem with the front wheel at higher speeds. At lower speeds, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction of the front wheels, which improves manoeuvrability.
In addition to the vehicle’s low centre of gravity, innovative control technologies such as the actuator-based wheel slip limiting contribute to the First-Ever BMW XM’s exceptional dynamic handling. The standard M Sport brakes in Black High-Gloss provide maximum deceleration, with 508 mm compound brake discs on the front axle.
Meanwhile, a high-voltage battery deep within the vehicle floor allows for an all-electric range of up to 88 kilometres. The First-Ever BMW XM may be charged at an AC charging station at up to 7.4 kW. A full charge from 0% to 100% takes 4 hours and 15 minutes with a battery capacity of 25.7 kWh (net).
The BMW XM comes with BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which has a 12.3-inch Information Display that works in combination with the 14.9-inch Control Display. Furthermore, the integrated BMW Head-Up Display provides optimal viewing in the driver’s line of sight, adding to the vehicle’s ease of use. Together with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, the M-specific BMW Operating System 8 enables natural-language control of vehicle functions.
Additionally, the First-Ever BMW XM is also equipped with BMW ID, which ensures personalised settings are loaded as soon as the vehicle is unlocked, as well as BMW Gesture Control, which enhances communication with the car by enabling the use of defined gestures to operate certain functions. Other features include the Connected Package Professional I, Intelligent Emergency Call, Teleservices, Connected Drive Services and Smartphone Integration (Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto).
With Comfort Access, the First-Ever BMW XM can also recognise the vehicle’s key from a distance and unlock its doors automatically, offering greater convenience. Alternatively, drivers can also use their smart device (if compatible) as a contactless key with the BMW Digital Key Plus feature, enabling them to automatically unlock their vehicle door when approaching the vehicle.
Equipped as standard is the Driving Assistant Professional, which includes features such as Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, Lane Change Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go, Lane Departure Warning, Front/Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Emergency Stop Assistant and Evasion Assistant. On the other hand, the standard Parking Assistant Plus includes Reversing Assist, Lateral Parking Aid, Active Park Distance Control, and Surround View system. Other safety features include the Attentiveness Assistant, Acoustic Protection for Pedestrians and Active Protection.
Exterior colour offerings for the First-Ever BMW XM include Cape York Green, Carbon Black, Marina Bay Blue, Toronto Red, Mineral White, Black Sapphire and Dravit Grey. IFor the interior upholstery, available offerings include Leather Merino Deep Lagoon with exclusive contents, Leather Merino Silverstone with exclusive contents, Leather Merino Black and Leather Merino Sakhir Orange.
The retail pricing (on the road, without insurance) for the First-Ever BMW XM with Extended 5-Year Warranty & Service Package is RM 1,398,800.00
For more info, head over to https://www.bmw.com.my/en/all-models/m-series/xm/2022/bmw-xm-overview.html.

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Photos courtesy of BMW Malaysia

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Sony BRAVIA (2016) Launch

[Tech & Gadgets]

Andy Kho and I headed over to the Sony BRAVIA (2016) launch at the Sunway Putra Hotel on 14 April 2016. Sony’s new 4K HDR television series is designed to deliver a greater brightness range and higher contrast, making the best use of 4K HDR (High Dynamic Range) content with its unique backlighting technologies in a slim design.
As HDR is a growing video standard that greatly expands the range of possible visual expression by reproducing higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colours, Sony expects HDR compatible content and services to become more and more prevalent via Internet video services, TV broadcastings and Ultra HD Blu-ray titles.
Sony’s new X93D series takes picture quality to new heights by delivering the best quality from HDR content. Sony’s new Slim Backlight Drive™ technology with a new grid-array backlighting structure, which was previously only available with full-array backlighting systems, allows X-tended Dynamic Range™ PRO technology to boost peak brightness and black levels more precisely and enhance contrast levels, while maintaining a slim form factor. The 4K Processor X1™ and its precision colour mapping technology allows TRILUMINOS™ Display to reproduce a wider color range with accurate colour details at any brightness level. The X1 also improves the streaming quality of 4K HDR images provided by Internet video services, such as Netflix.
When hung against a wall, the X93D series sits close to the wall and virtually disappears into it, leaving behind nothing but the picture itself. When the television is set on a TV rack or a cabinet, its clean cable management keeps wires out of view and looks equally elegant when viewed from behind.
This year, Sony is focusing on integrating BRAVIA TVs into the living room setting, with the notion of creating a smart living ecosystem that gives users the freedom to utilize a variety of Sony products with the TVs – by means of enhancing viewer experience.

Some of the products that are compatible with the BRAVIA ecosystem include –

PMW-F55 CineAlta 4K Digital Cinema Camera
FDR-AXP55 4K Handycam® with Built-in projector
HT-ST9 & HT-NT5 Sound Bars
A7RM2 & A7SM2 Mirrorless Cameras
Xperia Z5 & Xperia Z5 Premium mobile phones

Each television series also runs on Android TV with Sony’s exclusive user interface. From live TV broadcasting to Internet video services, the seamless user interface Content Bar includes enhanced content navigation along with voice search.

2016 BRAVIA® 4K TV Line-up:
X93D Series (55”, 65” Class models) 4K HDR TV
•        HDR compatible to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colors via Internet video services, HDMI and USB port.
•        Features Slim Backlight Drive with a unique grid-array backlighting structure distributes the backlight source more precisely to each specific zone of the screen, while maintaining a slim display.
•        Features 4K Processor X1 to improve clarity, color accuracy and contrast of HD, 4K and 4K HDR videos.
•        Includes X-tended Dynamic Range PRO to produce our best contrast ever, enhancing HDR and non-HDR content by boosting and dimming the backlight levels precisely for each zone of the screen with a unique backlighting algorithm.
•        Features vibrant, expanded color with TRILUMINOS Display, further enhanced for color accuracy.
•        Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sony’s unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasting, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos.
•        The ultra slim design hangs very close to the wall with a sleek rear design and clean cable management for table top mount.
•        Android TV lets you explore a world of movies, music, photos, games, search, apps and more. Voice Search to find content, ask questions and control your TV. With Google Cast™, you can easily send content from your smartphone or tablet to the TV. With access to Google Play™, you can enjoy what they like to do on a smartphone or tablet, from their TV.
•        Sony’s exclusive Content Bar user interface allows you to comfortably browse content quickly and intuitively without disrupting your TV viewing.
The X93D Series will be available in Malaysia from June 2016 onwards.

X85D Series (55”, 65” Class models) 4K HDR TV
•        HDR compatible to receive and process the new video standard signal with higher brightness, higher contrast and more vibrant colors via Internet video services, HDMI and USB port.
•        Features 4K Processor X1 to improve clarity, color accuracy and contrast of HD, 4K and 4K HDR videos.
•        Features vibrant, expanded color with TRILUMINOS Display, further enhanced for colour accuracy.
•        Uses 4K X-Reality PRO to produce stunning detail with Sony’s unique algorithm of reality creation database for any content, such as TV broadcasting, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video and digital photos.
•        The ultra slim design comes with sleek rear design and clean cable management for table top mount.
•        Android TV lets you explore a world of movies, music, photos, games, search, apps and more. Voice Search to find content, ask questions and control your TV. With Google Cast™, you can easily send content from your smartphone or tablet to the TV. With access to Google Play™, you can enjoy what they like to do on a smartphone or tablet, from their TV.
•        Sony’s exclusive Content Bar user inter face allows you to comfortably browse content quickly and intuitively without disrupting your TV viewing.

The X85D Series is priced at RM7,499.00 (55”) and RM10,999.00 (65”), and is now available in Malaysia at Sony Stores and selected Sony Centres.

Sony also introduced a new BRAVIA® LED television series with multiple screen size options from 40” class to 48” class. Sony expands its product line-up with X-Reality PRO which provides stunning details for any content such as TV broadcastings, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video services and digital photos. Every single pixel is up-scaled beautifully by Sony’s exclusive picture processing technology. Individual parts of each scene are analyzed and matched with a special image database. Furthermore, X-Reality PRO reproduces lively colours without sacrificing any brightness, hue or saturation of the original object.
These new BRAVIA televisions are designed with sleek lines and an elegant slim display to complement the home interior and its clean cable management keeps wires out of view when you watch the screen.
The W650D series incorporate Clear Phase audio technology which analyzes and compensates for inaccuracies in the built-in loud speaker’s response, resulting in pure, natural audio with smooth, even reproduction of all frequencies. The series can connect to a wide range of Internet video services such as YouTube and Netflix* wirelessly by using built-in Wi-Fi®. Photo Sharing Plus makes it possible for up to 10 users to share photos and music from their smartphone or tablet wirelessly on the big screen.
The W650D series is priced at RM1,699.00 and is currently available at Sony Stores and Sony Centres in Malaysia.

2016 BRAVIA® LED TV Line-up:
W650D Series (40” and 48” Class models) Full HD LED TV
•        Features X-Reality PRO to provide stunning detail with Sony’s unique reality creation database algorithm whether you are viewing a TV broadcastings, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, Internet video service or digital photos.
•        The sleek lines and an elegant slim display come with clean cable management to keep wires out of view when you watch the screen.
•        Features Clear Phase audio technology which analyzes and compensates for inaccuracies in the speaker’s response. It does this by ‘sampling’ the speaker’s frequency response with far higher precision than ever before.
•        Supports major Internet video services such as YouTube, Netflix and Opera apps* to enjoy more video content easily with built-in Wi-Fi®.
*Internet video services available vary by country.
•        Features Photo Sharing Plus which allows customer to throw photos* from their smartphone onto the big screen wirelessly, and to share their favorites photos from the TV.
*Android 2.3 and above, and iOS5 and above
•        X-Protection PRO enhances Sony TV’s durability with four protection features to guard against Dust, Lightning, Surge and Humidity.

Apart from the new TVs, Sony also previewed a range of other products including cameras, and audio systems.

As Andy and I both love cameras, we decided to try taking some shots with the RX10 mk2

For more info, head over to http://www.sony.com.my/

Photo credit: Andy Kho Photography (www.andykho.com)

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Sony Malaysia’s 2014 Bravia Lineup Launch

[Event]

Sony Malaysia launched its 2014 BRAVIA 4K line-up at the Pullman Kuala Lumpur on 2 April 2014 previewing among others, the premium flagship X9500B series, which employs the new technology X-tended Dynamic Range™ PRO that provides brilliant picture quality. Also launched was the new X9000B series also promises to deliver users an added experience, including a new design and magnetic fluid speakers, while the pocket friendly X8500B series will give consumers more options when choosing a 4K TV.
The three series added to the 4K line-up from Sony consist of six new models in total, and will all incorporate the 4K X-Reality™ PRO – Sony’s powerful picture processing engine, which uses a combination of unique up-scaling and super resolution technology to offer any content in beautiful and stunning 4K resolution.

For native 4K contents, 4K X-Reality™ PRO enhances picture quality using its 4K-to-4K pattern database, improving sharpness and crispness of original 4K images, boosting its contrast and enriching the colours on screen.
For HD content, 4K X-Reality™ PRO uses a content adaptive database for up-scaling, and depending on the content loaded on the TV, picks a suitable up-scaling algorithm to make sure every pixel is optimised for a near-4K experience. Sony’s TRILUMINOS™ Display also offers pure, bold colours to enhance the user’s viewing experience.

X9500B Series
The flagship X9500B series employs X-tendedDynamicRange PRO that achieves a much higher dynamic range of brightness, with higher peaks and deeper blacks through the use of its unique backlighting algorithm that further enhances picture quality.
By combining these three unique technologies, the X9500B series is able to achieve the highest quality picture experience ever seen. Additionally, the X9500B series will come with a new two-way Long Duct Speaker which features a 1.5 metre long duct in an approximately 0.75 litre capacity speaker box, capable of delivering a stronger, richer bass with low distortion.
In the audio department, the TVs have subwoofers built-in to the back of the TV (2 subwoofers for the 85-inch, 1 subwoofer for the 65-inch) to further support low frequencies and produce a powerful sound to match the TV’s big screen images.

X9000B Series
X9000B series incorporates a new innovative structure – “Wedge”, a form factor which was designed to increase stability in an era of ever increasing TV screen sizes. By lowering the TV’s center of gravity, Sony was able to achieve a smaller pedestal size than conventional TVs, allowing for a wide variety of installation options, despite a large screen size.
The wedge shape increases capacity and is used to incorporate a large speaker to provide deeper, more powerful sound, unprecedented for a flat-screen TV. X9000B delivers extremely clear sound via its highly acclaimed, front-facing Magnetic Fluid Speakers along with beautiful, detailed 4K images. Messy cables running behind the TV is also a thing of the past with the port replicator that helps to merge ports into single one, providing the TV with a cleaner, more elegant look.

An interesting new feature is the new One-Flick Entertainment which offer users a new style of viewing that allows users to quickly select and enjoy content. For heavy social media users, there’s also the Exmor R™ for TV CMOS sensor, with Social Viewing, allowing you to open multi-windows on the screen and simultaneously run Skype, Twitter and watch a TV programme.
The new lineup supports the latest HDMI standard, HDMI 2.0, with the ability to display 4K/60p content, and are also compatible with MHL 3.0, which supports 4K output from smartphones and tablets, and have a a new decoder which supports HEVC and can playback 4K/60p contents from Internet streaming services.

Hate your remote having too many buttons? Now you don’t need to worry with the new touch sensor remote!

Sony will also be giving consumers accessibility to 500px – http://500px.com/about a premier photography community, via the new BRAVIA TVs.
The X9500B, X9000B and X8500B series 4K LED TVs from Sony will be available in the second half of 2014.
More info at http://www.sony.com.my or https://www.facebook.com/SonyMalaysia

Lunch with the pretty Julie Woon and Rose Chin after the launch

Photos shot with the Sony Alpha 5000. More info on the camera at http://bit.ly/1eLboU1
#sonymalaysia #sonyalpha5000

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Automotive News – September 2022

[Automotive News]
BMW Malaysia Unveils the Newly Enhanced BMW M850i xDrive Coupé MY Edition

BMW Malaysia announced several enhancements for the BMW M850i xDrive Coupé on 14 September 2022. The coupe was first introduced in Malaysia back in 2018. The New BMW M850i xDrive Coupé MY Edition now sports a distinctive, new front profile and has undergone a number of sporty design upgrades to both the exterior and interior, in addition to adding more standard features.
The new BMW M850i xDrive Coupé MY Edition has been outfitted with M external mirrors and the distinctive M logo on the kidney grille as standard, thanks to the standard inclusion of the M Performance package.  The kidney grille’s “Iconic Glow” lighting element with LED modules provide a waterfall-like illumination that flows down the grille slats. The 20-inch double-spoke style M light alloy wheels in 895 M Bicolor with performance and staggered tyres, as well as the M Sport brakes in high-gloss black, add to the New BMW M850i xDrive Coupé MY Edition’s sporty appearance from the side. The M Lights Shadowline and M high-gloss Shadowline with extended contents further the New BMW M850i xDrive Coupé MY Edition’s distinctive character.
The New BMW M850i xDrive Coupé MY Edition’s interior comes with a larger, higher-resolution control display that is now 12.3 inches in size. The front passenger and driver’s seats are now M Sport seats as standard. In addition, the cabin is decorated with Carbon Fibre M inside trim finishers, and the doors have electroplated controls. The automatic air conditioning with 2-zone control provides a higher level of comfort and ambiance, while the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system is standard for onboard entertainment. The alarm system also increases vehicle security.
The new BMW M850i xDrive Coupé MY Edition is available in BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey Metallic and BMW Individual Frozen Tanzanite Blue Metallic. Interior upholstery features BMW Individual Extended Leather Trim “Merino”, with colour offerings of Black, Cognac, Ivory White, Night Blue, Tartufo and Fiona Red.
For more info, head over to https://www.bmw.com.my/en_MY/all-models/8-series/coupe/2022/bmw-8-series-coupe-highlights.html.

BMW Group Malaysia Celebrated ///M for Malaysia Day with the Largest BMW M Gathering in Malaysia

BMW Group Malaysia and the M Owners Malaysia community celebrated the 59th Malaysia Day this year with a unique gathering of over 120 powerful BMW M cars from all generations, further igniting the passion for BMW M among the local community of owners, racing enthusiasts, and fans.

“This year, as we commemorate five decades of rich history as one team with a united passion for BMW M; let us not forget the unity of Malaysians as one nation who are also celebrating 59 years of national identity. It is a true delight to witness this passion that Malaysians have for the brand in full strength, demonstrating not only their pride and love for our motorsport division but for Malaysia on such a significant day as well. We hope that the Most Powerful Letter in the World will continue to resonate with the diverse yet close-knit BMW M community here.”
Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia
Andrew Lim, Alfonso Jesena – Managing Director of FUCHS Petrolube Malaysia, Hans de Visser, and Ameet Singh (left to right)
BMW Group Malaysia also presented prizes to the winners of the nationwide search for the oldest BMW M cars from each model series in Malaysia as part of the /M for Malaysia Day celebrations. The nationwide search was held in May 2022 in connection with 50 Jahre M. Three of the six winning BMW M cars were put on display for the public to see at the Malaysia Day event.
Winners of the contest, in no particular order, are:

Han Kim Leng, 1981 BMW M535i (E12)
Harris Mah Kar Keat – 1988 BMW M3 (E30)
Lim Shin Tom – 1991 BMW M5
Gan Kian Yeh – 2006 BMW M6 (E63)
Tan Kai Che – 2015 BMW M4
Tee Yee Jiuh – 2017 BMW M2

“As we commemorate 50 Years of BMW M, we are truly floored by the strong support of all our BMW M owners and fans in Malaysia, many of whom have journeyed with us all these years to honour five rich decades of the brand’s pursuit for motorsport perfection. Their unwavering support has been pivotal to our success here, and ///M for Malaysia Day is a true exemplification of the unity and pride shown by the Malaysian BMW M community,” Hans added.

Photo credits: BMW Malaysia
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Finance News – October 2019

[Finance News]
AmBank Islamic Berhad Collaborates with Malaysian Green Technology Corporation in Support of Green Industry Initiatives

AmBank Islamic Berhad (AmBank Islamic) is collaborating with Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (MGTC), also known as GreenTech Malaysia, as part of its effort to support AmBank Group’s capacity building exercise for the deployment of AmBank Group’s Green Financing Plan.
MGTC is an organisation under the purview of the Ministry of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment & Climate Change, which was established in 2010 to spearhead the development and promotion of green technology as a strategic engine for socio-economic growth in line with the Green Technology Master Plan 2017-2030.
Through this collaboration, GreenTech Malaysia will provide AmBank Group with training programmes on green technology and green business, besides having AmBank Group to support the National Low Carbon Cities programme where it is within AmBank Group’s risk appetite and business strategy.
The exchange of documents of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between AmBank Islamic and MGTC was witnessed by Yang Berhormat Pn. Yeo Bee Yin, Minister of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change and Dato’ Sulaiman Mohd Tahir, Group Chief Executive Officer, AmBank Group. AmBank Islamic was represented by Eqhwan Mokhzanee, Chief Executive Officer, AmBank Islamic while GreenTech Malaysia was represented by Tuan Syed Ahmad Syed Mustafa Acting Chief Executive Officer / Chief Operating Officer, GreenTech Malaysia. Also present were the senior management of AmBank Group and GreenTech Malaysia.
“We are honoured to be part of this collaboration with MGTC who will act as a subject matter expert to support AmBank Group’s readiness in support of green financing-related initiatives,” said Dato’ Sulaiman Mohd Tahir.
“With this collaboration, it would further strengthen AmBank Islamic’s vision towards becoming a value-based intermediary, with the key focus on financial inclusion and responsible financing, to ensure that our banking business continues to be conducted in a responsible manner,” added Eqhwan.
Last month, AmBank Group has reached the final chapter of its BizCONFERENCE Beyond Financing Series which covered the topic ‘Building a Green Business’ with the objective to provide insights for SMEs in the country to apply a feasible framework in building a green business.
The collaboration between AmBank Islamic and GreenTech Malaysia was held in conjunction with the International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM2019) in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
IGEM is a platform for solution providers and green energy businesses to tap into the fast expanding ASEAN market by showcasing the latest innovations to policy makers, government organisations, investors and market. Over the years, IGEM has successfully generated over RM23 billion in business leads since its initiation in 2010. To date, IGEM has attracted attendance of over 420,000 visitors including delegates, dignitaries and companies from over 50 countries.

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Editor’s Note – January 2016

[Editor’s Note]
2015 was a rather forgettable year as there was so much gloom and doom perpetually hanging over the nation that it could be felt everywhere from the high-class restaurants to the coffeeshops. Well there was certainly a change in lifestyle for many citizens with many having to be more frugal with their spending and researching online before buying a product or engaging a service.
That’s actually where the power of digital media comes into play as it accessible anywhere (with a data/ internet connection), any time, and on various devices including PCs, tablets and smartphones. Unfortunately, this also spells the end for traditional media such as radio stations and magazines (such as FHM globally, Capital and Red FM in Malaysia) whose readership/ listernership has been falling significantly over the past decade.
I’ve always regarded the start of a new year as a new beginning – a chance to start afresh, to learn from the mistakes of the past year, and move forward. Hopefully the country does too as we can’t remain mired in the horrible situation of late. Anyway enough about this depressing topic.
I noticed over the past few days that many of my readers have been searching for Valentine’s Day menus and promotions at restaurants in the Klang Valley. I guess it’s always wise to plan ahead even though Valentine’s Day is six (6) weeks away and so to assist you I’ve contacted a number of the prominent hotels and restaurants in KL/ PJ to get their Valentine’s Day promotions and I’ll even try to do some reviews if there’s sufficient time. Rest assured that the list will be up soon to ease your search.
Anyway January started with a bang for me with a New Year’s Eve countdown party at Ruyi & Lyn in Bangsar Shopping Centre together with some close friends, some new friends and two (2) of my MHB bloggers namely Nicole Fu who’s back from her honeymoon, and Ashley Mah who’s back from her studies in New Zealand. Somehow the older I get the more I want to spend memorable moments with close friends and family instead of with thousands of strangers at some super crowded place like KLCC or Zouk Club.
With me was the new Fujifilm X-T10 which I’m currently reviewing and no – this post is NOT an advertorial. For those of you who know me well you’d know that I do like photography so when a good camera comes my way I always feel compelled to share my opinions on it with my bloggers, friends and readers.
Now as I’m still pretty new with the camera, most of the shots below were taken using the “Advanced SR Auto” mode which I must say is pretty intuitive; correctly reads the situation most of the time, then changes the camera’s settings to best suit it. Girls will like it for its “Portrait” mode which gives soft overall tone and beautiful skin tones, as well as the “Portrait Enhancer” mode which gives a soft skin effect.
So apart from me being excited that it was New Year’s Eve and all, I was also very excited to try out the camera in a club setting. Yes us boys and our toys…

The cute DJ Queena on the decks at Ruyi & Lyn’s NYE countdown party
With MHB’s Nicole Fu and my friend Frennee
Love the bokeh/ background defocus effect in this pic.
Soon it was midnight and time for champagne!
Former runway models June Yap and Brigette Yu (L-R)

Love how the camera captures the ambient light

Then on New Year’s Day I headed over for a somewhat more quite night with some single malt whisky and special cocktails at HYDE @ 53M with May Yee whom I’ve known for 19 years. She’s one of the few girls I know who has the confidence to go out bare faced! HYDE @ 53M is a speakeasy bar located in Uptown Damansara and they have no signage so you’ve got to look out for the unit number.

I shot this pic with the camera’s built in flash at really close range and usually it’s pretty harsh but this turned out pretty even! Very impressed!
The next day was the highlight of my weekend – Soren and Lavinne’s wedding dinner at Marini’s on 57 which I dubbed the ” Wedding of the Year”.

Violinist Dennis Lau provided the tunes for the wedding march

Some of the gorgeous gusts included Miss Universe Malaysia 2013 Carey Ng. Amber Chia and Dato Jimmy Choo were also in attendance along with a lot of other high-profile people.
She’s just so gorgeous!
Congratulations to the bride and groom!
Steph and myself with the newly-weds!

With celebrity DJ Leng Yein

The very romantic dinner setting

I’ll be using the Fujifilm X-T10 throughout January so look out for more photos taken with the camera.
More info at http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x_t10/
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Palazzo Maffei Wine Pairing Dinner at a’Roma Dinings

[Events]
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Joanne and I recently attended the Palazzo Maffei wine pairing dinner which was held at a’Roma dining which is located in a quiet corner of Taman Paramount in Petaling Jaya. It was my first time visiting a’Roma dinings which started operations in December 2015. This Italian cuisine restaurant has a rustic, old Italy vibe with dark wood furniture, a hand-painted Colliseum mural, and slow music – making it an ideal spot for a casual date or dining with family/ friends. Actually there are not many such establishments in this area of Petaling Jaya therefore the restaurant is a viable option if one doesn’t want to travel out of PJ.
The chefs have a make-from-scratch approach, with large part of the menu items made in-house including breads and pastas. On the menu you’ll find fresh pasta, cured meats, roasts and more which you can pair with wine. Their coffee bar offers gourmet artisan coffee from the Gayo Highlands of Acheh and a series of premier handpicked teas by Harney & Sons.

Palazzo Maffei hails from an ancient estate in the hearth of Valpolicella, in Italy – renowned as a land of excellence and of age-old winemaking traditions. The brand pride itself with producing a collection of precious wines with an austere, aristocratic personality. When the Cottini family took over this historic property, they decided to continue the winemaking tradition of the noble Veronese family of Marquis Maffei.
The history of the Cottini family has been one of dedication, determination and success – and of noble ideals that inspires every action. It all started in 1925 with the family founder Carlo Cottini, and grew in the 1952s with his son Raffaello.
The estate occupies a single 12-hectares plot: a clearly defined area in a very favorable position for producing wines of elegance and quality. In Valpolicella, to the east of Verona, the land is ideal for a winery due to the altitude and by the composition of the calcareous and clayey soils, exposure to the sun, microclimate, and the care of the historic vineyard.
The winery produces a collection of red wines with a noble heart, and high-ranking whites of great styles and elegance, reflecting the strict selection in the vineyard and meticulous method in the cellar. Wines with an assertive, unmistakable personality, from the austere Amarone to the lovely recioto.
Taler Graf – “literaly Count if the Valley” – is the name that the locals used when referring to the aristocratic family of Marquis Maffei in the ancient Cimbrian language. Palazzo Maffei decided to give the same name to a selection of fine wines – elegant, aristocratic treasures with an astounding wealth of fragrances and aromas.

My partner in crime for the evening

Ken (left) who is the proprietor of a’Roma Dinings, with Amy Leese who’s a certified sommelier and wine consultant giving the welcoming address

Pane

Focaccia, Crocante & Grissini
served with tomato relish, aged balsamic, extra virgin olive oil
I love home made rustic breads as compared to those commercially available ones. The breads at a’Roma as fresh and went well especially with the tomato relish!

Amuse-bouche

Rabbit duo
of lavash (thin crust Turkish bread), liver parfait, brandy, truffle, saddle (beast meat of the rabbit), prosciutto
A little preview of the dishes to come, showcasing the chef’s skills by combining various flavours and textures! Not often that I eat rabbit!

Appetizer

Citrus Confit Salmon Trout
with yoghurt, apple, fennel, roe
A beautifully cooked piece of salmon, topped with roe which provided an intense burst of umami flavours. The yogurt sauce kept the dish appetising and fresh! A simple but well-executed starter!
Paired with the Palazzo Maffei Lugana which is made solely of Trebbiano di Lugana grapes which have a distinct minerality taste. I’m not a fan of having red wine with fish/ seafood so I enjoyed this wine separately.

Pasta

Slow Braised Rabbit Ragu
with homemade curly pappardelle, pomodoro, vino rosso, grana padano
Rabbit makes an appearance again – this time slow braised till really tender and sitting atop the pasta and topped with a grana padano disk which was baked till crispy. This was a very hearty dish indeed and sadly we had to restrain ourselves from finishing it as we had to leave some space for the mains. This pasta is ideal for those who like gamey meats (myself being one of them).
Paired with the Palazzo Maffei Valpolicella which is a blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara grapes. This wine pairs well with pastas and pizzas such as the dish above.

Mains (Choice of)

Cod Confit
tiger prawn & katalfi, edamame, zucchini
A perfectly cooked piece of cod with a fried tiger prawn on the side. A surprisingly elegant dish for a restaurant which prides itself on being more rustic but nevertheless it was a welcome surprise. Always nice when restaurants elevate their dishes.

or

Lamb Rack
charred eggplant, asparagus, baby beets, juniper jus
I had this one which was simply lovely! A lamb rack cooked to a nice pink medium that went wonderfully with the wine pairing. This was my favourite pairing of the evening! A well executed dish enhanced by the flavours of the wine.
Paired with Valpolicella Ripasso which is made from Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grape varietals. The wine has a firm and resolute personality that brings out all the taste and aromatic harmony of ripe fruit. On the palate it is elegant, robust and lingering.

Dessert

Panna Cotta
white chocolate, strawberries, balsamic, sorbet
A decadent dessert to end the meal. The surprise ingredient was the balsamic vinegar which really perked up the dish and prevented it from becoming overly rich!
Paired with the Amarone which is a blend of 70% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, and 10% Molinara. The wine is aged for two (2) years in a barrel and is quite premium because of the juice from the grapes which is reduced to half its original volume.. The result is a wine that is sweet and robust with some dryness – giving it a very balanced taste indeed!

For more info on Palazzo Maffei, head over to http://palazzomaffei.com

a’Roma Dinings is located at
1, Jalan 20/14,
Paramount Garden,
46300 Petaling Jaya,
Selangor, Malaysia.

Telephone: 03-7865 9829
Website: http://www.aromadinings.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aromadinings/
Closed on Mondays.

Thanks for having us!
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vivo Malaysia Launches the vivo V20 and V20 Pro

vivo Malaysia officially launched the vivo V20 and V20 Pro in Malaysia, on 20 October 2020. The V20 series offers innovative selfie capabilities that allow users to record and capture the perfect moments in their lives, especially with its brand-new technology – Eye Autofocus.
“vivo always innovates with the consumer in mind. Within the slim design of the V20 series lies vivo’s latest cutting-edge mobile photography innovation – the 44MP Eye Autofocus front camera. It also comes with strong all-around performance and affordable pricing, which made it an ideal device for consumers who like to take regular photos and record their life stories,” said Mike Xu, Chief Executive Officer of vivo Malaysia.
The vivo V20 and V20 Pro’s front cameras are catered for superior selfies. The V20 features a 44MP Eye Autofocus front camera while the V20 Pro is fitted with the Eye Autofocus Dual Front Camera, which includes a 44MP Super Definition Main Camera and an 8MP Super Wide-Angle Camera.
The main lens of the V20 and V20 Pro features Eye Autofocus (AF), which uses advanced algorithms to track and focus on moving selfie subjects. With the capability to sharpen photo and video quality for multi-person pictures and track mobile subjects, the feature is ideal for a wide range of user scenarios like taking vlogs or group selfies. Vlog quality is further enhanced through the Steadiface Selfie Video feature that stabilises the subject when shooting videos, through a face-focused algorithm that performs edge cropping in a targeted manner.
The V20 and V20 Pro’s front cameras are also packed with additional features — Slo-Mo Selfie Video, 4K Selfie Video, and Super Night Selfie. Meanwhile, the 64MP-8MP-2MP back camera setup features Super Night Mode on the main lens, which supports tripod shooting, wide-angle night scenes, and Stylish Night Filter. The device also features Dual-View Video that allows the user to combine footage captured by the front and rear cameras. The V20 Pro’s 8MP Super Wide Camera offers a 105° (103.6° after correcting for distortion) Super Wide-Angle Selfie, and pairs with distortion-correction algorithm to create incredibly wide and natural-looking photos.

The vivo V20 and V20 Pro also sport an ultra-sleek and light design, packing vivo’s latest technological advancements in a new level of thinness and lightness. The V20 Pro measures 7.39mm thin and weighs 170g, while the V20 measures 7.38mm and 171g.
With AG Matte Glass adding a soft and delicate touch, as well as Dual Tone Step which stylishly mitigates the rear camera protrusion, V20 and V20 Pro are instantly recognisable. In Malaysia, the V20 comes Midnight Jazz and Sunset Melody, while the V20 Pro will come in Midnight Jazz and Moonlight Sonata, encapsulating the unique hues of the skies that create colour symphonies and celebrate the beauty of nature.
The V20 and V20 Pro are powered by the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 720G processor and 765G processor respectively, delivering smooth performance for applications and games. A 4,000mAh (TYP) battery with vivo’s 33W FlashCharge technology provides enough power for users without having to be constantly charged.

vivo has also incorporated its Funtouch OS 11 into the V20 series which features themes and App icons that offers a refreshing look while being simple, efficient, and highly intuitive for users to interact with.
V20 will run on the recently launched Android 11 operating system, which will give users more convenient ways to manage conversations, device controls, privacy settings, and more. With Android 11, users will be able to see, respond to, and control their conversations across multiple messaging apps in one place and pin conversations to the top of other apps for better multitasking, making it easier for fast moving smartphone users to connect. Android 11 will also give users a one touch path to controlling connected devices, seamless switching with media output devices, and the Nearby Share feature to quickly send files, videos, map locations, and more to a nearby Android device. Depending on market conditions, vivo has a plan to equip each model in the V20 series with Funtouch OS 11 based on Android 11 in succession.

Both the V20 and V20 Pro will be available in Malaysia on 24 October 2020, priced at RM 1,499 and RM 1,899 respectively. Pre-order is now available on vivo Malaysia’s official store on Shopee and Lazada until 23 October 2020, with exclusive free gifts worth up to RM 788 and RM 758 respectively.
Customers who pre-order the vivo V20 on Shopee, will be entitled to receive a leather duffle bag worth RM 100, extended phone warranty and extended phone crack cover worth RM 299 and a pre-loaded Starbucks card worth RM 30 (for first 50 customers), while stocks last. Additionally, every fifth customer will also receive vivo TWS Neo Earbuds during the pre-order period of 20 – 23 October 2020.
Customers who pre-order the vivo V20 Pro on Lazada will receive an air purifier, a leather duffle bag worth RM 100, extended phone warranty and extended phone crack cover worth RM 299, while stocks last. Besides that, 30 lucky customers will be walking away with vivo TWS Neo Earbuds.
Upon purchase of the V20 series smartphone at the vivo concept store, customers will be entitled to receive gifts worth RM 399, inclusive of one-year extended phone warranty and one-year extended phone crack cover worth RM 299 and one leather duffle bag worth RM 100.

Photo credits: vivo Malaysia

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ASUS Launches the All-New ZenFone 5 and ZenFone Max Pro (M1) in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets]

Headed over to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on 31 May for ASUS Malaysia’s official launch of the all-new ZenFone 5, and the ZenFone Max Pro (M1). The new ZenFone 5 was designed to be a next-generation 6.2-inch dual-camera smartphone that’s the first ever ZenFone to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI), while the ZenFone Max Pro (M1) is targeted at gamers with its powerful processor and high-capacity battery.
The ZenFone 5 is powered by the latest Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 636 Mobile Platform that provides smooth, responsive, power-efficient performance and AI capabilities. ZenFone 5 has an intelligent dual-camera system that adapts and learns, hence this new models is part of the new “Intelligent phone” generation, an improvement over smartphones. Users are encouraged to focus on creativity as the flagship Sony® IMX363 sensor, 120° wide-angle secondary camera and AI-enhanced camera features — including AI Scene Detection, real-time portrait effects, AI Photo Learning and real-time beautification will assist to provide the best possible photo for the scene.
The ZenFone 5 is crafted with premium materials and has a strikingly beautiful ultra slim-bezel, all-screen design, a 6.2-inch display with a 90% screen-to-body ratio in a glass-covered body that’s as small and compact as most standard 5.5-inch phones.

The intelligent dual-camera system in the ZenFone 5 uses the flagship Sony® IMX363 image sensor, with large 1.4µm pixels and a bright f/1.8 wide-aperture six-element lens that captures up to 5X-brighter and clearer photos in low-light conditions, as well as enabling dramatic Night HDR shots. The 120° wide-angle secondary camera has a field of view that’s 2X wider than a standard smartphone camera, for capturing more expansive landscapes, more natural group shots, and easier photos in cramped spaces.
Following the trend of the new generation of “intelligent phones”, the camera system incorporates advanced AI algorithms and advanced big-data analytics, so ZenFone 5, while the special AI-enhanced features in ZenFone 5 adapt and learn.
·        AI Scene Detection: The ZenFone 5 use AI to rapidly analyze the subject and match it to one of its 16 scene types, optimizing the camera settings for almost any kind of shot from sunsets to pet pics.
·        AI Photo Learning: AI Photo Learning lets users teach ZenFone 5 how they like your photos to look. It then automatically adjusts the camera settings for future shots — so photos will always reflect the user’s unique style preferences.
·        Real-time Portrait: This feature ensures that the main subject stays pin-sharp, while the background is given a sense of depth with a graduated bokeh effect — created using depth information intelligently analyzed from the subject — for a beautifully artistic photo.
·        Real-time Beautification: AI Beautification intelligently reads 365 facial points and applies personalized beautification based on an analysis of over two million possible enhancements. It works in real time with any face — regardless of age, shape, skin tone or gender — producing natural-looking results. Those who are into live-streaming video would be happy to know that this feature works there too.
·        Pro mode: The Pro mode that gives users full control of all the camera settings, including white balance, exposure, focus, ISO, and an impressive range of shutter speeds from 1/10000 to 32 seconds, with support for unprocessed RAW files.

The ZenFone 5 has achieved a DxOMark Mobile score of 90 points, with an exceptional score of 93 in Photo tests. The full article with the results is available at http://www.dxomark.com/ASUS-zenfone-5-camera-review-excellent-mid-range-option/
The latest powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 Mobile Platform – an advanced 14µm 64-bit octa-core system-on-a-chip (SoC) is paired with 4GB RAM, delivering over 40%-higher CPU performance and 10%-higher graphics performance than the Snapdragon 630 Mobile Platform, while maintaining excellent battery life.
The ASUS AI Boost optimizes performance for games or demanding tasks, while to keep the phone cool, four 0.06mm-slim carbon cooling pads efficiently dissipate heat and maintain top performance at all times.
Powering the device is a high-capacity 3300mAh battery with ASUS BoostMaster fast-charge technology and AI Charging that dynamically adjusts the charging rate by monitoring the user’s charging habits, slowing down the battery’s ageing process.
The ZenFone 5 supports dual 4G LTE SIMs with Dual SIM, Dual VoLTE (DSDV) capabilities. This allows both SIMs to be on active standby, and also supports enhanced HD voice calls over 4G LTE on both SIMs.
The 6.2-inch Full HD+ all-screen display, with its 90% screen-to-body ratio and 2.5D-curved glass, provides a bigger viewing experience. The all-screen display also supports the DCI-P3 colour space, with a wide colour gamut that enhances colour saturation for amazingly vivid image reproduction. The ZenFone 5 features intelligent display technology that uses smart sensors to automatically adjust the display’s colour temperature in real time according to the ambient lighting. It also features Smart Screen On, which prevents the screen from turning off when the user’s face is detected, avoiding the problem of the screen turning off when the user is reading content for extended periods without touching the screen.
Delivering the sound are two five-magnet stereo speakers that deliver deep, rich and expansive stereo sound, driven by dual smart amplifiers. The phone supports Hi-Res Audio files encoded at up to 24-bit/192KHz sample rates — 4X better than CD quality, and comes with a set of premium Hi-Res Audio-capable earbuds in the box that supports DTS Headphone:X™ for 7.1-channel virtual surround-sound over headphones.

The phone can be unlocked using the rapid face unlock, or in 0.3 seconds using the rear fingerprint sensor, and the integrated NFC capability. AI Ringtone intelligently adjusts the ringer volume according to the ambient noise level, so users won’t miss calls even on a busy street or in a noisy restaurant, and calls received in the middle of the night won’t disturb sleepers.
ZeniMoji is a fun new feature — exclusive to ASUS — that lets users animate cute avatars using their own voice, facial expressions and head movements. Uniquely, ZeniMoji avatars can be used in video chats or live-streaming, as well as in text chats, to make them more entertaining.
The ZenFone 5 is available on Lazada priced at RM1,299 and comes in two (2) colours.

ASUS Malaysia also launched the ZenFone Max Pro (M1), a high-performance addition to the new ZenFone Max Series. The ZenFone Max Pro packs a massive 5,000mAh battery, a 6-inch FHD+ Full View display and a dual-camera system into a compact body that’s no larger than many standard 5.5-inch smartphones. The design of the phone features a 180g-light metal body with diamond-cut edges and 2.5D-curved display glass, and is available in two finishes: Deepsea Black and Meteor Silver.
An advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 Mobile Platform, combines smooth, responsive performance with superb battery life, and a powerful Adreno 509 GPU that delivers enhanced mobile gaming and browsing performance. To prove that point, we got to play Free Fire (a battle royale survival game) on the phone with the graphics set to max to see how it would perform. I didn’t notice any discernible lag while the graphics and gameplay was smooth! Pretty impressive for a phone at this price point!
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 Mobile Platform is an advanced 14nm 64-bit octa-core system-on-a-chip (SoC) with up to 6GB RAM, and which delivers over 40%-higher CPU performance and 10%-higher graphics performance than the Snapdragon 630 Mobile Platform, while maintaining excellent battery life. In addition to improved performance, the Adreno 509 GPU supports Qualcomm TruPallete™ and EcoPix™ technologies for superior colour contrast, lifelike visuals and more efficient rendering of advanced 3D graphics.
ZenFone Max Pro ships with pure Android™ 8.1 Oreo™, the latest version of the Android user interface.

The main feature of the ZenFone Max Series is definitely the huge battery capacity, designed for serious travellers and those who need maximum battery endurance, with its high-capacity, high-density 5,000mAh battery. The ZenFone Max Pro offers users up to 20 hours of YouTube video playback, up to 42 hours 3G talk time, and up to 28 hours of Wi-Fi web browsing. On a single charge, users can enjoy playing more: for example, up to 45 rounds (based on an estimated average playtime of 15 min per round, for a total of 11.3 hours of gameplay) of Mobile Legends, or up to 2 seasons of Games of Thrones.
The ZenFone Max Pro can charge its 5,000mAh battery from 0% to 100% in just 2 hours and 42 minutes, compared to some rival products with a 4,000mAh battery that need well over 3 hours.
The 6-inch Full View FHD+ (1080 x 2160) display features 450cd/m2 brightness, 1500:1 contrast ratio and an 85% NTSC colour gamut, while the ultrawide 18:9 aspect ratio and slim bezels provide a greatly expanded viewing area. Multitasking is also easier, as two apps fit comfortably side-by-side on the screen.
The ZenFone Max Pro comes with a five-magnet speaker driven by an NXP smart amplifier that delivers higher volume with lower distortion. Compared to single-magnet speaker performance, ZenFone Max Pro delivers 41% louder sound, 14% better low-frequency response and 12% less distortion.

The ZenFone Max Pro has an advanced dual-camera system at the back and has a high-resolution up to 16MP sensor with a high-quality f/2.0 wide-aperture lens. The secondary camera is used to create an artistic bokeh effect for portraits and close-ups, putting the subject in sharp focus while progressively blurring the background for a gentle yet powerful effect that really makes the subject stand out.
ZenFone Max Pro shoots video at up to 4K UHD resolution, while the front camera enables selfies with softlight LED flash and a live beautification feature that instantly retouches shots to remove blemishes, balance facial features, enhanced skin tone and more.

ZenFone Max Pro comes with two SIM slots supporting 4G LTE speeds up to 400Mbps, and an additional microSD slot to expand storage by up to 2TB. Its convenient triple-slot tray lets users install two SIMs and a microSD card in one easy step. ZenFone Max Pro comes with a new face unlock feature that lets users unlock the phone simply by looking at it, and a rear fingerprint sensor that unlocks the phone in an instant.
ZenFone Max Pro is available in two stunning finishes to match the user’s style: Deepsea Black and Meteor Silver. It is available on Lazada Malaysia priced at RM799 for the 4GB RAM + 64GB storage, and RM599 for the 5GB RAM + 32GB storage.

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STYLO Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion

[Event]
Kronenbourg 1664 once again showcased the luxury of French fashion in an evening of L’Aperitif Fashion, premium French beer, and some surprises on 20 March 2013 at the Mercedes-Benz STYLO FGP 2013.
Entitled “Not Les Miserables” the venue which was the ballroom of the newly opened Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral was transformed with modern French art-deco creating an air of indulgence and tres chic.
It was a night of fashion showcases by Bill Keith, Carven Ong, Tangoo, and a hair presentation by A Cut Above.
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 The Terminator – Carlsberg Managing Director Soren Ravn

 Carlsberg MD Soren Ravn rapping on the runway with Malaysian beatboxer Shawn Lee
 And the show begins!
 MHB’s Kelly and Naomi
 Michelle Ooi and Jasimine
 That’s Miss World Malaysia 2011 Chloe Chen on the left
 I thought this model looked like a doll
 Malaysian supermodel Amber Chia dazzled the crowd as she paraded a one-of-a-kind dress by Alexander Yeo which featured 3,000 Kronenbourg 1664 bottle caps while Carlsberg Managing Director also took to the runway in a French inspired outfit.
 Miss Universe Malaysia 2013 Carey Ng, Miss World Malaysia 2012 Lee Yvonne and their friend
 Natalia Mei and Jean
 Lots of Kronenbourg 1664 lager and Blanc for us to drink!
 MHB’s Naomi Tham and Kelly Siew
 With Miss Universe Malaysia 2013 Carey Ng
 We got Dawn Yang to take a group pic with us.
 Sexy Fay Hokulani with Natalia Mei
 Which is your fav? Lager or Blanc?
 MHB’s Melissa and Kelly
 With the sexy Leng Yein
 With FHM Girl Next Door 2010 Yvonne Sim
 With celebrity Singaporean blogger Dawn Yang who so happen was in town
 MHB group pic on the runway!
 Just the MHB girls this time
 With Kelly, Melissa, Erik, Dawn Yang and Natalia Mei
 Melissa Yang, Kelly Siew, Dawn Yang and Natalia Mei
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More info at https://www.facebook.com/KronenbourgMY

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RYAN ADDA’s MIDO 2019 Collection Preview at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur

[Event]
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We recently headed over to Altitude at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur for the exclusive high-tea and preview of RYAN ADDA’s new MIDO 2019 collection of frames. RYAN ADDA believes that “Visibility is Life”, and thus created their fashion forward yet relaxed eyewear designs that bridges the gap between young trendsetters and fashionable progressive lens wearers, and for those who want the finesse of designer eyewear but at a more accessible price-point.
The idea behind RYAN ADDA was first conceived when a group of talented young, inspired individuals from across Asia met up for the first time near Flinders Street Station in Melbourne, Australia after months of traveling, research, and discussion.
Together with Ryan and Agnes, they came up with some unique and creative ideas to embrace the ever-changing world in 2016.  RYAN ADDA has quickly grown into a successful international brand, lead by an incredible team with boutiques across Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, China and France.
RYAN is a change-maker with a deep passion in shifting status-quo to enhance efficacy and efficiency in things around him. This passion sparked the development of a stylish and iconic Asian-inspired brand, that provides optometry practices with a choice of stylish and beautifully balanced eyewear. Ryan is also known as the eyewear stylist in South East Asia.
ADDA. The acronym ADDA represents Agnes, Donovan, Darell, and Amanda, who are the fundamental foundation to this brand. Each member’s unique personality has been a source of inspiration for the brand, including the different collections within the range.
Each RYAN ADDA piece has its own unique story, individually designed taking inspiration from the beauty around us, with the wearer and functionality always being top of mind.

For more info, head over to http://www.ryanadda.com

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vivo Malaysia Debuts its Newest Flagship Smartphone – X60 Series

[Technology & Gadgets]

vivo Malaysia officially launched its newest flagship smartphone, the X60 series on 22 March 2021. The X60 series – consisting of the X60 and X60 Pro – marks the inaugural vivo devices to be conceived in collaboration with ZEISS, a global leader in optics and opto-electronics. The vivo X60 series is consistent with the elegance of the vivo X50 with super slender curves and a sleek silhouette.
The X60 series signifies vivo’s seriousness in deliver a superior mobile photography experience to their customers, and is the first vivo smartphone to be co-engineered with the iconic brand, integrating the outstanding expertise in mobile imaging of ZEISS. The combined best-in-class optical lenses, sensors, image processing algorithms and diverse multi-modal features allow users to enjoy camera technologies that were previously only limited to professional photographers.
“The X60 series is the brainchild of the team of visionary engineers at vivo eager to push the boundaries of technology and reimagine the device we have all come to love and rely on today. As one of the world’s leading smartphone brands and in pursuit of true perfection, we have dedicated ourselves to design the best for a new generation of photography-obsessed smartphone users. As such, our mission to lead the mobile imaging industry with breakthrough technology continues in the form of a strategic partnership with ZEISS. Together, we have co-engineered an imaging system unique to our latest flagship and together we will usher in a new age of mobile photography.”Mike Xu, Chief Executive Officer of vivo Malaysia
Photography Redefined Through Global Partnership with ZEISS
Key to the X60 series’ superior photography capabilities lies in its ground-breaking vivo ZEISS co-engineered imaging system. The X60 series has three rear cameras (48MP + 13MP + 13MP), as well as a 32MP front camera. The ZEISS logo has been emblazoned on the lens, while the ZEISS Vario-Tessar trademark is engraved beneath the cameras.
For the first time, users can also access ZEISS Biotar Portrait Style on the vivo X series. This new feature allows users to create customized professional portraits, with an unprecedented ability to render centre sharpness and unique swirly harmonious bokeh.
vivo has refined its existing imaging technologies to be implemented within the X60 series, starting with Gimbal Stabilization 2.0. Both devices utilise the latest VIS 5-axis video stabilization technology, allowing users to obtain clear shots of objects in dynamic motion with greater accuracy. Additionally, Extreme Night Vision 2.0 helps users to recreate the million shades of night with a single tap, capturing the impressive expanse of the night through vivo’s innovative AI noise reduction algorithm.
Through the Cinematic Master feature, videos can be filmed on a 2.35:1 widescreen aspect ratio with clever audio zoom and direction sound input. Depending on their situational needs, users may also choose between HDR Super Night Portrait, Ultra-Wide Night Mode, Super Pano, Pro Sports Mode, Kids Snapshot, Multi-Style Portrait and Long-Exposure Mode, amongst many others.

The vivo X60 series is fitted out with the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 870 which provides a substantial boost in CPU and GPU performance, with energy efficient processors that contain integrated 5G basebands that provide fast 5G wireless network speeds with minimal latency.
To accelerate the speed of its flagship processor, the Snapdragon 870 provides users with substantially quicker file transfer and larger file storage. The device is powered by a 4200mAh (TYP) battery and 33W FlashCharge technology, that provides a swift charging time.
Optimising users’ sensory experience, the vivo X60 series features a 120Hz refresh rate* and 240Hz response rate running on an edge-to-edge AMOLED display. The industry leading 120Hz refresh rate allows for effortless scrolling and viewing, while the 240Hz response rate induces an ultra-responsive touch screen to optimize user performance in gaming or occupational capacities. Additionally, the X60 series has been awarded with certifications including HDR10+, SGS Eye Care Display, SGS Seamless and Hi-Res Audio; consumers can look forward to vivid clarity with stunning displays, leading to rich and immersive visuals that won’t strain the eyes after long periods of usage.
The X60 features a 6.56-inch flexible Ultra O Screen containing a 3.96mm front camera punch hole centred at the top with ultra-narrow bezels. the Midnight Black colourway weighs a mere 176 grams with an ultra-thin body of 7.36 mm.  The contours are more captivating than ever and adorned with a choker – a beautiful band that runs along the top edge to complete a picture of grace with sophisticated touch and feel.
The rear cameras are encased within the vivo X60 series’ New Dual-Tone Step, an ingenious layered design that refrains from an otherwise bulky look. Fashioned in thin cascading panels that rise in subtle steps, the Dual-Tone Step integrates all the professional-grade imaging technologies and photography features co-engineered with ZEISS.
Ultra-Thin Design with Premium Aesthetics
The colour palettes of the X60 Pro and X60 were inspired by the summer bloom, available in Shimmer Blue or Midnight Black.
Beginning 22 March 2021, both variants of the vivo X60 series are available for pre-order at all vivo concept stores, vivo authorised dealers and collaboration partners including Shopee and Lazada. The vivo X60 retails at RM2699 while the X60 Pro retails at RM3299.
For a limited time only (22nd March 2021, 9.30 pm until 26th March 2021), a pre-order of the X60 series at all vivo concept stores come with 1-year extended warranty, 1-year screen crack protection and either an X60 premium gift box or a free luggage.
For the first 50 purchase of the vivo X60 series on official vivo flagship store on Shopee and Lazada, buyers will additionally receive the X8 smartwatch and one piece of HealthLand Massage Gift Card worth RM100 (with purchase the X60) or one piece of Aurum Theatre Cinema Pass worth RM110 (with purchase of the X60 Pro).
For more information on the new vivo X60 series, head over to www.vivo.com/my/

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