Datasets:

wanadzhar913

/

crawl-timchew

like 0

https://timchew.net/2017/02/09/signing-ceremony-between-hwl-jewellery-trading-sdn-bhd-and-swarovski/

Signing Ceremony between HWL Jewellery Trading Sdn Bhd and Swarovski

[Event]    Stephanie and I attended the signing Ceremony between HWL Jewellery Trading Sdn Bhd and Swarovski on 25 January 2017 at the Hotel Istana in Kuala Lumpur. HWL Jewellery Trading Sdn Bhd, has been active in the Malaysian jewelry industry for over 30 years, serving over 600 jewelry retail shops across Malaysia. At the event, HWL Jewellery Trading debuted a new brand name called C88 Premier for the line of products that will be collaborating with Swarovski, utilizing only the highest quality Zirconia (synthetic diamonds) from Swarovski. HWL Jewellery Trading believes this will be a game changer in Malaysia’s jewelry industry as it is the only company in Malaysia that will be collaborating with Swarovski for its Zirconia and Gemstones line of products. HWL Jewellery Trading was founded in 1985, with the name of Hup Weng Lee Jewellery Trading Company, carrying the brand CAP88. In 1997, the company was registered as a private limited company (Sdn Bhd), known as Hup Weng Lee Jewellery Trading Sdn Bhd, while maintaining the brand  CAP88. In 2009, the company was renamed as HWL Jewellery Trading Sdn Bhd, with the brand changing to C88. That same year, HWL moved into the Menara Perdana industrial building in Georgetown, Penang, with their own jewellery processing plant. 2017 was a significant year for HWL with the co-branding collaboration with Swarovski – the renowned international company that producing gemstones of the highest standard.        C88 Premier has strict quality control in every single manufacturing process which is possible due to the company having their own jewellery production plant. Their diamond-standard quality stone setting craftsmanship is usually only commonly found in premium jewelleries, especially diamond jewelleries because of the complexity and the long hours of work involved. Each and every prong – which are the so-called ‘teeth’ that are holding the stones in place) is carefully crafted and features a smooth and polished surface as compared to standard quality techniques which will leave scars and marks which leads to rough and dull surface. The gaps between each and every stone is identical, and the placement of the prongs features parallel and symmetry dimensions. The company achieved the above thanks to the constant outlay of investment on machinery and new technology to ensure continuous improvements and innovations in their product offerings. The collaboration with Swarovski provides C88 Premier with endless possibilities, thanks to Swarovski’s wide range of innovative gemstones designs and colour choices. We got to view the latest range from C88 Premier, and the company promises that more creations and innovations are to come.    The Swarovski crystals used to make the C88 Premier collection Pretty influencers at the event The model showcasing the latest collection   For more info, head over to http://c88.my/    Thanks for having us! Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/07/08/private-and-safe-journeys-with-vistajets-safe-havens/

Private and Safe Journeys with VistaJet’s Safe Havens

[Travel/ Aviation News] Bombardier Global 7500   VistaJet unveiled their “VistaJet’s Safe Havens” on 8 July 2020, featuring an ultimate portfolio of private and safe journeys for their members to experience exclusive-use escapes and health-enhancing adventures around the world as the borders reopen this summer. During a challenging time with COVID-19, planning and researching future journeys is high on the agenda, and a vast majority, 80% of global travelers intend to explore as soon as they are able (source: LUXX Media, Ultra Affluent Consumer Survey). With privacy and safety becoming paramount, health is being factored into travel choices more than ever before (source: Travel + Leisure, Will Travel Change After Coronavirus? Here’s What Experts Have to Say). Travelers’ concept of safety is also changing. Historically, travelers associated safety only with what happens outside of the aircraft. Now, the journey to the aircraft, the in-cabin experience, and the final destination (source: Abercrombie & Kent, Luxury Consumer Travel Trends Post Lockdown Revealed) are the driving factors. As the number of touchpoints significantly decreases when flying private, around 20 interactions as opposed to 700 when flying commercial (source: Private Jet Card Comparisons, COVID-19 Coronavirus risk 30 times lower on private jets, says operator), the travel industry expects to see an increased number of first-time private flyers looking for safer and more reliable alternatives. Research shows that 79% of ultra high nett worth individuals would be more inclined to travel by private jet than before (source: LUXX Media, Ultra Affluent Consumer Survey), and this is reflected in VistaJet’s new incoming requests: as of June 2020, 71% are from passengers who have not regularly used business aviation solutions before. VistaJet uses a fleet of Bombardier business jets, comprising of a number of Bombardier Challenger models, as well as the long-range Bombardier Global 7500 flagship.   Bombardier Global 7500 Bombardier Global 7500 interior Bombardier Global 7500 interior   Partnering with a network of world-leading travel experts and properties including Abercrombie & Kent, Velaa Private Island, Blue Marble Private, ROAR AFRICA, Entourage Travel, Dean Stott and The Eden Club, the VistaJet Private Office can exclusively facilitate safe point-to-point journeys from flight to destination for members to enjoy a memorable holiday with the maximum peace of mind. VistaJet World Safe Havens includes seven (7) exceptional destinations, all with privacy, health and minimized contact at their core:   Velaa Private Island, Maldives   Velaa Private Island has been designed and curated with privacy and comfort as its guiding principles, while allowing the Indian Ocean to take center stage. Within 35 minutes of landing, VistaJet Members can sink their toes into the island sand with their personal butler on hand to take care of check in and any individual requirements. All 47 private villas, of which 18 are suspended over water, feature private pools. For those wanting ultimate seclusion, the Romantic Pool Residence can only be reached by boat, allowing for even more privacy. Private island buyouts can also be arranged. Guests can contribute to The Velaa Private Island Coral Project, one of the largest coral reef restoration projects in the Maldives, by adopting a coral plantation and following its development with the marine biology team. Private Moments, from deserted island picnics to wine tastings, are tailored to the occasion and guest preferences. There are also unlimited activities for all to enjoy in privacy, from golf at the Velaa Golf Academy designed by Ryder Cup Captain José María Olazábal, to the Maldives’ only snow room in the Velaa Spa.   Chêne Bleu, France with Dean Stott and Joe Fattorini Experience a truly unique vineyard tour, cycling through beautiful France, guided by Dean Stott, a former special forces operator and holder of two world cycling records. Guests will be hosted in the vineyard by Dean’s friend, Joe Fattorini — one of the world’s leading wine experts and presenter of The Wine Show. This is a unique opportunity to bring together two diverse interests with two leading experts in their fields. VistaJet Members will be based at La Verrière, a wine estate and ninth century priory specializing in sustainable luxury, restored by Nicole Sierra-Rolet and Xavier Rolet KBE. It is home to the award-winning Chêne Bleu wines, praised by critics as the world’s first Super Rhônes. For the keen cyclists, Dean will challenge guests with the nearby Mont Ventoux and for those preferring to immerse themselves in wine or simply enjoy the estate, a taster of Chêne Bleu’s signature Extreme Wine course and the pool await. Each evening, as Members enjoy farm-to-table fare, prepared by internationally trained chef Victor Guérin, and wines from one of France’s most exciting wine projects, they can listen to stories about Dean’s work in global security and Joe’s experience of wine across more than thirty countries.   Pittormie Castle, Scotland with The Eden Club VistaJet members will enjoy a stay at the baronial Pittormie Castle, Scotland’s most illustrious private gated estate and home of The Eden Club. Upon landing, guests will be transferred directly by car to their own private residence within the Pittormie grounds, where they can relax in ultimate privacy. Located in the home of golf, there are over 30 courses in the local area, including The Old Course and Kingsbarns, suiting all playing abilities. Members are also invited to enjoy Affinity Membership to The Eden Residence Club, receiving privileged access to a portfolio of private residences and clubs around the world. Membership includes access to world renowned events such as The Masters and Tiger Jam.   South Africa and Antarctica with ROAR AFRICA Private air terminals, planes and exclusive use lodges; a dedicated team of pilots, chefs, rangers and guides to service guests’ every need. This journey allows for a low impact, low touch private adventure in Africa and Antarctica, offering absolute isolation in safe, luxurious, and breath-taking surroundings. In Africa, VistaJet Members will be able to nurture their minds and feed their souls on safari in a 100,000-hectare remote private property, watching elephants as they pass by, and having dinner whilst listening to the roar of lions. Guests will then follow their deep human instinct to explore Whichaway Camp in Antarctica. They can march with the Emperor penguins; hike the Labyrinth of ice tunnels; partake in 4×4 excursions; visit the polar station; and indulge in picnics and drinks at the ice bar, all while taking in the sights and sounds of water, ice and open plains in breath-taking surroundings.   Island Outpost, Jamaica with Entourage Travel Explore Jamaica, straight from where Chris Blackwell founded Island Records and where Ian Fleming wrote many of the James Bond books at his estate, GoldenEye. From their base at Strawberry Hill, VistaJet Members can discover the Blue Mountains, passing secluded waterfalls and quaint churches, and have the opportunity to enjoy private coffee tastings. The journey continues in the privacy of the Fleming Villa at GoldenEye, complete with its own private beach where a host of water sports and activities can be enjoyed, before emerging at leisure to enjoy sunset cocktails at playwright Sir Noël Coward’s nearby residence. Rafting down the tranquil Rio Grande, with a visit to the Blue Lagoon, guests will travel onwards to their own private farm, Pantrepant, to enjoy horseback rides and dips in cool, unexplored watering holes before returning for farm-to-table dining. The journey concludes with a visit to candle-lit caves, private snorkeling and boat trips, and dancing to a live Reggae band at The Caves.   The Town, Colorado with Blue Marble Private A hidden secret nestled in the mountains of Colorado. For the first time, a unique private western town located on 4,500 acres of unparalleled Colorado land, with mountains, plains, rivers and lakes is opening its doors to a select few to experience the American Western Frontier. The Town is a modern cowboy’s dream with authentic yet luxurious accommodation and an unlimited range of summer and winter activities where history, luxury, nature and adventure interlace. Just an hour’s drive, or 20 minutes by helicopter, from Aspen, The Town is home to the most astounding historical collection to ever have been assembled in one place; a homage to the vast story of the American Western Frontier and its outlaw years in the country. For exclusive use only, guests can immerse themselves in the life and stories of the Wild West while enjoying modern day luxuries, including a full-service spa, nightly live entertainment and five-star dining.   Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands with Abercrombie & Kent VistaJet members can explore the natural splendor of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands during a 14-day exclusive trip. Guests will discover spectacular scenery, enjoy epic adventures, learn about the country’s rich heritage and culture, while safely and responsibly immersing themselves in the secluded, natural habitat of aquatic and land creatures. With the new Cotopaxi Sanctuary Lodge as an exclusive base, spectacular volcanoes and the abundant wildlife of the National Park can be explored. Guests can enjoy a hike in the Andes with world record breaking mountain athlete, Karl Egloff, sharing his own story, mountain climbing anecdotes and the best tips to handle hiking at altitude. From here, a privately chartered seven-night private yacht cruise in the Galapagos Islands awaits, including a private audience with a leading scientist from the Galapagos Science Center, San Cristobal Island.   Bombardier Global 7500   The Safe Havens collection will expand to more destinations across the globe during the Summer and Autumn months. For more info or to book a VistaJet World Safe Havens adventure, head over to vistajet.com/privateoffice   Photo credits: VistaJet and Bombardier . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/10/10/romantic-dining-spots-villa-danieli-sheraton-imperial-kl/

Romantic Dining Spots – Villa Danieli @ Sheraton Imperial KL

[Romantic Dining Spots] Continuing with my series of romantic dining spots, this time we decided to try out Villa Danieli at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The Sheraton Imperial KL is a 385 guest room 5-star hotel which is pretty centrally located in KL’s central business district along Jalan Sultan Ismail and if you’re heading over from PJ/ Damansara traffic is not too bad because you’re going against it. Villa Danieli is a free-standing trattoria, styled after a country home, and serves authentic and traditional Italian favourites. This time we headed over to try the 4-course Frescobaldi Italian Wine Dinner conceptualised by Director of Culinary, Restaurant & Bar, Rajesh Kanna featuring some specially prepared Italian dishes paired with a selection of Frescobaldi wines for what we anticipated was going to be a journey of tongue tantalizing flavours and textures! Here’s a little info on the Frescobaldi wines: The Frescobaldi family’s wine making heritage of thirty generations over a period of 700 years has resulted in the production of quality Tuscan wines. With great dedication to their art passed down from generation to generation, the Frescobaldi family believes in absolute respect for tradition coupled with openness to research and experiment, with the objective of creating wines of the highest quality. The start of such passion is said to have begun in the year of 1300, while in Pomino in 1894, the Frescobaldi family built the first Italian gravity-fed wine cellars and distinguished themselves with their specialized vineyards. Today, they have over 1,000 hectares of estate vineyard in 5 states in Tuscany, and a quality distribution network in over 65 countries worldwide. Now on to my experience at Villa Danieli. . On level 5 of the Sheraton Imperial next to the swimming pool is a little Italian villa! My partner in crime for the night was pretty impressed by the romantic ambience. Scored some brownie points for myself ha ha! The restaurant itself has various sections. As you enter the first section you will see is the bar with high-tables which is good for or a drink before/ after your meal The dim lighting and soft piped-in Italian music in the background makes it a really romantic place to bring your date. The dark timber fittings and roof further adds to the warmth of the restaurant. If you’re into wines perhaps you’d like to dine in the “wine cellar” area We opted for the cosy sofa/ table in the main dining area under a high ceiling with murals of people dining. The Italian style columns gave a rustic and classic feel to the place. The restaurant has an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs prepare your food however it was the wood fire oven which is used to bake the pizzas which really caught my eye. Some sparkling water to start the meal Amuse Bouche – Creamed Cod and Cauliflower Mash and Crispy Salted Cod Chips This was paired with the Remole Bianco (Vermentino&Tribiano) 2012 which was light, not too dry, and easy to drink. Antipasto – Rosemary smoked salmon and beetroot mille foille, ash sauce and sour cream (right) and Burrata and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Mousse, Mediterranean Vegetables and Raw Tuna Salsa (left). This was just a festival of flavours! The saltiness of the smoked salmon combined with the sweetness of the beetroot eaten with the sour cream made me just want to continue eating it while the tuna with the creamy burrata was balanced out with the acidity of the tomatoes. This has got to be one of the best antipasto dishes that I’ve ever eaten.Top marks for this! The antipasto was paired with the Pomino Bianco (Chardonnay & Pinot Bianco) 2011 which was slightly dry but also slightly sweet at the same time but was overall not a very strong flavourful wine which was GREAT because it complemented and enhanced the flavours of the antipasto. (A wine expert once taught me that your wines should ideally either complement or contrast with your food. Eg. A spicy dish with a spicy wine will leave your palate feeling overpowered ) Pasta – Potato and Mascarpone Ravioli with Light Pepper Goat Cheese Fondue and Crispy Cured Beef Ham. The pasta is very light in colour so you’ll really need to look at the photo properly to see it but believe me it’s there. The ravioli was rich and creamy due to the cheese while the beef ham added distinct savouriness to the dish. The vege on top (not exactly too sure what it was) added a different dimension in terms of texture and it’s green taste ensured that the richness didn’t make you feel sick. I was quite happy that the portion was just right too. Not too big or small. The pasta was paired with the Tenuta Di castiglioni IGT 2009 which was a slightly spicy and rich wine which was great because it totally balanced out the flavours of the rich, creamy pasta! Main – Pan Roast Lamb Rump with Thyme Pumpkin Puree and Sautéed Asparagus and Citrus Glazed Lamb Jus. To be honest I expected a big chunk of lamb with a bone sticking out so this was rather unexpected. This turned out to be great though as the meat was cooked perfectly and it was tender and flavourful. The pumpkin puree added some sweetness and I moped up every last bit of the delicious lamb jus! This was definitely my favourite dish of the night! The lamb went with the Castelgiocond Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG 2005 which had slightly bolder flavours than the previous wine but not too bold as to overpower the dish. I think the rich, slightly spicy, earthy flavours really complemented the lamb. Main – Cod Medallion Stew with Mediterranean vegetables in tangy tomato sauce, lemon chick pea mousse. We decided to change one of the mains to a fish dish because she wasn’t a big fan of lamb. Of course I just had to try her main and I must say that this is the first time that I’m eating cod with a tomato based sauce (usually it’s a creamy sauce) but it went very well indeed and the fish was very fresh. The chick pea mousse was a welcome surprise as dishes like these are usually atop a bed of mash potato. I thought it was somewhat unconventional but hey it tasted good! Dessert – Small Pears and Custard Cream Sable Pie with Frozen Yogurt Mousse. I’m not much of a dessert person but I enjoyed the frozen yoghurt with the pie. Not too sweet and it was a good balance of flavours (sweet and sour) and richness. The dessert was paired with the Illyquore coffee Liqueur which was served on the rocks. As the dessert was rather sweet and creamy, I took a bite of the dessert then a sip of the coffee liqueur and let the flavours mix in my mouth. A very good pairing indeed! The look of satisfaction on her face! . The Frescobaldi Wine Dinner is priced at RM220.00++ per person, and this special four-course set meal with pairing of Frescobaldi wines is only available for dinner from 4 to 31 October 2013. . Tomcat says – she was very impressed by the ambience and she enjoyed the food and wine pairing especially the antipasto. I thought the price (which is RM510.40 after tax) was acceptable for a 4-course dinner paired with wines (if you’re having a fine dining dinner at other restaurants in KL/ PJ and opened a bottle of wine it would probably come up to about the same anyway). I really enjoyed the lamb. I expected it to be a big chunk of meat like it usually served but having it served thinly sliced made eating it so much easier and I moped up every last bit of the flavourful lamb jus on the plate. The ambience is great for you to bring your date and we saw a few other couples enjoying the food and ambience there as well. There was even a little birthday celebration where the restaurant staff came out to sing a birthday song which was not the traditional “Happy Birthday” song but rather NKOTB’s “Happy Birthday to You” (I’m an early 80’s kid so I recognised it immediately). The girl who was celebrating her birthday looked so happy that even my partner was tearing up seeing her with her boyfriend (I was kinda singing along with the staff). Romantic ambience: 9/10 . Villa Danieli is located at Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. . Telephone: 03-27179900 Email: restaurants.imperial@sheraton.com . Opening Hours: Lunch from 12.00 noon to 2.30pm from Mondays to Fridays Dinner from 6.30pm to 10.30pm from Mondays to Saturdays. The restaurant is closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. . Parking: There is ample parking in the hotel’s basement parking lot. Don’t forget to validate your parking ticket at the reception to get the flat rate. Website: http://www.sheratonimperialkualalumpur.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheraton.imperial.kuala.lumpur . . . Do your part for the community! Save the children! For the past 16 years, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has been working closely with UNICEF to better the lives of mothers and children in poor and developing countries. This year, money raised by the UNICEF charity program strengthens UNICEF’s education programs in the Asia Pacific region. Funds raised help build and improve school facilities, provide quality teacher training in impoverished areas, provide essential school supplies, help children return to schools after emergencies with ‘School-in-a-box’ kits, provide teaching programs for ethnic minority areas and awareness of gender and health issues in schools. UNICEF works to provide all children with access to a quality basic education. In one year alone UNICEF provided more than 12 million children with educational materials. The impact of a child’s education is long-lasting; as children of educated mothers are 50 per cent more likely to survive until the age of five than those whose mothers did not have the chance to go to school. For more information on UNICEF, head over to http://www.unicef.org. Every participating Starwood hotel and resort all around the world will have their own initiatives to help raise fund for UNICEF. This year, Sheraton Imperial KL aims to create awareness of the charity campaign by connecting people with one of the local favourites – Briyani rice. In addition to the hotel’s continuous effort to give back to the community, this charity allows the hotel to educate people on the importance of their contribution to these children in need as well as to help provide better future to them by supporting UNICEF’s education program. Join Starwood hotels and Sheraton Imperial as they aid these children in changing their lives by supporting UNICEF’s education programs this year! You can do this by simple redeeming Sheraton Imperial’s signature briyani rice at only RM15.00nett each at Toastina Café & Bar. You can purchase the UNICEF coupons from the front desk. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/08/30/the-new-mercedes-benz-c-class-is-now-locally-assembled-in-malaysia/

The New Mercedes-Benz C-Class is Now Locally Assembled in Malaysia

Following the successful introduction of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class earlier in the year, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia unveiled the new locally assembled C-Class on 23 August 2022. The C-Class, which is assembled at the brand’s production plant in Pekan, Pahang, continues to represent a more efficient and digital world, and a comfortable future in an era of global change. In Malaysia, the C-Class is the best-selling Mercedes-Benz model series in the recent decade. With its athletic design and class-leading and unique interior amenities, the new C-Class redefines its segment in several ways: rear comfort, interior ambience, and high-quality craftsmanship. “The C-Class has been our bestselling model to date. Since its introduction as the 190, over 10.5 million Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been delivered globally and we are confident this new localized C-Class will be well-accepted by our customers. As part of our continuous commitment to the local market in the luxury automotive sector, the C-Class which debuted earlier this year, is now proudly assembled in our production facility, in Pekan and will further cater to the individual requirements of our esteemed customers. We are excited and confident to continue the success story of our bestselling model in Malaysia.” Sagree Sardien, CEO & President, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia The combination of the C-low Class’s front overhang, long wheelbase, and rear overhang has modernised the vehicle all around and complemented it with sporty design cues. Highlights from the new S-Class are incorporated into the interior, providing it an opulent feel. The radiator grille, a defining feature of the brand, dominates the front. Each model has a central star, however the radiator grilles’ appearance and character vary slightly depending on the model. The exterior of the C 200 has an Avantgarde line design. Highlights include the sophisticated trim strips in high-sheen aluminium and chrome, the radiator grille design with the centre Mercedes star, the lowered comfort suspension, and the 18-inch 5-spoke wheels. The distinguishing feature of the C 300 with AMG Line exterior is the Mercedes-Benz pattern grille with the star design in chrome. The AMG Line’s expressive body style, along with 19-inch AMG multi spoke wheels, gives the outside of the C-Class a sporty, exclusive feel. The panoramic sunroof and LED High Performance headlights with Adaptive High Beam Assist are further notable exterior features. The rear end is typical of a Mercedes-Benz sedan. The tail lamps’ high-quality design captivates with a distinctive day and night look. In the C-Class, the lamps have a two-piece design for the first time, with the light functions separated between the side wall and boot lid lamps. Their carefully designed interiors also demonstrate a high level of detail with the silver grey diamond-pattern trim. “Our customers have always loved the C-Class, because it has always been top with regard to comfort and technology as well as to spaciousness and design. These two new additions to our local production line are testament of our commitment to further expand our local foothold and increased investment in the local automotive sector. The C-Class is truly one-of-a-kind.” Michael Jopp, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia The new C-Class takes the flagship S Class’s innovation to the sport sedan class. The dashboard and central display are six degrees slanted towards the driver, adding to the sportiness. Its high-resolution 12.3″ free-standing driver display distinguishes it from typical cockpits with traditional round dials. The touchscreen appears to hover above the trim expanse. The screen, like the dashboard, is slightly angled towards the driver. A high-quality chrome inlay divides the centre console into a padded back piece for the armrest and a shiny jet black front section. This three-dimensional surface allows the seemingly free-floating core display to rise smoothly and elegantly. The vehicle has the most recent iteration MBUX (NTG 7) with MBUX Navigation Premium. A high-resolution LCD panel is located in the driver’s area. It is free-standing and appears to float in front of the wing profile and trim expanse. This distinguishes the driver display from typical cockpits with round dials. The main touchscreen display is 11.9 inches and is angled slightly in the direction of the driver while the driver display is 12.3 inches. The dashboard is divided into two sections: an upper and lower section with wing-like vents reminiscent of aviation engine nacelles, and an extravagant expanse of trim. Other cabin highlights include the fingerprint scanner, front wireless charging, premium ambient lighting and smartphone integration package. The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is now available as a CKD unit in two variants: C 200 Avantgarde Line, and the C 300 AMG Line at RM 287,888 and RM327,888 respectively, inclusive of 10% Sales Tax (for Peninsular Malaysia). Mercedes-Benz Financial is offering The Step Up Agility Financing Plan starting from RM 2,388 per month for the Mercedes-Benz C 200 and RM 2,888 per month for the Mercedes-Benz C 300. For more info, head over to mb4.me/StepUpAgility  The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class models specs: ModelC 200 Avantgarde LineC 300 AMG LineDisplacement (cc)1,4961,999Rated Output (kW[hp]/rpm)150 [204]/5,800 – 6,100190 [258]/5,800Rated Torque (Nm/rpm)300/1,800 – 4,000400/2,000 – 3,200Rated Output for Electric Motor15 kW15 kWRated Torque for Electric Motor200 Nm200 NmBattery Capacity (Ah)7070Acceleration 0-100 km/h (sec)7.36Top speed (km/h)246250Kerb weight/payload (kg)1,650/ 6151,675/ 605Fuel consumption, combined (l/100km)6.6 – 6.27.0 – 6.6Combined CO₂ emissions (g/km)150 – 141159-150Recommended Retail Price* with 10% Sales TaxRM287,888RM327,888 *On the road without Insurance Photo credits: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/08/19/kl-fashion-week-2015-alia-bastamam/

KL Fashion Week 2015 – Alia Bastamam

[Fashion]   Headed over to Pavilion on 13 August 2015 for the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW) 2015 show featuring Alia Bastamam. I don’t often attend fashion shows because most of the time the outfits are to show off the ingenuity (or sometimes otherwise) of the designer and the outfits will be way too outlandish to be ever worn in public. Fortunately KLFW featured ready-to-wear designs, and Alia Bastamam’s latest collection fused cool, comfortable and up-to-date culture into the glamorous idea of fashion. Her outfits composed of soft movements of luscious fabric, sophisticated sex appeal, sharp cuts and fine tailoring. The Raffles Design School (KL, Malaysia) graduate was inspired by unequivocal beauty at first sight; what looks best on a woman. She was inspired by the classic works of Valentino Garavani and Roy Halston, the edged contemporary tones of Haider Ackermann, as well as the playful nonchalance of Stella McCartney and Alber Elbaz. Her showcase was presented by Volkswagen Malaysia which marks the brand’s entry into the fashion world and fits well with the brand DNA which is known for its timeless design and good performance. “Over the years, KLFW RTW has demonstrated that it is a great platform to feature creativity and ingenuity. We are very happy to be the Official Car Sponsor this year and celebrate our debut, by showcasing our iconic designs with the Beetle, Golf R, and CC,” says Ms. Martina Berg, Marketing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia. “Alia is unquestionably one of the most established local designer, whose commitment to timeless and solid design perfectly complements our own philosophies. We are delighted to be exclusively debuting her Spring/Summer 2016 designs at the Volkswagen Fashion Night with Alia Bastamam runway show,” she adds. “I am honoured to be collaborating with an iconic brand that I personally admire. It is amazing that we share an interesting thread of commonality,” Alia says. For her Spring/Summer 2016 collection, Alia comes back to the lightness that inspired her to start her label when she debuted with a Resort collection in 2011. “Fresh and hopeful,” she says, “are what I want this collection to be. I want to bring back that ease and comfort for my clients because that’s why I came into this industry in the first place – to design and create pieces that I would want to wear myself.” Alia’s designs last through seasons but doesn’t scream for attention; it is a style that subtly garners attention and turns heads. Alia has made it essential that her designs are enduring and never outdated. Celebrities and socialites who have strutted in Alia’s creations include Fashion TV host Hofit Golan, Hollywood actress Serinda Swan, Malaysian actress Lisa Surihani, songstress Yuna, E! News Asia host Marion Counter, Miss Universe Malaysia 2013 Carey Ng, socialite Tengku Chanela Jamidah and Nabila Huda, the daughter of Malaysian rock god, Amy Search.   With Patricia K and Michelle Lee Alia with her models and the Volkswagen Beetle Club There was also a sneak preview of the Beetle Club in Habanero Orange which was displayed at the entrance of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur through the course of KL Fashion Week 2015 And here are the pics from the show. Click on the individual photos to open the larger version.     Website: www.aliabastamam.com For further information about The Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week, head over to www.klfashionweek.com Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/KLfashionweek More info on Volkswagen at http://www.volkswagen.com.my/ . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2011/11/12/launch-of-the-new-motorola-razr/

Launch of the new Motorola RAZR

Preview – Full post to follow soon [Mobile Phone] More photos on the Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers Facebook page (click here). Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/02/21/porsche-presents-the-first-macan-t/

Porsche Presents the First Macan T

[Automotive News] The Porsche Macan T has now been added to the Porsche model range. This is the first four-door sports car that will bear the special designation, which was previously the reserve of the 911 and 718 models. The letter T has represented a unique form of dynamic driving at Porsche since the 1960s. It stands for ‘Touring’ and identifies models that offer an especially authentic driving experience thanks to precise tuning, exclusive equipment and efficient engines. True to the spirit of the Porsche 911 T from 1968, the new Macan T features an incredibly dynamic set-up and a lightweight, two-litre turbo engine, combined with an athletic design and a range of standard equipment that is ideal for a sporty driving style. This concept positions the Macan T between the Macan and the Macan S. The two-litre, four-cylinder turbo engine of the Macan T (fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 10.7 – 10.1 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (WLTP) 242 – 229 g/km, fuel consumption combined (NEDC) 8.8 – 8.7 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (NEDC) 200 g/km) combines great agility, low weight and a compact design to create a package that offers an ideal balance of weight and performance. Compared to the 2.9-litre biturbo V6 engine in the Macan S (fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 11.7 – 11.1 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (WLTP) 265 – 251 g/km, fuel consumption combined (NEDC) 9.9 – 9.8 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (NEDC) 225 – 224 g/km) and GTS models (fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 11.7 – 11.3 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (WLTP) 265 – 255 g/km, fuel consumption combined (NEDC) 9.9 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (NEDC) 225 g/km), the powertrain in the Macan T weighs 58.8 kg less on the front axle. This gives the vehicle an excellent start-off performance and optimum cornering ability. The Macan T has an output of 195 kW (265 PS) and 400 Nm of torque – characteristics that suit the precise vehicle design and deliver an exhilarating drive. As is generally the case with the compact SUV, the engine is coupled with a fast-switching seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive system. A broad spread of torque provides responsive acceleration in all driving situations. When fitted with the standard Sport Chrono Package including the mode switch and Sport Response button on the steering wheel, the Macan T accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 232 km/h. The Macan T is the only Porsche model to feature steel suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard, combined with the body being lowered by 15 mm. The anti-roll bars on the front axle are more rigid and the car’s chassis tuning has been optimised to create the perfect suspension for the vehicle and powertrain, resulting in very responsive steering behaviour and agile handling. The Porsche Traction Management (PTM) has also been adapted to the driving demands of the Macan T and has been specially designed with a rear-wheel bias. Adding adaptive air suspension with PASM and lowering the body by a further 10 mm is also an option – a new feature for Macan models with four-cylinder engines. Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) can also be added: the system has been adapted to the dynamic characteristics of the T model and further sharpens the driving dynamics. Design elements painted in Agate Grey Metallic on the front, flank and rear set the Macan T apart from other models in the series. The exclusive contrast colour can be seen on the painted front trim, exterior mirrors, side blades, roof spoiler and logos on the rear. Sports tailpipes and side window trims in Black (high gloss) are included as standard and the side blades feature the ‘Macan T’ logo in Black. Twenty-inch Macan S wheels, exclusively in dark titanium, come as standard. Customers can choose from a range of 13 plain, metallic and special colours for the exterior. The interior of the Macan T has its own distinct ambience. The standard, eight-way electrically adjustable heated sports seats feature exclusive upholstery based on the Black leather package. The centres of the front seats and the outer rear seats are delivered with the Sport-Tex Stripe pattern and the front headrests each have an embossed Porsche crest. The contrasting colour from the exterior continues inside the vehicle in the form of decorative silver stitching on the seats, headrests and steering wheel. Standard equipment also includes a multifunction GT heated sports steering wheel and the Sport Chrono stopwatch in the upper part of the dashboard. The door entry guards come in black aluminium as standard and feature a Macan T logo. Optional features include the multifunction GT sports steering wheel in Race-Tex with carbon trims and an ioniser. The Macan T also benefits from all of the new elements of the model generation revised in summer 2021, such as the new centre console with its sophisticated glass-look and touch-sensitive surface, as well as the fully networked Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with a 10.9-inch touch screen and online navigation as standard. The Macan T is available to order now. Deliveries in Germany will commence in April 2022. . Photo credits: Porsche Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/12/01/editors-note-december-2020/

Editor’s Note – December 2020

MHB Digital Dining Series: Jarrod & Rawlins Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur Jarrod & Rawlins Damansara Heights is located at: 32, Plaza Damansara, Jalan Medan Setia 2, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: +603-2093 5830 MHB Digital Dining Series: La Risata Ristorante Damansara La Risata Ristorante Damansara is located at: 128, Jalan Kasah, Medan Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2095 9572 Professional Content Creation and Social Media Management MHB Digital (http://mhbdigital.com) manages the social media for a number of top restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya, most notably Chateau Dionne (pictured above) in Damansara Heights, as well as Stammtisch which is also located in Damansara Heights, and the newly opened Novea – Future Tavern in Sunway Damansara. Quality content and professional copy (captions) for your social media pages, coupled with cost-effective social media marketing is key to generating covers in today’s competitive marketplace. A long standing premium Italian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur city centre Stammtisch Kuala Lumpur Christmas 2020 menu at Novea Future Tavern For more info, drop us an email at mhb@mhbdigital.com Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2010/07/18/samsung-mobile-galaxy-s-launch/

Samsung Mobile Galaxy S Launch

Samsung Mobile launched it’s new Android powered smartphone at Rootz, Lot 10 aimed at discerning consumers who want a powerful mobile phone and yet want to express their sense of individualism. According to Samsung Mobile, here are the reasons why the new Galaxy S sets itself apart from the competition: The Samsung Galaxy S will set a new standard for smartphones and deliver a breadth of intelligent, immersive and integrated experiences for users. The Galaxy S is a feature-packed and high-end Android™-powered smartphone for people who want to be more effective, productive and better connected. The Galaxy S features an integrated social networking solution that brings all contacts information, work and personal email or calendar and up to ten social networks together with messaging in real time. With more than 50,000 applications from Android Market™ and Samsung Apps, the Samsung Galaxy S ensures users experience a highly rich smartphone experience. Users will have access to Google™ mobile services, such as Google Search™, Gmail™ and Google Maps™. Here are some of the the Galaxy S’s more prominent features: Android™-powered Galaxy S features Samsung’s dazzlingly bright 4-inch Super AMOLED screen and a 1 GHz application processor that is designed to provide immersive, intelligent and integrated experiences. Galaxy S comes equipped with Swype, the unique text entry service that currently holds the Guinness World Record in March 2010 as the fastest texting tool available. Galaxy S features Samsung’s super-fast TouchWiz 3.0 user-interface (UI), rich augmented reality browser, Layar, and advanced Location Based Service (LBS) capabilities. The mDNIe (mobile Digital Natural Image Engine) boosts a sharper and crisper viewing experience for photos, videos, and e-books. It creates a perfect environment to record, edit and play HD video, to browse the Internet, and to read your favorite e-books. Definitely a viable option for those who would like a smartphone yet doesn’t want to own the fruit phone which every Tom, Dick and Harry seems to be using these days. For more info on the Samsung Galaxy S click HERE. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/10/20/2013-malaysian-moto-gp-sepang-international-circuit/

2013 Malaysian Moto GP @ Sepang International Circuit

[Event] Andy Kho, Veron, June and I headed over to the 2013 Malaysian Moto GP at SIC to watch the race from the Marlboro M.Scape Lounge (you can read about my experience in a separate post) and managed to head over to the mall section of SIC to check out the booths and displays. Here are some photos we took. First up is the sexy Felixia Yeap. . Felixia Yeap And another photo of Felixia Yeap . The race was won by Dani Pedrosa of the Repsol Honda Team, followed by Marc Marquez also from the Repsol Honda Team and in third place Jorge Lorenzo from Yamaha Factory Racing. Photo credits: Andy Kho Photgraphy using the newly launched Leica C, and author’s own Follow me on Instagram @timchew1311 . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2010/08/10/levi%e2%80%99s%c2%ae-curve-id-launch/

Levi’s® Curve ID Launch

[Warning – Long post] This one is primarily for my female friends. Guys – there are photos and a video for you after the jump. Enjoy! Small Bum or Big Bum, Levi’s Has Jeans to Fit You! In an effort to further understand women’s fit frustration, Levi Strauss & Co. conducted a global survey. Revealing survey findings include: • More than half of women (54 percent) try on at least 10 pairs of jeans to find one pair they would buy. • Most women (87 percent) wish they could find jeans that fit better than the ones they own. • Most women (67 percent) believe that jeans are designed for women with “ideal” figures. • Very few women (28 percent) believe that jeans are designed to fit their bodies. The problems women have with common jeans Ok here are the main problems that women face: Muffin Top – The hips fit but the waist is too tight causing the fat to spill out over the top. Not a pretty sight! The Paper Bag – The waist fits but there’s too much room at the hips and legs causing the jeans to be too baggy. Another fashion boo boo to avoid. The Gaping Waist – The hips fit but the waist is too loose causing a big gap at the back revealing everything when you sit down. (Some guys actually like this – they are called perverts) LEVI’S® BRAND INTRODUCES REVOLUTIONARY FIT SYSTEM THAT FOCUSES ON SHAPE, NOT SIZE Levi’s® Curve ID Is Company’s First Global Women’s Denim Line KUALA LUMPUR (August 10, 2010) – Today, Levi’s® – the original, definitive jean brand – announced a new line of custom fit jeans made to fit the curve of a woman’s body. The new line, Levi’s® Curve ID, utilizes a revolutionary fit system based on shape, not size and was created as a result of studying and listening to more than 60,000 women around the world. Through this research, Levi’s® designers created a new approach to measuring a woman’s body and identified three distinct body types that account for 80 percent of women’s shapes universally. The three Levi’s® Curve ID fits are based on these universal body types. “Since we patented our first women’s jeans 75 years ago, no one has changed the formula for finding the perfect fit,” said You Nguyen, senior vice president of Merchandising and Design for the Levi’s brand. “Our revolutionary approach looks beyond waist size to address the true curves of a woman’s entire body. We’ve created three custom fits that address a range of body shapes, allowing women to find their perfect fit and ultimately helping them feel confident and sexy in their jeans.” Unlike other denim brands, Levi’s® Curve ID utilizes a unique, customized fit system focusing on a woman’s shape and proportions, not her size. The designers studied the bodies of more than 60,000 women to develop three custom fits based on the difference between the measurement of a woman’s hip and seat – the greater the difference, the more curvy the body – and include: The Slight Curve Slight Curve – designed to celebrate straight figures For you who don't have JLO hips/ bum Slight Curve is designed to define a woman’s waist, while accentuating her curves. If jeans fit in the hips and thighs but are too tight in the waist, a woman should try the Slight Curve. The Demi Curve Demi Curve – designed to fit even proportions For those of you who have average hips/ bum Demi Curve is designed to flatter a woman’s waist, while smoothing her shape. If jeans usually fit in the waist, but don’t flatter the figure, a woman should try the Demi Curve. The Bold Curve Bold Curve – designed to honor genuine curves For those of you with JLO hips and bums! Yeah baby! Bold Curve is designed to hug the waist, without gapping or pulling. If jeans fit in the hips and thighs, but gap in the back, a woman should try the Bold Curve. A closeup view of the new Curve ID A view of the nice round bum The view from the front Levi’s® Curve ID fits will begin rolling out in select Levi’s® retail store locations in the U.S. and retail locations in Asia and Europe throughout summer / fall 2010. Each store will have trained fit experts to measure women, identify her Levi’s® Curve ID and help her find the best fitting jeans for her body type and style preference. A global digital fitting room will launch on Levi.com where women will be able to find their Levi’s® Curve ID, explore product demos and learn more about our fit science. To visit the Malaysian Levi’s website click this – www.levi.com.my There you have it! I look forward to seeing girls wearing these new jeans that flaunt their assets. If you’d like to see photos from the launch CLICK HERE. Here’s your reward for reading this incredibly long post – a photo of my event buddies! Guys – the lovely Sarah Lian. Girls – the not too bad looking Henry Golding. With Sarah and Henry Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/01/22/mitsubishi-triton-phantom-edition-2016/

Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Edition (2016)

[Automobile News]   Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, introduced the limited edition Triton Phantom in Malaysia on 7 January 2016. The Triton Phantom is limited to 200 units, and is based on the Triton VGT Adventure variant created in all-black with accessories to match its tough yet sinister look. The exterior of the Triton Phantom is accentuated by 17 inch matte black alloy rims and matte black grille for an even more aggressive stance. This tougher outlook is complimented by sports bar with full box and matte black rear bumper, a front bumper extender, Xenon HID Headlamps with Day Time Running (DRL) Lights and special Phantom body stickers and decals. Interior wise, there are new Phantom black leather seats with standard equipment that includes the push start button, keyless operation, tilt and telescopic steering and paddle shifters for manual control of the automatic transmission. Other features in the Triton Phantom include 4WD selector, touch screen audio system with reverse camera, auto headlamps and wipers, and dual zone climate control.      The Triton Phantom comes with an improved and proven 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine with an intercooled Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) which offers high performance with high fuel economy. This technologically-advanced Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) 16-valve turbodiesel engine with a common-rail system now produces 178 PS of power at 4,000 rpm and 400 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm (50 Nm more torque than before) to give the Triton even stronger performance in any conditions. The Triton Phantom comes with a turning radius of 5.9 metres. An efficient 5-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode is mated to Mitsubishi’s Easy Select 4WD system which distributes power to the front and rear axles. The Easy Select 4WD system has been continuously improved over two decades and is a robust drivetrain able to handle high torque levels. Safety wise, the all-new Triton has Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction which uses high tensile steel that effectively absorbs and disperses crash energy from all directions while also significantly reducing overall weight. Impact bars has been added within the side doors for additional protection against side collisions. Other safety features that are standard across the range include dual SRS airbags, a collapsible steering column and anti-intrusion brake pedal, which is made to fold away during an accident. Anti-lock braking (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is also available. EBD reduces the possibility of skidding when the rear end is light and the wheels may lock up on slippery conditions while braking.     The Triton Phantom is priced at RM115,680.76*, and comes with two (2) years of free maintenance with RM2,000 cash rebates OR free labour with RM4,000 cash rebates. The Triton Phantom also comes with a factory warranty of 3 years or the first 100,000 km.     Imported as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) vehicle from Mitsubishi Motors’ global production hub in Thailand, the all-new Triton is also available in five other variants for the Malaysian market. Here are the prices for the all-new Triton in Peninsular Malaysia: No Variant On-The-Road Price without insurance, inclusive of GST Available Colours 1 Triton VGT Adventure Automatic 110,218.56 Earth Green, Pearl White, Shadow Black, Red Solid 2 Triton VGT Automatic 98,549.28 Sterling Silver, Pearl White, Shadow Black 3 Triton VGT Manual 92,114.64 4 Triton Manual 83,162.68 Sterling Silver, White Solid 5 Triton Quest (4×2) 68,576.08   Mitsubishi has also come up with this video of Malaysian drifter Leona Chin “pranking some unsuspecting customers” by taking them out in it then drifting and scaring the hell out of them. However I don’t quite believe that the “customers” are actually customers as Maxman TV has a reputation for creating viral videos that are not quite reality TV (remember the video of a girl beating up the “robbers” who tried to enter her house?).     Cool drift moves though.     For further information, head over to www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my or call the Mitsubishi Motors Customer Careline at 1800 18 6611 (9 am – 5 pm, Mondays to Fridays excluding public holidays). Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2011/02/28/wta-malaysian-open-2011/

WTA Malaysian Tennis Open 2011 – Kronenbourg Night 280211

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

https://timchew.net/2017/07/31/bell-ross-br-x2-tourbillon-micro-rotor-preview-in-kuala-lumpur/

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

[Luxury Fashion]   Bell & Ross previewed its latest timepiece, the next generation – BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro Rotor at a cocktail and party at the new Element Hotel Kuala Lumpur by Westin on 27 July 2017. The event was an exclusive affair for VIPs, celebrities and media, and was held on Level 39, which offered guests amazing views of the KL skyline.  Guests got a sneak peak of the next generation BR-X2’s automatic mechanical movement  called the caliber BR380 which is developed and manufactured to be square and thin. The BR-X2 is not housed in a traditional watch case, but rather is framed inside a solid plate stainless steel holder as thin as the movement itself. The case is 42.5 mm in diameter and made with satin-polished steel, and is water-resistant up to 50 meters. A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating lies atop the dial while a grey alligator strap completes the piece. The BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro-Rotor is priced at RM284,000 and is a limited edition offering of just 99 pieces. For more info on the BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro-Rotor, head over to https://www.bellross.com/mods/watches/BR-X2-tourbillon-micro-rotor/   The setup and decor of preview event on Level 39 of the new hotel mimicked BR-X2’s transparent look, complete with a custom-built see through stage over the pool where models sashayed on it showcasing the new timepiece. BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro Rotor MC of the event Hannah Lo DJ Irama kept the guests entertained The watch show by the models The models with Tong Chee Wei and Tay Liam Khoon Among the celebrities present were Frederick Lee, Lynn Lim, Trisha Kuck, Venice Min, and Coby Chong Popular Instagrammer and model Venice Min with a Bell & Ross timepiece Among the guests at the cocktail were the elite of society and numerous socialites. Pictured above are Chery Wong, Tong Chee Wei, Jeong Hwa Jang, Jennifer Jung, Kent Ong, and Michelle Tham.   Bell & Ross also announced its month-long lifestyle pop-up store in collaboration with Cortina Watch, from 1 to 31 August 2017 on Level 1, Suria KLCC. The pop-up store will see an exhibition showcasing BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro Rotor and the full collection of the BR-X1. The BR-X1 is a high-tech chronograph with a sporty design, which is as robust as it is sophisticated, making it a revolutionary a top-of-the-range contemporary sports watch which the brand regards as the “Ultimate Utility Watch”.     Photos courtesy of Bell & Ross Malaysia. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/01/20/burberry-menswear-january-2016-show/

Burberry Menswear January 2016 Show

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

https://timchew.net/2018/06/21/versace-mens-spring-summer-2019-collection-show-at-via-gesu-milan-italy/

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

[Luxury Fashion]   “Inspiration” is a word of yesterday, because is refers to the past as what is relevant today won’t be tomorrow. The Versace Men’s Spring Summer 2019 collection was born from the different emotions felt in different moments during the creation process. The Spring Summer collection plays with the perception of sensuality in a masculine context, so relevant that it can’t help but be gossiped about, from the tabloids to the streets. High on life, high on the very meaning of being Versace. The Versace man is not ordinary, but rather, he is looked at, talked about, and always turning heads. He expresses himself through his clothes without holding back, his movement always effortlessly powerful, while pushing every boundary and never letting go of his sense of humour.     “What I put on the runway was inspired by many different kinds of men: the street-style star, the high fashion man, the boardroom executive. I conceived these clothes thinking that each of them could find something that perfectly fits his personal style. These are men who do not care about the rules and that is exactly what I love: they have an opinion and make their own style choices.” Donatella Versace   Nothing short of noticeable, the Versace man is the centre of all the attention. With the new collection, the Versace man brings sexy back to the office, out on the town, and back to his place. The clothes bring out his confidence and masculinity like never before. The business man meets his inner rock star; the street style star meets the skater guy –he is sensual, manly, contemporary, and ready to take risks that get people talking. A unique play on contrasts that defines him. He is at ease with the ironic mix of lace, sheer, neon and floral print in a modern, masculine context. Traditional sartorial jackets are matched with baggy denim pants. The Tabloid print is a reminder of the celebrity culture we live in. The Icon shoulder bag is taken from the woman’s wardrobe and worn with printed silk pyjamas, faux python overcoats and black or white looks. Sandals, classic shoes with iconic Medusa Head details, bucket hats and a new edition of the Chain Reaction sneaker stand out as the season’s accessories of choice. Versace also showcased their Women’s Capsule during the show.     The Versace boutiques in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia are located at: Lot G29 & G30, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur Telephone: +603 2162 0109   Lot 2.25 & 3.2, Level 2 & 3, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur Telephone: +603 2141 0677   More info at http://www.versace.com/   Visuals courtesy of Versace Malaysia.       Advertisement – Buy Versace VE2150Q – 100287 Gold/Black Aviator Sunglasses 62mm Advertisement – Buy Versace Eros Eau de Toilette Spray for Men, 3.4 Fluid Ounce Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/08/28/new-denim-styles-at-hm-september-2015/

New Denim Styles at H&M – September 2015

[Fashion]   H&M will introduce 16 new denim styles made using recycled cotton from textiles collected in the Garment Collecting initiative in H&M stores in September 2015. The pieces for men, women and kids, are the latest steps toward H&M’s goal towards preserving the environment by creating a closed loop for fashion. “Creating a closed loop for textiles, in which unwanted clothes can be recycled into new ones, will not only minimize textile waste, but also significantly reduce the need for virgin resources as well as other impacts fashion has on our planet,“ says Karl-Johan Persson, CEO of H&M. The new denim pieces are made from recycled cotton and organic cotton. For women there are three (3) styles of jeans, from skinny to distressed ‘girlfriend’ jeans, plus a denim jacket, flared dungarees and a denim jumpsuit. For men, there is a zip-up denim jacket, alongside two distressed slim leg styles, and a pair of joggers in coated denim. For kids, there is a zip-up hoodie with cute animal ears, along with stretch jeans sequined at the knee, or a street style hooded shirt, with distressed jeans. With environmental preservation in mind, H&M wants to create a closed loop for its textiles, in which the fabrics from unwanted clothes can be recycled into new ones. The aim is to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry, by limiting waste that goes to landfill and saving on natural resources used in the production of fabric. Since 2013, H&M customers worldwide have been able to bring unwanted clothes from any brand into its stores as part of its Garment Collecting Initiative. This initiative has garnered positive response with over 18,000 tonnes collected globally. Currently H&M is able to use 20% recycled cotton from collected clothes, and is investing in new technology to increase this share without losing quality. H&M has a target to increase the number of garments made with at least 20% recycled fabric by 300% compared to 2014. The products will be available in all stores worldwide, as well as online from September 2015. More info at www.hm.com   Click on the individual photos to open a larger version. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/01/01/editors-note-january-2017/

Editor’s Note – January 2017

[Editor’s Note] First and foremost, I would like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year and I’ve like to wish that you have amazing success and love in 2017! As usual, there were parties galore around the Klang Valley to close off year and celebrate the start of a new one.   View this post on Instagram Happy New Years! Bye 2016 Hello 2017 ❤️ best fireworks display in Malaysia I've seen ever and upclose! A post shared by 𝓢𝓉ℯ𝓅𝒽𝒶𝓃𝒾ℯ 𝓛. (@stephiielim) on Dec 31, 2016 at 11:33am PST Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers’ Stephanie Lim got a great view of the fireworks at KLCC!   https://www.instagram.com/p/BOtbyKGAm3u/ This was a nice video of the fireworks at Desa Park City.   View this post on Instagram #newyear #happynewyear2017 #2017 #fireworks #celebration #thecurvedamansara #newyear2017 A post shared by Joleen Tan (@jol_sy) on Dec 31, 2016 at 9:17am PST A good shot of the fireworks over at The Curve in Mutiara Damansara.   I like how a lot of people have been using the best nine app to create a little collage of their top liked Instagram posts this year. Here’s mine. View this post on Instagram #2016bestnine of 2016 A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 31, 2016 at 7:07pm PST   Although the economy was not pretty good in 2016 and thus many of my clients cut their advertising and promotion budget, I thank God for giving me lots of exclusive and memorable experiences which were hosted by my generous clients throughout the year. Below are a couple of my favourite moments. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 31, 2016 at 12:39am PST Ended the year with her.   View this post on Instagram MHB Christmas party! Thanks to @tradershotelkl for hosting and @kerastase_official and @calvinklein for the presents! #mhbchristmasparty A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 24, 2016 at 2:37am PST Last Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers event of the year which was our Christmas party at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur.   View this post on Instagram Rogue One: A Star Wars Story premier tonight! #rogueone #starwars #starwarsrogueone #jedi A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 14, 2016 at 10:03am PST Attending the premier of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story which I thought was one of the best Star Wars movies, and a very inspiring one too!   Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers 5th Anniversary high tea at EGG Sunway   View this post on Instagram A very memorable birthday indeed! Celebrating with MHB's two other November babies namely @choomeisze and @mskelly_lovelife Many thanks to @anterestaurant at 1 Utama Shopping Centre for hosting our dinner. Photo by @andykho A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Nov 17, 2016 at 3:21am PST Birthday dinner with my bloggers.   View this post on Instagram Malaysia International Gastronomy Festival 2016 main course at Senja, Saujana Resort. #Risotto al Nero di sepia con #Medaglione di #Cappesanta e #Bottarga “Carnaroli” Squid Ink #Risotto with Hokkaido #Scallops Medallion and “Bottarga” #migf #migf2016 A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Nov 4, 2016 at 3:59am PDT Had some really awesome food during the Malaysia International Gastronomy Festival (MIGF) 2016 dinners this year like this awesome main at Senja in Saujana Hotel & Resort.   View this post on Instagram Oyster & Champagne Masterclass dinner hosted by Edward Gallagher from Ireland, grower of Irish Premium oysters and the best-selling Gallagher Special oysters, Laurent Robert from France, award winning boutique champagne maker, and Josh Green, KL’s very own resident ‘Oyster Man’. #oyster #champagne A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on May 27, 2016 at 7:56am PDT Memorable outings with some close friends.   View this post on Instagram Mini #chocolate #brownie topped with ice cream and sprinkled with salted #popcorn Paired with The Glenlivet 15. #glenlivetguardians #glenlivet15 #whisky #singlemaltwhisky #scotchwhisky #glenlivet A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Aug 26, 2016 at 9:50pm PDT Got invited to many experiential Glenlivet Guardians events throughout the year and discovered that my favourite is The Glenlivet 15!   View this post on Instagram At the Breitling SEA launch of the 2016 novelties. #breitling A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on May 12, 2016 at 6:35am PDT Dressed up not for Halloween but for a Breitling event at KLCC.   View this post on Instagram Richard Clayderman featuring the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) String Ensemble concert at Istana Budaya last night. A really wonderful performance by a tremendously talented pianist! Photo shot with the Fujifilm X-T10 #nofilter #fujifilmxt10 #fujifilm_xseries #fujifilm #richardclayderman #istanabudaya #kualalumpur A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Apr 1, 2016 at 3:21am PDT Got to watch Richard Clayderman perform live at Istana Budaya.   View this post on Instagram #throwback to Toast The Macallan at The Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur recently. Photo by @andykho for Malaysia's Hottest Bloggers and timchew.net #toastthemacallan #toastthemacallanmy #ritzcarltonkl #macallan A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Oct 8, 2016 at 10:00pm PDT Attended Toast The Macallan twice! Once with my MHB members.   View this post on Instagram Japanese Kaiseki dinner! #kaiseki #japanesefood #sashimi A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Apr 3, 2016 at 3:54am PDT Delicious kaiseki Japanese dinner at Yamaguchi Fish Market!   View this post on Instagram Great backdrop for photos – the KL skyline from Mantra Bar in Bangsar Village 2 – the newest rooftop bar in KL! Photo shot with the Fujifilm X-T10. #fujifilmmy #fujifilmxt10 #fujifilmxseries #mantrabarkl #nofilter #fujifilm #rooftopbar A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Apr 4, 2016 at 6:55am PDT Had some awesome company!   View this post on Instagram #throwback to our awesome Malaysia International Gastronomy Festival 2016 dinner at Savini #Ristorante #Italian at The International, Kuala Lumpur. #migf #migf2016 A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Nov 17, 2016 at 6:42am PST Had some very memorable experiences and outings with her.   However sadly as this is Malaysia, there will also be some stupid issue made out of nothing and when I say nothing I mean on the part of this very established fast food chain for which they had to apologise to customers. Ladies and gentleman, I present you – the first stupid issue of 2017!   The apology above was published on McDonald’s Malaysia’s Facebook page after an image of a notice of McDonald’s new “halal only cake policy” went viral and caused a public outcry with many non-Muslims feeling rather offended by it. Read more here – https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/367811 Looking at the issue in an objective manner, we have to ask – what is the basis for such a notice by McDonald’s in the first place? Have droves of parents been bringing alcoholic (which would be pretty irresponsible) or pork laden cakes into McDonald’s during children’s birthday parties? Or is this action done under pressure by JAKIM – the exalted “guardians” of the Islamic faith in Malaysia. Or is this by some overzealous employee in their “Halal compliance” department? In recent time, our multi-racial and multi-religious country has been overrun by overzealous religious authorities and zealots who feel the need to incite religious and racial hatred to further some political agenda, undeniably putting the country on course to becoming part of the so-called “Islamic State caliphate”. We must unequivocally resist such efforts which promote religious extremism and safeguard the rights of all citizens that is enshrined in the country’s constitution. Failure to oppose them will undoubtedly present the extremist with an opportunity to influence the policy of the country, leading it down a slippery slope toward a fundamentalist and extremist brand of Islam that will be detrimental to the country’s progression towards a modern, efficient and enlightened state. Wake up Malaysians and fight for proper governance in our country!   BRYAN ADAMS ‘THE GET UP TOUR’  Live in Kuala Lumpur 2017   Here’s some good news to start off 2017! The Bryan Adams ‘The Get Up Tour’ Live in Kuala Lumpur will be held on the 21 January 2017 at 8.30pm at Malawati Indoor Stadium, Shah Alam. The event will be ticketed at RM688 (VIP), RM488 (Diamond), RM388 (Platinum), RM288 (Gold), RM188 (Silver), RM128 (Bronze-1) and RM98 (Bronze-2) per person. 80’s babies like myself will definitely be thrilled to see him play his greatest hits live like Everything I Do, Heaven, Please Forgive Me, Have You Really Loved a Woman and more! Tickets are currently on sale via Ticketpro Malaysia at www.ticketpro.com.my or call +603 7880 7999 Bryan Adams is set to release his thirteenth studio album, Get Up (UMe) produced by famed ELO frontman Jeff Lynne and co-written with his long-time collaborator Jim Vallance, the album features nine new songs and four acoustic versions. Get Up is available for pre-order now via all digital partners and includes instant-grat track “You Belong To Me” The album’s lead single, “Brand New Day” is available now and is supported by the official music video directed by Adams and featuring BAFTA Award-winning actress, Helena Bonham Carter along with musician Theo Hutchcraft from acclaimed synth-pop duo Hurts. As Canada’s best-known ambassador, Adams has spent the last three decades making music history. He has sold upward of 65 million records, toured six continents and achieved #1 status in over 40 countries around the world. He has been awarded the Order of Canada, has been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and has a Star on Canada’s Walk of Fame. Adams has also been nominated for — and won —several Academy Awards, Golden Globes and Grammy Awards. He has a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has been inducted into Wembley’s Square of Fame. http://WWW.BRYANADAMS.COM / http://www.twitter.com/BryanAdams / http://www.facebook.com/BryanAdams   For further information on ‘Bryan Adams : THE GET UP TOUR’, head over to: Website: http://www.midaspromotions.com Facebook : Fat Boys Malaysia Twitter : @FatBoysMalaysia Instagram : Fat Boys Malaysia   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2012/10/31/nissan-almera-launched-in-malaysia/

Nissan Almera Launched in Malaysia

[Automobile] Edaran Tan Chong Motors (ETCM) launched their long awaited B-segment model the Nissan Almera at the One World Hotel in Petaling Jaya on 30 October 2012. Nissan ALMERA has been enjoying brisk sales particularly in US, Thailand and China, and has sold more than 500,000 units worldwide and as such ETCM is confident that Nissan’s Best Selling Global Sedan will also repeat this success in Malaysia. .First up of course was the mandatory round of speeches by ETCM’s big guns and the President of Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co. Ltd Dato’ Tan Heng Chew, the Executive Deputy Chairman & Group Managing Director of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad said in his opening address, “Tan Chong has truly been part of Malaysia’s nation building journey since Independence. From the generation of Sunny, came the time of Sentra and now, we are continuing our legacy with an all-new B segment sedan, ALMERA. This latest model showcases our continued commitment to providing affordable car ownership to Malaysians from all walks of life.” . The Executive Director of ETCM, Dato’ Dr Ang Bon Beng said in addition to Nissan’s great legacy and reputation for exceptional product quality and reliability, “Consumers will be pleasantly surprised and pleased with the upscale design, features and comfort that will give more style, technology and space. Nissan ALMERA is not only stylishly designed but what really sets it apart from the competitors are the premium features it has such as best-in-class legroom and boot space and premium technologies,” explained Dato’ Dr Ang. He added that apart from Nissan ALMERA’s attractive price points, its economical fuel consumption, 10,000km service intervals and affordable, easily attainable spare parts will make the ALMERA’s total ownership cost very appealing. . Mr. Takayuki Kimura, the President of Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co. Ltd, attributed Nissan’s success to the commitment from valuable partners such as ETCM. “Tan Chong is an extremely important and valuable partner to our business, and has been instrumental to Nissan’s growth in this region. We are grateful to their endless pursuit for superior service and customer’s satisfaction. This year, thanks to their commitment to deliver excellent customer service, Nissan was ranked No. 1 in the J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2012 Malaysia Sales Satisfaction Index Study. We have no doubt that Nissan ALMERA will mark another great milestone in Nissan’s 55 years of strong partnership with Tan Chong,” commended Mr. Kimura. . I think the next two photos will being back some memories for some of you. I don’t know where Nissan managed to find the old cars in such good condition but they certainly reminded me of my childhood years as I’ve sat in some of these which were driven by my friends’ parents. . The Almera has evolved from a long line of famous Nissan cars such as the Sunny 120Y and Sentra. Talk about heritage! Recognize the cars? . Then the moment of truth – the unveiling of the new Nissan Almera! . . The Nissan Almera in Sapphire Black. The car comes in four (4) other colours namely Bronze Gold, Twilight Grey, Tungsten Silver and Brilliant White. Some interesting facts about the Nissan Almera Quite reasonably priced as you will see below. You can opt to add on the IMPUL kit for an additional fee of course. The boot can fit 4 golf bags! Here’s a look at the headlights, grill and engine bay A closer look at the engine bay. The engine, radiator and other parts in the bay have been designed in a compact manner to ensure passengers get the maximum room possible in the cabin. The interior of the cabin. This is the VL version which has all the premium specs. Check out the cool and sporty meter panel. .   Already open for bookings, the all-new Nissan ALMERA truly lives up to its promise of surprisingly more. Even with upscale technology features and spaciousness that are usually found in more premium vehicles, Nissan ALMERA is priced competitively from RM66,800.00 in line with Tan Chong’s commitment to providing affordable car ownership to Malaysians. The on-the-road price (inclusive of insurance, road tax, registration fee and ownership claim fee) for Peninsular Malaysia will be as follows: Grade Variant Price (RM) E 1.5 M/T 66,800.00 1.5 A/T 69,800.00 V 1.5 A/T 76,800.00 VL 1.5 A/T 79,800.00 . The Nissan ALMERA is differentiated by the standard specification E, well equipped V & full specification VL. For more personalisation, customers can opt for the exclusive ALMERA Optional Accessories. Premium accessories include the on board multimedia navigation console (with a rear view, DVD player, iPod connectivity, USB and Bluetooth capabilities), LED kicking plate and luxurious leather seats. Sport accessories by IMPUL Motor Racing Development, which have been tailored specifically to suit Malaysian roads, are also available. The complete Tuned by IMPUL package is available for all grades for an additional RM9,500.00. All models come with a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first). For more information, contact ETCM’s Customer Service Hotline (toll free): 1800-88-8368 or visit their website at www.nissan.com.my . More photos at https://www.facebook.com/myhotbloggers Subscribe to my public updates at https://www.facebook.com/timchewkc ‘Like’ my Facebook page to view loads of content – https://www.facebook.com/timchew1311 Photo credits: ETCM and author’s own . The very sweet Charlie in the Nissan Almera! Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/06/28/dior-homme-summer-2017-collection/

Dior Homme Summer 2017 Collection

[Luxury Fashion]   The Dior Homme collection for Summer 2017 fashion show was designed by Kris Van Assche, and drove an explicit evolution, channeling the energy of Haçienda youth through the industrial landscape of a utopian fun fair. Order and disorder ran parallel narratives throughout, as flashbacks to the New Wave and a sportif élan were intertwined with the militant crescendo of refined athletic tailoring. “This season there is a sense of collective consciousness to the collection – a remix of shared boyhood memories,” said Kris Van Assche. “I am interested in a synthesis of generations and filtering subcultures through my own lens to tell a new story.” Dior describes the collection as progressive silhouette warping perceptions of formality; industrial embellishments converge with the innate savoir-faire of the Dior Homme ateliers as eyelets, sports lacing, staples, and screen-printed suiting wools disrupt any expectations of the two-piece suit. Subverting the sense of classical rigor, bared arms and tonal knitwear illicit moments of summer skin, as articulated harnesses both restrict and suspend. Musings on a garment’s memory (items found, worn, and destroyed) are explored through artisanal textiles: pinstripes fray, knits bear scars, houndstooth blurs, and Toru Kamei’s arcane floral paintings appear as patched botanical insignias. Migrating across hybrid pieces, a multiplicity of uniform and sportswear elements creates a call-and-repeat of polished utility and tempered rebellion.   “Fun Fair” was the theme of the show and what better epitomises that than a “roller coaster” winding its way through the runway!   The Dior Homme Kuala Lumpur boutique is located at: 129 & 130, 1st Floor, Suria KLCC, Jalan P Ramlee, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Tel (603) 2161 0010 More info at www.dior.com Images courtesy of Dior Malaysia. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/01/03/news-january-2022/

News – January 2022

[News] Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kuala Lumpur 2021   The much-anticipated Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kuala Lumpur (MBFWKL) 2021 returned in December 2021 with the biggest names in the local, regional, and international fashion industry displaying their latest contemporary designs. MBFWKL continues to serve as a platform for upcoming and seasoned designers in the local fashion industry to showcase their collections and brand-characterising inspirations.   “At Mercedes-Benz, the company expresses modern luxury in the 21st Century with an acute focus on creating ‘sensual purity’ designs through traditional craftsmanship and innovative technology to create authentic and emotional experiences. Similarly, we aim to push boundaries in other areas befitting to provide a holistic lifestyle experience to our customers who understand and appreciate luxury in all forms, fashion included. Through MBFWKL, the event also highlights Fashion Futures, a design competition that aims to promote and support budding talent among young designers in the industry. Through the Fashion Futures Initiative, Mercedes-Benz endeavours to create the opportunity to nurture these innovative and entrepreneurial talents by providing with them a platform to catapult their careers further in the fashion industry.” Ms. Sagree Sardien, President and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia “As an automotive pioneer brand, we create innovative and desirable cars. For that, design plays a central role in the process of evolution and is deeply rooted in our core. Every Mercedes-Benz you see on the road is designed with Sensual Purity at its core. It is the perfect combination of modern luxury and driving exhilaration. It is amazing to see the inspiration these designers draw from our cars and elevate it through their collection showcase.”Mr. Michael Jopp, VP Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia  The three-day fashion event was held at Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Center (KLPac) in the heart of the city and attended by over 1,000 guests ranging from local designers, celebrities and socialites, fashion muses, key opinion leaders, alongside fashion-forward customers and fans of Mercedes-Benz. This industry-leading event affirms how trendsetting design, pioneering innovations and modern luxury are all core principles of Mercedes-Benz. The creativity, craftsmanship and technical expertise form the link between the class-leading cars and the cutting-edge world of fashion which also extends to Mercedes-Benz’s global commitment to fashion which spans over 20 years and has grown to reach over 60 platforms in over 45 countries. Mercedes-Benz also presented its third MBFWKL Fashion Futures Design Competition on the final night, a new, independent competition that will be held yearly as a key component of the show. Targeting Malaysian designers with 6 months to 4 years of work experience in the fashion industry, five finalists are required to produce 4 sets of original Ready-to-Wear looks based on a specific theme provided. These looks will be judged at the Fashion Futures runway show, with an eventual winner selected based on a tabulation of scores from the judges. The winner of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week KL 2018 Fashion Futures design competition will be sent for an all-expenses-paid trip to attend an international Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week event. Besides being able to mingle with renowned international designers, the winner will also be able to gain exposure and insights into the fashion industry. Mercedes-Benz has an integrated approach when it comes to design as an essential basis to showcase both the product and brand to perfection to create an elevated experience for customers. The design philosophy of Sensual Purity since 2009 has continuously evolved and encapsulates an essential aspect of product designs – the bipolarity of intelligence and emotion. It is the transformation of traditional luxury to modern age interpretations, making it fascinating, tangible and above all, desirable. The design DNA has evolved over the years to accentuate individuality and to arouse desire. This is paired with innovation and technology to create an overall integrated experience for the customer. The Mercedes-Benz design ethos is authenticity, emotional and supreme aesthetics that has pushed design forward creativity for a future of progressive luxury. Committed to the sustainable future of luxury design, Mercedes-Benz proactively works to future-proof the responsible growth of its fashion partnerships. Highlighting best practices and aligning itself with creatives that reflect and champion values such as outstanding and intuitive design, creativity and innovation. Through its Mercedes-Benz Fashion programmes and creative collaborations, the automobile manufacturer has supported nearly 170 designers in over 30 platforms around the world, including Milan, London, New York, Beijing, Australia, Prague, Istanbul, Berlin and Accra, leading a responsible future in fashion. Lending depth and variety to MBFWKL 2021 are brand partners from across the spectrum of lifestyle and experiential products and services such as The Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur, TRESemme, Kimarie Hairdressing, Wycon Cosmetics, Monkey 47, Carlsberg and 1664 Rose. For more information on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kuala Lumpur 2021, visit www.mbfw-kl.com/ Coming Together for a Smooth Year & Longevity After a very turbulent Year of the Ox with lots of headwinds, challenges, and even natural disasters here in Malaysia, Carlsberg Malaysia wishes all a Smoother Year and Longevity this Chinese New Year, welcoming the Year of the Tiger with limited edition cans, collectibles and up to RM888 Ang Pau in its ‘Coming Together for a Smoother Year’ 2022 Chinese New Year (CNY) campaign. Aspiring to be Probably The Best Beer, Carlsberg is ushering in the annual festival with limited-edition CNY cans that accentuates the essence of ‘smoothness’ and ‘longevity’. True to the brand’s CNY tradition, the creative concept behind the specially designed Carlsberg Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg Smooth Draught cans combines the modern identity of Carlsberg with traditional Chinese auspicious icons to wish beer consumers a year of smoothness, longevity, and prosperity. Complementing the Carlsberg Danish Pilsner’s iconic green can is the Chinese character ‘Fu’ [福] emboldened in gold against a rich red background to celebrate wellbeing and abundance which transcends a healthy, happy and auspicious life. Wrapped around the silver and white Carlsberg Smooth Draught can on the other hand is a symbol of smoothness in the form of ancient Chinese Treasure ships, portraying smooth sailing and prosperous times ahead.  The prominence of the colour red and gold on both the limited-edition cans and 24-can festive packaging magnify the festive spirit and exudes auspiciousness, which is Carlsberg’s way of wishing everyone a year of smoothness and longevity. Both the limited-edition cans were designed in collaboration with the World’s No.1 expert in Feng Shui and Chinese Metaphysics, Dato’ Joey Yap. His signature is featured across all Carlsberg’s CNY festive packaging whilst his readings on each Zodiac fortune are also featured exclusively on Carlsberg’s playing cards. “As we usher in the new year, we want to uplift spirits and encourage all our consumers to look forward with optimism and positivity. It’s been a while since we’ve been able to meet-up, catch-up and look ahead with joy and cheer. We hope that our campaign themed ‘Coming together for a smoother year’ encourages consumers to stay positive in embracing a smooth sailing year ahead and a long and healthy life. Together we will prosper and emerge stronger.” Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia From 27 December 2021 until 6 February 2022, consumers stocking up for the coming CNY celebrations will enjoy more rewards when buying their Carlsberg products at participating outlets, including premium Neoflam hotpot casserole sets, elegant tiffin carriers, special Dato’ Joey Yap Edition playing cards, novel Neoflam glass container sets and up to RM888 in Ang Pau (cash) or in e-Wallet credit. Shoppers who purchase any two (2) cartons of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner or Carlsberg Smooth Draught plus a carton of any premium brands (Somersby, 1664 Blanc/Rose, Connor’s or Asahi) at participating supermarkets, hypermarkets, 99 Speedmart and eCommerce platforms will be able to redeem a 28cm natural non-stick Neoflam Casserole Hotpot Set worth RM209, which comes with a ‘Da Long Yi’ soup base, plus a can of Connor’s and a deck of special Dato’ Joey Yap Edition playing cards.   Over in East Malaysia, purchasing any one (1) carton of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner or Carlsberg Smooth Draught plus a carton of any premium brands rewards you with a sleek and modern Neoflam glass container set worth RM118, which comes in a set of two, measuring 470ml and 800ml. The containers are heat-safe and thermal shock resistant, airtight and leakproof too. Additionally, bring along your favourite CNY dishes to reunion dinners in an elegant red Tiffin carrier with CNY motifs by The Tiffin Company worth RM79, easily redeemable by purchasing any six sets of 4-can pack or a carton of 1664 Blanc, Asahi, Carlsberg Special Brew or Connor’s, plus you will receive an extra can of Connor’s. Consumers who enjoy big bottles of the Carlsberg Danish Pilsner, Carlsberg Smooth Draught and Carlsberg Special Brew, stand to win over RM3 million worth of prizes! Just check the flip side of your bottle caps at participating food courts and coffee shops, and you might just win yourrself one of the 6,000 Ang Pau’s up for grabs this festive season. The special Dato’ Joey Yap Edition playing cards is a giveaway with purchase of a tower, two buckets or with six full pints, 10 half-pints or 10 mugs of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner or Carlsberg Smooth Draught. One can also scan the QR code to upload your receipt to stand a chance of winning up to RM888 Touch ‘n Go e-Wallet credit. If you are in East Malaysia, each lucky winner will receive RM888 GrabPay e-Wallet credits. Carlsberg is giving this out to 25 lucky winners weekly. You can also visit the Carlsberg official store on Lazada and Shopee, Pandamart as well as Potboy and purchase an exclusive CNY Gift Pack by Carlsberg and Amazin’ Graze. You will be treated to a total of eight cans which include both the limited-edition CNY Carlsberg Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg Smooth Draught cans plus a can of either Asahi, 1664 Blanc, 1664 Rosé, Connor’s Stout Porter, Somersby Apple Cider and Somersby Watermelon Cider, giving you a variety of choice for your celebration. Also included in the Gift Pack are four packs of healthy assorted nuts from Amazin’ Graze, and exclusive Ang Pau packets that come in two collectible designs of “Smoothness” and “Longevity”.  From 1 January until 28 February 2022, Carlsberg is rewarding consumers with up to RM388 Touch n’ Go e-Wallet credits when purchasing RM20 worth of Carlsberg Malaysia products at selected convenient stores. For more information on all ongoing Chinese New Year promotions and events, head over to https://www.carlsbergcny.com.my Skirt Night Returns at Bentley’s Pub, Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur Photo by Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur Skirt Night returns at Bentley’s Pub at Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur after a long hiatus due to the lengthy lockdowns. Pre-pandemic, Bentley’s Pub was quite a popular joint where PMEBs came over for happy hour and drinks as there are multiple office buildings surrounding Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur, including Citibank which is right next door. Anyone in a skirt enjoys their choice of a complimentary beverage of Tiger Draught mugs or House Pouring Wines. Skirt Night at Bentley’s Pub happens every 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 evening from 𝟔:𝟎𝟎𝐩𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝟖:𝟎𝟎𝐩𝐦. Thanks for having us over! . Photo credits: Respective brands and author’s own Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/12/01/editors-note-december-2017/

Editor’s Note – December 2017

[Editor’s Note]    December is always my favourite month of the year (after my birthday month that is) as there’s Christmas and New Year’s Eve which is a great time to spend with loved ones and friends. Look out for my Christmas and NYE feature which will include the info on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day dinners and menus, as well as the NYE parties happening in Kuala Lumpur. Speaking of my birthday, many thanks to ANTE in 1 Utama Shopping Centre for hosting my birthday dinner (again!). As usual, the food was absolutely delicious especially the pork steaks! Also, many thanks to Macallan for the single malt whisky!          Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 Military   Bell & Ross launched their Vintage BR V1-92 Military which is part of the 3rd generation of the Vintage Collection. The new timepiece takes inspiration from the history of aviation and military codes. This minimalist and timeless watch combines the past and present and will fit perfectly on any wrist. This 38.5 mm authentic military version offers a reading which emphasizes the minutes on the large face reminiscent of the navigation watches used by military pilots to calculate their direction or speed. Reinterpreting the style of the past, the photoluminescent triangle at 12 o’clock enabled the pilots to instantly get their bearings, even in the dark.    Technical Specifications Movement: Calibre BR-CAL.302. Automatic mechanical. Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds and date. Crystal: Ultra-curved sapphire with anti-reflective coating.  Case:  38.5 mm in diameter. Satin-polished steel. Water Resistance: 100 metres Dial: Black Strap: Brown calfskin Buckle: Pin. Steel.    The Bell & Ross BR V1-92 Military retails in Malaysia at RM9,600 and it is available at Bell & Ross Boutiques (located at Pavilion KL, The Gardens, Gurney Plaza) and selected authorized watch retailers.           How to Deal with Millennials – The Entitled, Narcissistic, and Lazy Generation    A huge component of my company MHB is managing bloggers and social media influencers who are millennials or Generation Y. These are persons born after 1985 up to the early 2000, and are a generation that many bosses (who are usually older persons from Gen X and beyond) especially in corporate management find difficult to understand. This is because many of these millennials are extremely hard to handle, and often behave in an unprofessional manner which is unacceptable in the workplace. Fortunately, Simon Sinek, who is a British/American author, motivational speaker and marketing consultant offers some solutions to the conundrum. He is the author of three books including the 2009 best seller Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action (2009). If you’re in management and are at your wits’ end as to how to deal with your millennial staff, this video is for you. If you’re a millennial, Simon also offers some words of advise for you. The main point for millennials is – when you focus is on helping others, you naturally stop being so self-centred and narcissistic. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/12/18/porsche-club-malaysias-annual-dinner-2013-and-jabra-solemate-launch/

Porsche Club Malaysia’s Annual Dinner 2013 and Jabra Solemate Launch

Porsche Club Malaysia’s Annual Dinner 2013 [Event] I had the opportunity to attend the Porsche Club Annual Dinner 2013 on 15 December 2013 at the KL Golf & Country Club. No I don’t own a Porsche in case you were wondering, unless you count my little 1/24 scale model that is. I have to digress here for a moment and say that there seem to be more and more golddiggers around as I know girls who love to date guys who drive Porsches or other sports cars. Of course each person has his/ her own objectives in life but girls using looks and their body to get cash or luxury items or a high-end lifestyle eating fine dining and going on trips, etc. etc. just doesn’t deserve any respect in my books. Sometimes the people who you think you know will surprise and disappoint you with their hunger for the luxury lifestyle. Perhaps one day I’ll write a book of all my brushes with bimbos and golddiggers… No offence intended to any Porsche owners of course. I’m sure most owners worked long and hard to earn their fortunes and be able to afford a Porsche especially in Malaysia with the ridiculously high import and excise duties. Much respect to people who make it on their own intelligence and by the sweat of ones brow and conduct their work/ business in an ethical manner. . The annual dinner was a double celebration as it was also the Porsche 911’s 50th anniversary There were lots of Porsches parked outside from the newest to some really classic ones!   Also bumped into the delicious Nadia Heng there My partner in crime for the night – Shen Yee from Tattler magazine   Lots of ice cold Sapporo beer! The very colourful usherettes! Bevy of beauties – Miss World Malaysia 2011 Chloe Chen, Miss World Malaysia 2012 Lee Yvonne, and popular MC Julie Woon (L-R) A highlight of the evening was the fashion show by Amee Philips which had all the women going “Ahhhhh!” and all the men going “Arghhh!”. Didn’t manage to take any shots of the show itself but I managed to arranged for the models to pose for a shot outside at their display.   This one kinda remined me of the diamond in the movie Titanic – draw me Jack, wearing this, wearing only this!   . More info on the Porsche Club Malaysia at http://cms.porsche-clubs.com/PorscheClubs/pc_malaysia/pc_main.nsf/web/C125773B003BCD7DC12571ED0053EA99 Or follow their exploits on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/porscheclubmalaysia More info on Amee Philips at http://www.ameephilips.com/ . Jabra Solemate Launch [Tech & Gadgets] . Andy Kho and I headed over to WonderMama in Bangsar Village 1 (which has some lovely and affordable fusion Malaysian food!) on 28 November 2013 for the Jabra Solemate launch. . Jabra Solemate Mini (top), Jabra Solemate NFC (middle), Jabra Solemate Max (bottom) – we purposely stacked the speakers to give you a size comparison. . Now as most of you will remember, I reviewed the Jabra Solemate a year ago and a year on I’m privileged to be invited to preview the new 2nd generation of Jabra Solemate, called the Jabra Solemate NFC, which is available in red, blue, yellow and greyscale. Jabra has added super-fast Near Field Communication (NFC) pairing to the device for added convenience. By simply tapping your NFC-enabled device and your Solemate together, you’re instantly connected, and to disconnect just tap them together again! Along with the Jabra Solemate NFC, Jabra also launch two (2) more models of its portable speakers: . Jabra Solemate Mini Going on a holiday? Bring along the compact Jabra Solemate Mini which is compact yet durable enough to handle the scrapes and bumps of regular use with all round rubber protection and resistance to sweat, dust and splashes. Here are some of its key features: · Long playback time with a battery life of up to 8 hours · Easy pairing using Bluetooth or NFC and wirelessly controlled from across the room · Integrated cable in the sole of the speaker so you have the choice to connect wirelessly or wired · Exciting range of bold primary colours –  red, yellow and blue or classic black . Jabra SolemateTM Max This big guy was definitely the hero of the day. Here are some of its key features: • Two tweeters, two woofers, a custom-designed bass slave and Dolby Sound Space Expander that plays your music wirelessly, the way it should be heard • A rechargeable battery for 14 hours of listening pleasure, plus you can charge your phone while playing your music • Resistance to dirt, dust and water so you can venture outdoors • A high-tech design that looks as good in your living room as it does out in the garden • No wires and easy pairing with Bluetooth® or NFC . . Also launch was the Jabra Sound App with Dolby Digital Plus which delivers a sound space enhancer giving extra depth and dimension of the sound emerging from the Solemate. Pricing: The Jabra Solemate Mini has an RRP of RM379.00 The Jabra Solemate NFC has an RRP of RM599.00 The Jabra Solemate Max has an RRP of RM1,399.00 . . For more information, head over to http://www.jabra.com Photo credits: Andy Kho Photography (www.andykho.com) and author both using the Sony NEX-5T. More info at https://timchew.net/2013/10/01/sony-new-camera-2013-launch/ or http://www.sony.com.my . The Hobbit – The Desolation Of Smaug [Movie] From Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson comes “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug,” the second in a trilogy of films adapting the enduringly popular masterpiece The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien. The three films tell a continuous story set in Middle-earth 60 years before “The Lord of the Rings,” which Jackson and his filmmaking team brought to the big screen in the blockbuster trilogy that culminated with the Oscar®-winning “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.” “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” continues the adventure of the title character Bilbo Baggins as he journeys with the Wizard Gandalf and thirteen Dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield, on an epic quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor. Having survived the beginning of their unexpected journey, the Company continues East, encountering along the way the skin-changer Beorn and a swarm of giant Spiders in the treacherous forest of Mirkwood. After escaping capture by the dangerous Wood-elves, the Dwarves journey to Lake-town, and finally to the Lonely Mountain itself, where they must face the greatest danger of all—a creature more terrifying than any other; one which will test not only the depth of their courage but the limits of their friendship and the wisdom of the journey itself—the Dragon Smaug. . tomcat says – I had the chance to catch the media preview of this movie in IMAX and I thought it had some stunning visual effects and the storyline was more fast-paced as compared to the first movie in this trilogy. There’s also some eye-candy for you guys in the form of Tauriel the female elv, played by Evangeline Lilly. There’s also Legolas played by Orlando Bloom for you ladies. BTW do catch it in IMAX if you can. The Hobbit – The Desolation of Smaug opens in Malaysian cinemas on 12 December 2013 For more info, head over to http://www.thehobbit-asia.com .   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2011/04/11/3055/

Mini Countryman Launch

[Automotive News] BMW Group Malaysia introduced the brand new MINI Countryman on 24 March 2011 at the old KL Railway Station, completing the range of MINI vehicles available in Malaysia. As the fourth variant in its model family, the eagerly-anticipated MINI Countryman represents a series of firsts for the iconic MINI name. The MINI Countryman is the first MINI to feature four doors, a versatile interior layout offering space for five people and a large tailgate offering access to more than double the storage space of previous MINI vehicles. Whilst the MINI Countryman may sound like a more ‘grown-up’ version of the MINI, it has lost none of the trademark, go-kart drive feel of the MINI, even taking it a step further with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system available with the MINI Cooper S Countryman. All in, the MINI Countryman expresses the defining virtues of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, performance and scope for customisation – all traditions of this premium marque. . Introducing the new MINI Countryman, Geoffrey Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “From the start, the MINI name has always been synonymous with excitement, cheekiness and performance; characteristics that are in abundance with the new MINI Countryman that we are introducing today. The MINI Countryman represents everything that is great about the MINI and magnifies it. It is all about the 4 – 4th Family Member, 4 Doors, 4 Wheel Drive and built larger than 4 Metres in size!” Briscoe further added that the MINI brand continues to be a successful and growing brand for BMW Group Malaysia, saying “In 2010, BMW Group Malaysia sold a total of 222 MINI’s, a growth of 3.7 percent compared to the preceding year and with todays launch of the new MINI Countryman, we are looking forward to continuing MINI’s success in Malaysia.” As the world’s first maker of the premium iconic car, MINI broke new ground when the brand was re-introduced in 2001 by the BMW Group. Built around a strategy of combining advanced vehicle and chassis technology, uncompromising “Go-Kart” drive quality and an inimitable style, MINI quickly earned a special niche in car markets the world over. “The MINI Countryman represents an assured evolution of the brand’s design language, bridging the gap between the classic MINI concept and a future projection of its capabilities. Even with larger body dimensions, increased ground clearance and four doors, the MINI Countryman is still unmistakeably a MINI.” said Farid Sulaiman, MINI Manager at BMW Group Malaysia. Available in the Malaysian market from March 24 onwards, the MINI Countryman will be made available in two 1.6 litre engine variants; the MINI Cooper Countryman and the MINI Cooper S Countryman. Originally introduced for MINI in mid-2010, the 1.6-litre four-cylinder unit also boast a host of technical features, enabling the optimal combination of performance and fuel efficiency. The MINI Cooper Countryman’s drivetrain develops 90kW/122 hp, enabling the car to hit the 0 to 100 km/h mark in 11.6 seconds with an average fuel consumption of 7.6 litres per 100km and a CO2 emission rating of 177 grams per km. The MINI Cooper S Countryman, meanwhile, sees the addition of a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection complemented by fully variable valve management to the 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine,  with 135kW/184 hp, enabling the car to hit the 0 to 100 km/h mark in 8.3 seconds, offering by far the best balance between output and fuel consumption in its displacement class. The result is a new, traction-led expression of the agile handling for which MINI is famed. This ability is underpinned by sophisticated new suspension technology, which includes a front axle with MacPherson spring struts and forged track control arms, multi-link rear suspension and the electromechanical power steering system EPS. The MINI Countryman comes as standard with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, while Dynamic Traction Control will be a standard feature only on the MINI Cooper S Countryman and includes electronic locking function for the front axle differential. The MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive, which comes standard on the MINI Cooper S Countryman allows the driving fun you expect from the brand to be experienced off the beaten track as well. The permanent all-wheel-drive system’s quick and precise responses to changing conditions provide a new, traction-led expression of the handling talents for which MINI is famed. Here, an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive varies the distribution of power seamlessly between the front and rear axles. In normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the drive is sent to the rear wheels, with as much as 100 per cent being channeled during extreme situations. Externally, the MINI Countryman provides a familiar interpretation of classic MINI features, such as the roof line, hexagonal radiator grille, large headlights set into the bonnet, side indicator surrounds, capacious wheel arches and vertical rear light clusters. Using the MINI design language as a starting point, the MINI Countryman then showcases its own individualism with its individual design language. Large glass surfaces and distinctive contours of the roof provide an expansive visual cue of the MINI Countryman’s increase in interior space and four-door layout. The extra-wide border around the lower part of the body and powerfully bolstered wheel arches are a nod to the robustness of the vehicle and its all-wheel drive capabilities. In wheel offering, the MINI Cooper Countryman features 17 inch light alloy wheels with 5-Star Double Spoke whilst the MINI Cooper S Countryman offers 18 inch light alloy wheels in anthracite and with Turbo Fan design. The MINI Countryman comes as standard as a five seater with ample space to ensure comfort over long journeys with generous legroom, headroom and shoulder room. The rear seats can be moved forwards and backwards individually in a 60 : 40 split, and the backrests can be folded down either individually in a 40 : 20 : 40 split, all of which allows luggage capacity to be increased from 350 litres to a maximum of 1,170 litres. The interior of the MINI Countryman also boasts a selection of new design and functional elements. The slightly raised seating position allows easy entry, optimises the driver’s view over the road and reinforces the powerful character of the new model. The Centre Speedometre and air vents are bordered by chrome lining. The unique MINI Centre Rail, meanwhile, runs lengthwise through the middle of the interior in place of a conventional centre console and opens up new ways of integrating storage spaces and accessories just as you want them. A newly configured range of exterior colours featuring eleven new exterior colour options in the form of Pure Red, Bright Yellow, Surf Blue, Light Coffee, Light White, Absolute Black, Cosmic Blue, Oxford Green, Crystal Silver, Royal Grey and True Blue now extends the MINI colour palate. Meanwhile inside, upholstery materials in cloth leather in Parallel Lines of Carbon Black with choices of Pure Red or Light Tobacco, allows for a particularly harmonious combination with the interior Carbon Black Colour Line. Automatic air conditioning and an audio system with CD player are all fitted as standard, while the model-specific array of optional equipment packages available for the MINI Countryman includes the glass roof package and MINI Connected package The glass roof package offers one touch operation and convenient opening of a panoramic glass roof through radio-remote control key. The package can be obtained for an additional RM 9, 988. On the other hand, the MINI Connected package is a suite of technology features that opens the door to a globally unique form of in-car entertainment, utilising technology specifically developed to integrate the telecommunications, entertainment and online functions of an iPhone into the MINI, using a cable supplied with MINI Connected for the USB socket or via a snap-in adapter. Functions of MINI Connected introduced include the world’s first web radio function to allow users to pick up their preferred radio stations from around the world regardless of their locations, user-definable RSS news feeds and much more. Also included in the MINI Connected package is a Harmon Kardon HiFi loudspeaker system (480W/ 10 speakers) and Radio MINI Visual Boost with a 6.5 inches high-resolution colour LCD screen. The MINI Connected package retails at RM 14, 988. The retail prices (on the road for personal registration, without insurance, with the MINI Tender Loving Care service package) for the new MINI Cooper Countryman and MINI Cooper S Countryman are as follows: – MINI Cooper Countryman                   –           RM 248, 888 MINI Cooper S            Countryman                –           RM 285, 888 . MINI Countryman       Technical Data                   Cooper CooperS     Countryman Countryman ALL4         Engine type   N16B16M0 N18B16M0 Gearbox   automatic transmission 6 automatic transmission 6 Doors / Seats — / — 5 / 4 5 / 4 Veh. length / width / height (*with antenne) mm / mm / mm 4097 / 1789 / 1561 (*1579) 4110 / 1789 / 1561 (*1579) Wheelbase / Turning circle mm / m 2595 / 11.6 2595 / 11.6 Track front / rear mm / mm 1534 / 1559 1525 / 1551 Overhang front / rear mm / mm 764 / 738 770 / 745 Ground clearance mm 149 149 Shoulder room front / rear mm / mm 1341 / 1323 1341 / 1323 Elbow width front / rear mm / mm 1378 / 1360 1378 / 1360 Max. headroom front / rear mm / mm 1013 / 953 1013 / 953 Luggage volume m³ 0,350/0,450-1,170 0,350/0,450-1,170 Fuel tank capacity liter 47 47 Curb weight (DIN) / (EC) Kg / Kg 1295 / 1370 1405 / 1480 Weight distribution % 40.2 40.2 Gross veh. weight / Payload Kg / Kg 1765 / 470 1865 / 460 Axle load limit front / rear Kg / Kg 960 / 855 1000 / 895 Trailer load braked 12% / 8% Kg / Kg 1000  / 1000 1000  / 1000 Trailer load unbraked / nose weight Kg / Kg 500 / 500 / 75 Gross veh. weight w. trailer Kg 1840 1940 Rear axle load w. trailer Kg 959 997 Roof load Kg 75 75 Engine type / Cylinder / Valves — / — / — in line / 4 / 4 in line / 4 / 4 Fuel management — MEV 1722 MEVD 1722 Injection type / Charging type — / — SR(VVT) / – DI2,VVT / TwinScroll Turbo Displacement cm³ 1598 1598 Stroke / Bore mm / mm 85.8 / 77 85.8 / 77 Engine power / Engine speed KW (PS) / 1/min 90 (122)/ 6000 135 (184) / 5500 Engine torque / Engine speed Nm / 1/min 160 / 4250 240 / 1600-5000 (Overboost: 260Nm/1700-4500 1/min) Compression rate / Fuel type ( Recomm. ) :1 / — 11 / ROZ91-98 ( ROZ95 ) 10.5 / ROZ91-98 ( ROZ95 ) Emission classification — EU5 EU5 Gearbox name — AW 260K AW 225K 1st gear / 2nd gear / 3rd gear / 4th gear — / — / — / — 4.148 / 2.37 / 1.556 / 1.155 4.044 / 2.371 / 1.556 / 1.159 5th gear / 6th gear / 7th gear / 8th gear — / — / — / — 0.859 / 0.686 /  / 0.852 / 0.672 /  / Rear gear — 3.394 3.193 Final drive — 4.643 3.683 Steering type / Transmission ratios — / :1 rack-and-pinion (EPS)/ 14.1 rack-and-pinion (EPS)/ 14.1 Front brake / diameter x thickness — / mm disc ventilated / 294 x 22 disc ventilated / 307 x 24 Rear brake / diameter x thickness — / mm disc / 280 x 10 disc / 280 x 10 Cx / A / Cx x A — / m² / m²  0.35 / 2.36 / 0.83  0.36 / 2.36 / 0.85 Top speed (optional) Km/h 182 205 0-100Km/h s 11.6 8.3 0-1000m s 33.3 29 80-120Km/h (4.) / 80-120Km/h (5.) s / s  /  / Output per litre KW/dm³ 56.3 84.5 Weight ratio Kg/KW 14.4 10.4 KV01 city L/100Km 9.9 10.9 KV01 highway L/100Km 6.3 6.5 KV01 combined / Range L/100Km / km 7.6 / 620 8.1 / 580 CO2 combined g/Km 177 189 CO / NOx / HC g/Km / g/Km / g/Km  /  /  /  / NMHC / HC+NOx / Particles g/Km / g/Km / g/Km  /  /  /  / Front tyre — 205/60 R16 92H 205/55 R17 91V Rear tyre — 205/60 R16 92H 205/55 R17 91V Rear rim — 6,5J x 16 LM 7J x 17 LM Rear rim — 6,5J x 16 LM 7J x 17 LM Run flat — no yes Wheel offset front / rear mm / mm 46 / 46 50 / 50 Radiator incl. Heater / Engine oil ** liter / liter 6 / 4.2 6 / 4.2 Transmission fluid — permanent permanent Battery / Battery position Ah / — 55 / engine compartement 55 / engine compartement Alternator — / W 120 / 1680 120 / 1680 EfficientDynamics       MSA / EPS / IGR — / — / — no / yes / no no / yes / no Aerodyn. / fuel-econ. oils — / — no / no no / no ROWI****/ A/C cmpr. cplg. / map-opt. oilp. — / — / — no / no / no no / no / no . BMW Group Malaysia hari ini memperkenalkan MINI Countryman serba baru, melengkapkan barisan kenderaan MINI yang ditawarkan di Malaysia. Sebagai varian keempat dalam keluarga modelnya, MINI Countryman yang dinanti-nantikan ini mewakili keluaran pertama yang memperkenalkan ciri-ciri yang baru bagi jenama MINI yang ikonik. MINI Countryman adalah MINI pertama yang menampil ciri empat pintu, ruang dalaman serbaguna yang menawarkan ruang bagi lima orang dan pintu belakang yang besar untuk memberikan akses lebih daripada dua kali ganda ruang simpanan berbanding model-model MINI sebelum ini. Tatkala MINI Countryman mungkin berbunyi seakan versi MINI yang `lebih matang’, ia langsung tidak kehilangan ciri keasliannya, rasa pemanduan ‘go-kart’ MINI, malah meningkatkan setahap lagi dengan sistem pacuan semua roda MINI ALL4 yang boleh didapati pada model MINI Cooper S Countryman. Keseluruhannya, MINI Countryman melahirkan nilai-nilai khusus jenama ini daripada segi reka bentuk, kualiti premium, prestasi dan skop bagi pengubahsuaian – kesemuanya tradisi jenama premium ini. Semasa memperkenalkan MINI Countryman serba baru ini, Geoffrey Briscoe, Pengarah Urusan BMW Group Malaysia berkata, “Daripada awal, jenama MINI telah sentiasa sinonim dengan keseronokan, kenakalan dan prestasi; perwatakan-perwatakan yang sedia ada  pada MINI Countryman yang kami perkenalkan hari ini. MINI Countryman mewakili segala-galanya yang hebat mengenai MINI dan mengandakannya lagi. Semuanya berkaitan 4 – anggota keempat keluarga, 4 pintu, pacuan empat roda dan dibina lebih panjang daripada 4 meter dari segi saiz!’’. Briscoe menambah lagi bahawa jenama MINI terus menjadi jenama yang berjaya dan semakin penting bagi BMW Group Malaysia. “Pada 2010, BMW Group Malaysia menjual sebanyak 222 MINI, suatu pertumbuhan sebanyak 3.7 peratus berbanding tahun sebelumnya dan dengan pelancaran MINI Countryman hari ini, kami yakin ia akan meneruskan kejayaan MINI di Malaysia.” Sebagai pembuat kereta ikon premium pertama di dunia, MINI mencatatkan sejarah apabila jenama MINI diperkenalkan semula pada 2001 oleh BMW Group. Dibina dengan strategi menggabungkan teknologi kenderaan dan chasis yang maju, kualiti pemanduan “Go-Kart” yang tiada tolok banding dan gaya yang tidak boleh ditiru, MINI pantas menjadi kenderaan khusus yang istimewa dalam pasaran kereta di seluruh dunia. “MINI Countryman mewakili evolusi jenama menerusi bahasa reka bentuk istimewanya, menutup jurang antara konsep klasik MINI dan rekabentuk masa depan. Walaupun dengan dimensi badan yang lebih besar, pelepasan permukaan yang ditambah dan empat pintu, MINI Countryman tidak ragu-ragu lagi tetapi sebuah MINI.” kata Farid Sulaiman, Pengurus MINI di BMW Group Malaysia. Model MINI Countryman boleh diperolehi di pasaran Malaysia bermula 24 Mac,  dan akan ditawarkan dalam dua varian enjin 1.6 liter; MINI Cooper Countryman dan MINI Cooper S Countryman. Asalnya diperkenalkan untuk MINI pada pertengahan 2010, enjin 1.6 liter empat silinder ini juga memaparkan beberapa ciri teknikal yang membolehkan gabungan optimal prestasi dan kecekapan bahan api. Enjin MINI Cooper Countryman menjana 90kW/122 kuasa kuda (hp), membolehkan kereta itu mencapai 0 hingga 100 kmj dalam 11.6 saat dengan purata penggunaan bahan api sebanyak 7.6 liter setiap 100km dan kadar pelepasan CO2 sebanyak 177 grams setiap km. Manakala MINI Cooper S Countryman, menyaksikan tambahan turbocaj ‘twin-scroll’ dan suntikan terus disokong oleh pengurusan injap bermasa sepenuhnya kepada enjin petrol 1.6 liter empat silinder, dengan 135kW/184 hp, membolehkan kereta itu mencecah 0 hingga 100 kmj dalam 8.3 saat, menawarkan imbangan terbaik antara output dan penggunaan bahan api dalam kelas enjinnya. Hasilnya adalah cetusan baru, dipacu kuasa kilas pada kendalian cergas yang mana MINI sangat mahsyur. Keupayaan ini diperteguhkan oleh teknologi sistem gantungan baru yang canggih, yang merangkumi gandar depan dengan gegelung MacPherson dan batang kawalan trek, gantungan belakang pelbagai rangkaian dan sistem kuasa kemudi elektromekanikal eps. MINI Countryman didatangkan standard dengan sistem ‘Dynamic Stability Control’ (DSC), manakala Dynamic Traction Control pula hanya ada pada MINI Cooper S Countryman dan merangkumi fungsi kunci elektronik bagi front axle differential. Pacuan semua roda MINI ALL4, yang merupakan ciri standard pada MINI Cooper S Countryman membolehkan anda menikmati keseronokan pemanduan sebagaimana yang anda jangkakan dari jenama ini pada permukaan jalan yang tidak sempurna juga. Sistem pacuan semua roda kekal tersebut memberikan tindak balas pantas dan tepat kepada perubahan permukaan. Ini memberikan cetusan baru, dipacu kuasa kilas pada pengendalian kereta, sesuatu ciri di mana MINI sangat dikenali. Di sini, pusat pengubah elektromagnetik diletakkan pada kedudukan langsung pada pemanduan akhir mempelbagaikan edaran kuasa secara lancar antara gandar depan dan belakang. Dalam keadaan pemanduan biasa, sehingga 50 peratus pemanduan dihantar ke roda belakang,  dengan sebanyak 100 peratus disalurkan semasa keadaan ekstrem. Di bahagian luaran, MINI Countryman memberikan tafsiran yang menyerupai ciri-ciri klasik MINI, seperti garisan bumbung, jeriji radiator segi enam (hexagonal), lampu depan besar terletak ke dalam bonet, petunjuk sisi sekeliling, wheel arch yang luas dan bergaya dan kelompok lampu belakang menegak. Menggunakan bahasa reka bentuk MINI sebagai titik permulaan, MINI Countryman kemudiannya memaparkan individualisme dengan bahasa reka bentuknya yang tersendiri. Pemukaan cermin besar dan kontor bumbung yang ketara, memberikan bayangan visual luas pada pertambahan dari segi ruangan dan kedudukan empat pintu MINI Countryman. Sempadan yang kini lebih besar di sekitar bahagian bawah badan dan arches roda yang diperkukuhkan lagi adalah petanda keperkasaan kenderaan ini dan keupayaan pacuan semua rodanya. Daripada segi roda, MINI Cooper Countryman menawarkan rim roda aloi ringan 17 inci dengan motif 5-Bintang Double Spoke manakala MINI Cooper S Countryman menawarkan rim roda aloi ringan 18 inci dalam reka bentuk anthracite dan Turbo Fan. Semua model MINI Countryman  mempunyai lima tempat duduk dengan ruang yang mencukupi untuk memastikan keselesaan bagi perjalanan jauh dengan ruang kaki, kepala dan bahu yang memuaskan. Kerusi belakang boleh dialih ke depan dan ke belakang secara satu-satu dalam pecahan 60 : 40, dan tempat rehat belakang boleh dilipat ke bawah sama ada secara sendiri dalam pecahan 40 : 20 : 40, semuanya yang mana ia membolehkan kapasiti ruang barangan ditambah dari 350 liter ke 1,170 liter. Ruang dalaman MINI Countryman juga memaparkan pilihan reka bentuk dan elemen-elemen fungsi yang baru. Kedudukan tempat duduk yang dinaikkan sedikit membolehkan kemasukan penumpang dengan mudah, mengoptimumkan pandangan pemandu pada jalan dan mengukuhkan perwatakan bertenaga model baru ini. Meter laju tengah dan cerombong pendingin udara disempadankan dengan garisan krom. MINI Centre Rail yang unik, menjalar ke paras pinggang menerusi ruang tengah dalaman menggantikan konsol tengah konvensional dan membuka cara baru menyepadukan ruang simpanan dengan aksesori mengikut cara kemahuan anda. Pilihan warna badan baru memaparkan 11  pilihan warna dalam bentuk ‘Pure Red’, ‘Bright Yellow’, ‘Surf Blue’, ‘Light Coffee’, ‘Light White’, ‘Absolute Black’, ‘Cosmic Blue’, ‘Oxford Green’, ‘Crystal Silver’, ‘Royal Grey’ dan ‘True Blue’ kini meningkatkan pilihan warna bagi MINI. Manakala di dalam, bahan-bahan disalut sarung kulit dalam Garisan Sejajar ‘Carbon Black’ dengan pilihan warna ‘Pure Red’ atau ‘Light Tobacco’, membolehkan gabungan harmoni bersama Garisan Warna ‘Carbon Black’ dalam ruang dalaman. Sistem pendingin hawa automatik dan sistem audio beserta pemain cakera padat semua dipasang standard, manakala pakej peralatan pilihan khusus-model  juga ditawarkan bagi MINI Countryman termasuk pakej cermin bumbung dan pakej MINI Connected. Pakej cermin bumbung  menawarkan operasi satu sentuhan dan kemudahan membuka bumbung cermin panorama menerusi kunci kawalan jauh. Pakej ini boleh diperolehi dengan tambahan RM 9, 988. Selain itu, pakej MINI Connected adalah satu suit ciri-ciri teknologi  yang membuka pintu kepada bentuk  global unik hiburan dalam-kereta, menggunakan teknologi yang dibangunakan khusus untuk menyepadukan telekomunikasi, hiburan dan fungsi dalam talian sebuah iPhone ke dalam MINI, menggunakan kabel yang dibekalkan dengan MINI Connected melalui soket USB atau menerusi adapter. Fungsi-fungsi MINI Connected yang diperkenalkan merangkumi fungsi radio web yang pertama seumpamanya di dunia yang membolehkan pengguna mendengar stesen radio yang disukai dari mana-mana tempat pun di dunia, capaian berita RSS dan banyak lagi.Turut termasuk dalam pakej MINI Connected ini ialah sistem pembesar suara Harmon Kardon HiFi (480W/ 10 pembesar suara) dan Radio MINI Visual Boost dengan paparan LCD warna 6.5 inci resolusi tinggi. Pakej MINI Connected dijual  pada harga RM 14, 988. Harga pasaran (atas jalan bagi pendaftaran persendirian, tanpa insurans, dengan pakej servis MINI Tender Loving Care) bagi MINI Cooper Countryman dan MINI Cooper S Countryman serba baru adalah seperti berikut: – MINI Cooper Countryman                   –           RM 248, 888 MINI Cooper S            Countryman                –           RM 285, 888 . . Mini首次在马来西亚推介全新的Mini四门车，并拥有五人座设计及四轮驱动系统(4WD) 吉隆坡，20011年3月24日 – 马来西亚宝马集团今天推介全新的MINI Countryman，使到马来西亚Mini汽车款式系列变得更完整。作为Mini家族第四代改良型号，大众热切期待MINI Countryman将成为Mini系列的独特标志。 MINI Countryman是Mini的第一部四门车。拥有灵活的内部设计，并可以容纳五人。同时也拥有一个大型的尾板。相较于之前的Mini系列，这款型号拥有多达两倍的存储空间。同时，MINI Countryman更有如“成长版”的Mini车系列，但是却保留了Mini特有的标志，给与驾驶者卡丁车的驾驶感觉。你也可以选择拥有四轮驱动车系统的MINI Cooper S Countryman。总的来说，MINI Countryman呈现出了此品牌的独特设计、绝佳的品质及卓越性能。 马来西亚宝马集团总经理，杰弗里布里斯特解释说：“从一开始，Mini这品牌给人的感觉就是充满惊喜和高性能。我们今天推介的MINI Countryman拥有丰富的特征。全新的MINI Countryman呈献出Mini的一切优点，并且把这些优点都放大。这全都与4-4家庭成员有关连、包括4个门、4轮驱动及大于4米的结构。” 布里斯特补充说，MINI仍然是马来西亚宝马集团不断增长的品牌。“在2010年，马来西亚宝马集团总共售出222辆Mini。比较起去年，增长了3.7巴仙。随着今天推出全新的MINI Countryman，它将让马来西亚Mini继续迈向成功。” 作为世界上首个制造标志性汽车的公司，宝马集团在2001年推出Mini时就有了全新的突破。MINI的结构结合了先进汽车和地盘技术战略、永不妥协的卡丁车素质及独特的风格，让MINI在全球车市建立了特殊地位。 “MINI Countryman呈献出该品牌的演变，缩小了经典MINI及未来潜力的距离。虽然它有较大的面积，增加离地间隙和四门式，MINI Countryman绝对无误，因为它依然是MINI。”马来西亚宝马集团Mini经理，苏莱曼.法里德说道。 MINI Countryman将在3月24日登陆马来西亚市场。MINI Countryman拥有两款不同的1.6毫升引擎车款，分别是MINI Countryman和Mini Cooper S Countryman。 最初的Mini推介与2010年中。1.6升的四缸单位拥有许多功能，并让它的性能和燃油效率成为最佳组合。MINI Cooper Countryman拥有90kW/122马力的动力系统，使车子可以在11.6秒内从0时速加速到每小时100公里的时速，并且每100公里只消耗7.6升燃油及每公里排放177克的二氧化碳。MINI Coope S Countryman有额外的双卷轴涡轮增压器和直喷技术以启动1.6升的四缸单位。它135kW/184的马力，让车子从0时速加速到每小时100公里的时速只需要8.3秒，这乃是迄今为止在输出和油耗之间最平衡的产品。 MINI最著名就是牵引主导敏捷处理。这种能力的基础是先进的新型悬浮技术，其中包括与麦花臣支柱和弹簧跟踪控制臂、多连杆后悬架、EPS前轴机电动力转向系统。MINI Countryman含有动态稳定控制地同 (DSC) 。而动态牵引力控制系统只设于MINI Cooper S Countryman，同时也包括前桥差速器的电子锁功能。 MINI Cooper S Countryman的四轮驱动车功能让驾驶着更享受驾驶乐趣，就如您一直都对这品牌期望所得到的驾驶经验。永久的全轮驱动系统可以快速并准确的更换一个全新及牵引主导敏捷处理。在此，一个电磁中央差速器定位可以为前轴和后轴分配无缝力量。在普通的驾驶情况下，超过50巴仙的驱动力将着重于后轮。当处于极端情况下，100巴仙的驱动力将着重于后轮。 从外而观，Mini Countryman备有经典Mini的功能，如车顶线、六角形散热器格栅、引擎盖的大灯、内则指示灯、宽敞的轮拱和垂直尾灯。以MINI设计语言为出发点，MINI Countryman展示了它个性化的设计语言。大型玻璃表面和车顶曲线更改变了MINI Countryman视觉上的感受，包括更宽敞的内部空间和四门设计。 特宽的车子底部和充满动力的轮拱是稳固了整部车子及全轮型驱动能力。在轮子方面，Mini Cooper Countryman有17英寸的轻质铝合金轮圈。而MINI Cooper S Countryman则有18英寸的双轻质铝合金轮圈，并且拥有无烟煤和涡轮风扇设计。 MINI Countryman具有足够的空间。五人座的宽敞空间让您有足够的伸展空间，以确保驾驶者和乘客皆可以有个舒服的长途之旅。后排座椅更可以按60:40前后移动，后座靠背则可以按40:20:40折叠。这样就可以极大程度地增强了存储空间，从350升提升至1,170升。 MINI Countryman内部也是一个全新设计和较实用性。略微提高的座椅位置可以方便进出，优化了司机对于路面的视线和加强了新车型的强大特征。中间的仪表板和通风孔皆有镀铬边，同时也有Mini特别的中心操作装置。除此以外，在前座位置中间也设有一个多功能箱，特别为你而设了一个特别的存储空间。 车身的颜色也拥有更多的选择，包括纯红色、鲜黄色、海蓝色、淡咖啡色、浅白色、精粹黑、宝蓝色、牛津绿、水晶银、品灰色和星空蓝。车子内部的垫衬料是碳黑色时闲真皮，可选择纯红色颜色条或深烟草色颜色条，加上黑色的线条，让内部的颜色组合更加协调。自动空调和CD播放系统更是标准的配备，而MINI Countryman也设有选择性装饰配套，包括玻璃车顶配套和Mini连接配套。 玻璃车顶配套包括一键式操作和无线电遥控。整个配套的零售价为RM9,988。 另一方面，Mini联系配套包括各种额外科技功能，它开启了全球性特有的车内娱乐享受。利用特有功能整合通讯、娱乐和采用iPhone上网功能。你只需要采用Mini联系配套提供的USB插座或连接单元适配器。 MINI 联系配套功能包括全球第一个网络电台功能，让用户选择位于世界各地的电台、用户自定RSS新闻及更多。这个配套也包括哈蒙顿高保真扬声器系统(480W/ 10扬声器) 及Mini视觉助力包括6.5英寸的高清彩色液晶显示屏。MINI 联系配套零售价为RM14,988。 MINI Cooper Countryman和MINI Cooper S Countryman的零售价 (上路价，不包括保险，包含Mini亲切爱心服务配套)如下： MINI Cooper Countryman                   –           RM 248, 888 MINI Cooper S Countryman                –           RM 285, 888 More info here – http://www.mini.my/ Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/05/28/volkswagen-jetta-ckd-2014-launch/

Volkswagen Jetta (CKD 2014) Launch

[Automobiles]   Headed over to the newly opened Damansara Performing Arts Centre in Damansara Perdana, Kuala Lumpur on 28 April 2014 for the launch of Volkswagen Group Malaysia and DRB-HICOM Berhad’s fourth and latest (CKD) Malaysian-assembled model, the Volkswagen Jetta . The (CBU) Jetta has been one of the most popular Volkswagen models since its introduction in Malaysia in 2011 and with the launch of the new CKD Jetta, Volkswagen expects to capture even greater share of the Malaysian automobile market. “The Jetta offers an aspirational and inspirational drive that marries sportiness, elegance and safety without compromising on Volkswagen’s commitment to sustainability with its fuel efficient consumption levels. The local assembly of the Jetta is the latest indication of our commitment to offer more affordable vehicle choices for Malaysians seeking the quality and reassurance that comes with a German engineered vehicle,” said Christoph Aringer, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia. Delving further on the importance of the locally assembled Jetta to Volkswagen Group Malaysia, Mr Aringer also adds, “The fully imported Jetta introduced in 2011 was a significant contributor to Volkswagen’s success in Malaysia thus far. We are extremely confident that sales of the Jetta will surge forward now that the car is being locally assembled and even more competitively priced than ever before.”   Volkswagen is gaining market share globally and in Malaysia   Simon Loasby, Director of Design, Volkswagen Group China shared the design principle adopted by the Volkswagen design team, “The Jetta possesses a design that is perfectly poised between sporty and elegant supported by a unique, thought-through and consistent sedan interior and exterior design language. While its stylish and distinctive design is attractive whilst being understated, the Jetta also promises the pleasure of driving and at the same time provides an assurance of security and environmental friendliness”. Simon then led us through the evolution of the Golf (which shares the same DNA as the Jetta) showing us the changes from the very first generation all the way up to the current generation.   Simon explaining the Golden Ratio which is integral to any successful design We were then treated to a live sketch of the design of the car The launch gambit featured a little musical performance which was quite entertaining   Exterior The Jetta holds true to the Volkswagen design DNA, featuring dynamic design lines that gives the car its sporty yet classy design. Fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille and twin exhaust tailpipes, the car is further kitted with front and rear fog lights, in case of fog. Its halogen headlights comes with automatic headlight activation with ‘Leaving Home’ and manual ‘Coming Home’ functions and exterior mirror with environment lighting to assist drivers in dark area. The sedan is also equipped with Park Distance Control (PDC) for front and rear, and electrically adjustable exterior mirror for driver convenience especially during parking.   Engine and Performance The Jetta combines a 1.4l twin-charged direct petrol injection TSI engine (same as the Golf TSI) with a 7-speed direct shift gearbox (the only car in its class with a 7-speed gearbox) that gives an impressive output of 160PS and a torque of 240Nm between 1,500 to 4,500rpm. I’ve actually test driven the Golf TSI before and it offers very generous amounts of torque. Of course the Jetta is slightly heavier but I expect the performance to be almost similar. Will confirm this fact once I’ve had the chance to test drive this new Jetta.  Volkswagen claims that the Jetta is able to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 8.3 seconds and capable of reaching a top speed of 221kphT. he Jetta features a combined fuel consumption of approximately 6.0l/100 km (16.7 km per litre) on a Euro 5 emission standard, making it pretty fuel efficient.     Enhanced Entertainment Features The Jetta’s entertainment features the new RCD320 radio with multiple connectivity options such as Bluetooth, SD-card slot, USB with iPod interface and AUX-In. This multi-function display comes with multi-language support and its audio system is further supplemented with 6 quality speakers.   Safety Features The Jetta is equipped with dual front airbags with front passenger airbag deactivation, dual front side airbags and curtain airbags for front and rear passengers; Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Brake Assist (BA) as well as hill-hold control and rain sensor is installed in the Jetta. The Jetta also features safety-optimized front head restraints and child seat anchorage points (ISOFIX system).   Interior The interior features such as a multi-function leather steering wheel complemented with leather gearshift knob and handbrake lever, as well as ‘Black Pyramids’ decorative inserts for dashboard and door trim panel. The Jetta also includes auto-dimming rear view mirror, cruise control, auto power windows for all four doors, glove compartment with cooling functions and 510 litres of trunk space. The Jetta’s seats are furnished with ‘Sienna’ fabric seat upholstery, and the front seats are height adjustable, while the rear comes with 60/40 foldable seats. Other features include adjustable front armrest and rear armrest as well as a ‘Climatronic’ automatic air conditioning system with 2-zone temperature control and rear air-con vents.     The Jetta is available in four colour choices: Candy White, Platinum Grey, Reflex Silver and Deep Black. The (CKD) Malaysian-assembled Jetta is available for booking at all Volkswagen dealerships in Peninsular Malaysia from 2 May 2014 priced at  RM130,888.00 For more information, head over to www.volkswagen.com.my   Photos taken with the Sony RX1. More info on the RX1 and other Sony cameras at http://bit.ly/1eLboU1 Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/07/25/automotive-news-july-2022/

Automotive News – July 2022

[Automotive News] BMW Malaysia Presents Limited Special Editions of the BMW 3 Series BMW Malaysia announced Limited Editions of the New BMW 320i M Sport Edition and the New BMW 330i M Sport Edition, both locally assembled and outfitted with extra features to improve the premium driving experience of the best-selling sports sedan in the premium segment of the Malaysian automotive market. The M Sport Package and new 18-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-Spoke Style 790 M will be offered with the New Limited BMW 320i M Sport Edition to further the car’s sports appeal. Interior-wise, the new model will also have Individual Roof-Lining Anthracite, Variable Sports Steering, and M leather steering wheel. The New Limited BMW 330i M Sport Edition, on the other hand, will have an electrified glass roof feature and a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System for the best driving experience possible. The new 19-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-Spoke Style 791 M further enhance the sporting look of the BMW 330i M Sport. Both Limited Edition models come in Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Mineral Grey, and M Portimao Blue as exterior colour options. Interior upholstery is only available in Black Leather Vernasca. Photo credits: BMW Malaysia . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/06/26/sneak-peak-new-micro-43-system-camera-to-launch-tomorrow/

Sneak Peak – New DSLM & Micro 4/3 System Cameras to Launch Tomorrow!

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

https://timchew.net/2020/02/03/valentines-day-2020-kuala-lumpur-and-selangor-dinners-set-menus-romantic-restaurants-promotions/

Valentine’s Day 2020 Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Dinners, Set Menus, Romantic Restaurants, Promotions

[Special Feature] This Valentine’s Day feature includes some of the top romantic restaurants in hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, and beyond, featuring their Valentine’s Day 2020 romantic dinners, set menus, spa packages, staycation promotions and more: Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur St. Regis Kuala Lumpur The Westin Kuala Lumpur Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur Impiana KLCC Hotel (and Aquaria KLCC) The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur – read more at https://timchew.net/2020/01/29/valentines-day-2020-menu-at-senja-the-saujana-hotel-kuala-lumpur/ Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur Hilton Kuala Lumpur DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur Hilton Petaling Jaya DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru Hilton Kuching DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang    If you’re looking for restaurants promotions and Valentine’s Day 2020 set dinners at the following restaurants, head over to https://timchew.net/2020/01/20/valentines-day-2020-dinners-in-kuala-lumpur-and-petaling-jaya-selangor/ BABE by Jeff Ramsay Enfin by James Won Troika Sky Dining Marini’s on 57 (KLCC) Marble 8 on 56 (KLCC) Cloud Nine (Pavilion Elite) – read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/06/valentines-day-2020-menu-at-cloud-nine-pavilion-elite-kuala-lumpur/ Geo Wine Nat (Pavilion Elite) Expressoul GastroBar Take Eat Easy Modern Bakery & Cafe The Geographic Adventure Restaurant & Bar Puchong Envi Skydining at Menara TA One – read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/02/valentines-day-2020-menu-at-envi-skydining-menara-ta-one-kuala-lumpur/ Tatto – read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/11/romantic-italian-restaurant-near-kuala-lumpur-city-centre-klcc-tatto/ YU 御 – read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/01/editors-note-february-2020/ Meatology by Chef Yenni Law – read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/01/editors-note-february-2020/ Pietro Ristorante Italiano – read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/07/romantic-italian-restaurant-in-damansara-heights-pietro-ristorante-italiano/ Signature at The Roof (Bandar Utama)- read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/08/2020-valentines-day-dinner-menu-reviews/ The Fire Grill TTDI – read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/08/2020-valentines-day-dinner-menu-reviews/ Samba Brazilian Steak House Mamamon Poseidon Reserve at Four Seasons Place Kuala Lumpur   Need flowers for Valentine’s Day? Check out the selection of beautiful bouquets by Beautifleurs Florist (https://www.facebook.com/beautifleurs/) at the bottom of this feature.     This feature is presented by MHB Digital This slideshow requires JavaScript. MHB Digital provides credible, engaging, informative, attractive, cost-effective and highly affordable digital, content, social media, and influencer marketing solutions! What We Believe We believe that digital publicity should be engaging while being affordable and cost-effective. We believe in conveying our clients’ message through ethical, high-quality, and trustworthy content in a lifestyle and non-hard sell manner that will stand out from all the junk, tabloid clutter and fake news, capturing the attention of consumers as well as providing positive brand awareness. What Makes Us Different Advertorial content on our talents’ social media/ blogs is carefully curated by media professionals with multiple years of experience in the publishing and media industry to ensure that the client’s key message(s) get across to the readers in a lifestyle and engaging manner, besides maintaining quality, and accuracy. Cross Platform Publicity We combine the strengths of the three (3) popular social media/ digital platforms (Instagram, Facebook and blogs) in Malaysia working in synergy to create attractive and credible content highlighting our client’s product/ service! For more info, head over to http://mhbdigital.com       Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur This Valentine’s Day, Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur offers lovebirds captivating dining experiences, sensuous spa journeys, and a fabulous getaway offer. Love Among the Stars at Privé, Level 65 Exclusively for Four Seasons Private Residents, Privé, Level 65 elevates Valentine’s Day in every possible way. Soaring high at 1150 feet (350 metres) above the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this private venue will host a panoramic dinner on February 14, 2020. As the glittering skyline sweeps across the horizon, reigniting romance, fragrant candles and flower petals infuse the air with desire. The inventive menu, paired with fine wines, reflects the 6S theme – Spicy, Smoky, Sour, Savoury, Sexy and Sweet. Diners can sample tantalising creations such as royal oyster tartare, velvoute of sea urchin and frozen avocado sorbet, along with an array of delicacies such as sea grapes and beluga caviar. The evening concludes with a surprise gift crafted by Tiffany & Co. Evoking Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, Four Seasons epicurean celebration in the clouds takes date night to a whole new level. February 14, 2020, 6:00 to 10:30 pm; MYR 5,000 nett per couple Love Blossoms at Yun House Couples can share a signature love feast in the glamorous, seductive setting of Yun House. Symbolising the essence of this special day, the menu incorporates classic Valentine’s traditions as well as ancient Chinese myths, reimagined onto the plate by Chef Jimmy Wong and his team. Sample distinctive creations such as Love Triangle (Alaskan crab legs with foie gras, truffle and Peking duck), Love Bird (bird’s nest and scallop in golden broth) and Meant to Be (crispy noodles with Boston lobster and asparagus). February 14, 2020, available for lunch and dinner; MYR 1,314 nett per couple (with champagne), MYR 1,040 nett per couple (without champagne) Dine Under the Sky at the Pool Bar & Grill Savour an al-fresco dinner under the stars at the Pool Bar & Grill, with magnificent cityscapes and a special menu crafted by Chef de Cuisine Varinder Patial. Begin with a bottle of wine or crafted cocktails, followed by an aphrodisiacal adventure that sets romance ablaze. Each dish features tantalizing ingredients such as American oysters, tlLur caviar, Alaskan crab, Champagne espuma, truffles and strawberries. The private cabana is perfect for snuggles and stargazing, caressed by cool breezes. February 14, 2020, 7:00 to 10:30 pm; four-course set menu at the dining table at MYR 588 nett per couple (includes a bottle of wine); five-course set menu at a private cabana at MYR 888 nett per couple (includes a welcome cocktail/mocktail) Dine to Hearts’ Content at Curate Keep that precious romantic spark alive with an extravagant selection of specialties from around the world, accompanied by champagne or sparkling grape juice. Glimmering candles and fresh blossoms light up the table, with designer pralines adding a touch of delight. Couples can spice up their night with “Love Marked” dishes, such as Rockefeller oysters, heart-shaped pizzas and chocolate-wrapped strawberries. Four Seasons chefs sauté, stir-fry and flambé through the evening, serving up fresh-off-the-flame deliciousness, while Chef Mak’s “nice cream” tickles the taste buds – a multisensory experience that puts a fresh spin on the world’s most-loved dessert. Plumed by delicate smoke, this live-action version of ice-cream is made with a dash of liquid nitrogen, resulting in a bowl of smooth, creamy goodness. The lively, interactive ambience of Curate makes it ideal for couples as well as families. February 14, 2020, 6:00 to 10:30 pm; MYR 500 nett per couple, including one glass of bubbly per person Valentine’s at The Lounge On this magical evening at The Lounge, fall in love over a four- or five-course signature menu, starring a superb main course of choice. The creative culinary team combines international flavours and local inspiration to present a richly layered romantic feast. Lovers can savour delicate ingredients together, such as Boston lobster, t’lur caviar, foie gras and Alaskan crab. The journey concludes with a selection of gorgeous desserts. February 14, 2020, 7:00 to 10:30 pm; four-course set menu at MYR 488 nett per couple, five-course set menu at MYR 688 nett per couple (add MYR 200 for a bottle of wine) Celebrate Love at The Spa The perfect treat for couples who want to nurture their togetherness at The Spa. A 90-minute full body massage transports both guests into a realm of blissful relaxation, while a 30-minute rejuvenating facial leaves them newly radiant, revealing the most beautiful ornament of all – the glow of love. Delectable pralines and bouquets of fresh petals further sweeten the celebration, and a bottle of bubbly sets a sparkling tone for the rest of the day. February 14-16, 2020; MYR 1,588 nett per couple Staycation at Four Seasons Have a blissful Valentine’s Day weekend, from waking up in a beautifully appointed room, to savouring a romantic dinner for two with champagne. Lovebirds can spend their time luxuriating at the Spa and lounging by the poolside, or exploring the vibrant surrounds of the Hotel. Later, head to Bar Trigona for Champagne cocktails, infused with sloe gin to lend a rosy touch. The Valentine’s Day Staycation weekend includes: overnight accommodation in a luxuriously appointed room, daily breakfast for two at Curate and romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day for two at Curate including a glass of champagne, parking for one car, and more. To book, email kua_reservations@fourseasons.com or call the Hotel’s Reservations Team at 03-2382-8788. To book dining or spa experiences, call +603 2382 8888 For more info, head over to https://www.fourseasons.com/kualalumpur/     Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur This Valentine’s Day, Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur invites lovebirds to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a memorable dining experience at the city’s true urban sanctuary. At Lemon Garden 2Go, get a gift for your partner with Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur’s Valentine’s Specials gift list – from strawberry dips, cupcakes, cookies in a jar to a cake pop bouquet. Promotion is available from 1st to 14th February 2020. At Lobby Lounge, treat your other half to the Valentine’s Afternoon Tea set specially curated to celebrate love, affection and intimacy. Indulge over a mixed selection of savouries and sweet delights such as Sesame Tuna Tataki, House Smoke Salmon Napoleon, Thai Thea Strawberry Cremeaux, Pistachio Strawberry Tart and plenty more. The Valentine’s Afternoon Tea set is priced at RM85 nett per person and guests may also add on one glass of Veuve Clicquot Ponsarding at RM150 nett per person. This promotion is available from 10th to 29th February 2020. For the single individuals out there, unwind and connect with the community at the Singles Party at Arthur’s Bar and Grill. Enjoy the Glorious Hours promotion from 3PM to 9PM offering discounted prices on every available drink. The Single’s Party will take place on Valentine’s Day, 14th February 2020. Within the Japanese community, Valentine’s Day is largely celebrated with the women gifting chocolates to the men. Switch it up and surprise your loved one to a 6-course set dinner menu exquisitely created for lovebirds at Zipangu (Japanese restaurant). Priced at RM326 nett per person, this promotion is available from 10th to 16th February 2020. Lafite will be having 6-course set dinner menu consisting of Hokkaido Scallop and Oyster Tartar, Lobster Royale, Duck Foie Gras Ravioli, Mandarin Orange with Grand Marnier, a choice between Sous Vide Turbot or Venison Loin and Raspberry Lychee Crème with White Chocolate Tonka Bean Ice Cream. Priced at RM298 nett per person and guests may also add on a choice of wine pairing at RM498 nett per person. Promotion is available on 13th and 14th February 2020. (Ed – As Lafite at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular restaurants to celebrate Valentine’s Day, we’d advise you to book immediately should you wish to dine there this 14 February.) For more information, head over to http://www.shangri-la-specials.com For reservations purposes, call Restaurant Reservations at 03-2074 3900 or email RestaurantReservations.slkl@shangri-la.com     St. Regis Kuala Lumpur Telephone: 03-2727 1111 Website: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulxr-the-st-regis-kuala-lumpur/     The Westin Kuala Lumpur Prego    Splash Telephone: +603-27738338 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westinkl/       Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara This slideshow requires JavaScript. This Valentine’s Day, Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara has put together a selection of experiences, ranging from a romantic meal to a pampering day at the award-winning So SPA that is sure to ignite sparks between loved ones. KWEE ZEEN Looking for the perfect dining destination to celebrate love or profess your love to your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day? Head over to Kwee Zeen and surprise your loved ones with an epicurean buffet experience, overflowing with sumptuous Valentine’s Day creations and sweet treats. Each couple will be presented with a rose to celebrate the occasion. Date:  14th February 2020 Time: 6.30pm to 10.00pm Price: RM158.00nett per adult   NIZZA Whether it is for a lover, friend or family member, Valentine’s Day is a day for affection. With Nizza’s lavish selection of sharing platters, you will have numerous reasons to gather your friends and loved ones for some indulgence this Valentine’s Day. Feast on a specially curated sharing platter of juicy premium meats smoked and grilled to perfection, juicy fresh seafood as well as a spectacular selection of desserts to end your meal. Date:  14th February 2020 Time: 6.30pm to 10.00pm (Price varies based on the item ordered)   LE BAR COCKTAIL & STORIES Nothing spells romance quite like a leisurely afternoon with your loved one this Valentine’s Day. Le Bar Cocktail & Stories is embracing the spirit of Valentine’s Day by transforming its much-loved afternoon tea with a romantic twist. Specially crafted by the hotel’s Pastry Chef Abu Hamidy Abu Samah, the special St. Valentine’s Day afternoon tea will include a delicious array of Valentine-inspired treats. Between 10 and 16 February, there will be a live piano performance by Dominique Bodin, the world-acclaimed pianist, and composer to add a bit more romance to the occasion. Celebrate the month of love over a delectable afternoon tea of delicate pastries, freshly baked scones and Nespresso coffee or your choice of tea. Do you believe in love at first sip? Then you shouldn’t miss the Valentine’s Day special cocktail, ‘Mint to be Love’. Raise a toast and make it an occasion to remember with your loved ones. Date:  1st to 29th February 2020 from 12.00noon to 4.00pm Price: RM128.00nett per adult (Valentine’s Day Cocktail: RM42.00nett per glass)   UNWIND TOGETHER Surprise your loved one with some well-deserved pampering at the award-winning So SPA. Kick start the romantic journey with a 150-minutes ‘Be My Valentine Package’ that includes a 60-minute So Exhilarating Body Massage, 60-minute So Rejuvenating Facial followed by a 30-minute Lavender Steamy Me. Complete the experience with our St. Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea inclusive of Nespresso coffee or your choice of tea. Alternatively, choose a specific treatment and purchase a gift voucher for that someone special. Time: 10.00am to 10.00pm from 1st to 29th February 2020 Prices: RM1, 978.00nett for two persons inclusive of Nespresso coffee or your choice of tea/ RM2, 178.00nett for two persons inclusive of two glasses of champagne For enquiries and reservations, please email HA123-FB2@SOFITEL.COM or call (03) 2720 6688.     Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur This slideshow requires JavaScript. Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur is set to host romantic gourmet treats that have been specially created to commemorate this Valentine’s Day at PRIME, Favola, Gastro Sentral, Latest Recipe and Art Cacao. Ladies will receive a stalk of red rose each that evening. The award-winning PRIME sets the mood for the occasion with a specially composed 5-course dinner menu featuring highlights such as Lightly Poached Fine de Claire Oysters with Preserved Yuzu Caviar, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Sabayon, Foie Gras Au Torchon with Pickled Cherries served with Baby Arugula and Fresh Mint Salad with Brioche Croutons, the 300-Days Grilled Australian Wagyu Tenderloin, Potato and Porcini Charlotte, finished with Morel Mushrooms with Aged Balsamic Reduction and Berries Almond Tart with Raspberry Mousse, Hazelnut Gianduja Macaroon and Lemongrass Ice-Cream with Praline Powder. Available from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, it is priced at RM 600nett per couple or RM 320nett per person. At Favola, embark on a specially crafted 4-course menu of Cured King Fish Carpaccio with Macerated Grapes, Salmon Roe and Arenkha Caviar, and Microgreen Salad on the side, Seared Foie Gras with Homemade Onion Budino,  Caramelized Baby Pears and Light Thyme Duck Jus, Creamy Carnaroli Risotto with Taleggio Cheese, Poached Eggs and Black Truffle, Marinated and Pan Roasted Cod with Prawns and Scallop Skewer, Spinach Tart and Lobster Velouté to name a few. The 4-course Valentine’s dinner at Favola is priced at RM 480nett per couple or RM 260nett per person. Over at Gastro Sentral, indulge in a specially-crafted ‘Adam & Eve’s Valentine’s Day 4-course Set Menu’. Begin with ‘Love at First Bite’ featuring Seared Japanese Hamachi, Lobster Pithivier, Asparagus Veloute with Wasabi and Crispy Potato Salad. A ‘Love Potion #9’ will be served before the couple moves on to the main courses ‘Spring of Love’. For him, expect a Warm Orange-Apple Glazed Smoked Duck featuring Duck Live ‘Man Tao’ with Vanilla Pumpkin and Poached Potato with Salted Duck Egg. For her, indulge in Atlantic Cod Cake with Crab Potato Pudding, Caviar and Confit Tomato Salad. For a sweet finale, end it with Mango Locco – a combination of Mango Custard, Pineapple Curd, Coconut Rock, Mango Pineapple Compote and Lemongrass Ice-Cream. The ‘Adam & Eve’s Valentine’s Day 4-Course Set Menu’ is priced at RM 420nett per couple (RM 500nett per couple for booth seating) or RM 240nett per person. Available for dinner only. Treat your loved one to a special dinner buffet at Latest Recipe. Priced at RM 198nett per person, be treated to a vibrant array of local and international flavours amidst a warm and contemporary dining atmosphere for a lovely, romantic evening. Available from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Art Cacao’s Valentine’s Special ‘Key To My Heart’ Red Velvet Cake is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Priced at RM 180nett per whole cake, this is available upon request within 24 hours. Couples who wish to take it up a notch can also celebrate the season of love and the romance of travel (avec amour) with Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur’s Avec Amour Stay Package. Available until 31 May 2020, couples can indulge in a destination- inspired chocolate welcome amenity and add a little effervescence to the evening with a complimentary Sparkling Kir Royale cocktail with a twist. The package is inclusive of daily breakfasts for two persons. Room reservations can be made at https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-deals/kulmd-le-meridien-kuala-lumpur/ For reservations or more info, call +603 2263 7434, e-mail dining.lmkl@lemeridien.com or visit http://www.lemeridienkualalumpur.com     Impiana KLCC Hotel Impiana KLCC Hotel in Partnership with Aquaria KLCC In partnership with Aquaria KLCC, Impiana KLCC Hotel presents a unique and hugely memorable Valentine’s Day dining experience under the serene ambience of the state-of-the-art oceanarium of Aquaria KLCC. A cute Impiana signature teddy bear will accompany you home afterwards. Limited seating available as it is an exclusive private affair, so be quick to seize the moment. Friday, 14 February 2020 from 8.00pm – 10.30pm at Aquaria KLCC, Jalan Pinang, priced at RM600nett per couple.   Cedar on 15 For those who prefer an elevated and open sky environment 15 storeys above, Cedar on 15 will be having a romantic dinner featuring a 6- course fine dining, choice of wine and accompanying romantic music for an intimate night under the stars. Guests will also be given a parcel of praline confectionary to bring home. Friday, 14 February 2020 from 7.00pm – 10.30pm priced at RM258.00+ per person.   Tonka Bean Café & Deli As for couples who are just starting their heartfelt journey of love, Tonka Bean Café & Deli offers a luscious Valentine’s Day- themed buffet spread. Perfect for a casual dinner between two souls where love is starting to bud. Expect a sumptuous buffet of western palates mixed with Malaysian cuisine as well as a touch of European cuisine for a wholesome dining experience. Complete the night with an offering for your sweet tooth of Baskin & Robbins ice cream, as you gaze into your partner’s eyes while both of you hold the little Impiana signature teddy bear to take home to with delight and passion. Friday, 14 February 2020 from 07.00pm – 10.30pm priced at RM168.00+ Per Person   For dining enquiries or reservations at Aquaria KLCC, call Syafiqah at 03-2147 1111 or 017- 321 6736. For dinner enquiries and reservations at Cedar on 15 and Tonka Bean Café & Deli at Impiana KLCC Hotel, call 03- 2147 1111 or e-mail fnbsecretary.iklcc@impiana.com Impiana KLCC Hotel is also offering room packages in conjunction with Valentine’s Day. For more information and reservations, call the hotel’s reservations department at 03-2147 1111 or email reservation.iklcc@impiana.com     The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur This slideshow requires JavaScript. For inquiries or reservations, telephone 03 7843 1234, ext. 6122 or email dine@thesaujana.com Website: https://www.saujanahotels.com/promotions/amore-infinito Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSaujanaHotel/     Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur Celebrate the most romantic day at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur with a selection of exceptional dining experiences at Gobo Chit Chat, Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill and SkyBar.     ETERNAL LOVE Exclusive Cabana Package SkyBar Kuala Lumpur is all set to celebrate Valentine’s Day on 14 February with an exclusive package for all the lovebirds out there to dine with an unobstructed view of Petronas Twin Towers at Level 33. 14 February 2020, Friday at SkyBar Kuala Lumpur, Level 33 priced at MYR 68,888 nett per couple A “branded” diamond ring Chilled seafood bucket Chocolate for dessert A bottle of Dom Perignon champagne A dozen roses for the lady Specially decorated romantic cabana seating Advanced reservation required   Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill and Gobo Chit Chat Make a date, cupid at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill has created a special ‘love-inspired’ menu for Valentine’s Day. This year, the chefs and team are excited to present an exclusive 6-course menu prepared using the finest ingredient, priced at RM 595 nett per couple including two glasses of Veuve Clicquot and a rose for the lady. Meanwhile at Gobo Chit Chat, guest can feast on a vast seafood buffet spread, offering more than 140 types of food selection. Experience the freshest catch of seafood such as prawns, crabs, baby lobsters, oysters and more on 14 and 15 February from 6.30pm to 10.30pm at RM 188 nett per person. For reservations, call +603 2332 9818 or email fbreservation.thkl@shangri-la.com     Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral Bed of smoked salmon, mesclun, miniature vegetables and cherry tomato in mustard seed dressing Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral’s W XYZ Bar will put couples in the mood for love this Valentine’s Day with a private space behind a plush red curtain, candles, and a four-course menu featuring a refreshing (and guilt-free) smoked salmon salad, a heart-warming bowl of Saffron and Corn Chowder, choice of Pan Seared Barramundi, or the 6-hours Slow Cooked Beef Cheek. End the meal with a classic duo of W XYZ’s homemade Tiramisu & Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Gelato. You can opt to pair your meal with a journey through Italy for an additional RM100/person, where you will get three (3) varieties of Italian wines: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, and Banfi. 6 hour slow-cooked beef cheek Pan-seared barramundi on capsicum quinoa (1) Sticky date pudding with vanilla gelato and a tomato, strawberry and cherry mascarpone crumble For couples with a bigger appetite, all-day dining restaurant Nook has a buffet spread with highlights such as the fresh seafood station – slipper lobster, mussels, scallops, prawns and more, roast lamb from the live carving station, Nook’s Signature Assam Pedas, Swedish Meatballs, Pan Seared Seabass, and more. There will be over 15 types of local and international desserts to choose from, such as the Pink Chocolate Fountain, Raspberry Crème Brulee, Heart-shaped Mango Cake, and Valentine’s cupcakes. W XYZ’s four-course dinner is priced at RM288 nett per couple (including mocktails), while Nook’s Valentine’s Day buffet is priced at RM128 nett per person. Both promotions are available only on 14 February 2020 from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. For reservations and more information, call (60) 3 2723 1154 or head over to http://www.aloftkualalumpursentral.com       Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur Capture the heart of your special someone for an intimate dinner for two at Still Waters in Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur, which includes personalised flower arrangement at the Flower Bar, where you get to pick and arrange your choice of flowers into a flower gift box to take home. Snap a photo of your flower box and share it on Instagram (ensure that your profile is set to public) tagging @hotelmayakualalumpur to be in the running to win a weekend stay in a Junior Suite with breakfast for two, valued at RM780. The romantic evening continues with dinner by candlelight, flowers, and love songs serenaded by a 2-piece stroller band. Indulge in the 4-course menu which includes Canadian poached Scallop, served chilled with Mango Salsa and Pesto Basil Dressing; Chicken Consommé served with Shimeji Mushroom, Spinach and Mushroom Ravioli. For mains, diners will have a choice of Grain Fed Ribeye marinated in Rosemary and Thyme, Asparagus and Hollandaise Sauce; Herb-crusted Norwegian Salmon served with sautéed Asparagus, Salmon Roe and Normandy Sauce or Baked Herb Chicken Thigh with Barbecue-Pineapple Sauce, Polenta and assorted Vegetables. End the dinner with a sweet finale of Raspberry White Chocolate and Mixed Berries Compote. The Valentine’s Day Dinner at Still Waters in Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur is available on 14 February 2020, priced at RM380nett per couple including two glasses of Prosecco or Mocktail and a personal hand-picked box of flowers to take home. Enjoy 15% off, when you book before 10 February 2020. Price includes the prevailing tax and a prepayment is required by 10 February to enjoy 15% off. For restaurant reservations, call +603 2333 1360 or visit www.hotelmaya.com.my      Hilton Kuala Lumpur With a very unique offering, Hilton Kuala Lumpur invites lovebirds to create beautiful memories  over a plethora of romantic dining options – from modern European fare, western classic dishes to tasty Japanese cuisine.    Graze Hilton Kuala Lumpur’s modern European brasserie, Graze, introduces a Valentine’s Day 5-course set menu. Enjoy the authentic European delicacies prepared by Chef Darius Seitfudem, served alongside 3 glasses of Piper Heidsieck Champagne. The restaurant’s intimate décor and lighting will take you on a journey through France all the way to Italy.   The Valentine’s Day set dinner starts with an appetizer of Fresh Imperial Dutch Oyster. The main event features Soft Shell Prawn Bloody Mary, followed by a Braised Duck Tortellini. In between, refresh your taste buds with a Watermelon-Lychee Sorbet. Conclude the evening on a sweet note with a Valentine’s dessert for two with a Piper Heidsieck Rosé.. Ladies will receive a red rose and chocolate. Available from 13 -15 February 2020, from 6:30pm – 10:30pm, the dinner is priced at RM438 nett per couple (+RM200 nett per person for additional champagne pairing). Iketeru (Japanese Restaurant) For an exotic Asian treat, Iketeru, Hilton Kuala Lumpur’s premium Japanese restaurant offers a Valentine’s special for Japanese cuisine lovers. A 5-course set menu pairs flavours and texture, like sashimi and Temari sushi, deep fried Ganmodoki tofu with vegetables, Teppanyaki grilled sirloin beef and many more.  The dinner comes with chocolate praline as giveaway. The restaurant is open from 12:00pm – 2:30pm for lunch, and from 6:30pm – 10:30pm for dinner. Available from 13 – 15 February 2020, it is priced at RM460 nett per couple, RM150 nett per person for sake pairing and RM200 nett per person for champagne pairing. Vasco’s Expand the Valentine’s dinner horizon at Vasco’s, where you can indulge in a mix of eclectic flavors and watch chefs in action in the open kitchen. It features signature-roasted meats, which includes prime ribs and splendid seafood selection with fresh oysters. The desserts include chocolate fondant, heart-shaped macaron, chocolate éclair and chocolate dipped strawberries. Available on 14 February 2020, the buffet dinner starts from 6:30pm – 10:30pm and is priced at RM188 nett per adult, RM120 nett per adult with additional free flow of selected beverages and RM68 nett per child. Aviary Bar As a prelude to an evening of romance, Aviary Bar presents specially concocted Valentine’s cocktails such as Chemical Romance, Love Ascend, Cupid Kiss and many more. Available from 1 – 29 February 2020, the drink is priced at RM68 nett per glass from 5:00pm – 12:00am. A special discount is available for Hilton Dining APAC members and selected credit cardholders. Telephone: 03-2264 2264 Website: https://www.life.hiltonkl.com/     DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur Celebrate this special day of romance with your loved one with a specially-curated 4-course dinner by the poolside as the band serenades you at Tosca at DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur. Savour dishes like the Live Oyster appetizer, Mushroom Consommé Soup, Black Angus Beef with Green Peas Puree, Potato Fondant and Pink Peppercorn Jus or Salmon Trout with Wilted Spinach, Cream of Cauliflower, Clams Reduction Sauce and Basil Oil. Finish off the meal with our Trio of Dessert consisting Baby Vanilla Macaroon, Dragon Fruit Panna Cotta, Grapefruit Sorbet, Crispy Almond Crostillant and Meringue Biscuit.   14 February 2020 | 6.30pm – 10.30pm From RM 260 nett per couple | Stand a chance to win a 2D1N stay by sharing & tagging your picture on social media | Prior reservation is required For reservations, call +603 2172 7272 or email KULDT_FB@hilton.com     Hilton Petaling Jaya Genji Japanese Restaurant at Hilton Petaling Jaya offers the perfect ambience for you and your partner to have your fill of tasty Japanese cuisine where you can enjoy an exquisite six-course meal by Chef Richard. This is a cosy and intimate place where the skilled chefs prepare modern and unique dishes such as the Sawanotsuru Deluxe – Garden greens with fruits salad in sesame dressing, Kubota Senjyu – Fillets of fresh salmon and yellowtail sashimi with soy dipping and wasabi, Ozeki Daiginjyo – Combination of grill cod fish with sweet miso paste and wagyu beef with salt and pepper and more. 14 February 2020 from 6.30pm – 10.30pm priced at RM300 nett per person / RM599 nett per couple Prior reservation is required | HDAP & standard bank discounts are applicable For reservations, call +603 7955 9122 or email PETHI_FB@hilton.com       DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru For lovebirds who are seeking the ultimate Italian dining experience, enjoy the charming 4–course set dinner at Tosca to spice things up with your loved one. The menu features Chicken Consommé, Black Angus Beef Tenderloin ‘Agro Dolce’, Mango coconut Dome and more. Take part in the Best Couple Photo contest and stand a chance to win yourself a romantic weekend getaway. 10 – 16 February 2020 from 6.30pm – 10.30pm priced at RM399 nett per couple Prior reservation is required | Standard Hilton Dining APAC & bank discounts are applicable For reservations, call +607 2686 868 or email JHBDT_FB@hilton.com          Hilton Kuching It’s that time of year to put your best foot forward and court your beloved on Valentine’s Day at the Waterfront Café! Spend a romantic evening with a delightful 4-course dinner that includes Courtship moments – Island Grown Watermelon Heart with Bouquet Salad Crafted Feta Cheese, Avocado Puree, Meeting the family – Sour & Sweet Strawberry Mint Sorbet. Choose your main course from Himalayan Salt-aged Filler Steak or Slow Baked Lemon & Thyme Salmon both served with Sweet Potato and Broccoli with Garlic Butter Cashews and end your evening with Forever Love dessert – Raspberry Red Velvet Crepe Mille-Feuille with Pomelo Salsa & Vanilla Ice Cream. 14 February 2020 | 6.00pm – 10.30pm RM175 nett per person| Prior reservation is required | Standard bank discounts are applicable For reservations, call +6082 223 888 or email KUCHI_FB@hilton.com       DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka Tosca Spoil your loved one with an Italian twist at Tosca with a specially designed 5-course set dinner. The highlights include Love at First Sight – confit of quail with Granny Smith crispy Vietnamese and olive oil jam, Declaration of Love – warm salad of spiced scallop and prawn, Sealed with Kiss – shellfish bisque, crabmeat and lobster dumpling with milk foam and many more. Be sure to leave room for Two is Better than One – raspberry chocolate cake, citrus crème Catalana, raspberry sorbet and orange stewed as a sweet ending. There is a 10% discount for our wedding packages if you get engaged on this special day. 14 February 2020 | 6.30pm – 10.30pm RM178 nett per set menu | Make your reservation now to receive a door gift   For reservations, call +606 222 3333 or email MKZMM_FB@hilton.com    Makan Kitchen Get in the mood for love this Valentine’s Day as you indulge in exquisite local specialties offered by Makan Kitchen. Stimulate your palates with signature dishes such as Truly Madly Deeply – black angus striploin with roasted pumpkin, medley vegetables with black pepper sauce, Malay Special – Nasi Kukus Pandan, Ayam Percik Kuah Panggang, Sayur Lemak Nenas Ikan Masin, Western Special – Jambalaya rice grilled with Mediterranean chicken, baked fish fillet with orange cilantro sauce, lamb stroganoff with baby vegetables ragout, cauliflower au-gratin, roasted farmer potato and herb. Cap off your evening with Sweet Ending dessert – British’s banoffee pie, French’s éclair, New Zealand’s pavlova, Australian’s lamington and Korean’s bingsu. 14 February 2020 | 6.30pm – 10.30pm RM128 nett per adult | Make your reservation now to receive a door gift | Standard Hilton Dining APAC & bank discounts are applicable For reservations, call +606 222 3333 or email MKZMM_FB@hilton.com         DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang    Sparks will fly as you wine and dine with your loved one at the Poolside Bar under a starry sky accompanied by a live band performance. Tuck into an array of delights like Pacific Crab Timbale, Char Grilled Chill Silver Fern Lamb Rack, Stuffed Chicken Breast, Perchik Cheese Gratin Oyster topped with mango salsa, Lychee Cream Brulee with plum relish and many more. The set menu includes a welcome drink, complimentary bottle of wine or sparkling juice, rose for ladies and chocolate cigar for men. 14 – 15 February 2020 | 6.00pm – 10.00pm RM498 nett per adult | Prior reservation is required | Join the Best-dressed Couple Photo Contest and stand a chance to win amazing prizes For reservations, call +604 8928 000 or email PENMB_FBD@hilton.com         Beautifleurs Florist Valentine’s Bear – RM350 Heart Shaped Red Roses Bouquet – RM250 Surprise Me Box – RM350 Angel Box – RM280 Mixed Flower Bouquet – RM350 Only for You – RM200   Telephone: 012-4026405 (Ying) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beautifleurs/     Photo Credits: Respective hotels/ restaurants/ florist, and author’s own Cover Photo: Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/03/06/chinese-new-year-2018-with-the-6th-generation-hyundai-elantra-sport-1-6-turbo-gdi/

Chinese New Year 2018 with the (6th Generation) Hyundai Elantra Sport 1.6 Turbo GDi

[Automobiles]   Not too long ago, I got to play with the new Hyundai Elantra 2.0 Dynamic (which you can read about here – https://timchew.net/2018/01/03/a-date-with-the-6th-generation-hyundai-elantra-2-0/) which was a pretty decent C-segment offering from the Korean automaker. I was though, really very excited to test-drive the new Hyundai Elantra Sport over Chinese New Year even though I was staying in Kuala Lumpur and not heading outstation (who wants to sit in a 10 hour jam anyway?). The Hyundai Elantra Sport shares many features with the 2.0 Dynamic variant which I won’t repeat as you can read about them on my previous feature. However the biggest difference would be the new powerful powertrain which is a  Gamma 1.6 Turbo-GDI that is mated with to an ECOSHIFT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (the 2.0 Dynamic variant came with a 2.0l normally aspirated engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission). The Gamma 1.6 Turbo GDI (T-GDI) four-cylinder engine generates 204 PS at 6,000 rpm and 265Nm of torque at 1,500-4,500 rpm and was really happy to rev with little noticeable turbo lag. The engine was really responsive especially when paired with the Sport mode, making the Elantra Sport a really fun and exciting ride! I took it up the hills of Ampang to visit Evian, and had so much power on tap that it was one exhilarating drive up the windy and steep roads! It really surprised me as the Elantra was a full-sized C-segment sedan and not a German hot hatch. While I do like hot hatches as they are easy to park and nippy through traffic, the lack of a full boot does make it rather inconvenient sometimes. With the Elantra Sport, you get to have your cake and eat it! Meaning to say that you can have the fun of a ride with remarkable acceleration coupled with great handling (she stuck to the road like glue thanks to the rather stiff suspension, large rims and low profile tires), plus the convenience of a large boot to put your hold bags, or baby pram if you’re a family man. During weekdays when you’re stuck in a jam commuting to work or fetching the kids to school, you can set the engine to Eco mode which upshifts earlier and saves fuel. There’s also the normal mode is a balance between the two modes however most of the time I was driving in either Eco or Sport mode. This makes the Elantra Sport one heck of a great package for the young family man who is a weekend warrior.   The “Blazing Yellow” colour was well suited for Chinese New Year and many of my friends commented on how eye-catching it was! Sleek and sporty from every angle. The sport rims were of a different design compared to the 2.0 Dynamic variant. Took it up another hill – this time Bukit Gasing Yes I’m still eligible to COLLECT ang paus he he!   Other features of the Elantra Sport (which are not available in the other Elantra variants) include the fully leather seats with a really sporty red trim, Blind Spot Detection, High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, and “intelligent features” such as an Auto Defogging System, Dual Zone Auto Climate Control and Rain-Sensing Wipers. The HID headlights not only look really cool, but also offer optimized illumination for the bends and curves, AND its angle can be adjusted up and down (but please keep it angled down unless you’re driving along a secluded and dark road and absolutely need it angled higher). The Blind Spot Detection which essentially is an icon which lights up on the wing mirrors when there is an automobile or motorcycle in the blind spot, is a really handy safety feature, especially on Malaysian roads where motorcyclists weave in between traffic with little regard for safety.    420 litres of luggage space and if you need more the rear seats can be folded down The red and black leather seats made this one heck of a sporty interior! All the controls (including manual gear paddle shifts, AV, multi-function display, cruise control) were on the steering wheel The reverse camera made for easy reverse parking while the audio visual player comes with navigation as well as Android Auto and Apple Car Play Sporty metal pedals The driver’s seat comes with an 8-ways mechanical type power seat with lumbar support. My spine is pretty straight so I didn’t really need the lumbar support but those who have a more curved spine will find the support useful as it lessens back fatigue especially when driving long distance Sufficiently roomy leg room in the rear Out CNY visiting with May Attending a CNY dinner with Kassey   The Hyundai Elantra Sport is priced at RM131,488 (On the road price without insurance, for Peninsular Malaysia). All Elantra variants are entitled to 50,000km of free service with a three-year validity. For more info, head over to https://www.hyundai.com.my/    So fun to drive that I almost didn’t want to give it back… Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2011/05/07/amber-chia-cinco-de-mayo-and-arthurs-bday/

Amber Chia, Cinco de Mayo and Arthur’s B’day

It was another busy week for me which is why I really appreciate my weekends. Not that attending events is dreary or not fun just that doing it every weekday night is really energy sapping (sadly I remind myself that I’m not 21 years old anymore). So anyway here’s what went on this week… Cinco de Mayo Party at Las Carretas Ampang. Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for 5th of May) is a festival in Mexico to commemorate the Battle of Puebla where 4,000 poorly armed Mexican soldiers defeated 8,000 French soldiers Mussels In Coriander & Habanero - RM23.90 with Garlic Bread - RM3.50 - Black Mussels Lightly Simmered in Its Own Broth & Flavored with Fresh Coriander Spiced with Habaneros. This was so good we ordered 2 portions and finished both! Beef Backribs - RM45.90 - Marinated With Chili, Jalapenos & Our Unique Blend Of Seasoning & Char-Broiled To Perfection. Served With Barbeque Sauce Or Black Pepper Sauce. A must-order for meat eaters!!! So tender and juicy! The Cinco de Mayo party at Las Carretas was jointly organised by Las Carretas and Corona (which we had quite a bit to say the least haha!). We had a lot more food that night. Check out the rest of the dishes on my Facebook page. The food at Las Carretas was simply awesome comprising some of my fav foods – meat, cheese and chilli!!! Find out more about them on their website www.lascarretas.com Check out the Cinco de Mayo official press release after the jump below. Amber was so impressed with the Malaysia's Hottest Bloggers babes which she met at the Kronenbourg 1664 French Fashion Soiree that she invited them to attend her academy's first graduation ceremony and fashion show at 1 Utama Shopping Centre. Second time I bumped into the sexy Alexis this week. This time serving my fav French beer - Kronenbourg 1664 MHB's Nicole, Chrystal, Stephanie and Naomi got front seats at the show! Thanks Amber! Check out the official press release for this event after the jump. While I was lurking around snapping photos of the pretty veteran models who were in attendance. In this pic is the hot Esther Tan (2nd from right) with her friends. Then on to Arthur Tan's birthday party at Mon't Kiara. Here's Andy getting a token of appreciation for being the official photographer of the night. Spotted cute Cindy (L) and Elaine (R) with their friend there too! More photos from all three (3) events are on my Facebook page (click here). [Official Press Release] -Corona Extra brings you Cinco De Mayo- Corona Extra in collaboration with Las Carretas Restaurant will be bringing the annual celebration of Cinco De Mayo to Malaysia. This big Mexican Fiesta is celebrated all across Mexico to commemorate the 1862 victory of the 4,000 ill equipped Mexican soldiers over the 8,000 well-equipped French invaders. Apart from celebrating Mexican heritage and pride, Cinco De Mayo is also a place to feast on Mexican food and to participate in a variety of Mexican activities. “Corona Extra is proud to be the sponsor of Cinco De Mayo as it embodies the best of Mexico hence allowing guests to truly experience the ultimate Mexican experience,” says Soren Ravn, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia. This fiesta apart from giving guests the ultimate Cinco De Mayo experience, will also see to guests being served the best of Mexican cuisine prepared by Las Carretas Restaurant. Guests will be able to look forward to Mexican dishes such as guacamole, nachos, tortillas, and chilli to name a few. Venue: Las Carretas, 22 Persiaran Ampang, 55000, Kuala Lumpur For reservations, kindly contact Las Carretas Ampang at 03-4257 1668 /info@lascarretas.com About Corona Extra Found in more than 150 countries, Corona is one of the most highly recognized Mexican products in the world. This refreshing beer, with its signature light straw color, is Mexico’s leading national brand. Addition to that, it ranks as the #1 selling Mexican beer in the world and is now distributed in Malaysia by Carlsberg Malaysia. AMBER CHIA ACADEMY’S INAUGURAL GRADUATION SHOW – SPRING/SUMMER 2011 Amber Chia Academy has proudly produced its first batch of graduates. Professionally trained and groomed at the helm of international model Amber Chia, along with the expertise of catwalk guru Benjamin Toong, makeup master Desmond Yoi and photographer extraordinaire Azrul Kevin Abdullah, fifty-five students graduated at the Amber Chia Academy Inaugural Graduation Show at 1 Utama Shopping Centre’s “Fashion on One” Fashion Week. In a grand celebration that was emceed by Daphne Iking and TP Lim, graduating students took to the runway for a fashion show, parading casual wear by Bimba & Lola, couture wear by Keith Kee Couture and avant-garde designs by Carven Academy of Fashion. In addition, there was also a captivating makeup showcase of dramatic proportions. Since its inception in August 2010, Amber Chia Academy has provided its students with countless prospects as part of their courses. Even before graduating, students were given exclusive opportunities to work with some of Malaysia’s top designers such as Keith Kee and Carven Ong, as well as stints in FHM Girl Next Door Model Search, Women of Excellence Summit 2010, Future of Success Summit 2010 and many more. Other beauty and fashion events that featured collaboration with gurus and students of Amber Chia Academy included some of the industry’s big names such as Roxy, Pantene, Olay, Redken and Ginvera, just to name a few. After the fashion show, graduates received their graduation certificates in the presence of over 300 guests, which included fashionista Gillian Hung; designers Andrew Gan, Key Ng, Keith Kee, Allan Chan and Tino Soon from Salabianca; celebrities Alan Yun and Angel Wong; celebrity models Stefanie Chua, Wilson Tan, Danny Lim, Eleen Yong, Ian Ong and Isaac Ong; Andrew Tan from Andrewsmodels, Melvin Cheong from Catwalk Productions and founder of the Malaysia Book of Records Datuk Danny Ooi. Also present were family members of the graduates and members of the media. Amber Chia Academy also presented awards for Most Promising Male & Female Models, Best Photography, Best Makeup Presentation and Best Dramatic Walk to outstanding students at the show. “I cannot be anymore prouder of all my students especially to see the models, makeup artists and photographers that they have grown to become. I am sincerely glad that their time at Amber Chia Academy has provided ample opportunities for them to gain a solid head-start in pursuing their passions, and I wish them all the best on their respective paths“, said principal Amber Chia, beaming with pride. With the launch of Amber Chia Academy Melaka in December 2010, Amber Chia Academy is currently school to over 300 students. In March 2011, model Ethel Cho, an international runway veteran, was brought in as modeling coach, joining an esteemed team of eleven other instructors to share her wealth of experience and knowledge with students. Leading international brand Canon generously acted as the main sponsor of the graduation show, which was also collaboratively sponsored by Philips. Other sponsors of the graduation show include Celmonze, Triumph, Kronenbourg, Celebrity Fitness, Runway Productions, 807 Studio and 1 Utama Shopping Centre. The rest of the year is set to be an exciting time for Amber Chia Academy as its expansion plans involve the opening of another academy in Penang in June, as well as introduction of new and advanced courses unlike any other in Malaysia, which include interesting makeup techniques, technology and certification in collaboration with Korea Pro Makeup Association (KPMA). A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Amber Chia and KPMA President Ahn Mi- Ryeo, at the official launch of the 2011 Makeup Festival Award in Seoul, South Korea last Saturday (April 30th) evening. Through this deal, Amber Chia Academy propelled Malaysia to be only the third country, after China and Taiwan, offering exclusive makeup courses recognised and certified by Korea. Also, just the day before (April 29th), Amber Chia scored yet another deal by signing a MoU with Korea Model Association (KMA) chairman Yang Eui-Sig. KMA is the only government-sanctioned body under South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and they prestigiously appointed Amber Chia Academy as the exclusive representative to select top models from Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong for the prestigious Asia Model Festival Award; and scout for up-and-coming models for the annual Asia New Face Model Search. AMBERCHIA ACADEMY SDN. BHD. B-23-6 JAYA ONE ● 72A JALAN UNIVERSITI ● PETALING JAYA ● 46200 ● SELANGOR ● MALAYSIA T +60 3 7960 8010 ● F +60 3 7960 8211 ● E ACADEMY@AMBERCHIA.COM ● W WWW.AMBERCHIA.COM/ACADEMY Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/03/20/naza-italia-maseratis-10th-anniversary-celebration-and-launch-of-the-levante-vulcano-limited-edition-in-malaysia/

Naza Italia – Maserati’s 10th Anniversary Celebration and Launch of the Levante Vulcano Limited Edition in Malaysia

[Automotive] This slideshow requires JavaScript.   2019 marks ten eventful years since the first Maserati automobiles arrived on Malaysia’s shores in 2009 through the sole importer and distributor in Malaysia – Naza Italia – Maserati, which over the years introduced a wide range of Maserati models, and created a full lifestyle and ownership experience for Malaysian clients. To mark the momentous occasion, Naza Italia – Maserati held a 10th Anniversary celebration on 13 March 2019 at the Maserati flagship centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Naza Italia – Maserati’s 45,000 square feet flagship centre in Petaling Jaya is a state-of-the-art 4S showroom and service centre that was inaugurated in 2009 and refurbished in 2015 to meet Maserati’s global brand identity. Present at the 10th Anniversary celebration was En. SM Nasarudin Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive Chairman of Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn. Bhd. who attributed the distributor’s success to Maserati’s innovation and the dedication and commitment of Malaysian team to the brand and business. He explained: “We commenced our journey as the Malaysian home of Maserati by launching the Maserati GranTurismo Sports and Quattroporte Sport GTS. This was quickly followed by the introduction of GranCabrio. 2014 was our turning point when we introduced the highly-anticipated Ghibli, an elegant and yet sporty sedan, which was very well accepted by the Malaysia market.” Subsequently in 2016, Naza Italia-Maserati achieved its next milestone by launching the ‘Maserati of SUVs’, the Levante. In the last few years, the distributor has introduced at least three each year of upgrades and face-lifts of the various models. “Thanks to Maserati’s continuous innovation, we are able to delight the most discerning tastes of our Malaysian clientele with a comprehensive product line-up that is stylish, refined, technologically excellent and innately exclusive,” said En. Nasarudin. The celebration of Naza Italia-Maserati’s 10th Anniversary kicks off with the entrance of theMaserati MC12. A limited production model, only 62 of these units were ever produced. Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO of the Automotive Division, Naza CorporationHoldings, at the Naza Italia-Maserati’s 10th Anniversary Celebration, speaking about Naza ItaliaMaserati’s 10 years of success in Malaysia Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO of the Automotive Division at Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn. Bhd. emphasised the flagship centre represents Naza Italia – Maserati’s commitment towards the brand and clientele in Malaysia. He said: “We strive to make the entire experience of owning a Maserati unique and sensational – from the moment you walks through the doors of our showroom, to the point of your car’s delivery and the dedicated after service. To this commitment, and to the delight of Maserati fans and enthusiasts in northern Peninsular Malaysia, the I am pleased to announce that plans are in the pipeline for network expansion in Penang”. The limited edition Maserati Levante-Vulcano was next to be showcased. There are only150 units of this exclusive model available worldwide; out of those, only 10 units are available inMalaysia. The limited-edition model is available in the exclusive Lava Grigio shade in matte. As part of its 10th Anniversary celebration, Naza Italia – Maserati unveiled the limited edition SUV (sports utility vehicle), the Levante Vulcano Limited Edition, where only ten units will be available for the Malaysia market. The Levante represents the turning point in Maserati’s history, as the brand made its first foray into the world of luxury sport utility vehicles in its more than 100-year history. When the Levante was first launched in 2016, it also made a key contribution to completing the marque’s luxury and sporty fleet line-up. Since then, the Levante has been a popular addition to Malaysia’s luxury automotive market. “As such, it could not be more apt to mark Naza Italia-Maserati’s one decade of achievements with ten exclusive units of the limited edition Levante Vulcano for Malaysia” said Dato’ Samson. Mr. Luca Delfino, Head of Maserati Asia Pacific, sharing the details of the exclusive, limitededition Maserati Levante Vulcano. Only 10 units of the Levante Vulcano are available in Malaysia. The new Levante Vulcano is produced in a series of just 150 units for the European and Asian markets, including Malaysia. The units for Malaysia are available with twin-turbo V6 engine of 430 hp, as well as exclusive finishes and matte Grigio Lava colour exterior that comes with the new Vulcano logo and the words “one of 150”. Dato’ Samson closed his address with words of thanks. “We are grateful for the guidance and support of Maserati’s team at both regional global levels and the patronage of our loyal clients. We look forward to another decade of partnership and excellence to continue creating the Maserati ownership and luxury lifestyle experience for our clients here”. Filippo Caracciolo, Area Sales Manager of Maserati South-East Asia Pacific, Mr. Luca Delfino,Head of Maserati Asia Pacific; Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Division, NazaCorporation Holdings; Farid Sulaiman, Chief Operating Officer, Naza Italia-Maserati (Left to Right) This slideshow requires JavaScript.    The Naza Italia-Maserati showroom in Petaling Jaya is open for the public to view the Levante Vulcano and speak with Naza Italia – Maserati’s team in greater detail about Maserati’s newest offering. For more info, head over to @maserati.malaysia (on Instagram) or http://www.facebook/maserati.malaysia Photo credits: Naza Italia and author’s own . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/03/14/oppo-launches-all-new-find-x2-5g-series-in-malaysia/

OPPO Launches All-New Find X2 5G Series in Malaysia

[Tech/ Smartphones] OPPO officially launched its latest range of premium flagship devices under the banner of the Find X2 5G Series in Malaysia on 10 March 2020. As one of the first smartphones to be equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 mobile platform, the Find X2 5G and Find X2 5G Pro are 5G ready, while providing users with powerful performance and an amazing immersive experience, all in one package. The smartphones offer an immersive visual experience with a 6.78-inch QHD+ (1,440 x 3,168 pixels) AMOLED display. This AMOLED screen is the most advanced screen that OPPO has developed to-date, with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 240Hz sampling rate for ultra-smooth videos, a pixel density of 513ppi, a contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1 and a maximum brightness of 800nit. The display has 10-bit colour, which can display 1 billion colours, and can boost the brightness up to 1,200nit when viewing HDR content. These devices are also the first devices in the market that can convert normal video content into HDR-like content. The Find X2 series 5G supports Motion Clear – a video enhancement technology that can significantly increase the frame rate of videos that are below 30 fps, to 60 or even 120 fps. This allows fluid screen time when watching fast-paced videos. Complementing the display panel on the Find X2 Pro 5G is OPPO’s triple-camera Ultra Vision Camera system that received 1st place in DXOMark rating. The system is the first to support All Pixel omni-directional PDAF (Phase-detect auto focus) with 12-bit image capturing capabilities on a mobile device. The All Pixel omni-directional PDAF technology allows for lightning-fast autofocusing with up to a 97 per-cent success rate, while the 12-bit image capturing ensures maximum details are captured. Its main camera is a 48MP camera that is powered by a customised Sony IMX689 sensor. Additionally, there is a 48MP ultra wide-angle camera that is based on the Sony IMX586 sensor and a 13MP periscope telephoto camera that supports both optical and electronic stabilisation. When working in tandem, the Find X2 Pro has a hybrid zoom of 10x and a digital zoom up to 60x. For wide-angle shots, users have a maximum angle of 120 degrees to compose their shots. As for the Find X2 5G, it comes with a triple-camera system that is anchored by a primary 48MP camera. Wide-angle shots are handled by an 12MP wide-angle camera. Additionally, there is a 13MP telephoto camera that allows users to shoot with up to 5X hybrid zoom and 20X digital zoom. OPPO has updated its low-light camera algorithm and introduced Ultra Night Mode 3.0, which comes with the new Ultra Dark Mode for low-light photography. Both smartphones sport 32MP front-facing cameras that is supplemented by AI for selfies. For content creators that prefer shooting videos, the smartphone has Ultra Steady Video 2.0 and 10-bit Live HDR video recording. Furthermore, there is a 3-Mic audio recording system that not only offsets wind noise and enhances voices, but also captures 3D spatial audio. In addition to 5G speeds, the smartphones come with 65W SuperVOOC 2.0 flash charging technology, which lets users fully-charge the phone’s battery in 38 minutes. To ensure safe usage throughout the charging process, there are five levels of protection embedded into the power adapter, wire and device itself. There is a custom-designed battery safety monitoring chip in the smartphone that monitors the battery status during charging and tracks the battery health in real-time. Heat is managed via a VC thermal board and three layers of graphite covers. The Find X2 5G has a 4,200mAh battery, while the Find X2 Pro 5G has a 4,260mAh battery. The Find X2 Series features Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 mobile platform and the company’s X55 5G modem-RF System, which supports multi-gigabit speeds of up to 7.5 Gbps. This powerful mobile platform works in tandem with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.0 storage. LPDDR5 RAM supports data transfer rates of up to 5,500Mb/s, while UFS 3.0 storage offers sequential read and write speeds of up to 2,100 MB/s and 410 MB/s respectively. In terms of gaming capabilities, the Snapdragon 865 mobile is supplemented by the new Adreno 650 GPU, which comes with Qualcomm Snapdragon Elite Gaming features that supports any mobile game, with desktop-level performance. The Find X2 Series 5G are available in two editions – a black variant that uses ceramic and an orange variant that incorporates vegan leather. The ceramic variant is made using a micron-etching process, which results in a finish that is smooth and has anti-slip properties. The vegan leather version on the other hand is made with high-end PU environmentally friendly material that offers a soft and delicate finish. To against the elements, the OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G has an IP68 rating, while the OPPO Find X2 5G has an IP54 rating. Both devices run on OPPO’s ColorOS 7.1, which is based on the Android 10 OS. Developed with the objective to make navigating through the phone as intuitive as possible, OPPO focused on the aesthetics. ColorOS 7.1 offers reduced contrast for better eye comfort, standardised the look and feel of more than 200 third-party app icons and included a new Dark mode. There are also in-built apps for productivity that allow users to perform calls, schedule meetings, wireless print documents and more. The OPPO Find X2 5G will be available at RM3,999 while the OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G is at RM4,599. Consumers can pre-order both devices at every OPPO Concept Store, OPPO Official dealer stores or online at OPPO Official Website, e-commerce partners; telco partners namely Celcom, Maxis, Digi and OPPO Chain store partners Sen Heng, senQ, DirectD and also Aeon Credit. There is a pre-order promotion for both devices which will run from 6 March 2020 to 13 March 2020 for the OPPO Find X2 5G version, while the OPPO Find X2 Pro 5G pre-order promotion will run from 6 March 2020 to 20 March 2020. Customers who pre-ordered during the promotional period will receive a VOOC Flash charge powerbank worth RM229 and an extended 1-year warranty with 3 months screen protection worth RM299 totalling the amount of freebies at RM528. The promotional gifts can be collected at any OPPO stores in Malaysia. There will also be an additional roadshow gift to go along with the pre-order promotion. Available only at Pavilion roadshow on 14 March 2020 for the Find X2 5G standard version and 21 March 2020 for the Find X2 Pro 5G version, the first 300 customers to pick up their phones will receive one set of Enco Free true wireless earphones worth RM499 for free for both dates. That makes a total of RM1,027 worth of freebies with the purchase of Find X2 Series. For pre-order purchases outside of the Klang Valley, customers will also be able to receive the roadshow and pre-order gifts on 14 and 21 March for the Find X2 and Find X2 Pro respectively. Customers will need to make the pre-order at selected OPPO Experience Stores and collect them at the store to be able to redeem the RM1,027 worth of free gifts. Otherwise, they are eligible only for the pre-order promotional gifts. Photo credits: OPPO Malaysia . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2012/01/11/test-drive-ford-s-max/

Test Drive – Ford S-Max

[Review] Now this is the second Ford vehicle that I’m testing (the first being the Ford Fiesta – click here to read about it) and this time it’s the S-Max 7-seater MPV. Finally after days and days of rain the sun came out and so I managed to shoot the vehicle. My family has quite an affinity to Ford having owned several in the past and one currently The S-Max is a 7-seater MPV which is versatile enough to be configured according to your needs The Bi-Xenon Headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights offer increased visibility to other road users particularly in poor weather while the new LED daytime running lights look cool while alerting other drivers to your presence Keyless Entry – Start the car without ever holding the key. Simply keep the key in your pocket or bag. The S-Max is distinctly sporty in design and dynamic in styling and is precision-sculpted to embody Ford’s Kinetic Design philosophy for the perfection of energy in motion. It may be an MPV but she certainly doesn’t really look like one while she handles like a large sedan! The S-Max comes with 225/50 R17 wheels and a capless refuelling system with Ford Easy-Fuel means you do not having to touch dirty fuel caps anymore, while the unique Ford Easy-Fuel safeguard ensures that you don’t accidentally fill up with the wrong fuel. The LED rear lights employs the latest in lighting technology with bright and eye catching LED rear lights improving visibility during reverse maneuvers at night. . Powerplant & Transmission This S-Max is powered by a 2.0 litre EcoBoost™ engine with Turbocharger, offering 203 PS at 6,000 rpm and 300 Nm at 1,750-4,500 rpm. The EcoBoost engine, has twin independent variable camshaft timing, and is mated to a Ford PowerShift® transmission, featuring a new state-of-the-art 6-speed dual clutch automatic transmission. It selects the next appropriate gear at exactly the right moment, delivering lighting-fast gear changes with no disruption to the flow of power. Ford PowerShift® truly delivers improved fuel economy compared to a conventional automatic and has a manual mode that allows you to overide and switch gears when you want to. . How does the above benefit the average consumer? More power, more torque, reduced CO2 emissions and fuel consumption by 20%. ### Suspension & Handling Front – MacPherson Strut Rear – Independent Control Blade Multilink Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Traction Control System (TCS) What this results is an MPV that drives like a large sedan! In fact sometimes I forgot I was driving an MPV. (tomcat does not condone driving the S-Max as one would drive a sedan. Remember the vehicles limitations and keep to it!) ### Safety The S-Max has a 5-Star Euro NCAP Safety Rating and features an advanced Intelligent Protection System (IPS) which employs a range of sophisticated technologies and nine (9) yes NINE airbags to keep you and your passengers protected. These safety features earned the S-Max a 5-star Euro NCAP Adult Occupant Rating – the highest ever rating for a car in this class. . The S-Max IPS includes: 1. Driver’s and front passenger’s airbags 2. Driver’s and front passenger’s side impact airbags 3. Side curtain airbags for first- and second-row seats 4. Driver’s knee bolster airbag 5. Collapsible steering column and pedals for optimized protection of driver’s legs and feet 6. Robust computer-optimized body structure with ultra-rigid safety cell and crumple zones 7. Pre-tensioners, load-limiting retractors and height-adjustable mounts on front seat belts 8. Anti-submarining seat bases 9. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) (included with ESP) 10. Emergency Brake Warning . Peace of mind when driving is important! ### Now to the interior. Grey coloured seats that matches the interior. The front is very roomy eve for a tall person like myself and the driver and passenger have 8-way Adjustable Power Seats. I found my ideal seating position quite effortlessly. The second row seats can slide forward and back to optimize leg room and tilt for improved comfort for passengers The innovative Ford Fold Flat System (FFS) that allows the versatility of various passenger and load-carrying options. The S-Max carries up to 7 persons. The second and third row rear seat folds flat individually I love the dash and the colour instrument cluster display! The S-Max comes with Bluetooth® with Voice Command that allowed me to change tracks, radio stations, make calls on my smartphone and adjust the climate control with a command of your voice. It was a bit tricky at first but speak clearly and the car usually understand what you’re trying to say. I felt like Micharl Knight in Knight Rider! No need to install an after-market audio system as the S-Max comes with a Sony audio system featuring Programme Type (PTY) and Digital Sound Processing, the Sony CD stereo radio/CD/MP3 player has 40 programmable stations, USB/MP3/iPod® connectivity port, and 9 premium speakers! Your hands will not need to leave the wheel. Control the radio, cruise control and the multi function display all from the wheel! The meter dispoay looks cool too! You can set the multi function display to show you a whole bunch of useful info. . Other Notable Features Fixed Panaromic Sunroof – The one-piece panorama roof  has smooth-gliding power-operated sunblinds when you want some shade. There is also a child observation mirror to keep an eye on the kids. . B-Pillar Aircon Vents – for the comfort of your passengers! . Automatic Wiper System with Rain Sensor – The intelligent Wiper System automatically turns on when rain is detected to give you maximum visibility in rainy conditions. . Follow Me Home Lights – A unique feature where the headlights stay on a little longer to illuminate the way to your front door. . Puddle Lights – An intelligent and functional design, the puddle light on the side mirrors illuminate the sides of your car to prevent you or your passengers from stepping on unseen hazards as you step out of the car. . This premium MPV is certainly loaded for bear can be yours for RM185,888.00 (OTR) with insurance. More info on Ford at http://www.ford.net.my Subscribe to my public updates at https://www.facebook.com/timchewkc ‘Like’ my Facebook page to view loads of content – https://www.facebook.com/timchew1311 Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/03/15/stylo-asiafashionfestival-2016-night-1/

STYLO AsiaFashionFestival 2016 – 4 March 2016

[Fashion]   The Mercedes-Benz STYLO AsiaFashionFestival 2016 kicked off three nights of fashion entertainment on 4 March 2016 at Zouk Kuala Lumpur @ Tun Razak Entertainment Centre (TREC). This year’s festival was themed, “The Hall of Plenty” and was sponsored by Mercedes-Benz who showcased an array of the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz A-class vehicles in front of the entrance to Zouk Club KL. With the Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix scheduled for later in the year, the Mercedes-Benz STYLO AsiaFashionFestival (MBSTYLOAFF) premiers as STYLO’s signature fashion festival taking place in March, highlighting the latest stylish creations and A/W 2016 collections from top Asian designers in a B2C showcase. STYLO will still continue its tradition of being a key support event for the Malaysian F1 race, and will be showcased as a stand-alone fashion show at the evening of the Mercedes Benz Petronas F1 party in October during race weekend.     The opening ceremony was led by Datuk Nancy Yeoh, President & CEO of STYLO International and Chairman of MBSTYLOAFF together with Mark Raine, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia; Datuk Prof (Dr) Jimmy Choo OBE, Honorary Advisor of Mercedes-Benz STYLO AsiaFashionWeek and Malaysia Fashion Week; Cher Ng, Executive Director & Founder, ZoukClub;  Datin Winnie Loo, CEO & Creative Director, A Cut Above Group & Academy and also representing Malaysian Hairdressing Association; Dr. CocoAlex Yeoh, Founder, Empro Cosmetics; and Maggie Chan of the Malaysian Footwear Manufacturers’ Association. Datuk Nancy Yeoh said, “On behalf of STYLO, we are pleased to present the much-awaited AsiaFashionFestival in celebration of all things that are creatively weird and wonderful as we continue to push the envelope in showcasing the best of Asian and Malaysian fashion to the world. This year, we have the good fortune of tying glamour with a hip and fashionable club as we showcase aesthetically modern, experimental fashion at the region’s entertainment epicentre, Zouk!” The night’s theme was “Rapunzel, Rapunzel, Rapunzel”, an outlandish, highly imaginative, avant-garde hair showcase underscoring dark, gothic themes and non-conformist fashion as a dead Rapunzel appears on stage in a long black veil embellished with diamante. This was followed by 18 models parading the evolution of fashion in fantastical “hair-raising” coiffeurs by Malaysian Hairdressing Association (MHA) stylists from A Cut Above Salons, La’ Mode Coiffure, Elgon Hair, Hairsources, A+B Hair Studio, Tenz Group, Minas Hair Salon, Hair Emporium, Svenz Salon, Niko Kenz Hair Beauty, Noble Cut Hair Studio and Sunshine Hair & Beauty with creative wear provided by designer, Beatrice Looi.     The opening show was followed by an after show party at Zouk’s Imperial. Click on the individual photos below to open a larger version. Jimmy Choo with adoring fans Cher Ng and Winnie Loo with friends Jimmy Choo and Cher Ng Winnie Loo and Jimmy Choo with friends   Commenting on the event, Mark Raine of MB Malaysia said, “This year, the Mercedes Benz STYLO AsiaFashionFestival, is very timely set to coincide with the unveiling and showcasing of the new generation of Mercedes-Benz A-class vehicles, which will be on display at Zouk over this fashion season. Mercedes-Benz shares many similarities with STYLO in that both of our companies encourage and celebrate excellence in design and creativity. I am proud to share that our partnership with STYLO this year will continue throughout the year, culminating the joint efforts of Mercedes-Benz STYLO Asia Fashion Week with Malaysia Fashion Week in November.  Partners and sponsors of MBSTYLOAFF include Zouk KL@TREC (official venue), A Cut Above Group & Academy (official hairdresser), the Malaysian Hairdressing Association, the Malaysian Footwear Manufacturers Association, Empro Cosmetics and Diva Productions (official make-up). More info on STYLO at http://mbstyloafw.com/ Photo credits: STYLO (by Andy Kho) and author’s own . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/12/27/lenovo-vibe-x2-launch/

Lenovo Vibe X2 Launch

[Tech & Gadgets]   Lenovo launched its new VIBE X2 on 9 December 2014 at Zouk Club KL This new model is the latest in Lenovo’s VIBE line of premium smartphones, and is what Lenovo claims is the world’s first layered smartphone, with a signature design which captures the essence of today’s multi-faceted lifestyle while giving consumers with the freedom to express their individual styles. Lenovo is the first global handset manufacturer to ship a smartphone with the latest MediaTek MT6595 True Octa-core™ processor with 4G LTE. Based on a Heterogeneous Multi-Processing platform in big.LITTLE configuration, MediaTek applied its CorePilot technology to the VIBE X2 to unlock the full power of all eight cores. This allows the MT6595 to deliver superior multi-tasking performance and excellent, sustained performance-per-watt, allowing users to enjoy great multimedia features, fast 4G data transmission rates and long battery life on the VIBE X2. The Vibe X2 comes with a new layered design accented with bold colours, which was meticulously designed, with countless samples of each hue were printed and matched to ensure a visually harmonious wall of shades. Three coats of paint are applied for each tone by high-tech robotic arms in clean rooms, giving a total nine coatings per phone. Expert hand craftsmanship is employed as a final touch to further refine the layers to achieve a smooth finish. Adding a fourth layer to the VIBE X2’s multi-layered concept is the VIBE XtensionTM click on cases. Lenovo introduced two VIBE XtensionsTM, VIBE X2 Battery and VIBE X2 Speaker which enhance and personalize consumers’ mobile experience. The VIBE X2 Battery is just 5.1mm and extends the battery life by up to 75 percent. An auxiliary micro-USB port simultaneously charges the case and device. The VIBE X2 Speaker is the first click-on speaker in the market which provides JBL tuned hi-fi sound. It also has a convenient hands-free stand, wireless Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in battery for 5 hours of uninterrupted audio playback. Compared to the VIBE X, the 32GB VIBE X2 has twice the storage capacity, and 4G/LTE and 802.11ac Wi-Fi connectivity. For the APAC markets, the phone is further equipped with a dual SIM function. “Uniquely crafted with three layers of distinctive colors, the VIBE X2 is the ideal smartphone for design trendsetters and style followers. Combined with the all-new VIBE XtensionsTM which gives the VIBE X2 its fourth layer, these innovations will drive Lenovo’s leadership in the PC Plus era,” said Khoo Hung Chuan, Country General Manager, Lenovo Malaysia. “Our partnership with MediaTek delivers powerful performance in the stylish VIBE X2 and this will appeal to our discerning customers who value best-in-class features in their smartphones.” The Lenovo VIBE X2 is priced at RM1,199.00 and is currently available in the market. More info at http://www.lenovo.com/my/en/   Lenovo Vibe X2 Technical Specifications Processor : 2.0 GHz Octa-core 4G LTE True8Core™ OS : Android™ 4.4 Kit Kat Display : 5.0” Full HD IPS (1920 x 1080) Memory : RAM 2GB + ROM 32GB Camera : Rear: 13 megapixel auto-focus with LED flash Front: 5 megapixel fixed-focus Dimensions : 140.2mm (H) x 68.6mm Weight : 120g Battery : 2300 mAh Li-polymer SIM : Dual SIM Price : RM1,199   . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/05/10/passion-for-fashion-2013/

Passion for Fashion 2013

[Event] The annual Passion for Fashion took place on 30 April 2013 at The Butter Factory KL featuring a night of beautiful celebrities, models, professionals from the fashion industry, Belvedere vodka and of course a fashion shows by Luveluxe, and Lexy Lyla by Dawn Yang. . Miss Universe Malaysia 2013 – Carey Ng Weena Marcus, Evelyn Marieta and their friend Passion for Fashion is organised by JM Productions which is helmed by Josiah Mizukami (pictured here with model and host Stephinie Tan) Fashion show featuring two designers one of which was Lexi Lyla by Singapore’s celebrity blogger Dawn Yang. Model parading an outfit The event was sponsored by Belvedere vodka MHB’s Kelly Siew and Stephanie Lim DJ Faith on the decks DJ Patrick Oliver also featured that night Sonia, Ju Nn, Natalia, MHB’s Magdeline Wang, and Jean (L-R) Stephinie Tan, Dawn Yang, Rachel Tan and Yasueko Amanda Eng (R) with her friend MHB’s Povy Teng and Stephanie Lim The sexy Sonia Ng (R) with her friends Weena Marcus (R) with her friend . More photos at https://www.facebook.com/myhotbloggers Subscribe to my public updates at https://www.facebook.com/timchewkc or follow me on my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/timchew1311 Photo credits: Kelvin Sing Photography, and andykho.com . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/05/03/travel-news-may-2018/

Travel News – May 2018

[Travel] Dusit International to debut in Vietnam with the Launch of the Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort    Dusit International, one of Thailand’s renowned hotel and property development companies, will make its Vietnam debut in May 2018 with the opening of Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort on the country’s largest island, Phu Quoc. Dusit International currently has 27 properties in operation across four (4) brands in eight countries, which will expand to 70 properties within the next three (3) years across key markets worldwide. Phu Quoc is located in the South of Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand, and is a fast-growing tourist destination known for its long, sweeping beaches, rich coral reefs, fresh seafood, pearl farms, and dense, tropical rainforest. Operating under Dusit’s upper midscale Dusit Princess brand, the new four-star resort is centrally located on the island’s west coast overlooking the stunning Bai Truong beach, a 20-plus kilometre stretch of sand also known as Long Beach. Phu Quoc (PQC) International Airport and Duong To town centre are only a short drive away. The new family-friendly resort was designed to blend Dusit’s unique Thai heritage with Vietnamese culture and local traditions, and comprises 108 contemporary guest rooms (ranging from 32 sq m Deluxe Rooms to 90 sq m Suites), most of which offer pristine ocean views. The resort’s dining options include an all-day-dining restaurant, a lobby lounge, a swim-up pool bar serving Thai, Vietnamese and Western cuisines; and Soi 14, a stylish beachfront bar and lounge where Thai Chef Somnuck Attaworn uses premium ingredients to put a contemporary spin on Thai street food favourites. The centerpiece of the resort is a large infinity pool with ocean view, set within a lush tropical garden. Other facilities include a fully-equipped gym, a kids club, a large ballroom accommodating up to 190 people, and Luna Thai Spa, which offers a range of holistic treatments conducted by fully qualified and highly trained therapists.       During their stay, guests can easily arrange to visit popular local attractions such as Phu Quoc National Park, part of the UNESCO designated Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve; the sweeping and secluded ‘Bai Sao’ beach; the quirky Dinh Cau night market; and various traditional temples. “Perfectly equipped to meet the needs of business and leisure travellers alike, this is a stunning property in a beautiful location with gorgeous sunsets almost every day,” said Markus Lohenstein, General Manager, Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort. “It’s a real honour to be tasked with debuting Dusit’s unique brand of gracious hospitality in Vietnam. I look forward to working with my team to make this resort a huge success, as we delight our guests with our distinctive service, and showcase the best the island has to offer.” For the convenience of travellers, PQC International Airport has opened new direct routes to destinations such as Thailand, China, Korea, Russia, Finland, Sweden, Germany and the UK. Regular domestic flights from Phu Quoc  to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are also available. A visa exempt rule grants international visitors 30 days access to the island upon arrival.    For more information, head over to http://www.dusit.com       Lobby Lounge’s New Afternoon Tea at Conrad Hong Kong    Conrad Hong Kong In collaboration with PAPINEE – the global children’s storytelling social enterprise, will take guests on a magical adventure from 9 May to 30 June 2018. Based on the brand’s story and the PAPINEE Horse – Rus, hotel executive chef Claudio Rossi and pastry chef Billy Yuen has created an array of French pastries and snacks whimsical as those in the tea parties of a fairytale.   The PAPINEE Horse , Rus XIV the Stallion King, originates from traditional French folklore. Borrowing from the luxurious aesthetics of the era of Louis XIV, Rus acts as a symbol of magnificence and power. It teaches us to be loyal and courageous to follow our dreams. These lessons not only apply to the leaders of tomorrow, but also to everyday people as a sense of imagination enriches our lives. In light of this, chef Billy exudes his culinary vision in the blackberry and lavender mousse gateau, one of the key items in this afternoon tea promotion. Its white and purple glazing and lavender flavour is both homage to the Rus and to Provence, the featured region of Le French GourMay 2018.    The PAPINEE Inspire Kit with a storybook and colouring postcard for the little ones.      Other special creations include Opéra PAPINEE, a remake of the classic French cake using Provençal almond, in line with the dynamic pattern of the PAPINEE Horse. The meringue lemon tart reminds guests of summer nights in France in which families share moments of happiness. Besides these fantasy-like desserts, the afternoon tea also serves hot items such as seafood quiche and spinach and feta puff, as well as open sandwiches with French toppings.       The “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a fanciful concoction of milk oolong, lime, lavender, espuma and gin (with mocktail option available) by the hotel’s mixologist among the drink options. Alternatively, free-flowing Perrier-Jöuet champagne will also be available for an additional HK$208*.   The PAPINEE afternoon tea is priced at HK$518 for two and HK$318 per head, inclusive of a PAPINEE Inspire Kit (diners have to visit the pop-up store at The Shop of the Hotel to redeem the complimentary kit while stocks last) with a storybook and colouring postcard which guests can bring home at the end of the meal. Mums who wish to share the magical moment with their children can sign up for the family afternoon tea (HK$998*) on Mother’s Day, 12 May. The buffet-style afternoon tea will begin at 3pm, followed by an art jamming session at 5pm to let the imagination of adults and kids alike run wild. Throughout the promotion period, PAPINEE’s colourful products will be sold at the pop-up store at the hotel to enliven the guests’ homes.    The Lobby Lounge is located at: Lower Lobby Level, Conrad Hong Kong, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Hong Kong.    Telephone: (852) 2822 8891 Online Reservations: ConradDining.com . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/02/22/versus-versace-spring-summer-2018-watch-collection/

Versus Versace Spring Summer 2018 Watch Collection

[Luxury Fashion] Versus Versace Spring Summer 2018 Watch Collection VERSUS KIRSTENHOF Luminous and dazzling, Versus Kirstenhof is a watch that turns heads. Surrounded by the logo lettering, the dial is suspended in a see-through case that leaves the wrist on show. Two 3D Lion’s heads on the lugs intensify its original, creative look. The sunray display with crystal-set indices helps to make a strong style statement, which is also modern and fun. The watch is available in different variants: steel or IP gold, or in a more basic look with a leather strap, in plain black, white, nude or “Florida Keys” green.    VERSUS CLAREMONT    The new Versus Claremont is feminine, vibrant, and young. The tiny case is made even more delicate thanks to its green “Florida Keys” total look, a vivid, refreshing Pantone colour, straight out of the S/S 2018 trend reports. The details are meticulously crafted: a curved sunray dial, with the same finish as the bezel, and a fine strap or, alternatively, a bracelet with polished satin-finish links. The watch’s style is emphasized by the Lion’s head in 3D on the central lugs. Also available in white, blue or nude, rose gold steel, two-tone or yellow gold, Versus Claremont is a touch of glam for the Versus Versace girl gangs.    FIRE ISLAND BICOLOR    Versus Versace’s bestselling Fire Island watch is back, and it’s more daring than ever. The watch’s eccentric new style, comes into contrasting colours on its various internal and external surfaces. Top eye-catchers are the electric blue/green “Florida Keys” versions, alongside the other variants: graphic combinations in black/white, or more unexpected fuchsia/grey and blue/orange (or vice versa). In its usual soft lightweight silicone, the Versus Fire Island Bicolor is a suitable watch for spring.       VERSUS NEW CHELSEA    Plain yet defiant, Versus New Chelsea is the new version of a Versus Versace classic. Entirely in steel with a polished finish, its classic cushion case has been given feminine proportions. The 5-link bracelet is a timeless sign of style. Its only decoration is the iconic Lion’s head which reaffirms its identity on this basic and versatile timepiece. Versus New Chelsea also comes in a IP yellow/rose gold version, or with a leather strap to match the dial, all black, all white, or nude.     The Versus Versace boutique in Malaysia is located at Lot 3.51, 3 Floor, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Telephone: +603 2181 4320      Jennifer Lawrence in Versace at ‘Red Sparrow’ Photocall in London   Jennifer Lawrence donned a stunning low cut black Versace dress from Versace PreFall 2018 at the ‘Red Sparrow’ photocall in London on 20 February 2018. The Oscar winner wore a black gown with velvet detail, enriched with gold Medusa buttons and high slit. She later defended her decision to wear the dress in temperatures just above freezing saying that it was her decision to do so.      Celebrities in Versace at the 2018 Brit Awards   Kendrick Lamar looked fresh wearing Versace while accepting his award for International Male Solo Artist at the 2018 edition of the Brit Awards held in London on 21 February 2018. He wore a complete look from the Versace Fall Winter 2018 collection made of a brushed silk velvet printed long coat jacket combined with a matching printed T-shirt.   Dua Lipa wore a printed cotton denim jacket combined with a printed matching top featuring the Tresor de la Mer print from the Versace Tribute Spring Summer 2018 collection.   The Versace boutiques in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia are located at: LC-G02, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur Telephone: +603 2162 0109   Lot 2.25 & 3.27, Level 2 & 3, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur Telephone: +603 2141 0677   More info at http://www.versace.com/   Visuals courtesy of Versace Malaysia. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/09/09/chateau-dionne-kuala-lumpur-french-fine-dining-restaurant-in-damansara-heights/

Chateau Dionne Kuala Lumpur – French Fine Dining Restaurant in Damansara Heights

[Premium Dining] With its origins in the Asian megalopolis dubbed the ‘Oriental Paris’ or Paris of the East a.k.a. Shanghai, China, Chateau Dionne Kuala Lumpur (CDKL) finally officially opened its doors in Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Reflective of its birthplace at the upscale Xuhui District of Shanghai in 2014, located amongst an eclectic area of high-end malls, indie boutiques, trendy restaurants, art galleries, and a cultural preservation zone with sycamore tree lined streets dubbed ‘the French concession’, CDKL continues her gastronomic indulgent tales and vibrant experiences in Malaysia. Located over two floors in the spruce upmarket and prime commercial area of Plaza Damansara, CDKL offers a thoroughly luxe French dining experience that’s suitable for romantic dates, celebrative occasions, entertaining clients, or private functions. A snazzy ‘floor to ceiling’ aperitif-digestif bar and a dedicated chef’s table-open kitchen seating area on the ground level welcome the inquisitive gourmand. For blissful couples, exquisite mood-lit clustered seating booths await. Exquisite private rooms, an airy art gallery themed dining area, a walk-in wine cellar complete with private storage facilities encompass the spacious mezzanine level, altogether perfect for gastronomy groups, corporate functions, themed events and family gatherings. CDKL is impassionately run by its founder David Lim and partner executive chef Andy Choy, both being inspiring trailblazers in their field of true calling. “Many fellow Malaysians who visited us in Chateau Dionne Shanghai (CDS), have always asked us to open a similar place nearer to home, to relive the camaraderie and warmth of CDS more frequently and easily…now we have come home!” quipped Lim. David Lim is a seasoned regional beverage industry entrepreneur extraordinaire. Since the turn of the millennium in 2000, he established and spearheaded the development of among Asia’s leading and largest chain of wine specialty concept stores, spanning a network of 50 outlets at its apex. The Malaysia Book of Records recognized ‘Denise the Wine Shop’, named after his first daughter, as the largest wine specialty concept store chain in the country. Come 2014, the year when China have beaten the French in being the largest red wine market in the world, Lim was already in bustling Shanghai conceiving his next endeavor of a novel wine-restaurant-bar establishment ‘Chateau Dionne’, aptly named after his second daughter. With an unhurried focus and shift towards fine conceptual gearing directions, two outfits were firmly established in well-heeled trending neighborhoods of the ‘Paris of the Orient’. Fueled by unceasing commitment to detailed service and hospitality exuberance, Chateau Dionne has become a frequent destination for ebullient gourmands, national media personalities and international silver-screen superstars. Executive Chef Andy Choy of Chateau Dionne Kuala Lumpur Andy Choy, hailing from Malaysia’s own local food paradise Penang, realized his childhood dreams of becoming a chef of notable distinction through his insatiable thirst and resolute zeal. He won a scholarship to study European cuisine in Switzerland, and thereafter his culinary journey has brought him to work and train alongside renowned celebrity chef luminaires Guy Savoy and Gordon Ramsay in Paris, London and Dubai. ” Since childhood, I love to eat, I love seeing people enjoying food, I was curious about food…. how it was made, ingredients that went into a dish…and I ended up naturally in the kitchen,” shared Andy Choy. Choy was Champion in the 2017 Chef Par Excellence Cooking Competition and a coveted finalist in the Concours Gastronomie Paris in 2018. Now a multi-disciplinary industry professional, with varied exposure experience from Michelin-starred dining establishments, fine hotels, to novelty bistro-bar-cafe and bespoke private catering platforms, Andy comes home to share his journey through “Classic French dining with a Contemporary Local balance” credo at Chateau Dionne Kuala Lumpur. 7-course dinner menu at Chateau Dionne Kuala Lumpur 4-course and 5-course dinner menu at Chateau Dionne Kuala Lumpur This slideshow requires JavaScript. Chateau Dionne carries Ace of Spades (Champagne Armand de Brignac) which is the champagne of choice for many celebrities Weekend champagne Brunch Menu at Chateau Dionne Kuala Lumpur This slideshow requires JavaScript. Chateau Dionne Kuala Lumpur is located at: 24 (Ground and Mezzanine), Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Operating hours:  Tuesdays to Sundays (12pm till 3pm, and 6pm to 10pm), Mondays (6pm till 10pm) Telephone: +6 03 2011 2333 . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/10/12/mitsubishi-motors-malaysia-announces-the-enhanced-2015-mitsubishi-asx/

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Announces the Enhanced 2015 Mitsubishi ASX

[Automotive News] Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, officially introduced the enhanced 2015 Mitsubishi ASX on 22 September 2015. The enhanced ASX is priced from RM104, 791.87 onwards with the introduction of a new variant, ASX 2WD GL. This is in addition to its current variants; the ASX 2WD which is priced at RM 112,571.39 and the ASX 4WD which is priced at RM125, 040.67 (without insurance, GST inclusive for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia). The compact SUV now comes with refreshed exterior features for 4WD and 2WD incorporating Daytime Running Lights and Shark Fin Antenna. The ASX 4WD now comes with 7 airbags including Dual, Side, Curtains and Knee Airbags and two-toned 17” alloy rims. Interior wise the 4WD and 2WD variants come with Touch Screen, USB, Bluetooth, Navigation, Virtual Acoustic Positioning System (VAPS) which provides surround sound stage audio for a magnificent interior acoustic experience, new center console design and piano black door switch panel. Under the hood is a 2.0-litre MIVEC engine with an output of 150 PS and 197 Nm of torque. The enhanced INVECS-III CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) with Sports Mode now allows better acceleration and fuel efficiency. There is a new colour option for the ASX – Sporty Blue. The existing colours include Titanium Grey, Cool Silver and Solid White. The ASX comes with 5-Years warranty package. Standard equipment for all three variants (ASX 4WD, 2WD and 2WD GL) include leather seats, automatic air conditioning, coloured Multi-Info Display and auto retractable side mirrors whilst touch screen entertainment system is standard for the 2WD and 4WD variants. The higher spec ASX 4WD comes with keyless entry with push-start operation, cruise control and paddle shifters, Mitsubishi’s All Wheel Control 4WD System, Active Stability Control (ASC), Traction Control, and Hill Start Assist (HSA). ABS and EBD are standard across all variants. The agile and easy handling ASX has a class leading turning radius of 5.3 meters. In conjunction with MMM’s 10th Year Anniversary in Malaysia, MMM is rewarding customers with an additional cash rebates up to RM12,000 (terms and conditions apply) for selected models. Current Mitsubishi owners also stand a chance to enjoy additional cash deals when they book any new Mitsubishi models from now until 31 March 2016. For more information, head over to www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/MitsubishiMotorsMalaysia   Images courtesy of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.   Titian Budaya Celebrating 50 Years of Singapore-Malaysia Friendship Bridging Cultures with Art, Craft, Dance, Film, Literature, Music, Theatre, and Talks [News] TITIAN BUDAYA will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 21 November 2015 to 17 January 2016 to celebrating 50 years of Singapore-Malaysia ties. The festival is presented by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, Singapore (MCCY) and supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia (MOTAC), and will showcase the creative talents of Singapore and Malaysia across a wide spectrum of art forms. TITIAN BUDAYA will reach out to a wide range of audiences in Malaysia to celebrate the shared cultural connections between Singapore and Malaysia. Held over a span of three months, TITIAN BUDAYA will feature an estimated 400 participants from creative communities in Singapore and Malaysia in diverse programmes across different venues in Kuala Lumpur. MCCY has commissioned CultureLink Singapore to conceptualise, develop and produce the event. The events underline the spirit of partnership, collaboration and co-operation between the two countries, and will involve about 150 Malaysian participants alongside Singapore creatives. The events also explore cross-cultural expressions, and highlight shared cultural and entertainment traditions and icons familiar to both countries. Additionally, TITIAN BUDAYA introduces aspects of Singapore’s creative scene that have not been widely encountered in Malaysia. Singapore’s Senior Director, Arts and Heritage Division, of the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, Mr Yeo Whee Jim, says: “2015 has been a significant year for Singapore as we celebrated the 50th anniversary of our independence. Titian Budaya is also taking place at a special time in our bilateral relationship. This year, we celebrate 50 years of Singapore–Malaysia ties. Titian Budaya reflects the close friendship we share, including our people-to-people and cultural exchanges. With this year’s Titian Budaya, we are looking forward to share with our Malaysian friends a diverse cultural programme, featuring collaborations between Singaporean and Malaysian artists and cultural partners.  In the process, I hope the performers and artists will also find new friendships and strengthen existing ones”. Malaysia’s Undersecretary, International Relations Division (Culture) of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, YBhg Dato’ Yean Yoke Heng, says: “Malaysia is honoured to host Singapore’s Titian Budaya cultural showcase to celebrate the friendship between Singapore and Malaysia to mark 50 years of established diplomatic relations between both nations. Titian Budaya which means “cultural bridge”, exemplifies the warm and friendly ties between Singapore and Malaysia and serves as a platform to enhance deeper understanding besides providing an excellent opportunity for both nations to explore, understand and embrace cultural diversity, arts and heritage. We welcome the extension of this cultural bridge to engage and connect our peoples through our common interest and passion in arts and culture. We are therefore delighted that Titian Budaya, through encouraging collaboration between Singapore and Malaysian artists and institutions will enable our communities to come together to celebrate our shared cultures”. TITIAN BUDAYA festivities will kick-off with a supercharged weekend carnival titled Next Door at Publika on 21-22 November 2015 with a series of four events transforming the mall into a cultural playground. The theme ‘Next Door’ aptly conveys notions of everyday living with shared experiences in a common neighbourhood. The first event features the opening of Art Next Door, a contemporary art exhibition that will run till 13 December 2015. Specially selected and commissioned art works by artists from Singapore and Malaysia are featured alongside one another, providing glimpses into photography, video art, and installation works of Singapore’s post-1965 generation and their Malaysian counterparts. The exhibition is curated by Tang Fu Kuen. The public will also get the opportunity to dip their creative hands in Bazaar Next Door, a family friendly event within the Boulevard at Publika. Organised in partnership with Art for Grabs, Kuala Lumpur’s most popular arts, design and crafts market and the Singapore Makers Association, there will be over 70 stalls that will occupy and delight Malaysians young and old. The third programme at Publika is Music Live Next Door that will feature performances by some of Singapore’s top and emerging music groups: Kailin Yong’s PLUS Trio, Rustic Vibes and SA (仨). Popular Singaporean and Malaysian singer-songwriters Charlie Lim and Liyana Fizi will perform with their respective bands as well as share the stage in a duet. All music performances will be held at Publika’s outdoor stage The Square. The fourth and final programme at Publika is Cinema Next Door, that will include a live animation concert by the TO Ensemble; animation films based on stories by five Singapore writers; and a collection of Singapore’s best short films. On Sunday 22 November 2015, we wind down the weekend with an outdoor film screening of Jack Neo’s iconic I Not Stupid. A significant highlight of TITIAN BUDAYA is TITIAN BUDAYA NIGHT, which will be held on 8 December 2015 at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, Malaysia’s world-class concert venue. This one-night-only gala event is infused with the colours, flavours and rhythms of the region that gives full meaning to the spirit of building bridges across cultures, boundaries, and art forms. A star-studded cast of soloists that includes jazz maestro Jeremy Monteiro and Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah will join the Singapore Chinese Orchestra to perform the works of well-known Malaysian and Singaporean composers in a multicultural extravaganza. Tok Dalang Eyo Hock Seng will lead the Kelantanese wayang kulit troupe Kumpulan Sri Campuran to perform a specially commissioned work from Malaysian composer Yii Kah Hoe, based on the play The Silly Little Girl and the Funny Old Tree written by the doyen of Singapore theatre, the late Kuo Pao Kun. The concert also celebrates the music of the legendary late P. Ramlee in a medley of his beloved songs especially re-arranged by Eric Watson. The entire programme will be musically supported by a 90-piece Singapore Chinese Orchestra, one of Singapore’s two national professional orchestras. Dance enthusiasts are also in for a treat too, as TITIAN BUDAYA, in collaboration with Damansara Performing Arts Centre and T.H.E. Dance Company, will present the Company in two performances on 19-20 December 2015. The Company will perform a double-bill comprising a work by its Artistic Director Kuik Swee Boon, as well as premiere of a new piece commissioned by Indonesian choreographer Jecko Siompo. From 14-17 January 2016, the inaugural SINGAPORE FILM FESTIVAL in Malaysia will close TITIAN BUDAYA. The Film Festival is produced in collaboration with the Singapore Film Society and National Museum of Singapore. It presents an anthology of post-independence Singaporean films starting with the revival of local cinema since the mid-90s, and showcases 10 breakthrough works by Singaporean filmmaking talents from first-generation directors such as Eric Khoo and Jack Neo, to a younger generation of filmmakers like Anthony Chen, Boo Junfeng, Liao Jie Kai, and Royston Tan.   The festival will highlight award-winning films and box office successes that have put Singapore cinema on the world map. Screenings will take place at Golden Screen Cinemas at 1Utama Petaling Jaya and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. TITIAN BUDAYA will also feature talks and discussions to deepen the knowledge and understanding of creative engagements, as well as facilitate cross-border networking and learning between Singapore and Malaysia socio-cultural institutions. These will be organized in conjunction with MY Performing Arts Agency. There will also be an arts-enabling project UNSEEN by artist Alecia Neo who works with visually-impaired communities in Malaysia. This project will be supported by the Singapore International Foundation and aims to use art as a means to effect positive change amongst the participants, as well as the larger community. Said Ms Goh Ching Lee, Executive & Artistic Director of CultureLink Singapore, “CultureLink is proud to be the Creative Producer for TITIAN BUDAYA. The programmes of TITIAN BUDAYA are ultimately made possible by the enthusiasm and warm support of artists, colleagues, partners, and collaborators in Malaysia, and in Singapore. It is also heartening to discover that many among them live, work and create across both sides of the causeway, proving that art has no borders, and that they regard both Singapore and Malaysia their creative and inspirational homes.” For more information on Titian Budaya, head over to www.titianbudayasg.com   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/11/11/editors-note-november-2015/

Editor’s Note: November 2015

October has been one of my favourite months of the year (the other being my birthday month of course!) for the past two (2) years because of the Malaysia International Gourmet Festival (MIGF) which runs throughout the month. This year was the 15th instalment of the annual event, and I was very blessed to be invited by seven (7) restaurants to review their MIGF 2015 menus. You can read about all my reviews here: Dynasty Chinese Restaurant at Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur – https://timchew.net/2015/09/30/migf-2015-review-dynasty-chinese-restaurant/ Soleil Modern European Restaurant – https://timchew.net/2015/10/09/migf-review-soleil-modern-european-restaurant/ Qba at The Westin Kuala Lumpur – https://timchew.net/2015/10/09/migf-2015-qba-at-the-westin-kuala-lumpur/ The Oak Room at Nexus, Bangsar South – https://timchew.net/2015/10/10/migf-2015-the-oak-room-at-nexus-bangsar-south/ Nerovivo – https://timchew.net/2015/10/11/migf-review-nerovivo/ Minori Japanese Restaurant at the Royale Chulan Hotel at The Curve – https://timchew.net/2015/10/13/migf-2015-minori-japanese-restaurant/ Maison Francaise – https://timchew.net/2015/11/05/migf-2015-review-maison-francaise/ So which was my fav of the lot? Well Nerovivo was the most value for money, while Soleil was memorable for the sheer amount of ingredients and flavours in all the courses, and Maison Francaise for their sheer finesse. Generally all the restaurants were pretty good and I enjoyed the beef at Qba, the suckling pig skin at Dynasty, the fish at Oak Room, and the sashimi at Minori. Everyone seemed to have elevated their menus this year which is really great for diners! With all the good food, my waistline expanded a bit but fortunately BTL Aesthetics and Alainn Clinic in Kelana Jaya arranged a series of Vanquish Me fat reduction sessions to stave off the effects of eating so much rich and good food. You can read about that here https://timchew.net/2015/10/25/visit-to-alainn-clinic-part-1-introduction/ and there will be more posts to follow as I detail my Vanquish treatment journey. So what’s coming up this month? There is the TLC Festival happening on 22 November 2015.   Travel and lifestyle channel TLC brings its TLC Festival to Malaysia for the first time on 22 November 2015 from 2:00 p.m. at Setia City Park at Setia Alam. There will be a wide variety of artisanal fare from the numerous food trucks, live music from local jazz act Grooving, and many fun activities – from riding in a hot air balloon and rock climbing to picking up tips at a grooming session and snapping photos at a trick art booth. There will also be face painting and a bouncy castle to entertain the kids, and opportunities to win exciting prizes. The pretty Janet Hsieh, host of TLC’s Fun Taiwan franchise, will be at the festival for a meet and greet with fans, while girls and ladies will surely be happy to see Tom and Henry Herbert from TLC’s The Fabulous Baker Brothers, in their stage segment. Restauranteur and popular food blogger Erwan Heussaff will also be demonstrating some easy-to-do recipes.  Jojo Struys, from TLC’s Jojo’s Diary of Asia, will entertain festival goers with a special tap dancing performance. Those would like to learn some simple moves can step right up for a tutorial with the multi-talented host, who is an advanced rhythm tapper.      The TLC Festival is presented by Watsons Malaysia which will be having their Move Your Body Zumba activity led by renowned Zumba fitness instructor Deno Au. The Watsons Move Your Body Zumba campaign created history when it broke the Malaysia Book of Records for the Largest Participation in a Zumba event held this year in Penang. The Zumba activity at TLC Festival 2015 promises to be one of the highlights as visitors can dance to popular tunes of Zumba for 45 minutes. Watsons and its participating partners such as L’Oreal, Maybelline, Garnier for Men, Gatsby, Sunplay, Horley’s, Bad Lab, Sexylook, Good Virtues Co.,Hair Craze, Naturals by Watsons, Pure Beauty and Water 360 by Watsons will also be at the festival offering visitors exciting deals at the Watsons Lifestyle Zone. With a minimum purchase of RM30.00 you get a choice of complimentary make over or rock climbing where you can win more goodies by completing the climb. With purchase of RM80.00 and above, you get to go on the Watsons hot air balloon ride. Purchase the TLC Festival voucher at RM10.00 from all Watsons stores in the Klang Valley and receive a RM10.00 cash voucher PLUS goodies worth RM20.00, a free makeover, and qualify for a lucky draw to win prizes worth RM10,000.00 (all items are fully redeemable only at the TLC Festival 2015). For more information on Watson’s involvement in the TLC Festival, head over to www.watsons.com.my/tlcfestival2015 The event is open to all and admission is free. This will be a rain or shine event so remember to bring your umbrellas and ponchos. For updates on TLC Festival Malaysia, visit www.tlcfestival.com     And for those of you who will be in South Korea later this month, the Cafe Dior in the House of Dior which is located in the Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu district in Seoul will be launching their Autumn Winter 2015 menu from mid-November. The new menu will include this very tantalising signature dessert. Délire Délice The Délire Délice –Infiniment Praline Noisette is the first in a series of Haute Couture creations to appear on the menu at the Café Dior by Pierre Hermé. “Délire Délice”is made with choux pastry, smooth hazelnut cream, caramelised hazelnuts, praline ice cream and hazelnut praline sauce, and is what Pierre Hermé describes as “a complete transformation of the Paris Brest”. In case you were wondering what the House of Dior in Seoul looks like, well take a look at this video.     I also attended the SAMADHI Carnival on Thursday, 29 October. The event featured over 100 wines from 31 wineries and 23 winemakers and over 60 sampling dishes from SAMADHI’s 6 restaurants. Malaysia’s celebrity chef, Chef Wan made an appearance and gave a cooking demonstration to guests.     The SAMADHI Carnival was sponsored by Straits Wines Company and Carlsberg. Proceeds of the auction were be given to Ma’ Daerah Turtle Sanctuary in Malaysia and Elephant Parade in Thailand. More info at http://www.tamarindrestaurants.com/tamarind-springs.html Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/06/22/naza-euro-motors-launches-the-ds-5-in-malaysia/

Naza Euro Motors Launches the DS 5 in Malaysia

[Automotive News]   DS (previously known as the Citroen DS line of cars) has finally been officially launched in Malaysia by Naza Euro Motors as a stand-alone brand with the unveiling of the new DS 5. The new DS 5 comes with an upmarket look as DS attempts to establish itself as a stylish alternative to existing premium car makers. All Citroen badging has been removed and is now a stand-alone identity with the DS 5 model as its flagship product. “The new DS 5 is the flagship model that introduces the brand’s new stand-alone identity with its impressive new front end with avant-garde styling,” said Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group Chief Operating Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd. The most eye-catching enhancement to the new DS 5 is the new chrome hexagonal frame grille with the DS monogramme emblazoned in the centre. Maintaining its bold and aerodynamic features, the DS 5 front end stands out with even more character and prestige referred to as the DS Wings. The DS ‘wings’ flow seamlessly into the xenon headlights which are surrounded by the brand’s new LED light signature. The DS 5’s sabre design cues are retained and flows from the tip of the lights up the edge of the bonnet while the rear has a flamboyant ‘flame thrower’ rear lights and twin tailpipes. The view from the rear underlines the status of the DS 5 with its signature stylish rear lights complimenting its tailgate spoilers.       The new DS 5 is powered by a 1.6 – litre turbo high powered engine with direct petrol injection that delivers 163hp at 6,000rpm and 240 NM of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Its fuel consumption over a combined cycle, has improved to 5.9km per litre with CO2 emissions of 135g/km. The cabin of the new DS 5 features an aviation-inspired cockpit style with the driving position is technically designed around the driver. The main controls are grouped on two central consoles, one low and one overhead, with specially designed buttons, dials and toggle switches, inspired by the aerospace industry. Sweeping over the cockpit of the new DS 5 are three skylights with electric sunshades. The button and toggle switches are in two groups: one around the gear selector and one overhead. Made from beautiful brushed aluminium, it gives the dashboard an uncluttered feel. The New DS 5 continues the high-tech driving experience with a colour touchdrive interface. This new system provides easy access to all in-car functions from navigation to music. This latest generation screen also includes New Mirror Screen technology. This function lets users mirror smartphone content onto the colour screen, in order use all their apps safely. The Denon Hi-Fi audio system with six speakers and boot-mounted subwoofer, come with USB/IPOD with Bluetooth connectivity. There’s also an automatic dual zone air-conditioning system. The cabin is available in two colours, namely the new Basalt Black and Sand Beige premium leather upholstery. Other innovative features include a colour head-up display on a transparent blade, push-start ignition as well as a keyless access. The new DS 5 is also able to lock and unlock by simply touching the door handle. The new DS 5 is equipped with electric front seats with memory functionality, front and rear parking sensors, electric parking brake, 18” alloy rims, sensor activated headlights and wipers, side mirror turn lights and daytime running lights.       The new DS5 meets the highest standards of safety and comfort for both driver and passengers. Its safety standard features include Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). It is also fitted with six airbags; driver airbags, front passenger airbag with deactivate switch, two driver and front passenger side airbags and two curtain airbags. The DS5 comes with five-year years Peace of Mind warranty valid for a total of 5 years or up to 120,000km whichever comes first; 24-hour Roadside Assistance service and exclusive access to the Sky Lounge by Naza at Subang Airport, all to provide the best ownership experience for its customers. The DS5 is priced at RM198,888 (on-the-road price with insurance) and comes in Artense Grey, Noir Perla Nera, Bleu Encre, Pearl White or Whisper Purple.       Visuals courtesy of Naza Euro Motors . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2010/12/08/kl-international-motor-show-2010-7-dec-2010/

KL International Motor Show 2010 – 7 Dec 2010

[quickie] Went to KLIMS 2010 again this time with FHM GND 2011 Finalist 08 Grace and a new toy muahahaha! Obviously I wasn’t very used to it yet so do forgive the over/ under-exposure, OOF, etc. etc. of the photos. As it was a public holiday, there were thousands of people visiting the show so do get your tickets online to save you half an hour standing in line at the ticket counter. More info at http://www.klims10.com/ Btw KLIMS 2010 runs to Sunday, 12 December 2010 so if you haven’t gone yet make sure you make a visit soon. The gorgeous Lotus Esprit Cute Louise at the Hyundai display With hot Mitsubishi babes Jenny Foh and Weena Marcus! The busy Proton/ Lotus display in Hall 1 With MHB blogger Mei Sze and FHM GND 2011 finalist Grace Toyota display Sweet Belle at the Toyota display Hot Cay at the Honda display Elegant promoter girl at the Lexus display With TV host/ MC Chermaine Poo at the Toyota display With FHM Girl Next Door 2010 Yvonne Sim at the Hyundai display   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/06/09/zouk-club-kls-10th-anniversary-party/

Zouk Club KL’s 10th Anniversary Party & Lenovo New Products Launch – June 2014

[Clubbing]   Zouk Club KL celebrated its 10th Anniversary on 15th May 2014 with an epic party in all the rooms with the ceremony being held in the Zouk Main Room. I remember going to ZOUK Club KL when it first opened its doors all those years ago. Since then it has been my weekend social gathering venue for many years although I have slowed down quite a bit over the last two (2) years. ZOUK Club KL 10th Anniversary Party was a trip down memory lane  and gave party goes a recap of the last 10 years – back to the first day the club opened, to being voted as KL’s Best Club, to their 7 room transformation, hosting many a top international DJ (I remember PVD and Above & Beyond playing there) to present day ZOUK.   The entire club was decked out for the party My dates for the night Sexy dance performance Lots of pretty chicks 6 pieces of TOSHIBA 40” LED PLASMA were given out as part of the lucky draw prizes Cheers to another 10 years at Zouk Club KL!   Here are more photos from the party. Click on the individual photos to open a larger version.     More info at http://zoukclub.com.my/ Or follow Zouk Club KL on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/zoukclubkl Photo credits: Zouk Club KL . Lenovo New Products Launch – June 2014 [Tech & Gadgets] Lenovo unveiled their latest products designed for work and students at a media preview at Ben’s, Bangsar Shopping Centre in Kuala Lumpur on 5 June 2014. Among the items launched were new Lenovo PC and PC Plus devices which are the latest innovations built on the brand’s legacy of performance, reliability, durability and manageability. The line-up consists of Android tablets, a Windows tablet and also Lenovo’s G-series laptops. In the Android category, the vibrant and colorful A7-30 and A8-50 were introduced. While The Miix 2 11” made an appearance in the Windows tablet category. The G-series laptops saw the introduction of the versatile and affordable Lenovo G40-70 & G50-70.   If you’d like to read more about Lenovo’s higher end offerings, you can head over here – https://timchew.net/?s=lenovo    Lenovo Miix 2 (11 inch) Processor: 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i5-4202Y Processor (1.6 GHz up to 2.00 Ghz, 3MB L3 Cache) Size: 302 mm x 190 mm x 11 mm (tablet only) Weight: 800g Display: 11.6″ FHD (1920 x 1080) display Camera: Rear: 5MP fixed focus Front: 2MP fixed-focus Connectors: 2 x USB 2.0, Micro-SD, Micro-SIM, Micro-HDMI Audio Combo Jack Memory: Up to 8GB DDR3L (on board) OS: Windows 8.1 Battery: 36 Watt Hours (WH); Up to 6 hours WiFi browsing / 5 hrs FHD 1080p playback  Available in early June 2014 Price: RM2,999   Lenovo G40-70 Processor: 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i3-4010U Processor (1.70GHz, 3MB L3 Cache) 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i5-4200U Processor (1.60Ghz up to 2.60Ghz, 3MB L3 Cache) Weight: 2.2 kg  Display: 14″ HD WLED display Graphics: AMD Radeon R5-M230 2GB Audio: Dolby® Advanced Audio™ Memory: 4GB DDR3 RAM  Storage: Up to 1TB HDD  OS: Windows 8.1 Battery: 4-cell, Up to 4 hours  Available now  Price: Starts from RM1,699   Lenovo G50-70 Processor: 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i3-4010U Processor (1.70GHz, 3MB L3 Cache) 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i5-4200U Processor (1.60Ghz up to 2.60Ghz, 3MB L3 Cache) Weight: 2.5 kg  Display: 15.6″ HD WLED display Graphics: AMD Radeon R5-M230 2GB Audio: Dolby® Advanced Audio™ Memory: 4GB DDR3 RAM  Storage: Up to 500 GB SATA HDD Operating System: DOS Battery: 4-cell, Up to 4 hours  Available now  Price: Starts from RM1,499   Lenovo Tab A7-30 Processor: MTK 8382 Quad Core 1.3GHz Size: 198mm x 119.8mm x 9.98mm Weight: 327g Display: 7.0” LED 1024×600 IPS Multi-touch Camera: Rear: 2.0MP fixed focus, Front: 0.3MP fixed-focus Memory: RAM: 1GB, ROM: 8GB (Expandable up to 32GB) OS: Android 4.2 Jelly Bean Battery: 3500mAh Li-Po Standby Time: Up to two weeks Usage Time: Up to 8 hours  Available Now  Price: RM399.00 (PWP of folio case and screen protector @ RM29.90)   Lenovo Tab A8-50 Processor: MTK 8382 1.3 GHz Quad-Core Size: 217mm x 136mm x 8.95mm Weight: 360g Display: 8″ HD (1280 x 800) IPS (10-point multi touch) Colour: Midnight Blue, White, Flamenco Red, Canary Yellow (3G only) Camera: Rear: 5.0MP fixed focus, Front: 2.0MP fixed-focus Connectivity: 3G Networks: WCDMA 2100 / 900 MHz, GSM Voice Capabilities 900/1800/1900 MHz  Memory: RAM: 1GB, ROM: 16GB (Expandable up to 32GB) OS: Android 4.2 Jelly Bean (Free upgrade to Andoird 4.4 KitKat shortly) Battery: 4200mAh Li-Po Standby Time: Up to 20 days (WiFi/3G) Usage Time: Up to 11 hours (WiFi/3G) Available in mid June 2014  Price: RM699   More info at http://www.lenovo.com/my/en/ Or follow Lenovo Malaysia on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/LenovoMY Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/09/26/travel-news-hong-kong-launches-first-high-speed-rail-service-guangzhou-shenzhen-hong-kong-high-speed-rail/

Travel News – Hong Kong Launches First High-Speed Rail Service (Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High Speed Rail)

[Travel News] Photo Courtesy of MTR   Hong Kong’s first high-speed railway – the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High Speed Rail (Hong Kong Section)– was launched on 23 September 2018), allowing travellers the chance to travel quickly and conveniently between Hong Kong and cities across Mainland China. Most importantly, the new rail link puts Hong Kong in easy reach of nine (9) neighbouring cities in Guangdong Province. The 26-km rail link connects Hong Kong for the first time to Mainland China’s vast high-speed rail network, which is the world’s most extensive. Travellers will be able to ride from Hong Kong to 44 destinations in Mainland China destinations without changing trains, making the city an ideal starting point for multi-destination journeys through China. With frequent direct high-speed trains linking Hong Kong to Shenzhen and Guangzhou in as little as 48 minutes, the new line makes travelling within the Greater Bay Area faster and more convenient than ever before.    Photo Courtesy of MTR Photo Courtesy of MTR Photo Courtesy of MTR Photo Courtesy of MTR Photo Courtesy of MTR Photo Courtesy of MTR Photo by HKTB Photo by HKTB Photo Courtesy of MTR West Kowloon Station. Photo by HKTB. Photo by HKTB   The Hong Kong section of the High Speed Rail network runs from West Kowloon Station, one of the world’s largest underground high-speed railway stations and a new landmark for the city. The station’s design has already garnered a number of international design awards including one at the World Architecture Festival Awards, known as the “Oscars of architecture”. Visitors can enjoy views of iconic Victoria Harbour by walking along the Sky Corridor on the station’s rooftop, while the three-hectare green area outside the station provides a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Outside the station, there is a wealth of entertainment and attractions for visitors who want to enjoy shopping, dining, or a taste of traditional Hong Kong. The tourism hub of Tsim Sha Tsui with its world-renowned restaurants and shopping malls is a short walk away. The station is also connected by public transport to fascinating neighbourhoods including Sham Shui Po in Kowloon where visitors can experience authentic Hong Kong life, or Old Town Central on Hong Kong Island where visitors can enjoy history, arts, food, and culture in one of the city’s oldest and most idiosyncratic districts. Directly outside the station is Hong Kong’s new arts and cultural hub, the West Kowloon Cultural District. The district is located directly outside the station, which will soon offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy an array of exhibitions, performances, and cultural events.   Photo by HKTB Photo by HKTB Photo courtesy of MTR   Photo by HKTB Photo by HKTB Photo by HKTB)     Tickets for the High Speed Rail network are available online, from ticket agents, and through a tele-ticketing hotline. For more information, head over to https://www.highspeed.mtr.com.hk/en/ticket/cross-purchase-way-hk.html   . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/05/01/aldos-springsummer-2016-collection-at-suria-klcc-fashion-week/

ALDO’s Spring/Summer 2016 Collection at Suria KLCC Fashion Week

[Fashion] Stephanie Lim Joyce AKA Kinky Blue Fairy   MHB’s Stephanie Lim and I headed over to Suria KLCC for the ALDO Spring/ Summer 2016 collection fashion show on 23 April 2016 which was held in conjunction with the Suria KLCC Fashion Week 2016. ALDO was founded in 1972, and today has grown to become a leading international retailer for fashion footwear and accessories with over 1,900 stores in more than 98 countries. ALDO, the group’s flagship brand, delivers fashion at prices that make keeping up with seasonal styles a luxury affordable especially for middle class consumers. The fashion show featured footwear and accessories of this season, presented in 5 different themes – Sunshine Yellow, Second Skin, Rainbow Splash, Best Practice, and Business Class. Models were dressed in stand-out pieces including block-heeled sandals, neutral espadrilles, suede derbies and preppy oxfords. Several influencers at the event wore items from Aldo’s Spring Summer‘16 collection including Yasmin Hani, TV host and actress, Raja Atilia Haron, singer, songwriter and actress, Joyce Wong, fashion and lifestyle blogger, Megan Tan, TV host and emcee, ‘Mr Stailista’ Ayie Ali, fashion influencer, blogger and stylist, Andre Amir, fashion stylist and blogger, and of course MHB’s very own Stephanie Lim. “Our SS16 collection of footwear and accessories was designed to cater to our inspiring, style-driven clientele,” shares Eve Chan, Senior Brand Manager of Aldo Malaysia, “through the fashion show and the activities at KLCC, we would like to celebrate individuality and we hope to help customers express their personal styles while staying fashion forward.”   Instagrammer Crystal Swung with a friend Paige Shem and Stephanie Lim Vince Chong and his sister Vanessa Chong Bernie Chan was the MC for the show   The ALDO store in Suria KLCC is located at Lot 237, Level 2. For the full list of ALDO stores in Malaysia, head over to http://www.aldoshoes.com/my/en/store-finder/results?q=&latitude=4.210484&longitude=101.97576600000002   FUJIFILM X-T10 The photos above were shot using the FUJIFILM X-T10. More info at http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x_t10/ . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/06/07/xixili-night-walks-lingerie-fashion-show/

Xixili Night Walks Lingerie Fashion Show

[Fashion]   Headed over to Black Box in Publika on 26 May 2015, Kuala Lumpur for the XIXILI’s Spring/Summer showcase and a sneak peek into their upcoming Autumn/Winter collection. This year’s XIXILI lingerie fashion show was themed XIXILI Night Walks: In the Wilderness, We Walk Alone and the venue was transformed into a dark jungle with leaves on the floor and long grass surrounding the catwalk..   Lisa Yap of Shu Uemura and Hikky from Number76 with the ballerina donned in XIXILI lingerie and delicate body art paint The evening kicked off with a body art ballet performance in XIXILI lingerie after which Lisa Yap, International Elite Artist & Education Manager from Shu Uemura and Hikimoto Yuko, also known as Ms Hikky from Number76, Director Stylist at Number76 Publika gave a demo of their skills. Then the rest of the fashion show got underway with the showcase of XIXILI’s new collections. The new collection featured exotic python prints, safari leopard patterns and striking floral designs. Number76 hair salon styled the models with a wet and messy hair look, while Shu Uemura make up artists provided a nude and earthy palette for the face topped with deeply accented eyes. Each model was further accessorized in tribal neckpieces, elaborate bangles and ankle bells.     With the new collections, homegrown Malaysian label, XIXILI continues to provide consumers with high quality, comfortable yet fashionably functional lingerie. Sponsors for the show included Official Hair Styling Partner Number 76, Official Makeup Partner Shu Uemura, Arimino Tokyo, Body Perfect, Digi, Juiceworks and Strip. For more info, head over to http://xixili-intimates.com/ Photo credits: Andy Kho Photography (www.andykho.com)   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/01/01/editors-note-january-2021/

Editor’s Note – January 2021

[Editor’s Note] Photo by Olya Kobruseva on Pexels.com 2020 was the most challenging year for us since we started this site back in 2010. The headwinds caused by the pandemic caused major disruption to our business, and that of many of our clients. However, there was a silver lining to the situation as the pandemic highlighted the importance of having an effective digital marketing strategy, as well as e-commerce for brands. In fact, the situation did more to educate many brands than we could have ever done so in a lifetime, hastening the transition into e-commerce/ digital marketing for many brands, even those that are incredibly traditional! We hope that the situation will improve in 2021 once mass vaccination of the population is achieved, which many experts expect to be achieved in Q3 or Q4 of 2021. Till then, brands need to be agile and dynamic enough to cope with the many challenges that lie ahead this year. On behalf of the team at timchew.net, I would like to wish you a Happy New Year! Valentine’s Day 2021 Special Features Photo courtesy of Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur (featured in my 2018 list) This year, I will also be having two (2) special features for Valentine’s Day 2021. One will feature the dining and stay promotions at hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya and beyond, while the other will be a list of Valentine’s Day 2021 dining dinners and promotions at restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya. Get your hotel/ restaurant featured on timchew.net – luxury Malaysian lifestyle website which has worked with many top global brands. My 2020 Valentine’s Day list featuring the top restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley (https://timchew.net/2020/01/20/valentines-day-2020-dinners-in-kuala-lumpur-and-petaling-jaya-selangor/) was the top organic result (position zero) in Google search! Position zero Google selects the content for position zero based on its relevance to the search query and other search engine optimization (SEO) ranking factors of the host domain. The featured snippet is called position zero because it is displayed at the top of the SERPs, just after the ads, making it the top organic result.Google My 2020 Valentine’s Day list featuring restaurants in hotels, as well as room promotions (https://timchew.net/2020/02/03/valentines-day-2020-kuala-lumpur-and-selangor-dinners-set-menus-romantic-restaurants-promotions/) was ranked as organic result no.4 (position no.5) in Google search. If you’re interested to have your establishment/ hotel included in my 2021 lists, kindly drop me an email at editor@mhbdigital.com Celebrate Prosperity, Cheers Together with Carlsberg for a Fiery, Gold OXpicious Year Ahead! Carlsberg Malaysia launched its Chinese New Year campaign themed ‘Celebrate Prosperity, Cheers Together’ in celebration of Year of the Golden Ox. Carlsberg celebrates the festivities with auspicious hues of flaming red and fiery gold, stemming from Carlsberg Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg Smooth Draught bottles and cans, which features the Golden Ox to symbolise resilience and persistence. From 28 December 2020 till 14 February 2021, consumers can win exclusive merchandise such as the Carlsberg Poker Set, Carlsberg-branded 20” luggage bag, limited-edition Carlsberg board game, RM100 cash ang pau, Touch ‘n Go eWallet credits, premium WMF cutlery set, and more! Elevating the festive spirit with greater innovation, Carlsberg brings back the well-acclaimed 3-litre Carlsberg bottles in elegant red and gold at a grandeur 48cm height to be won across all participating outlets nationwide for their beer purchases. “We are grateful for the good progress the nation had made and we call all Malaysians to continue striving for better times ahead. Ushering in the year of the Golden Ox, we wish our consumers prosperity and good luck with bright red and gold across Carlsberg Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg Smooth Draughts cans and bottles. Carlsberg’s ‘Celebrate Prosperity, Cheers Together’ campaign also features an energetic Golden Ox in our limited-edition festive packaging as we remain resilient and hopeful for a better year in 2021”Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia “To help our consumers celebrate and usher a better year CNY, our nationwide campaign offers rewards in the form of cash, eWallet credits and money-can’t-buy premiums to uplift spirits. Consumers can get their hands on limited-edition prizes that we specially crafted for better beer moments including exclusive poker sets, board games, premium luggage bags, including more than 2,600 CNY festive-edition 3-litre Carlsberg red bottles and more to welcome an OXpicious 2021!”, added Clini. Shoppers who purchase any two cartons of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner or Carlsberg Smooth Draught and a carton of any premium brands (Somersby, 1664 Blanc or Asahi) at participating supermarkets and hypermarkets and 99 Speedmart can redeem the Carlsberg luggage bag and be in the running to win a 3-litre red bottle. To complement homecooked CNY dishes, redeem a WMF cutlery set worth RM60 when you purchase any six sets of 4-can pack or a carton of 1664 Blanc, Asahi or Carlsberg Special Brew. For consumers enjoying big bottles of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner and Carlsberg Smooth Draught, there is a whopping RM3.5 million worth of prizes waiting for them to cart home this Chinese New Year! All they need to do is to make sure they check underneath the bottles caps of these big bottles of beer they buy at participating food courts and coffee shops. Whilst standing a chance to win the Grand Prize of 3-litre red bottle or a RM 100 cash ang pau, they can collect eight bottles caps to instantly redeem a Carlsberg can-shaped lighter which comes in two collectible designs. For beer lovers who enjoy a game of cards and poker, they can redeem Carlsberg’s limited-edition playing cards and stand a chance to win an exclusive Carlsberg Poker Set or a 3-litre red bottle when they visit participating bars and restaurants. For purchases at selected convenient stores near you, Carlsberg is rewarding you with up to RM88 Touch n’ Go eWallet credits when you buy RM28 worth of Carlsberg Malaysia products. You can also purchase online at Carlsberg’s official stores on Lazada and Shopee and purchase CNY bundles that comes with the limited-edition Carlsberg CNY board game! Each bundle comprises a 6-pack of Carlsberg Danish Pilsner cans, a 6-pack of Carlsberg Smooth Draught cans, a 4-pack of 1664 Blanc cans, a 4-pack of Somersby Apple cans and a 4-pack of Asahi cans, which comes FREE with a limited-edition Carlsberg CNY board game which is perfect for enjoyable times with loved ones at home. On top of that, you can also stand to win the 3-litre Carlsberg red bottle for that added celebration! Look out for the OXpicious CNY Game by Carlsberg happening at participating super- and hypermarkets starting 16 January 2021 nationwide. For more information, head over to www.carlsberg.com/en-my Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/11/01/product-review-samsung-galaxy-z-fold3-5g-part-1/

Product Review – Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G (Part 1)

[Tech & Gadgets] Those of you who follow me on my social media would know that I’ve been field-testing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G in real life situations over the past few weeks. I won’t be including the details and the specs of the device in this post as you can read about it here – https://timchew.net/2021/08/13/samsung-unveils-the-galaxy-z-fold3-5g-and-galaxy-z-flip3-5g/ Part 1 of my experience with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G focuses on the more practical daily uses for the device such as work, trading, gaming and entertainment. (Look out for Part 2 where I will share the photos I took with the Galaxy Z Fold3.) I took a day to learn how to really make the most of the large (main/ inner) screen, but as I’m already an Android user, I adapted to it pretty quickly and once I got the hang of it I really loved having the big main screen which is pretty much double the size of most smartphones when unfolded. One feature that I instantly liked was the presence of a fingerprint scanner on the power/ lock/ unlock button instead of underneath the screen which I never really preferred. Now when it comes to apps, most apps in the market are designed with a ratio that fits the 16:9 or 18:9 screens that we’re used to. However, the Z Fold3’s main screen is pretty squarish making some apps zoom in or crop certain areas when you try to open them on the Fold3. Fortunately, Samsung included the “Labs” setting in the Fold3, which allows users to customise the aspect ratio of the apps to their preference. This came about because Samsung expanded its partnership with companies including Google and Microsoft to deliver the most optimized foldable experience possible for users. I’m pretty sure you don’t want to see photos of me with the Galaxy X Fold3 so here’s pretty Instagrammer @Sereneserenity with it Work As I manage the social media accounts for a number of brands and businesses, there are times when I need to switch apps to research some info. The switching between apps is time-consuming and makes me prone to errors, but with the Z Fold3, it’s pretty seamless as you can open both apps simultaneously side by side then double check without having to switch apps. SO CONVENIENT! I could also change the width of either apps by just dragging either app. This is a function that I used over and over, not just for work use, but for entertainment or even scrolling through social media. TRADING The Galaxy Z Fold3 is absolutely superb for trading! On a normal smartphone, I would usually have to go full screen in landscape mode to view the chart patterns and do some technical analysis. The drawback is that the chart is usually rather laterally compressed if you have more than one (1) indicator open due to the lack of real estate on your screen. However, with the Z Fold3, I can easily view the chart history as well as three (3) indicators while staying in portrait mode which is very important when deciding on the trades. If you’re into trading (stocks, commodities, futures, currency, crypto, etc. etc.), especially trading on the go, this device will be a vital tool in ensuring that you get the big picture and more info at a glance. Go a step further by enabling two (2) apps to run side by side so that you can run some research on the stock/ commodity without having to leave the charts. I paired the Z Fold3 with the Galaxy Buds Live which has Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and comes with 12mm speakers with sound by AKG. The Galaxy Buds Live’s has an ergonomic and attractive design that also delivers spacious and rich sound. The large driver and bass duct helps emit deep bass with air flow, which is surprisingly enjoyable for such a small audio device. I really enjoyed listening to my favourite tunes on the Galaxy Buds Live, using the outer screen on the Z Fold3 to save battery. The Z Fold3’s stereo speakers are actually pretty loud on their own, and can easily fill a living room. However, if you’re looking for audio quality, I’d suggest using the Buds Live. GAMING It was really hard going back to gaming on a normal smartphone after playing games on the Z Fold3. The processor could easily handle the most graphics-intensive games with silky smooth graphics (I set everything to max), brilliant colours and superb clarity on the Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display. ENTERTAINMENT Watching YouTube videos or streaming apps on the Z Fold3 when you’re on the go is tremendously enjoyable due to the superior silky smooth and vibrant display. Pair the phone with the Galaxy Buds Live to enjoy the sound without disturbing others nearby. I found myself regularly watching YouTube videos while browsing through social media before bedtime. This device allows users to multi-task no matter if it’s an important or unimportant task! The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is simply a great companion! Now as much as I’m so impressed by this device, there’s always two sides to a coin. Due to it’s slim design, the Fold3 is only equipped with a 4,400mAh battery. Using the main display a lot will quickly drain the battery especially if the display is set to the highest display settings and you’re playing using graphic-intensive games, etc. etc. This generally won’t be an issue if half the day is spent in the office where you can plug it in for a quick charge before heading out. However, if you’re out and about for long periods, I suggest that you bring along a powerbank OR avoid using the main display too much. Most of the apps can run just fine on the sub (outer) display, even the camera. Also, a charger is not included in the box hence you’ll need to purchase one when you buy the phone. I’m guessing that this is due to environmental sustainability concerns. While you’re at the store, do buy a good cover for the Z Fold3 (there’s none in the box either). Look out for Part 2 of my review of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 which will focus on the phone’s photography capabilities. You can purchase the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G online on Samsung E-commerce partners like Shopee and Lazada. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/02/08/a-taste-of-italy-by-chef-roberto-panareillo-at-sheraton-imperial-kuala-lumpur-hotel/

A Taste of Italy by Chef Roberto Panareillo at Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel

[Hotel/ Dining]   We recently headed over to Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel to try the new menu (which is currently available) by new Italian Head Chef, Roberto Panareillo at the hotel’s Tuscany-inspired restaurant, Villa Danieli. Villa Danieli has long been one of my favourite Italian restaurants in Kuala Lumpur, largely due to the fact that it’s a free-standing trattoria hence you don’t feel like you’re walking into a commercial restaurant but more like into a Tuscany styled Italian cottage in the countryside. Through the years (I’ve been visiting Villa Danieli since 2013), there have been various chefs (foreign chefs are usually here on a two to three year contract before moving on to other properties) hence the style of the menu changes a bit – from very traditional to the slightly more modern (while keeping to the authentic fundamentals of Italian cuisine of course) and everything in between. Hence, we were quite eager to see what Chef Roberto Panareillo had in store for us! Chef Roberto graduated from the Hotel Management School at the Marco Polo of Genoa and Catering Alliance, Italy. He is also a qualified geometer at the Technical Institute Palazzi of Genoa for Food Hygiene, Health & Safety, HACCP. His career as a chef began in 2001 as a Junior Sous Chef at Dolce Vita in Philadelphia, USA, a well-known Italian restaurant in the state. During his tenure there, he developed a passion for culinary artistry that harnesses the ingredient’s natural flavor, a practice which has propelled him into the spotlight. Roberto was the recipient of the “World Luxury Restaurant Award” 2015/2016 and was recently awarded as the “Best Head Chef” at the prestigious Golden Q Plaque 2018 and the “Authentic Italian Restaurant Abroad – Thailand” in 2016 and 2018. Roberto penned his excellent food memoir with a number of famous celebrities such as Bono from U2, Madonna, Roberto Mancini, Italy’s National Football Manager, and many more. Embodying Sheraton’s community pillar, where the brand is inspired by the melting pot of people walking through its doors, he feels most fulfilled when he cooks and sees diners enjoying the dishes. Roberto’s cooking style is rustic and simple, yet innovative to suit modern iterations of Italian cuisine. In his repertoire, he includes passed-down recipes from his great grandmother. His basic cooking rules for a great Italian dish are to use only the finest and freshest ingredients.   The timeless and classic design of the “Italian villa” makes Villa Danieli one of Kuala Lumpur’s popular couples dating spots Us with Italian Head Chef, Roberto Panareillo Course 1: Antipasti – Tartare Di Tonno Premium tuna takes centrestage, complemented with imported green and black olives, sweet Balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy and shallots. This was a classic dish presented in an elegant manner. I personally feel that you don’t need to always reinvent the wheel, just use something that is time tested and execute it well. A delicious antipasti which serves to awaken the palate for the following courses!   Course 2: Pasta – Ravioli Carbonara Di Mare House-made ravioli pasta, original Italian carbonara sauce, stuffed with local seafood such as shrimp, mussels and baby cuttlefish which not commonly used as ravioli stuffing. This was a hearty pasta dish which was perfectly executed, and filled with umami goodness while not being overly cloying! Just lovely!   Course 3: Pesce – Merluzzo Alla Griglia Con Salsa Alla Puttanesca This recipe has been in Chef Roberto’s family for nearly 80 years! Made at home for family and loved ones, Chef Roberto’s great grandmother’s classic recipe features grilled cod fish that was air-flown from the North European sea, served with the real Italian tomato-based sauce Puttanesca, alongside steamed vegetables, olives, capers and tomatoes. A beautifully cooked piece of cod with a robust tomato-based sauce to accompany it, imparting loads of flavours to the expensive fish. This was a nice and filling main of rustic flavours and fresh ingredients.    Course 4: Dolce – Panna Cotta Al Profumo Di Sardegna Chef Roberto re-created the Panna Cotta recipe by adding premium Madagascar vanilla and a combination of citrus fruits, which provided a scent that reminds him of home, Sardegna. A well-balanced creamy, (slightly) sweet, and tart dessert to end the meal. Really liked the nuances of vanilla in the panna cotta which contrasted against the tartness of the coulis. I’m generally not a dessert person, but this was a nice dessert!     Amongst the above highlights, Chef Roberto took the lead and evolved the menu for Villa Danieli. Inspired by the rustic Italian newspaper layout or known as Gazzetta, the menu comprises all food sections from Antipasti to Dolce. A wide selection of home-made pasta such as Ravioli di Magro, Pappardelle ai Funghi Porcini, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Gratinati on top of the Pizza selection which was improved and added with two signature items – 5 Cheese, a combination of Mozzarella, Parmesan, Smoked Scamorza, Gorgonzola, Mascarpone, fresh Wild Rocket and Villa Danieli, tomato-based pizza with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, Wild Rocket, Bresaola, Sliced Parmesan cooked to perfection in the traditional wood-fired oven. For more information and reservations at Villa Danieli, call +6012 337 9980 or email dining.specialist@sheraton.com   Villa Danieli is located at Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.   Restaurant operation hours: Closed every Monday Lunch: 12.00 pm – 3.00 pm Dinner: 6.30 pm – 10.00 pm   Thanks for having us over! . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/07/24/honda-launches-the-5th-generation-honda-cr-v-in-malaysia/

Honda Launches the 5th Generation Honda CR-V in Malaysia

[Automotive News]   Honda Malaysia launched the all new 5th Generation Honda CR-V on 12 July 2017, debuting an exciting new SUV with class-leading features, stylish exterior and interior, advanced powertrain and advanced safety technology. Since the CR-V’s global debut in 1995, Honda have racked up sales of over 8.7 million* units sold worldwide. In Malaysia, the CR-V made history by being the first vehicle to roll out of Honda Malaysia’s plant in Melaka in 2003. The CR-V has a total of more than 68,000 units sold locally and sales of the 4th Generation CR-V which was launched in 2013 in Malaysia topped over 30,000 units as of June 2017, making it the best performing SUV in its segment. Speaking at the launch ceremony, Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Katsuto Hayashi said, “To set a higher benchmark in the segment and exceed customers’ expectations, Honda Malaysia has shifted to focus more on Advanced Technology starting with the introduction of the 1.5L VTEC Turbocharged Civic and New Jazz Sport Hybrid i-DCD. We are very excited to show you the 5th Generation All-New CR-V that is equipped with three key Advanced Technologies, the ‘1.5L VTEC Turbocharged Engine’, ‘Honda SENSING’ and advanced features such as ‘Programmable Power Tailgate’. We believe this focus transition will lead us to make ‘Tomorrow’s Dream, Today’s Reality’. We are also proud to note that Malaysia is the first country in ASEAN that is introducing Honda SENSING, the Next Generation Advanced Safety Technology in the All-New CR-V.” For the first time in a CR-V model, customers are given three (3) options of turbo variants: •       1.5L Turbocharged Premium 2WD, •       1.5L Turbocharged 2WD, and •       1.5L Turbocharged 4WD     A naturally aspirated 2.0L i-VTEC (2WD) is another option, and both the 1.5L VTEC Turbocharged and 2.0L i-VTEC engines are mated with Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) developed under Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology, to provide a balance of driving performance and fuel efficiency. Paddle shift is available in all variants while the 4WD system has been improved to allow greater agility and light linear handling, be it over hilly terrain or paved roads for more dynamic performance. The 5th Generation All-New CR-V received a major makeover for the exterior, making it bolder and tougher in appearance. There is higher ground clearance at 198 mm (2WD) / 208 mm (4WD) as compared to the 4th Generation CR-V’s clearance of 170 mm. The full LED package which includes the LED Headlights, LED Daytime Running Lights, LED Tail and Brake Lights, and LED Front Fog Lights, offers better illumination, and together with Tailgate Spoiler and Dual Tone Alloy Wheels, give the All-New CR-V a modern and premium look.   Maintaining Honda’s signature concept of “Man Maximum, Machine Minimum” design principle, the All-New CR-V has maximised the cabin space not only for occupants but for goods as well. There is more rear legroom with 90 mm more space, while the flexible configuration of the rear seats also provides an extended cargo space of up to 1,084 litres when the seats are laid flat (250 mm extra space compared to its predecessor). The Programmable Power Tailgate (a premium feature offered for the first time by Honda Malaysia), allows owners to easily control the height and opening of the tailgate with the one-push button and Stop and Hold Programmable Height. Interior wise, the 7” Advanced Display Audio that is Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM ready, provides smart connectivity and entertainment while the Dual-Zone Air-conditioning and rear USB ports provide more comfort and convenience for passengers. The combi leather seats with an 8-Way Power Seat for driver and 4-Way Power Seat for passenger which is one of the new additional features in All-New CR-V. The Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) replaces the traditional hand/footbrake; freeing up space at the console area which Honda has fitted with a large compartment that can fit even a 13” laptop or a medium-sized handbag. The Auto Brake Hold (ABH) feature, provides convenience when driving in congested traffic whereby with only a push of a button, the vehicle’s stationary position is held without the driver having to continuously step on the brake. In terms of safety, Honda Malaysia is introducing Honda SENSING for the first time in Malaysia. The Next Generation Advanced Safety Technology is designed to assist drivers in potentially dangerous driving conditions and provides three categories of safety suites that comprise seven features;  a) Driver Cruising Aid 1.     Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) 2.     Low-Speed Follow (LSF) b)    Frontal Collision Deterrence 3.     Forward Collision Warning (FCW) 4.     Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) c)     Side Collision Deterrence: 5.     Lane Departure Warning (LDW) 6.     Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) 7.     Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)     In addition to Honda SENSING, the All-New CR-V various safety features that are standard in all variants including Six Airbags and the new Thin-Film-Transistor Display (TFT) and Driver Attention Monitor that assist drivers to stay vigilant during the drive through a combination of alerts and steering vibrations. Other safety features available are Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Agile Handling Assist (AHA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Multi-Angle Rearview Camera to complete the premium package in an SUV. New features such as Walk Away Auto Lock, and Eight Sensors come with the 1.5 TC 2WD & 4WD and 1.5 TC-P 2WD variants, while the top variants are further equipped with high-end features including Honda LaneWatch Camera**, Auto High Beam** and Active Cornering Light**. The All-New CR-V 1.5 TC 2WD & 4WD and 1.5 TC-P 2WD variants are the latest Honda Malaysia models to be certified an Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV). The prices (without insurance) of the four variants are: •       2.0L 2WD priced at RM142,400 •       1.5L Turbocharged 2WD priced at RM155,700 •       1.5L Turbocharged 4WD priced at RM161,600 •       1.5L Turbocharged Premium 2WD priced at RM167,700     The All-New CR-V is available in five colour options of which the Dark Olive Metallic is a totally new colour for a Honda vehicle while the White Orchid Pearl and Obsidian Blue Pearl are brand new colours for the CR-V. The favourite colours of Lunar Silver Metallic and Modern Steel Metallic from the previous generation have been maintained for this 5th Generation model. Three accessories packages are being offered. The Utility Package priced at RM1,165 includes Cargo Tray, Cargo Net, Trunk Organiser, Sun Shade and Door Protector Film, while The Urban Package which comes with Door Visor, Rear Bumper Protector and Illuminated Side Step is priced at RM1,790. The Aero Package for 2.0L 2WD and 1.5L VTEC Turbocharged variants are priced at RM5,900 and RM5,700 respectively and offer Front Aero Bumper, Running Board, Rear Aero Bumper, as well as Exhaust Pipe Finisher (2.0L 2WD only). These accessories package prices are after 10% discount, giving  savings of up to RM665. The warranty for the All-New CR-V is maintained at 5 years with unlimited mileage at 10,000 km service intervals**** at any of the 91 Honda dealers nationwide. For more information, telephone Honda’s Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or head over to http://www.honda.com.my     Visuals courtesy of Honda Malaysia. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/01/05/lenovos-total-technology-solutions-for-business-enterprises-launch-december-2014/

Lenovo’s Total Technology Solutions for Business Enterprises Launch – December 2014

[Tech & Gadgets]   Lenovo unveiled their latest family of commercial desktops, a multi-mode, a tablet, workstations, enterprise servers and solutions which are designed to help increase productivity, on 5 December 2014 at the Gardens Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Lenovo’s new family of commercial and enterprise products consist of the ThinkStation P Series workstations together with the ThinkCentre Tiny-in-One, which are designed to deliver reliability and innovation, helping small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) through to enterprise customers improve productivity and reduce total cost of ownership. Lenovo also launched the System x M5 server – the first marquee flagship product from Lenovo’s acquisition of IBM’s System x business which offers higher security, efficiency and reliability for SMBs and enterprise customers looking to optimize their IT infrastructure workloads. “As data sets get larger and more complex, our customers need increasingly powerful, interactive performance and a total end-to-end solution. With the acquisition of IBM’s System x business, Lenovo now offers a complete range of solutions to meet the computing needs of small businesses through to enterprises. By delivering reliable support for enterprises, Lenovo is helping innovators develop robust platforms that will pass the requisite audit and compliance checks. Not only do we provide powerful machines that allows you to push limits, we also enhanced our designs which will completely change the way people utilize our devices,” said Khoo Hung Chuan, Country General Manager, Lenovo Malaysia.       ThinkStation P900, P700 and P500 Workstations: Innovative Space-Saving Powerhouses Lenovo’s new ThinkStation P Series workstations are designed for optimum performance and usability, and are what Lenovo claims as a quantum leap forward for workstation technology. The new systems have a clean, modular design, making it easier to access components for uncomplicated upgrades. With the Flex module (Flex Bay, Flex Tray and Flex Connector), users are able to customize the right components to suit their profession/ requirements. With the Lenovo ThinkStation P Series’ powerful computing and graphics performance, users can run their mission-critical applications – from advanced rendering and simulation to analysis of vast data sets.   Lenovo System x M5 Server: System x M5 Server: Assurance for Security and Energy Efficiency The new System x M5 server combines high performance with built-in security, efficiency, and reliability, while supporting a wide range of enterprise workloads and computing environments, from cloud computing to big data and analytics. The portfolio includes highly configurable models of rack and tower servers, dense systems, blades and integrated systems to help clients address pressing business challenges in the data centre and in the office.   Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny-in-One 23 ThinkCentre Tiny-in-One 23: The World’s First Modular All-in-One Desktop for Business Lenovo’s ThinkCentre Tiny-in-One 23 is Lenovo’s first versatile detach-and-build modular all-in-one (AIO) business PC. It offers a clean, clutter-free, compact solution with easy two-step setup for mass deployment. The 23” monitor is compatible with all current generation Tiny products, and offers configurability, while the modular AIO experience also allows users to update the PC and monitor separately – allowing businesses to save money!   Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet 10 ThinkPad Tablet 10: Business Tablet The ThinkPad Tablet 10 is sesigned for a superior user experience, and is optimized for business professionals who require both flexibility and connectivity. The tablet is constructed from premium aluminium with Gorilla glass to protect its 10” full HD vivid display, and delivers a premium mobile experience with enhanced productivity and capability in a purposeful lightweight design. Users can also be creative with four flexible modes – Tablet, Stand, Laptop and Desktop. When connected to the optional ThinkPad Tablet Dock or USB3.0 docking station, users can add an external display, mouse, and either the Compact Bluetooth keyboard or directly attach the ThinkPad Tablet 10 Ultrabook full-sized keyboard.   Lenovo ThinkPad Helix ThinkPad Helix: Business 2-in-1 Ultrabook The ThinkPad Helix was designed to meet the needs of business customers who require a highly mobile tablet, and a laptop that’s thinner, lighter and more fully-featured. The ThinkPad Helix weighs 1.35 kg and measures only 0.38”, 15 percent thinner than its predecessor. The new ThinkPad Helix sets a higher standard for business 2-in-1 Ultrabooks with its top-of-the-line hardware and software technologies to give users flexibility, productivity and connectivity. This high performance ultrabook comes with the all new Intel® Core™ M processor, providing even better performance than the previous generation.   Pricing and Availability: Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet 10 starts from RM2,337.00 Lenovo ThinkPad Helix starts from RM6,000.00 Lenovo ThinkStation P900, P700 and P500 starts from RM3,300.00 Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny-in-One (TIO) 23 starts from RM3,799.00 System x M5 server starts from RM15,246.00   For more info, head over to http://www.lenovo.com/my/en/   With pretty MC Nadia Heng   Photo credits: Lenovo Malaysia and author’s own Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/05/24/edaran-tan-chong-motor-sdn-bhd-etcm-launches-the-new-nissan-serena-2-0l-s-hybrid-2018-in-malaysia/

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) Launches the New Nissan Serena 2.0L S-Hybrid (2018) in Malaysia

[Automotive News]   Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM), the sole distributor and assembler of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia, launched the All-New Nissan Serena 2.0L S-Hybrid on 14 May 2018 at 1 Utama Shopping Centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid comes with a completely new design and sporty appearance, and is designed for greater comfort and space flexibility, while equipped with advanced safety features, and class-leading fuel economy. Two grades of the new Serena are available; the Premium Highway Star and Highway Star. Sales and Marketing Director of ETCM, Mr. Christopher Tan said: “In 2013, ETCM was the first to introduce a hybrid MPV to Malaysia. Today, Malaysia is the first country outside Japan to locally-assemble the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid. This is to support the local popularity of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid; and to-date, we have already collected 1,300 bookings.” Also present at the launch is Mr Vincent Wijnen, Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Asia and Oceania, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd. “In many ways, the Nissan Serena is a strong symbol of Nissan itself. Serena, not surprisingly then, has consistently been one of the most popular passenger cars. In fact, this calendar year, it’s number-one in its class in Japan, with more than 33,000 units sold so far.”, he said.     The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid adopts Nissan’s new generation global design language that creates a more dynamic and sporty styling. The core features are the new V-Motion Strut Grille, Dual Layer LED Projector Headlamp and LED Signature Lamp, Floating Roof design that highlights the spacious cabin, and LED Tail Lamps that are now fashioned with a distinctive S-Shaped design. Nissan added in some of their Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) features into the new Serena to provide a more exciting, confident and connected drive: S-Hybrid system with upgraded ECO motor that controls the Idling Stop system, and provides additional torque assist in start-up acceleration. It also acts as an alternator to facilitate energy recuperation during deceleration and braking; First in its class Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM), uses 4 cameras that provide a 360° bird’s-eye view of the vehicle for easier navigation; Intelligent Moving Object Detection (I-MOD), detects and alerts the driver of moving objects surrounding the vehicle; Intelligent Driver Alertness (I-DA), helps alert potential driver fatigue (drowsy driving) and inattention; Smartphone connectivity with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, so that the driver is able to stay focus on the road and still being able to get turn-by-turn navigation directions, receive and make calls, listen and reply to messages, and play music using voice commands.     The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is powered by a 2.0L (MR20DD) Twin CVTC (Continuously Variable-valve Timing Control) engine, paired with XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). This provides maximum power output of 150PS / 6,000rpm with a torque of 200Nm / 4,400rpm. The adoption of the new Dual Arm Tensioner (DAT) to maintain optimal tensile force on the belt reduces friction and power lost, while increasing fuel efficiency. Improvements to the engine have resulted in a 2.8% improvement in power-to-weight ratio and the best-in-class fuel economy of 14.2 km/L (NEDC R101) which is a 13% fuel economy improvement over its predecessor earning the All-New Serena S-Hybrid the Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) status. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid also provides enhanced the ease of driving, handling and comfort. The sound-absorbing liner in the wheelhouse to improve cabin quietness, while increasing the steering rack gear ratio resulted in quicker turning through reduced steering-wheel lock-to-lock turns. The variable assist electric power steering gives a lighter steering feel at low-speed (when parking) and a firm feel at higher speeds for improved stability. Stiffer front and rear suspension mounting as well as the addition of high performance valve in the shock absorbers deliver a more stable and comfortable ride.     The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid includes convenient features such as the Hands-Free Dual Power Sliding Door which operates by a simple quick kick below the door to open or close when your hands are full, Dual Back Door that can be opened easily even in tight parking spaces, Capless Fuel Filler which makes refuelling more convenient, and 7 USB-Powered Ports for each passenger’s electronic device charging needs. The modern and premium interior of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid includes Soft Padded Instrumental Panel featuring Nissan’s gliding-wing design delivers a sense of panoramic openness, while the full colour 7-inch Advance Drive Assist Display (ADAD) provides vehicle and driving information. A Flat Bottom Leather Steering Wheel with Cruise Control, asymmetrical centre cluster housing the premium 6.75-inch Clarion Advanced Touchscreen Display Audio, Push Start Ignition with the Intelligent Key for keyless operation and a Dual-Zone Auto Climate Control System with rear digital control panel as well as air conditioning ducts for all 3 rows.       USB ports all over the cabin!   The interior space of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is touted by ETCM to be the largest and most flexible in its class. The 7-seater MPV now comes with the interior length extended by 180mm, and additional 20mm and 65mm for its height and width respectively, which provides more space between all rows of seats thus improving the ride comfort for all passengers. First in its class Zero Gravity Inspired Seats provide spinal support to reduce passenger fatigue during long drives is now available for 1st and 2nd row seats. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid now comes with 2nd row Captain Seats with dual armrest, and a personal table offering the luxury of individual seating. With this new seating layout, occupants gain a comfortable walkthrough access from the 1st to the 3rd row. This spacious 7-seater MPV follows it predecessors with a variety of seating and cargo combinations, offering 13 different seating configurations to fulfil all needs and requirements. Traditionally, 3rd row passenger find it the most inconvenient to exit the vehicle. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid solves this by re-designing the C-pillar rearward by 50mm, to make a wider sliding door opening and with the addition of a Power Sliding Door Switch (left sliding door only) in the 3rd row, as well as a new step-release that enables 2nd row seats to slide forward with ease, passengers can exit the 3rd row comfortably and conveniently.     6 SRS Airbags is now standard in the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid, and other safety features include Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Hill Start Assist (HSA), and ISOFIX Child Seat Restraint system for 2nd row seats. “Besides being one of the best looking MPVs in Malaysia, the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is equipped with many new intelligent technologies and smart features that will bring abundance of joy and happiness to many families. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is simply magical,” added Mr Christopher Tan. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Highway Star comes with a fresh new colour, Cashmere Gold alongside its three current colours; Diamond Black, Brilliant White and Tungsten Silver. While the Premium Highway Star offers a Two-Tone exterior colour design with Brilliant White (Body) and Diamond Black (Roof), Tungsten Silver (Body) and Diamond Black (Roof), and Cashmere Gold (Body) and Imperial Umber (Roof). Additionally, the Premium Highway Star offers more sophistication with Combination Leather Seats with a colour choice of Two-Tone Truffle Brown and Chestnut or Single-tone Black, 10.1-inch Roof-Mounted LCD Panel, Tech-on Tray Mat (for the personal table), Driving Video Recorder (DVR), LED Room Lamp, V-KOOL 4Mil Security Film Tinting, 16-inch Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels, and Door Visors.     The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is priced at RM147,500 for the Premium Highway Star and RM135,500 for the Highway Star (OTR price without insurance for Peninsular Malaysia), with a 5-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty. A 3-year/60,000km (whichever comes first) Maintenance Service promotion is offered as part of the launch campaign. Additionally, the first 500 registered vehicles will also receive a free Terzo Portable Cooler Box by PIAA (worth RM 500).   NISSAN SERENA 2.0L S-HYBRID PREMIUM HIGHWAY STAR (RM) HIGHWAY STAR (RM) Peninsular Malaysia 147,500 135,500 Sabah & Sarawak 150,200 138,200 *OTR Price inclusive GST, without Insurance For more information, head over to http://www.nissan.com.my or call the Nissan Customer Care Centre Hotline at 1800 88 3838   Visuals courtesy of ETCM. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/04/13/mid-valley-fashion-week-2014-miss-selfridge/

Mid Valley Fashion Week 2014 – Miss Selfridge

[Fashion] MHB’s Paige, Bell aka Isabellakuan, Povy Teng, Mynn and Magdeline with her friend at the photowall   Headed over to the Mid Valley Fashion Week 2014 to catch the Miss Selfridge show on Friday, 11 April 2014 as I thought I’d take the Sony Alpha 5000 I was reviewing and see how it would cope shooting a fashion show. I switched to the E mount 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 + 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 lens for the runway shots then back to the kit lens for the other photos. Quite pleased with how the photos turned out. More info on the camera at http://bit.ly/1eLboU1   The pretty Jun Yong in the center (who’s a presenter on Astro Supersport) was the MC for the show (click on the individual photos below to open a larger version) Spotted the pretty Evelyn Marieta there MHB and Red FM’s Mynn Lee with Stephanie and Yee Ying Mynn Lee again this time with the pretty Jun Yong and her friend MHB’s Povy Teng with her friend and Yee Ying With Paige, Yee Ying and Magdeline Wang   More info on the Mid Valley Fashion Week 2014 at https://www.facebook.com/mymidvalleymegamall More info on Miss Selfridge at http://www.missselfridge.com Photos shot with the Sony Alpha 5000. More info on the camera at http://bit.ly/1eLboU1 #sonymalaysia #sonyalpha5000 Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/01/06/tech-news-january-2022/

Tech News – January 2022

[Tech News] Samsung Malaysia Eletronics Debuts the Galaxy S21 FE Samsung Malaysia Electronics launched the new Galaxy S21 Fan Edition 5G in Kuala Lumpur on 5 January 2022. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G is a smartphone that houses premium fan-favourite features from the Galaxy S21 in a well-rounded and slightly more affordable package. Among the most-loved aspects of the Galaxy S21 incorporated into the Fan Edition are its eye-catching design, powerful performance, pro-grade camera, and seamless ecosystem for connectivity. “Innovation and people have long been a focus for Samsung, and we understand the impact that mobile innovation has over human connections. We were amazed by the overwhelming response from previous FE models, including the Galaxy S20 FE last year, so we are going all out with the Galaxy S21 FE to produce a balanced device with even more premium capabilities as a way to give appreciation back to the fandom.”Edward Han, President of Samsung Malaysia Electronics Samsung users were responsible for steering the direction of the new smartphone with valued opinions across focus groups, global surveys, and general feedback sessions. The Fan Edition is important for enabling a unique two-way initiative between fans and the business, sporting an active platform for key voices to directly influence the outcome of a product. In turn, creating a dynamic environment of constant sharing and improving to ensure each device is compatible with the diversity of Samsung fans all around. Samsung is committed to consumer feedback and providing new experiences to address their needs, which is why Samsung introduced the Galaxy S21 FE to the Galaxy S Series family. Armed with a powerful chipset, intelligent display, a pro-grade camera, and more, the Galaxy S21 FE is Samsung’s latest epic innovation with much of the S21’s most iconic and beloved features. Consumers can now pre-order the Galaxy S21 FE 5G, starting 6 January until 10 January 2022, through Samsung Experience Stores, Samsung Authorized Partners and Samsung Malaysia Online Store. The Galaxy S21 FE 5G (256GB) is priced at RM3,099 while the Galaxy S21 FE 5G (128GB) is priced at RM2,899 From 6 January to 28 February 2022, customers will receive 30% OFF selected accessories and 20% OFF selected wearables and hearables with every purchase of the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. This will be available on Samsung Malaysia Online Store, Samsung Experience Store, and Samsung Authorized Partners. For more info, head over to https://www.samsung.com/my/smartphones/galaxy-s21-5g/galaxy-s21-fe-5g/ New 4K Philips 8500 Series TV Arrives in Malaysia Philips Malaysia launched the Philips 8500 series of 4K UHD LED Android Displays in Malaysia on 17 January 2022. This new TV extends the picture beyond the screen and into the room, with Ambilight, and it is also among the many Philips displays equipped with Apple TV+ coverage via the Apple TV app. Whatever the video source, the Philips P5 Perfect Picture Engine gets the most out of the stunning 4K LED screen, while the fidelity of Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos sound technology ensures the same contrast, brightness and colour that the director intended, along with sound that’s punchy, dynamic, and clear. If users start playing a game on a connected games console, the 8500 series automatically switches to a low latency setting (ALLM), and the fast display response means that gamers can always stay on top of the game. No matter what the user is watching, Ambilight fills the room for an immersive experience, taking the emotion beyond the screen. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is supported for smooth fast-action gameplay. reducing screen tearing and syncing the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphic card or console’s output for a better gaming experience. Scenes appear instantly, objects look sharper, and gameplay is more fluid. All major streaming services are supported, including Apple TV+, Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime and Disney+. Users can also enjoy personalized and curated recommendations and access their library of movie and TV show purchases from Apple. The Philips 8500 series is built with DTS Play-Fi wireless audio streaming technology, allowing users to control all DTS Play-Fi-enabled products via Wi-Fi and stream music simultaneously. The 8500 series also features improved sound quality and storage space, with Mimi Sound’s personalized health volume function, which creates a more enjoyable listening experience by tailoring sound patterns to the user’s ears. The storage space has been upgraded from 3GB to 4GB, and the storage space for applications, files and software have been doubled from 16GB to 32GB, which exceeds the industry standard. The Philips 8500 series 4K UHD LED Android Displays are available in three screen sizes: ModelRCP (RM)Promo Price (RM)50″ PUT85163299299955″ PUT85163599329975″ PUT851671996599 For more information, head over to https://www.philips.com.my/ Photo credits: Respective brands . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2023/03/21/bmw-malaysia-launches-the-new-bmw-x7-xdrive40i-pure-excellence/

BMW Malaysia Launches the New BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence

BMW Malaysia introduced the New BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence to the Malaysian market on 17 March 2023. The vehicle which is named “The President” by BMW now comes with more enhanced digitalisation capabilities and sophisticated design. “Luxury has always been progressive for us at the BMW Group, and with every turn of the tide, we refine and redefine the meaning of luxury across our most sophisticated portfolio. The New BMW X7 is testament to this, arriving as an exemplification of progressive luxury – one that offers pure performance, aesthetics and driving excellence.” Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia The new split headlamp front design, which reflects BMW’s new luxury class design language, gives the New BMW X7 a noticeably more polished appearance. Significantly, the inside has been updated to offer improved connectivity, as well as a broad selection of digital services and assistance systems, thanks to the BMW Curved Display and Operating System 8. The new 48-Volt mild hybrid petrol engine enhances the driving experience while the six-seater layout with individual captain chairs in the second row maximises passenger comfort. The New BMW X7, which comes with the Pure Excellence package, stands out from its predecessors thanks to its streamlined frontal design, which has split dual LED headlights with separate units providing daytime running lights and indicators at the top. The front apron also has a fresh style, with two striking chrome pieces acting as frames for its central air intake and dramatically sculpted surfaces containing a new double-slat kidney grille design. The New BMW X7’s side profile is characterised by low overhangs, a long wheelbase, and elongated lines. Roof rails, an exterior line made in satinated aluminium, and stylish light alloy wheels flank the luxury SAV round off the design. The New BMW X7’s three-dimensional taillights have totally new internal graphical layouts in the back, including a new location for the reversing lights. The glass-covered chrome strip linking the two taillights is another brand-new addition that emphasises the premium SAV’s breadth even more. The New BMW X7 also has a superior vantage point thanks to the high ground clearance. A 12.3-inch Information Display and a 14.9-inch high-resolution touchscreen Control Display are included with the BMW Curved Display, which provides the New BMW X7’s interior an upscale, more modern cockpit feel. Air vents are subtly incorporated into the instrument panel, which is noticeably lower. Sophisticated chrome accents surround the outer air vents. The “Lindenwood Fineline” exquisite wood trim, sport leather steering wheel, and M Headliner “Alcantara” anthracite all add to the luxury SAV’s premium ambiance. Another eye-catching feature of the New BMW X7 is the Ambient Light Strip that is located below the inside trim finisher. With its crystalline appearance and prismatic structure, it produces a unique illusion of spatial depth and is backlit. The Welcome Light Carpet for the left and right entry sections is a standard component of the Ambient Light. The Ambient Light Strip, which displays “X7” on the passenger side, is wonderfully complemented by the Crafted Clarity trim, which has handcrafted pieces made of cut crystal glass. A roomy six-seater layout with two plush individual seats in the second row is now now available with the New BMW X7. In keeping with the BMW Group’s environmental goals, seats now come standard with new Sensafin upholstery and decorative stitching. The expansive glass top also makes the room feel lighter and more airy. The New BMW X7 has a boot that can hold up to 750 litres of cargo when the third row of seats is folded down. The New BMW X7 is available with a petrol engine mated to xDrive all-wheel drive and an 8-Speed Steptronic Sport gearbox. For even greater economy and performance, the premium SAV also has innovative mild-hybrid technology with a 48-Volt starting generator. With a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), the in-line six mild hybrid engine produces 375 horsepower (280 kW) and 540 Nm of torque. Due to this, the premium SAV can complete the century sprint in 5.8 seconds as opposed to 6.1 seconds for its predecessor. A double-wishbone front axle, a five-link rear axle, and a two-axle air suspension with automated level adjustment are also standard on the New BMW X7. This idea provides a remarkable range of driving characteristics, from exceptional ride comfort to the kind of dynamic handling brand customers have come to anticipate. Moreover, by including rear-wheel steering, the Integral Active Steering guarantees optimal manoeuvrability at low speeds and exceptionally nimble handling in the middle speed range. The Executive Drive Pro offers a smooth, balanced ride that enhances the SAV’s comfortable interior. The New BMW X7 features the BMW Live Cockpit Plus, which incorporates a completely customizable Information Display and touchscreen Control Display. The New BMW X7 is now outfitted with the most recent BMW Operating System 8, which serves as the basis for comprehensive connectivity and is an integral part of the cockpit interface. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel, the BMW iDrive Controller, as well as touchscreen and gesture control, are just a few of the ways that vehicle systems may be operated. The BMW Head-Up Display, which presents critical information pertinent to the driver, is also a standard component of the BMW Live Cockpit Professional. The Parking Assistant Professional and Driving Assistant are just two of the many cutting-edge driver assistance technologies that come standard on the New BMW X7. An automatic parking manoeuvre can be started using the Parking Assistant Professional, a camera and ultrasound-based assistance system. The Reversing Assistant Professional is also included, and it keeps track of the past 200 metres travelled. The Driving Assistant comprises of features such as Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning with active steering interventions, Front Collision Warning with brake intervention, Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention with exit warning, Speed Limit Info and manual Speed Limit Assist. The New BMW X7 is available in Sparkling Copper Grey Metallic, Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic, Skyscraper Grey Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, and Black Sapphire Metallic, while the new Sensafin upholstery is available in Sensafin Black and Sensafin Cognac. Owners of the New BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes: BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW Privileges Card BMW Service Online The New BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence with 5-Year Extended Warranty and Service Package, as well as Sales and Service Tax (on the road, without insurance), retails at RM 654,800.00 For more info, head over to shop.bmw.com.my . Photos courtesy of BMW Malaysia Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/02/11/valentines-day-2018-menu-at-drift-dining-bar-kuala-lumpur/

Valentine’s Day 2018 Menu at Drift Dining & Bar, Kuala Lumpur

[Valentine’s Day]    Headed over to Drift Dining and Bar in downtown Kuala Lumpur recently to try their Valentine’s Day set dinner. Drift is located along Jalan Bedara which is right behind Hotel Istana KL, and close by (but not too close) the busy Changkat Bukit Bintang. It’s a really cosy location that’s somewhat hidden from the main roads however that’s the appeal of the establishment – it’s unlike those commercialised and noisy outlets along Changkat Bukit Bintang. Drift gets its name from driftwood – a piece of wood that floats with the tide. The establishment provides unpretentious, easy going, friendly, and accommodating service, in a cosy and warm setting, with delicious modern Australian cuisine to boot!  Anyway, let’s get to their Valentine’s Day sharing menu (sharing as it promotes conversation and is more interactive than your typical fine dining dinner) which is priced at RM388++ per couple.    Valentine’s Day Sharing Menu for 2 Entrée Fine D Clair Oyster Freshly Shucked Fine D Clair Oyster With Shallot Vinegar Well you know what they say about oysters and their aphrodisiac properties ha ha! The two (2) pairs of oysters were really fresh and honestly didn’t need to go with the shallot vinegar (but feel free to add some if you like some additional taste).    Hokkaido Scallop & Tiger Prawn Sesame Crusted Hokkaido Scallop, Compound Butter Tiger Prawn With Lemongrass infused Roasted Carrot Puree and Mushroom Truffle Emulsion This was just heavenly with two of my favourite ingredients (scallops and truffle) in the same dish! This was an apt representation of the modern Australian cuisine found at Drift – featuring typical Aussie seafood yet combined with ingredients found in other regions (ie. the lemongrass and truffle), and combining it with some good culinary skills, resulting in a dish that is as elegant as it is tasty!    Mains Heart Shaped Smoke Salmon Ravioli Heart Shaped Beet Ravioli Pasta Filled Smoke Salmon and Spinach, Tomato Bacon Emulsion Two pairs of heart shaped raviolis with a very flavourful filling! Went exceedingly well with the tomato bacon emulsion which imparted some creaminess with a hint of piquancy. I like how the chef plays around with the different flavours and textures – transforming a rustic dish like ravioli into a modern, colourful and extremely photogenic dish that’s perfect for Instagram!    Beef Tenderloin Grain Fed Beef Tenderloin With Truffle Mash, Red Wine Shallot Custard, Bone Marrow Butter and Vegetables Oh my! Look at that lovely pink centre! Order your beef nothing over medium if you want to enjoy juicy and tender cuts of meat. Eat it with the absolutely delicious red wine shallot custard, and creamy bone marrow butter which really complemented the beef! The silky truffle mash was a lovely component in this dish too! (If you don’t eat beef, kindly inform the restaurant when you make your booking.)    Dessert Heart Shaped Cheese Cake Chocolate Mousse, Strawberry and Raspberry Coulis I personally liked the chocolate mousse (thanks to my fondness for dark chocolate) however she liked the whole dessert so I think girls would really enjoy this one.    Priced at RM 388++ per couple inclusive two (2) glasses of bubbles or wine.  There is also a vegetarian/vegan option available however you need to request for it when you make your booking.       The simple yet classy long bar features a huge photo of the owner himself wearing a suit in a bathtub with suds. A quirky photo that pretty much sums up Drift – a cosy and romantic yet laid back dining spot somewhat hidden in the busy city.   No time to buy flowers? You can also arrange with Drift Dining and Bar for some flowers from Helwa Bloomers for your date that night. Single Rose Stalk and Card – RM 10 10 stalks of pink and red roses – RM 60  Big Bouquet of Roses 20 stalks. Pink or red roses – RM100    Drift Dining & Bar is located at: Ground Floor Bidara Condo 38, Jalan Bedara, Off Jalan Nagasari (Directly Behind Hotel Istana), Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Website: https://www.driftdining.com/ Email: events@driftdining.com Telephone: 0321102079    Thanks for having us! . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/09/02/product-review-creative-outlier-pro/

Product Review: Creative Outlier Pro

[Tech & Gadgets] Creative Technology recently released the Creative Outlier Pro, the latest addition to the well-received Outlier True Wireless series. The newly designed earbuds are poised to lift the ante for True Wireless with Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Mode, as well as an amazing battery life of up to 60 hours for a superior listening experience. The Creative Outlier Pro stands out as the ideal true wireless earbuds because they are equipped with six microphones in total, configurable touch controls, IPX5-certified water resistance, Bluetooth® 5.2 connectivity, and wireless charging. With Hybrid ANC, which is generally found only on high-end headphones, the Creative Outlier Pro provides users with an exceptional listening experience. This ANC technology is referred to as “hybrid” as it incorporates both the feedforward and feedback ANC systems on each earphone to efficiently filter out undesired background noises. As a result, users may concentrate while on an essential conference call or listening to their favourite music without being distracted. On the other hand, users can switch to Ambient Mode to allow just the appropriate amount of ambient sound in, which is useful when users want to be aware of their surroundings, such as when walking along a road. The controls are easy to use and can be toggled between ANC Mode and Ambient Mode with simple taps on the earphones, or via the Creative app. Furthermore, the new and larger 10 mm graphene-coated driver diaphragms expertly tuned by Creative’s in-house audio engineers substantially enhance acoustic performance. This equates to improved clarity, greater bass, and effective ANC quality – all while increasing earbud power efficiency. Creative Outlier Pro is the ideal audio companion for long commutes, workouts, or endless Netflix marathons, with a total battery life of up to 60 hours and a playtime of up to 15 hours on a single charge. Even with hybrid ANC enabled, users will be able to play for up to 10 hours on a single charge and up to 40 hours total. The earbuds also come with different sizes of soft silicone ear tips, making it simple for users to choose the ideal fit for improved noise insulation and comfort. The Creative Outlier Pro effortlessly pairs with the user-friendly Creative app, which allows you to personalise the touch controls and activate a variety of handy functions like as the Low Latency Mode. This newly introduced feature cuts the Creative Outlier Pro’s latency by more than half, allowing customers to experience better synchronised music and video content. Creative Outlier Pro has been specially tuned to enable Super X-Fi READY, which is a free preview version of the Super X-Fi technology available via the SXFI app. Users can sample Super X-Fi headset holography on their phones’ personal music content. Definitely the coolest pair of earbuds I’ve seen on the market! I’m a fan of: Hybrid ANC and Ambient Mode which is rather uncommon (most others around the same price only have ANC on and off) Incredibly long-lasting battery – (ANC Off) Up to 15 hours of battery life on a single charge, 60 hours including charging case. (ANC On) Up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, 40 hours including charging case Really cool looking and futuristic design – like something out of a sci-fi movie like Star Trek, not just any boring old buds/ pods Superior sound quality – to be entirely honest, I was quite surprised by this but in my personal opinion I preferred this over other brands. The Creative Outlier Pro provided solid bass, rich mids, and clear treble. IPX5 sweatproof and in-ear design that won’t fall out of your ears, making the Creative Outlier Pro suitable for outdoor use (I dare not use my non-in-ear buds outdoors for fear that they might drop out), activities, and exercise Not so much a fan of: The size of the case – unfortunately, the case had to be rather large to provide that amazing battery life so it was rather too big to comfortably fit into my pants’/ jeans pocket (shouldn’t be an issue for girls to carry in their handbags though) The Creative Outlier Pro is priced at SGD$119 and is available at the Creative online store (Singapore) at creative.com/OutlierPro Photo credits: Creative and author’s own . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/08/23/mandarin-oriental-opens-new-luxury-urban-resort-in-istanbul/

Mandarin Oriental Opens New Luxury Urban Resort in Istanbul

[Travel & Hospitality News] Mandarin Oriental Opens New Luxury Urban Resort in Istanbul The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group announced on 22 August 2021, the opening of its newest luxury hotel on the shores of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, and is welcoming guests with an Opening Offer. Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul features 100 spacious, luxuriously designed guest rooms and suites with stunning views over the Bosphorus and the city skyline. A wide range of stylish restaurants and bars, significant entertainment spaces for social gatherings, and an all-encompassing Mandarin Oriental Spa provides an ideal backdrop for leisure and business travel.  The limited-time Opening Offer includes the following value-added benefits: Rates starting from EUR695 per nightOne complimentary night with a minimum of two consecutive paid nightsEUR100 credit to be used in the spa or hotel restaurants and barsAdditional benefits available when you log into, or join, the Group’s guest recognition program, Fans of M.O.Valid from 22 August – 22 November 2021 The hotel aspires to be one of the city’s best locations for dining and entertaining, introducing the globally renowned Novikov concepts to Istanbul with the main Novikov restaurant directly on the shorefront, a classic Novikov Lounge Bar, a vibrant Bosphorus Lounge with waterfront terrace and the Novikov Pool Bar in a garden oasis. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus offers an extensive range of wellness and beauty therapies and includes luxury treatment rooms, hammams, private relaxation areas, exercise and fitness facilities as well as an indoor and outdoor swimming pool. For corporate and social events, the hotel features three expansive ballrooms, a garden terrace and pool area, and six meeting rooms. There is also a unique open space which can be hired and decorated in a bespoke manner befitting of special occasions and celebrations. “We are delighted to be opening this stunning urban resort in one of the world’s most exciting destinations and look forward to bringing Mandarin Oriental’s renowned quality of service to Istanbul. This marks the Group’s second entry into Turkey, and promises to be the perfect complement to the award-winning Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum which opened in 2014.”Christoph Mares, Chief Operating Officer for Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus, Istanbul is located 15 minutes from the central business district and the city’s central Taksim Square. Istanbul’s major attractions, historical sitesand museumsare a short drive away, and the hotel is a short walk to the nightlife in Kuruçeşme. The hotel is adjacent to Kuruçeşme and Bebek parks, which have extensive pathways,ideal for walking or jogging. The Istanbul and Sabiha Gökçen international airports are less than an hour away. For more information and reservations, head over to www.mandarinoriental.com/istanbul Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group Welcomes Travellers to Top European Destinations with ‘One More Night’ Offer Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group marks the easing of European travel restrictions to fully vaccinated travellers with One More Night, an offer encouraging travellers to treat themselves to a five-star escape and receive a complimentary extension to the trip. Ideal for European getaways, One More Night, an accommodation package available at select properties within Europe as well as the Middle East, extends any holiday with a complimentary additional night (when booking a minimum of two or three nights; varies by property).  Additional benefits, such as room upgrades or a late check-out, are available ​​via Fans of M.O., the Group’s guest recognition program. From the fashionable streets of Paris, London and Milan to the tranquil shores of Bodrum and Lake Como, Mandarin Oriental’s award-winning hotels and resorts span the European continent.  As of 18 August 2021 the following destinations offer quarantine free travel to fully vaccinated travellers (subject to the entry requirements at select destination, which can change at short notice, there kindly check with the latest entry requirements before travel):  Barcelona, Bodrum, Geneva, Lake Como,  London,  Madrid,  Milan,  Munich,  Paris,  Prague and Abu Dhabi and Istanbul. “We are thrilled to welcome travel back to many of our destinations as we watch the restrictions ease for vaccinated travellers. Now is the ideal time to treat yourself to a favourite destination or experience somewhere new.”Kristin Ruble, SVP, Brand and Experience Marketing While travel restrictions and protocols are easing to vaccinated travellers, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group maintains strict health and cleanliness standards as well as safe distancing throughout the Group’s public spaces, spas, dining outlets, and more, which is demonstrated through the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group “We Care” program.  For further information, head over to www.mandarinoriental.com Photo credits: Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/05/15/sonys-wet-party-sony-walkman-nwz-w273-launch/

Sony’s Wet Party – Sony Walkman NWZ-W273 Launch

[Tech & Gadgets] Ahhh Friday night and time to enjoy the weekend. Just one last event to attend for the week and that was Sony’s Wet Party featuring the launch of the new Sony Walkman NWZ-W273 at Mai Bar, Aloft KL Sentral. . My favourite freelance promoter Estelle (L) at the entrance to Mai Bar. Male guests got a pair of swimming trunks while girls got a wrap-around. The sexy Julie Woon was posing with a couple of male models who were wearing the new Sony Walkman W270. There was a display of the evolution of the Sony Walkman from casette tape to CD to digital formats. This brought back memories as I had the old casette Walkman and the first generation Discman. We were treated to a performance by Malaysian synchronized swimming team. I was most impressed! If you look carefully you’ll see that they are all wearing the Sony Walkman NWZ-W273 which is water-proof! The synchronized swimmers were joined by the 2 male models and 2 mermaids (and yes all were wearing the Sony Walkman NWZ-W273). Yes mermaids with a tails ok! Very sexy mermaids indeed! With its water-proof design, the new NWZ-W273 player withstands water (up to 2 meters) and sweat from workouts, making it a good companion for everyone from the health conscious to performance sports athletes and yes even mermaids. The NWZ-W273 is now available in blue, pink, white and black . The NWZ-W273 device is designed with intuitive controls to easily adjust volume to play, pause, or change songs on-the-go. Equipped with a 4GB on-board memory (which is approximately 1000 songs), users can easily drag and drop DRM-free music files and playlists from iTunes® for Mac or PC, Windows® Media Player, or Windows Explorer. While the NWZ-W273 player delivers up to eight hours of audio playback on a full charge, there is also the convenient quick-charge function for those of you who always forget to charge your devices. Charge a totally depleted battery for three (3) minutes and the device can provide music for up to 60 minutes. . Who would have thought 20 years ago that the Walkmans would be so small and waterproof? . When I think of Sony I always think of high quality audio and that’s because Sony has always been committed to extraordinary audio performance. The NWZ-W273 player continues that tradition with its crystal clear highs, deep bass and powerful sound typically found in Sony’s high-end headphones. To fit the user’s ear properly, the player comes with a new tension band for a supportive fit while small, medium, and large earpieces are included to ensure an ideal fit for secure, long-term wearing comfort during running, cycling or even swimming. “For many people, music is a vital component in their daily lifestyle. People listen to music when they are commuting to work or doing vigorous activities like a gym workout, cycling and running,” said Ivy Goh, General Manager, Brand Activation Management Division, Sony Malaysia. “The new NWZ-W273 not only lets you enjoy powerful music on the go, now you can even bring it to swim, which was something swimmers can only dream of until now.” . Sony also took the opportunity to launch their latest range of headphones! MHB’s Jiayeen trying out the Sony headphones Along with the launch of the new Walkman® Sports MP3 Player (NWZ-W273), were other water-proof Sony products such as the recently launched Xperia Z Smartphone and Xperia Tablet Z, Cyber-shot DSC-TX30) and some really cool and comfortable headphones More info on the headphones at http://www.sony.com.my/productcategory/pa-headphones . . The headphones are perfect for the budding DJ or if you just want to chill at home and relax without sounds from the outside world (or your nagging aunt/ boss) bothering you. MHB’s Kelly, Jiayeen and Louise with Julie Woon Vera Chang with Penny MHB’s Jiayeen with Estelle. Took this pic of the KL skyline from the Mai Bar which is right on top of Aloft KL Sentral. . The Sony Walkman NWZ-W273 is a water-proof, all-in-one digital music player designed to conveniently and comfortably wear to the gym, the trail, the treadmill, and now, even into the pool and is priced at the suggested retail price of RM299.00 in Malaysia. More info at http://www.sony.com.my Photo credits: andykho.com and author’s own . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/08/15/travel-news-august-2022/

Travel News – August 2022

[Travel News] Usher Spring with New Blooms and Spot Wildlife in a Steve Irwin-Inspired Luxury Escape In September, Australia welcomes spring in all its splendour, with its sunny days and cool nights, as well as a slew of exciting new happenings and experiences, ranging from celebrating spectacular flora and fauna in bloom to staying in a nature hideaway inspired by Australia’s greatest wildlife icon, Steve Irwin. “With mild temperatures, stunning wildflowers and amazing festivals, Australia in springtime offers such a wide range of experiences that travellers can look forward to. There’s no better time to awaken your sense of wonder and unlock your imagination by taking that trip to Australia now,” said Brent Anderson, Regional General Manager, South & South East Asia (SSEA), Tourism Australia. The Sydney Fringe Festival is an annual celebration of vibrance and culture. Photo by Sydney Fringe Festival Sydney Fringe Festival (Sydney/ Warrane, New South Wales): The Sydney Fringe Festival, New South Wales’ largest independent arts festival, runs for the entire month of September and features over 500 events in 50 venues. Expect cultural creators from across the city to band together to share Sydney’s stories, presenting new work in a variety of genres. This year’s Sydney Fringe Festival launches the inaugural LIMITLESS microfestival, which celebrates performance and visual artists with disabilities. From 1st till 30th September 2022.Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers (Toowoomba, Queensland): The annual Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, which features more than 60 distinctive events and experiences, transforms Southern Queensland’s Toowoomba city into a breath-taking month of flowers, flavours, and sounds. Discover award-winning parks, breathtaking private gardens, streets awash with florals colours, world-renowned musical acts, the finest cuisine and wine available in Queensland, as well as a variety of cultural and natural excursions. From 1 till 30 September 2022. Brisbane Festival (Brisbane/Meeanjin, Queensland): Brisbane’s most anticipated event of the year is a wonderful way to celebrate spring. As people emerge from their winter mood, Brisbane Festival brings them together for an explosion of artistic creations, live performances, and experiences for all ages. Get a ticket for the opening weekend to see Brisbane’s bridges, barges, and rooftops illuminated by spectacular pyrotechnic displays as the city skyline explodes with fireworks. From 2nd till 24th September 2022. Take in the incredible sights of Lake Eyre and William Creek from above ground. Photo by Wilpena Pound Resort Lake Eyre Explorer Package (Flinders Ranges, South Australia): Experience the breath-taking Kati ThandaLake Eyre on a trip to the Flinders Ranges with this scenic flight, accommodation and extras package. Marvel at the spectacular display of pastel colours from above, plus, enjoy an opportunity to be immersed in the rich culture of the Flinders Ranges when staying at the base of the Wilpena Pound.Origins Market’s New Experiences (Busselton, Western Australia): The beloved Origins Market in Busselton, in Western Australia’s South West, has added a range of tours and experiences that offer visitors a chance to better connect with the vibrant selection of exhibition makers and creators. Origins Market’s new experiences range from food and wine pairing to art tours, all of which provide visitors with a unique way to explore what the region has to offer. Connection: Songlines from Australia’s First Nations People (Canberra, Australian Capital Territory): From the makers of Van Gogh Alive, the exhibition explores First Nations People’s spiritual connections to land, water, and sky, through a vibrant and multi-sensory symphony of sound, light, and colour. State-of-the-art technology is used to create an immersive exhibition space, enveloping you in large-scale projections and cinematic surround sound. Girri Girra (Central Coast, New South Wales): Disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature at an overnight bush camp in the Ourimbah State Forest with Girri Girra, an Aboriginal-owned tour operator on the Central Coast. Sleeping in individual pop-up tents, guests will take part in an authentic Indigenous experience complete with a smoking ceremony, storytelling around the fire, body painting and dance. Tyama (Melbourne/Narrm, Victoria): Immerse yourself in a new experience grounded in First People’s environmental knowledge at Melbourne Museum. Designed to reawaken our natural world connection, Tyama (pronounced chah-muh) is fitted with beautiful soundscapes, encouraging visitors to play, connect, and discover items from the museum’s collection. Gastronomo’s Sensorium promises a culinary adventure drawing on the senses to embrace the art of eating together while sharing stories. Photo by Gastronomo Dining Gastronomo’s Sensorium (Kangaroo Island, South Australia): Masters of immersive dining, Gastronomo invites guests to take part in an elaborate dining experience, Sensorium, showcasing premium food sourced from the land and sea around Kangaroo Island and South Australia. The eight-course tasting menu evolves in front of guests as each course is cooked over the flames, coal or the smoke of an open fire pit, all set inside a historic sugar gum hut lit with flickering candlelight. Limited to small dining groups and only a few dates released each month, Sensorium will run until October 2022.Haselgrove Rooftop Cellar Door (Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia): Surrounded by cabernet sauvignon, shiraz, and mourvèdre vineyards dating back more than 60 years, Haselgrove Wines sits in an iconic location that is the perfect blend of history, beauty and, of course, great wine growing conditions.Victoria by Farmer’s Daughters (Melbourne/Narrm, Victoria): New culinary experience, Victoria by Farmer’s Daughters, has opened its doors in the heart of Melbourne, in a debut collaboration between Fed Square and the team behind Farmer’s Daughters. Overlooking Yarra River, the 250-seat restaurant will transport diners to the heart and soul of Victoria, paying tribute to and celebrating the produce, people, and places that make up this incredible state.  Moo Brew New Venue (Hobart/Nipaluna, Tasmania): The oldest craft brewery in Tasmania, Moo Brew is set to develop an unconventional venue to match its unconventional beers in Hobart. Featuring drinks galore, salty snacks and an edgy atmosphere, this new venue – part taphouse, part bar – will house a nanobrewery for concocting experimental brews in situ, as well as offering Moo Brew’s classic range of beers. Valley Social (Swan Valley, Western Australia): Valley Social provides a spacious interior with multiple zones to enjoy local craft beers, ciders, spirits and wines served across three different bars. The food menu features fresh local produce, with the venue’s custom-built ‘black beauty’ smoker serving up a variety of barbeque meats. It is also home to the largest glass micro-brewery kettle in the Southern Hemisphere, with all beers produced on-site, as well as house spirits.  Experience unparalleled privacy and personalised service alongside barefoot adventure and a genuine connection to nature at The House. Photo by Elise Hassey  The House (Great Barrier Reef, Queensland): A world-class reef house situated on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef, The House has opened its doors to guests seeking unparalleled levels of privacy and personalised service. Newly built on a pristine headland of the exclusive Lizard Island, The House and its adjoining residence, The Cottage, make up a rare and compelling offering which embodies all things authentically Australian and the opportunity to enjoy laidback luxury at its finest.The Crocodile Hunter Lodge (Sunshine Coast, Queensland): Inspired by Steve Irwin’s life, legacy and love for wildlife, the Irwin family launched The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, a beautiful hideaway home to red kangaroos, emus and koalas, nestled into the Australian bush near the famed Glass House Mountains and Sunshine Coast beaches. Guests can admire these iconic animals while taking a dip in The Billabong, a 25metre infinity pool, and enjoying a poolside snack or cocktail from Warrior Restaurant and Bar.Spicers Tower Lodge (Hunter Valley, New South Wales): The Hunter Valley has welcomed the return of an old friend, with the iconic Tower Lodge in Pokolbin reopening as Spicers Tower Lodge after a multi-million dollar renovation. The exclusive retreat is built in a modern Spanish mission style, featuring warm, earthy textures and colours that blend into the landscape. Handmade Mexican terracotta tiles line the floors, and adobe-rendered walls catch the sunset over Broken Back Range.Lancemore Milawa (King Valley, Victoria): Located in one of Australia’s oldest gourmet regions less than three hours from Melbourne, Lancemore Milawa is a boutique hotel set to reinterpret the vision of a country estate with the unveiling of its multi-million-dollar refurbishment in September 2022. Helmed by award-winning interior designer Hana Hakim of The Stella Collective, the Lancemore project will feature a fashion-forward, sophisticated space.Lily and Sadie Cabins (Clare Valley, South Australia): CABN has launched the Lily and Sadie CABNs – its first architectural accommodation escapes in the Clare Valley. With unrivalled views of the surrounding famed Clare region vineyards and an outlook of the rolling hills throughout the valley, this accommodation sets new standards and offers guests an exceptional CABN experience in a private natural setting. Photo credits: Respective photographers for Tourism Australia Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/11/04/idris-elba-x-superdry-collection-2015/

Idris Elba x Superdry Collection (2015)

[Fashion] Idris Elba   Superdry launched their London Collections Men on 11 June 2015 with the debut of the brand’s new Idris Elba collaboration. Idris Elba is best known for his roles in Marvel’s Thor movies, Pacific Rim, Takers and American Gangster, and is a prolific actor with immense stage presence. The launch was attended by press, celebrities and members of the British Fashion Council, all eager for the preview of the 250-piece collection.  The collection will be available in selected Superdry stores and online in November 2015.   Below are some photos from the launch. Click on the individual photos to open a larger version.   More info at www.superdry.com   Images courtesy of FJ Benjamin (Malaysia). Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/02/03/honor-launches-the-band-z1-honor-5x-and-honor-7-enhanced/

honor Launches the Band Z1, honor 5X, and honor 7 Enhanced

[Tech & Gadgets]   Headed over to the Glasshouse at Seputeh on 26 January 2016 for the launch of honor’s first smartband, the honor Band Z1 which features a simple design paired with advanced and intelligent technology. “The honor Band Z1 is our answer to fans who are looking for a smartband that encompasses both elegance and simplicity, yet packed with the powerful technologies that honor is renowned for. As a smart accessory, the honor Band Z1 offers useful features such as health and sleep tracking, and serves as a notification centre on the wrist that is easy to access. It is the perfect partner to augment your busy lifestyle,” said Allen An, E-commerce Director, honor Malaysia. The surface of the Band Z1 is inspired by Scandinavian minimalism that takes inspiration from nature, practicality, and appearance, and is devoid of any buttons, accentuating the simplicity of its circular surface. Steel is used as the Band Z1’s main material to create the tough yet refined look. A combination of CNC machining, hand polishing and sand polishing techniques were used to achieve the finish which is also scratch resistant and durable. The 1.06 inch 128 x 128 pixels resolution touchscreen on the Band Z1 features a touch-sensitive button-free operation. You can access your notifications, alarms and the clock with just a simple swipe. The soft-lit PMOLED screen is unique as the brightness is not too harsh when in a darkened area – such as a cinema or a club – yet is legible enough in well-lit conditions.     The honor Band Z1 supports caller display and allows you to read messages and emails, supporting English, German, Italian, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Japanese. It comes with a high accuracy G-sensor, as well as honor’s advanced algorithm software, to automatically detect and log your walking, running or sports activities accurately. The data recorded includes number of steps taken, calorie consumption, exercise time and distance – without the need to install any app on the smartphone. The capacitive sensor and Polysomnography (PSG) can intelligently distinguish between wake and sleep, as well as taking users’ light and deep sleep states. It will not leave any compression marks on the wrists as you sleep as the design fits the curvature of the wrist perfectly. The bracelet strap material is stain-resistant and comes in three different colours – Classic White, Classic Black, and Cream. The honor Band is IP68 certified, making it dust-proof and waterproof to a depth of 1.5 m. The honor Band Z1 supports Android 4.4.4 and above for non-Huawei smartphones, Android 5.0 and above for Huawei smartphones, as well as iOS 7.0 and above. It has a standby battery life of up to 14 days, or 3 days of continuous use on a single charge. The honor Band Z1 retails for RM259, and is available now from VMALL.MY, Lazada and DirectD.     Honor 5X Together with the Band Z1, honor also unveiled the new honor 5x – a meticulously designed metallic smartphone that features a 5.5-inch 1920 x 1080 pixels Full-HD display, and a second-generation frame-free metallic fingerprint reader. Also introduced was the new honor 7 enhanced edition, an updated model of the popular honor 7 smartphone. It now features 32GB of built-in storage, EMUI operating system version 4.0, and includes a Fast Charging Adaptor. It also now comes in Gold as an exclusive colour for the model. “We are proud to unveil the honor 5X and 7 enhanced edition today. These devices were built with our finest craftsmanship skills and have undergone rigorous and extensive testing, which involved the participation of 500 customers from 11 countries to ensure both products deliver long-lasting performance capabilities and multimedia might for digital natives. Both the honor 5X and 7 enhanced edition are statements of our capability to offer quality-built products that employ creative technology, and reinforces our commitment to creating and bringing superior mobile internet experiences as we expand our worldwide presence,” said Allen An, E-commerce Director, Honor Malaysia. The honor 5X’s sleek body was inspired by the famous Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain, and blends the museum’s distinctive curved design with ergonomics principles to sit comfortably in the users’ hands. It is made with a diamond-polished aluminium alloy and accentuated with a ceramic coating applied with a special brushing technique. honor 5X’s rear panel houses a second-generation, frame-free fingerprint sensor that offers performance, accuracy and a 0.5-second unlocking time. The adaptive sensor boasts a self-learning capability that enhances scanning precision over time through the re-recording of registered fingerprints. The reader also supports intuitive gesture controls such as making a call or launching an app during locked mode, taking photos, pulling down and hiding the notification bar as well as cancelling alarms. Featuring a 5.5-inch 10-point multi-touch Full-HD IPS panel with a 1920×1080 pixel display and 16.7 million colours, the honor 5X has a 72.5 percent screen-to-body ratio. The pixel-by-pixel dynamic contrast adjustment control enables improved contrast under different lighting conditions and visibility through glare. The 13MP back-facing camera features an F2.0 aperture, 28mm wide-angle lens, a blue glass infrared filter, and a macro mode for close-up shots. The camera can capture images even in low light as it has a SmartImage 3.0 image processor and anti-reflective coating on the camera lens. The 5 MP front-facing camera includes a wide-angle F2.4 aperture lens, 22mm wide-angle lens, and an 88-degree viewing angle. It is good for selfies and has some new photo shooting modes such as ultra-snapshot, watermarks and object tracking, as well as video recording modes, which includes time-lapse and slow motion mode. Powered by a Qualcomm 64-bit octa-core processor with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of on-board memory, the honor 5X has more than enough processing power to run most modern 3D games. It also comes with a large 3,000mAh battery, integrated SmartPower 3.0 technology and an eight-point power saving plan that reduces power consumption by up to 30 percent. The 5X is the first metallic honor phone to feature three different card slots — nano-SIM, micro-SIM, and microSD, and both SIM slots are 4G enabled, while the microSD slot supports up to 128GB.   Honor 7 Enhanced Based on the current top-seller model, the honor 7 enhanced edition comes with 32GB of on-board storage (up from 16GB), and a 9V2A Fast Charger, giving the honor 7 enhanced edition the ability to charge at twice the rate of the standard charger. It also comes pre-installed with EMUI 4.0 out of the box, with updates planned in the near future.       The honor 5X will be available in three (3) colours — Gold, Grey, and Silver, while the honor 7 enhanced edition will be available in Gold colour. Registration for interest for both devices begins today, and the official retail prices will be announced at a later date. For more information, head over to www.vmall.my   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/02/04/valentines-day-2019-dinner-at-traders-hotel-kuala-lumpur-dine-with-a-view-of-the-petronas-twin-towers/

Valentine’s Day 2019 Dinner at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur – Dine with a View of the Petronas Twin Towers

[Valentine’s Day Special Feature] This slideshow requires JavaScript. This year, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur has three (3) options for you to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic experience at SkyBar, Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill, and Traders Club Lounge on Level 32. Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill on Level 6 created a special ‘love-inspired’ 6-course menu prepared using the finest ingredients, priced at RM 595 nett per couple including two glasses Veuve Clicquot and a rose for the lady. Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill Valentine’s Day 2019 menu Up at the Traders Club Lounge on Level 32, you can enjoy the beautiful full frontal view of the Petronas Twins Tower dazzling throughout the night, while indulging in a 6-course menu priced at RM795 nett per couple which includes two (2) glasses of Veuve Clicquot together with endless supply of wine and a rose for the lady. Level 32 Traders Hotel Valentine’s Day 2019 menu After dinner, continue your romantic evening at SkyBar Kuala Lumpur with two packages with an option to select food from the hot or cold menus. PACKAGES Cabana Seat (Level 33) priced at RM 700 Choice of Moet Chandon Brut / Moet Chandon Rose Half dozen of roses Chocolate Pralines Cold or Hot Menu Level 34 priced at RM 650 1 bottle of Moet Chandon Brut Half dozen of roses Chocolate Pralines Cold or Hot Menu Cold Menu Bloody Mary with Poached Prawns and Tomatoes Alaskan King Crabs Pacific Fresh Oysters with Black Caviar Poached Yabbies Poached Green Lipped Mussels Hot Menu Grilled Shishamo Fish with grated Radish Baked thyme black Cod Fish Buffalo Chicken Wings Shish Kebab The Valentine’s Day menu at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill will be available from 14 to 17 February 2019, while the menu at Traders Club Lounge, Level 32 and SkyBar will be available exclusively on 14 February 2019.   We got a chance to try the “Valentine’s Cupid” 6-course Valentine’s Day menu at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill which is priced at RM595 nett per couple, and comes with complimentary two (2) glasses of Veuve Clicquot + a rose for the lady.  This set menu is only available from 14 to 17 February 2019.    If you book early, try requesting for a table at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill (on level 6) which faces the Petronas Twin Towers! The Valentine’s Day menu at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill comes with a complimentary rose for the lady and one (1) glass of Veuve Cliquot champagne for each person   BEAUTIFUL DISTRACTION – Gratinated Oyster with Spinach & Parmesan Cheese Oysters are loaded with zinc which increases testosterone, making it the ideal food for love and intimacy, hence they often appear on Valentine’s Day menus! They also go great with champagne! This one was smothered with cheese atop a bed of spinach. Eat it in one bite and close your eyes as you savour the tantalising mix of flavours and umami goodness in your mouth before you wash it all down with some champagne. For someone like me who loves oysters, I really wished that there were more. But fret not as there are many more courses to follow and you’ll need to leave some space for them.      COURTSHIP – Butter Poached Spot Prawns Another dish that goes great with the Veuve Cliquot (or order a glass of house white wine to go along with this) is the butterflied butter poached spot prawns which were very fresh and juicy! We also liked the presentation of this dish which looks better if you take it from top down aka flat lay. The very surprising ingredient on this plate was salted popcorn which really provided a nice bit of contrast in taste and texture!      FIRST KISS – French Onion Soup with melted Gruyere, seed bread crostini A “deconstructed” onion soup with the Gruyere cheese actually inside the heart-shaped seed bread crostinis rather than topping the soup (which can be rather too filling/ cloyingly rich). It was very flavourful and the sweetness of the onions shone through! It was our first time having French Onion Soup like this but hey – my partner and I both liked it!      LEAF US ALONE – Caprese Salad with homemade pesto, mozzarella, Roma tomatoes drizzled with extra virgin olive oil This was a well-balanced little salad, with creaminess from the cheese, piquancy from the tomatoes and balsamic vinegar, and herbs from the pesto, with hints of richness from the extra virgin olive oil. Simple, and well-executed!      RAPTURE (Main Course – choice of) Pan Seared Cod Fish with roasted onion cream, artichokes, squid-ink pasta She had this one but I tried a bit. The cod was perfectly cooked and was complemented by the roasted onion cream, while the squid-ink pasta lent even more umami flavours to this dish! Goes to show that a good dish doesn’t have to involve too many ingredients!   OR Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb with grilled asparagus, charred cherry tomatoes, pommes paillasson, pan jus Order this medium rare and you’ll be rewarded with a lovely pink, juicy and tender rack of lamb that is oh so flavourful due to the herb crust that it really doesn’t even need the pan jus.      SWEET SURRENDER – Dessert for 2 chocolate macadamia cake A very Insta-friendly dessert with lovely bright popping colours especially the pink cotton candy!        My partner in crime with Chef Fun Keng Mun who heads the culinary team at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill Us with Chef Fun Keng Mun   You can also add on some wine to accompany your dinner. The house wine selections are pretty decent!   For reservations, call +603 2332 9818 or email thkl@tradershotels.com   Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill is located at: Level 6, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Dress Code: Smart Casual Website: http://www.shangri-la.com/kualalumpur/traders/dining/    Thanks for having us! All photos shot with the Huawei Mate 10 Pro. While the Mate 10 Pro’s camera can be set to full manual mode, I feel that it’s more important to spend quality time actually TALKING to your partner rather than fiddling with the settings to shoot the perfect photo. To be honest, the camera’s AI is intelligent enough to detect the scene and adjust the camera’s settings to best suit it hence saving you a lot of trouble and time. If you’re so obsessed with having that perfect photo, you can always post-process it. As far as I’m concerned, when you’re out with your loved one, family, friends, or colleagues or basically anyone, do give them the courtesy and respect by putting away your phone (unless you want to snap some quick photos to immortalise the occasion). . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/08/26/review-jabra-tag-bluetooth-headset/

Review – Jabra Tag Bluetooth Headset

[Sponsored Post] Earlier this year I did a review on a set of cool Jabra Bluetooth Solemate speakers (you can read about that here – https://timchew.net/2013/01/02/tech-jabra-solemate-portable-speakers/) which looked like a shoe. Jabra is a global producer of innovative headset and speakerphone solutions and is owned by parent company GN Store Nord from Denmark. Jabra launched the world’s first Bluetooth headset for mobile phones back in 2000 and since then has been producing lots of cool products for consumers.  Their headset range has repeatedly been recognized as the gold standard in innovation and design, and they have received numerous product and design awards, including the CES Innovation, the iF product design award, a Red Dot Mobile Choice Best Accessory, the T3 Gold award and CNET Editor’s Choice. Recently Jabra has been coming out with some pretty cool looking products like the aforementioned Solemate speakers (it was really fun using it as a phone, imagine the look on your friends’ faces when you pick up something that looks like a shoe and start talking into it) and now they have come up with the Jabra tag which is designed to resemble…military dog tags! . Who says wearing a Bluetooth headset has to make you look like a geek? Look cool and stay safe on the road with the new Jabra Tag! The Jabra Tag is designed for trendy, practical and fashionable mobile users who are always on the go, and the device (which resembles military dog-tags) streams music and calls from your smartphone/ phones/ Bluetooth equipped devices without the hassle of wires. The Jabra Tag features a smooth, curved metallic body with a matte finish and comes in either black or white colour. You can wear it around your neck as you would a dog tag or clip it to your outfit or bag. The set includes 1 Jabra Tag headset, 1 AC charger, 2 extra sets of noice-isolating eargels (ie. 3 in total), the quick start manual and the warranty. The Jabra tag (main unit) measures 56mm (length) x 34.5mm (width) x 8.3mm (height) and weighs only 30g. Want to use your own earphones with it? Not a problem. Just switch the headphones in the 3.5mm jack connector. What if you have two (2) mobile phones? Not an issue as the Jabra Tag can connect to two (2) mobile devices simultaneously, and also provides in-built FM radio entertainment if you’re using it by itself. . The Jabra Tag utilizes Bluetooth version 3.0 and has an operating range of up to 10 meters (33 feet). It also has a talk time up to 8 hours or music time up to 7 hours while the standby time is up to 8 days (on a 2 hours charge). The Jabra Tag is easy to operate with only three (3) buttons on the front with the multi-function button doing most of the work while the volume buttons are on the side. For those less-tech inclined fret not as there is voice guidance (yes the tag actually instructs you what to do!) to assist you with the operation of the device making it pretty much – IDIOT PROOF! Tomcat says – I have a couple of Bluetooth headsets throughout the years ranging from the hang on the ear type to the clip on type but I must say that this is the most stylish one I’ve ever seen. It’s pretty easy to use and so light to wear. I don’t condone talking on the phone while driving as it takes concentration away from your driving no matter how good a driver you are. However if you must talk while driving make sure you do it safely and the Jabra Tag helps you with that without getting yourself tangled up in wires coming from your smartphone. Simply clip it on your clothes or hang it around your neck and place ONE (1) earbud into your ear and leave the other one as you’ll need to listen out for warnings such as cars honking. When you’re out on a jog or run only use both noise-isolating earbuds when you’re in a safe running environment (ie. no traffic, criminals, etc. etc.) like in a park or in a gated community. The Jabra Tag brings back style into the Bluetooth headset which has become somewhat unchanged throughout the years, and enables you to listen to your favourite radio station while offering good sound quality. The Jabra Tag retails in white or black at RRP RM299.00 at All IT Hypermarket, Challenger stores, Apple premium resellers Machines,  Charlie Cellular, Connect Store and other authorised Jabra resellers. Do check out other Jabra devices such as the Jabra Play, Jabra Revo Wireless, Jabra Revo Corded and Jabra Vox. For more information, visit www.jabra.com . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/07/07/hong-leong-banks-digital-day-2020-reboot-your-2020/

Hong Leong Bank’s Digital Day 2020 – “Reboot Your 2020”

[Finance News]   Hong Leong Bank (HLB) launched its annual Digital Day campaign on 6 July 2020, kickstarting its new financial year with its 4th annual HLB Digital Day, themed “Reboot Your 2020”, with the on-going goal of encouraging and rewarding more customers to continue to embrace the digital lifestyle. Domenic Fuda, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of HLB said that the MCO period has provided individuals and businesses with a live test-case on how digital platforms, including digital banking and payments, could help them continue to live life and run their business uninterrupted. This greater digital adoption and digital transformation of the economy will increase the importance of all Malaysians being more agile, adaptive and digitally minded. “As we settle into the ‘new normal’, everything we touch and do now will involve a digital element. The need to be digitally-savvy and competent is no longer a choice, but a necessity. In fact, a study done just before the pandemic showed that 69% of Malaysian respondents were planning to use cashless payment methods (Source: https://www.theedgemarkets.com/article/visa-over-70-malaysians-supportive-cashless-payment) more often. The pandemic would only have hastened the digital shift and cashless adaptation,” said Fuda.   Domenic Fuda, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hong Leong Bank speaking at the press conference on 6 July 2020   From May 2019 to May 2020, HLB witnessed another significant year-on-year (“y-o-y”) increase in downloads and usage of their digital banking platforms. As of May 2020, almost 80% of HLB customers are regularly using HLB Connect, the bank’s mobile banking app, an increase of over a quarter over the past year alone. An interesting statistic was that customers aged above 50 recorded the biggest year-over-year increase at 42%. Mobile banking transactions recording an impressive spike across the board with an 80% increase in total transaction amount and a 75% increase in the number of transactions conducted. However, it is the big leap in cashless adoption during MCO that showed how fast Hong Leong Bank’s customers adjusted to this new normal, and this was also driven by more vendors and merchants offering cashless payment options. The bank saw a 13-fold increase in the total amount/ transactional value of e-wallet top-ups over a period of 2-months March-May 2020, compared to the same period last year. “This Digital Day, now in its fourth year, further underlines our commitment to be a highly competitive digital financial institution.  We continue to invest in building customer-focused digital solutions across all customer segments that will further facilitate frictionless banking, 24X7, without the need to having to visit a branch or fill in paper forms. This year’s annual Digital Day campaign is aptly titled “Reboot Your 2020” as we confidently move forward and leave behind the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic during the second quarter of 2020,” said Fuda. Throughout the coming year, customers can look forward to more digital “reboots” and enhancements across all banking segments not just retail, including Business and Corporate Banking, SME and Islamic banking. The new digital solutions that will be rolled out are aimed at greatly easing the transition and adoption of a digital lifestyle. Some of these include low-cost contactless payment solutions, mobile banking upgrades for business customers, digital investments, eKYC account opening, as well as, expanding on existing offerings to create more convenient, customer focused products and services.   Charles Sik, Managing Director of Personal Financial Services shared that many of the Bank’s customers are eager to get back into social routines again under the new normal of eased restrictions.   “In the past three months, we have been riddled with uncertainties especially on the impact COVID-19 would have on employment and income, which led us to tighten our belts on spending. Now that we are entering a recovery mode, our customers have indicated that spending time with friends and family by dining out, doing outdoor activities and travelling locally as the three main social activities they are ready to pursue immediately within the next six months. Hence, we have centered this year’s HLB Digital Day with a line-up of exciting deals and promotions for the entire month of July around dining, shopping and travel, on top of banking, to enable our customers to reboot their 2020 and lifestyles,” said Sik “Knowing that we have entered a new normal where digital and contactless payments have become an essential part of everyday life, we have also expanded our partnerships with relevant market players to cater to our customers lifestyle aspirations for the rest of the year. These include e-commerce players such as Lazada, Shopee, Zalora and Hermo, as well as hotel deals for those looking to travel domestically,” he added. On 7 July 2020, Hong Leong Bank’s official Digital Day, there will be seven 1-day only mega deals: ·        HLB credit cardholders can enjoy up to RM700 in cashback, whereas new credit cardholders can get a 50% off on retail spend ·        Cardholders can also enjoy a Flexi-Payment Plan (FPP) of 0% interest rate p.a. ·        Get personal loans from a 3.20% interest rate p.a. with POT rebate via HLB Connect ·        e-Fixed Deposit rates at 2.80% p.a. for 3 months ·        Term investment-I rates at 2.95% p.a. for 3 months ·        Call-for-Cash from 1% p.a. over three months or 3% p.a. over 18 months ·        SMEs also enjoy a 2-month free subscription to the Bank’s SME Digital Business Solutions and 60% off Kakitangan subscription   Additionally, there will be on-going deals for the whole month of July 2020 with discounts and freebies from merchant partners including 99Speedmart, PUMA, Amazin Graze and many more when you shop online with HLB. Similarly, customers can enjoy higher cashback and rewards as well as attractive interest rates for loans and financing, term investments, fixed deposits, CASA accounts and more, throughout the month. Customers should also save-the -date on 20 July as there will be an additional 1-day only Mega Sale with over RM1 million in cashback and discounts up for grabs. For more information on HLB Digital Day 2020, head over to http://www.hlb.com.my/digitalday   Photo credits: Hong Leong Bank . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/11/20/peugeot-at-the-guangzhou-2020-motor-show-world-premiere-of-the-new-4008-and-5008-suvs-launch-of-the-508-l-phev-sedan/

PEUGEOT at the Guangzhou 2020 Motor Show: World Premiere of the New 4008 and 5008 SUVs, Launch of the 508 L PHEV Sedan

[Automotive News] On 20 November 2020, the new PEUGEOT 4008 and 5008 will be unveiled to the public for the first time in China, on the DONGFENG PEUGEOT booth at the Guangzhou trade fair. These new models will be launched in the first months of 2021. The new PEUGEOT 508 L PHEV, a modern and dynamic Plug-In Hybrid sedan, is officially launching at a price of 215 700 yuans. The PEUGEOT 4008 and 5008 embody the inspired and modern design of the European models. In China, PEUGEOT now has a completely renewed SUV offer. This range is made even more appealing with the launch of the PEUGEOT 508 L PHEV Plug-In hybrid sedan. This is the third electrified model to be launched in one year, following the PEUGEOT e-2008 100% electric and the PEUGEOT 4008 PHEV 4WD, a high-performance Plug-In hybrid with all-wheel drive. DONGFENG PEUGEOT is determined to accelerate its development on the Chinese market, with its technological range highlighting bold design features. The brand is sending a strong signal to Peugeot enthusiasts in China with the launch of these three new products at the Guangzhou Motor Show, combined with PEUGEOT’s 210 years of history. New PEUGEOT 4008 and 5008: bold design, refreshed SUV range The new PEUGEOT 4008 and 5008 adopt the design codes of their European cousins. Their radiator grille uses a technical pattern, which starts around the central lion and merges with the flanks, for a spectacular visual effect.  Vertical LED lights showcase the modernity of the front end. The 3D claw tail lights and scrolling indicators highlight the technology. The overall silhouette combines elegance, dynamism and feline grace. The PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® evolves to be even more modern and to remain the benchmark in the C-SUV segment in China.  The new central touchscreen is 10 inches in size and high definition. It comes with the “toggle switches”. Combined with the 12.3-inch digital heads-up panel, the driving experience is amplified. The interior features new decos and the “Habana” (brown) leather upholstery is now available on 4008. The new PEUGEOT 4008 and 5008 are the flagship models of the DONGFENG PEUGEOT SUV range. After the launch of the PEUGEOT 2008 and e-2008 last May, the completely renewed SUV range is moving upmarket and asserting its identity with robust design features. These new models embody the innovative spirit of PEUGEOT, which is celebrating its 210 years of existence in 2020. The DNA of the world’s oldest automotive brand is based on its engineers and designers who have been shaking up the standards to rethink mobility, technology and design. New PEUGEOT 508 L PHEV, new electric range The PEUGEOT 508 L PHEV Plug-In hybrid sedan will be an eye-catching feature for visitors to the Guangzhou show. It targets “modern hedonists” urban users who are looking for quality products, new technologies and quality of life. The exterior design of the PEUGEOT 508 L PHEV is inspired by the EXALT and INSTINCT concept cars, visible through its dynamic and sharp silhouette and the design of its grille. The signature on the nosepiece of the bonnet pays tribute to the 504. The PEUGEOT i-Cockpit ® (digital handset, compact steering wheel and touch-screen with piano keys) gives the interior a futuristic, high-quality look. The PEUGEOT 508L PHEV is equipped with the 360 THP (turbocharged direct injection) combustion engine combined with the Aisin electric motor. They are coupled to an 8-speed Aisin automatic gearbox. Their combined power reaches 183 kW and maximum torque 360 Nm. There are three available driving modes: 100% electric, Hybrid and Sport. Driving pleasure is further enhanced by the chassis and by the ADAS 2.0 semi-autonomous driving aids. Safety is optimal with a battery protection device in the event of a collision, tested in 12 extreme conditions. Official prices for the new generation sedan PEUGEOT 508 L PHEV:– 360 THP Plug-In Hybrid Technological Edition: 215 700 yuans (27 700 Euros)– 360 THP Plug-In Hybrid Driving Control Edition: 227 700 yuans (29 200 Euros). DONGFENG PEUGEOT is hereby ramping up its “Move to Electric” strategy. By 2023, all PEUGEOT models will have an electric version in addition to an internal combustion version. By 2025, the range will be fully electrified.“The 100% electric or Plug-In hybrid technologies now available in the PEUGEOT range cover the main segments of the Chinese market: urban SUVs, compact SUVs as well as mid-range and top-of-the-range sedans with the PEUGEOT 508 L PHEV sedan.” According to David GUERIN, General Manager of DONGFENG PEUGEOT. The DONGFENG MOTOR and PSA groups have recently extended their cooperation through their Joint Venture until 2037. DONGFENG PEUGEOT remains faithful to its guiding principles: to design models with a PEUGEOT identity, with specific Chinese stylistic features. The “Yuan +” plan and the “5 guarantees” support this range by providing customers with trust and reinsurance. In the years to come, DONGFENG PEUGEOT will follow the “1+N” product strategy, which will guarantee the launch of at least one new model per year, as well as exclusive models, which will meet the expectations of Chinese customers. The PSA Group’s next platforms and models will be systematically introduced on the Chinese market. “The new 4008, 5008 and 508 L PHEV models, launched at the Guangzhou show, will become DONGFENG PEUGEOT’s new standard-bearers. These new products are associated with the PEUGEOT 508 L saloon 508 L 2021 version and will accelerate its growth”, underlines Chen Bin, Vice President of Dongfeng Motor Corporation, General Manager of DPCA and Secretary of the Party Committee. DONGFENG PEUGEOT will be showcasing its entire range on its booth located in Hall 3.1 of the Guangzhou Motor Show, from 20 to 29 November. The new SUV PEUGEOT 4008 and 5008 with their inspired design as well as the electric range (PEUGEOT e-2008, 4008 PHEV 4WD and 508 L PHEV) will be taking pride of place. From 21 November, visitors will be able to rediscover the PEUGEOT 508 L “2021” sedan, the 2008 SUV PEUGEOT as well as the PEUGEOT 408 sedan. The Lion brand ambassador in XL size will be the main feature to identify PEUGEOT’s stand. Photo credits: Peugeot Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/05/01/editors-note-may-2018/

Editor’s Note – May 2018

[Editor’s Note] Aussie Bushman’s BBQ at Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel    Executive Chef Supi Mansor and team are thrilled to fire up the grill for an Aussie Bushman‘s Barbecue experience at the Poolside Gazebo every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Located on Level 4, the Poolside Gazebo is overlooking an Olympic-sized swimming pool and set amidst lush greeneries. From the gazebo, you get to view the sunset and chill, while enjoying the Aussie Bushman’s BBQ and a live DJ who will provide the tunes for the evening. “Our Australian style barbecue offers diners an a la carte choice of meats and seafood, hot off the grill and straight to the dining table plus an unlimited salads, soup and desserts. Aussie style barbecue uses simple marinade of garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper to retain the original flavors of the grilled meat or seafood. Crustaceans such as prawns and lobsters are cooked in their shells to preserve the juiciness,” said Chef Supi. The BBQ is priced from RM25nett onwards, and basically you select your main from a variety of marinated meats and seafood such as tenderloin, rib eye, sirloin, lamb chops and skewers of beef, chicken, scallop and prawns or even the Drunken Aussie Burger (which was juicy and delicious!), and pay the corresponding price. On top of your main, you can help yourself to the mini-buffet which consists of soup of the day, salad bar and a dessert bar!    Step 1 – Select your main Step 2 – The chefs will then prepare the main for you on the barbie In the meantime, go help yourself to the soup and salad Step 3 – Your selection of main is served! Bon appetite! Your main also comes with corn on the cob, roasted vegetables, and a loaded baked potato so don’t be too greedy with the soup and salad otherwise you’ll have trouble finishing your meal. Remember that there’s also a dessert bar! The Drunken Aussie Burger was really really good! A tender and juicy patty served with 2 solid burger buns! Definitely enough to fill me up! I somehow found some space to have this beef tenderloin as well which I ordered to be cooked to medium rare (please don’t eat a steak beyond medium or you’ll be eating a piece of rubber) and it turned out tender and flavourful! Step 4 – Help yourself to the desserts at the dessert bar. There’s a decent selection that should satisfy most sweet tooths! Pavlova! I couldn’t stop eating these delightful little macadamia tarts and I’m a person who dislikes desserts!   Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel is located at: Corner of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.    For reservations or more info, call 03 2771 6692 or email rhi.kulrn.fb@renaissancehotels.com Website: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kulrn-renaissance-kuala-lumpur-hotel/    Thanks for having us!     An Evening With The Phantom – Songs From The Musicals   My partner in crime and I made our way over to the Berjaya Times Square Hotel in Kuala Lumpur on 18 April 2018 for the much awaited “An Evening With The Phantom – Songs From The Musicals” Royal Charity Gala Premiere which was held in the hotel’s Manhattan Ballroom. The Royal Charity Gala was graced by YMM Tunku Ampuan Tuanku Najihah Binti Tunku Besar Burhanuddin in aid of Tuanku Ja’afar Educational Trust (TJET). The Tuanku Ja’afar Educational Trust (TJET) was established 25 years ago with the vision to provide educational support to those who are in the lower-income bracket. The Chairman of The Board of Trustees of TJET, Y.A.M. Tunku Naquiyuddin ibni Tuanku Ja’afar strongly believe that the provision of proper educational opportunities and necessary financial support are essential to the beneficiaries to succeed and fairly join the ranks of those with jobs and career opportunities. As at to date, TJET has raised RM320,000 worth of financial assistance benefitting thousands of students during  the charity event. An Evening With The Phantom – Songs From The Musicals was held in conjunction with the iconic musical’s 30th anniversary on Broadway – The Phantom Of The Opera. Featuring the casts from The Phantom itself – Michael Cormick and Claire Lyon, the 75 minutes musical celebration transported guests back to 1881 in Opera Populaire with the greatest hits from The Phantom Of The Opera and highlighting the very best of melodies from other popular musicals.   Lots of “mandatory” photos at the photowall before the show. We bumped into Janet at the show The show soon got underway what a show it was!    Michael Cormick and Claire Lyon together with the musicians entertained us to many popular numbers including Phantom of The Opera, A Whole New World (from Disney’s Aladdin), Memory, Impossible Dream, All That Jazz, Sound Of Music – The Sound of Music, My Favourite Things, Something Good, Edelweiss (which they got the whole audience to join in and sing!), and Climb Every Mountain. After a short intermission, the show continued with music from West Side Story – Tonight, I Feel Pretty, Maria, Somewhere, (Disney’s) Beauty & The Beast, I Dreamed A Dream | Bring Him Home, I Could Have Danced All Night | Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again | Angel of Music | Think Of Me | Music Of The Night, and All I Ask of You.       An Evening With The Phantom – Songs From The Musicals was presented by Milestone Production. A portion of the proceeds from the ticket sales was channelled to Tuanku Ja’afar Educational Trust. For more info, head over to http://www.milestone-entertainment.com/    Thanks for having us!    Photo credits: Milestone Production and author’s own.     Time to Save Malaysia My fellow Malaysians, The time to choose between good and evil will be upon us very soon. It will be an epic battle for the very soul of the country. Let us be realistic here – we’re fighting an uphill battle against corruption, lies, deceit, cheating, and abuse of power. They will use every single dirty tactic they can because they know that if they lose – all their misdeeds will be exposed for all to see. However if enough of the rakyat has the courage, moral fibre, righteous principles and ethics to stand up against this grave threat plaguing our beautiful nation, we can still overcome these tremendous odds, and then work towards rebuilding the nation. I’m asking you to have HOPE and decide whether you will stay at home on polling day, or vote for more of the same horrible rotten nonsense, or vote for change and a chance to make a better future for yourself and your loved ones. The future lies in your hands! Think of your parents, your family, your children, your grandchildren, your friends, etc. etc. Would you want them to live in a kleptocracy which encourages racial hatred and extremism? Or in a country which is managed properly, has a flourishing economy, where truth and enlightenment are celebrated and not labelled as “fake news”, where the citizens of all races are united and celebrate their diversity. Those dirty and corrupt politicians are NOT entitled to rule the country. They rule because not enough good people stood up against them. It’s time to regain our country’s independence and pride. Together we can win! We can change Malaysia for the better! . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/09/09/honor-8-launched-in-malaysia/

Honor 8 Launched in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets]    Headed over to Nexus Bangsar South on 6 September 2016 for the launch of honor’s latest smartphone the honor 8. Now some of you might recall that I did review the honor 7 earlier this year – honor’s 2015/16 flagship model that the honor 8 is replacing. The honor 7 is already one very capable phone but the honor 8 is a whole new level altogether! Within a span of only two (2) years, honor has developed quite a reputation for providing affordable yet powerful smartphones, with good design to boot, factors that meet the needs of digital natives aka the Gen Y and Z. honor has emerged as a smartphone e-brand leader registering USD6 billion in sales revenue and 40 million in shipments for 2015 alone. This is due to the fact that the brand (which is under Huawei) invests significantly in R&D to drive innovation and bring better experiences to customers. Malaysian is one of the first countries to launch the honor 8, following its global launch in Paris less than a month ago. This new flagship from honor has a unique glass design on its back which reflects light beautifully, and taking the technology from its Huawei flagship cousin, has dual-lens colour and monochrome camera, powerful processor and long-lasting battery. With a key focus on young digital natives, honor has engaged Brooklyn Beckham (son of footballer David Beckham), model and budding photographer, as the global ambassador for the brand.     At the launch in Kuala Lumpur, Allen An, E-Commerce Director of honor Malaysia, explained that the honor 8 keeps up honor’s promise for the brave. “honor Malaysia understands the evolving demands of youth today. With the honor 8, we have gone further to ensure that our honor fans do not have to choose between a beautifully-crafted device and an all-powerful device. As a versatile device, the stunning and sparkling design of the honor 8 is a fashion statement on its own while being an accessory that packs hardcore performance to fit the lifestyle of digital natives.” “honor goes beyond industry norms and market conventions with a high regard for aesthetic value. At the same time, we balance design with innovation, speed and connectivity, key features that young digital natives are looking for,” Allen said.       The honor 8’s sleek design emanates from its 2.5D glass body on both sides of the phone and diamond-cut aluminium alloy edges that create an ultra-narrow bezel. The 3D grate design and 15-layer craftsmanship on the back of the device, combines with the glass/metal back is able to reflect and create eye-catching light reflections.  For those who like snapping photos (like me!), there’s the dual-lens 12MP camera with advanced features such as dual ISP, 1.25μm, and F2.2 wide aperture to capture sharp images and you can even redefine the focal point after a picture has been taken. Girls especially will be happy with the 8MP front-facing camera with 1.4μm pixels and unique software suite such as the “Perfect Selfie” mode and Low Light Portrait mode.     The honor 8 runs on the Kirin 950 processor with an 8-core CPU up to 2.3HGz with 16nm FinFET architecture, coupled with 4GB of RAM should be more than sufficient for smooth performance for resource hungry apps while enabling multi-tasking without lag. Honor claims that this new flagship will provide 1.77 days of usage for normal users and 1.22 days for heavy users (depending on usage and network condition) out of this beauty, thanks to its 3,000mAh battery supported by Smart Power 4.0. It also comes with fast-charging ability gives 47% battery charge in just 30 minutes. The new 3D fingerprint scanner does more than just unlock the phone and provides instant access to popular functions. The screen is a 5.2-inch FHD display equipped with 96% high-colour gamut, colour enhancement technology, and dynamic pixel-level contrast adjustment, and an eye-protection mode which lowers the level of blue light emitted by the screen in dim lighting. The honor 8 comes in four (4) colour variants: Sapphire Blue, Sunrise Gold, Pearl White and Midnight Black. The Pearl White and Midnight Black standard variants come with a 4GB RAM and 32GB storage space, and is priced at RM1,699. The premium Sapphire Blue and Sunrise Gold variants come with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage space and are priced at RM1,899.     The honor 8 goes on sale on September 8, and is available via honor Malaysia’s official e-commerce partners Vmall Malaysia and Lazada Malaysia. You can also purchase the honor 8 at honor Malaysia’s official retail partners: DirectD (Federal Highway & SS15 outlet) and SenHeng. List of SenHeng Stores carrying the honor 8: IOI City Mall (Putrajaya) Alamanda Shopping Mall (Putrajaya) Leisure Mall (Cheras) Aeon Seremban 2 (Seremban) Sunway Carnival (Ipoh) Ipoh Parade (Ipoh) Sutera Mall (Skudai) Aeon Kota Bharu (Kota Bharu) Cityone Magemall (Kuching) Karamunsing Complex (Kota Kinabalu)   honor Malaysia also launched the honor 5A which expands on the brand’s range of affordable smartphones. The device is powered by the Kirin 620 chipset with octa-core 64-bit high-speed CPU and comes with 2GB of RAM, and 16GB of internal storage (microSD up to 128GB). The honor 5A runs on Android 5.1, and comes with a 5.5-inch HD display with 1280×720 pixel resolution and is powered by a 3,100 mAh battery. The honor 5A has a 13 MP rear camera and a 8MP front camera, equipped with advanced modes such as Light Painting, Professional and Time-lapse. The device comes in Black and White, priced at RM599, while the Gold variant is priced at RM629.   You can purchase the Honor 8 online at these online stores: VMall Malaysia: http://www.vmall.my Lazada Malaysia: http://www.lazada.com.my/ For more information, head over to http://www.hihonor.com/my or www.facebook.com/HuaweiHonorMY Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/03/17/romantic-dining-spots-madisons-jalan-bangkung/

Romantic Dining Spots – Madisons @ Jalan Bangkung

Updated Dec 2015 – Madisons has ceased operations [Romantic Dining Spots] My partner in crime (for convenience sake let’s call her Miss C) frequents an eatery along Jalan Bangkung quite often, and this time round I decided to bring her over to an unassuming little restaurant called Madisons tucked among the older establishments there. Typically Aussie, Madisons is a laid back restaurant but don’t let looks fool you as they serve up some modern Australian fare at prices that won’t leave you broke. The restaurant although only occupying a single shoplot, offers a cosy dining area with sofas at the back, a large bar counter for those more inclined for a couple of drinks, and an al-fresco area with high tables and chairs outside for those who prefer some “fresh air” (not advisable during the haze season of course). As we were there for dinner, the friendly staff seated us in the main dining area which offered a good view of the happenings in the open kitchen. We were there on a weekday and the restaurant offered a nice quiet ambiance (there were a couple of tables of diners but otherwise it was not full) and there weren’t any rowdy drinkers around. I guess the location (ie. Bangsar) has a big impact on the customer profile and customers were generally well-mannered and absorbed in their own conversations with their friends. Apart from Miss C, with me for this visit was the newly launched Sony Alpha 5000 camera and this was my first real test to see how it would perform to shoot food in an indoor setting. My partner in crime – let’s call her Miss C as she’s somewhat of a reserved person The warm and stylish interior plays with just a few colours – wood tones matched against clean white, while the long mirror adds the illusion of space to this single shop lot restaurant. Tables were set comfortably apart so you won’t feel like people are listening in on your conversation, while the open kitchen is where you can see Chef Kelly and her assistants in action whipping up food for hungry customers. Madisons has a wide selection of wines, liquors, and beers to go along with your meal. If you need a recommendation you can ask the friendly staff to suggest some that will match your food. For our meal, we had a different wine specially paired with each course. FYI a glass of Asahi Super Dry goes for RM17.00 and a pint for RM30.00 while a glass of Stella Artois will set you back RM20.00 (all prices before taxes). For white wines, prices start from RM115.00 per bottle while red wines start from RM124.00 per bottle. There’s also a premium range of wines starting from RM257.00 while there are also single malt whiskies like AUCHENTOSHAN, Yamazaki and Hibiki, cocktails, mocktails, fresh juices, coffee, tea and more available from their extensive beverage list. BTW for those of you who enjoy a drink or two or three, Madisons has special happy hour prices which I’ve included at the bottom of this post. Pate Tuft duck and chicken liver pate, red wine jelly, compressed baby pears Paired with Villa Sandi Rose Prosecco. Ice Cream? Surely not? At first glance Miss C and I thought we were served dessert but it turned out to be a scoop of deliciously creamy and earthy duck and chicken liver pate. To be eaten together with the pate were garlic croutons (below the scoop of pate) and to my delight we were given extra croutons. The red wine jelly was something new to me but acted together with the sweet compressed baby pear to balance out the creamy taste of the pate while the croutons added some crispy texture to each bite. Liked the presentation of this dish which is simple yet eye-catching. The prosecco that was paired with this dish was dry and fresh with fruity and flowery notes that also helped to balance out the creamy pate. The garlic croutons were tremendously addictive especially when eaten with the pate, and I had to stop devouring them and remind myself that there were more dishes for us to savour that night. Asparagus Butter poached asparagus spears, sous-vide egg, sultana & shaved almond panna grattato, and truffle honey. Paired with La Gioiosa, Pinot Grigio Italy. This was Miss C’s favourite dish of the night as it contained two (2) of her favourite items – asparagus and a beautifully cooked egg. This was a play of different textures and flavours – the silky smooth and creamy egg yolk against the crispy asparagus and almonds while the sultanas and truffle honey added just a hint of sweetness and earthy aroma.  The La Gioiosa Pinot Grigio was a clean and neutral flavoured wine with hints of peaches and a nice crispness about it. Just what was needed to complement a dish that was bursting with flavours! Now that’s the way to eat this dish with all the beautiful flavours in one bite. #yolkporn Chef Kelly putting the finishing touches to the sea bass making sure that the dish looks as well as tastes great! Chef Kelly hails from Australia and her resume includes award winning restaurants in both Adelaide and Melbourne.  Now plying her trade in Kuala Lumpur with her husband and daughter Madison (yes the restaurant is named after her daughter), Chef Kelly offers Malaysian diners an opportunity to taste some sophisticated Australian cuisine in the swanky neighbourhood of Bangsar. Local Sea Bass Pan seared, parsnip puree, house made cured sausage, beetroot chips Paired with Stanley Estates, Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand. The sea bass was nice and fresh but the most outstanding part of this dish was the beetroot chips! Cut and fried to resemble potato chips, these flavourful chips really added a fresh dimension to the dish while I also liked the silky smooth parsnip puree and little bits of sausage that provided a savoury flavour. I wonder if Chef Kelly would give me a whole bag of beetroot chips to take home. I must remember to ask her next time. I’m really starting to like New Zealand wines. I know New Zealand is not really a traditional wine-growing country but they have been producing some good wines of late. The Sauvignon Blanc had citrus note with a pleasant slightly floral bouquet that complemented the dish. Beef Cheeks Slow cooked with potato puree, roasted cherry tomato, horseradish cream Paired with Escale Pinot Noir, France. Miss C and I both liked this dish a lot. Melt in the mouth tender beef cheeks over a bed or smooth potato puree with roasted cherry tomatoes to add some acidity and horseradish cream to add a tiny bit of zing. Don’t worry, the horseradish is not at all like wasabi. I really liked the balance of flavours in this dish, and I experimented eating with different amounts of the horseradish cream with the beef. This dish was paired with the Escale Pinot Noir (red meat = red wine? white meat = white wine? Well it depends on your personal preference however unless you are well versed with your wines you should try to stick to this guide. If in doubt ask your server for a recommendation) which was a somewhat fruity wine with hints of berries while being smooth on the palate. Quite an elegant wine which did not overpower the dish (is was a Pinot Noir after all). Selection Of Mini Desserts Lemon meringue, Hazelnut chocolate dips, and Chocolate torte with white chocolate mousse Paired with Prosecco. I love chocolate so two out of three items in this dessert were already winners for me. OK I’m biased but in all honesty the hazelnut chocolate dips were the first to go then I needed some tartness from the lemon meringue to balance out my palate before I proceeded to finish the creamy white chocolate mousse which came with something resembling and tasting like a chocolate brownie. Miss C who’s not much of a sweet tooth was busy enjoying her Prosecco. The way to a girl’s heart – champagne! Or a Burberry bag… . The degustation menu above is priced at RM200++ per pax and is NOT available yet. Madisons will start this special chef’s pairing of food & wine in April 2014 and will range from RM180++ to RM220++ so do keep an eye on their Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/madisonskl I think a 5 course meal paired with wines for RM200++ per pax is acceptable, especially for the quality of the food and wines and its location in the upmarket neighbourhood of Bangsar. I’ve had far more expensive (and sometimes less impressive) meals and I think this special degustation menu at Madisons does warrant a visit for a special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary. If you’re looking for something not so taxing on the wallet in these cash-strapped times you could always look at the ala carte menu OR try Madisons Classic Lunch Menu which goes for RM35++ (choice of 1 entrée and 1 main) or RM40++ (choice of 1 entree, 1 main and a dessert plate). Madisons also provides special group packages for groups of more than 10 pax, with prices starting from RM50++ to RM100++ per pax for lunch, and RM70++ to RM120++ per pax for dinner. Romantic ambiance: 7/10 . MADISONS is located at 65, Jalan Bangkung, Bukit Bandaraya, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. . Telephone: 603-20921222 Email: info.madisonskl@gmail.com . Operating hours: Open daily (Mon – Sun) from 11.00am till late There is ample parking along Jalan Bangkung in the evenings. More info at http://www.madisonskl.com . Photos shot with the Sony Alpha 5000. More info on the camera at http://bit.ly/1eLboU1 #sonymalaysia #sonyalpha5000 . As promised, here are the happy hour prices! . I’m looking forward to trying this sometime soon as I’m quite a sucker for a good breakfast. . Apart from their normal menu, Madisons also has chef specials every now and then and here’s the latest one. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/12/01/editors-note-december-2016/

Editor’s Note – December 2016

[Editor’s Note] Just like that, 2016 is coming to a close with the new year (and new adventures) beckoning. 2016 went by in a flash and I guess it’s because I really enjoyed myself, during work (in case you didn’t know, I run the digital media Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers – www.hottestbloggers.com) and also my after-work activities such as food reviews, events and parties (although I must say that I cut down on partying quite a bit). Now 2016 is not without its share of downs as the local economy and political scene is in turmoil (you can read about what I really feel about this whole mess in a separate post) however life goes on and we have to make the best out of the situation while working towards change for a better and cleaner country. To digress away from politics, I like Facebook’s new feature which rolled out this year where they remind you what you posted in previous years and this little video which I made a couple of years back popped up!     A nice little reminder of all the pretty girls I know. My only beef is that the photo quality could have been better but back then I was using a Nikon Coolpix compact until 2010 then a Canon Powershot G12. Not too bad during their day however digital camera technology has advanced quite a bit since then. Speaking of digital cameras, the folks at Canon Malaysia sent over their latest DSLR shooter – the Canon EOS 80D for me to play with.   Canon EOS 80D   The EOS 80D comes with a 24 MP APS-C CMOS with a DIGIC 6 processor with a viewfinder coverage of approximately 100%. The newly-developed 45-point, all cross-type AF sensor and continuous shooting speed of up to 7.0fps made it pretty handy for capturing moving subjects. Movie shooting at a quality of up to Full HD 60p is also supported, and Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which makes it possible to achieve high speed AF during Live View shooting, has been enhanced to be compatible for use with all EF lenses. Remote shooting and image sharing with smart devices is also possible as the camera supports Wi-Fi and NFC. Now here’s a look at some of the photos I shot with the camera.   The camera performs great in good lighting while the autofocus focused on the subject and even tracked the subject accurately. The level of detail was so good I ended up shooting in medium sized JPEG format most of the time. The girls loved the fact that there was a portrait mode which provides a (slightly) softer complexion and more natural skin tones. Fortunately the skin softening effect was nowhere near the fakeness level of some of the beauty cams in the market like the Casio TR series. Another portrait shot in good lighting But I always feel that the full test of a camera’s capabilities are in low lighting situations such as indoors in a romantic restaurant. I used the Night Portrait mode for this shot and while most girls hate photographers using direct flash I must say that the flash was not too harsh and the colours were pretty acceptable (although I think a bounced flash would still be much nicer). Another shot using the Night Portrait mode This one was a bit tricky as I had a few drinks thus my hands were a bit shaky for fortunately for me the lens that came with the camera had image stabilisation An outdoors night portrait shot in patchy yellow lighting I also used the cam for some food reviews and I loved the colour reproduction The touch shutter came in very handy for food photography however as the camera is too heavy for one handed use, I had to get my partner (which was usually my dinner date) to assist with holding the lighting The biggest test came when I decided to bring it to my friend Esther’s wedding dinner where their wedding planner didn’t allow any flash photography. This is where the telephoto zoom came in super handy and although I thought I would struggle with the lens aperture being only F3.5 I was pretty happy with my shots Shot from below the stage against a projected backdrop   Overall I really enjoyed using the camera although its large size meant that I was carrying a camera bag with me everywhere (as protection is paramount). It’s a most capable enthusiast level DSLR with auto and scenes modes that are pretty intuitive, good enough for when I need to take a quick shot without messing around with the settings. The touch shutter was incredibly useful especially when shooting food or macro photos while the camera’s low light capabilities were also another plus point even though it doesn’t have super high ISO (I hate using high ISO anyway due to the unavoidable noise it generates no matter how good the sensor is).   The Canon EOS 80D is priced at: EOS 80D (Body) – RM 4,899.00 EOS 80D Kit II (with a EF-S18-135 IS USM lens) – RM 6,699.00 More info at http://www.canon.com.my/personal/products/interchangeable-lens-camera/dslr-eos/eos-80d-body   Häagen-Dazs Festive Season Flavours 2016 View this post on Instagram Thanks for the special delivery @HaagenDazsMY 😀😀😀 #haagendazs #icecream A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Dec 8, 2016 at 6:06am PST   The nice folks over at Haagen Dazs sent over their new seasonal flavours which includes: Honey Walnut & Cream (Limited Edition) – RM 32.15 Häagen-Dazs Honey Walnut & Cream brings together real honey from Spanish Honeybees with crunchy walnut pieces, the ultimate sweet indulgence.   Dark Chocolate & Almonds (NEW!) – RM 32.15 This one is made for chocolate lovers with a deliciously intense ice cream made with 70% cocoa dark chocolate, combined with pieces of fudge and crunchy caramelised almond pieces.   Macadamia Nut – RM 32.15 Creamy Macadamia Nut ice cream made with Macadamia nuts selected from temperate Hawaiian and South African groves, roasted to perfection and artfully blended into a creamy and nutty treat.   More info at https://haagendazs.com.my/ or https://www.facebook.com/haagendazsmalaysia/   Mariah’s World Launch Party in Kuala Lumpur Yvette King of E! Channel at the launch party at Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur   E! channel recently threw a premier for their new docu-series Mariah’s World which debuts on Tuesday, 6 December at 10pm (express from the U.S. on Astro Ch712), with an exclusive party in her name for 150 of her biggest Malaysian fan aka “Lambs”. The premiere was held at Pool Bar & Grill @ 8 at Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur on 30 November 2016, and featured performances by Kirana Kay, the rising star of Malaysia’s jazz scene, a Mariah inspired lip-synch and ‘Who Knows Mariah Best’ games with prizes by the series’ Official Fashion Partner and sponsor Zalora. “Mariah is an inspiration to everyone of us here as she embodies elegance, beauty and strength. When we found out that she has agreed to shoot Mariah’s World, we just knew that we have to do something big to show her that Malaysian Lambs are her biggest fans ever! Having the opportunity to collaborate with E! Malaysia has definitely added an edge to the premiere and we are fortunate to be able to work with such a talented team of people. At the end of the day, we all came together for Mariah and it was all worth it,” said Zuan Arifin who leads the Mariah’s Fan Club here in Malaysia. “We are delighted to work with Zuan and Mariah’s Malaysian Lambs to promote E!’s Mariah’s World – they are some of Mariah’s biggest fans in the region, and quite possibly, the world,” said Scott Mackenzie, VP, Channels, Asia for E!’s parent company NBCUniversal International Networks. “Watching the special preview of the series and celebrating all things Mariah was an exciting fan experience for the 150 Lambs, one that you can only expect from a truly global pop culture powerhouse like E!” Here’s a little preview of Mariah’s World.   Mariah’s World premieres 6th December 2016, 10pm on E! (Astro Ch712) And this is my favourite Christmas song by Mariah!   . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/12/23/mercedes-benz-malaysia-introduces-the-eqe/

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Introduces the EQE

Following the successful launch of the EQS, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia recently introduced the new EQE, which is based on an electric architecture created particularly for electric vehicles. The business saloon EQE 350+, which is based on the EVA 2 electric architecture for large cars, offers all of the core functionality of the EQS in a somewhat more compact form factor.  “2022 is an extremely important year in our electric initiative: with the introduction of the EQA, EQB, EQC, EQS and now EQE, we have the most comprehensive electric-vehicle portfolio here in Malaysia. The Mercedes-EQ brand is pursuing a goal that is ambitious as it is clear: that we’ll build the most sustainable and most technically advanced cars in the world. By bringing responsible innovation to the road, we’re driving change. The EQE is the latest example of this – and it will make a powerful contribution towards the future of mobility.” Sagree Sardien, CEO & President of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia “After the EQS, the EQE is already the second model on our new platform for luxury segment. The EQE is the next all-purpose electric luxury sedan with the typical One-Bow-Signature Design creating fast lines and silhouette and through that a very aerodynamic and futuristic look. All of this makes the car more flamboyant and entertaining, more extraordinary and defines the next level of luxury for the Mercedes-EQ brand. With its dynamic driving experience and comprehensive range of Connected Services, the EQE is a perfect fit for the desires of a modern generation of customers. We reconcile innovation and emotionality with sustainability and we are actively contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions.” Michael Jopp, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia The EQE comes with a slightly shorter wheelbase than the EQS, as well as shorter overhangs and more recessed flanks. Sensual Purity can be observed in the generously modelled surfaces, minimised joints, and seamless transitions, providing a seamless design. Overhangs and the front end are kept short, while a sharp rear spoiler adds a dynamic accent. The 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, flush with the body’s outer edge, and muscular shoulder section give the EQE an athletic appearance. The EQE’s lithium-ion battery consists of ten modules, and has a usable energy content of 90.56 kWh, providing the vehicle with a range of up to 669 km according to WLTP. The innovative battery management software, developed in-house, allows updates over the air (OTA) thus allowing the energy management of the EQE remain up-to-date throughout the battery’s life cycle. A major step has been achieved in terms of the sustainability of the cell chemistry by reducing the cobalt content to less than ten per cent. The continuous optimisation of recyclability is part of Mercedes-Benz’s holistic battery strategy. All EQE models have an electric drivetrain (eATS) on the rear axle paired with electric motors that are permanently excited synchronous motors (PSM), which provide high power density, high efficiency and high power constancy. At the top, the vent band is quite slim and extends over the full width. The avant-garde design of the cockpit is created by these extraordinary dimensions. Turbine-shaped outer nozzles are also present. They play on the notion of hyperanalogue by contrasting high-tech precise mechanics with a digital, glass display world. The EQE is equipped with the latest MBUX generation, which was just recently introduced in the EQS. The control and display uses adaptive software to adapt to the user and provide personalised recommendations for a variety of infotainment, comfort, and vehicle functions. The user does not need to use voice commands or scroll through submenus with the zero-layer design. On the top level in the field of view, the most crucial applications are presented in a situational and contextual manner. The drive philosophy of the EQE is characterised by consistently high performance and numerous accelerations without a loss of power. In this process, the high-voltage battery is charged by converting the mechanical rotating motion into electrical energy while in overrun or braking mode. This incorporates a sophisticated thermal concept and numerous variations of energy recovery through recuperation. Through shift paddles located behind the steering wheel, the driver can manually select the gliding function as well as the deceleration in three phases (D+, D, and D-). DAuto is also available. Additionally, ECO Assist provides situation-optimized recuperation, which determines the most effective driving technique based on how powerful or weak the deceleration is. Based on a variety of factors, Navigation with Electric Intelligence plots the quickest and most convenient route and dynamically reacts, for instance, to traffic jams or a change in driving style. This includes an indication in the MBUX infotainment system of whether the available battery capacity is adequate to return to the starting place without charging. The EQE concept, being a saloon with a boot lid, is well-equipped to provide a high level of NVH comfort (Noise, Vibration, Harshness). The magnets inside the rotors of electric drivetrains (eATS) are organised in a “sheet metal cut” arrangement that is NVH-optimized. The eATS also feature an all-around foam mat that acts as an NVH cover. The inverter cover is made of a sandwich design, while elastomeric bearings double-decouple the eATS from the body. Continuous sound insulation is provided from the crossmember beneath the windscreen to the boot floor by highly effective spring/mass components. Throughout the body-in-white production process, acoustic foams are put into numerous carriers. The EQE has two soundscapes available with the Burmester® surround sound system: Roaring Pulse and Silver Waves Vivid Flux. The sound of Silver Waves is pure and sensual. Vivid Flux is crystalline, synthetic, yet warm—it is marketed at EV aficionados. They can be selected or disabled as sound experiences on the central display. Like all other Mercedes-Benz models, the EQE has a rigid passenger cell, special deformation zones and modern restraint systems with PRE-SAFE®. Available as standard, the EQE is equipped with the Driving Assistance Plus package that includes but is not limited to Active Distance DISTRONIC, Active Stop-and Go Assist, Active Steering Assist with Hands-off warning and Active Lane Keeping Assist. Photo credits: Mercedes Benz Malaysia . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/05/24/honor-10-launched-in-malaysia/

Honor 10 Launched in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets]    If you asked me some years back if I’d ever use a China brand phone, my answer would have probably been a “no”. However after I got my hands on a Huawei P7 and later the Honor 7 (Honor is the sub brand of Huawei in case you didn’t know) some years back (which you can read here –https://timchew.net/2016/01/06/honor-7-smartphone-latest-flagship-by-honor/ and here – https://timchew.net/2016/01/22/honor-7-photoshoot-with-choo-mei-sze/) I must say that my impression of both brands have changed tremendously! As such, I was pretty stoked to attend the honor 10 launch in Malaysia on 22 May 2018 at the Sheraton Petaling Jaya. At the launch, honor Malaysia unveiled its newest flagship device – the honor 10, a handset equipped with Semantic Image Segmentation technology – an industry first. Honor’s first notched display phone comes with exquisite aurora glass meets metal design, available in a stunning combination of colours, and delivers high-end performance, all at an extremely competitive price point of RM1,699. “We are so excited to be able to launch our latest flagship, the honor 10 in Malaysia, just a week after the global launch. Malaysia, being one of the first international market that the company set foot in, has always been supportive of us, and we remain as committed to our fans from day one. The 15 layers of ever-changing colour craftsmanship which required high levels of precision and delicacy, resulting in the stunning aurora of the honor 10 represents our ever-evolving efforts in matching the local fans’ taste and lifestyle without compromise on aesthetic design, engineering and performance,” said Zhao Zhiwei, Head of honor Malaysia. Zhao further added, “Our focus of providing a world of possibilities and excitement to our fans is further represented by the honor 10’s glass body design. Representing the brand’s best design capability in respect of aesthetic technology, the handset reflects light in such a way that it is up to the user’s interpretation of the device’s shade of colour. We at honor Malaysia want to inspire and motivate our fans to see and enjoy the world with their own interpretations and without limits.”         The honor 10 comes with a 5.84” bezel-less FullView 2.0 Display, and packs a powerful A.I. performance with: ·       The latest HiSilicon Kirin 970 chipset which carries an independently built-in NPU processor for added AI functional blocks ·       A 19:9 bezel-less and True Colour display with a colour gamut as wide as NTSC 96%, creativity ·       The new EMUI 8.1, the first deep customization system based on the Android 8.1 which brings artificial intelligence-based capabilities to make software experience smarter and quicker due to machine learning algorithms       The features of the honor 10 were specifically engineered and designed for photography enthusiasts (as is the trend these days) with its 24MP + 16MP dual-lens AI assisted cameras. ·       Utilising the industry-first Semantic Image Segmentation technology, honor 10’s rear camera allows users to take apart different layers from an image and is able to identify multiple objects in one single image, making every photo taken a professional-looking one with just one click ·       The advanced and precise face recognition of the honor 10 ensures an accurate bokeh, which gives precision and detail to everyone’s faces in a group photo taken by the 24MP front camera, making group-fies (group selfies) instead of “a selfie with a group in a blurry background” entirely possible       Inspired by the Murano glassmakers’ of ancient Rome, the designers of honor 10 combined aesthetics with engineering, resulting in a very aesthetically pleasing phone where the glass curves on all sides blend seamlessly with the metal frame surrounding the device’s edges. The eye-catching aurora glass design was inspired by the contemporary use of aerial net sculptures, made of layers upon layers to create 180° infinite tangent plane in which every single degree is coloured, for the ever-changing effect of the aurora sheen. The honor 10 employs an Ultrasonic fingerprint sensor under the glass on the front of the phone which provides a stable unlocking experience even if the user’s hands are wet or greasy, while also reducing the occurrence of accidental unlocking. Honor has also enabled a virtual home button, enabling consumers to easily find the detection area whilst also removing the need for a physical panel for a more elegant design. The face unlock feature is also available on the honor 10. Powering this latest flagship is a 3,400 mAh battery, which is more than sufficient for its users to be on the go for more than one (1) full day. Thanks to the honor Super Charge feature that supports this handset, users are able to charge the phone to 50% battery within just 25 minutes of charging. The launch also saw honor Malaysia collaborating with Mah Sing Group, which had an art and technology light feature exhibition recently, to showcase the culmination of honor’s efforts in converging art, vibrancy and modernity in an aesthetic design that mesmerizes. “Mobile phones are becoming more and more of an extension of our lives, and the honor 10 was designed to give our fans a smartphone that exudes a glamorous premium feel whilst at the same time expressing the fierce individuality of each user. Launching this powerful and aesthetically vibrant handset that won’t break the bank is our way of showing our core belief of creating premium products that blur the line between affordable smartphones and premium devices, and making them as accessible to our consumers as possible,” commented Zhao.      The honor 10 will be available in the Malaysia market from today, 24 May 2018 (while pre-orders have already commenced) in Phantom Blue, Glacier Grey and Midnight Black. From 24 to 31 May 2018, Malaysians can enjoy a special reduced price for the honor 10, across both its online and retail stores nationwide. Online purchases for the phone will receive a RM100 instant voucher, while purchases done at the retail stores enjoy instant cashback of the same value, marking down the price of the phone to RM1,599 during this promotional period. You can purchase the Honor 10 online at: 1.     hihonor: https://www.hihonor.com/my 2.     Shopee: https://shopee.com.my/honormy.officialstore?utm_source=PRR&utm_medium=online   For more information, head over to http://hihonor.com/my or http://www.brightstarcorp.com.my/brands/honor/honordealers/ . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/02/06/romantic-dining-spots-cedar-on-15/

Romantic Dining Spots – Cedar on 15

[Valentine’s Day Special] I actually visited Cedar on 15 back in December 2013 however I decided to only publish the post now as I think the restaurant is a very suitable located for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. So let’s get started… Cedar on 15 is located in the Impiana KLCC Hotel which is along Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur and diagonally opposite the KL Convention Centre. Don’t miss the entrance to the hotel or you’ll need to make a round as it’s on a one way street Dim lighting and flush seats combine to give the main dining area a very romantic ambiance As you can see, Cedar on 15 is not designed to be a massive restaurant which is great as this generally keeps noise levels low and helps to maintain its exclusivity Beside the main dining area is an al-fresco bar and lounge area, There is also a private dining room which seats around a dozen people. You get a great view of the Twin Towers from the bar area. The bar is pretty well stocked with wines, liquors, and beers! After snapping some pics at the bar area, we choose a nice table with a beautiful Christmas tree in the background. There was a three-piece band on hand to serenade us and they were even nice enough to entertain our song requests! Some nice warm bread to start off the meal The amuse bouche Organic Pumpkin Chowder – RM25.00 – with pumpkin seed oil and crouton. I liked how the chowder was served! I’m quite a fan of pumpkin soup however at most restaurants they end up tasting too rich and bland. Not so at Cedar on 15 at the pumpkin chowder was not too rich, and was very flavourful while the croutons added a little texture to the dish. As I selected the food myself I was patting myself on the back for choosing this one as it was a great start to the meal. Poached Lobster Salad – RM 98.00 – Served on crunchy celery raspberry salad and passion fruit mayonnaise. I must say that Cedar on 15 puts some effort into presentation! The flavours of the fresh and juicy lobster combined well with the other ingredients while the sauce was subtle and not overpowering and lightly drizzled over the salad (my partner in crime is very into healthy eating and she really hates her salads drenched in dressing). A variety of flavours and textures working in harmony on my palate made this one another winning dish! Pumpkin Seed Crusted Black Cod – RM72.00 – Pan-fried, served with mushroom tomato chutney and fennel mousse. This is one of the restaurant’s signature items and it was absolutely delicious! The fish was very fresh and I couldn’t get enough of the pumpkin seed crusted skin! The sauce was great too and was really very impressed with the food by this point. Black Angus Tasmanian Tenderloin (220gram) – RM80.00 – cooked medium rare which resulted in a juicy and tender steak! Oh how I love my steaks and this one was so flavourful it didn’t even need to go with the sauce. Green pepper corn with Cognac sauce (left) and a side (RM12.00) which was the Wild mushrooms with herb butter (right). I love sauces cooked with alcohol and this one had a little zing from the pepper and some sweetness from the cognac! However as the steak was already so flavourful this was a little redundant but nevertheless it was good. The mushrooms were nice and juicy with its earthy flavours balanced out by the herb butter (which surprisingly didn’t make it too oily). The chef specially assembled a dessert platter consisting of a Chocolate Seduction, Pavlova, and Chocolate Moelleux (left to right) Chocolate Seduction (one of their signature dishes) RM35.00 – Ensemble of dark mousse, white ganache and famous sacher tart. This is a chocolate lover’s dream! Rich dark chocolate mousse which is not too sweet and created a little party in your mouth. My favourite of the three (3) desserts! Pavlova – RM20.00 – Fluffy light meringue sponge filled with fresh strawberries and pistachio. Thumbs up to the chef as this was not the usually super sweet meringue. Break the meringue into pieces and enjoy it with the fresh strawberries and pistachio, and savour the combination of different flavours and textures. Chocolate Moelleux – RM25.00 – Warm pudding with melted chocolate and vanilla ice-cream. Break it open and the lava comes pouring out! This was a nice hearty dessert and it went well with the vanilla ice cream. . Cedar on 15 has two awards to its name – Flavors of Australia 2013 Restaurant Challenge Champion (Category A) by the Australia Trade Commission (Austrade), and the Best Restaurant 2013 by Malaysia Tatler. . Honestly I really liked Cedar on 15 and not just for its delicious Western food. It’s not too crowded and not ridiculously priced even though its located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, while the setting and ambiance complemented by the live band made it a really ideal place to bring your date for a nice romantic semi-fine dining dinner. After dinner you can always stay on for drinks at the bar and lounge section while admiring the view of KLCC. Romantic Ambiance: 9/10 . Cedar on 15 is located at: 15th Floor, Impiana Hotel KLCC, 13, Jalan Pinang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. . Tel: 603–2147 1111 extensions 3711 or 3320 Email: cedaron15@impiana.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CEDARon15 . Operational Hours Buffet Breakfast : 6.30 am – 10.30 am Lunch : 12.00 noon -2.30 pm (ONLY on Weekdays) Snack : 3.00 pm – 6.00 pm Happy Hour : 5.00 pm – 10.00 pm Dinner : 6.00 pm – 10.30 pm Bar Snack : 11.00 pm – 1.00 am . For more info on Impiana KLCC Hotel Email: info.impianaklcc@impiana.com Toll-free: 1800 883 100 Website: http://www.impiana.com.my Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/impianaklcchotel . Valentine’s Day Special at Cedar on 15 Executive Chef Helmut Lamberger has designed a special Valentine’s menu for couples this Valentine’s Day starting off with the Amuse Bouche by the chef himself to offer diners a glimpse into the chef’s approach to the art of cuisine. There will be a chocolate Cigar for the gentlemen while ladies will get a red rose upon arrival to set the mood for the night. Couples will get to enjoy a special ‘Strawberry Frozen in Ice Cubes and ‘Love Potion#9’ cocktail to enjoy while waiting for dinner to be served. The menu will include: Carpaccio of Norwegian Salmon with low Temperature cooked Egg, Shiso Cress and Baby lettuce Creamy Soup of Cauliflower with Scallop Spinach Tian Sherbet of Beetroot and Apple served in a gold dusted Ice Bowl Aurora Lamb Loin in Parsley Crust with Truffle Mashed Potato and Kataifi Vegetable Strawberry Parfait with Rose flavored Macaroons and House cultured Passion fruit Yoghurt . This special offering is only from 7.00 pm to 10.30pm on 14 and 15 February 2014, and is priced at RM 488++ per couple. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2023/06/03/international-automotive-news-june-2023/

International Automotive News – June 2023

Citroen Introduces the C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 Copyright Adrien Cortesi @ ContinentalProductions Citroën debuted its an all-new engine for C5 Aircross: the Hybrid 136 in Poissy, France on 30 May 2023. Based on the compact and lightweight Hybrid 48V technology, the new powertrain comprises a 48V battery that recharges during some driving phases, and a 136 hp PureTech petrol engine designed specifically to adapt to this new hybrid system, coupled to a new ë-DCS6 gearbox with a 21 kW electric motor. With this C5 Aircross Hybrid version, Citroën offers an electric mobility solution that combines simplicity, energy efficiency and a unique comfort experience at a price that is comparable to diesel version one, but with lower CO2 emissions. The combined WLTP cycle shows that the C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 variant emits only 129g of CO2/km, which is 15% less CO2 than the comparable non-electric petrol version. Its pricing roughly corresponds to a diesel variant with an equivalent engine, although the latter emits about 12% less CO2. Additionally, it offers all the advantages of electric mobility, including better driving enjoyment and the ability to travel in areas with low-emissions requirements. The Hybrid 136 completes the electrified lineup for the C5 Aircross, which also includes the plug-in Hybrid 180 and plug-in Hybrid 225, which together account for 40% of all C5 Aircross sales. More broadly, it advances and speeds up Citroen’s electrification strategy, which consists of 10 models ranging from hybrids to 100% electric and plug-in hybrids, from the Ami to the C5 X, from passenger cars to commercial vehicles, each of which aims to provide a solution that is specific to the needs of the customer while keeping costs in check. Copyright Adrien Cortesi @ ContinentalProductions Thanks to this 48V Hybrid technology, mixed or 100% electric driving times with no emissions are optimised, providing owners with greater driving comfort, reduced consumption, and lower CO2 emissions. This lightweight and compact hybrid technology is based on: A new-generation 1.2 PureTech petrol engine, specially developed for hybridisation (40% of the parts are new) with 3 cylinders and 1199 cm3, delivering 136 hp (100 kW) at 5500 rpm and a torque of 230 Nm at 1750 rpm. The choice of a variable geometry turbocharger and timing chain contributes to its performance and robustness. Complying with the Euro 6.4 standard and operating in accordance with the Miller cycle, the engine has improved thermal efficiency. A permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor, capable of developing a peak power of 21 kW (28 hp) and a torque of 55 Nm. It allows the C5 Aircross to be driven 100% electric for low torque requirements, at low speeds, when manoeuvring or slowing down and assists the petrol engine when starting. During deceleration, it acts as a generator to recharge the battery, which reduces the wear and tear of the brakes at the same time. A belt starter, powered by 48V. It enables to start the petrol engine quickly and responsively. A new electrified dual-clutch gearbox, the ë-DCS6, a 6-speed dual-clutch system with no torque break, specifically designed for hybrid systems. The gear changes are shorter and the drive is more comfortable. The electric motor, the inverter and the ECU are all integrated, optimising space under the engine bonnet. A 48V Lithium-Ion battery with an available capacity of 432 Wh is installed under the left front seat, so there is no impact on the boot or interior space. In addition, thanks to a voltage converter, part of the electricity produced by the 48V electric motor is transformed into 12V in order to supply the car’s equipment. This way, two separate electrical networks can exist side-by-side. Copyright Adrien Cortesi Driving the C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 in electric mode is possible in urban areas, and during more conservative driving. With no pollutants and no vibration, this hybrid version can complete up to 50% of city trips in electric-only mode. On-board comfort is improved throughout routine local or long-distance trips because of the advantages of entirely electric driving. The 48V HYBRID technology optimises the performance and fuel consumption of the C5 Aircross, with average fuel saving of 1 litre/100km (i.e. 15%) compared with the PureTech 130 EAT8 petrol engine making the engine highly efficient in urban driving conditions which can provide drivers with almost 30% average fuel saving. The engine also has a positive impact on CO2 emissions: which can be reduced by up to 15% (20g) compared with the PureTech 130 S&S EAT8 petrol engine. With 129g of CO2/km (according to the combined WLTP cycle and version), the C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 ë-DCS6 offers the freedom to drive without constraints in many areas with traffic restrictions. The hybrid drive of this new C5 Aircross version uses its two engines (electric and petrol), which operate together or separately, automatically, smoothly and without driver intervention. When aggresive acceleration is required, the electric motor delivers an additional 9 kW (approximately. 12 hp). As the battery recharges automatically when the car decelerates, this new engine makes daily driving less of a hassle for customers who want to experience electric drives without the need to recharge. Copyright Adrien Cortesi @ ContinentalProductions Copyright Adrien Cortesi @ ContinentalProductions C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 ë-DCS6 keeps all the on-board comfort features of C5 Aircross (Citroën Advanced Comfort® suspension and seats, space and modularity), the same customisations and the same trim levels (Feel, Feel Pack, Shine and Shine Pack). The digital instrument panel has been upgraded with a specific display that provides drivers with all the information they need about hybrid driving directly in front of their eyes without looking away: Tachometer in blue shows 100% electric driving, The energy flow of the hybrid engine, Battery charge level, Driving mode via a power meter (Charge, Eco, Power), Percentage of distance travelled in electric mode, at any time and on average Copyright Adrien Cortesi @ ContinentalProductions With this offering, Citroën provides a new electrified alternative that includes the comfort of purely electric driving, saves fuel and reduces CO2 emissions, while keeping costs under control. . Photo credits: Stellantis N.V. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/04/18/superdry-sport-womens-ready-to-wear-ss17-superdry-studio/

Superdry Sport – Women’s Ready to Wear SS17 & Superdry Studio

[Fashion] Superdry Sport SS17 – Womens   With products for dedicated gym buffs, casual runners and occasional athletes, Superdry’s Sport Collection has grown from strength-to-strength. Already proven popular with Global influencers, Superdry’s flattering and breathable hi-tech fabrics feature the hottest colour trends and assure both a stylish look and professional performance. Bursts of fluro coral, neon python and palm prints compliment the neutral base colours, all presented in the finest soft-touch, brushed fabrics. From sports leggings and gym shorts to vest tops and sports bras, our sportswear is designed with comfort in mind. With the women’s range now into its fifth season, Superdry Sport is fast establishing itself as the go-to capsule for fashionable fitness lovers.   Superdry Studio SS17   New for SS17, the Superdry Studio yoga capsule collection is designed for ultimate comfort and flexibility in the studio. The technical fabrics of the sports bras and yoga leggings are designed for moisture management and breathability, allowing an asana ready performance. Loose fit yoga tops and cardigans feature soft sweeps of calm colours in wrap and drape detailing for Pranayama perfection. Superdry Studio’s super-relaxed style allows you to center your mind and body around the practice ahead.     For more info, head over to http://www.superdry.com Images courtesy of FJ Benjamin Malaysia. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2011/04/13/review-ford-fiesta/

Test Drive – Ford Fiesta

[Test Drive] During my time with TOPGEAR, FHM and Malaysian EVO I certainly learnt a fair bit about cars so much to my delight I managed to get my paws on the 1.6l Sport Ti-VCT Ford Fiesta for a weekend’s test drive. Now I’ve been eye-ing this car for some time now since the launch at Opera on 10 October 2010. Ford is back with a hip new model to capture the younger market! The nice folks at Sime Darby Auto Connexion lent me the top of the range Fiesta the 1.6l Sport Ti-VCT for a weekend! The Fiesta has a youthful, bold and sporty design which they call “energy in motion” Check out the chrome air intakes, swept back headlights and spotlights in the front! The Fiesta has an angled shoulder line which makes it look aggressive from any angle The rear spoiler gives us a sporty look while shading the rear passengers from the sun. Practical and esthetically pleasing! The Fiesta's rear end doesn't end up pointing to high skywards but amazingly gives it a low and wide look. This is one pretty cool hot hatch! This Fiesta model even comes with signal lamps on the wing mirrors Powerplant & Transmission This Fiesta is powered by a 1.6l Duratec Ti-VCT which has a four (4) cylinder DOHC 16V engine which pumps out 122 (90 KW) ps at 6300 rpm while max torque is 148nm at 4300 rpm. Mate this to the 6-Speed Powershift® Automatic Transmission with dual-clutch technology and you get fuel efficiency and loads of torque when you want a more spirited drive! Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it? The sealed transmission requires no maintenance according to Ford so you don’t need to go change your gear oil every 20,000km or face the consequences if you forget. For you women drivers, there’s even the HLA or Hill Launch Assist system which holds the car steady in D for a couple of seconds when you’re on a slope. No more panicking when having to stop on Jalan Maarof during a traffic jam. Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing), gives up to 4.5% fuel efficiency, 7% peak power and 5% low speed torque. Working like a ratchet, the one-way valves allow precise timing of camshaft events, continually optimizing timing to provide maximum output or fuel economy, based on driver input. How does the above benefit the average consumer? With fuel prices increasing every year fuel efficiency plays an important role when choosing a car to buy. With the Fiesta’s combination of the 6-speed dual clutch transmission (PowerShift®), twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT), the estimated fuel consumption is 5.9L to a 100 kilometers. So drive conservatively and the 42 liter fuel tank should enable a travel distance of 700 km! ### Suspension & Handling The Fiesta is equipped with a Macpherson strut with anti-roll bar in the front and twist beam in the rear. This model is also equipped with an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control System (TCS) and I must say that this provided a lot of grip especially in tight turns (those of you who know where I stay should know what I mean by tight turns!). The suspension is relatively stiff which provides a great ride but not at a total expense of comfort. Body roll is barely noticeable and I suspect that is the result of a well tuned suspension. ### Safety The brakes are equipped with ABS, EBD and EBA (Emergency Brake Assist), driver and front passenger airbags and side door impact beams to protect the passengers. ### Now to the interior. The front row is pretty spacious and although there is no telescopic steering I managed to find a comfortable position The rear is adequate although it won't be too comfortable for anyone sitting directly behind me as I usually put my seat pretty far back A modern and stylish dashboard and centre console. You can see that lots of thought was given to the Fiesta's styling. The tweeter (not twitter ya!) is embedded in the front door! With the audio controls embedded into the steering wheel, your hands don't need to leave it to adjust the music. An important feature especially when you're playing mp3s as the volume levels change from track to track! The dashboard has a multi-function display and a gear position display This model comes with the voice control with a female voice giving you the options. Used properly it can control your radio and phone with just a tap of the button on the left stalk. While the voice control feature will impress your passengers, just remember to speak very clearly or you might not get the desired result. Now the Fiesta’s sound system comes with USB, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity so you can pair your Bluetooth enabled phones with it and make a call using the keypad on the centre console. When the call is connected the mic will pick up what you’re saying while you can hear the other person on the car’s speaker system. Definitely a nifty tool if you’re the type who likes to chat on the phone when driving (I don’t recommend it as it takes away a certain portion of your attention from the road but some calls can’t be avoided – bosses, girlfriend, wife, etc. etc.). The trunk capacity is 281 litres but that can be increased by folding down the 60/40 rear seats if you have large items to carry. Noise, harshness and vibration (NHV) is minimal at speeds below 130km/h (you shouldn’t be driving over 110km/h anyway). This car is certainly a hot hatch and comes loaded with a whole bunch of cool and practical features. It can be yours with insurance for RM82,888.00 (OTR)! Certainly not a bad deal. More info on Ford at http://www.ford.net.my Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/01/08/volkswagen-das-event/

Volkswagen Das Event

[Automotive]   Headed over to the Regional Aviation Centre at the Subang Airport on 9 December 2014 for Volkswagen’s Das Event. The event served as a platform for the company to share its rich brand heritage, innovation and technological advancement, give guests a peek at their latest stable of vehicles, as well as to launch their child safety campaign. Volkswagen showcased its fleet of wide-ranging vehicles in Malaysia to serve various customer demands. The company offers 15 models in Malaysia, out of which four (4) models are locally assembled.  We got to see the latest executive sedan, the Passat B8 which premiered for the first time in Asia. The new Passat had its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show this year, new Passat is revitalized with new design, a new engine and new technologies – offering a new array of driver assistance, infotainment and comfort systems, cutting-edge innovation, connectivity, efficiency and safety. Another interesting debut was the Golf GTE – the first plug-in hybrid that embeds the Golf GTI’s DNA. The Golf GTE is a fusion of sportiness and sustainability, and possesses the performance inherited from the Golf GTI. With fuel consumption of only 1.5L per 100 km and a range of 939 km in hybrid mode, the Golf GTE delivers a maximum speed of 222 km/h and 0-100 km/h acceleration at 7.6 seconds, and has the zero emission option on E-mode.. The car does not require any special infrastructure for charging and can be fully charged under 4 hours at any conventional socket. The e-Up! – Volkswagen’s most advanced electric car with zero emissions, zero fuel consumption and zero noise, provides a strong torque performance of 210Nm and offers a continued cruise of up to 157km. The e-Up! is futuristically designed, environmentally friendly, and offers a glimpse of the future of urban vehicles. Speaking at the event Mr Weiming Soh, President of Commercial Operations, Greater China / ASEAN said, “Volkswagen’s promise of ‘Always By Your Side’ also means a responsibility for tomorrow’s mobility. Our products are designed and built with an aim to meet tomorrow’s demands. They are more fuel-efficient, more powerful, provide greater driving pleasure, and are more comfortable to drive, that too with lesser emissions. Be it our award-winning TSI engines or our visionary electric vehicles, sustainable mobility is of prime importance to us.”   The TSI turbo charged direct injection petrol engine is the product of Volkswagen’s innovative engine technology and also a remarkable example of engine downsizing. The core competitiveness of the TSI engine is its exceptional torque, and it is a more efficient engine with less fuel consumption and higher performance. This allows Volkswagen owners to experience faster, smoother and more stable driving experience, while ensuring fuel economy and eco-friendliness. It improves fuel efficiency, and reduces emissions, and represents Volkswagen’s commitment to social responsibility and a cleaner, greener future. Volkswagen will gradually change the engine labelling on vehicles sold in the Asian market into the all-new form of torque class plus engine technology. It is a new badging that features Torque to illustrate the performance of Volkswagen models. In Malaysia, the CC and Passat will be first two models to adopt engine labelling. “In addition to horsepower, torque is a crucial factor that tells the car’s performance – high torque offers better acceleration, better performance, better drivability, more driving fun as well as a more convenient driving experience,” said Mr Armin Keller, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia.   In line with its commitment to enhance ownership experience, Volkswagen introduces several initiatives for its Malaysian customers. Previously, the company introduced the Volkswagen Experts programme, Mobility Guarantee programme, and daily order and delivery of spare parts. Resuming its efforts in service transformation, Volkswagen is also committed to implement five (5) more initiatives to provide a comprehensive coverage from sales to after sales: Investment in local talent– Knowledge transfer and training of 100 newly recruited local technicians. Establishing one state-of-the-art Technical Competence Centre facility in 2014 and two Technical Competence Centre in 2015 – This facility will provide the latest in all areas of training to further equip the technical staff with strong skill sets and expertise. Volkswagen Brand Store – Introducing the first “brand store” in the Malaysian automotive market that provides customers with a 360 degree unique experience on the brand and the products. It will also serve as a dealer training centre. Volkswagen Parts Centre – Opening of a parts centre in Malaysia to shorten delivery time and lead time of spare parts. Service Concierge – Responsible for delivering professional and expert concierge services to customers at selected dealerships Increasing investment in training and development of the sales and technical staff at all Volkswagen dealerships In total, Volkswagen plans to invest more than RM20million in the next 3 years on training and recruitment of new staff and also on improving facilities/expanding existing ones. “Malaysia is an important market for our business and as the brand progresses, our continued investment in improving our customer service will remain as a corner-stone of our activities; be it sales or aftersales. We have embarked on a journey to bring this change and these initiatives will help us earn the trust of our Malaysian customers,” said Mr Armin Keller added.   Together with DRB-HICOM, Volkswagen is focused on the next phase of growth in Malaysia. Since 2011, the company has introduced four (4) top selling, locally assembled models (Passat, Polo Sedan, Polo Hatchback, Jetta) in Malaysia. Volkswagen’s CKD operations have played an instrumental role in strengthening the company’s leadership position in Malaysia and contributed to creation of more job opportunities in the country. “Malaysia is known for its stable economic growth with strong progress in key sectors, such as the automotive industry. This country has an excellent business environment, and Volkswagen, as a global player, wants to build on these strengths and continue to be a reliable business partner to Malaysia. Our developing presence and undertakings reaffirm our commitment to the market,” said Mr Armin Keller, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia.     Volkswagen announced that it is joining forces with the Association of Registered Childcare Providers Malaysia (ARCPM) or Persatuan Pengasuh Berdaftar Malaysia (PPBM) to initiate a national campaign on Child Safety by rolling out a ‘child safety’ training module across 280 childcare centres nationwide. This campaign is aimed at raising awareness on the importance of keeping children safe whilst on the road. Through this campaign, the Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Trainers from PPBM’s network will train other operators of childcare centres to educate approximately 28,000 parents on the importance of using proper child car seats to curb injuries and losses. “As a responsible automaker, we believe it is of utmost importance to educate people about the seriousness of this issue and help them take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of their children. We want to address the growing road mishaps involving children, and we are going beyond providing innovative safety features in our fleet of cars and embarking on our first national initiative on Child Safety,” said Mr Armin Keller, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia. “We strongly believe that this training module will inspire, mobilize and strengthen prevention measures and engage childcare centres as agents of change in their respective communities. This training will also empower and facilitate the childcare centre personnel’s role in creating ‘safety consciousness’ and uphold child protection,” added Mr Armin Keller. Volkswagen Malaysia will also donate 200 Volkswagen child safety seats to PPBM to further support the ongoing effort in education and raising awareness on this issue. According to the Road Safety Annual Report 2013 commissioned by International Traffic Safety Data and Analysis Group (IRTAD), Malaysia has one of the most dangerous roads in the world with recorded accidents of 23.8 deaths in a 100,000 population. Children are not spared from this situation and are considered a vulnerable category of passengers when it comes to road accidents. Child seats are an effective and proven way to minimise injuries and deaths among children aged between 1 to 4 years, and all the way up to 8 years. It secures the child and distributes the force of the impact. This protects the child’s neck and spine from injuries, should an accident occur. The social advocacy campaign is set to enlist the support of key opinion leaders and various other partners including experts and influential figures.   Here are the latest prices for Volkswagen vehicles in Malaysia as of 1 January 2015:   Engine Max Output (kW/PS) Max Torque (Nm) Trans- mission Fuel Consumption (l/100km) MSRP West Malaysia MSRP East Malaysia Polo 1.6 MPI 77/105 153 Auto 6 6.3 89,888 92,888 Polo Sedan 1.6 MPI 77/105 153 Auto 6 6.5 91,888 94,888 Jetta 1.4 TSI 118/160 240 DSG 7 6 134,888 137,888 Passat 1.8 TSI 118/160 250 DSG 7 7 173,888 176,888 Polo GTI 3door 1.4 TSI 132/180 250 DSG 7 5.9 154,888 157,888 Polo GTI 5door 1.4 TSI 132/180 250 DSG 7 5.9 157,888 160,888 Beetle Design 1.2 TSI 77/105 175 DSG 7 5.9 135,888 138,888 Beetle Design Luxury 1.2 TSI 77/105 175 DSG 7 5.9 141,888 144,888 Beetle Sport 1.2 TSI 77/105 175 DSG 7 5.9 140,888 143,888 Beetle Sport Luxury 1.2 TSI 77/105 175 DSG 7 5.9 146,888 149,888 Golf 1.4 TSI 103/140 250 DSG 7 5 163,888 166,888 Golf GTI Pure 2.0 TSI 162/220 350 DSG 6 6.4 217,888 220,888 Golf GTI Advanced 2.0 TSI 162/220 350 DSG 6 6.4 225,888 228,888 Golf GTI Adv 19″ 2.0 TSI 162/220 350 DSG 6 6.4 228,888 231,888 Golf GTI Adv Tech Pack 2.0 TSI 162/220 350 DSG 6 6.4 235,888 238,888 Golf GTI Adv TP 19″ 2.0 TSI 162/220 350 DSG 6 6.4 238,888 241,888 Golf R 3door 2.0 TSI 206/280 380 DSG 6 6.9 251,888 254,888 Golf R 5door Tech Pack 2.0 TSI 206/280 380 DSG 6 6.9 291,888 294,888 Scirocco 1.4 TSI 118/160 240 DSG 7 6.3 193,888 196,888 Scirocco R 2.0 TSI 188/255 330 DSG 6 8 289,888 292,888 Cross Touran 1.4 TSI 103/140 220 DSG 7 7.1 169,888 172,888 Tiguan 2WD Pure 1.4 TSI 118/160 240 DSG 6 7.1 178,888 181,888 Tiguan 2WD 1.4 TSI 118/160 240 DSG 6 7.1 188,888 191,888 Tiguan 4MOTION 2.0 TSI 155/210 280 DSG 7 8.6 239,888 242,888 Volkswagen CC 1.8 TSI 118/160 250 DSG 7 7.2 233,888 236,888 Volkswagen CC Sport 1.8 TSI 118/160 250 DSG 7 7.2 252,888 255,888 Sharan 2.0 TSI 147/200 280 DSG 6 8.5 278,888 281,888 Touareg 3.6 FSI 206/280 360 Auto 8 9.9 443,888 446,888 Touareg TDI 3.0 TDI 180/245 550 Auto 8 7.2 503,888 506,888   Prices and specifications are subject to change without prior notice. All prices in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Prices excluding registration and inspection fees, road tax, number plate and insurance for Peninsular Malaysia. East Malaysia TMDC for all models and prices is MYR3,000. The fuel consumption and emission figures have been determined in accordance with the measuring method stipulated ( Euro 5 regulation [EC] 715/2007 which is currently valid). Note in accordance with the version of directive 1999/94/EC which is currently valid: the figures do not refer to a particular vehicle and do not constitute part of the offer but are purely for comparison purposes between the various types of vehicle. In addition to the fuel efficiency of a car, driving behaviour as well as other non-technical factors play a role in determining a car’s fuel consumption   More info at http://www.volkswagen.com.my/ Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/03/18/grand-opening-of-coco-ichibanya-in-malaysia/

Grand Opening of CoCo ICHIBANYA in Malaysia

[Advertorial]   Headed over to 1 Utama on 6 March 2015 with Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers members Stephanie Lim, Kelly Siew, Sharon Loh, Jiayeen and Kate for the official launch of the internationally acclaimed Japanese Curry House – CoCo ICHIBANYA which has finally arrived on our shores! CoCo ICHIBANYA is widely known worldwide as “The Japanese Curry House” with 1,350 restaurants in Japan, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Thailand, Hong Kong, North America, Singapore and now in Malaysia! Honestly, although I’m quite a fan of Japanese cuisine, I have never eaten Japanese curry before because my opinion of it was that it was not as spicy or tasty as other curries and therefore I’d always choose to go with other items on the menu. Therefore with that preconception in mind when I went over to the launch, I was really wondering what would be in store for us and whether we’d get some bland and tasteless food.   Celebrities such as Amber Chia attended the launch too Miss Malaysia Chinese International 1998 and Hong Kong TVB artiste Debbie Goh Project Superstar Malaysia 2007 champion Orange Tan Star Search finalist and TV host Gary Yap with Amber Chia, Orange Ning and Julie Woon     CoCo ICHIBANYA’s tagline is “The tastiness you can choose” where you get to customise your meal based on your preference and appetite – from the spiciness level of the curry, to the various toppings, and even the amount of rice. There are 7 different levels of spiciness for the curry, starting from mild for kids, the signature original flavour, and from level one’s medium hot to level five’s “crazy hot”.  There is a selection of over 30 meat and seafood varieties to choose from including chicken, beef, pork, prawns, clams and more, and some are paired with toppings such as egg, corn and croquettes. If you’d like more toppings just add-on what you want or if you want more/ less rice, simply order the amount that is right for you. On the menu are also some fusion items like spaghetti with curry meat sauce, curry gratin and curry pilaf, while for those who don’t eat spicy food there are also non-spicy options such as seafood spaghetti with cream, creamy corn soup and salads. Have some juices, coffee, teas, soft drinks, floats, milkshakes or even beer to go along with your meal and have a sweet ending with some Matcha or vanilla ice cream!     Here’s a look at some of Coco ICHIBANYA’s signature dishes: Pork Cutlet Omelette Curry – RM26.00     Fried Chicken Curry – RM20.00 We got to try this one with the standard curry and to my surprise the chicken was crispy and tender while the curry was actually very flavourful although not very spicy! We also got to try the Lightly-Crisped Chicken Curry, Fried Shrimp Curry, Salmon Cream Croquette Curry and Fried Fish Curry. Although all of the proteins were friend in batter, they were not oily but rather were nice and crispy on the outside and deliciously tender inside. My favourite? The Salmon Cream Croquette which was was a little creamy and really went well with the curry. Remember how I had the preconception prior to attending this event? Well I was well and truly wrong about Japanese curry and I was actually quite happy that I was wrong. We were also served three (3) types of curry sauce – standard, level 3 and level 5 and I’m proud to say that level 5 was very bearable for me. Then again I do like to eat Indian and Malay curries which can be really really spicy. Level 3 had a nice amount of heat and I think most Malaysians can handle it. Standard was definitely too mild for me. The taste of the curry is unlike the spicy Indian curries or the rich Malay curries, it has its own individual taste to it and it does not overpower the meat or vegetable that it’s served with. The next time I’m there I want to try the pork cutlet curry with 2x extra bacon and level 5 curry sauce!    Grilled Spinach, Bacon and Corn Curry – RM20.00   Seafood Spaghetti – RM22.00   Fried Fish Curry – RM25.00   Some notable items that stood out from the menu were the beef yakiniku curry, grilled garlic prawn curry, and salmon teriyaki curry, while there’s even vegetable curry for those who don’t eat meat. Check out the full menu here – CoCo Ichibanya Menu   The CoCo ICHIBANYA branch in 1 Utama seats a maximum of 65 persons in the 128 square meters restaurant which exudes a casual, friendly and unpretentious ambience. Folks in Penang, look out for the second outlet which will be opening in Queensbay Mall soon.   I was pleasantly surprised by my experience dining at CoCo ICHIBANYA and although I only managed to try a couple of dishes it was enough to impress me and I will definitely return to try out more items on the menu. A good addition to my neighbourhood mall!   CoCo ICHIBANYA is a non-halal establishment which serves pork and beer.   CoCo ICHIBANYA is located at: Lot LG 333A, Lower Ground (New Wing), 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.   Telephone: 03-7732-8937 Operating Hours: Daily from 10.00am to 10.00pm CoCo ICHIBANYA is a restaurant chain owned by Fuji Group, the company of Fuji Japanese Restaurant in Thailand, and for more information, head over to http://www.ichibanya.co.jp/english/index.html   A pic with the pretty Julie Woon! Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/05/29/flagship-porsche-centre-sungai-besi-cayenne-targa-4s-launch/

Flagship Porsche Centre Sungai Besi, Cayenne & Targa 4S Launch

[Automobiles]   Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the authorised importer of Porsche vehicles in Malaysia since 2010, officially launched the new Porsche Centre Sungai Besi (PCSB) on 28th May 2015. Sime Darby Auto Performance is under the Motors Division of the Sime Darby Group. SDAP distributes Porsche vehicles and parts and also provides After Sales services in Malaysia. The new centre is located at 306, Jalan Sungai Besi, and is accessible through Lebuhraya Sungai Besi, North South Expressway, Smart Tunnel and other major highways. The centre aims to provide customers with “bigger facilities, better customer service and world-class Porsche products”. SDAP has invested over RM16 million in the construction of Porsche Centre Sungai Besi, resulting in a new Porsche Centre that reflects the worldwide ethos and quintessentially style of Porsche on a grand scale. The centre has a total build-up of 34,703 sqft, and is a prominent addition to the development of the Porsche brand in Malaysia and will deliver a total customer experience in new and improved ways. Porsche Centre Sungai Besi’s large showroom space is designed to showcase as many as 10 display cars in the showroom. It is equipped with two (2) vehicle delivery bays, a service workshop with a total of nine (9) service bays, and a spacious After Sales reception area that includes two (2) dialogue bays, Porsche Tequipment accessories and a dedicated “shop-in-shop” for Porsche Driver’s Selection merchandise. Porsche owners and fans can purchase exclusive Porsche merchandise from clothing to accessories, toy products to car accessories, and even car care solutions. A highlight of the new facility is the Carrera Lounge, which is a first for a Porsche Centre in Malaysia. This new lounge will provide luxurious comfort and modern conveniences to new and existing customers during their visit to the centre. There is also the Porsche Approved Pre-Owned Car Centre, located on the first floor, offering a wide selection of Porsche Pre-Owned cars. All Pre-Owned cars sold by SDAP are equipped with a minimum two years Porsche Approved Pre-Owned Warranty. The Pre-Owned Car Centre also offers convenient and hassle-free trade-in programs for Porsche owners during their purchase of the next Porsche. The centre will also house training facilities catered to the technical team and sales force. This includes the rigorous preparation process of technicians and sales force staff Porsche Certified, a global certification program by Porsche AG. In conjunction with the opening of Porsche Centre Sungai Besi, SDAP officially launched new 911 Targa 4S and the new Cayenne models in Malaysia. The new Cayenne models offer lower fuel consumption, yet delivers more power and higher torque than its predecessors, while the new 911 has legendary Targa styling and brings to life a modern classic.   Porsche 911 Targa 4S   The new 911 Targa combines the timeless design of the original Targa with the contemporary sportiness of the seventh generation 911. The new 911 Targa makes a return to the original concept, with its characteristic fixed Targa bar, and renews the Targa tradition with an innovative roof concept that operates simply at a press of a button. While the car is stationary, the roof can be opened or closed in about 19 seconds from controls on the centre console. To protect the car from damage, the standard integrated rear ParkAssist monitors the area behind the 911 Targa while the roof is opened and closed. If the sensors detect an obstacle within a range of less than 40 centimetres, a warning sounds. This prevents the rear window that is being tipped back from colliding with a closely parked vehicle or other object standing behind the 911 Targa. The 911 Targa 4S delivers 294 kW (400 hp) from a 3.8-litre engine. It has a top speed of 296 km/h, and can sprint to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds when equipped with PDK and the Sport Chrono package. Fuel consumption ranges from 10.0 to 9.2 l/100 km (237-214 g/km CO2), depending on the transmission fitted. The car’s engine and vehicle performance data, and fuel efficiency equivalent to those of the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet.   Arnt Bayer, Chief Executive Officer of Sime Darby Auto Performance with the new Porsche 911 Targa   “We are thrilled to be moving in-to the central automotive hub in Kuala Lumpur with the new flagship facility. With this new 3S centre, it is a big step forward for us to provide better service to our customers. Sungei Besi is also the first Porsche Centre in Malaysia that complies to the new Porsche corporate architecture. We look forward to providing customers a complete ownership experience,” said Arnt Bayer, Chief Executive Officer of Sime Darby Auto Performance. “At SDAP, we ensure that your vehicles are taken care of by our team of highly skilled employees who are geared towards providing efficient support and customer satisfaction. With this new training facility, I am confident that we will be able to provide just that,” continued Bayer.   New Porsche Cayenne GTS   The new Cayenne models deliver increased efficiency, even more precise handling, a sharper design and even more extensive standard equipment. The five models (5) are available include: Cayenne, Cayenne Diesel, Cayenne S, Cayenne S Diesel, and the Cayenne S E-Hybrid, the first plug-in hybrid in the premium SUV segment. The Cayenne S E-Hybrid offers outstanding fuel consumption and emission values in the premium SUV segment: 3.4 litres per 100 kilometres and 79 g/km CO2. Porsche is the only manufacturer worldwide to offer three plug-in hybrid models – Cayenne S E-Hybrid, Panamera S E-Hybrid and the 918 Spyder. All new Cayenne models have improved performance and torque coupled with lower fuel consumption, with the familiar engines upgraded and optimised. They consume less fuel than their direct predecessors and yet have improved performance figures. The Cayenne S comes with the 3.6 litre V6 bi-turbo engine – an engine that was specially developed for Porsche SUVs and was initially fitted in the Macan. In the Cayenne S, it surpasses the previous V8 engine in all key data. The bi-turbo charging and downsizing via a reduction of the engine capacity and the number of cylinders enable a clear efficiency increase coupled with improved driving performance. Power output has increased by 20 hp to 420 hp and the torque has increased by 50 Nm to 550 Nm, whilst the fuel consumption has fallen by 0.9 litres to less than ten litres per 100 kilometres. The power output of the top model Cayenne Turbo has also increased by 20 hp to 520 hp and the torque by 50 Nm to 750 Nm. This helps it to make the run from o – 100km/h 0.3 seconds quicker than its predecessor, and reaches a top speed of 279 km/h, however fuel consumption has been reduced by 0.3l/100km.  The Cayenne Diesel now has more power and torque, and combining that with a reduction in fuel consumption, produces an increased maximum range. Thanks to a larger turbocharger, the maximum power output of the three-litre V6 engine has increased by 17 hp to a total of 262 hp, whilst the maximum torque has increased by 30 Nm to 580 Nm. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is now 0.3 seconds faster, while the vehicle has a top speed of 221 km/h – with fuel consumption of 6.8 to 6.6 l/100 km. The Cayenne S Diesel comes with a 4.2 litre V8 turbodiesel engine that delivers a power output of 385 hp and an impressive 850 Nm of torque. It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, and has a top speed of 252 km/h. Fuel consumption in accordance with the NEDC is 8.0 l/100 km. More info at http://www.porsche.com/pap/_malaysia_/   We also got the preview the new plug-in hybrid sports car – the Porsche 918 Spyder. The 918 Spyder achieved a record-breaking lap of 6:57 minutes around the Nürburgring Nordschleife. All photos are copyright of Tim Chew (Kuang Chern) and may not be used for any purpose without written consent. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/04/08/gift-ideas-for-her-diorever-bag-by-dior/

Gift Ideas for Her – Diorever Bag by Dior

[Fashion]   Dior’s new Diorever bag was developed over a period of more than nine (9) months and takes more than a day to produce. It requires the utmost finesse and skills to make its structured curves, reversible flap, metallic clasp, and precise leatherworking, which ultimately results in a mini work of architecture with a timeless design befitting its name.        The craftsman uses a pattern for the placement of the badge-shaped clasp. The craftsman shapes the bag’s leather sides on a wooden form made by the modelmaker according to the bag’s materials and dimensions. The craftsman places the badge-shaped metal clasp with laser-engraved micro-canage at the front of the bag, and then secures the leather-covered portion underneath the flap.   Celebrities spotted toting this latest offering from Dior include: American fashion model and television personality Kendall Jenner Buro 24/7 founder Miroslava Duma Elena Perminova, wife of Russian oligarch and billionaire Alexander Lebedev, who is one of the richest persons in Russia.   The DIOR boutique in Kuala Lumpur is located at: G20,21,22,25, 26,27 &28, Indulge Floor, Starhill Gallery, 181, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: 603 21431886 More info at http://www.dior.com   Images courtesy of Dior Malaysia. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/09/10/hong-leong-bank-launches-hlb-duitsmart/

Hong Leong Bank Launches HLB DuitSmart

[Finance News]      Hong Leong Bank launched the HLB DuitSmart Initiative on 6 September 2019 at Menara Hong Leong in Kuala Lumpur with the aim to empower Malaysians with better financial knowledge this Malaysia Day. According to the Insolvency Department of Malaysia, there were more than 300,000 bankruptcy cases in Malaysia as of December 2018. As financial management is not part of the school syllabus, it’s not surprising that the number of cases is so high. A Hong Leong Bank and Hong Leong Islamic Bank (“HLB” or the “Bank”) survey on levels of financial literacy amongst Malaysians nationwide showed more concerted efforts are needed to make financial knowledge simple and straightforward as well as easily accessible to all Malaysians. Results of the survey which was done in collaboration with iMoney showed that: ·         75% rated their financial knowledge as low to average proficiency, ·         63% found financial jargons to be confusing and intimidating, further discouraging them to seek early financial information, ·         Surprisingly, only 19% knew all the right ways to maintain a good credit score, even though most claimed that they understood what the credit score is, ·         68% believed that they do not have enough savings in general, ·         41% said they didn’t know who and where to get help to better manage their money. This prompted the Hong Leong Bank to launch HLB DuitSmart – a financial sustainability initiative with the support of the Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK) and University of Malaya (UM), which is focused on engaging Malaysians with approachable and relatable content and activities on financial knowledge and information. This include tackling some of the key areas of concern shown in the survey to increase greater awareness and understanding on the importance of credit score and to demystify some fundamental financial jargon to make financial information and knowledge more accessible to all Malaysians.    Datuk Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahim Hj. Hashim, Vice Chancellor of UM, Azaddin Ngah Tasir, CEO of AKPK, Domenic Fuda, Group Managing Director and CEO of Hong Leong Bank, Mitul Lakhani, Group CEO of iMoney (left to right)    According to Domenic Fuda, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hong Leong Bank, HLB DuitSmart initiative is part of the Bank’s effort to enable Malaysians to be financially sustainable. “As a Malaysian financial institution with over a century of rooted history in the country, we have a responsibility to play our part to help bridge the gap on awareness and knowledge of financial matters in our communities. Mastering financial concepts is a life skill and HLB DuitSmart also strives to engender long term behavioral change through focusing on three pillars – create Awareness on financial knowledge and Assist with the right tools to enable Malaysians to Act appropriately when it comes to financial matters,“ said Fuda. “Most people think financial knowledge means knowing how to save and manage borrowings, but there’s more than just saving and managing loans/financing. Knowing what your credit score and how to maintain and improve it is also crucial because your ability to apply for future loans/financing is impacted, whether you are an individual or company. The sooner we grasp this concept, the sooner we can cultivate financially responsible habits which will enhance our future financial freedom,” he added. To make it accessible for Malaysians to kickstart their financial education journey with the aid of the right tools, HLB DuitSmart will curate and provide financial knowledge information online as well as enable Malaysians to check their credit score through its partnership with iMoney from September 6 till the end of the month.    Domenic Fuda (R), GMD and CEO of HLB and Azaddin Ngah Tasir (2nd from left), CEO of AKPK challenging their financial knowledge through an interactive game at the HLB DuitSmart roadshow Azaddin Ngah Tasir, CEO of AKPK showing Domenic Fuda, GMD and CEO of HLB AKPK financial knowledge and education materials at the HLB DuitSmart roadshow    HLB DuitSmart will also be activating year-long on-ground engagement roadshows with the public including visiting media houses, universities and corporate organisations nationwide as well as organising Hong Leong Bank in-branch activities for customers and people in the communities. At the roadshows, members of the public can learn and challenge their financial knowledge through interactive digital games, learn more about credit scores, consult AKPK on financial health matters and chat with UM’s AI-powered financial knowledge chatbot called SUNDAY. During the launch, there was a sharing session between Fuda, Datuk Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahim Hj. Hashim, Vice-Chancellor, UM and Azaddin Ngah Tasir, CEO of AKPK on the importance of financial education, the basis of credit score and why early financial education is an effective preventive measure to ensure lifelong good financial health. “Last year, we launched HLB JumpStart, a CSR programme focusing in empowering Social Enterprises doing good for Malaysia to be sustainable in conjunction with Malaysia Day.  This year, we are introducing HLB DuitSmart, a CSR initiative to enable Malaysians to be financially sustainable. We hope that through this initiative we can do our part to enable Malaysians to be more financially informed and ultimately, able to achieve their financial sustainability that will allow them to reduce, and hopefully eliminate, poor financial decisions,” said Fuda.    At the roadshow, we also got to try the coffee by Coffee for Good which is one of the social enterprises supported by Hong Leong Bank    Coffee for Good aims to solve unemployment among underprivileged youths in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor by providing them the access to essential job skills and barista training skills. The social enterprise aims to produce productive and financially stable youths, which will in turn enable them to bring themselves and their family out of the urban poor statistics.​ Many underprivileged youth have limited access to the current job trends and skills. Besides the lack of awareness on what the job market needs, they also have limited access to acquiring new skills due to financial limitations. Thus many youths are unemployed and easily exposed to social problems.  Coffee for Good uses the coffee industry and barista career as a platform for the youth to learn and exposed to working experience. Essential job skills and barista skills are thought to them for a one week, which this will be practiced during their one month on the job training at Coffee for Good cafe locations. Find out more about HLB DuitSmart: https://www.hlb.com.my/duitsmart Photo Credits: Hong Leong Bank    Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/11/07/huawei-launches-the-huawei-mate-s-in-malaysia/

Huawei Launches the Huawei Mate S in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets]   Huawei Technologies Malaysia launched their latest flagship device, Huawei Mate S at Ruyi & Lyn in Bangsar Shopping Centre in Kuala Lumpur on 27 October 2015. The Huawei Mate S comes with cutting edge specifications, style, and simplicity and is a sign of Huawei’s growing commitment in creating a premium look and feel in each of its devices. “At Huawei, we constantly have a hand on the pulse of consumers, always listening to their evolving digital lifestyle needs. It is because of this commitment that Huawei has come so far in both business performance and consumer loyalty. We are proud that our smartphone revenue grew by 87% in the first half of 2015 – it is a sign of the strength and performance of our devices. We’re running a marathon as far as our consumer business is concerned, and we are in it for the long run,” said Peter Tong, President of South Pacific Region, Huawei Consumer Business Group, Huawei Technologies Malaysia, when addressing the media at the official unveiling of Huawei Mate S this morning. “In line with our continuous commitment to meet changing consumer needs, Huawei Mate S redefines design and experience, both inspired by human interaction through touch. It marks our commitment not only to the premium segment but also to cater to each individual category of consumers with devices with the most premium touch, feel, looks, and experience,” he said. “Our Mate series has come a long way in its heritage of combining design and technology. It is a one-of-a-kind device engineered and designed to respond to real lifestyle needs.” Peter explained.     The Huawei Mate S exudes stylish simplicity with its refined slim full metal body finish and curved edges, and comes with the Fingerprint Sense 2.0. This new feature allows users to quickly respond to important calls, tailored control notifications, or shoot selfies. apart from unlocking the smartphone with a fingerprint. The more accurate self-learning function improves fingerprint recognition speeds by 100% and allows functions such as sliding to scroll through pictures, slide up and down to collapse or display the notification bar, double-tap to erase unread notifications and more. Through a long finger press, phone calls can be answered or switched to a hands free mode, as well as turning off the alarm clock. The Huawei Mate S improves on the Knuckle Sense technology with Knuckle Sense 2.0, which offers a smooth transition between applications using customized knuckle shortcuts on the Gorilla Glass 4 screen to complete different actions on the smartphone. A screen shot can be captured by circling the screen with a knuckle, obtain a full screen shot through double tapping, as well as ways capture partial and irregular screen shots; applications too can be opened using a knuckle to slide letters defined by the user. For instance, the letter “C” can be designated to turn on the camera. Double knuckle screen recording mode captures and records screen motion video and supports social media sharing.     The Huawei Mate S comes with diamond cutting, CNC carving, nanotechnology, and a sapphire lens that is part of the phone’s seamless metal body. Camera wise, the Huawei Mate S has a powerful selfie feature that includes an eight mega pixel front camera with a soft, front light and a new algorithm for skin polishing. It’s also easier for users to take a selfie by using the fingerprint sensor at the back of the phone as a shutter button. The camera is compatible with a manual adjustment of ISO, exposure compensation, exposure time, and more, thus bringing DSLR-capabilities to a smartphone. It is also compatible with different focus modes, as well as equipped with the grid function and flash-assisted focusing. The real-time black and white filter mode automatically takes classy photos through three varieties of black and white filters. The mode includes intensity adjustments that users can apply for their individual artistic expressions. The Huawei Mate S comes with Huawei’s signature 2 years premium warranty, 1-1 exchange during first year of warranty period, free door-to-door repair pick-up and after service delivery, one year LCD crack warranty, and priority service at any Huawei authorized service center. The first 3,000 Mate S consumers in Malaysia will also receive a Mate S Bespoke Royal Selangor VIP Pewter Card, an exclusive offer in the South Pacific region.     Specifications Screen: 5.5″, AMOLED, ONCELL, FHD Front Camera: 8MP, FF, BSI, F2.4, LED soft light Rear Camera: 13MP, AF, BSI, F2.0, Dual color-temp LED flashes Size: 149.8*75.3*7.2 mm Weight: 156g CPU: Hisilicon Kirin 935, 4x 2.2GHz + 4x 1.5GHz, 8 core GPU: MALI 628 RAM/ROM: 3GB/64GB Battery: 2700mAh (Typ.) Sensor: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, ALS, Proximate, HALL GPS: Compatible with GPS/ GLONASS/AGPS System: EMUI3.1, Android 5.1 Compatible with dual 4G SIM card Audio Hardware: Compatible with 3Mic FM reception, external earplug antenna Supporting NFC function Colour: Prestige gold   The Huawei Mate S is currently available in retail stores in Prestige Gold, and has the recommended retail price of RM 2,698.00   For more information, head over to www.facebook.com/HuaweiDeviceMY   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/11/05/travel-news-november-2018-eatdrinkhilton-a-seasonal-produce-dining-campaign-launched-across-40-hilton-properties-in-south-east-asia/

Travel News – November 2018 – #EatDrinkHilton – A Seasonal Produce Dining Campaign Launched Across 40 Hilton Properties in South East Asia

[Travel News]   Hilton officially unveiled their #EatDrinkHilton campaign on 31 October 2018, launching their seasonal produce dining campaign across its 40 properties in South East Asia. As part of #EatDrinkHilton, a select seasonal produce is highlighted as the ingredient of the month, based on which Hilton’s chefs across its hotels in South East Asia would create locally inspired culinary innovations that showcase the creativity and rich culture of each market. The campaign celebrates the use of sustainably sourced, seasonal local ingredients to connect with the deep cultural relevance of dining in the region, whilst satisfying the needs of an increasingly diverse culinary landscape. The monthly ingredients are part of an annual calendar of seasonal produce ingredients that coincide with regional and global seasons and festivals. “Food and beverage are a crucial part of Hilton’s operations in South East Asia and around the world, as we continue to deliver exceptional experiences to our guests and local community. Across every destination what makes us stand out amongst the industry, especially to locals residing in each city, is our remarkable food and beverage offerings and exceptional service,” says Paul Hutton, vice president, operations, South East Asia, Hilton. “Through #EatDrinkHilton, we hope to further inspire creative excellence among our chefs in South East Asia and at the same time encourage our guests and customers to appreciate the rich culinary heritage in the region through our chefs’ creations which are inspired by traditional cooking methods and flavors,” Hutton added. Since the campaign started its pilot earlier this year, some of the ingredients featured have included mint leaves, tea, chocolate, lemongrass and coconut milk. Unique creations which have emerged in the region are: ·         Green tea tiramisu at DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta – Diponegoro ·         Shrimp and young coconut cocktail served in a coconut by Hilton Colombo ·         Homemade mint ice cream by Hilton Bandung Come November, the seasonal ingredient in focus will be ginger, a culinary ingredient widely used in food and beverage preparation across South East Asia. In line with the festive season in December, cinnamon will be the ingredient of the month to spice up the year-end festivities. In addition to unique culinary creations, the seasonal produce ingredients are extended across various touchpoints along the guest journey experience with Hilton at these properties, from locally inspired welcome drinks, to turndown amenities and scented refresher towels for guests upon arrival. In a world which is becoming increasingly social media savvy, the #EatDrinkHilton allows Hilton team members, guests and diners to share their #EatDrinkHilton experience with their friends and network across various social media platforms.. From now till 30 November 2018, guests and diners who share their experiences stand a chance to win a 2-night stay at any participating hotel in South East Asia.     Full list of ingredients for 2019 Month Ingredient January Nuts February Sugar cane March Tomato April Grains May Coriander June Mint July Chili August Chocolate September Lemongrass October Coconut November Ginger December Cinnamon    To find out more about the campaign, past creations by chefs, and upcoming ingredients of the month, check out #EatDrinkHilton on Instagram and Twitter.    Visuals courtesy of Hilton. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/10/25/dior-homme-spring-summer-2016-fashion-show-accessories/

Dior Homme Spring Summer 2016 Fashion Show – Accessories

[Fashion – Menswear] Dior launched their Dior Homme Spring Summer 2016 accessories collection together with their menswear collection (which you can read here – https://timchew.net/2015/10/23/dior-homme-spring-summer-2016-fashion-show-menswear/) with a dazzling fashion show at the ‘Jardin à la Française’. The work of the American ceramicist Kristin McKirdy, with its tribute to the mid-century – and the creative peak of Mr. Christian Dior – is adapted to jewellery. Here, the Dior lucky charm becomes a contemporary ceramic sculpture; an abstract talisman embodying the textures and colours of the collection, the bright, enamelled coatings becoming a code for key colours of the season. “For me it is always about finding codes, menswear is full of them, and this is something i love,” say Kris van Assche. “In this collection many of the codes are traditional, but it is the accumulation of those traditions that makes it both extreme and essentially about contemporary elegance.” Catching my attention is the use of the military fatigues design in bags, belts and wallets, while the use of orange is definitely eye-catching as well. The new range of footwear features modern designs with the use of zips combined with the traditional buckles giving it a most unconventional yet stylish look. More info at www.dior.com   Bags   Eyewear   Footwear   Belts   Others   Images courtesy of Dior Malaysia Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/07/18/romantic-dining-restaurants-tanzini-at-g-tower/

Romantic Dining Restaurants – Tanzini at G Tower

[Romantic Dining Restaurants]   Over the past three (3) plus years, my partner in crime and I have visited most of the romantic dining spots (you can check out the list here – https://timchew.net/category/food/romantic-dining-spots/) in Kuala Lumpur and beyond however one of the few establishments that we have yet to visit is Tanzini at GTower so we were quite looking forward to this visit. Also so happened the timing fell close to my partner’s birthday so it was extra reason for us to be excited!   Tanzini’s wall of awards and boy have they won many awards! The interior of the dining room was modern and beautifully designed with the inclusion of lots of wood including the flooring. The chairs were comfortable and the tables were spaced apart far enough so you won’t be listening to your neighbour’s conversation the whole night long which to me is very important. Admiring the view from Tanzini’s balcony which offers almost a 180 degree view of the city Having a light moment with some wine on the chairs on the balcony before dinner Taking some selfies before dinner Some warm crusty bread to start dinner First up was an a la carte item which was one of my partner in crime’s all-time favourite dishes! Pan Seared Scallops – RM28.00 Scallops with Shimeji, Shitake, Cup Mushroom & Green Bean Purée Just look at that lovely sear on the scallops! Topped with a variety of mushrooms, and on a bed of green bean puree, the scallops were fresh and delicious. I’m not much of a fan of green beans but to my surprise it went very well with the other ingredients, balancing out the earthy flavours of the mushrooms, and the sweetness and umaminess of the scallops. My partner in crime wiped the whole dish clean, which is very rare considering her smallish appetite (and rather picky taste)! Lol. A fine start to the dinner. (Do note that this is not part of the set menu however as we got there rather early, the chef decided to let us try this before embarking on the set menu proper.)   Pan Seared Foie Grass Pan Seared Foie Gras with Arugula, Onion Marmalade and Strawberry Compote Now this was a dish that’s right down my alley! I just love properly cooked foie gras and this one was the bomb! Crispy around the edges yet remarkably soft on the inside, this was definitely my favourite dish of the night. The arugula provided some bitter flavours to counter the richness of the foie gras while the onion marmalade and strawberry compote lent some sweet and piquant flavours to round out the dish. On the palate, the foie gras felt luxurious with its rich earthy flavours really exciting my senses, so much so that I closed my eyes and savoured every mouthful. A great combination of flavours and textures, and I felt that this was the best dish of the night!   Paired with the Barwang Wall Cabernet Sauvignon, from Australia The wine was a soft and medium bodied, fruity wine with plum, blackberry and cassis flavours. It is well-balanced with rich oak characters and soft tannins giving the wine a great structure, finish and length. It went very well with the rich earthy flavours of the foie gras.   Pumpkin Orange Soup Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Orange and Puff Barwang Wall Chardonnay, Australia The wine featured fresh fruit flavours balanced against a pleasant creamy texture and soft finish. There was enough oakiness to provide balance while the acidity level gave this wine good drive and length. This was a perfect contrast to the soup which was creamy and flavourful with subtle hints of orange. This one can be very filling with the puff pastry on the top which you can break, letting it fall into the soup, soaking up the delicious flavours. We had to practice restraint with this one, and although we would have loved to finish up all the puff pastry (I truly hate seeing food go to waste), we had to save some space for the mains. I managed to finish up all the soup even though as pumpkin soup is one of my favourites! A palate cleanser before the mains. This one was nice and very refreshing so kudos to the chef for putting some effort into this.   For the mains, there was a choice of the Stew Angus Beef or the Pan Seared Cod Stew Angus Beef Slow Cooked Angus Beef with Soft Polenta and Gorgonzola Cheese Paired with Allegrini Corte Giara, Valpolicella DOC, Veneto, Italy, 2011 Dark ruby-red in colour with aromas of red berry fruits and almonds. This dry and elegant wine has flavours of cherries and prunes. Absolutely loved the polenta and Gorgonzola cheese puree which went delightfully well with the sauce!   Pan Seared Cod Pan Seared Cod with Celeriac Puree, Asparagus, and Porcini Mushroom Sauce Paired with the Allegrini Corte Giara, Soave DOC, Veneto, Italy, 2010 The wine had a bright, straw-yellow colour with greenish highlights, and was a gentle, fresh, and well-rounded with expressive aromas of apple, mineral and floral notes. This was her dish but I did try a bit. The cod was fresh and the celeriac puree was wonderfully tasty and smooth. I didn’t quite see the need for the Porcini mushroom sauce though as the fish went well with the delicate flavours of the wine which complemented the flavours of the fish.   Roman Hazelnut Parfait Hazelnut Feuilletine and Wild Berries Paired with Graham’s Late Bottled Vintage, Oporto, NV Graham’s Late Bottled Vintage Port is the brand’s foremost expression of Graham’s house style with impressive, concentrated fruit flavours, spicy complexity and depth balanced by excellent balance and structure. The finish is long and velvety. The port was a good accompaniment to the dessert with its fruity and spicy flavours complementing the rich and creamy flavours of the parfait. There were little bits of Feuilletine which are brittle crispy flakes with caramelized, praline flavours inside which added a nice contrast in texture while the wild berries provided a piquant flavour to the dish, preventing it from becoming overwhelmingly rich! This was certainly a rich and decadent end to a wonderful meal!   As it was my partner in crime’s birthday, I asked the establishment to include a candle with her dessert which they happily obliged and the staff even came to the table to sing Happy Birthday! A very memorable night for the both of us   The special set menu above is priced at RM350.00++ per pax and is only available via prior booking. The restaurant can also alter the menu to cater to special requirements, such as allergies and religious reasons. Some of the items above are also available on the a la carte menu: Homemade Sorbet -RM14.00 Pan Seared Cod – RM110.00 Roman Hazelnut Parfait – RM29.00   Tanzini’s lounge area where you can chill over some drinks before of after dinner There’s a fully stocked bar The wine cellar with a good variety of wines and champagne The restaurant has two (2) private dining rooms and an upper deck for larger functions. Pictured here is the smaller meeting room. And this is the larger private room. Good for company lunches with clients.   Tanzini is a suitable located for special occasions with your partner such as birthdays and anniversaries, as well as for private lunches/ meals in their private rooms. The upper deck is also a popular venue for small functions like product launches or even buka puasa (there was a buka puasa function on the night we visited hence I couldn’t take any pics of the upper deck).   Tanzini is located at: Level 28, GTower, 199 Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: +603 2168 1899 EMAIL: info@tanzini.com.my   OPERATION HOURS Monday to Saturday: Lunch 11.30am-2.30pm Dinner 6.30pm-10.30pm Sunday: Closed   Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TanziniKL/ Website: http://www.tanzini.com.my/     Fujifilm X-A2 Photos were shot with the Fujifilm X-A2. More info at http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x_a2/ Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2009/05/05/fashion-on-one-2009/

Fashion On One 2009

[Fashion] Belinda Chee and Henry Golding were the hosts of the night With actress Chelsia Ng Cindy and Levy Li (Miss Malaysia Universe 2008) Chermaine Poo   More info at www.1utama.com.my   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/02/23/oppo-malaysia-debuts-the-oppo-reno7-series-5g/

OPPO Malaysia Debuts the OPPO Reno7 Series 5G

[Tech & Gadgets] OPPO launched the latest addition to the Reno Series, the Reno7 5G and Reno7 Pro 5G in Malaysia on 22 February 2022 at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Cente. The Reno7 Series 5G is OPPO’s “portrait expert” smartphone capable of capturing DSLR-like portraits through features like Portrait Mode, Bokeh Flare Portrait Video, and more. The Reno7 Pro 5G camera capabilities are enhanced by the new Flagship Portrait Camera System built around two flagship imaging sensors- the IMX709 and the IMX766. The OPPO Reno7 Series 5G is equipped with powerful portrait functionality with its AI-enhanced, triple, high-definition camera setup. On the back of the OPPO Reno7 5G is a 64MP HD main camera, a 118-degree 8MP Ultra Wide-Angle camera, and a 2MP macro camera which can focus on subjects as close as 4cm away, with a 32MP ultra-clear camera on the front. OPPO Reno7 5G The higher spec OPPO Reno7 Pro 5G features the “Flagship Portrait Camera System” which comprises of a 50MP main camera powered by a flagship IMX766 sensor with a large 1/1.56-inch sensor size and advanced technologies including All Pixel Omni-Directional PDAF and DOL-HDR (Ed – yes the MP is less than the Reno7 but I believe the superior sensor makes the difference here), alongside an 8MP ultra wide-angle camera, a 2MP macro camera, and a dedicated colour temperature sensor on the rear of the device. On the front, the 32MP front camera is powered by a next generation flagship RGBW sensor — the IMX709 — which has been co-developed by OPPO and Sony and makes its world debut on Reno7 Pro 5G. Thanks to these innovations, Reno7 Pro 5G with the IMX709 is able to capture 60% more light than standard RGGB sensors while reducing noise by up to 35%. This enables Reno7 Pro 5G to capture significantly clearer and brighter images in low-light conditions, making portraits more expressive in both photo and video through enhancements to skin, texture, and contrast. Together with the industry-first use of DOL-HDR on the front camera of a smartphone, Reno7 Pro 5G’s front camera enables users to capture high-quality selfie videos, and Smart Wide-angle helps to capture selfies in different situations easily. OPPO Reno7 Pro 5G Taking full advantage on these powerful hardware foundations, Reno7 Series 5G comes packed with a series of portrait features driven by leading AI technologies: Portrait Mode delivers superior portrait photos with shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh light spots in the background. Furthermore, it provides high customization of depth of field and background bokeh in portrait images for both front and rear cameras. With 25 different aperture sizes ranging from F0.95 to F16, users can creatively adjust images according to their style with the new Portrait Mode. The advanced AI algorithm is able to simulate different optical focal lengths to create a depth of field effect similar to a wide aperture DSLR lens. Portrait Mode also offers extra photo enhancement features such as detection and preservation of skin texture and skin tone, with retouching effects that deliver high quality, clear images with a natural and professional depth of field effect. Bokeh Flare Portrait Video brings exclusive DSLR-like portrait video capabilities to the Reno 7 Series 5G with just a few clicks. Powered by OPPO’s image processing algorithms, Bokeh Flare Portrait Video delivers real-time processing of portrait video while keeping portrait subjects appearing natural and bright. With skin tone detection and preservation further optimized, alongside an entire palette of retouching effects, users can easily create eye-catching videos with bokeh flare in the background for a look that was previously possible using large aperture DSLR camera lenses. AI Highlight Video can capture details in both background and foreground clearly by automatically making optimizations based on the lighting environment. The Live HDR and Ultra Night Video algorithms of AI Highlight Video are enabled automatically when shooting video on the rear camera. Users can shoot clearer, brighter, and higher-quality videos in backlit sunsets or dark cityscapes without manual adjustment. Reno7 Series 5G is also equipped with a number of creative image features: AI Color Portrait Video can automatically detect the subject in the video and retain its full original colour while turning the rest of the image black and white; Dual-View Video shoots video from both front and rear cameras simultaneously (Ed – I love this feature); Portrait Retouching detects different people within a video and applies different retouching effects based on identified traits. Reno7 Series 5G also offers powerful imaging features in different scenarios, including Ultra Steady Video, Focus Tracking, Ultra-Clear 108MP Image, and Flash Snapshot. The Reno7 Series 5G features an ultra-slim body, which is about 7.81 mm thick and approximately 173g in weight for the Reno7 5G, and 7.45mm thick and 180g in weight for the Reno7 Pro 5G. Both comes in two fresh colors: Startrails Blue and Starry Black for Reno7 5G whereas Startrails Blue and Starlight Black for the Reno7 Pro 5G. The OPPO Reno7 5G comes in Startrails Blue and Starry Black Startrails Blue has been created by the innovative use of Laser Direct Imaging manufacturing process where OPPO has applied LDI processing to draw 1.2 million micro-rasters, and each raster has been created with a precision of just 20 microns, giving Startrails Blue the impression of a meteor shower gliding across the back cover of the phone. Dual-texture, dual-coating layer infuses the phone with two layers of color, giving Startrails Blue multiple dynamic color changes from cold to warm in just one-color finish. Bringing even more light to the back cover of the Reno7 Pro 5G is the Orbit Breathing Light, an industry-first, 3D circular light surrounding the camera area. The Orbit Breathing Light gently emits light when receiving incoming calls or notifications, and is one cool feature that will make your device stand out! Reno7 Pro 5G‘s Orbit Breathing Light On the front, the Reno7 5G equipped with 6.4-inch AMOLED screen with 90 Hz refresh rate and 180 Hz touch sampling rate, while the Reno7 Pro 5G equipped with a 6.5-inch AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate. Both screens are SGS Eye Care Display Certified as a low-blue light screen, which can help to reduce eye strain during extended use and Netflix HD and Amazon Prime Video Certified that allows users to experience high quality streaming content in even greater detail. Powered by the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 900 5G SoC and MediaTek Dimensity 1200-MAX flagship-level 5G-integrated SoC on the Reno7 5G and Reno7 Pro 5G respectively, using 6nm process technology, both devices support both 5G and Wi-Fi 6, ensuring faster connectivity during mobile gaming. In an addition to the Reno7 Pro 5G, the octa-core SoC includes an ARM Cortex-A78 core operating at up to 3GHz, delivering computing power with lower power consumption. The Reno7 5G comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage while the Reno7 Pro 5G comes with 12GB of RAM and 256GB ROM. With RAM Expansion technology developed by OPPO, this existed RAM can be further supplemented with an additional 2GB, 3GB, or 5GB of temporary RAM for Reno7 5G and additional 12GB of RAM for Reno7 Pro 5G allocated from unused ROM storage. Both the Reno7 5G and Reno7 Pro 5G also equipped with a large 4,500 mAh battery, 65W SUPERVOOCTM charging, Super Power Saving Mode, and Super Nighttime Standby. This enables the Reno7 Series 5G to be charged to 100% in 31 minutes. OPPO has further optimized the Reno7 Series 5G to deliver a better all-round mobile gaming experience by integrating the upgraded HyperBoost suite of technologies: AI Frame Rate Stabilizer monitors system performance and temperature changes in real time and keeps frame rate drops at optimal values to ensure a smoother gaming experience; Quick Startup keeps frequently played games alive in the background, enabling users to jump back into a game instantly. As part of the first series to come with all-new ColorOS 12, Reno7 Series 5G offers smart efficiency, smoothness, and strengthened privacy. With Air Gestures, users can answer and mute phone calls, or control popular apps by gesturing with their hands without touching the phone. PC Connect offers more convenient ways to work between multiple devices by seamlessly connecting Reno7 Series 5G to a PC. Once connected, files, notifications and more can be controlled between the two devices with ease. Security is also enhanced at the operating system level on Reno7 Series 5G. Anti-Peeping for Notifications hides notification content if sensing that someone else is looking at the phone. The ultra-secure user experience has been certified by third-party organizations including ePrivacy, ISO, and TrustArc for data security protocols. Exclusively for Reno7 5G, aided by AI System Booster resource allocation optimizations, the comprehensive aging rate of Reno7 5G is just 2.75% after 3 years of daily use, providing a smoother and faster experience for longer. This has been verified in the TÜV SÜD 36-Months’ Fluency Certification, for which Reno7 5G is the first smartphone that certified with TÜV SÜD 36-month fluency rating A.  OPPO Watch Free The brand-new OPPO Watch Free was officially released on 22 February 2022. This stylish and contemporary watch is the entry-level smart watch that comes with OSleep All-Scenario Sleep Monitoring, as well as professional sport modes and other health functions. OPPO Watch Free’s OSleep All-Scenario Sleep Monitoring is able to provide professional, comprehensive, and personalized sleep monitoring and analysis for before, during, and after sleep. In particular, the exclusive snore assessment, which is supported by professional sensors and advanced algorithms, can effectively detect sleep problems, and propose suggestions in a timely manner. Its snoring evaluation algorithm will combine with continuous second level SpO2 monitoring through an optical SpO2 sensor and detect heart rate variability via its’ optical heart rate sensor. As a result, snores of the users will be recorded. For instance, OPPO Watch Free sends bedtime reminders and analyses your sleep latency, sleep duration, and sleep phases with features such as deep and light sleep analysis and rapid eye movement (REM) monitoring. On top of that, OPPO Watch Free has a built-in 6-axis motion sensor and an optical heart rate sensor to support over 100 sport modes. Using algorithms, the sensors automatically identify different sport modes. Additionally, OPPO Watch Free supports 24-hour heart rate monitoring, which records the heart rate around the clock and warns the user with vibration when irregular heartbeat is detected. OPPO Watch Free also has a long battery life of 14 days. Just 5 minutes of charging will get you a full day of use. It is an extension of your phone as it equipped with a range of convenience features such as Message Notifications, Incoming Call Notifications, Call Rejection, Find My Phone, and Music Playback Control. Weighing only 33g, OPPO Watch Free is not just light to wear but also clear to read with a 1.64-inch AMOLED HDdisplay. The smooth leather-like strap offers a breathable fit that stays comfortable. You can even create personalized watch faces that match your outfit with OPPO Watch Free’s over 40+ stylish watch faces and AI outfit watch Face 2.0. The OPPO Watch Free is available in two colour options of Vanilla and Black. OPPO Enco Air2 OPPO also launched the OPPO Enco Air2 in Malaysia. The Enco Air2 adopts a 13.4mm composite titanized diaphragm driver, which provides deep, powerful bass, crystal-like midrange, and silvery treble. The earbuds are also built with a bass booster to further enhance their bass performance. Each earbud only weighs 3.5g which places it among the top end of the industry in terms of weight. Thanks to the efforts of the OPPO Blu-ray Team, the OPPO Enco Air2 provides users with balanced audio and two brand new Enco Live sound effects: Bass Boost and Clear Vocals. Continuing the previous generation’s translucent case lid design, the glassy, almost-transparent charging case of OPPO Enco Air2 is instantly recognisable. The OPPO Enco Air2 also ensures lag-free experience with the ability to deliver music playback for up to 4 hours without the charging case and 24 hours with the charging case. The OPPO Enco Air2 supports the binaural low latency with Bluetooth® 5.2 transmission, which can ensure Bluetooth® stability. Certified by TÜV Rheinland High Performance and Low Latency Certificate, users can now triple tap to enable Game Mode and enter low-latency mode where it is designed to solve out-of-sync audio and visuals, interference kinds of problems. The OPPO Enco Air2 is geared with AI Noise Cancellation for calls, and feature several updated smart touch controls, this includes double tap to remotely control the camera, providing hands-free convenience. The OPPO Enco Air2 is available in two colours options of White and Blue. Pre-orders of the Reno7 Series 5G will begin from 22 February 2022 until 4 March 2022. Pre-order purchases are entitled to free gifts worth up to RM1406 including Enco Buds (RP: RM159), Reno Bag (RP:RM109), OPPO Care 1 Year Screen Protection (RP: RM139) (only available for customers who pick up their devices on 5 and 6 March 2022) and My OPPO Members privilege of an extra free gifts worth up to RM999 which consist of Genting SkyWorlds Theme park Entry, Malaysia Airlines free return tickets, complimentary entry to Plaza Premium Lounge, 3 months VIU  premium subscription, RM100 Carlo Rino Cash Voucher, 1 month complimentary entry to Celebrity Fitness Club, RM200 rebate when you purchase with ReNew+ and many more! All the deals will be redeemable via the My OPPO App. Pre-orders can be made at all My OPPO Space, OPPO Brand Stores, OPPO Official Online Store, Telco Partners, E-comm partners and chain-store partners. You can also get an extra 50% off for OPPO Watch Free and OPPO Enco Air 2 when you purchase the OPPO Reno7 Series 5G at OPPO Brand Store outlets. Customers who pre-order the OPPO Reno7 Series 5G on participating e-commerce platforms will instead receive an OPPO customizable protection kit. OPPO will be having a first sale roadshow from 28 February until 6 March 2022 at Sunway Pyramid and 10 roadshows nationwide. The first 100 customers who pick up their device at the Sunway Pyramid roadshow will receive a free OPPO Watch Free (RP:RM449). The offer is also applicable to the first 30 customers who pick up their device at other Reno7 roadshows nationwide! The OPPO Reno7 5G and OPPO Reno7 Pro 5G is priced at RM1,999 and RM2,999 respectively. The OPPO Enco Air 2 and OPPO Watch Free are priced at RM249 and RM449 respectively. For more information, head over to https://www.oppo.com/my . Photo credits: OPPO Malaysia Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/10/11/events-honor-8x-launched-in-malaysia-and-shucked-oyster-festival-2018/

Events – Honor 8X Launched in Malaysia and Shucked Oyster Festival 2018

[Events] Honor 8X Launched in Malaysia This slideshow requires JavaScript.   Headed over to New World Petaling Jaya Hotel on October 2018 for honor Malaysia’s launch of their new honor 8X in Malaysia. Also present during the launch event were official honor Malaysia brand ambassador, famous homebred singer-songwriter and rapper, SonaOne, alongside popular local TV personality Zizan Razak, the official ambassador for honor 8X.   “We had a great year in 2018, and we would like to end the year on a positive note with the honor 8X,” said George Zhao Zhiwei, Head of honor Malaysia. “The honor 8X is an exceptional technological advancement towards a truly borderless FullView display. With a very competitive 20MP-strong rear camera and our latest GPU Turbo technology embedded into the device, honor 8X manages to cover all the bases of a day-to-day usage for any smartphone user, no matter the gender, profession, hobbies and interests.”   In conjunction with the launch of honor 8X, the brand also took the opportunity to introduce a special collaboration with Suriana Welfare Society Malaysia, a non-government, not-for-profit child protection organization which promotes and protects the rights of children. The collaboration aims to empower and inspire the next generation to live the moment and achieve their dreams. This initiative is driven through collaborative art with the theme “The Braves”.   “Honor was created to meet the needs of digital natives through unrivalled products and unbeatable values, and is rapidly becoming a youthful, innovative, and trendsetting brand across the globe. To live up to our brand spirit and the tagline ‘Beyond Limits’, we want to co-create value and empower the youth through this meaningful collaboration. Together with Suriana, we urge members of the public join us in empowering the next generation to take their destinies into their own hands,” said Zhao. George Zhao Zhiwei, Head of honor Malaysia, Zizan Razak, SonaOne, Scott Wong, Executive Director of Suriana Welfare Society Malaysia (left to right)   For the first time ever, the honor 8X comes with a seamless HD FullView screen, with advanced chip-on-film (COF) technology and special antenna design. With only 4.25 mm of the bottom border size, the honor 8X simply provides more screen space for the user to enjoy every bit of graphic that is projected from the device. The 91% screen-to-body-ratio means that every bit of the screen is utilized to ensure the user could get a larger view even though the size of the phone body remains the same. With a nearly borderless design, the 6.5-inch device shows visuals in a 1080P High Definition display, offering an enhanced video quality in a cinema-like experience. The device covers 85% of the NTSC colour gamut and supports a split screen mode, with a Unique Eye Comfort Mode Certified by TÜV Rheinland – which equals to a larger screen that reduces eye fatigue! The honor 8X comes with the Kirin 710 chipset, which is a 64-bit octa-core mid-range performance mobile chipset. It is complemented with a 12nm Cortex-A73 generation-based SoC and a Mali G51 GPU that offers a 130% increase in GPU performance and 75% increase to the CPU single-core performance. Following in the footsteps of previous honor models, the honor 8X also comes with the spectacular GPU Turbo. The graphics-enhancing technology, which was previously only available on honor flagship devices, along with EMUI 8.2 system, will ensure better graphic-processing technology and less power consumption for your device, if the 3750mAh enhanced battery life was not already enough for you. The new honor 8X is equipped with not only a dual-lens, 20M + 2M, F/1.8 aperture rear camera, but also a modern AI Camera Technology which recognizes 22 different categories and 500 scenarios in real-time, then optimizes camera settings and enhances photo quality based on what you are shooting. Furthermore, the honor 8X also features the 3D portrait lighting technology that allows users to further beautify photos that already has an accurate ‘bokeh’ effect from the 3D portrait lighting technology. Combined with the 16MP front camera that has an enhanced-ISO with 4 Cell fusion technology and multi-frame image processing, the new device will promise users for covering every aspect of photography.     Early purchasers of the honor 8X will receive some free gifts*: Promotion period Location Free Gifts (per purchase of one unit) 12 Oct (ONE DAY PROMOTION ONLY) Hihonor One unit of honor Band 3, one unit of Special Gift Box, one unit of honor 8X Flip Cover, Hihonor voucher RM100 Shopee One unit of honor Band 3, one unit of Special Gift Box, one unit of honor 8X Flip Cover, Hihonor voucher RM100, Shopee Coin RM50 13 – 14 Oct MyTown Cheras One unit of honor Band 3, one unit of Special Gift Box, one unit of honor 8X Flip Cover, RM50 Hihonor voucher, one unit of honor backpack (Worth over RM500 in total)     Prangin Mall, Penang Sutera Mall, Johor Bharu *Free gifts available in very limited units, while stocks last. Terms and Conditions apply.   Customers could also receive free gifts worth up to RM266 that includes an honor Band 3 and an honor 8X Flip Cover in selected honor stores nationwide, limited to 20 units per store*. For more info on participating stores, head over to http://bit.ly/8Xpromoparticipatingstorelist. For more information on the new honor 8X, head over to http://hihonor.com/my, or purchase on Shopee at https://shopee.com.my/honor.os     Honor 8X Technical Specifications Display 5-inch 2340p x 1080p LTPS display with 16,700,000 colors, 397 PPI 5:9 wide screen Multiple-point touch-sensitive screen Size and Weight 4 mm (H) x 76.6 mm x 7.8 mm (D) Approximately 175g (including the battery) Operating System AndroidO + Huawei EMUI 8.2 Processor Kirin 710, Octa-Core (4 x Cortex-A73 2.2 GHz + 4 x Cortex-A53 1.7 GHz) GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) Mali G51 Battery Typical value: 3750 mAh battery Charging duration: approximately 150 minutes from supplied charger [1] Airtime: 3G: 21 hours [2] Standby time: GSM: 662 hours, WCDMA: 639 hours, LTE FDD: 675 hours, LTE TDD: 697 hours [3] Memory ROM: 128 GB RAM: 4 GB Expandable storage: microSD card (up to 400 GB)[4]   Camera 20-megapixel (F/1.8 aperture) + 2-megapixel dual-lens rear-facing camera with Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF) Photo resolution: up to 5120 x 3840 Video resolution: up to 1920 x 1080 (1080P, 60fps) 16-megapixel (F/2.0 aperture) front-facing camera Photo resolution: up to 4608 x 3456 Video resolution: up to 1920 x 1080 (1080P, 30fps) Audio/Video 1080P full HD video recording and video playback 5 mm headset jack SIM card 3 card slots: nano-SIM card + nano-SIM card + microSD card     All visuals courtesy of Honor Malaysia.     Shucked Oyster Festival 2018 This slideshow requires JavaScript.   Ruby, Kathy and I headed over to the 2018 SHUCKED Oyster Festival in Bangsar which was a festival organised by Southern Rock Seafood in collaboration with a few local Jalan Kemuja businesses such as Fierce Curry House, Nala, and Pahit. There were also gelatos from Jersey Jack, chocolate brownies from Dignity & Services. as well as the highlight of the festival – the finals of the Malaysian Oyster Shucking Championships 2018. Over 800 people thronged the festival throughout the day making it their largest event to date. We got to eat lots of fresh oysters from Ireland, France, Australia, the Netherlands and New Zealand, as well as smoked salmon, fabulous fish & chips, seafood paella, and mussels laksa. Guinness draught was on tap and there was also champagne, prosecco, wines and beers.      Fighting off stiff competition, Malaysian national champion Fizly Bin Norazlan retained the National Shucking Crown for 2018. His winning time for opening 12 oysters without shell damage was verified by international shucking judge, Jimmy Gallagher, founder of Irish Premium Oysters. 2018 Champion Fizly, who hails from Bangsar, represented Malaysia at the World Oyster Championships in Galway, Ireland and the Shuck Off China World Cup in Beijing, China during his 2017 championship year.    I got sniped while I was shooting the shucking competition “It marvellous to come back to Malaysia and see even greater numbers of people enjoying our wonderful oysters, and enjoying the excitement of the Shucking championship,” says Jimmy Gallagher (on the left who was one of the judges for the competition), who spent many years as a fisherman in the cold Atlantic waters of Ireland before founding his world-class oyster farm in pristine Tragheanna Bay, Donegal, Ireland. “The competition is getting harder each year and I felt the pressure to shuck even faster,” says Fizly. “Now I hope to get a Top 20 placing for Malaysia in the world in 2018.” “I can truly say that the oyster festival has landed in Malaysia,” says Josh Green, chief Shucker at Southern Rock Seafood, the parent company of SHUCKED Oyster Festival. “I love the delight Malaysians have for fresh, delicious seafood.” Festival goers were entertained by the Kaki Keltik Irish Band and the Albino Deer Asian Funk Band. The event was also family friendly with kids entertained by the clown, face painting and a bouncy castle. There was also a shucking content for patrons where couples challenged each other to see which couple could shuck and down an oyster shot in the fastest time It was really pretty amusing to watch!   The SHUCKED Oyster Festival is Southern Rock Seafood’s highlight event featuring the world’s best oysters and seafood in a friendly, bold and cheeky atmosphere. It builds world-class expertise in the Malaysian food industry by selecting the Malaysian Shucker for the World Oyster Championships in Galway, Ireland and the Shuck Off China World Cup. The SHUCKED Oyster Festival has been running since 2015. Established in 2008, Southern Rock Seafood imports and distributes live and fresh chilled seafood from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Southern Rock Seafood supplies most of KL’s top restaurants and hotels, and they also operate their own restaurant in Bangsar, and a chain of SHUCKED Oyster and Seafood bars at Village Grocer (Arcadia and M-City), B.I.G (Publika, Ikano Power Centre and DC Mall), The Roof, Bandar Utama and The Gardens Mall, Mid Valley. For more info or to purchase seafood online at their site, head over to https://shop.southernrockseafood.com.my/ Photo credits: Shucked Oyster Festival and author’s own   . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/08/03/test-drive-peugeot-208/

Test Drive – Peugeot 208

[Automobile] Hot hatches are really fun to drive so when the nice folks at Peugeot Malaysia (aka Nasim Sdn Bhd) invited me to test drive the Peugeot 208 (5 door) for a weekend I happily obliged. Of course it also helped as I have an affinity towards Peugeot cars as I love the level of refinement and detail on their mass market cars. Styling wise, the Peugeot 208 looks sleek and stylish with the large grille and swept back headlights. Under the hood is a 1.6 litre 4 inline cylinders DOHC 16 valve, VTI (dual variable valve timing and lift) engine which generates 122ps and has a max torque of 160Nm at 4,250rpm. The engine is mated to an auto adaptive gearbox with Tiptronic and sport mode, and this translates into a quick nippy little hot hatch that’s great for city roads while parking is a breeze! . The driver and passenger electric folding side view mirrors come with a heater The headlights feature Peugeot’s LED Signature Lighting, and have the “Follow Me Home” setting in which the headlights stay on for a couple of seconds after you lock or unlock the car which helps to illuminate your path The Peugeot 208 runs on 16″ two-tone helium alloy rims with 195/55/R16 tyres and is steered by an advanced electric power steering system. The front suspension is MacPherson struts with anti roll bar while the rear features a trailing arm with deformable cross-member axle. The front brakes come equipped with ventilated discs while the rear uses solid discs. The Peugeot 208 has a 5 star EURONCAP rating with safety features that include: 6 Airbags Anti Lock Braking System (ABS) Emergency Brake Assist Electronic Brake Distribution Electronic Stability Programme with Anti Skid Regulator and Dynamic Stability Control Very high strength steel body structure Deadlocking doors Electronic child safety door lock Auto hazard light on de-acceleration 2x ISOFIX anchorage points at the rear 3x 3-point safety belts in the rear Now let’s have a look at the interior. The boot is pretty spacious for a car this size. For size comparison I placed 2 brochures – A2 size on the left and A3 size on the right.   The aircon has a digital dual zone function which is normally found in more premium cars. There are audio and multi-function display controls on the steering wheel so you can keep both hands on the wheel when driving. I always like this feature but it’s usually on C segment/ more premium cars. Glad to see it in the 208. The floating dashboard comes with a LCD colour display and multi-stage illumination The interactive HD colour touchscreen allows you to control the radio/ audio, and the Bluetooth hand-free kit. The audio system is an impressive Arkamys 3D system equipped with 6 speakers and this was a feature that I really liked about the 208! Depress the (S) button to enable the “Sport Mode” which gives a sportier ride and gear shifts at higher RPM. The (*) button is for “Snow Mode” and starts the engine at second gear (not that it’ll ever be used here in Malaysia). Roomy enough for me (I’m 5′ 10″ tall) The chrome trimming gives the 208 a sporty touch, and if you look carefully you can see the speakers embedded subtly in the door The rear speakers are also embedded in the door. All of the windows are one touch and anti pinch. Girls would love this feature – driver side vanity mirror with lights! . Other features included in the Peugeot 208: 60/40 one touch foldable rear seats Glove box with cooler Auto wipers function with auto rear wipers in reverse gear . The Peugeot 208 (5 door) is available in five (5) colours namely digital white, platinum black, virtual blue, rogue red, and passion silver. Price: RM85,888.00 (on the road with insurance) and comes with a 5 year unlimited mileage warranty from the date of first registration. More info at http://www.peugeot.com.my Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/08/19/lamborghini-countach-lpi-800-4-unveiled-at-the-quail/

Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 Unveiled at The Quail

[Automotive News] Automobili Lamborghini unveiled the Countach LPI 800-4 at The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, at Sant’Agata Bolognese/ Pebble Beach USA on 13 August 2021. The Countach LPI 800-4 is a futuristic limited edition paying homage to the Countach’s iconic status as a revolutionary design and technology rule-breaker and recreated for the 21st century. The Countach LPI 800-4’s puristic lines are immediately recognizable from the Countach legacy: the patriarch of modern super sports cars and Lamborghini design. With its aspirated V12 engine combined with Lamborghini’s hybrid supercapacitor technology, the Countach LPI 800-4 retains the inimitable V12 experience and sound from its Longitudinale Posteriore (LP) mounted powerplant combined with the hybrid technology developed for the Sián. Delivering 814 cv as maximum combined power (rounded at 800 in the name) from its aspirated powerplant (780 cv) and electric motor (34 cv) to its permanent four-wheel drive transmission, the LPI 800-4 produces peak Lamborghini performance of 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 2.8 seconds, a 0-200 km/h in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 355 km/h. “The Countach LPI 800-4 is a visionary car of the moment, just as its forerunner was. One of the most important automotive icons, the Countach not only embodies the design and engineering tenet of Lamborghini but represents our philosophy of reinventing boundaries, achieving the unexpected and extraordinary and, most importantly, being the ‘stuff of dreams’. The Countach LPI 800-4 pays homage to this Lamborghini legacy but it is not retrospective: it imagines how the iconic Countach of the 70s and 80s might have evolved into an elite super sports model of this decade. It upholds the Lamborghini tradition of looking forward, of exploring new design and technology avenues while celebrating the DNA of our brand. It is a Lamborghini that innately expresses the marque’s enduring and emotive power: always inspirational and thrilling to see, hear and most of all drive.”Automobili Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann The Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 is instantly recognizable as a descendant of Countach generations: testament to the lasting impact of the original Countach design that became the poster car of the 1980s and a symbol of automotive and lifestyle ultra-cool. The Countach moniker – a fitting expression of surprise and wonder in Piedmontese dialect and pronounced ‘Coon-tach’ – is one of very few Lamborghini model names not connected to bulls. “The first Countach has been present in our Centro Stile as a model for some years now. Whenever I look at it, it gives me goosebumps and it serves as the perfect reminder for me and the entire design team to design every future Lamborghini in a visionary and futuristic way. This is an unnegotiable part of our DNA, the essence if you so will. The first Countach shaped the Lamborghini design DNA like no other car; the new Countach translates that unconventional and edgy character into the future.”Mitja Borkert, Head of Centro Stile The Countach’s distinctive silhouette with the essential line running from front to rear, sharp angles and lines and idiosyncratic wedge shape, innovated modern super sports design, consistent with Lamborghini models. The Countach LPI 800-4 develops the characteristic lines of the Countach’s five models over nearly 20 years, concentrated into the purest realization of iconic automotive design. The final outline is pure and uncluttered, with references to the first LP 500 and LP 400 production versions. Giving the LPI 800-4 a distinctive Countach face, inspiration was taken from the Quattrovalvole edition in the assertive lines of the front bonnet with long, low rectangular grille and headlights, as well as in the wheel arches with their hexagonal theme. The sharp inclination of the greenhouse adopts the straight lines redolent of the original Countach, adjoining the powerful, clean front-to-rear line. There is no fixed rear wing outside the pure lines, and the airscoops are integrated fluidly in the strong shoulders of the car, embellished with the distinctive Countach slatted ‘gills’. The iconic and aerodynamically powerful NACA air intakes cut into the side and doors of the Countach LPI 800-4 while the distinctive Periscopio lines running through the roof to the rear of the car, particularly distinctive if viewed from above, appear to float towards the rear of the car. The rear of the Countach LPI 800-4 is immediately recognizable from its distinctive inverted wedge shape, with the rear bumper featuring a lower, sleeker line, and the ‘hexagonita’ design shaping the three-unit rear light clusters. The LPI 800-4 sports the four-strong exhaust tailpipes of the Countach family, connected within the carbon fiber rear diffuser. Access for driver and passenger is of course via the infamous scissor doors, first introduced on the Countach and that have become a Lamborghini V12 signature. The V12 engine of the Countach is as notable as the design. Mounted longways at the rear together with its forward-cabin layout, the original Countach featured side-mounted radiators from Formula One; forward-facing gearbox and tubular spaceframe technology. It was as revolutionary in its approach to sports car engineering as in its astonishing looks, with its engine position chosen for weight distribution and balance and of course, the aspirated twelve cylinders delivering the most emotive top performance. The Countach developed the best available technologies to produce an extraordinary car: this visionary philosophy is reflected in the Countach LPI 800-4, taking the pinnacle of current Lamborghini technologies and engineering to produce the performance expected from a Countach in 2021. “The engineering team that developed the original Countach advanced Lamborghini’s pioneering technical approach, delivering unexpected innovations and the best performance available in a production car. That spirit inherently drives Lamborghini R&D, resulting in the pioneering hybrid technology in the LPI 800-4, and the emotive driving experience and top-line performance expected from a flagship V12 Lamborghini.”Lamborghini Chief Technology Officer Maurizio Reggiani The Lamborghini V12 6.5 litre engine, outputting 780 cv, is combined with a 48 volt e-motor mounted directly on the gearbox providing a further 34 cv for immediate response and increased performance: it is the innovative and unique architecture Lamborghini developed for Sián, that is the only mild-hybrid technology to create a direct connection between electric motor and wheels, preserving the pure V12 behaviour. The e-motor is powered by a supercapacitor providing three times more power compared to a lithium-ion battery of the same weight. The monocoque chassis and all the body panels are in carbon fiber, provide the optimum lightweight solution as well as exceptional torsional stiffness: the Countach LPI 800-4 has a dry weight of 1595 kg for a dry weight to power ratio of 1,95 kg/cv. Visible exterior carbon fiber features are available in the front splitter, around the front window and wing mirrors, engine bonnet cover air intakes and rocker panel and it is always present in specific interior details. Moveable air vents produced by the state-of-the-art 3D printing technology, and a photocromatic roof – change from solid to transparent at the push of a button. The Countach LPI 800-4 was unveiled on 13 August 2021 at The Quail, USA in a dedicated colour Bianco Siderale, containing a hint of pearlescent blue and reminiscent of Ferruccio Lamborghini’s own Countach LP 400 S, complete with red and black leather heritage interior. The interior also takes design cues from the original Countach within the context of a modern car. The classic and luxurious leather features geometric stitching on the specially designed comfort seats and dashboard, sporting a square motif referencing the bold style and optimism of 1970s design and technology. The Countach LPI 800-4 20” (front) and 21” (rear) wheels are created in the ‘telephone’ style of the 1980s, fitted with carbon ceramic brake discs, and Pirelli P Zero tyres. Owners of the exclusive limited edition Countach LPI 800-4 can choose from a range of heritage exterior paint options, mostly in solid colours, such as the iconic Impact White, Giallo Countach and Verde Medio. Otherwise, the contemporary palette offers modern paintings, mostly metallic colours, such as Viola Pasifae or Blu Uranus. An 8.4” HDMI center touchscreen unique to the LPI 800-4 manages car controls including Connectivity and Apple CarPlay. It also includes a unique button entitled ‘Stile’ (Design): pressed, it explains the Countach design philosophy to its privileged audience. Produced in a run of 112 units, the number denotes the ‘LP 112’ internal project name used during the original Lamborghini Countach’s development. The Countach LPI 800-4 will be delivered from the first quarter of 2022 to owners worldwide, privileged to drive a piece of automotive history reimagined for the future. Photo/ visual credits: Automobili Lamborghini Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/01/30/petronas-launches-the-all-new-petronas-primax-95-with-pro-drive/

PETRONAS Launches the All-New PETRONAS Primax 95 with Pro-Drive

[Automotive News]   PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad (PDB) launched the all-new PETRONAS Primax 95 with Pro-Drive on 29 January 2019 at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. The new fuel is part of the company’s commitment to deliver a seamless and frictionless experience for its customers to move ahead smoothly. and promises a smoother drive, responsive engine performance and enhanced fuel efficiency.   PETRONAS developed the new fuel which comes with the world’s first Dual Friction Modifier that helps reduce friction by 20%, as compared to previous single friction modifier, thus allowing engines to run smoother and be more responsive. The Double Detergent has boosted fuel’s cleaning agent to eliminate up to 99% carbon deposits to ensure cleaner engine and better fuel efficiency. Additionally, the Anti-Corrosion chemistry gives engines 2X better protection for superior engine performance.  The new fuel formulation has leveraged on PETRONAS’ world-class research and development facilities in Europe and the USA that supported Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 in a campaign that saw the team win its fifth consecutive World Constructors Championship in 2018. In a prime example of how Formula 1 technology benefits us consumers, the engineers carried on to formulate fuel that meets current road engine technology and requirements, from indirect injection to direct injection and hybrid. The launch was officiated by the Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Y.B. Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (left), accompanied by PDB’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Syed Zainal Abidin (right) Speaking at the event, Datuk Seri Saifuddin said, “I appreciate PDB investing resources and developing new solutions to raise the bar and introduce better products into the market. There is nothing better than healthy competitions between industry players because at the end of the day, the customers win with quality products meeting their demands.”  Elaborating further, Dato’ Sri Syed Zainal said, “This new Primax 95 with Pro-Drive is responding to feedback from surveys we conducted that asked for smoother drive, responsive engine performance, and cleaner engine with better fuel efficiency.” Prior to the launch, two third-party agencies, Top Gear and Paultan.org, put this new fuel to a blind test with over 200 popular local and international-made vehicles. The results were very encouraging, with over 70% of the participants indicated that the new fuel performed better than their current fuel in terms of smoothness, responsiveness and efficiency. Dato’ Sri added, “PDB is embarking on a transformation journey to undertake unconventional route in delivering products and services that reduce frictions in our customers’ everyday life and journey. We are adopting a customer-obsessed mindset in this journey and there will be more innovative and value-added offerings awaiting our customers from here forth,” Beyond fuel, PDB has also introduced its new Kedai Mesra with enhanced offerings, including F&B complementing the signature Mornings@Mesra. More than 100 PETRONAS stations in the Klang Valley are already Setel-enabled (read about Setel by Petronas here – https://timchew.net/2018/12/12/petronas-at-the-kuala-lumpur-international-motorshow-klims-2018/), South East Asia’s first e-payment app that allows drivers to purchase fuel from the comfort of their vehicles. And the ROVR trucks, an innovative mobile fuel delivery service, will be roving the streets to provide fleet customers with a new refueling experience. PDB’s transformation journey is an ongoing effort, and it will continuously innovate and enhance its products and offerings including facilities such as payment terminal, surau and 5-star quality washrooms to deliver a seamless and frictionless experience. (Ed – I’m really glad to see our national petroleum company taking steps to be a dynamic and progressive organisation which puts its consumers first!) To encourage trials, beginning 1 February until 3 February 2019, motorists will receive RM1 off any Kedai Mesra items for every RM30 purchase of the new PETRONAS Primax 95 with Pro-Drive at any PETRONAS stations nationwide. For more information, head over to http://www.mymesra.my . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/01/01/editors-note-january-2020/

Editor’s Note – January 2020

[Editor’s Note] Chinese New Year Menu at Ti Chen, The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur   Naomi and I recently visited Ti Chen Chinese Restaurant at The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur to try their spread of specialty gourmet dishes available this Chinese New Year. This year, Ti Chen is offering three (3) themed set menu creations namely the Silver and Gold Set, Rich and Affluent Set, and Fortune and Longevity Set, signifying representations of the astrological tradition. This year’s Chinese/ Lunar New Year menus will be available from 8th January till 8th February 2020 from 12 pm to 3 pm (lunch), and 6 pm to 10 pm (dinner). Ti Chen will be open daily during the festive period except on the first day of Chinese New Year (25 January 2020). “We are excited about our special menu created for our guests this year, highlighting the abundance set menu style meal packages of Silver and Gold, Rich and Affluent, and Fortune and Longevity, targeting corporate clients, families and friends to toss and celebrate the mark of another wonderful season,” says Chef Lim Chee Woi, Chinese Executive Chef.  “2020 is set to be a year filled with luck, growth and prosperity”. Symbolic of good luck, prosperity, health and all things auspicious, toss to “Loh Hei” with Ti Chen. The set meal packages for five to ten people cover a full range of time-honoured favourites including Roasted Sesame with Cracker and Green Chilli Sauce Chicken, Salmon and Snow Pear Yee Sang with Crispy Shredded Treasure and Blackcurrant-Plum dressing, Mini Steam Glutinous Rice wrapped in Lotus Leaf with Dried Oyster, Wok Fried Sea Prawn with Butter and Egg Yolk in traditional style Chilled Lemon Grass Jelly with Yuzu Sorbet, and much more. The meal packages are offered with a bottle of Jacob’s Creek Shiraz or Free Flow of Soft Drinks for three hours.  The Rich and Affluent Set, and the Fortune and Longevity Set come with one (1) bottle of Glenlivet Captain’s Reserve, or Berry Bros. and Rudd Classic Sherry Cask. The price for set meal packages ranges from RM1,788 for the Silver and Gold Set, RM2,088 for the Rich and Affluent Set and RM 3,088 for the Fortune and Longevity Set, inclusive of service charge and government taxes. To commemorate the Chinese New Year festivities, the Saujana Hotel will host a lion dance performance in the lobby area at 10.30am on 30 January 2020.  Below are some of the restaurant’s signature dishes (that are in the three menus) that we tried during the media preview.   福寿双全齐捞起 Soft Shell Crab and Salmon Yee Sang with Crispy Shredded Treasures and Blackcurrant-Plum Dressing This yee sang was topped with both salmon and soft shell crab! Takes the crown for being my fav yee sang (so far) this year!    花胶竹笙菜胆汤 Double Boiled Chicken and Vegetable Soup with Bamboo Pith, Fish Maw and Sun Dried Scallops A rich and flavourful (and very healthy!) soup that really warms the soul!    山珍海味富贵鸡 Stewed Chicken with Dried Seafood and Chinese Herb Something different from normal (and sometimes dry) roast chicken.   奶皇蒜香烤生虾 Oven Baked Fresh Water Prawns with Chef’s Signature Sauce One word to describe this – DECADENT!   药膳稻香银鳕鱼 Steamed Fish Cod Fillets with Chinese Herb in Congee Sauce This was a really wonderful dish of perfectly cooked cod fillets in a flavourful (but not overpowering) sauce!   碧绿锅塔伴鲍鱼 Braised Abalone 5 Head, Dried Seafood Cake and Fatt Choy with Green Vegetable   柚子冰糕香茅冻 Chilled Lemon Grass Jelly with Yuzu Sorbet 鱼跃龙门年年糕 Steamed Golden Fish Chinese New Year Cake with Grated Coconut A sweet end to the meal with steamed nian gao “fishes” swimming among the grated coconut. Top marks for presentation!     Ti Chen is located at: The Saujana Hotel, Saujana Resort, Jalan Lapangan Terbang SAAS, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia.   For details of the Chinese New Year promotion or to book online, head over to http://www.saujanahotels.com – promotions, or call (603) 7843 1234 ext. 6122, or email dine@thesaujana.com Website: https://www.saujanahotels.com/dining/ti-chen    Thanks for having us over!    The photos above were shot using the OPPO Reno2 and are completely unedited.    . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/05/15/fashion-news-may-2018/

Fashion News – May 2018

[Luxury Fashion] Natasha Poly wore Atelier Versace on 14 May 2018 at the 71st annual Cannes Film Festival. The model was stunning in a long sleeves lilac silk chiffon Atelier Versace SS18 gown with Swarovski crystal embellishments and thigh high slits. She finished her look with a silver metallic clutch and a pair of silver Versace sandals.      Irina Shayk also wore Atelier Versace on 10 May 2018 in also the 71st annual Cannes Film Festival. The model was stunning in a red custom Atelier Versace gown featuring cut out details held together by gold chains with Medusa studs. She accessorized her look with gold Versace sandals.    Kaia Gerber was spotted wearing a dress and sandals from the Versace Spring Summer 2018 Tribute Collection on 2 May 2018 in Berlin, Germany. The model wore a black silk mini dress with straps enriched by Medusa studs and side cut outs. She finished her look with a pair of black leather sandals with gold Medusa studs.    The irrepressible Kim Kardashian West was spotted wearing Versace on 8 May 2018 at a dinner hosted by The Business of Fashion in New York city, The star was radiant in a Vintage Versace yellow ensemble enriched with a corseted silk top. She finished her look with a pair of Versace yellow sandals and gold chain bracelet.    Priyanka Chopra, who starred alongside The Rock aka Dwayne Johnson in Baywatch recently, was spotted with a Versace bag on 26 April 2018. The actress was spotted out and about in New York carrying her white Icon bag from the Spring-Summer 2018 Tribute collection.    At the Versace Met Gala After Party on 8 May 2018, there were quite a number of prominent celebrities wearing Versace including songstress Katy Perry, Chadwick Boseman (who recently stared in Marvel’s The Black Panther), Formula 1 world champion driver Lewis Hamilton, Blake Lively, Kim Kardashian West, Ashley Graham, Gigi Hadid, 2 Chainz, Migos, Zendaya, Mary J. Blige, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (of Transformers fame), Iman Haman, Ashley Graham, Lily Aldridge. and more!        Visuals courtesy of Versace Malaysia. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/10/12/huawei-ascend-p7-tech-specs/

Huawei Ascend P7 – Tech Specs

[Tech & Gadgets]   The nice folks over at Huawei Malaysia passed me a unit of their latest flagship model – the Huawei Ascend P7 which succeeds the outgoing P6. The P7 is an upgrade of the P6 in pretty much every department and comes with a 5-inch FHD touchscreen display with 1920 x 1080 resolution, protected by Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 in both front and rear covers. The rear cover has a metallic appearance thanks to the seven-layered rear surface treatment with a refined “spin effect” micro-pattern design,  and metal going around the top, and the sides making this phone look extremely classy indeed. The effect of this is that the phone can be a bit slippery as when you’re holding it you’re mainly holding metal and glass so I learned to hold it extra securely. The phone is 6.5mm thin, putting it among the slimmest 4G LTE smartphones in the world and is very light – about 124 grams. The Ascend P7 is powered by a 1.8GHz HiSilicon Kirin 910 quad-core processor, 2GB RAM and Android’s latest Kit Kat 4.4.2 with Emotion UI 2.3 which is quite a light UI with minimal lag. In fact, I didn’t experience any lag at all even when playing games which have a lot of graphics. Powering the device running is a 2,500mAh lithium polymer battery which is equipped with an advanced power-saving mode, making it possible for remaining 10 per cent battery life to last 24 hours on standby. The phone comes equipped with a 13MP non-spherical lens Back-illuminated sensor (BSI) rear-facing camera, with the Image Signal Processor (ISP), giving users functions that mimic those found in professional digital SLRs, including autofocus, white balance and noise reduction. To access the camera quickly, the rear camera can be activated within 1.2 seconds of double-clicking the down volume button while the device is locked making it really handy for capturing the moment. The front camera is a 8MP non-spherical lens equipped with IMAGESmart 2.0 software that has 10 level auto-facial enhancements in beauty mode. Girls just LOVE taking selfies with this phone as it automatically enhances your face – just adjust the beauty level and snap the pic. No additional editing required although you could edit it even further with the in-built camera software. No 3rd party apps needed here. The Ascend P7 is equipped with Huawei’s unique dual antenna designed to improve signal receptions and enabling unlimited media viewing with 4G LTE speeds. The Ascend P7 also uses smart network switching technology that stabilizes the connection even during weak signal reception to minimize battery drainage. The phone is available in black or white and here’s a look at both colours:   And here’s the black one:   Technical Specifications SIZE Height 139.8mm Width 68.8mm Depth 6.5mm Weight (with battery): About 124g Colours: Black / White DISPLAY Display 5.0 inch INCELL touch-sensitive screen FHD 1920 x 1080 resolution 16M colors Processor Quad-core 1.8GHz Operating System Android™ 4.4 .2 KitKat / Huawei Emotion UI 2.3 MEMORY RAM: 2GB Internal Memory: 16GB External Memory Support: Micro SD up to 64GB CONNECTIVITY Network FDD LTE: B1/B3/B7/B8/B20 UMTS: B1/ B2/B5/B8 GSM 850/900/1800/1900MHz GPS/AGPS Yes wifi_connection 802.11b/g/n SENSORS G-sensor Accelerometer Proximity & light sensor Ambient light sensor Compass CAMERA Front Side 8MP FF Rear Side 13MP AF BSI F2.0, with Flash MULTIMEDIA Audio Encoding MP3, AMR-NB, AMR-WB, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, MIDI Audio file format RA, MP3, WAV, OGG, MID, AMR, MP4, 3GP Video encoding MP4, 3GP, MPEG-4 Video file format MP4, 3GP, WMV, RM, RMVB, MPEG-4 , FLAC, RMVB User Interface: Emotion UI Battery: 2500mAh IN THE BOX Handset 1pc Battery 1pc Headset 1pc Charger 1pc USB cable 1pc Quick Start Guide 1pc Warranty Card 1pc   I’ll be uploading some photos taken with the Huawei Ascend P7 on my social media accounts: Instagram – http://instagram.com/timchew1311/ Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/timchewkc For more information, head over to www.Vmall.my Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/06/05/editors-note-june-2020/

Editor’s Note – June 2020

[Editor’s Note] Restaurants Open for Dine-In in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor (June and July 2020) This slideshow requires JavaScript. As we enter the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) phase in Malaysia, restaurants are allowed to have customers dine-in once again. I’ve compiled a list of some of the restaurants and hotels such as PRIME at Le Meridien, Iketeru at Hilton Kuala Lumpur, DC Restaurant, Bref by Darren Chin, and more that you can visit to dine-in in June and July 2020. Head over here to read the feature: https://timchew.net/2020/05/15/hotels-and-restaurants-in-kuala-lumpur-and-selangor-to-visit-in-may-june-and-july-2020/     Credible Journalism   During the Movement Control Order (MCO), and Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) in Malaysia due to the Covid-19 pandemic, I had some time to catch up on a HBO original series called “The Newsroom” that I watched but did not manage to complete a couple of years ago. The Newsroom is a 3-season series that requires a huge amount of attention to the dialogue, which is often witty and littered with dry humour, as well as intellectual discourse, among the romance and drama, set against a backdrop of real life local (USA) and global events such as the US presidential race, Occupy Wall Street movement, Boston marathon bombing, assassination of the US ambassador in Benghazi, and more. Coming from a traditional media background myself (I used to work in Mediacorp, MEASAT aka Astro, and for a couple of publishers), the series resonated with me, evoking memories of my time in traditional media. Although the series itself was set in USA and covered many real-life topics mostly in the states from 2011 to 2013, I was able to appreciate it as I often tune in to CNN, BBC, Al Jazeera or other news networks daily over breakfast. The central theme of the series was integrity and credibility in journalism, something of which the cast of the fictional media company struggled with in their quest to produce a nightly news hour that delivers the real facts to the audience. Details had to be fact-checked and vetted thoroughly before being aired, something which is integral in responsible journalism. Fast forward to today, and sadly the world has become inundated with fake news, spread by unscrupulous parties bent on personal gain/ profit whether for economical or political purposes. Right here in Malaysia, fake news is rife and used to spread racial and religious hatred for political purposes in a manner that is both divisive and inherently dangerous as it can ignite something more serious like racial riots. It’s really sad to see a multi-racial country like Malaysia, which practised togetherness and acceptance for decades since independence, descend into a cesspool of intolerance and blatant racism, where the population is unable to discern right from wrong, unable to apply their moral compass as they are blinded by racial/ religious hatred against other citizens who are of different ethnicity/ creed. I for one, will continue to speak our against abuse of power, corruption, extremism, racism and religious intolerance, and I hope that you will join me. It’s time to stand up together against the forces of evil plaguing our beloved nation. Remember – evil wins when good men do nothing.     [Updated – 25 June 2020] Recently, a Reddit user exposed the unethical practises of Malaysian trash tabloid site World of Buzz, detailing the company’s unethical practices such as plagarism, abuse of their own staff members and more. Read the original story here: https://www.reddit.com/r/malaysia/comments/hcntgu/spilling_the_tea_on_a_malaysian_news_site/ In response, the founders of World of Buzz came up with a video that totally skirted the allegations, sprinkled with some crocodile tears that really looks like a desperate attempt to gain some pity. Sincere or insincere, I will let you be the judge.     We at timchew.net and MHB Digital would like to remind all our friends and readers to always consume media that is credible and trustworthy, avoiding tabloid trash sites like World of Buzz, The Coverage, etc. etc. which either blatantly plagiarise the work of real journalists, copy paste from social media postings, or just come up with entirely fake but sensational news just to get eyeballs to their site (in the hopes that readers will click the display advertising banners). Please be a responsible consumer of media and remember. If you’re unsure of the authenticity of the article, please DO NOT SHARE IT. You may be spreading fake news. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/04/29/xiaomi-launches-the-redmi-note-5-in-malaysia/

Xiaomi Launches the Redmi Note 5 in Malaysia

[Technology News]   Xiaomi officially launched Redmi Note 5 in Malaysia on 24 April 2018 with the very affordable price of RM799 for the 3GB + 32GB variant, and RM999 for the 4GB + 64GB variant. The new Redmi Note 5 was designed to offer users amazing camera image quality and performance previously unseen in this price category, which is in line with the company’s commitment to providing the best smartphone technologies at the most amazing prices. The Redmi Note 5 comes equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 platform and has superior photography capabilities with a dual camera setup featuring a large 1.4μm-pixel sensor, AI camera effects and an LED Selfie light for its front camera. Steven Shi, Head of Xiaomi South Pacific Region said, “It gives me great pleasure to announce Redmi Note 5 here in Malaysia, a powerful device with an outstanding camera that can rival any flagship smartphone in the market. I believe that this device will be warmly welcomed by technology enthusiasts as it places more power into the hands of more consumers across the country. In addition, I’m excited to announce that Xiaomi’s plans for expansion in Malaysia include opening a store in every major city, so our products are more readily available to everyone.”    Steven Shi, Head of Xiaomi South Pacific Region introducing the new Redmi Note 5      The Redmi Note 5 comes a dual camera setup, a combination that aims to provide clearer images and faster focusing even in low light, a feature usually available only in more premium smartphones. The main 12-megapixel sensor features large 1.4μm pixels, which can capture more light and deliver better results under low-light conditions. The camera on Redmi Note 5 comes with Dual Pixel technology which is commonly used in professional dSLR cameras. Every single pixel of the main 12-megapixel sensor contains two photodiodes (semiconductor devices that can convert light into electrical current) – resulting in 24 million photodiodes in total, which is nearly 30 times more than the number of photodiodes of traditional PDAF-enabled sensors of the same resolution. This allows the sensor to measure phase differences more effectively, thus improving autofocus speed significantly. The front camera of Redmi Note 5 has a 13-megapixel sensor, complemented by an LED Selfie light. When Portrait Mode is engaged, both the front and rear cameras come with Xiaomi’s latest Beautify 4.0, which has different effects enhanced by AI calculations for a natural look. Even without a second sensor, the front camera can provide a bokeh effect in Portrait Mode thanks to its AI technology that helps to isolate the subject from the background.       The Redmi Note 5 uses Qualcomm’s latest powerful and efficient Snapdragon 636 platform based on the 14nm manufacturing process. Users will experience faster performance thanks to its Kryo 260 architecture, 1.8GHz maximum clock speed, and the Adreno 509 GPU. Compared to Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, the Snapdragon 636 has a 40 percent increase in performance while maintaining power efficiency. The Redmi Note 5 is also the first device in the Redmi family to use LPDDR4X DRAM, which is usually only available on flagship smartphones which enables apps to be run simultaneously and switched between programs more smoothly. The Redmi Note 5 has a 5.99 inch FHD+ 18:9 full screen, large 4000mAh battery and support for fast charging. Equipped with the latest MIUI 9 operating system based on Android Oreo, Redmi Note 5 also comes with full screen display gestures, which allows users to completely hide the navigation bar, for a maximized display area. The Redmi Note 5 is available in two versions in Malaysia: 3GB + 32GB and 4GB + 64GB. It is available in three colours – Lake blue, Gold, and Black. A simple and elegant TPU case will be included in the box with every Redmi Note 5. Pre-orders for Redmi Note 5 start on 25 April on Lazada, and the device can be purchased offline from our Authorised Mi Stores starting 5 May. At the event, Xiaomi also announced that it will open 6 more Authorised Mi Stores in Malaysia in May, adding on to the current 4 Authorised Mi Stores across the country. The new outlets will be located at: Dataran Pahlawan Mall, Melaka Aeon Bukit Tinggi, Klang Paradigm Mall, Johor Bahru Aman Central, Alor star, kedah Imago KK Time Square, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Sunway Carnival, Prai, Penang For more info, head over to http://blog.mi.com/en/    Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/05/24/first-look-lenovo-yoga-tablet-8/

First Look – Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8

[Tech & Gadgets]   Lenovo has been pretty aggressive in the Malaysian and international market recruiting the likes of actor Ashton Kutcher, and basketball superstar Kobe Bryant, who both are well known and instantly recognisable personalities. Recently, I had the opportunity to review the new Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8 (there’s also a 10″ version in the market) which was launched earlier this year.  As you can see in the photo above, the contents of the box are pretty much the essentials, which is good. You get the tablet (of course), the charger which uses a micro-USB slot, the quick start guide, and the basic instruction manual (the full manual can be obtained online on the Lenovo website).    Yoga – what an odd name for a tablet. That’s what I thought until I discovered the aluminium kick stand which enable the tablet to stand up by itself without the need for case. This mode is great when you have a hard and level surface and this mode is most useful when you’re watching videos and don’t need to have much interaction with the tablet.   This is the tablet in tilt mode which is great when you need to type and have the screen comfortably facing you instead of a normal tablet which is lying flat on the table/ surface.   This is the hold mode and this is where the unusual design of the Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8 comes to play. You know how when you’re reading a magazine and you roll up one side so you can hold it with one hand and have the other hand free? Well this concept is applied to the tablet and I immediately noticed that it’s much more comfortable to hold than normal flat tablets (which have the flat slate design). The unusual “spine” (which is like the spine of a book/ magazine) is put to good use containing the huge battery (Lenovo claims the tablet can be used up to 18 hours to browse the web using WiFi), the dual front facing speakers equipped with Dolby® Digital Plus enhancement, and the rear 5MP camera. I think this mode is great for reading e-books and other reading materials as it mimics what you’re already accustomed to. Also your thumb and forefinger won’t get fatigued so easily as compared to holding normal (flat) tablets.   The tablet looks pretty stylish with its polycarbonate textured back cover (which is scratch resistant) that looks like metal giving it a very premium feel, and feels smooth to the touch.   There are only two (2) physical buttons namely the power button, and the volume button which is pictured above near the 3.5mm audio jack. Next to the volume button is the mic in case you ever decide to use the tablet to make calls. I think it’s more practical to use the tablet to make Skype calls rather than normal phone calls.     The tablet booted up in seconds and this is the home screen. In fact the Android Ui has been adapted and simplified so that all the apps are actually on the home screen rather than the typical app panel. The screen is pretty sharp and the performance is enough for most users. The screen is viewable from a wide angle thanks to the in-plane switching (IPS) technology meaning that you can view it clearly and comfortably even though you’re sitting at the side and not directly in front. I will be revealing the technical specs in my next post but if you can always find out more at http://shopap.lenovo.com/my/en/tablets/lenovo/yoga/yoga-8/ The Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8 has a suggested retail price of RM999.00 and comes with a free folio case (see the photo below) to protect your tablet.     Father’s Day Specials at Impiana KLCC Hotel   Impiana KLCC Hotel is preparing a delightful hi tea buffet spread at Tonka Bean Cafe, on 15 June 2014, Sunday at 12.30pm to 4.00pm in conjunction with Father’s Day! Look out for a special selection of dishes especially prepared for the occasion including a Deluxe Selection of Sashimi with Japanese Condiments, Roasted Chicken Platter with Melon Balls, Asparagus and Chicken Slices Salad, New Potato Salad, Beef Tenderloin, Chicken Burger, Beef Ribeye, Chicken Breast, Salmon Steak, Jumbo Bratwurst, Tiger Prawns & Squid, Penne with Tomato Sauce & Chicken Sausage, Honey Glazed Sea bass with Mushroom & Leek Ragout, Marinated Chicken cooked with Mushroom and Olive, Mashed Potato with Onion Rings, Century Eggs Porridge with Shredded Chicken & Condiments, Sago and Melon in Coconut Milk, Chocolate Éclair, Assorted Fruit Tartlet and many more. Among the exciting activities for dad are: Mystery gifts for Dad 10 minutes head & shoulder massage for Dad by Swasana Spa DIY Chocolate Cigar and Edible Tie for Dad Mingling clowns and sand art station by Jelly and Frenz for the kids Live band entertainment by Harmony and Rhythm Family activities – FREE family snapshot Lucky draws Father’s Day High Tea is priced at RM78.00++ (adult) and RM39.00++ (child 6-12 years old ) Kids below 6 years old enjoy FREE meal! For dining reservations, please call 03-21471111, extension 3034 or 3035. Website : http://www.impiana.com Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/10/05/tech-news-october-2022/

Tech News – October 2022

HUAWEI Malaysia Appoints Victor Xu as New Country Director On 30 September 2022, HUAWEI Malaysia (Huawei Technologies (M) Sdn Bhd) announced the appointment of Victor Xu Jin Long as the new Country Director of HUAWEI Malaysia Consumer Company Group (BG), with responsibility for managing day-to-day business operations. Before taking the role of Country Director, Victor served as Director of Huawei Asia Pacific Device Channel Sales. He comes with a broad spectrum of experience across the industry, notably in the area of strategic business planning, establishing corporate ties and alliances, as well as improving organisational competence. In his new role, he will be in charge of managing every aspect of HUAWEI Malaysia Consumer BG’s business operations, reiterating the company’s commitment to being a top global smartphone brand, bringing high-quality products to Malaysia, and improving Malaysians’ access to a seamless, AI-powered connected life. “It is with great pleasure to be granted the mandate for this new position in Malaysia. In my current role, I am deeply committed to maintaining the wave of innovation, while ushering in the latest and greatest HUAWEI products to Malaysian fans. I look forward to supporting the consumer business group in Malaysia by providing strategic oversight through my experience in the industry.” Victor Xu Jin Long, Country Director of HUAWEI Malaysia Consumer BG “Customer centricity is the core of HUAWEI’s business philosophy. We strive to create unique experiences that other brands could not and bring people closer than ever through HUAWEI’s technologies. With that in mind, I am also glad to announce that Malaysia would be one of the first countries where the latest flagship Mate 50 series would be made available for HUAWEI fans,” Victor added. Victor began working for HUAWEI China in the Terminal Test Management Department in 2007 and has more than 15 years of expertise in the consumer electronics sector. Since then, he has risen through the ranks of HUAWEI Technologies’ leadership, eventually rising to the position of Director of China Device Channel Sales, and then Director of the Asia Pacific Device Channel Sales Management Department. Victor graduated from China’s Tianjin University. Photo credits: Respective brands . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/11/28/a-date-with-the-toyota-vios-car-review-to-sapore-italian-spanish-mediterranean-restaurant-ampang/

A Date with the Toyota Vios (Car Review) to Sapore Italian, Spanish-Mediterranean Restaurant, Ampang

[Car and Restaurant Review]   Beatrice and I decided to head over to Sapore in Ampang from Kota Damansara one sunny Saturday afternoon. With us was the latest (3rd generation) Toyota Vios which the nice folks at Toyota Malaysia passed to me to try for a couple of days. Since being introduced in 2003, the Toyota Vios has been the best-selling non-national model in Malaysia for 11 years. More than 100,000 units of the 3rd generation Toyota Vios have been sold since 2013, as customers prefer its combination of spaciousness, good fuel economy, a comfortable ride and high quality. The improved Vios 1.5GX we were in is a certified EEV (Energy Efficient Vehicle) – with fuel economy, weight and emissions criteria have been tested and approved by the Road Transport Department. The Toyota Vios 1.5GX comes with a brand new powertrain consisting of the new 2NR-FE engine and a CVT (Continuously-Variable Transmission) in place of the conventional 4-speed automatic transmission. The new 2NR-FE engine, has a 1.5-litre displacement with a DOHC 16valve cylinder head. However, where the previous engine had VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) on just the intake side, this new engine has Dual VVT-i which means that the opening/closing times of the valves on the exhaust side are also continuously variable according to driving conditions. The all-aluminium engine also uses Iridium spark plugs and the combustion chambers now have a tapered squish design to enhance the combustion process. Oil jets provide more efficient lubrication for the pistons which reduces friction, and the new enhanced engine cover reduces noise and vibration.   The new Vios 1.5GX variant has a newly designed aerokit with new 15-inch alloy wheels that are fitted with 185/60R15 tyres. The car is also equipped with projector headlamps, and daytime Running Lights (DRLs) integrated in the front bumper. With the rear seats in use, the boot volume is 506 litres. This slideshow requires JavaScript.   Toyota’s own factory testing shows that the Improved Vios with the new engine and CVT can achieve 18% better fuel economy than the previous engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission. If an owner travelled 25,000 km a year, this would mean fuel-savings of around 302 litres. Contributing to the better fuel economy is CVT which incorporates a torque converter to provide much smoother operation with less shift shocks. The computer will always maintain the transmission ratio at optimum based on driving conditions and to enhance fuel efficiency within the 0 to 100 km/h speed range (which is the most frequently used), there are more ratios available. The Vios 1.5GX has the same CVT technology in the Corolla Altis which provides an immediate response to the slightest tap on the accelerator pedal and smooth and linear acceleration. There is also the 7-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic mode where you can select pre-set ratios (in a sequential manner) by pulling or pushing on the shift lever – something I enjoyed playing with! The Vios 1.5GX comes with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) which used to be available only in more expensive models. It is an Active Safety system which helps a driver to regain control of the car if a skid occurs. A computer constantly receives data from various sensors and when it detects that the car is skidding sideways, braking forces will be automatically applied on certain wheels to create a counteracting force. In this way, the skidding will be stopped and the driver will be able to maintain control to safely drive around the corner. Other Active Safety systems include ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). For extra stopping power, the Vios 1.5GX comes with rear disc brakes. In terms of Passive Safety, there’s the computer-engineered impact-absorbing body structure with high tensile steel used in many areas. The front of this strong structure is designed to absorb and dissipate the impact forces of a collision so that they do not reach the cabin and cause injuries to the occupants. There are SRS airbags for the driver and front passenger, a collapsible steering column, and a knee brace below the dashboard which will prevent the driver’s legs from being injured in the event of a frontal collision. All three rear passengers have 3-point seatbelts, and there are ISOFIX points for compatible child seats. Various sections of the cabin, including the ceiling, have been fitted with impact absorbing materials.   The upholstery is perforated two-tone (black & saddle tan) leather with a new cubic print trim design with a metal hairline pattern. The reverse camera makes reversing much easier and safer, while the Smart Entry System makes locking/ unlocking the car very convenient. The audio system in the Vios 1.5GX is a 2-DIN head unit with a large 6.8-inch touchscreen and a DVD player with connectivity options such as AUX and USB ports as well as Bluetooth, with control switches available on the steering wheel.   Other standard equipment includes power retractable door mirrors with integrated turn indicators, rear centre armrest and acoustic glass for the windscreen and side windows to lower noise transmission for a quieter cabin ambience. The car comes with Toyota Premium Security & Solar Film developed and manufactured using nanotechnology methods, fully complies with JPJ regulations and is certified by PUSPAKOM. Besides providing protection from the harmful and uncomfortable infrared rays of the sun, the film also includes a security layer to delay grass breakage. The Vios 1.5GX comes with a 5-year Warranty with Unlimited mileage, and is priced at RM 92,800.00 (On-The-Road Price for Peninsular Malaysia including GST with Insurance).       Sapore is an Italian, Spanish-Mediterranean Restaurant located at Ampang. Sapore means flavours in Italian, and the establishment serves authentic Italian and Spanish cuisine. The restaurant’s main specialities include imported quality Jamon Iberico, cold cut Charcuterie, Antipasti Tagliere, various cheese selection, hot and cold tapas, classic Italian Bruschetta bread, and more. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Fabio Ruggiero who hails from Bari, the capital city of southern Italy’s Puglia region. Chef Fabio graduated from the Professional Institute of Hospitality, Molfetta (BA) Italy in 2006. From 2006 till 2012, Chef Fabio Ruggiero worked as a Chef de Partie at  5-stars hotels and some of the best restaurants worldwide, such as Relais La Suvera & Hotel Caruso, Hotel Eden (*1 Michelin Stars) in Italy and (Getti Restaurant) London. Chef Fabio was also the Assistant Head Chef at Marini’s on 57 from 2012 to 2016, before deciding to open Sapore.   The interior is kept simple with dark wood furniture and tables set reasonably far apart so the next table won’t eavesdrop on your conversation Some refreshing drinks to start lunch! Red sangria Prosciutto di Parma ham Known as the King of Hams. it is a time-honoured classic imported only from Italy, where the pigs are humanely raised, carefully chosen and cured naturally. With only four ingredients, specially-bred pork, sea salt, Italian air, and time, Prosciutto di Parma is 100% natural and does not include harmful ingredients like nitrates. This was absolutely delicious! Went well on its own or with the warm bread. Lardo di colonnata (Flavoured tuscany pork lard) The art of Italian cured meat, lardo is about richness, and the creamy texture of fat and succulence. Yes I know what you’re thinking… lard? Yes! Eat this with the complimentary warm crusty bread in place of butter! Delicious! Also, new research has shown that pork fat aka lard is the healthiest animal fat!   Spaghetti Carbonara with Eggs Yolk, Guanciale Ham & Pecorino – RM29 Authentic taste of carbonara (unlike the versions found in Malaysia), Sapore uses Guanciale Ham, the cheek meat of the pig, as it provides the flavours to make the pasta carbonara more outstanding. The Guanciale ham is marinated with black pepper, salt, thyme, and dry fennel. The Guanciale ham marination time takes around 3 to 4 months before the meat can be used. An important ingredient for pasta carbonara is the eggs, and Sapore only the eggs yolk because the egg yolk gives more colours to the pasta presentation and the amalgamation (a result of combining) is better because eggs are a natural protein source. Sapore does not cook the pasta using cream, rather using Pecorino Romano (a very hard cheese from Italy combined with the natural salt that was made out from the sheep’s milk). This was pasta carbonara that was made in the authentic Italian style, not the drenched in runny sauce stuff we get here that’s passed off as a pasta dish. As someone who really loves cheese, this dish was heaven for me! The saltiness of the Guanciale ham matched the creamy cheesy pasta sauce perfectly, balancing it nicely! Share this one though as it can be quite rich (even though there’s no cream)!   Button Mushrooms with Blue Cheese This tapas went well with the breads, and was not too overwhelming as you might expect with the inclusion of the blue cheese. In fact, it was nice and creamy with the earthy flavours of the mushrooms being the highlight rather than the blue cheese. Escargots Cooked with creamy cheese and garlic. Deliciously creamy and cheesy escargots made this a very hearty dish indeed! Share this one though! Tuna Tartar with Avocado Guacamole Refreshing and creamy all in one bite! Spanish Omelette A breakfast/ brunch staple which is very filling! Tiramisu with Coffee & Marsala A dessert made of layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and a rich, velvety mascarpone cream, with the sweet red wine and marsala. An incredibly decadent end to a fabulous meal! Beatrice really like this! Vanilla Crème Brûlée A smooth and creamy custard with a burst of lime citrus. Oh my! Another very decadent dessert! A classic French dessert perfectly executed and given a slight twist of flavours with the addition of the green lime!   Sapore is indeed a very good value for money restaurant and ideal for lunch, dinner, and even private events! Check out some of their on-going promotions:   Sapore is located at: 18, Persiaran Ampang, Desa Pahlawan, 55000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Website: https://sapore18my.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saporemy/ Insider tip – Head over here for their promotions and specials – https://sapore18my.com/whatsgoingon/special-deals/   Us with Chef Fabio Ruggiero. Thanks for having us!     Did something a little different this time and also shot the car at night. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...