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https://timchew.net/2014/01/16/lenovo-vibe-x-launch-150114/

Lenovo Vibe X Launch 150114

[Tech & Gadgets] It seems that I go to The Roof at First Avenue Bandar Utama almost every week since its opening and this trend continued with me heading over on 15 January 2014 for the launch of the Lenovo Vibe X smartphone which is the latest addition to Lenovo’s PC Plus portfolio (PC Plus is a term Lenovo uses to describe the connected environment, including tablets and smartphones). Lenovo’s Vibe series is a showcase of the company’s capabilities in smartphones and advancement in their PC Plus category with this new 6.9mm thin and 121g light Vibe X smartphone that comes equipped with a 13MP front and a 5MP wide-angle rear camera, and a high-resolution beveled edge glass display. “Lenovo continues to bring head-turning innovations to the PC Plus marketplace with the Lenovo Vibe X smartphone’s uncompromising hardware design, its rich display and memory-making camera technologies,” said Khoo Hung Chuan, Country General Manager, Lenovo Malaysia. Khoo also shared that Lenovo’s “protect and attack” strategy in driving business momentum is proving to be the right strategy for the mobile and consumer-focused PC Plus era. The current trend allows Lenovo to protect their PCs as their core revenue generator, while bringing innovation to capture a larger share of the smartphone and tablet market. This has enabled Lenovo to be 3rd in the smartphone market in 2013 after Apple and Samsung. .   . The Vibe X has a premium look and feel with the laser-engraved fabric-feel surface on the back cover, and side chrome accents. The Lenovo Vibe X smartphone comes encased in a slim, featherweight frame while it’s HD five-inch 20/20 Vision Display and IPS panel sits under a scratch resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 screen for the extra impact protection. The Lenovo Vibe X’s front-facing camera offers one of the highest megapixels in the market today, at five megapixel (MP), and together with a wide-angle 84° lens, to allow you to capture high-quality self-portraits, and even selfies with two or more people if you’re good. It also includes a built-in software editor to help enhance facial features – something I’m sure female users will appreciate a lot. The 13MP auto-focus rear-facing camera comes with a back-illuminated sensor for sharper images and also has an LED flash. There is also a full-featured photo application that gives users a new way to view and organize pictures, including creating unique custom tags or folders, as well as fun and fresh display arrangements on the screen. The camera application makes it easy to choose custom settings and filters, as well as edit and share any photo or video instantly. The phone is equipped with the Android™ 4.2 operating system and a Quad-Core MTK 6589T 1.5GHz processor, offering fast performance for apps and games. The Lenovo Vibe X comes preloaded with custom Lenovo applications that allow users to conveniently share photos, videos, and documents, protect your device from malicious software, as well as backup and restore important data. There is also a special Facebook app enhanced with additional screensaver and notification functions for those who are hooked on social media. .   . Product Specs Processor: MTK 6589w 1.5GHz Quad-Core Processor Graphics: PowerVR SGX544 graphics Size: 144 x 74 x 6.9 (mm) Weight: 121g (0.26 lbs) Display: Capacitive touchscreen, 5.0” Full HD IPS, 20/20 Vision Display with 1920×1080 pixels (441PPI) Camera: Rear: 13MP auto focus with LED flash; Front: 5MP fixed-focus SIM: Single- Micro SIM Memory: RAM: 2GB RAM Storage: 16 GB eMMC (no expandable memory card slot) OS: Android™ 4.2 Jelly Bean Battery: Li-Polymer 2000 mAh (embedded) Standby: 12 days active standby; Talk Time: 16 hours non-stop talk time (2G), 10 hours (3G) Colour: Silver (another colour will be available soon) The Lenovo Vibe X is available now at a recommended retail price of RM1,299.00 More info at http://www.lenovo.com/my/en/ . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/12/01/editors-note-december-2019/

Editor’s Note – December 2019

[Editor’s Note] Chopard Alpine Eagle Cocktail and Preview   Janet and I recently attended the Chopard Alpine Eagle cocktail at the Chopard boutique in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. The new Alpine Eagle sports chic timepiece collection is a contemporary, refined and assertive, state-of-the-art reinterpretation of the St. Moritz, the first watch created in 1980 by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, now co-president of Chopard. Imagined and personally designed by him, Alpine Eagle is driven by his passion for the Alps and by the lofty power of the eagle that reigns supreme there. Crafted from an exclusive, ultra-resistant and light-reflecting metal named Lucent Steel A223, it beats to the rhythm of a Chopard chronometer-certified movement. Bearing testament to Chopard’s ethical approach, Alpine Eagle gives the Maison an opportunity to reveal its new commitment to protecting the Alpine environment through the launch of the Eagle Wings Foundation – of which Karl-Friedrich Scheufele is founding member. Alpine Eagle is dedicated to contemporary eagles, the aspiring men who outperform in their daily lives and whose vision inspires and elevates. With foresight and determination, they act on the challenges of tomorrow and are innately aware of the importance of environmental issues.    Janet and me with Jean-Baptiste from Pernod Ricard Malaysia DJ Ashley Lau (Jane Chuck AKA Chuckei’s sister) on the decks providing the tunes for the night   The Chopard boutique in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is located at: Lot 2.24 and 3.26 Levels 2&3, Pavillon Kuala Lumpur, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: +60 (3) 2145 3611 /-4611     Oris x Balvenie Whisky Tasting Presentation by Tee Shook Yee of Oris Malaysia   We recently attended the Oris x Balvenie whisky tasting in conjunction with Kingsleeve’s anniversary at APW in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. The session began with an introduction to the world of Oris as well as their latest timepiece. This was followed by a whisky tasting led by James Cordiner, the Balvenie’s Southeast Asia brand ambassador. The Balvenie is owned by William Grant & Sons, which also owns notable brands like Glenfiddich, Monkey Shoulder, and Hendrick’s gin (and many more!). The Balvenie is a range of single malt whiskies crafted by Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE. The Balvenie is unique among single malts, with their whisky-making process dedicated to maintaining the Five Rare Crafts. As such, they are the only distillery in Scotland that still grows its own barley, uses traditional floor maltings and keeps both a coppersmith and a team of coopers on site.    James Cordiner, the Balvenie’s Southeast Asia brand ambassador Thanks for having us over!   For more info on The Balvenie, head over to https://www.thebalvenie.com/ . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/01/04/burberry-releases-its-first-chinese-new-year-campaign/

Burberry Releases its First Chinese New Year Campaign

[Fashion News]    Burberry unveiled its new Chinese New Year campaign on 3 January 2019 – celebrating family traditions and togetherness during the festive period. The campaign was shot and directed by photographer Ethan James Green, stars Chinese actresses and Burberry brand ambassadors Zhao Wei and Zhou Dongyu, who make their Burberry campaign debut. Inspired by classic portraiture, the campaign is reimagined in an informal urban environment, juxtaposing the old and the new, the traditional and the contemporary. The campaign features classic Burberry pieces including archive-print scarves, the trench coat and tailoring, contrasting with urban staples including hoodies, t-shirts and joggers, all of which will be available globally online and in-store from today. “The campaign draws on the concept of families reuniting for the most important holiday of the year, and represents a sense of belonging, but in a very fresh way. It was great fun being back on set with Zhou Dongyu – I enjoyed it very much!” – Zhao Wei “A family portrait is a very simple concept, but the ceremonial sense behind it holds so much more. For me, being able to go home once a year to spend quality time with my family is something I value above all else, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” – Zhou Dongyu    Zhao Wei wearing a sleeveless keyhole detail top, reissued Society-print silk scarf and gold-plated link drop earrings. Zhou Dongyu wearing a Vintage check wool jacket with palladium plated link drop earrings. Zhao Wei wearing a sleeveless keyhole detail top with a round buckle leather belt and reissued Society-print silk scarf. Zhou Dongyu wearing a Vintage check wool jacket. Zhao Wei wearing a sleeveless keyhole detail top with a round buckle leather belt, a reissued Society-print silk scarf and gold-plated link drop earrings. Zhou Dongyu wearing a Vintage check wool jacket with palladium plated link drop earrings.    Burberry stores in Malaysia are located at Suria KLCC, The Gardens Mid Valley and in Parkson Pavilion. More info at http://www.burberry.com/ All images courtesy of Burberry / Ethan James Green. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/12/10/dior-boutique-officially-launched-in-suria-klcc/

Dior Boutique Officially Launched in Suria KLCC

[Luxury Fashion]   MHB’s Managing Editor Tim Chew and member Nicole Fu headed over to Suria KLCC on 1 December 2016 for the official launch of the new Dior boutique which is the House’s second in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The new boutique, which has a prime location in Kuala Lumpur’s iconic Suria KLCC mall, has been designed to reflect the legendary elegance and modernity of the world of Dior. The boutique takes inspirations from the original Paris flagship on Avenue Montaigne, and provides a sleek and open environment. The store houses women’s ready-to-wear, accessories, shoes, a special area for handbags, and the quintessential dedicated VIP area and fitting room. The decor features lustrous, monochromatic details, dramatic accents of chrome and glass and sumptuous furnishings, reflecting the timeless elegance of Dior within a modern and extremely sophisticated setting. A number of specially-chosen art pieces from prominent international artists can be viewed in Dior KLCC – as Christian Dior was a patron of the arts. The ready-to-wear area, with its cabochon floor, is the perfect home for the hurricane mirror by Fredrikson Stallard as well as a cityscape credenza by the eminent American artist Paul Evans and a stool by Thierry Lemaire. The artist Oyoram created a video installation specifically for the new location.     Lots of celebrities and socialites attended the glitzy launch! Sarah Lian Venice Min With Pearl, Nicole and Bangsarbabe and husband Rif With Datin Sri Joey Low With Kathy Tan   The Dior boutique in Suria KLCC is located at: LC-G01& G23b, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Opening Hours: Monday To Sunday (10:00am To 10:00pm) Photo credits: Dior Malaysia and author’s own Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/10/09/migf-2015-qba-at-the-westin-kuala-lumpur/

MIGF 2015 Review – Qba at The Westin Kuala Lumpur

[MIGF Special] The entrance to Qba   Pearl and I headed over to Qba at The Westin Kuala Lumpur to try their special Malaysia International Gourmet Festival (MIGF) 2015 menu.  Now Qba has been around for some years now and it was previously one of the happening spots where Latin dance enthusiasts would congregate for some wine and dancing. Obviously as I’m not much of a dancer, I decided to come try their special MIGF menu instead which was prepared by the restaurant’s culinary team together with Director of Kitchens, Chef Rudy Junaidie featuring a special 4-course menu that highlights the essence of Latin American cuisine through traditional ingredients in seductive modern presentations. Qba Latin Bar & Grill consists of a Wine Bar & Cigar Lounge, a Latin Grill dining room, an Island Bar and an Alfresco dining area, steeped in Havana culture. With a Latino inspiration, Qba presents distinctive Cuban gastronomic experiences with fresh ingredients and rustic flavours, matched with a wide variety of rum blends and South American fine wines. The restaurant’s interior features charming Havana architecture, pre-Castro nostalgic fittings which are complemented by live Latin rhythms.  Chef Rudy Junaidie has enjoyed a long and prosperous career with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, with roles dating back to 1995 when he started with Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort as Executive Sous Chef before taking over as Executive Chef. He then spent three years as Assistant Director of Kitchens at The Westin Kuala Lumpur, where he was a crucial member of the pre-opening team. His next challenge was Director of Food & Beverage at Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers, before returning to the kitchen – where his true passion lies – at The Westin Kuala Lumpur for a further four years and then two years with Sheraton Macao Hotel, the Starwood Hotels & Resorts largest global property.  With an impressive 20 years of extensive exposure and experience across various regions, Chef Junaidie now helms the culinary team as the Director of Kitchens of The Westin Kuala Lumpur. Throughout his career, Chef Junaidie has competed in numerous Malaysian and international culinary competitions, often as Team Leader, achieving great success personally and as a team. Other career highlights include representing the Malaysia National Culinary Team in the World Cup Culinary Competition in Luxembourg and Singapore Salon Culinaire in 2002. The bar at the lounge upstairs The cigar lounge has some comfy sofas The dining area upstairs Complimentary bread served with butter and a tomato spread On to the special MIGF menu at Qba GAMBAS DE SUDAMERICA aka “qwehli prawns duet” quinoa crusted on Peruvian causa, calamansi cured on chunky avocado-corn salsa Paired with the Miguel Torres Santa Digna Estelado Rose Cava Essentially prawns done two (2) ways – the first being a lovely fresh prawn and the other with a quinoa crust. Both were lovely and we ate them with the creamy salsa and sweet potato puree which added even more sweetness to the dish! The quinoa crusted prawn was quite interesting as the quinoa crust gave it a nice and crispy texture! The way to eat this dish is from the bottom to the top! The cava was refreshing, dry and with a hint of sweetness and notes of fruits and citrus. Went so well with the prawns while the fine and persistent bubbles refreshed the palate with every sip.      FIDEO A LO MACHO aka “rocoto seafood chowder” cod, scallop, razor clams, assorted seaweed with homemade squid ink fettucine The chowder was nice and light and not the creamy and heavy type which is usually quite fattening! We were pleased to see a lot of seafood inside the pot before the broth was poured in. Flavourful and not cloyingly rich, this was a nice and hearty dish that went well with the cava that is also paired with the appetizer. Seafood and cava – what a beautiful combination indeed!     SOURSOP SORBET (Palate Cleanser) I don’t normally say much about palate cleansers but this one was so addictive that I pretty much finished it! The tart flavours totally refreshed the mouth and got us ready for the main course.    SALMOTENE aka “red mullet with edible crystals” “Pedro Ximenez” beet emulsion, braised fennel Paired with the Miguel Torres Cordillera Chardonnay A beautifully cooked and delicate fish that went well with the citrus notes of the berries. The Chardonnay had a fresh and fruity aroma with dominant notes of peach, white plum, and grapefruit, with touches of toasted hazelnuts and paired well with the delicate fish. OR PABELLON LATINO aka “beef eye fillet” With stuffed hearts of palm, “sofrito” choron, “wagyu cheek slow cooked in carmenere” with golden beets, artichoke chips Paired with the Miguel Torres Cordillera Carmenere This was my favourite dish of the night. A gorgeous and tender fillet and a 48 hour sous-vide wagyu beef cheek which literally melts in the mouth. Both were just bursting with flavour and really…I didn’t quite bother with anything else on the plate besides the beef. They were simply so so awesome! I must come back to Qba to try their steaks another day. If you eat beef, do yourself a favour and order this main. It’s not that the fish is not delicious, but this beef is just heavenly! The Carmenere is a wine that expresses the character of the Carmenère varietal with hints of forest fruits, eucalyptus, and leather, with notes of torrefaction – laurel and clove – licorice and black pepper. Matched the awesome beef well and added another dimension in flavours.       TARTA DE MANJAR BLANCO dulce de leche & oreo cookies cake with caramel ice cream Paired with the Torres Floralis Moscatel Oro This creative dessert is meant to portray the planets in our solar system in line with this year’s MIGF theme of “Galactic Chefs”. I’m not much of a dessert person but I finished up the whole thing (much to my own amazement). It was the combination of ice cream, caramel, oreo cookies and chocolate that made this one irresistible dessert. The Moscated is a sweet dessert wine with aromas of orange blossom, Turkish delight and honeyed fruit, accompanied by delicious spicy notes of tobacco leaf and clove. A nice pairing with the dessert but you can’t drink much of it because it’s so sweet!       The special MIGF 2015 menu at Qba runs throughout October 2015, and is priced at RM220.00 nett (without wines) or RM380.00 nett (with wines).   Pearl with Chef Jasper Chow who led the culinary team to prepare the lovely MIGF meal for us that night Chef Jasper Chow started his culinary career in Dubai at a young age in the butchery of The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi. His passion for food and his natural culinary talent soon saw him advanced as a Commis in the award-winning restaurant Tang of Le Meridien Mina Seyahi. Under the guidance of Tang’s Executive Chef Stephane Buchholzer, Jasper was trained in the conventions of molecular cuisine for fine French dining. Chef Jasper’s spent six (6) years working for various renowned restaurants and 5-star hotels, before returning to Malaysia to become the Junior Sous Chef in Qba Bar & Grill of The Westin Kuala Lumpur. He is excited to be able to work with new ingredients and spices making Cuban and Latin American food, applying his experience and unique cooking techniques to this very down-to-earth and traditional cuisine.      Qba is a really romantic spot to bring your date to and if you have a special occasion to celebrate in October, you might as well take advantage of the MIGF menu at Qba to have an unforgettable dining experience.   Qba Latin Bar & Grill is located at: Lower Ground 1 & 2, The Westin Kuala Lumpur  199, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: +603 2773 8338              Website: http://www.westindining.com.my/qba Email: westindining@westin.com Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday (5.00pm – 1.00am) Friday to Saturday (5.00pm – 2.00am) Closed on Sundays   Photos shot with the Leica C. Read more about it at https://timchew.net/2013/11/19/leica-c-launch-with-malaysias-hottest-bloggers/ Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/11/12/gifts-ideas-for-her-hermes-hermesistible/

Gifts Ideas for Her – Hermes hermesistible

[Fashion]    Hermèsistible is a new fr-adjective to describe the irresistible side of Hermès, with tales of jewellery and accessories from the autumn-winter 2015 collection which is available for viewing online at www.hermes.com/hermesistible Hermèsistible is an illustrated dictionary of moods – a moment of fleeting jealousy, a creative idleness, a gentle dash of madness, or an impulsive desire to pack your bags, without being able to articulate exactly how you feel? “Jalousele”, “Aparesse”, “Follitude”, “Escapitude”, “Impulcie”… Jewellery and accessories set the tone for the sketches in this ’emotionary’. Everyday life takes on new meaning in these short stories made up of photographs, films or gifs – a modern day cartoon strip to share and relate to.  Enamel, leather, wood, the stuff of new dreams, in the form of bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, take centre-stage in a collection of short, funny, quirky and quasi-cinematographic stories.        For more info, head over to  http://www.hermes.com/hermesistible Photo credits: Hermes Malaysia Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/10/10/luminox-commando-frogman-3300-series/

Luminox Commando Frogman 3300 Series

[Timepieces]     The new Commando Frogman from Luminox is inspired by the intrepid military divers using this moniker and built as a dedicated diving watch. The Frogman is the nickname for combat divers, which comes from their frog kick swim style. Being the most versatile divers in the military, they carry out a variety of missions, such as waterborne recognitions, sabotage of targets on or under the water, as well as amphibious combat assault. Named after these skilled and fearless divers, the Commando Frogman is designed to mimic their extreme versatility to be a trusted companion to anyone looking for a timepiece that can perform in any situations. Luminox collaborated with Andrea Micheli, military and law enforcement expert, who helped create the Luminox Recon Line, to create the Commando Frogman 3300 Series. This series targets military personnel, police and commercial divers. It is also perfect for outdoor enthusiasts because of its ruggedness that is enough to withstand just about anything. The uni-directional “Dive Time” bezel of the Commando Frogman is capable of displaying how much time you have left underwater and has a no-decompression scale, so you can calculate how much time you can spend at what depth without having to decompress.     With a diameter of 46mm, the Commando Frogman comes in a Carbonox™ case that is water resistant up to 200 meters, battleship grey dial, Navy-style numerals and a military time scale. Carbonox™ is a carbon-based material exclusive to Luminox – light, hypoallergenic and extremely durable and resistant. The most tactical watch in the Luminox range, the Commando Frogman comes complete with a Commando compass marking on the stainless-steel screw down case back, Luminox Light Technology (LLT) throughout, including one LLT on the bezel, and it is lightweight and extremely comfortable. The LLTs guarantee ultimate night vision for up to 25 years through their use of tritium tubes. Unlike other luminosity systems, which depend on exterior light sources to charge luminous paint or a pushbutton to illuminate the watch, the luminosity is built right into Luminox watches, ensuring that you will always be able to see the time under any circumstances. The Luminox Commando Frogman 3301 is priced at RM 2,635.00     Commando Frogman 3300 Series – Main product features 46mm TimeDate Ronda 715 Li Lithium battery, 96 months autonomy 20ATM CARBONOX™ case, uni-directional turning bezel with alu ring Sapphire with Anti Reflective coating Stainless steel screwed crown Stainless steel case back screwed in Genuine rubber strap Swiss Made   Luminox watches can be purchased online at: https://www.luminox.com.sg/ Luminox watches are also available at the following departmental stores and other leading watch retailers. Parkson at Pavilion Level 3, Pavilion, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur Parkson at Sunway Velocity G-16, Ground Floor, Sunway Velocity Mall, 55100 Kuala Lumpur SOGO Kompleks SOGO, 3D Fashion Arena, 190, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman 50100 Kuala Lumpur SOGO Central i-City, Unit G-01, No 1, i-City, Persiaran Multimedia, Seksyen 7, 40000 Shah Alam   For further information and the full list of authorised watch retailers, call Crystal Time (M) Sdn Bhd at +603 2938 3938 or head over to http://www.crystaltime.com.sg You can also follow Luminox Malaysia on social media at http://www.facebook.com/LuminoxMalaysiaBrunei or http://www.instagram.com/luminoxmy Visuals courtesy of Crystal Time. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/08/15/editors-note-august-2019/

Editor’s Note – August 2019

[Editor’s Note] London Essence Tonic Water Cocktail at Bar Trigona, Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur   We recently headed over to Bar Trigona at Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur for the London Essense cocktail. The London Essense is a new premium flavoured tonic water that’s imported and distributed in Malaysia by HRZ Beverages.       Chuanxi Bazi Hot Pot at Sunway Velocity   We headed over to the “hot pot/ ma lat central” of Malaysia which is at Sunway Velocity in Kuala Lumpur in search of a good hot pot for dinner. We tried the newly opened (and the very first!) Chuanxi Bazi flagship store outside China. Chuanxi Bazi started out 17 years ago in China, operating out of a modest 3,000 sq ft shoplot in Chengdu. Today, it has nearly 300 stores nationwide, and is one of the top hotpot restaurant chains in China. Founded by Master Chef Hu Jianqing, Chuanxi Bazi is recognised as the official “Chinese Hot Pot” brand by the China Cuisine Association (CCA). The restaurant’s core values make it different from the rest — as the word “family” lies at the heart of it all. For Master Chef Hu, everyone who works for the restaurant and all those who dine at the restaurant are like his own family — they always come first. As such, the restaurant aims to deliver the top-most quality standards for food and service in Chuanxi Bazi, without compromise on the authentic Sichuan Hotpot essence. Truth be told, the ma lat broth was absolutely delicious and although very spicy, didn’t leave a burning sensation on my lips (which is an unhealthy side effect of chilli oil). The ingredients were fresh while the tomato based broth (in the smaller section) was so appetising that I happily drank it towards the end of the meal. The restaurant also provides a cooling “yoghurt” which contained lots of good bacteria to settle the stomach after the spicy meal. Will definitely return for more soon!   The broth includes only natural ingredients and spices and absolutely NO recycled oil or unhealthy chilli oil.   Chuanxibazimy 川西坝子-大马店 is located at: 2nd Floor, V03A-02-02, Sunway Visio Tower, Lingkaran SV, Sunway Velocity, Jalan Cheras, Taman Maluri, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: 03-9202 3028 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chuanxibazimy/     Hardy Cognac Tasting at W Wine Warehouse Puchong   We headed over to W Wine Warehouse in Puchong on 10 August 2019 for the Hardy Cognac tasting session. Hardy Cognac hails from Cognac in France, with a heritage that dates back to 1863. Hardy Cognac is imported and distributed in Malaysia by Drinks Connexion (https://www.facebook.com/drinksconnexion/) and is also available at retails stores like W Wine Warehouse.   Francois – Hardy Cognacs brand ambassador from France led us through the tasting session   For more info, head over to http://www.hardycognac.fr/eng/home   W Wine & Liquor Warehouse is located at: 58G , Jalan OP 1/5, One Puchong Business Park, Off Jalan Puchong, 47160 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia.   Telephone: 03-8076 6188 Website: http://www.winewarehouse.com.my     Mooncakes & Drams   Headed over to Blu Bar & Cigar, Pullman KLCC on 17 August 2019 for the Drinks City KL whisky and mooncakes tasting session. The pairing featured four (4) types of handmade mooncakes handmade by Chef Jeffrey of Red Chinese Cuisine in Pullman KLCC, with three (3) A.D. Rattray Single Malts – Cask Islay, Cask Orkney 18YO (Limited Edition), and Stronachie. A.D. Rattray is an independent Scotch whisky company that sources spirits and casks from all the traditional whisky regions of Scotland. The brand has a long-standing history in the blending and maturation of single malt Scotch whisky since 1868. They have perfected their art of maturing whiskies in casks that result in distinctive expressions of the respective distillery’s character.   We also got to try some rather interesting boutique whiskies!     Let’s Say NO to Racism and Extremism in the Name of Religion in Malaysia   Lately, many insidious and wicked persons and parties have been spreading racial and religious hatred in Malaysia in order to advance their own evil goals. However, there are Malaysians who refused to fall for these divisive tactics and instead have risen up and voiced their opposition by defending their fellow Malaysians. Very heartwarming especially since Merdeka Day is right around the corner. Come on Malaysians! We’re stronger together. Unity and strength in diversity!     . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/10/28/migf-2014-review-samplings-on-the-fourteenth/

MIGF 2014 Review – Samplings on the Fourteenth

[Food & Beverage – MIGF 2014 Feature] I have been to Samplings On The Fourteenth Restaurant at Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur twice in the last few years for some pretty special occasions and I was quite delighted to note that the restaurant would be participating in the Malaysia International Gourmet Festival 2014. You can read about my previous visits here: https://timchew.net/2011/10/20/fine-dine-beer-with-chef-kern-by-kronenbourg-1664/ https://timchew.net/2013/12/09/food-review-christmas-menu-at-samplings-on-the-fourteen/ Located on the fourteenth floor of Berjaya Times Square Hotel and offering a great view of the surroundings, the restaurant’s main dining room seats sixty people with two private rooms that accommodate eight and twelve guests respectively. The restaurant serves a Classic Western menu, and is helmed by Chef de Cuisine Valmurugan Subramanian who is fondly known as ‘Chef Val’ by his peers and loyal diners. Chef de cuisine Val comes with 25 years’ experience in the hotel fine dining scene with additional experience cooking in several countries from Switzerland to Vietnam. As a young apprentice in the late 1980’s, he steadily climbed his way to become the chef de cuisine of a Swiss-French inspired fine dine in an international chain of hotels over 20 years. Since joining Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur in 2010 as Chef De Cuisine, Samplings has received Awards of Excellence by the Malaysian International Gourmet Festival (MIGF) for ‘Most Outstanding Canapés of the Festival’ and ‘Most Creative Dining Experience’ in 2011 for the Festival Diners’ Choice Category; ‘Most Outstanding Main Course of the Festival’ for his slow-cooked Wagyu beef cheek dish, ‘Most Popular Restaurant’ for Taste MIGF and ‘Most Outstanding Soup of the Festival’ in 2012; and ‘Most Outstanding Wine Pairing of the Festival’ in 2013. In conjunction with Sampling’s participation in the MIGF 2014 for the fourth year in a row, Chef Val has prepared an exquisite menu for diners throughout the festival period while Vice President of the Sommelier Association of Malaysia and BUCH lecturer Ronald Binati lends his expertise pairing up some wines to complement the dishes. The restaurant is dimly lit and is quite a good place to take your partner for a romantic night out! You get to watch the chefs work in the open kitchen and enjoy a view of the surrounding areas. As it was raining cats and dogs outside, sadly our view out the window was pretty much obscured that night.   Now let’s have a look at the special MIGF 2014 menu at Samplings on the Fourteenth.   MIGF 2014 FULL FESTIVAL MENU WITH WINE PAIRING Amuse Bouche An Amuse Bouche showcasing the chef’s talents and to whet the appetite for the dishes to follow! Starter Rock Lobster Salad Fennel and basil puree, lobster gazpacho, lobster terrine, asparagus and Asian pear Sixty Drops Marlborough, Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand) Essentially lobster done three ways and I loved all the styles (I could never say no to lobster anyway!). The well-balanced and tasty gazpacho was so delicious that we took our time sipping it slowly as opposed to finishing it in one go (it was served in a shot glass). The salad was accompanied by a balsamic reduction and my focus was of course on the lobster on it which obviously went first. The interesting component of this dish was the lobster terrine (I’ve never eaten a lobster terrine before) which had a soft and jelly like texture to it but imparted lots of flavour. Went well with the asparagus while the Asian pear added some sweetness to balance out this dish.  The wine that was paired with this dish was nice, refreshing and not too dry. What a mind blowing starter indeed! Soup Chick Pea Soup Poached quail egg, broad beans and saffron oil Presentation plays a big part in F&B because we eat with our eyes before we get to taste with our mouths. For this dish Chef Val himself came to serve us, pouring the chick pea broth around the quail and mashed broad beans which formed like an island in the middle. The aroma from the saffron oil was unmistakable and we combined all the ingredients together so that every mouthful was a contrast of flavours and textures. Beautiful yet wonderfully heartwarming without being overwhelmingly rich! Perfect for a rainy evening! Hot Appetizer Smoked Duck Breast Fricassee of mushrooms with vanilla emulsion Barone Ricasoli Chianti, DOCG (Italy) One thing that both Conne and I really like is smoked duck breast. Perhaps its the savoury and earthy flavours and tender textures of a well prepared smoked duck breast, and we’re no strangers to having it during fine dining meals but this was the first time that we were having it with vanilla! The earthy smoked duck breast lay atop a fricassee of earthy mushrooms and was topped with a light vanilla emulsion which lent a fragrant aroma and just that hint of sweetness to the dish. This dish was paired with the Barone Ricasoli Chianti which was round and easy to drink with a nose of ripe fruits, which added some nice contrast against the earthy/ vanilla flavours of the dish. Sorbet Riesling Soursop The combination of the Riesling and the soursop resulted in a refreshingly sour if somewhat creamy sorbet that worked well to cleanse our palate and prepare us for the main course. Loved the presentation on the shaped ice with the LED light underneath it too!   Main Course (choice of) Chargrilled Wagyu Steak Chargrilled Wagyu Steak Braised wagyu beef cheek, bone marrow, celeriac puree, pickled apples and grapes, mache leaves, coffee sauce Ruffino Lumina, Delle Venezie IGT, Pinot Grigio (Italy) Both Conne and I opted for this one as we both love wagyu beef (and coffee). Now this dish has a lot going on with the festival of flavours and ingredients in it, and to our delight it was not some itsy bitsy piece of wagyu either! The beef cheek was so tender than it pretty much melted in the mouth. The steak was cooked medium rare for me and medium for her and both turned out very tender and juicy. The picked apples and grapes added some tartness and acidity to cut through the rich flavours while the coffee sauce had just the right hint of coffee (coffee can be very overpowering) in it.    Or Steamed Salmon Napoleon Grapefruit, saffron, squid ink pasta and salsa Verde Richard Hamilton McLaren, Cabernet Sauvignon, (Australia) (No photos of it as both Conne and I opted for the wagyu steak) *** Dessert Valrhona Chocolate Valrhona Chocolate Chocolate brownies, hazelnut mousse and passion fruit ice cream A sinful end to a very decadent meal! The dark chocolate brownie was rich and moist while the hazelnut mousse added even more richness which fortunately was cut by the passion fruit ice cream and the berries.   *** Coffee or Tea Mignardises Price: RM398.00++ per pax   A pic with Chef Val before we ended the night. He’s a really cheerful guy and happily explained his inspiration for the dishes and the MIGF 2014 menu at Samplings on the Fourteenth.   There are also two (2) more options for the MIGF 2014 menu namely:   MIGF 2014 FULL FESTIVAL MENU WITHOUT WINE PAIRING Amuse Bouche Starter Rock Lobster Salad Fennel and basil puree, lobster gazpacho, lobster terrine, asparagus and Asian pear *** Soup Chick Pea Soup Poached quail egg, broad beans and saffron oil *** Hot Appetizer Smoked Duck Breast Fricassee of mushrooms with vanilla emulsion *** Sorbet Riesling Soursop *** Main Course Chargrilled Wagyu Steak Braised wagyu beef cheek, bone marrow, celeriac puree, pickled apples and grapes, mache leaves, coffee sauce Or Steamed Salmon Napoleon Grapefruit, saffron, squid ink pasta and salsa Verde *** Dessert Valrhona Chocolate Chocolate brownies, hazelnut mousse and passion fruit ice cream *** Coffee or Tea Mignardises  Price RM198.00++ per pax and comes with a complimentary glass of wine       MIGF 2014 LIGHT FESTIVAL MENU Starter Ceviche of Scallops Poached oyster in aspic jelly, trout caviar, marinated arugula and Asian pear *** Soup Chick Pea Soup Poached quail egg, broad beans and saffron oil *** Main Course Seared Barramundi Roasted Barramundi fish with Alaskan crab, avocado puree and chipotle tomato Or Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb Rack of Lamb with goat cheese thyme crust, ratatouille and parmesan gnocchi *** Dessert Valrhona Chocolate Chocolate brownies, hazelnut mousse and passion fruit ice cream *** Coffee or Tea Mignardises Price RM158.00++ per pax   Availability of MIGF Menu October – Mondays to Saturdays November – Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays ONLY   Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur is offering a special room rate for festival diners of any of the three offered menus. Upon paying for the bill, any two diners are entitled to stay in a Superior room for RM295.00++ for one night, subject to availability. In addition, a 10 percent discount voucher is offered for the Christmas takeaway turkey by the hotel from 1 to 31 December 2014.   Samplings on the Fourteenth is located at: 14th Floor, Berjaya Times Square 1, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: +60 (3) 2117 8000 ext. 8131 Website: http://www.berjayahotel.com/kualalumpur Email: bth.samplings@berjayahotel.com Operating Hours: 6.30pm – 10.30pm (Mondays to Saturdays) Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays . . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/08/15/gift-ideas-for-her-dior-runway-bag/

Gift Ideas for Her – DIOR Runway Bag

[Luxury Fashion]   DIOR’s new “Runway” bag made its debut in the ready-to-wear Autumn-Winter 2016-2017 show recently. The new creation from DIOR comes entirely embroidered with beads and sequins, in precious skins, or bearing the emblematic Cannage motif. Its architectural, singular lines makes it a timeless design. Its short and wide strap allows for it to be worn two ways: on the shoulder giving a sense of sophisticated allure, or carried giving a relaxed look. The Runway bag is a product of the 30 Avenue Montaigne Design Studios in Paris and Italian leatherworking savoir-faire, handmade in an atelier located a few kilometers from Florence. The passionate expert artisans practice the most exacting craftsmanship, with masterful techniques such as manipulating the leather, manually constructing the handles, and assembling the bag in the traditional manner around a wooden form.      Here’s where the bags were first spotted – on the runway at the DIOR ready-to-wear Autumn-Winter 2016-2017 show.       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   For more info, head over to http://www.dior.com/ Images courtesy of Dior Malaysia. *timchew.net does not promote materialism and we believe in being industrious and ethical to achieve your goals in life. The satisfaction that you get from enjoying the fruits of your labour is worth many times more than that of receiving something for free or in exchange for some unethical or morally wrong service. So go ahead and reward yourself that new Dior bag, knowing that it’s well deserved. Let it serve as an inspiration to go further, and a statement that being professional, ethical and classy gets you far in life. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/06/16/lenovo-yoga-tablet-8-practical-applications/

Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8 – Practical Applications

[Tech & Gadgets]   I’ve decided to share with you some practical applications for the tablet, following up to my two previous posts on the Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8 which you can read here: https://timchew.net/2014/05/24/first-look-lenovo-yoga-tablet-8/ https://timchew.net/2014/06/01/lenovo-yoga-tablet-8-16gb-tech-specs/ Now in my first two posts I outlined the technical specs and some observations about the tablet. I’ve actually left out something important and that the Dolby Digital Plus DS1 which is actually pretty good especially when you plug in a good speakers or headphones. The effect with the Dolby on is very apparent compared to without Dolby. Dialogue is clearer and the surround sound is more evident making watching videos or music videos definitely a more enjoyable experience!     Now what do I use the Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8 for? 1. Reading e-books and other reading materials Because of it’s unique shape which resembles a rolled up magazine, reading e-books comes naturally to the tablet in portrait mode. This coupled with the 18 hour battery life makes the tablet a really great platform for reading. Because it is a 8″ tablet, it’s not too big and can be quite conveniently carried around.     2. Browsing through Facebook when I’m out and about Now I don’t know about you but trying to browse through Facebook on a smartphone is quite a pain. Checking out my friend’s latest updates on this tablet though is just so much more easy and comfortable without the need to squint at a 5″+ screen.     3. Keeping up with the latest news I have both the BBC and CNN apps installed and since it’s the World Cup season – also the BBC Sports app installed. In fact if I didn’t stay up late the night before to watch the matches, the first thing I do in the morning when I wake up is to check the scores on this tablet!         4. Instant messaging and Skype I have the Facebook Messenger app installed and with the tablet’s “Swipe” typing function it’s really fast to type messages. For Skype video calls, the kickstand is super useful and I can just put it on the table or a flat surface in front of me instead of holding the tablet.     5. Playing games I rarely have the time to play games but sometimes I just need a short break to relax and shoot up some enemies ha ha! The tablet handles most games without lagging so it’s a good gaming companion.       6. Checking email on the go I’m not really a fan of checking email outside however sometimes urgent and important emails need to be received/ sent when I’m on the go. This definitely beats trying to type out an email on my smartphone.   The large power button makes turning on and turning off the tablet very easy. No more fumbling and looking for a tiny button.   So what do I ultimately think of the Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8? Well it’s a really handy companion to have with me, and it really complements my lifestyle in so many ways! Can’t wait to see what other products Lenovo has in store in 2014! Stay tuned to my blog for upcoming product launches. The Lenovo Yoga Tablet 8 has a suggested retail price of RM999.00 and comes with a one (1) year warranty and a free folio case! More info at http://shopap.lenovo.com/my/en/tablets/lenovo/yoga/yoga-8/   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2012/04/25/samsung-smart-tv-launch/

Samsung Smart TV Launch

[Tech] Samsung Malaysia launched a range of futuristic SMART TV 2012 that offers consumers three highly interactive solutions in form of SMART Interaction, SMART Content and SMART Evolution on 19 April 2012 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.   Met MHB’s Yuki there trying out the features of the Smart TV A camera is mounted at the top of the screen to detect your hand movements. Yes your hand controls the cursor on the screen ie. your hand is the ‘mouse’. Cool right? The Smart TV also responds to voice commands although you must be in a relatively quiet environment for it to work properly. With SMART Content, families will enjoy enhanced content and connection abilities from device to device and web storage to device that is easy and convenient. Yes believe it or not they have a fitness app for you to workout in the privacy of your own home Already have a LCD/ LED TV? Well this Samsung DVD player will make it a Smart TV! Samsung’s home entertainment system delivers impeccable high-definition audio and Samsung’s 3D Sound Plus, with more natural, richer sound that is more harmonized. Both the home entertainment system and Blu-ray player are built-in with Wi-Fi, to provide access to web-connected entertainment as well as Samsung’s SMART Hub and Signature Apps. . Samsung’s cutting-edge SMART TV technology seeks to redefine home entertainment. SMART Interaction is an intuitive platform offering Motion Control, Voice Control, and Face Recognition commands for the TV, great for those of you who don’t like remote controls.   More info at www.samsung.com/my and www.facebook.com/samsungmalaysia. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/02/27/asahi-fmfa-pre-parties-ogalito-mediterranean-restaurant-bar-launch/

Burg Smart Watch Phone, Asahi FMFA Pre-Parties & O’Galito Restaurant & Bar Launch

[Upcoming Event] Asahi Future Music Festival Asia 2014 Pre-Parties Asahi Super Dry continues its sponsorship of Future Music Festival Asia (FMFA) coming in as the official beer partner for 2014. This time round, Asahi will be presenting the Haunted House Arena stage in this year’s festival, featuring their Super Dry AllStars. Prior to FMFA 2014 and staying true to its promise of Igniting Possibilities, Asahi Super Dry will be hosting two (2) pre-parties and rewarding Asahi fans around Malaysia for their supreme support by giving them a chance to win VIP and FMFA passes. Consumers will also get a chance to win passes at Asahi’s in-outlet contests. The coming pre-parties will take place on Friday, 28 February at Prodigy (previously Butter Factory) featuring DJ’s Ramsey Westwood, Mr Nasty & Guru Guru and Monkey & Funkzu. The following week, the second pre party will happen on Thursday, 6 March at Play at The Roof featuring DJ’s Nikki and Partners.In.Crime. More info at https://www.facebook.com/AsahiMalaysia . Burg Smart Watch Phone Launch [Event] Headed over to the launch of the Burg Smart Watch Phone at their new concept store Mad.Is.On in Bangsar Village 2 on 23 January 2014. The watch is a phone by itself (using a micro SIM) and doesn’t need to be paired with a smartphone. There are four (4) different BURG watches in four different settings namely Sports, Leisure, Corporate and Night Life. If you’re an 80’s baby you would probably remember how Michael Knight in the 80’s TV series Knight Rider used to talk to his car Kit via a watch? Well fast forward 25 years and that little gadget has become a reality! What’s more, put a micro SD card inside the Burg smart watch phone and you can store photos captured with your watch or play your fav music tracks. How cool is that? The launch was hosted by Joey G, and was graced by celebrities such as Patricia K, Pamela and Vanessa Chong (Amazing Race Asia) with their brother Vince Chong (of Akademi Fantasia), Moots from Popshuvit, and Bernie Chan.   . Burg smart watch phones are priced from RM999.00 and are available at: Mad.Is.On G27, Bangsar Village II, Jalan Telawi, 59100 Kuala Lumpur. More info at http://burgwatch.com or https://www.facebook.com/BURGMY . Photo credits: Burg Malaysia and author’s own . O’Galito Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar Launch [Event] Nadia Heng and Linora Low A new Mediterranean food outlet names O’Galito Restaurant and Bar recently opened its doors on 19 February at Pavilion KL. During the launch the restaurant proudly paraded their signature dishes from the likes of Portugal, Greece, Italy and Spain, including Italian Linguini with freshly sourced seafood, Portugese Chicken Piri-Piri, tender Braised Beef Cheeks and Tiramisu. Unfortunately I cannot tell you how they tasted as guests were only served canapes apart from the drinks. The kitchen is run by half Italian, half Spanish Chef Domenico Piras who first received his culinary diploma at the tender age of 16, and was trained by Chef Mauro Ernesto, the Godfather of Italian food who earned his world-renowned reputation by being one of the first chefs in Italy to earn a Michelin star. Since completing his intense training with the Godfather, Chef Domenico has worked around the world for personalities such as the Ranieri Family of Monaco, the President of Kazakhstan and various Italian actors and celebrities. His culinary skills have more recently brought him over to our part of the world – Brunei, Libya, Singapore and finally Malaysia. Besides the signature dishes, O’Galito also serves great pasta and pizza made in a stone oven, Spanish Tapas and is pork free. Photo courtesy of O’Galito MHB’s Kelly Siew O’Galito Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar is available for private and corporate functions, and seats 100 people comfortably, or 180 people standing. O’Galito Mediterranean Restaurant and Bar is located at: C3-05-00, Connection Level 3, Pavilion Shopping Mall, 55100, Kuala Lumpur. Email: info@ogalitokl.com . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/07/24/sony-vaio-duo-13-and-vaio-pro-1311-ultrabook/

Sony VAIO Duo 13 and VAIO Pro 13/11 Ultrabook

[Technology] Sony Malaysia announced new additions to the 2013 VAIO line-up with the introduction of VAIO® Duo 13 and VAIO® Pro 13/11 at the press launch at Aloft KL Sentral on 10 July 2013. The launch featured a new slider hybrid PC – VAIO® Duo 13 which is both a tablet and a laptop, and the ultra-portable VAIO® Pro 13/11 are designed to complement and enhance individuals’ lifestyles, and completes the 2nd quarter of 2013 VAIO line-up with the existing entertainment-centered VAIO® Fit 14. The VAIO® Duo 13 and VAIO® Pro 13/11 showcases Sony’s innovative display, digital imaging, and sound technology, as well as provides some new personal computing experiences. “Our aim with these unique new models is to provide customers with a variety of new ways to use their PCs. We have achieved this by combining powerful Sony technologies with new form factors,” said Satoshi Hatano, Director of Sony Malaysia, “We’re aiming to make devices that will enhance and enrich individuals’ lifestyles in both work and play. One example of this is the VAIO® Duo 13’s camera functionality. It has the ability to take crisp images of documents using the computer’s camera as if it were a scanner. Images are clear enough to recognize and tag text, allowing for easier, more effective and efficient searching and editing.” . Jeremy Teo from Red FM was the MC for the event After the customary speeches, the new VAIO models were introduced! Product demo of the VAIO Duo 13 which is both a tablet and an ultrabook running on Windows 8 64 bit by Sony’s Shoko Miura from Japan. The new models – VAIO Duo 13, Pro and Fit The product that caught everyone’s attention was the Sony VAIO Duo 13 – pictured here in laptop mode (left) and in the tablet mode (right). It’s able to change mode with just a slide of the LCD display In both modes you can use the digitizer stylus the operate VAIO® Duo 13 or if you prefer just use your fingers. Use whiever mode you prefer or change modes in just a second depending on the situation. There was always the issue of the tablet being the most portable but not very practical when it comes to work whereby wjhile the laptop was good for work it was a pain to carry around. Franklene showing off her “masterpiece” created with the stylus. The keyboard mode perfectly accommodates conventional PC usage such as quickly editing documents. The convenience of slate mode, combined with the efficiency of keyboard mode, creates a really versatile and practical mobile PC. The battery life is 15 hours based on MobileMark® 2007. This is equal to 18 hours in JEITA-BAT1.0, 11 hours in JEITA-BAT1.0 (a) and 10 hours in MobileMark® 2012. The actual battery run time will vary depending on the settings and usage condition. The VAIO® Duo 13 can maintain constant connection to the internet, even while in sleep mode, giving it the ability to continue updating applications and receive emails when it’s asleep. It’s also able to wake from sleep mode in less than one second eliminates the need to wait for the PC to resume. . VAIO® Duo 13’s 8 megapixel built-in rear camera featuring the “Exmor RS for PC” image sensor has made it possible to take images of documents clear enough for the computer to recognize and tag text in photos taken of documents and blackboards. This ability, combined with the “CamScanner” application, allows the VAIO® Duo 13 to be used as if it were a scanner. “CamScanner” also has the ability to straighten images of documents and photos taken at odd angles (by automaticlally adjusting the keystone); so users just need to focus on taking photos of important material instead of lining up the perfect shot. VAIO® Duo 13’s OptiContrast™ panel allows for a more accurate and natural writing experience when using the digitizer stylus. The digitizer stylus enables users to take notes in the memo taking application, “Note Anytime for VAIO,” or easily create their own works in “Active Clip” using pictures stored on their PC. You can even impress your clients by using it when giving PowerPoint presentations! The TRILUMINOS® Display for mobile allows users access to a wide palette of rich natural colors thanks to Sony’s BRAVIA expertise (tech from their TVs). This technology has made it possible to express differences in colour more accurately. It can display the subtle differences of various reds, blues, and greens, as well as emerald green. For example, TRILUMINOS® Display for mobile has the ability to reproduce the variety of reds found in a rose or blues in the sky. The full HD display combined with Sony’s super resolution technology, X-Reality™ for mobile, analyzes each image and reproduces lacking pixels to optimize quality for the sharpest videos. It analyzes elements depending on the scene and adjusts them based on pattern, outline and color composition. It strengthens subtle patterns and accurately portrays their detailed feel, as well as reinforces bold outlines. It also enhances color composition, vividly reproducing hard-to-display natural colors. But what is great picture without great sound quality and Sony ensures a complete AV experience by including the ClearAudio+ mode which was developed with Sony’s own signal processing technologies. . Product Specs DUO 13 SVD13211SG (Touch) color black & white Price 4999 Operating System Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Architecture Intel® Core™ i5-4200U Processor 1.60 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.60 GHz*1 Main Memory 4 GB (4 GB (On Board)) LPDDR3 SDRAM*2 (Max) Storage SSD: 128 GB*3 (128 GB x 1, Serial ATA) Optical Disc Drive – Graphics Intel® HD Graphics 4400 – Display 13.3 inch wide (Full HD: 1920 x 1080) TFT colour display (TRILUMINOS DISPLAY for mobile, LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive), OptiContrast™ Panel) X-Reality for mobile, Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) NFC function Yes Camera Full HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for pc” (Resolution: 1920 x 1080, Effective Pixels: 2.07 Mega pixels) 8M Camera powered by “Exmor RS for pc” (Resolution: 3264 x 2448, Effective Pixels: 7.99 Mega pixels) Audio ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, “Clear Phase”, “xLOUD”,  “VPT”, “Voice Zoom”, “Sound Optimizer”*9, Playback during sleep mode Battery Life VGP-BPS36 Lithium-ion battery: up to 11.0 hours of use*10 Size 330 x 9.2 (maximum 19.5) x 210 mm 1.325 kg (including the supplied battery) . Ultrabook™ VAIO® Pro 13/11 Jeremy and I trying out the VAIO Pro’s HD webcam which is powered by the “EXMOR R for PC” which provides a 1280 x 720 resolution. Equipped with 2x USB 3.0ports and a HDMI port The VAIO® Pro 13/11 also features a wide key pitch and stroke to allow for an extremely natural typing experience, while providing a unique palm rest that gradually merges into the desk allowing for better comfort and less strain while typing. Extremely light and portable starting from only 0.87kg and achieves this by using carbon fiber throughout the case. (Lighter than a women’s magazine!) This somehow reminds me of the 2009 Pixar movie “Up”. . The VIAO Pro 13/11 also features the TRILUMINOS® Display for mobile and ClearAudio+ mode. . Product Specs PRO SVP11216SG (Touch) SVP13213SG (Touch) SVP13218PGB (Touch) Colour Black & Silver Black & Silver Black Price 3599 3799 4999 Operating System Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Windows 8 Pro 64 bit (English Version) Architecture Intel® Core™ i5-4200U Processor 1.60 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.60 GHz*1 Intel® Core™ i5-4200U Processor 1.60 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.60 GHz*1 Intel® Core™ i7-4500U Processor 1.80 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 3.00 GHz*1 Main Memory 4 GB (4 GB (On Board)) DDR3 SDRAM*2 (Max) 4 GB (4 GB (On Board)) DDR3 SDRAM*2 (Max) 4 GB (4 GB (On Board)) DDR3 SDRAM*2 (Max) Storage SSD:128 GB*3 (128 GB x 1, Serial ATA) SSD:128 GB*3 (128 GB x 1, PCI Express x 4) SSD:256 GB*3 (256 GB x 1, PCI Express x 4) Optical Disc Drive – – – Graphics Intel® HD Graphics 4400 Intel® HD Graphics 4400 Intel® HD Graphics 4400 – – – Display 11.6 inch wide (Full HD: 1920 x 1080) TFT colour display (TRILUMINOS DISPLAY for mobile, LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive)) 13.3 inch wide (Full HD: 1920 x 1080) TFT colour display (TRILUMINOS DISPLAY for mobile, LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive)) 13.3 inch wide (Full HD: 1920 x 1080) TFT colour display (TRILUMINOS DISPLAY for mobile, LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive)) X-Reality for mobile, Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) X-Reality for mobile, Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) X-Reality for mobile, Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) NFC function Yes Yes Yes Camera HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for pc” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for pc” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for pc” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) – – – Audio ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, “Clear Phase”, “xLOUD”,  “VPT”, “Voice Zoom”, “Sound Optimizer” ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, “Clear Phase”, “xLOUD”,  “VPT”, “Voice Zoom”, “Sound Optimizer” ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, “Clear Phase”, “xLOUD”,  “VPT”, “Voice Zoom”, “Sound Optimizer” Battery Life VGP-BPS37 Lithium-ion battery: up to 7.5 hours of use*9 VGP-BPS38 Lithium-ion battery: up to 8.5 hours of use*9 VGP-BPS38 Lithium-ion battery: up to 8.5 hours of use*9 Size 285 x 13.2 (maximum 17.2) x 197 mm 322 x 12.8 (maximum 17.2) x 216 mm 322 x 12.8 (maximum 17.2) x 216 mm 0.87 kg (including the supplied battery) 1.06 kg (including the supplied battery) 1.06 kg (including the supplied battery) . VAIO Fit and Fit E The new VAIO Fit and VAIO Fit E models offer a wide range of touch-enabled notebooks to suit your needs and budget and are available in 14” screen size and is powered by Sony’s visual and audio technology. With One-touch listening, included in all of the new VAIO models, users can seamlessly transfer music playing on their VAIO to an NFC (Near Field Communication) compatible Bluetooth Speaker. Available in a variety of colours! . Product Specs FIT E SVF14212SGW SVF14217SG (Touch) SVF14218SGW SVF14219SG (Touch) SVF1421MSG Colour White Black, Pink & White White Black, Pink & White Black & Whtie Price 1999 2299 2399 2699 1599 Operating System Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Architecture Intel® Core™ i3-3217U Processor 1.80 GHz*1 Intel® Core™ i3-3227U Processor 1.90 GHz*1 Intel® Core™ i5-3337U Processor 1.80 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.70 GHz*1 Intel® Core™ i5-3337U Processor 1.80 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.70 GHz*1 Intel® Pentium® Processor 987 (1.50 GHz)*1 Main Memory 2 GB (2 GB (SO-DIMM) x 1) DDR3L SDRAM*2 (upgradeable up to 8 GB*3) 4 GB (4 GB (SO-DIMM) x 1) DDR3L SDRAM*2 (upgradeable up to 8 GB*3) 4 GB (4 GB (SO-DIMM) x 1) DDR3L SDRAM*2 (upgradeable up to 8 GB*3) 4 GB (4 GB (SO-DIMM) x 1) DDR3L SDRAM*2 (upgradeable up to 8 GB*3) 2 GB (2 GB (SO-DIMM) x 1) DDR3 SDRAM*2 (upgradeable up to 8 GB*3) Storage HDD: 500 GB*4 (Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) HDD:500 GB*4 (Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) HDD: 500 GB*4 (Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) HDD:750 GB*4 (Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) HDD:500 GB*4 (Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) Optical Disc Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive Graphics Intel® HD Graphics 4000 NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 740M with NVIDIA® Optimus™ technology / Intel® HD Graphics 4000 NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 740M with NVIDIA® Optimus™ technology / Intel® HD Graphics 4000 NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 740M with NVIDIA® Optimus™ technology / Intel® HD Graphics 4000 Intel® HD Graphics – 1 GB DDR3 1 GB DDR3 2 GB DDR3 – Display 14 inch wide (WXGA: 1366 x 768) TFT colour display (LED backlight) 14 inch wide (WXGA: 1366 x 768) TFT colour display (LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive)) 14 inch wide (WXGA: 1366 x 768) TFT colour display (LED backlight) 14 inch wide (WXGA: 1366 x 768) TFT colour display (LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive)) 14 inch wide (WXGA: 1366 x 768) TFT colour display (LED backlight) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) NFC function – Yes Yes Yes – Camera HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) – – – – – Audio ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, Clear Phase, xLOUD, VPT ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, Clear Phase, xLOUD, VPT ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, Clear Phase, xLOUD, VPT ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, Clear Phase, xLOUD, VPT ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, Clear Phase, xLOUD, VPT Battery Life VGP-BPS35A Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.0 hours of use*9 VGP-BPS35A Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.0 hours of use*9 VGP-BPS35A Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.0 hours of use*9 VGP-BPS35A Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.0 hours of use*9 VGP-BPS35A Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.0 hours of use*9 Size 342 x 24.9 x 242.5 mm 342 x 25.9 x 242.5 mm 342 x 24.9 x 242.5 mm 342 x 25.9 x 242.5 mm 342 x 24.9 x 242.5 mm 2.2 kg (including the supplied battery) 2.4 kg (including the supplied battery) 2.2 kg (including the supplied battery) 2.4 kg (including the supplied battery) 2.2 kg (including the supplied battery) Fit E SVF14219SG (Touch) SVF1421MSG Colour Black, Pink & White Black & Whtie Price 2699 1599 Operating System Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Architecture Intel® Core™ i5-3337U Processor 1.80 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.70 GHz*1 Intel® Pentium® Processor 987 (1.50 GHz)*1 Main Memory 4 GB (4 GB (SO-DIMM) x 1) DDR3L SDRAM*2 (upgradeable up to 8 GB*3) 2 GB (2 GB (SO-DIMM) x 1) DDR3 SDRAM*2 (upgradeable up to 8 GB*3) Storage HDD:750 GB*4 (Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) HDD:500 GB*4 (Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) Optical Disc Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive Graphics NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 740M with NVIDIA® Optimus™ technology / Intel® HD Graphics 4000 Intel® HD Graphics 2 GB DDR3 – Display 14 inch wide (WXGA: 1366 x 768) TFT colour display (LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive)) 14 inch wide (WXGA: 1366 x 768) TFT colour display (LED backlight) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) NFC function Yes – Camera HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) – – Audio ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, Clear Phase, xLOUD, VPT ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, Clear Phase, xLOUD, VPT Battery Life VGP-BPS35A Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.0 hours of use*9 VGP-BPS35A Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.0 hours of use*9 Size 342 x 25.9 x 242.5 mm 342 x 24.9 x 242.5 mm 2.4 kg (including the supplied battery) 2.2 kg (including the supplied battery) FIT SVF14A15SG (Touch) SVF14A16SGS (Touch) Colour Black & Silver Silver Price 3299 3999 Operating System Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Windows 8 Single Language 64 bit (English Version) Architecture Intel® Core™ i5-3337U Processor 1.80 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 2.70 GHz*1 Intel® Core™ i7-3537U Processor 2 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 3.10 GHz*1 Main Memory 4 GB (4 GB (On Board)) DDR3L SDRAM*2 (Max) 8 GB (4 GB (On Board) + 4 GB (SO-DIMM) x 1) DDR3L SDRAM*2 (Max) Storage Hybrid HDD 750 GB*3 (HDD 750 GB + NAND Flash Memory for cache 8 GB*4, Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) Hybrid HDD 750 GB*3 (HDD 750 GB + NAND Flash Memory for cache 8 GB*4, Serial ATA, 5400 rpm) Optical Disc Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive DVD SuperMulti Drive Graphics NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 735M with NVIDIA® Optimus™ technology / Intel® HD Graphics 4000 NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 735M with NVIDIA® Optimus™ technology / Intel® HD Graphics 4000 2 GB DDR3 2 GB DDR3 Display 14 inch wide (WXGA++: 1600 x 900) TFT colour display (LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive)) 14 inch wide (WXGA++: 1600 x 900) TFT colour display (LED backlight, Touch screen(Capacitive)) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) Color mode setting (Vivid, Natural, Text) NFC function Yes Yes Camera HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) HD web camera powered by “Exmor R for PC” (Resolution: 1280 x 720, Effective Pixels: 0.92 Mega pixels) – – Audio ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, ClearPhase, xLOUD, VPT ClearAudio+ mode (Music, Video), S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, ClearPhase, xLOUD, VPT Battery Life VGP-BPS34 Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.5 hours of use*10 VGP-BPS34 Lithium-ion battery: up to 4.5 hours of use*10 Size 338 x 22.1 x 235.7 mm 338 x 22.1 x 235.7 mm 2.2 kg (including the supplied battery) 2.2 kg (including the supplied battery) . Sony’s latest range does provide something for everyone no matter for work or play and it looks like this will be the next trend in mobile computing. More info at http://www.sony.com.my . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/12/02/hp-pavilion-x2-preview/

HP Pavilion X2 Preview

[Tech & Gadgets] Attended the preview of the new ultra-portable HP Pavilion x2 detachable PC on 6 November 2014 at the Pulp Cafe in Bangsar. The new X2 is designed for users who want to simplify their life with a single device that transforms from tablet to laptop. Simply put – people who want a single very portable and capable device for work and play. The HP Pavilion x2 is a full-featured 10-inch diagonal Windows tablet that easily transforms to a full-featured laptop and comes with a detachable dual-purpose keyboard/cover that both protects the screen and serves as a multi-position stand. The HP Pavilion x2 is a portable, and affordable 2-in-1 PC powered by the latest-generation Intel Atom® processor, and features front-facing speakers with DTS sound and a battery that HP claims can last up to 11.45 hours on a single charge. “Customers have told us they want devices that offer flexibility and performance while reflecting their personal sense of style,” said Serena Yong, General Manager, Printing & Personal Systems, HP Singapore and Malaysia. “The HP Pavilion x2 includes innovative designs, vibrant colors, choice of operating system and computing power to enable the way that customers communicate, play and live.”   Technical Specifications: Processor: Intel® Atom™ processor Z3745D Operating System: Windows 8.1 64 RAM: 2 GB 1333 MHz DDR3L SDRAM Memory: 32 GB eMMC Storage Graphics: Intel® HD Graphics (1.33 GHz, 2 MB cache, 4 cores) Screen: 10.1” diagonal HD2 antiglare touchscreen Colours: Moonstone Grey Tiffany Blue Other features: Detachable keyboard for built-in comfort and adjustable cover Ultra slim and light design Adjustable stand Fanless design Long battery life Microsoft Office 365 Personal included 1-year license HP Connected apps Ports on tablet HP Care Pack Services   The HP Pavilion x2 is currently available in Malaysia at a starting price of RM1,199. More information at http://www8.hp.com/my/en/home.html Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/01/04/mhb-christmas-dinner-2018-presented-by-calvin-klein-watches-and-jewelry/

MHB Christmas Dinner 2017 Presented by Calvin Klein Watches and Jewelry

[Special Event]   MHB recently had our Christmas Party 2018 Presented by Calvin Klein Watches & Jewelry, with the venue and dinner provided by Samplings on the 14th at Berjaya Times Square Hotel, and supported by Kronenbourg 1664. Samplings On The Fourteenth is located at the East Tower on the 14th floor of Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, and offers Western cuisine and a large collection of vintage wines. Since opening its doors in 2011, Samplings On The Fourteenth Restaurant has distinguished itself with its service standards, innovative menu, comfortable ambience, and beautiful view – all coming together to form a unique culinary experience for diners. The restaurant’s main dining room seats 60 people with an addition of 2 private rooms that accommodates 8 and 12 guests respectively. The kitchen is helmed by Chef Val Murugan who has more than 24 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. Under Chef Val’s stewardship over the years, Samplings on the Fourteenth Restaurant has received multiple awards with the most recent being Best Fine-Dining Restaurant, World Gourmet Award (2017) and notably the Malaysia International Gourmet Festival, MIGF (2015), where the restaurant received 12 awards. Adding a touch of glam and bling to the evening was Calvin Klein jewelry as the presenting partner of the event. Calvin Klein watches and jewelry is a partnership established in 1997, of two 90’s iconic and pioneer established companies:  Swatch Group and Calvin Klein. The Calvin Klein watches and jewelry collections feature seductive yet clean and often minimalist aesthetic, with innovative, bold, progressive and seductive designs. First launched in 2004, the jewelry collection takes everyday life and the world as its source of inspiration. The original geometrical creations have given way to designs that are more fluid, organic, sensual and integrated; a reflection of the modern trend. Calvin Klein Watches and Jewelry stores are located in Pavilion KL, Suria KLCC, Sunway Pyramid, and Sunway Velocity. The products are also available at authorised dealers nationwide.      The venue for our Christmas dinner was Samplings on the 14th at Berjaya Times Square Hotel   We got a lovely view of the KL skyline The chefs preparing our meal   Put a bunch of girls and Insta-friendly food and you can be assured that all the cameras and smartphones will come out first for photos before a single bite goes into the mouth! Appetizer Pan-Seared Scallop Avocado Tian with Mango-Tomato Salsa Not one or two but THREE scallops accompanied by a rich avocado and mango-tomato salsa which added some lovely piquant and sweet flavours to the umaminess of the scallops! A wonderful starter with lovely vibrant colours and tasted as good as it looked!    Soup Cream of Asparagus with Mushroom Crostini This heartwarming soup was well-balanced and not too creamy while letting the flavours of the asparagus shine. We moped up every last drop with the delicious mushroom crostini!       Main Courses Grilled Cod Fish with Truffle Risotto and Saffron, Fennel Coulis Each of us got to select our own main course for the evening and the cod fish was a favourite. The beautifully cooked fish was paired with a rich truffle risotto and topped off with a saffron and fennel coulis! Talk about luxury indeed!    Baked Chicken Picatta Mushroom Fricassee and Aged Balsamic Sauce The baked chicken picatta showcased the chefs skills in making a tasty yet tender and moist baked chicken, rounded off with a mushroom fricassee and some sharpness from the aged balsamic sauce.    Christmas Turkey with Chateau Potato and Glaze sweet potato, Mushroom Fricassee Topped with Cranberry Gravy As Christmas was around the corner, this dish was immensely popular among our influencers as it reflected the season’s festive mood! The delicately cooked Christmas turkey was accompanied by potatoes and mushroom fricassee, with a lovely sweet cranberry gravy on the side.    Dessert Christmas Pudding with Vanilla Sauce Yet another dish in line with Christmas – a hearty traditional Christmas dessert which provided a sweet end to the meal.       It was a wonderful meal with great company, flowing conversations, and good food and drink – a fitting way to end a very eventful year for MHB! Here’s to an even better 2018!    Throughout the evening, we had Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc, the French Premium Wheat Beer that is very distinct as it comes in a light blue hue coloured bottle. The refreshing cloudy liquid has a unique smooth-taste with hints of citrus and coriander spice, making it a favourite among many female beer drinkers. The beer is brewed with the caviar of noble hops – Strisselspalt hops, which offers an exquisite aromatic flavour that embodies the elegance of France. For more info on Kronenbourg 1664, head over to https://www.facebook.com/KronenbourgMY/ Currently, Samplings on the Fourteenth is offering a special Chef’s Indulgence menu which is a 3-course set dinner priced at RM 88 nett per set. Samplings on the 14th also has a special Valentine’s Day menu prepared for 14 February and you can read about it at – https://timchew.net/2018/01/19/valentines-day-2018-menu-at-samplings-on-the-fourteenth-berjaya-times-square-hotel/   Samplings on the Fourteenth is located at: 14th Floor, Berjaya Times Square Hotel, 1, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: +60 (3) 2117 8000 ext. 8131 Website: http://www.berjayahotel.com/kualalumpur Email: bth.samplings@berjayahotel.com   . Photo credits: Andy Kho Photography (www.andykho.com) Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/10/01/editors-note-october-2017/

Editor’s Note – October 2017

[Editor’s Note] Food & Hotel Malaysia (FHM) 2017 Cooking demos galore!   I recently went to visit the Food & Hotel Malaysia (FHM – but not the FHM magazine that I used to work for) 2017 trader show at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre which featured many different suppliers of food and beverage as well as equipment related to the F&B and hospitality industries. To my dismay, apparently the organiser did not vet through the registration of the visitors properly and as a result, I daresay that at least 50% of the visitors were there just to freeload on the food and beverage samples. This year’s exhibition spanned nine (9) halls in the KL Convention Centre and it took quite a few hours to visit all the halls, partly due to the crowd of freeloaders. Below are some photos of stuff that caught my attention. There were a lot more exhibits though, way too many for me to capture entirely. Anyway, here are some highlights from my visit:   View this post on Instagram Food & Hotel Malaysia 2017 #wagyu #sake #donuts #wine #craftbeer #pastries #croissant #cupcakes A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Sep 27, 2017 at 8:18pm PDT Bumped into my friend Chanel’s booth which provides refrigeration solutions for cakes and pastries. Not this are not smartphones but sweets!   The Better Beer Festival Ban and the Rise of Bigotry in Malaysia   I am truly truly disgusted by the bigotry shown by many of those in the majority race in Malaysia who somehow thinks that it’s fine to bully the minorities by forcing their beliefs and values on them. Of course, this whole situation was brought about by a scheming political party fishing for votes with no qualms about sowing the seeds of discord, division and hatred amongst the community. A large portion of the population has been brainwashed to think they are superior (surprisingly not too unlike facist/ Nazi ideology) hence when these opportunists come along shouting and screaming in the name of religion, they end up stirring the majority race into a frenzy, promoting the concept of extremism in secular Malaysia. While the moderates, enlightened and progressive citizens no doubt see through their evil schemes, it’s extremely disheartening to see some political leaders and powers that be pounce on this opportunity and actually inflame the situation by unconstitutionally imposing the ban on beer festivals and making statements that cause further division and unrest. Such actions might result in a breeding ground for religious extremism and eventually may lead to great divisions in society that are irreparable, even perhaps (God forbid!) to the point of civil war in the future, tearing the country apart like Syria or Yemen. Hence, I urge all moderates – especially Malay Muslims to speak up and promote moderation, understanding and mutual respect among the various races and religions in Malaysia. Only together can we prosper as a nation. Don’t let the loud extremist braying  of extremist parties tear us apart for their own political gain. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/11/02/gift-ideas-for-her-dior-accessories-selections-for-christmas/

Gift Ideas for Her – Dior Accessories Selections for Christmas

[Fashion] If you have a headache about what to buy your loved one for Christmas, have a look at the latest collection of accessories by Dior. The cruise 2016 accessories collection by Raf Simons for Dior features colourful handbags, graphic earrings and patchwork footwear, and are a reflection of silhouettes, paragons of freshness and lightness. The collection is available in the Dior boutique in Starhill Gallery, Kuala Lumpur and is subject to availability.   Bags   Footwear Accessories   For more info, head over to http://www.dior.com/ Images courtesy of Dior Malaysia Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/05/02/breakfast-at-ultime-atelier-boulangerie/

Breakfast at Ultime Atelier & Boulangerie

[Premium Dining] We recently paid another visit to Ultime Atelier & Boulangerie, which is located at Menara Noble Land, just a stone’s throw from Changkat Bukit Bintang in downtown Kuala Lumpur. Before you proceed further, if you have not yet read my previous posts regarding Ultime, you can do so here: https://timchew.net/2021/03/09/preview-of-ultime-atelier-boulangerie-kuala-lumpur/ https://timchew.net/2021/03/06/ultime-atelier-boulangerie-kuala-lumpur/ This time round, we were there to try their new breakfast menu, which is available from 8 am until 11 am. The menu is rather interesting as you can order one of the courses, or add on course upon course. We went for the whole nine yards (4 courses), as well as trying all the various mains available. 1st Course – RM35 Choose two (2) French and Danish pastries and breads from a wide selection, paired with a cup of black coffee.  2nd Course – Add RM25 Add on either a garden salad, granola or eggs prepared your way. If you’re a big eater, you might want to add on something more substantial to the first course. Granola topped with yoghurt Garden Salad A nice fluffy omelette made with Kenkori eggs – from a local farm, with some greens on the side. This was my favourite for the 2nd course. 3rd Course – Add RM35 If you’re a really huge eater or intend to skip lunch, you can opt to add on a pasta marinara, or grilled Ora king salmon (+RM 20), or A5 wagyu hamburger (+RM 35) with port wine and grilled vegetables. Pasta marinara Grilled Ora king salmon Wagyu burger. Being a meat lover, I really enjoyed this juicy and flavourful wagyu burger! Perhaps I would opt for the 1st course then add on this burger (while skipping the other courses) 4th Course – Add RM18 If you’re a sweet tooth, you might want to end your BIG breakfast with some of Ultime’s signature desserts like burnt cheesecake, brownies, pandan layer cake, chocolate tart and pecan pie. Pecan pie Pandan layer cake Chocolate tart Brownie We could barely walk after the meal. I would think that three (3) courses would be more than enough for me, and that’s with me not choosing the pasta. My choice would be two French pastries (one of which being a croissant), omelette, and maybe if I’m famished, a main. I’m not much of a sweet tooth so desserts don’t really appeal much to me. Perhaps the fairer sex would appreciate them more. If you want to impress a date, this breakfast would be something different from the run of the mill cafe breakfast. For a limited time, enjoy an introductory rate of RM25 (for the 1st course). Ultime Kuala Lumpur is located at: Unit 4-1, Level 4, Menara Noble Land,No. 2, Jalan Changkat Ceylon,50200 Kuala Lumpur,Malaysia. Telephone: 012-858 8016 or 03-2704 0988 For more info, head over to https://www.facebook.com/ultimeMY or https://ultime.com.my/ Don’t forget to take a nice photo at the Insta-spot near the entrance . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/06/16/the-st-regis-kuala-lumpurs-crystal-summer-party-may-2017/

The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur’s Crystal Summer Party – May 2017

[Event]   Not many people know that the idea for Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers actually hatched during one of our pool parties years ago back in 2010. Back then we were having monthly pool parties at a rooftop bar/ swimming pool in downtown Kuala Lumpur and had our lovely FHM Girl Next Door finalists as well as FHM Girlfriends/ Cilipadis with us. So it was with some degree of nostalgia that MHB’s Andy Kho and myself together with our friends Jean and Winnie made our way over to the St. Regis Kuala Lumpur for their Crystal Summer Party on 20 May 2017. This inaugural pool party at the hotel was held at the glitzy and glamorous Crystal rooftop bar and the poolside area. The bar was inspired by the multi-facets of the precious gem it is named after, and is Kuala Lumpur’s latest playground for the city’s socialites and elite. The hotel utilises LED media technology not only in their renowned ballroom but also adjacent to the rooftop swimming pool next to Crystal bar with a large 7m x 4m LED media wall which is extremely useful as a backdrop for events or private launches or live screenings. The indoor areas on the ground and first floor of Crystal bar are more of a classy and sophisticated lounge, while the al fresco area on the ground floor allows you to be closer to the action in the pool. The outdoor areas on the upper deck though is great for private parties and offers a panoramic views of KL city and surrounding areas.  There was a RM70.00 cover charge to enter the pool party which was inclusive of one (1) drink. On the decks providing the entertainment for the party were DJs Mr. Q, Chinois, Alex Martin, Felix T,  Xami, and Dora, taking turns from 4.00pm till late night.   Half a dozen DJs provided the tunes for the party Carlsberg and Asahi were partners of the event Miss Chinese Cosmos Carrie Lee (right) was also there We discovered that the upper deck of Crystal Bar offered an awesome view of the pool below as well as the KL skyline so we spent some time up there enjoying some drinks with the view Andy took the opportunity to snap some photos of Jean Andy and Jean We got there early however later in the evening the crowd started coming in The girls soon took the pool, splashing around with the pink flamingo and unicorn floats The girls had a splashing good time BTW in the background is the large 7m x 4m LED media wall While I was chilling upstairs, enjoying the drinks and catching up on the latest socialite updates and stories with Jessy   Crystal rooftop bar is located at: Level 6, St. Regis Kuala Lumpur, No 6 Jalan Stesen Sentral 2, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: +603 2727 6690 Email: crystalbar@stregis.com Website: http://www.stregiskualalumpur.com/ Opening Hours: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM Daily   Photo credits: Andy Kho Photography (www.andykho.com)   Thanks for having us! Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/05/12/amber-chia-academy-graduation-show-spring-summer-2013/

Amber Chia Academy Graduation Show – Spring / Summer 2013

[Event] It was a rainy Friday evening on 3 May 2013 and I was feeling rather lazy after a long working week but as I promised Amber and Benjamin a week earlier during the Paradigm Mall Spring Summer Fashion Show Gala that I would attend their graduation I made my way over through the crazy rush hour LDP jam to Paradigm Mall. Arrived there early and helped myself to a couple of cold Kronenbourg 1664 lagers and did my usual mingling with the sponsors, models and celebs before the show started. Amber Chia Academy’s (ACA) third graduation show was in conjunction with Paradigm Mall’s “In Style Spring / Summer 2013” fashion week, and had over a hundred modelling, kids modelling, makeup, and photography students graduating from both ACA Jaya One as well as ACA Berjaya Times Square. . Kronenbourg 1664 was the official beer sponsor Amber with MCs for the night Nadine Ann (L) and Nadia Heng (R) Amber Chia giving her welcome address Catwalk guru Benjamin Toong showing his “Gentleman” moves . Highlights of the evening consisted of a presentation of “Era Makeup Evolution”, which presented notable and fashionable makeup trends evolving as the eras go by; a “Garden Fairy Bride” makeup show, with the models parading Keith Kee Couture; “Red Revolution” and Key Ng fashion showcases; and also a “Joy of Colours” fashion show by kid models. Makeup Guru Jil Yong, Makeup Coach Pinky Chia, and Makeup Instructor Quennel Quan, also debuted their “Post-Apocalyptic Avant Garde” makeup masterpieces, whereby the models were also sporting nail art by Nail Art Instructor Yannie Wong. . But it was the kids who really stole the show and had the parents and adults cheering them on The Amber Chia Academy team . After the fashion shows and makeup presentations, ACA students received their graduation certificates from Principal Amber Chia. This was followed by the award presentation for Fan Favourite ACA Model, Most Promising (Female & Male) Kid Models, Most Promising Makeup Artist, Most Promising Photographer, Most Promising (Female & Male) Commercial Faces, and Most Promising (Female & Male) Models. “It feels like ACA was born not too long ago, and I cannot believe that this is our third graduation show already! I am truly grateful for the opportunity, through ACA, to be able to discover and train fresh talents for the industry, and I hope these new talents can go on to make Malaysia proud on an international level,” shared Chia. Hmmm actually I was there for the opening of her first academy in Jaya One PJ. Three years seemed to go by in a flash! Guess I was having a lot of fun. Since its inception almost, ACA graduates have been competing and subsequently winning various model searches (including Victor Yong who won the FHM Girl Next Door 2013 Search recently), beauty pageants, and makeup competitions, in their efforts to carve promising career paths for themselves in the industry. . More info at https://www.facebook.com/amberchia.academy 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: Amber Chia Academy and author’s own . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/08/16/mercedes-benz-malaysia-launches-the-mercedes-benz-e-class-coupe-2021/

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Launches the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé (2021)

[Automotive News] Mercedes-Benz Malaysia unveiled the new E-Class Coupé on 12 August 2021, officially debuting the latest addition to the illustrious Mercedes-Benz dream cars collection to the Malaysian automotive market. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé is available as AMG Line, and reinforces its upgrade with expressive proportions, and a clear sensual design, showcasing the brand’s innovative tradition, elevated with a new iconic look and intuitive new technology. The E 300 AMG Line Coupé embodies ultra-modern style with refined sportiness, with its balanced proportions coupled with the classic-A diamond-block grille and muscular lower bodywork. The E-Class Coupé is also the only pillarless coupé in its class. “This is a car that is sure to stir emotions. With its luxury appeal that is unique to the Mercedes-Benz brand and its new enhancements, the E 300 AMG Line Coupé not only offers customers an exhilarating and spirited drive but also sportier styling, which exudes character. We are confident that this new dream car by Mercedes-Benz will exceed expectations and will continue to be a top choice for motoring enthusiasts.”Sagree Sardien, President & CEO, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia The Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line Coupé is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol engine that generates an output of 190kW (258 hp), 370 Nm of torque, capable of an acceleration of 0-100km/h in just 6.4 seconds. The enhancement of DYNAMIC SELECT, 9G-TRONIC transmission and AGILITY CONTROL suspension offers an optimum ride comfort and driving stability. The E-Class Coupé features design that is seductive, with the signature AMG styling for front and rear spoiler, diamond radiator grille with pins in chrome, and 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. A new highlight of the muscular rear section is the completely redesigned inner workings of the two-piece taillights. The E 300 AMG Line Coupé is further equipped with MULTIBEAM LED that offers brighter and more natural illumination at night. Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus controls the LEDs by switching between low, partial main beam and main beam automatically. Paint colours available for the E 300 AMG Line Coupé are Polar White, Obsidian Black, Rubellite Red, Graphite Grey, Mojave Silver, Brilliant Blue, High-tech Silver, Emerald Green and Selenite Grey. Also available are the designo diamond white bright and designo patagonia red metallic with an additional cost. Ed – My 2nd cousin and Malaysian squash queen Nicol David is one of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s brand ambassadors! Pictured here with the Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line Coupé wearing an exquisite gown made by Carven Ong Couture for #MBFWKL “The sporty and luxurious Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line Coupé is the latest introduction to the Mercedes-Benz dream cars portfolio. With its perfect proportions, the new coupé exhibits a surface-accentuated design with reduced lines and sensuous forms, emphasizing the Coupé’s sporty and luxurious personality. The four frameless, retractable side windows and the absence of a visible B-pillar underlines the dynamic looks of this new coupé. It conveys an air of luxury and style alike. It is, truly a masterpiece,”Michael Jopp, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. The interior of the coupé combines contemporary style with sporty luxury. The essential lines of the interior have a clear definition. The upper section of the dashboard appears to hover; it rests on generously proportioned trim elements that flow through into the doors. The exceptionally high-quality materials selected, together with the quality of craftsman-ship employed, serve to emphasize the car’s sporty, stylish character and exude outstandingly high-class appeal. Other luxurious features include a panoramic sliding sunroof, ambient lighting with 64 colours and three-zones to create a host of individual highlights, and the legendary Burmester® surround sound system. The Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line Coupé is fitted with an entirely new, intelligent steering wheel. The control surfaces sport a high-gloss black finish, while the trim elements and surrounds have a silver shadow finish. The new Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line Coupé is equipped with the latest generation MBUX multimedia System (NTG 6). The information in the instrument cluster and on the media display is easily legible on the large, high-resolution screens. Dual 12.3-inch displays create a widescreen cockpit with a wide range of personalization. The new Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line Coupé has the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz driving assistance systems providing cooperative support to drivers. This results in an especially high level of active safety: the Coupé is able to react quickly and intelligently if the driver is unable to do so. The hands-off detection feature of the steering wheel now works on a capacitive basis, thereby enhancing user-friendliness when driving in semi-automated mode. In addition to the standard safety and assistance features, the E 300 AMG Line Coupé is also equipped with Driving Assistance package, which includes Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Brake Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and PRE-SAFE Plus The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line Coupé is priced at RM 495,071.47 (OTR without insurance). Photo credits: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/11/12/kronenbourg-1664s-laperitif-fashion-2013-finale/

Kronenbourg 1664’s L’Aperitif Fashion 2013 Finale

[Fashion] The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur played host to the grand finale of Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion on 7 November 2013 which showcased the interpretations of this year’s theme ‘French Masterpieces’ by nine local budding fashion designers. The search is like Project Runway and involved a 7 month-long of effort, from entry submission, public voting, short-listing of 20 finalists, design conceptualization, creating the outfit, to fitting, hairdo and choosing their models for the runway. In case you missed the launch of the search earlier in the year, here’s a look at the press conference where I got to enjoy ice-cold Kronenbourg 1664 (lager which is my fav variant!) on a blisteringly hot day! . . As I mentioned earlier, the search is like Project Runway and this year the organisers took the search a step further by capturing the progress of the search on video which you can watch here – http://www.youtube.com/user/Kronenbourg1664MY The winner of the search would get a money-can’t-buy 3-month internship with the world acclaimed fashion designer Nicolas Georgiou in London, recommended by the Patron of Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion Datuk Prof. Dr. Jimmy Choo, O.B.E. Now 7 November was a busy day for me but I made sure that I attended the finale which is the culmination of Kronenbourg 1664’s key campaign of 2013. After all I was there during the launch of the brand two (2) years ago at The Hill, Damansara Heights and you can read about the brand’s events here – https://timchew.net/category/drinks/kronenbourg-1664/ . Veron with my two fav Kronenbourg 1664 girls – Hanli and Estelle! Lots of Kronenbourg 1664 lager and Blanc for us to enjoy throughout the night. A pic with Datuk Prof. Dr. Jimmy Choo OBE who is the patron of Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion, Henrik Andersen the Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia, and Andy Kho (L-R) I really like the Kronenbourg 1664 promoter girls uniform Spotted some Malaysian celebs – Malaysian songstress Chelsia Ng with Miss World Malaysia 2005 Emmeline Ng Miss World Malaysia 2012 Lee Yvonne with Hazel Loke Wish I could bring one of these cool Kronenbourg 1664 beer towers home This was not your typical fashion show runway or setting! The panel of judges consisted of Juliet Yap, Marketing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia, international fashion designers Khoon Hooi and Keith Kee, Rubin Khoo Managing Editor of August Man and Mindy Teh Editor in Chief of Marie Claire with mentor Gillian Hung. Elecoldxhot provided some flashy entertainment with their LED dance! Nigel Chia Kay Thuan with his ‘Le Fantome D L’Opera’ Collection Laura Yep Ai Mei – ‘Quasimodo’ Collection Lorenzo Peh Chin Yee – ‘Corsetheus’ Collection Shin Mei Chian – ‘Pure Evil’ Collection Ivy Kerk Mee Sian – ‘Further’ Collection Alice Ng Sheng Min – ‘Charm De Ligne’ Collection Michelle Soong – ‘Love Antoinette’ Collection Ellie Lim Mei Li – ‘L’Art’ Collection Phuna Boon Yi – ‘Clermont-Ferrand’ Collection But there can only be one winner and after the break where guests got to enjoy a delicious buffet spread provided by the Majestic Hotel KL, Ellie Lim was declared the winner of the Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion 2013. She later remarked, “This has been an amazing journey for me. I am truly grateful to Kronenbourg 1664 for giving me not only an opportunity to learn but the chance of a lifetime to intern in London with a renowned fashion icon like Nicolas Georgiou. Taking part in L’Aperitif Fashion has been a remarkable journey for all of us, having been guided and monitored by mentor Gillian Hung on our collections.” The winner with Dato Jimmy Choo, Juliet Yap the Marketing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia, and the judges . Supporting the Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion were iconic The Majestic Hotel; providing the Official Venue for the entire campaign, L’Oreal Professionnel who was the Official Hair Stylist and Diva Productions was the official makeup partner. More info on Kronenbourg 1664’s L’Aperitif Fashion at http://www.kronenbourg1664.com.my/LAF More info on Kronenbourg 1664 at http://carlsbergmalaysia.com.my/web/brands/br_kronenbourg_1664.aspx or https://www.facebook.com/Kronenbourg1664 Photo credits: Kronenbourg 1664 Malaysia (Carlsberg Malaysia), Andy Kho (www.andykho.com) and author’s own Follow me on Instagram @timchew1311 The Chinese press release is below after the photos. . . KRONENBOURG 1664 L’APERITIF FASHION总决赛冠军得主诞生 年轻创意设计师展现具有Kronenbourg 1664风格的法式杰作 吉隆坡，2013年11月12日——Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion时尚盛会已经在吉隆坡Majestic Hotel圆满落幕！9位本地时尚界新秀设计师成功在这项总决赛中，展现他们对“法式杰作”的完美诠释。从呈交作品、公众投选、评选20位决赛圈入围者、设计概念化、缝制参赛服装到试装、发型设计和选择伸展台模特儿等长达7个月的努力之后，Ellie Lim终于成功打败芸芸竞争者，脱颖而出成为冠军得主，并成功获得Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion名誉赞助人拿督Jimmy Choo博士教授O.B.E推荐，前往伦敦知名时尚设计师Nicolas Georgiou旗下，实习3个月。 马来西亚Carlsberg董事经理Henrik Juel Andersen在提到该啤酒品牌如何与时尚平台挂钩时表示：“Kronenbourg 1664是法国排名第一且享誉全球的优质啤酒品牌。为了忠于其源自法国文化、生活和魅力的品牌精神，Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion一直致力于推动本地时尚领域的发展，并且为有创意的年轻设计师提供一个展现才华的平台。” Andersen补充说：“今天，我们见证了梦想成真以及愿景成为现实的历史性时刻。秉持着发掘时尚精英以及为时尚界新秀设计师提供实验性竞赛的使命，Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif是一个专业的时尚平台，让年轻设计师有机会表达他们对‘法式享乐艺术’的诠释，并且把他们的想法转化成为真实作品，然后通过伸展台呈现于世人眼前。” 聚集服装设计师与酿酒师且结合奢华时尚以及法式享乐艺术的2013年Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion。让参赛者在经历了准备总决赛的种种磨练之后，交出令人惊艳的成果。总决赛当天，参赛者所呈现的一系列法式时尚作品，充分反映了法国第一优质啤酒Kronenbourg 1664的独特风格，也完美体现了法式文化、纪念性建筑和文学精髓。 第一位参赛者Shin Mei Chian呈现了一系列以“纯粹的邪恶（Pure Evil）”为主题的作品。她的作品融合了戏剧元素和风格，并且完美结合了复古与现代法国风情。随后登场的Ivy Kerk Mee Siang则以“更进一步（Further）”为设计主题呈现了一系列灵感来自巴克莱资本银行（Barclay Capital Bank）的作品。接下来，Michelle Soong为玛丽安托内特加入了现代化的元素，带来一系列以“情迷安托内特（Love Antoinette）”为主题的时尚服饰。精致考究中带有淡淡的哥特式风情，Alice Ng Sheng Min以其名为“线之魅力（Charme De Ligne）”的系列作品，让观众为之着迷。 经过短暂的休息时间之后，晚会也迅速进入高潮时刻。穿着大胆前卫服饰的模特儿，完美诠释了Nigel Chia Kay Thuan以“Le Fantôme De L’opéra（歌剧魅影）”为概念的系列作品。紧接下来，Lorenzo Peh Chin Yee也以“Corsetheus（马甲休斯）”为主题设计出一系列创意服饰，把“紧身胸衣”转变成为高级时装元素。Ellie Lim则带来了更优雅婉约的设计概念，通过“艺之颂（L’art）”的主题，呈现一系列错综复杂且注重细节的精致作品。设计风格完全迥异的是Phuna Boon Yi的“Clermont-ferrand （克莱蒙费朗）”，他以一系列结合传统与庞克风格的混合设计，营造出不拘一格的创新组合。最后一位入围者Laura Yap Ai Mei则是当晚唯一一位呈现全男服饰的参赛者，她的主题是“Quasimodo（卡西莫多）” 。 由Carlsberg Malaysia市场营销总监Juliet Yap、国际时尚设计师Khoon Hooi与Keith Kee、August Man执行编辑Rubin Khoo以及Marie Claire总编Mindy Teh所组成的陪审团，对参赛者所展现出来的非凡才华，感到惊叹。Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion名誉赞助人拿督Jimmy Choo OBE博士教授，和导师Gillian Hung也非常满意参赛者的表现。每一位参赛者的设计作品都博得如雷的掌声。 2013年Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion优胜者XX表示：“对我来说，这是充满惊喜的旅程。我很感谢Kronenbourg 1664给我一个学习的平台，让我有机会到伦敦向Nicolas Georgiou这样的时尚界代表人物学习。对所有参赛者而言，能够获得导师Gillian Hung的指引和教导，让参与L’Aperitif Fashion成为一趟非凡的丰富旅程。” Kronenbourg 1664 L’Aperitif Fashion总决赛的支持单位包括The Majestic Hotel，负责为活动提供官方场地；L’Oreal Professionals，负责提供官方发型设计；以及Diva Productions，负责提供化妆造型设计。在每一个支持单位的配合下，参赛者所设计的每一件法式时尚作品都展现出无与伦比的美感。 欲知更多有关Kronenbourg 1664的详情，请浏览www.kronenbourg1664.com.my/LAF Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/10/27/abundance-of-oysters-and-abundance-of-champagne-with-veuve-clicquot-at-soleil-dc-mall-kuala-lumpur/

“Abundance of Oysters” and “Abundance of Champagne” with Veuve Clicquot at Soleil, DC Mall, Kuala Lumpur

[Restaurant/ Premium Dining] This slideshow requires JavaScript.   Ruby and I headed over to Soleil Restaurant & Wine Bar in Damansara City Mall (DC Mall) recently to try out the restaurant’s “Abundance of Oysters” and “Abundance of Champagne” promotions which happening in October and November 2018, in collaboration with Veuve Clicquot champagne. Founded in 1772, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin has stayed true to its motto “Only One Quality, The Finest” for over two centuries. Over the years, the Maison has acquired extraordinary know how thanks to an exceptional woman: Barbe Nicole Ponsardin, also known as Madame Veuve Clicquot. With a tradition of export, today Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin exports more than 90% of its production to over 150 countries. Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin champagne is the world’s second most popular champagne and is considered by consumers to be the most exclusive and the most prestigious. In my humble opinion, champagne and fresh oysters are a match made in heaven – with the pairing of fresh oysters bursting with umami flavours contrasting with the crispness of champagne. Soleil currently has a promotion whereby you can get a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne (normal selling price of RM330++) together with 3 pieces of fresh Irish oysters (normal selling price of RM55++) at a very special promotional price of just RM345++. In addition to that, you can opt to upgrade to half a dozen of fresh Irish Oysters for only an additional RM5++ (which I highly suggest that you do!). Every Wednesday, Soleil has an evening activity called “Ladies and Gentlemen Night” featuring this very delicious natural aphrodisiac. Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label champagne by glass and bottle will be available at discounted prices and there’s also an Oyster Bar at the terrace serving varieties of oysters from around the world with prices starting from RM10 – RM22 and also various packages of Oysters Trays. Soleil Restaurant & Wine Bar has always been famous for Chef Evert’s gastronomic creations with seafood dishes being his specialty – from Belgium Mussel Pots, Clam Pots, Sole Meuniere, North Sea Shrimps and Seared Scallops. On 11th November 2018, the establishment will be organizing a one-day Seafood Festival in partnership with Veuve Clicquot. The event will feature a selection of seafood prepared in the cooking method of your choice, a fresh oyster bar with various selection of oysters, and not forgetting lots of champagne, wines and other beverages on promotion.   Early Bird Packages for Seafood Festival:   Package 1 RM75nett a glass of Veuve Clicquot champagne with 3 Oysters (RM85nett Door Price)   Package 2 RM400nett a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne with 1 ½ Dozen Oysters. (RM460nett Door Price)   Early Bird Packages can be purchased at Soleil Restaurant and Wine Bar Outlet or http://www.eventbrite.com   SOLEIL Restaurant & Wine Bar is located at: Lot L2-13A & L2-15, Second Floor DC MALL, Plaza DC, Damansara City, 6, Jalan Damanlela, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia .   Telephone: 03-20118261 Email: asst_rm@soleil.com.my Website: http://www.soleil.my Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soleilrestaurant/   . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/10/07/lenovo-vibe-shot-dinner-with-hannah-reyes-national-geographic-young-explorer/

Lenovo Vibe Shot – Dinner with Hannah Reyes, National Geographic Young Explorer

[ADV] Stephanie Lim and I with Hannah Reyes   My MHB blogger Stephanie Lim and I recently attended an exclusive media dinner organised by Lenovo Malaysia at Suria KLCC with National Geographic Young Explorer Hannah Reyes. Hannah Reyes is a documentary and travel photographer from the Philippines, who is represented by National Geographic Creative, and is a member of Cambodia-based Ruom Collective. Her love for photography has brought her all over Asia, from photographing the illicit production of an ecstasy precursor in Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountains, surviving the crossfire of shanty demolitions in Manila, creating a moving visual dialogue with a sex worker, to documenting the changing world of Mongolia’s steppe. She recently completed an expedition funded in part by National Geographic, documenting changing indigenous cultures in Northern Luzon, the Philippines. She hopes to continue documenting hopeful and thought-provoking stories within complex situations created by poverty and inequality. Her work has been published in print and online in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Time.com, NationalGeographic.com, The Diplomat, The Guardian and Lonely Planet, and has been exhibited for the Chilean embassy in Manila; PNoise Festival in Copenhagen; Asian Cultural Festival in Aalborg, Denmark; China ASEAN Photo Festival in Nanning, China, and most recently with National Geographic in Colorado, USA. She is based in Phnom Penh however through her partnership with Nat Geo and Lenovo, she has been to India, Thailand and Malaysia to shoot with the latest Lenovo smartphone – the Lenovo Vibe Shot. Prior to dinner, Hannah gave us a presentation of the photos she shot with the Lenovo Vibe Shot during her travels. Here are the photos Hannah took in Thailand. Click on the individual photos to open a larger version.   Next up were the photos from India.   And lastly were the photos she shot in our very own backyard.   If I had not known that the photos were shot with a smartphone I’d have thought they were taken with a DSLR or at least a system camera. Of course, Hannah’s photography skills were also a great contributing factor. We also took the opportunity to play around with the Lenovo Vibe Shot during dinner and later bringing it to the KLCC lake and shooting the twin towers. The most important function to girls is the front camera and the Lenovo Vibe Shot comes with a 8MP front camera with Beauty Mode Look how pretty we are! Then down to the KLCC lake where the fountain was running Used the panorama function to capture the entire twin towers    Lenovo has lent me the Lenovo Vibe Shot so do look out for my review on it coming soon! In the meantime, you can see the photos I take with it on my Instagram at http://instagram.com/timchew1311/ You can follow Hannah on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/hannahreyesphoto and on Instagram at http://instagram.com/hannahrey/ More info on the Lenovo Vibe Shot at http://lenovomobile.com.my/ . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/10/29/loewe_men_fall_winter_2015/

LOEWE Men’s Fall Winter 2015 Collection

[Fashion] The LOEWE Men’s Fall Winter 2015 builds on last season’s take on normality, revealing different facets of the evolving identity introduced with Anderson’s debut collection for the house. The collection features an advanced interpretation of menswear —youthful, functional and aware— in a collection defined by lightness, innovation and materiality. An imaginary leitmotif unites diverse aesthetic influences, as a distinctive yet elusive character —by turns eccentric, classic, playful, awkward, confident and worldly— is embedded against an anonymous backdrop, creating a multidimensional play on a modern man’s wardrobe. The outerwear is at the core of this collection, like the pale denim peacoat lined with Spanish shearling, a double-faced duffel coat constructed for maximum comfort, and a navy suede trench made out of skins normally reserved for bags. The designs consist of superior design, rigorous functionality and resolute modernity that characterise LOEWE today. Silhouette is dictated by ease and volume. Supple knits and wide trousers are contrasted with structure and stripes, while sports references are elevated through high-end materials and refined detailing. A deep military green enhances the Anton backpack, as wallets, scarves, brooches, and a braided heeled loafer, among other accessories, complete the collection. Visual impact and tactility are achieved through pattern and craft, manifest in a rediscovered French camouflage adapted across the collection, and a lattice of calf over canvas used in briefcases, shoulder bags and the Amazona’s new, roomier iterations. Napa is treated to feel like linen, python juxtaposed with cotton, and mohair brushed for an extra-plush effect. Marine, saffron and yellow accentuate a muted spectrum of natural shades, from mustard and cognac to chocolate and rust to forest green. Flashes of Oro, LOEWE’s signature hue, appear throughout, reinforcing the house codes in a contemporary way. Leather and exotic skins are used as supremely modern, versatile and weightless materials, exemplified by an ultra-light yet resilient watersnake blouson with a super-smooth hand and a kangaroo anorak that showcases LOEWE’s pioneering waterproofing technology. LOEWE’s latest collection is inspired by outerwear with a domestic sensibility and a character that stays the same through constant change, creating a new template for menswear: wearable fashion that is both universal and hyper-specific, and fundamentally modern. The Loewe boutique in Malaysia is located at: Pavilion Kuala Lumpur Lot. 2.35.01, Level 2, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, No. 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: +603-2141 0262 More info at http://www.loewe.com/   Apparel   Bags    Footwear   Others   Images courtesy of FJ Benjamin (Malaysia). Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/06/15/a-date-with-the-hyundai-tucson-2-0l-crdi-diesel-car-review/

A Date with the Hyundai Tucson 2.0L CRDI Diesel (Car Review)

[Car Review]   I had sooooooo much fun with the Elantra Sport Turbo 1.6GDi during Chinese New Year earlier this year (which you can read here – https://timchew.net/2018/03/06/chinese-new-year-2018-with-the-6th-generation-hyundai-elantra-sport-1-6-turbo-gdi/) that I really couldn’t wait to try out another of Hyundai Motor’s turbocharged engine vehicles. This time round, it was the latest Hyundai Tucson 2.0L CRDI Diesel, a variant with a turbocharged powertrain that was built for outstanding performance and fuel-efficiency (but low and behold – ALL Tucson variants available in Malaysia have  been granted the Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) status from the Malaysia government, meaning that you can park it in EEV reserved spots in certain carparks ha ha!). The Tucson 2.0L CRDI Diesel engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, providing a power output of 178PS and a whopping 400Nm from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm of torque and a top speed of 201km/h in 9.3 seconds (although I didn’t try to hit this top speed). The R-series CRDI Diesel Engine is also fitted with piezo-electronic injectors that deliver fuel at 1800 bar, with low fuel consumption and 186g/100km CO2 emissions. New convenient features are also offered with this new variant, which include the LED Headlamps with static bending lights; Auto Hold function that automatically holds the brakes steady once the vehicle has come to a complete stop thereby preventing it from creeping forward or rolling backward; and a smart powered tailgate which opens at the approach of the key-holder. Optional accessories such as three leather packages (colour options: black, red and white), body kit and 19” rims are also made available with the Tucson 2.0L CRDI Diesel. The one the nice folks at Hyundai Malaysia lent me was with the body kit and sporty and stylish 19″ rims, which I thought would make it a very bumpy and hard ride due to the really low-profile tyres, but to my total amazement – the ride comfort was absolutely fantastic! Way more comfortable than the Hyundai Elantra Sport which I drove over Chinese New Year (I fetched my parents to my grandma’s house for reunion dinner, and safe to say my mom wasn’t a fan of the stiff suspension of the Elantra Sport which, to be fair, was designed for superior handling and to provide a low centre of gravity, than all out comfort).       The Tucson is one of the safest vehicles in its segment and has received the maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. It benefits from a solid body structure featuring 51% ultra-high strength steel for improved torsional rigidity, impact resistance and a host of innovative passive and active safety features. As with all Hyundai models, the Tucson also features a state-of-the-art safety system that offers optimal driving stability. These include the Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, Hillstart Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) with an Automatic Vehicle Hold feature. The 1.6L T-GDI and 2.0L CRDI Diesel are fully equipped with 6 airbags for all round safety. Designed based on Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design theme, the Tucson employs refined aesthetics with sculpted body forms and sporty contours for an athletic, bold and striking appearance. The front of the All-New Tucson is dominated by the Hyundai signature hexagonal front grille, which connects to the headlamps with LED Positioning Lamps to create a distinctive identity. A wing-shaped appearance to the front bumper, which incorporates the LED daytime running lights, gives the car a unique style and provides a visual reference for the car’s wide track.    I thought it was going to be a bumpy ride, but I was so wrong!    On the inside, the premium wrapped extra-wide instrument panel contours to enhance occupants’ overall sense of interior roominess. A stitched, soft-touch pad is located near the driver’s right knee, for better comfort during long commutes or spirited cornering. Interior touch points have been upgraded with premium, soft-touch materials and all interior switchgear have a more refined feel during operation.         Electric driver’s seat! Lots of room for passengers in the rear (the driver’s seat has been adjusted for my height – 178cm) Rear aircon vents – a must for our hot and humid weather! Ample space in the rear even with the rear seats up View this post on Instagram Easily fit all the products from our generous sponsors for the @myhottestbloggers dinner at Tangerine recently into the rear compartment of the new Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi. This immensely powerful, super comfortable (yes even with the optional 19" rims and low profile tyres) and convenient baby is currently available at @hyundaimy #hyundaitucsoncrdi #hyundaitucson #hyundaimalaysia #suv #hyundaimotors A post shared by Tim Chew (@timchew1311) on Jun 11, 2018 at 11:54pm PDT As I was loading her up, my hands were full with the boxes and I was trying to carry the boxes with one hand while I opened the boot but the SUV sensed I was at the rear (I had the key on me of course) and opened the boot for me without me having to press any button. Closing the boot was also a breeze, just press the button and it closes. Talk about a smart and convenience!    The Electric Parking Brake (EPB) with an Automatic Vehicle Hold The Automatic Vehicle Hold feature was tremendously handy in KL’s notorious traffic, which can be stop and go. Just turn it on, and when you bring the vehicle to a complete stop, you can leave it in D and it won’t move an inch. To move, just lightly tap on the accelerator and off you go! No need to shift from D to N (although I still prefer to do so at traffic lights where the wait is long).    My only grouse with this SUV is that the reverse camera is built into the rear view mirror instead of the AV unit    All in all, it was a really comfortable and fun ride! In fact, I enjoyed the comfort element so much that I didn’t really push her to the max, although she did perform quite well on the Tropicana Golf & Country Resort straight, and along its twisty corners. The ride handling was outstanding – hardly any body roll, the chassis easily pointed in the direction of the steering wheel, while the tyres stuck to the road like glue. There was so much power on tap, definitely more than you’ll probably ever need. But it’s reassuring to know that you have it, and it really makes the Tucson one hell of an exciting ride (although I have to state that you should always ALWAYS place safety first before fun)! Certainly not how I would normally describe an SUV, but this Tucson is really something else! All Tucson variants are entitled to 50,000km free service with 3 years validity. HYUNDAI-SIME DARBY MOTORS SDN BHD offers a 5-year or 300,000km (whichever comes first) warranty on all its new passenger vehicles. A 24-hour road assist service is also now available to new and existing Hyundai vehicles.  For more information or to place bookings, interested parties can head to the nearest sales outlet or call Hyundai’s Customer Careline at 1-300-13-2000.   HYUNDAI-SIME DARBY MOTORS SDN BHD has a new price list for their models reflecting the ZERO RATED GST with effect from 1st June 2018:   Model Variant Current OTR Price without Insurance (RM) New OTR Price (ZERO GST) without Insurance (RM)   Reduced By (RM) Hyundai Elantra 1.6 (A) Turbo 131,488.00 124,088.00 7,400.00 Hyundai Elantra 2.0 (A) Executive 116,388.00 109,888.00 6,500.00 Hyundai Elantra 2.0 (A) Dynamic 120,588.00 113,888.00 6,700.00 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid 1.6 (A) HEV 100,388.00 94,788.00 5,600.00 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid 1.6 (A) HEV Plus 116,488.00 109,988.00 6,500.00 Hyundai Tucson 1.6 (A) Turbo 145,688.00 137,488.00 8,200.00 Hyundai Tucson 2.0 (A) Diesel 155,788.00 147,088.00 8,700.00 Hyundai Tucson 2.0 (A) Elegance 126,188.00 119,188.00 7,000.00 Hyundai Tucson 2.0 (A) Premium 159,888.00 150,888.00 9,000.00 Hyundai Starex 2.5 (A) Royale 164,088.00 154,888.00 9,200.00 Hyundai Starex 2.5 (A) Premium 173,788.00 164,088.00 9,700.00 Hyundai Starex 2.5 (A) Deluxe 183,588.00 173,288.00 10,300.00   . 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https://timchew.net/2015/02/23/nissan-x-trail-3rd-generation-launched-in-malaysia/

Nissan X-Trail (3rd Generation) Launched in Malaysia

[Automobiles]   Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) launched the All-New 3rd Generation Nissan X-Trail on 23 January in Kuala Lumpur – a premium crossover which has already won multiple awards including the “Indonesia Car of the Year 2014” from Mobil Motor Magazine and Auto Bild Indonesia Magazine, and “Car of the Year 2014” award by China Mainstream Media Automobile Alliance in China. There are two (2) variants available in Malaysian market; the 2.5L 4WD, and the 2.0L 2WD, and the All-New X-Trail has already gathered over 1,300 bookings since pre-launch bookings started in December 2014. Mr. Tan Keng Meng, Director of Marketing and Product Planning in addressing the launch of the All-New X-Trail said, “We are delighted to be able to introduce the All-New X-Trail to Malaysians. The previous generation X-Trails were such icons for SUV and crossover fans here, with more than 19,000 units on the road since ETCM first launched it in 2003. The completely redesigned All-New X-Trail combines Nissan’s acclaimed 4×4 heritage with fresh ideas, premium styling and groundbreaking technologies – making it one of the most advanced Crossovers with off-roading capabilities. This innovative premium crossover is further testament to ETCM’s commitment to bringing consumers with the best that Nissan has to offer.” The locally assembled All-New Nissan X-trail is equipped with the new Active Chassis Control technology which consists of the following three (3) technologies that have been developed to ensure smooth, stress-free driving experience: Active Ride Control system moderates any pitching motion experienced by drivers on bumpy roads by controlling engine torque and brakes to improve ride comfort Active Engine Brake system adjusts the amount of engine braking to assist drivers to reduce speed when cornering or stopping Active Trace Control system automatically applies small amounts of braking to the individual wheels to reduce understeer and help the driver maintain control around corners.   The 2.5L variant is equipped with an ALL MODE INTELLIGENT 4×4 System (4×4-i), for different driving modes based on road conditions Two-wheel drive Auto Mode – which automatically changes torque distribution between front and rear wheels when driving on paved or slippery roads Lock Mode for permanent four-wheel drive. Hill Start Assist is available in both variants and will hold the car steady when starting from a stop position on a slop. Additionally, there is the Hill Descent Control in the 2.5L 4WD variant which controls the vehicle speed (between 4km/h -15km/h) when descending a steep or slippery hill without applying brakes, allowing drivers to focus on steering the vehicle. The 2.5L 4WD variant is powered by the QR25DE-k2 engine with Twin CVTC, providing a maximum power output of 171 PS at 6,000 rpm and 233 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. The 2.0L 2WD variant comes with the MR20DD engine with direct fuel injection and Twin CVTC, churning out 144 PS at 6,000 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. Both variants are mated to the Nissan’s Next Generation Xtronic CVT with 7-speed manual mode, and the ECO mode system for better fuel efficiency. On the exterior, Nissan has designed the X-Trail with Boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, the distinctive ‘V’-shaped Nissan grille and Rear Combination Lamp, which are standard for both variants. Unique to the 2.5 4WD variant are first-in-class LED Headlights with auto function and LED Wing Mirror Signal Lights. Roof Rails and 17-inch alloy wheels give the new All-New X-Trail a striking and imposing appearance. A highly refined interior is emphasised with quality soft touch materials on the instrument panel, front door and centre armrest. Touches of chrome, geometric metallic and premium piano black finishing further evoke a sense of modern elegance in its interior ambience. A 5+2 seating configuration makes for an exceptionally spacious cabin, particularly for instances when additional seating is required for children. It also has an impressive load capacity of 1,520 litres (with second and third row seats folded flat); and 550 litres (with third row seats folded flat). Load capacity of 1,520 litres (with second and third row seats folded flat) There are also Zero-Gravity Inspired’ Seats to help reduce fatigue, a best-in-class 5-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display (ADAD), and a first-in-class 360° Around View Monitor for added parking convenience. 5-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display 360° Around View Monitor There is a range of safety features that comes as standard across both variants; including the Dual Front SRS airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS) with Active Brake-Limited Slip (ABLS), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist (BA) The All-New Nissan X-Trail is priced at RM165,800 for the 2.5L 4WD, and RM142,800 for the 2.0L 2WD (on-the-road prices with insurance for Peninsular Malaysia). It is available in five (5) colours – Tungsten Silver, Titanium Olive, Diamond Black, Graphite Blue and Brilliant White. In conjunction with the launch of the All-New X-Trail, ETCM is offering three (3) years or 100,000km warranty (whichever comes first), and free three (3) years maintenance service with every purchase.   OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES FOR THE ALL-NEW X-TRAIL No. Parts Unit Price (RM) 1. Tinting – V-Kool Elite Security 4,400.00 2. Tinting – V-Kool Armorcoat 2,850.00 3. Tinting – Solar Gard 1,450.00 4. Leather Seat 2,800.00 5. Ultra Glass Body Coating NEO 2,350.00 6. Multi-Media Navigation 3,800.00   For more information, call the Nissan Customer Care Line Toll FREE line at 1800-88-3838 or head over to www.nissan.com.my Photo credits: Edaran Tan Chong Motors Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/05/23/sony-alpha-5000-user-review/

Sony Alpha 5000 – User Review

[ADV]   Remember that I attended the Sony Alpha 5000 bloggers gathering at Carcosa Seri Negara (you can read about it here – https://timchew.net/2014/05/12/sony-alpha-5000-bloggers-preview-2/)? Well the nice folks at Sony Malaysia let us bring the camera home to try out and try I did. As I work in the media, I attend lots of different sorts of events and I decided to bring the very portable and light Alpha 5000 with me. Now I was one of only two (2) people who took home the set with 2 lenses: The kit lens which was an E-mount 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 which weighs only 116g, , with Lens-based Image Stabilization (SteadyShot) E-mount 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 Telephoto Lens with Optical SteadyShot So how would this light and portable interchangeable lens camera perform in my day to day life in the media which consists of attending lots of different events? I call it practical application of sorts while MHB’s Andy Kho calls it a “field test”. Well let’s find out how the camera performed. First up was an ice cream launch.   Shot this one in Program Auto mode and I’m very impressed with the camera’s white balance. This was not an easy scene to shoot as you can see as the ballroom was bathed in purple light but the camera managed to get this pic right as I enabled the Face Detection function and the camera locked on to Estelle’s face.    Yet again the white balance was spot on while skin tones come out very natural.   This one was a somewhat tricky shot to take as I was holding the plate of ice cream in one hand and the Sony Alpha 5000 in the other but thanks to the SteadyShot it managed to compensate for the hand shake (mind you that both objects were shaking) to come up with this crisp photo.   Shot this one using Intelligent Auto mode while I was walking in from the entrance to the stage at Future Music Festival Asia 2014. The skies were gray and hazy but somehow this pic turned out pretty nice with the ferris wheel contrasting against the sky.   Girls were very impressed with the camera when I showed them the pics that I shot of them. I guess this is due to the fact that their skin looks pretty flawless thanks to the soft skin effect which has three (3) different settings – low, medium and high. Here’s a shot of DJ Alexis using Soft Skin effect (on low setting).   It was a pretty hazy night in Bukit Jalil. Here’s a shot of the main stage at Future Music Festival Asia 2014 on the second night.   A trip to the Malaysian Formula One GP 2014 followed and this was a shot taken of me winning a pair of gloves signed by Ferrari driver Kimi Raikonnen, which was shot by Stephanie on Intelligent Auto mode. The Face Detection feature is really useful as it focused on my face instead of everything else in the photo.   During the pit walk, I spotted the beautiful gull winged Mercedes SLS which is the Safety Car quietly sitting in the garage. Unfortunately I didn’t bring the zoom lens, so I zoomed to the maximum 50mm focal length and snapped this shot. As I set the camera’s resolution to 20.1 megapixels, I could easily crop this pic and still retain the details.     I was pretty lucky as I got to watch the race in the M-Scape VIP lounge which was right above the Ferrari pits. Switched to shutter priority to catch this action shot of a pit stop. I really like the fact that there’s a dedicated video record button which is very convenient when you need to quickly shoot video such as in this situation.   I finally found an event to use the 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 lens with the Sony Alpha 5000 and that was during the Mid Valley Fashion Week 2014. Shot this one without flash using Aperture Priority mode.     Had to use the zoom lens at its maximum 210mm focal length for this pic as MC Jun Yong and the models were right at the far end of the stage (I estimate at least 100 feet away). Quite impressed with how the colours and textures of the outfits turned out! I believe the APS-C sensor had a big part in capturing the details. OK so it’s pretty darn good in good light but how would it perform in night event/ clubbing settings?     This took a few shots to get the focus and light correctly set. And as a clubbing environment has lots of lighting effects, I set the cam to continuous shooting mode and held the shutter button and the camera started shooting at 2.5 frames per second shooting until it reached its maximum of 15 frames at Fine setting. The next day, I downloaded the pics to my laptop and just selected the nicest one!   This was a one in a thousand shot as the club’s strobe light came on at exactly the same time as I shot the photo. Of course I don’t count on this happening very often but if you look at the following two (2) photos you’d see that the camera does pretty well under difficult lighting too. Focusing took 2 – 3 attempts even with the focus assist beam but that is pretty normal under low lighting.   Here’s a shot inside a club taken with Aperture Priority mode with direct flash.   Another shot using Aperture Priority mode which beautifully captures the ambient light. I really the camera’s white balance and I dare say that it’s one of the best among a lot of interchangeable lens/ micro 4/3 cameras that’s I’ve reviewed lately.   OK so the camera’s pretty darn good with people. What about objects? Used Aperture Priority (it’s one of my fav modes) to shoot these five (5) bottles of vodka through a glass case with backlight.   Shot this magnum bottle of vodka in a really dark environment with some light coming from the LED light afixed to the bottom of the bottle. This pic has some background defocus effect focusing the attention solely on the bottle but if you look carefully to the bottom left you can even see the condensation on the outside of the ice bucket as it was almost the same focal length as the bottle. wish there was more lights in the background so I could have the “bokeh”effect but Providence is just one really dark club!    Speaking of condensation, look at the water droplets on these bottles of beer. It’s really quite amazing how such a compact little ICL camera can capture such details and look at the background defocus effect. Makes it look like a professional shot even though it was just me with the Sony Alpha 5000 and no additional lighting. BTW on Intelligent Auto mode you can manually adjust the amount of Background Defocus (see how the background is blurred out in this pic?) and Brightness that you want. This is especially useful for beginners and admittedly lazy photographers like me haha!   This was a tough shot but somehow I managed to get a nice pic as the club’s strobe light happened to turn on during this shot out of the 15 shots I took using continuous shooting.   The night view of Damansara and Bandar Utama from The Roof, First Avenue Bandar Utama using the Hand-Held Twilight mode. I didn’t have a tripod so I held it as steady as I could and the SteadyShot did the rest.   Here I am using the Hand Held Twilight mode again. This time at The Club in Saujana, Subang outside their Italian restaurant Senja. The light from the walkway was captured beautifully. Quite impressive as this was using the kit lens which had a maximum aperture of F3.5    Stood further back and snapped this shot of the restaurant as I wanted the effect of the light coming out of the windows. Mind you, it was pretty dark where I was standing with the only light coming from the restaurant and the walkway.   There are times when you have to quickly capture a shot at events. I didn’t have time to set this one in any of the P, A, S or M modes so I trusted the Intelligent Auto mode and it got me the photo I needed!   Used Program Auto with direct flash for this one. Had to adjust the EV (Exposure Compensation a bit but this was quite easily done and the camera can go up to +/- 3.0EV).   The tiltable pop up flash was pretty useful too! Now if you look carefully you’ll see that the ceiling is black so not much chance of much light bouncing off that. Luckily behind me was a white wall and as the flast could tilt up to about 110 degrees I managed to bounce the light off the wall giving a more natural colour to the photo as compared to direct flast.   I love doing food reviews because I get to eat lots of delicious food and having the Sony Alpha 5000 with it’s tiltable flash is really handy. Didn’t need any extra lighting (I would normally use the flashlight function on my smartphone to provide some additional light) as I simply bounced the light off the ceiling. Shot this one in Macro mode under Scene.   Another shot using Macro mode.   Natural smile x natural lighting (bounced the light off the ceiling for this pic as well) = one of my fav photos!   Start up time was about a second and it’s great when you have to hurriedly shoot! Aimed the camera at him, the camera was quick to focus and I snapped this shot before this naughty fella who was looking for bananas at the back of my house had time to react ha ha!   One of the key features that I didn’t use was the 180 degree LCD screen for taking selfies. Obviously I’m not a big fan of taking selfies but girls love it and you can read about what some of the MHB bloggers wrote about this feature here – https://www.facebook.com/myhotbloggers Another feature was the creative filters. Well my photos are mainly event photos so I didn’t really bother about this feature either but the more artistic types would certainly appreciate this feature. And there’s also the WiFi/ NFC connectivity which is why if you follow me on Instagram at @timchew1311 you’d notice that recently all my photos are very nice. This is because I did not have to use the phone’s camera to shoot the photo but instead shoot it on the Alpha 5000 then transfer it to my phone via WiFi. MHB’s Careen Tan did a very thorough write-up on the NRC/ WiFi connectivity and you can read about on her blog – http://www.careentan.com/ My verdict? I really enjoyed using the Sony Alpha 5000. Not only was it really portable and light. But it also delivered where it counted and by that I mean crisp photos with beautiful colours even in dark settings. Not once did I need to go to full manual mode to achieve the photo I needed. In fact most of the time I was shooting with P or A modes or the scene modes or when I was in a terrible hurry – the Intelligent Auto mode. With such capabilities in such a small body, I really don’t see the need for a bulky DSLR any more.   The Sony Alpha 5000 is available in Malaysia from 21 February 2014 onwards with the suggested retail price:- Single Lens Package (Body + 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens) at RM1,999 Twin Lens Package (Body + 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 + 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3) at RM2,799   For more info and the technical specs of the Sony Alpha 5000, head over to – http://bit.ly/1eLboU1   More info at http://www.sony.com.my or at https://www.facebook.com/SonyMalaysia   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/08/04/hospitality-news-august-2022/

Hospitality News – August 2022

Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur Welcomes New General Manager Blaise Montandon Blaise Montandon was appointed as the new general manager of the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, and eagerly joins the team now that Malaysia has reopened its borders and is once more welcoming visitors from abroad. Montandon, who arrived from the breezy coastlines of Vietnam, brings vibrant energy, buoyant positivity, and a wealth of experience about opulent hospitality with him. “The past two years have brought so many changes, including what people want from travel. Connection and personalization are more important than ever,” says Blaise. “At Four Seasons, we have long believed that life is richer when we truly connect with each other, and with the world around us.” Blaise Montandon The Hotel team is already coming up with fresh and meaningful ways for visitors to rediscover Kuala Lumpur under his direction. Blaise’s objective is straightforward: “for people to fall in love with this dynamic, kaleidoscopic city.” He adopts a resort-style strategy in which he assumes responsibility for the guest’s entire stay, both on and off the property. Interestingly, Blaise applies the above philosophy not just to vacationers – but also to those travelling for work. He believes business travellers, too, want to engage with the destination, but have a limited amount of time and energy to spare, which is why Four Seasons is also expanding its portfolio of experiences tailored for business travellers: “think short, convenient and unique activities that make a work trip to Kuala Lumpur all the more attractive.” Growing up in a small Swiss town, young Blaise first fell in love with the idea of hotels while holidaying with his parents around the country and in neighbouring regions. “I was fascinated by it all. The energy, the glamour, the opportunity to meet people from around the world. Even as a kid, I knew this was what I wanted to do.” He gained experience at two renowned hotels in Geneva after graduating from the Hospitality Business School in Lausanne and studied management at the University of Lausanne. He has since managed hospitality teams in a variety of places, including Singapore, Japan, China, Thailand, and India, in addition to assignments in Europe and North Africa. He most recently held the position of General Manager at the Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An in Vietnam. Blaise’s journey through the industry has been somewhat unique because of his zest for new challenges and willingness to learn “how things work from the inside”: from finance to sales and marketing to operations and development, though a wide range of pre-openings and multi-use development projects. Along the process, he has seen how important it is to focus on developing a close-knit team, having fun at work, and spreading happiness and optimism to everyone — including visitors, employees, and the community. In his current role, Blaise is looking forward to cementing the status of Four Seasons Hotel  Kuala Lumpur as a favourite not just among global travellers but also local residents and expats. “Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, take visitors out for a good time, or enjoy a staycation with loved ones, we want to be the Hotel of choice for the Kuala Lumpur community,” he says. On a personal level, he is eager to experience the city’s culinary scene, particularly Kuala Lumpur’s renowned street cuisine. Exploring the local art scene through museums, galleries, and festivals is also on the agenda. Blaise is a creative thinker who enjoys discovering different cultures through their art forms since “they disclose so much about a country and its people.” Virtù Lights Up The Night With 12 New Cocktails And A Live Dj To Spin The Soundtrack VIRT at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi offers the ideal location for a sky bar rendezvous with its freshly crafted cocktails and irresistible daily drinking rituals. This chic bar has a cocktail (and a tale!) up its sleeve for every occasion, from after-work get-togethers with coworkers to birthday celebrations with friends. Additionally, the pub now hosts a live DJ every Friday and Saturday from 8:30 to 11:00 p.m. The Paris-meets-Tokyo bar, perched on the 39th level of the hotel, offers several settings to suit any mood. Sit at the bar to talk with mixologists and observe their craft in action, or choose a table near the window for sparkling views of the Tokyo skyline. More private dining places, ideal for secluded get-togethers with close friends or romantic date nights, are tucked away behind the multicoloured stained-glass wall. With lively views of the entire bar, larger parties can take seats at the main table or on the high sofas. The skilled bartenders at VIRT pay respect to the art of fine drinking by fusing traditional French flavours and rituals with contemporary Japanese methods and seasonal ingredients. A world-class selection of vintage French spirits and Japanese whiskies is also available. Guests can now explore a third edition of the cocktail menu, featuring 12 brand-new drinks woven around the seven virtues of VIRTÙ. These timeless virtues are drawn from traditional Japanese tales and French folklore. The “Loyalty” selection features two cocktails with intriguing connections to the legendary story of Hachiko the dog. The Smoked Ume Fashioned, a blend of homemade brandy Umeshu with Japanese whisky and Hinoki bitters, has Ume (plum) blossoms as its key ingredient. Tsu, the hometown of Hachiko’s master, is famous for these blossoms, signalling “fidelity” in the language of flowers. The Someiyoshino, meanwhile, finds its genesis in Akita, the Japanese town to which Hachiko’s breed belongs. The region is known for its sticky rice, which forms the foundation of this layered cocktail – a medley of rice shochu, sake and sakura liqueur, accented with citrus notes. The “Belief” curation invites connoisseurs to savour the best of both worlds with Chuchoter. A base of French gin and Japanese shochu is elevated with the gentle sweetness of kumquat, whose flowers symbolize gratitude. This drink is inspired by the words of thanks whispered by Jean Valjean in Les Miserables, a masterpiece of French literature. Or taste the virtue of “Bravery” with the Takara, reflecting the classic Japanese tale of Momotaro. The star ingredient is Hekishu whisky from the Aichi Prefecture, home to the Momotaro Shrine and the fabled residence of Momotaro’s grandparents. This concoction of whisky, sweet vermouth and chartreuse shimmers with gold leaf, a nod to the glittering treasure brought back by the folk hero. Those in the mood for l’amour can sip Thé Hoji Épicé, a “Love” cocktail crafted with Hoji tea vodka, Hoji tea liqueur and ginger beer, anchored with a rose-shaped ice cube that slowly infuses the drink with notes of cranberry. The menu also features a selection of frequently updated micro-seasonal cocktails. VIRTÙ’s mixologists take an innovative approach to seasonality, dividing Japan’s four major seasons further into 12 micro-seasons, inspired by the traditional Nijusseki calendar. In July 2022, drinks will feature locally harvested peaches and watermelon, while August 2022 brings the unique taste of Muscat grapes and Japanese pine. Photo credits: Respective brands and properties Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/02/23/burberry-womenswear-february-2016/

Burberry Womenswear February 2016

[Fashion]   Burberry has taken its Womenswear February 2016 collection to its 121 Regent Street flagship store, giving audiences the opportunity to view, pre-order and personalise pieces shown on the runway at its show on 22 February 2016. The latest collection – called “A Patchwork” – was revealed at Burberry’s custom-built show venue in London’s Kensington Gardens, with hair by Sam McKnight, and accompanied by a live performance by award-winning British musician Jake Bugg. Models walking the show included Edie Campbell, Ruth Bell, May Bell, Hayett Belarbi McCarthy and Rebekka Eriksen. Over 1000 guests attended including Burberry campaign stars Naomi Campbell, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Suki Waterhouse, Bella Yentob, Amber Anderson and Josh Whitehouse, as well as Ellie Goulding, Na Ying, Tom Odell, Claire Maguire, Gary Powell, Lianne La Havas, Nicholas Hoult, Noomi Rapace, Clémence Poésy, Laura Haddock, Han Hyo Joo, Riley Keough, Alexa Chung, Erin O’Connor, Elisa Sednaoui, Jack Guinness, Tali Lennox, Lily Donaldson, Mario Testino, Jamal Edwards, Laura Bailey, Olivia Palermo, Storm Keating, Jemma Mornington, Donna Air, Harley Viera-Newton and Elena Perminova. Burberry’s runway collections were available to buy immediately after the show online and in-store globally, with the February 2016 collection is now on display at the 121 Regent Street store, and will subsequently move to the Burberry Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré store in Paris on 1 March. Through the Burberry app for Apple TV, from today, viewers can also explore the collection’s looks, designs and products in greater detail than ever before using their Apple Remote, following the live stream of the show. In another first for the brand, viewers are also able to request a call from a Burberry Customer Service Consultant to pre-order select pieces from the collection. Select outerwear and bags from the collection can be purchased and personalised on Burberry.com until 7 March, for delivery ahead of their arrival in store, through the brand’s Runway Made to Order service. The full show soundtrack will be available to purchase through the iTunes store and for streaming through the Burberry Apple Connect page on Apple Music. The soundtrack performed live by Jake Bugg features his latest single ‘On My One’, performed live for the first time, along with ‘Country Song’, ‘Someone Told Me’, ‘A Song About Love’ and ‘Me and You’. An exclusive interview with Jake Bugg will also be available to view as part of the show experience on the Burberry app for Apple TV. The womenswear collection features a mix of patterns and textures influenced by British artists, musicians and history. Accessories: Introducing the latest additions to Burberry’s accessories collection, The Patchwork and The Buckle Boot. The Patchwork: A collection of bags inspired by the belt buckle from the brand’s iconic trench coat. Each one-of-a-kind bag is individually designed and named. With a variety of colours, textures, fabrics and embellishments, each bag features a polished buckle and can be worn as a shoulder or crossbody, or carried as a clutch. Customers can select an exclusive bag design, which can be personalised with up to three initials as part of Burberry’s Runway Made to Order service. The Buckle Boot: Inspired by the distinctive patchwork details present throughout the collection and by the classic wellington boot, the structured ankle boot comes in snakeskin and rubberised leather with a raised heel and accentuated tread. Textures and fabrics: Glossy python, metallic floral and geometric jacquards, double-construction cashmere, python-trim shearling, brushed wool mohair checks, military Melton, hand-sewn sequin florals, framed lightweight lamé, printed python georgette, handworked fil coupé silk, glossy technical down shell, silkscreen floral lamé Colours: Parade red, sapphire blue, military green, black, mustard, powder blue, metallic teal, white, gunmetal, regimental navy Silhouettes: Cashmere military coats, aviators, duffle coats, field jackets, furtrimmed puffers, regimental jackets, trench coats, cape coats, cape jackets, patchwork skirted dresses, pleated dresses, panelled T-shirt dresses, flared officer trousers, cropped military trousers Techniques: Double-faced fabrics, intricate embroidery, leather buffing with stone for a high-shine finish, handmade appliqué, artisanal fil coupé, regimental piping, bugle bead embroidery, patchworked panelling Make-up: Wendy Rowe – previewing new additions to Burberry make-up inspired by the runway collection and influenced by the graphic sequin embroidery and electric colour palette seen at the show     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/2013/11/16/klims-2013-hall-1-toyota-and-lexus/

KLIMS 2013 – Hall 1 – Toyota and Lexus

[Automotive] UMW TOYOTA MOTOR Moves Forward at the KUALA LUMPUR INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2013 . . UMW Toyota Motor’s lineup at KLIMS 2013 (in Hall 1) includes five Toyota models (including two concept vehicles) and four Lexus models which includes the Lexus F Sport Roadbike. According to UMW Toyota Motor President, Datuk Ismet Suki, “We are indeed glad to be participating again this year in the KL International Motor Show, an event that we have been closely associated with in previous years. This time around, we will display some of our newer and more interesting vehicles, which we are confident, will take well with visitors, these include some never-seen-before concept and hybrid models, for which Toyota and Lexus have been well renowned.” Amidst a lineup of Toyota models, UMW Toyota Motor will feature its NS4 Plug-in Hybrid and the Toyota Fun-Vii (short for Fun Vehicle interactive internet). Among its many features, the NS4 boasts outstandingly with environment performance, advanced safety such as the Pre-collision system (PCS) with Collision-avoidance assist and a forward-looking design that connects technology with people, and subsequently, people with society at large. It makes use of Toyota’s Plug-In technology which represents the synergistic infusion between hybrid and electric vehicles. The showcase of the NS4 Plug-in Hybrid represents Toyota’s leverage on its research and development to portray what eco-friendly vehicles would be like in the not too distant future. The Fun-Vii concept, on the other hand, is a concept vehicle that looks towards a future where people, society and cars are linked together. Amongst its nifty features, the Fun-Vii includes an Augmented Reality (AR) navigation system and the ability to charge itself wirelessly and change its body colour with a smartphone. Other Toyota models on display will include the Toyota Vios TRD Sportivo, the Toyota Previa and the Malaysian concept car of Toyota Camry Hybrid, which Malaysians recently got to see for the first time at the recent Greentech and Eco Products & Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM 2013). The Toyota Camry Hybrid is a 2.5L Full Hybrid vehicle, powered by Toyota’s renowned Hybrid Synergy Drive system. UMW Toyota Motor plans to introduce the mass production car to the Malaysian market as a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) model which will allow for competitive pricing of the hybrid in this country. For more information visit http://www.toyota.com.my . . UMW Toyota Motor’s luxury marque, Lexus, features four models including the Lexus LFA, which features a V10 engine and a CFRP (Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic) body. Other models which will be on display include the Lexus LS 460L, the Lexus IS 250 F Sport and the Lexus ES 250 Luxury. The Lexus lineup features for the first time the Lexus F- Sport Roadbike. Embodying Lexus’ iconic LFA philosophy, the bike carries with it the essence of Lexus’ LFA supercar into a bike. Its frame uses the same CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic) material as the LFA’s body. The 22-speed shifting mechanism uses a leading-edge electric control system, enabling swift and sure shift changes under virtually any conditions. Below are some photos from the Lexus display. . . The Toyota and Lexus booths are side by side in Hall 1 at KLIMS 2013. For show and ticket info you can read my general info post on KLIMS 2013 – https://timchew.net/2013/11/15/kuala-lumpur-international-motor-show-klims-2013-preview/ Photos shot with the Sony NEX-5T. More info at https://timchew.net/2013/10/01/sony-new-camera-2013-launch/ or http://www.sony.com.my Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2012/05/22/peugeot-408-launched-in-malaysia/

Peugeot 408 Launched in Malaysia

[Automotive News] Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Peugeot brand in Malaysia, launched the highly-anticipated all-new Peugeot 408 the replacement model for the 407. This replacement model is claimed to set the bar for performance, space, elegance and safety, in Malaysia’s C-segment market. “The all-new 408 is ideal for young professionals with families who are looking for a car that offers space, performance and elegance,” said SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman of the Naza Group of Companies at the launching of the all-new 408 at the new Peugeot Blue Box Glenmarie. At the front, the all-new 408 features Peugeot’s trademark feline headlights, thin chrome strips on the radiator grille, and sculptured lines on the bonnet that flow naturally into the wide, slopping windscreen giving it a sleek and refined look. Inside, the all-new 408 offers the largest cabin space in its class. Its long 2,710 mm wheelbase, its width measuring 1,815 mm and its height at 1,525 mm provides ample leg room, elbow room and head room respectively. The all-new 408 features automatic dual-zone air-conditioning system with rear air-conditioning vents, World In Peugeot Sound with six speakers with CD/ MP3 playback capability, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, instrument panel LCD, tilt and telescopic steering and one-touch power windows with anti-pinch for all four windows.  The 408’s boot offers 562-litres of space which should fit a couple of golf bags. Other key features of the 408 Turbo include premium leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel with aluminium inserts, auto-dimming rear view mirror and a rear armrest with two cup holders. Both variants feature cruise control with a speed limiter, 17-inch alloy wheels, “Follow Me Home” functionality for the headlamps, sensor-activated headlights and wipers and automatic retractable side mirrors. . . POWERPLANT & TRANSMISSION The all-new 408 is available in two variants: a 408 Turbo and a 408 2.0. The 408 Turbo features a four-cylinder 1.6-litre twin scroll turbo high pressure engine with direct injection that pumps out 163 hp and 240 Nm of torque making it the most powerful C-segment sedan in the market. The Peugeot 308 also uses this engine however as the 408 is heavier than the 308 I expect the performance to be slightly less. Fitted with a six-speed auto adaptive transmission with Triptronic and a sport mode, the 408 Turbo has the capability of accelerating from 0-100 kph 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 215 kph. The 408 2.0 is powered by a four-cylinder 2-litre engine that produces 145 hp and 200 Nm of torque fitted with an auto adaptive gearbox with Triptronic and a sport mode. . . SUSPENSION Suspension wise the 408 is fitted with independent MacPherson-type struts and antiroll bar for the front suspension while at the rear, the suspension comprises of a deformable U-shaped cross member and an integrated antiroll bar to provide good vibration control and well-controlled body movement. An important point to note – the suspension settings for the 408 Turbo have been tuned for a sportier ride while the 408 2.0’s suspension offers more comfort. . . SAFETY In terms of safety, both variants feature two smart airbags, ABS, EBD and EBA, among others. The car has also been designed with a double-impact force dissipation channel to provide maximum passenger compartment protection. The 408 Turbo also comes with driver and front passenger side airbags, front and rear curtain airbags, electronic stability programme (ESP) and anti-skid regulation (ASR). The 408 is manufactured at Naza Automotive Manufacturing (NAM) in Gurun, Kedah and will also be exported to regional markets in the coming months. The 408 will come with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage together with Nasim’s existing lifetime 24-hours Peugeot Assistance service and its exclusive Peugeot Privilege membership to provide the best ownership experience for its customers. The all-new 408 was launched at the new Peugeot Blue Box Glenmarie which is scheduled to commence operations in June. Built at a cost of RM15 million, the 82,000 square foot facility will be Nasim’s flagship outlet in the country and will house the largest Peugeot service centre in the country with a capability of servicing 66 cars a day. . . PRICE The on-the-road price of the 408 Turbo is RM125,888 while the on-the-road price of the 408 2.0 is RM109,888. More info at www.peugeot.com.my Photo credits: Peugeot Malaysia and author’s own Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/07/05/lenovo-yoga-2-pro-13-tech-specs/

Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro-13 – Tech Specs

[Tech & Gadgets]   If you’re following my Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/timchewkc or my Instagram @timchew1311 you’d have noticed that I’ve been making some updates highlighting the Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 2 Pro-13 in various settings be it a cafe, office, or even by the poolside. The Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro comes loaded with a lot of features and here are some of them: 360-Degree Flip-and-Fold Design Change between four modes — Laptop, Stand, Tablet, and Tent, by just rotating the screen. It can rotate 360 degrees and the Lenovo Transition automatically switches system settings and locks the keyboard in place.  Use the touchscreen display in tablet mode when you don’t need a physical keyboard, or flip it to stand or tent mode to watches movies. No detaching and attaching keyboards required here.   Apps for Every Mode Yoga 2 Pro now comes loaded with custom software that helps you get the best of every mode. The exclusive Lenovo Recommends software recognizes when you switch modes and recommends preloaded apps that work best such as the Phone Companion, Camera Man, Photo Touch, and Chef.   Quad HD+ Display The Yoga 2 Pro’s super-high-resolution QHD+ (3200 x 1800) 10-point multi-touch Corning glass display gives a beautiful and sharp display, while the in-plane switching (IPS) technology assures that images will be crisp across a wide viewing angle which is really useful when I’m giving presentations to my clients.   Cutting-Edge Processing The Yoga 2 Pro is powered by the new 4th generation Intel® Core™ processor, giving powerful performance and the ability to multitask without sacrificing speed. In fact, I never once faced any lag even though I was watching a movie with multiple programmes running. It even comes with built-in security features to help keep your data safer.   Thin and Light Design; Long Battery Life The Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro weighs in at only 1.39kg (3.1 lbs) and is just 15.5mm (0.61″) thick, making it really portable, and comes with up to 9 hours (claimed) of battery life. This means you can just slip it into a sleeve and carry it with you without bringing along the charger in a bulky laptop bag.   Lenovo Motion Control The webcam can be used as an input device — flip pages, rewind/forward music, change volume, and gesture other simple commands with the flick of a hand.   Lenovo Voice Control Lenovo Voice Control lets you perform tasks on your Yoga 2 Pro by simply telling it what to do or asking a question.   Superfast SSD Storage This is one really noticeable difference especially if you’re used to the standard SATA hard disk drives as the SSD comes with fast read/write speeds.   Backlit AccuType Keyboard The AccuType keyboard is ergonomically designed to make typing more comfortable and to reduce errors, while backlighting is a feature that I found most useful especially in low-light settings.   Stereo Speakers With Dolby® Home Theater® The Yoga 2 Pro’s speakers deliver impressive stereo sound despite the size of the ultrabook, while Dolby Home Theater provides an immersive audio experience.   Green Certification The Yoga 2 Pro is the first laptop to earn Green Mark certification from TUV. The award recognizes Lenovo’s history of social responsibility, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, and low energy consumption.     Technical Specifications Model: 59-403332 – Silver Grey Processor: Intel® Core™ i5-4200U (1.6Ghz up to 2.6Ghz, 3MB L3 Cache) Operating System: Windows 8.1 Display Type: 13.3″ high-resolution QHD+ (3200 x 1800) IPS wide-view display with 10-point multitouch technology System Graphics: Integrated Intel® HD graphics 4400 RAM: 4GB Hard Drive: 128GB SSD Battery: 4 Cells Weight: 1.39Kg USB: 1 x 2.0; 1 x 3.0 Bluetooth: BT 4.0 Dimensions (W x D x H): 330 mm x 220 mm x 15.5 mm (12.99″ x 8.66″ x 0.61″) Camera: 720p HD webcam Connectors: Audio Combo Jack (headphone and microphone), micro HDMI-out Card Reader: SD Sound: Integrated stereo speakers with Dolby® Home Theater® The Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro is currently selling at all Lenovo authorised distributors at a suggested retail price of  RM3,699.00 and comes with 2 Years Limited International Warranty Service (IWS). More info at http://www.lenovo.com/my/en/   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/03/08/dior-autumn-winter-2017-18-ready-to-wear-fashion-show-celebrities/

Dior Autumn Winter 2017-18 Ready to Wear Fashion Show – Celebrities

[Luxury Fashion]   A Dior fashion show will always attract many international A-list celebrities and personalities, and the Dior Autumn Winter 2017-18 Ready to Wear fashion show held at the Rodin Museum in Paris during the Paris Fashion Week on 3 March 2017 was a glittery star-studded affair. Among the notable celebrities were Rihanna, Uma Thurman, Haley Bennett, Kate Moss, Ruth Wilson, Rosamund Pike, Sienna Miller, Alicia Keys, Eva Herzigova, Paula Beer, Amira Casar, Karlie Kloss, Lottie Moss, Liu Yifei, Aymeline Valade, Erin O’connor, Oulaya Amamra, Anais Demoustier, Audrey Marnay, Jeanne Damas, Sai Bennett, Olivia Palermo, Elena Perminova, Lucie De La Falaise, Akimoto Kozue, Wang Zi Wen, Winnie Harlow, Bianca Jagger & Daisy Lowe. Malaysia’s very own celebrity and socialite Marion Caunter was also one of those afforded a front row seat at the show.   View this post on Instagram En route to the Dior show.. #diorAW17 #pfw A post shared by marioncaunter (@marioncaunter) on Mar 3, 2017 at 4:47am PST View this post on Instagram Just outside the show…. #diorAW17 #pfw A post shared by marioncaunter (@marioncaunter) on Mar 3, 2017 at 5:39am PST View this post on Instagram Fun, feminine and flirty. In love! #diorAW17 #pfw A post shared by marioncaunter (@marioncaunter) on Mar 3, 2017 at 7:12am PST View this post on Instagram Details detail details! #diorAW17 #pfw A post shared by marioncaunter (@marioncaunter) on Mar 3, 2017 at 7:25am PST View this post on Instagram Modern, fresh and exciting! Merci @dior. I loved every bit of it. ❤❤❤ A post shared by marioncaunter (@marioncaunter) on Mar 3, 2017 at 7:37am PST View this post on Instagram Last night in Dior. A post shared by marioncaunter (@marioncaunter) on Mar 3, 2017 at 10:58pm PST   Rihanna porte un manteau en laine noire Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior.  Elle porte également les lunettes  de soleil  J’adior. Rihanna is wearing a back wool  coat and Dior accessories. She is also wearing the J’adior sunglasses.    Uma Thurman porte  une veste en laine noire sur une jupe  en laine noire brodée de fleurs Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Elle porte également les boucles d’oreilles Rose Dior Pré Catelan de Dior Joaillerie. Uma Thurman is wearing a Dior black wool jacket and a black skirt with embroidery and  Dior accessories. She is also wearing the Rose Dior Pré Catelan earrings by Dior Fine Jewellery.    Haley Bennett porte une robe en guipure blanche Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Haley Bennett is wearing a Dior white guipure dress and  Dior accessories.    Kate Moss porte une veste  en cuir beige Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Kate Moss is wearing a Dior beige leather jacket and  Dior accessories.    Ruth Wilson porte  une robe en mousseline en dégradé rouge et rose Dior  ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Ruth Wilson is wearing a Dior red and pink dégradé chiffon dress   with Dior accessories.   Rosamund Pike port  une robe en crêpe de laine blanche et des accessoires Dior.  Rosamund Pike is wearing a Dior white wool crepe  dress  and  Dior accessories.   Sienna Miller porte un manteau  en feutre de laine noire brodée de fleurs sur une robe en velours noir avec imprimé fleurs bohémiennes Dior. Elle porte également des souliers Dior. Sienna Miller is wearing a Dior black felted wool coat with flowers embroidery with a Dior black velvet dress with bohemian flowers print.  She is also wearing Dior shoes.   Alicia Keys porte une veste tailleur en laine noire Dior. Alicia Keys is wearing a Dior black wool suit jacket.    Eva Herzigova porte une veste en cuir noir sur une robe en soie rose pâle à broderies ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Elle porte également  les boucles d’oreilles Milieu de Siècle et la montre La Mini D de Dior Satine de Dior Joaillerie. Eva Herzigova is wearing a Dior black jacket with a pale light pink dress with flowers embroidery  and  Dior accessories. She  is also wearing the Milieu de Siècle earrings and La Mini D de Dior Satine timepiece by Dior Fine Jewellery.   Paula Beer porte un pull  en laine noire brodée de fleurs sur une jupe en coton rouge Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Paula Beer is wearing a Dior black wool sweater with flowers embroidery with a Dior red cotton skirt and  Dior accessories.    Amira Casar porte un gilet en shearling noir vernis sur une blouse en plumetis Dior et une jupe en velours noir brodé de fleurs Dior. Amira Casar is wearing a Dior black patent shearling vest, a Dior black dotted blouse  with a Dior velvet skirt with flowers embroidered.    Karlie Kloss porte un tee-shirt en coton noir imprimé  avec une jupe en mousseline  noire imprimée sur lingerie de maille noire Dior. Elle porte également des accessoires Dior. Karlie Kloss is wearing a Dior black cotton print T-shirt with a Dior black chiffon skirt printed and Dior black knitted underwear. She is also wearing  Dior accessories.    Lottie Moss porte une chemise en coton blanc Dior sur un pantalon en coton bleu marine Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Lottie Moss is wearing a Dior white cotton shirt with a Dior navy blue cotton pants and Dior accessories.    Liu Yifei porte une veste en cuir noir Dior sur une robe longue en tulle chair brodé Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Elle porte la bague Milieu de Siècle de Dior Joaillerie. Liu Yifei is wearing a Dior black leather jacket with a Dior embroidered nude tulle long dress  and Dior accessories. She is also wearing  the Milieu de Siècle ring by Dior Fine Jewellery. Aymeline Valade porte un manteau en cachemire noir Dior,  un bustier en coton noir Dior, une jupe en soie imprimée à pois  Dior  et une lingerie en maille noire Dior. Elle porte également des accessoires Dior. Aymeline Valade is wearing a Dior black cashmere coat, a Dior black cotton bustier top, a Dior polka dot print black skirt and  Dior accessories.    Erin O’Connor porte une robe en demin bleu brodé sur une blouse en detelle noire ansi que des accessoires Dior. Erin O’Connor is wearing a Dior  embroidered blue denim dress with a Dior black lace blouse and Dior accessories.    Oulaya Amamra porte  une veste  en laine noire avec détails de cuir Dior, un teeshirt en coton noir imprimé Dior, une jupe en tulle chair brodé Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Oulaya Amamra is wearing a Dior black jacket with  leather details, a Dior embroidered beige tulle skirt and Dior accessories.    Anais Demoustier porte  une longue robe en velours noir Dior ainsi que des souliers Dior. Anais Demoustier is wearing a Dior black velvet dress  and  Dior shoes.    Audrey Marnay porte un chemiser en soie et dentelle noire sur un pantalon en laine noire Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Audrey Marnay is wearing a Dior black silk and lace blouse with a Dior black wool pants and  Dior accessories.    Jeanne Damas porte un manteau en velours marron Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Jeanne Damas is wearing a Dior brown velvet coat and  Dior accessories.    Sai Bennett porte une robe en velours noir Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Sai Bennett is wearing a Dior black velvet dress with  Dior accessories.    Olivia Palermo porte un manteau en cachemire noir Dior sur une jupe en coton noir Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Olivia Palermo is wearing a Dior  black cashmere coat with a Dior black cotton  skirt and  Dior accessories.    Elena Perminova porte une robe en mousseline de soie rose pâle Dior  ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Elena Perminova is wearing a Dior light pink silk chiffon and  Dior accessories.    Lucie de la Falaise porte un pull en cachemire noir sur une jupe en  mousseline de soie imprimée zodiaque ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Lucie de la Falaise is wearing a Dior black cashmere sweater with a Dior zodiac printed  silk chiffon skirt and  Dior accessories.    Akimoto Kozue porte une robe longue en  tulle noir brodé d’oiseaux et de papillons Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Akimoto Kozue is wearing a Dior tulle long dress with birds and butterflies embroidery and  Dior accessories.    Wang Zi Wen porte  une chemise en crêpe Georgette écru Dior sur une jupe en tulle écru brodé Dior et  lingerie de maille écrue Dior.  Elle porte également des accessoires Dior. Wang Zi Wen is wearing a Dior ecru crêpe georgette shirt with  a Dior embroidered ecru tulle skirt and Dior ecru knit lingerie. She is also wearing  Dior accessories.   Winnie Harlow porte un pull en laine blanche Dior sur une jupe en coton beige Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Winnie Harlow is wearing a Dior white wool sweater with a Dior beige cotton skirt and  Dior accessories.   Bianca Jagger porte un manteau en laine rose pâle Dior sur un chemiser en crêpe de soie blanche  Dior et un pantalon en laine blanche Dior.  Bianca Jagger is wearing a Dior light pink wool coat with a Dior white silk crepe shirt and a Dior white wool pants.    Daisy Lowe porte une robe en laine noire Dior ainsi que des accessoires Dior. Daisy Lowe is wearing a Dior black wool crepe dress and  Dior accessories.   The DIOR boutiques in Kuala Lumpur are located at:   LC-G01& G23b, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   G20,21,22,25, 26,27 &28, Indulge Floor, Starhill Gallery, 181, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 603 21431886 For more info, head over to http://www.dior.com/ Images courtesy of Dior Malaysia.   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/07/15/panasonic-lumix-dmc-g6-review/

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 Review

[ADV] . In the last month, you may have noticed that Andy Kho and I were playing with a new DSLR that was not even launched in the Malaysian market. In fact we were pretty impressed with its performance and we took it along with us in place of our usual cameras for a couple of outings – https://timchew.net/2013/07/13/kirin-ichiban-media-preview-dinner/ https://timchew.net/2013/07/14/ramadan-food-review-grand-millennium-hotel-kl/ https://timchew.net/2013/07/15/chivalrystyle-com-launch-kl-live/ https://timchew.net/2013/07/16/house-of-haagen-daz-party/ and our little adventure with this cam culminated in the launch itself – https://timchew.net/2013/07/08/panasonic-lumix-g6-gf6-and-lf1/ Anyway before I go on to tell you about the camera, I think you better hear what celebrity photographer Andy Kho has to say about it first (BTW you can click on each pic to view the larger version): Personally when it comes to a camera’s functionality and performance, I am very particular since I’m a professional photographer. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 is small, lightweight and has great economic. Love the ergonomics of the G6. The shutter button is placed at the right angle of approximately 45 degrees, which in my perspective is the perfect angle for your thumb when you want to take selfies. Most cameras have an angle of less than 20 degrees so you can’t actually half-press the shutter button to focus before shooting. With the 45 angle, you can actually hold the camera firmly and it won’t slip off your hand (happened to me a few times with other small cameras). Love the flip LCD that lets you view yourself and I bet a lot of girls would love this too. . Here’s a selfie shot with MHB’s Jiayeen – truly effortless! The filter tools are great and are usually found on compacts or micro 4/3 cameras so it’s a nice change to have them on a DSLR. I shot Crystal using the soft focus filter which gave a rather dreamy feel to the photo. And here’s another pic of Crystal this time using the “star filter”. As we were at a food and beer pairing event, I discovered that the scene mode is great and I find it amazing that G6 actually has “Appetizing Food” and “Sweet Dessert” modes! The details of the food are very clear The Full-area Touch AF function was useful too in creating shots where you wanted to have the “bokeh” effect. The lighting in the restaurant used a lot of incandescent light bulbs which cast the whole room in a very warm yellow light but the auto white balance managed to balance it out. I am amazed at the features and ability of the G6 especially in a club environment. The Face Detection proved it’s worth in this pic by focusing on Chelsea’s face rather then the closest object to the lens. The flash evenly filled the subject too without being too harsh at any particular area. Crystal and Valerie loved the flip LCD monitor which allowed them to take this selfie easily. . Focusing in such low light with speed and accuracy is something I look for in a camera that I want to bring with me to a party when I’m not working as a photographer. The flash works well with the multi-point metering mode. I’m glad Panasonic included two (2) very important features for the flash which is the option to use either 1st or 2nd curtain sync as well as the ability to control the flash EV. This is something I use all the time. Very important in night life photography and definitely a must have. The Auto White Balance (AWB) on the Lumix DMC-G6 has great improvement over the previous models too and the White Balance can be easily adjusted to suit the situation although I found that the AWB to be pretty accurate so I left it on AWB most of the time. . Later that week we headed over to the Grand Millennium Hotel in KL for their Ramadan Buffet review and here’s a shot of the salad bar. Love how the different colours stood out and how sharp and crisp the image turned out. This pic was shot with the G6 paired with the LUMIX G (H-HS12035) X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. Lens and is one of the best clubbing shots that I’ve taken without using my usual very expensive gear. Am very impressed with the way the camera captured the ambient light while keeping the subject in pin-point focus! . Using the G6 and the X Vario 12-35mm f/2.8 is a perfect match. It’s AF speed, accuracy and sharpness amazed me. Thumbs up to you Panasonic for making that lens. It’s the number one lens on my micro 4/3 wish list. LUMIX G (H-HS12035) X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. Lens Nano Surface Coating technology for dramatic reduction of ghost and flare F2.8 brightness over the entire zoom range POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) that suppresses large, slow movement 2x more effectively Capable of using under harsh conditions with its splash / dust proof design Outstandingly compact and light-weight among the lens with the same level of performance . Well that’s what a fully capable and skilled photographer can do with the Lumix G6. But what about the rest of us? (I stopped using DSLRs a couple of years back as I really preferred the mobility of compact/ micro 4/3 cameras) but at least I still remember how to use them. So after Andy had his fill of the camera I took the Lumix G6 for a little test-drive and here’s what I shot. . The G6 was my primary camera at the Celcom 4G LTE Blogger Race in Sunway Lagoon and you can head over to the album on the Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers Facebook page to see all the photos that I shot with the G6. Loved how the camera was ready to shoot 0.5 secs after turning it on. Great for action shots! I brought the G6 to the House of Haagen Daz event and decided to have a a go at shooting the cocktails. Here’s the photo that was shot by the professional photographer And here’s what I shot with the G6. Love how the details turned out especially the chocolate powder on top! Here’s another cocktail that I shot with a flash as it was rather dim, Shooting food or drinks with flash of not often a good idea however there was not much available light where I was and this actually turned out alright. And here’s my partner in crime enjoying the cocktail. Girls absolutely hate being shot with the flash but in this case even she (who can be terribly fussy at times) was pleased with the photo. You know how we are so crazy about snapping food before we eat and uploading on Instagram/ Facebook? Well with the G6 I could quickly and easily transfer the pics to my smartphone then upload to FB/ Insta before my char kuey teow got cold! Char siew never looked this good!   . I was shooting with the kit lens and rarely went full manual with the G6 because most of the time I was shooting on the go and didn’t have the time to adjust the settings so I was pretty much shooting using P or A or sometimes the scene modes. The ease of operation was something I liked and the quality of the photos is really quite astounding for a DSLR at that price (you can scroll to the bottom of this post for the price and different packages). . Here is more detailed info on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6: 16.05-Megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor and New Venus Engine for Even Higher Picture Quality The DMC-G6 integrates 16.05-megapixel Digital Live MOS which boasts high resolution and high sensitivity image recording with minimum noise. Panasonic adds its original pixel mix technology to the sensor to maximize the speed advantage native to the CMOS sensor. The current process is designed exclusively for the digital Live MOS sensor to minimize the noise generation. The fine wiring around the photodiode realizes high aperture ratio, which results in high resolution and excellent S/N ratio while high performance transistor encourages high speed signal processing. The image processor Venus Engine is also newly developed to feature its advanced noise reduction systems. By extending the control level of noise, controllable area of noise is expanded by approx.64x in size. This makes it possible to remove large block of noise which was formally hard to detect and helps produce clear, smooth image especially for the nighttime scenery. In addition, the Multi-process NR (Noise Reduction) works in two separate steps allowing even finer control over noise level. The texture of noise itself, regardless of the noise size, is improved with this deliberate control, which is resulting in the reproduction of smooth human skin even in high sensitivity recording. Furthermore, the optimum design of newly adopted Detail Reproduction Filter Process enhances the limit resolution by max. 3% and the contrast of middle to high range by max. 5%. Plus, the advanced Intelligent D-range Control offers wider dynamic range while maintaining the smooth gradation thanks to the high-precision signal processing. Suppressing both blocked shadows and blown highlights, every part of an image – from dark to bright – is faithfully reproduced. The combination of the digital Live MOS Sensor and the Venus Engine achieves ISO3200 (Auto) and max. ISO 25600 (Extended). The Low Light AF in DMC-G6 gains higher performance in such as moonlight even without AF assist lamp to set focus on the subject more precisely. . High Speed Response with Advanced AF System for Fleeting Photo Opportunities All cameras of LUMIX G adopt Contrast AF for its focus system. Compared with the Phase difference system AF, the Contrast AF boasts higher accuracy especially in shooting with bright lens with small F value. The DMC-G6 features high-speed Light Speed AF, making it possible to capture even the fast-moving subject clearly. Not only the accuracy but also the speed of AF in DMC-G6 surpasses the high-end DSLRs with Phase difference. The camera and the lens exchange the digital signal at max. 240 fps to minimize the time to focus. The DMC-G6 realizes the high speed burst shooting at 7 fps in 16.05-megapixel full resolution and max. 40 fps using an electronic shutter. Also, AF Tracking enables consecutive shooting to capture moving subject in sharp focus at 5 fps. Combined with the Full-area Touch AF, it is possible to set focus on any point in the field of view which realizes quick and intuitive focusing operation with free frame composition.　In addition, the newly adopted Touch AE (Auto Exposure) function allows setting focus and exposure at a single touch on the subject displayed on the monitor. With DMC-G6, it is selectable to set focus and/or exposure according to the shooting situation. For more practical control over focusing, the DMC-G6 incorporates Focus Peaking function that shows the peak of focus in MF and AF+MF mode. The DMC-G6 incorporates high speed response desired for the digital single lens mirrorless camera, taking only approx. 0.5 sec* to get ready to shoot after startup. The control on DMC-G6 is smooth and easy with optimum layout of operation devices. The function lever allows direct adjustment of allotted function – zoom**, exposure or aperture*** control, which works for magnification in playback mode and page flip in menu. The compatibility with the UHS-I (Ultra High Speed I) SDXC/SDHC Memory Card allows faster data writing even in RAW recording mode. *With H-FS1442A, based on the CIPA standard. ** When used with Power Zoom lenses H-PS14042 or H-PS45175. *** In M (Manual) mode. . Highest Level in Class – Stunning Video Recording Performance Succeeded from the LUMIX G Flagship All LUMIX G cameras, especially the DMC-GH3, are renowned for their capability of high quality video recording. The DMC-G6 records stunningly smooth, high-resolution full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p (60 Hz) / 50p (50 Hz) videos in AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4 / H.264) format. The DMC-G6 also supports 1080/24p native mode with 24 Mbps in AVCHD format bringing impressive afterimage to the footage. In addition, the P/A/S/M mode also lets users enjoy professional-like expressive video recording. The full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p (60 Hz) / 50p (50 Hz) video can also be recorded in MP4 at 28 Mbps, to play it back directly on the PC or other portable electronic devices without a need of conversion. In addition to the practical full-time AF, the Touch AF in video recording also lets users enjoy professional-like rack focusing. Just by pointing the subject, the focus is shifted to it and let it stand out to attract attention. The AF Tracking locks on the subject with focus even it moves. High quality sound can be recorded with Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator. A Wind Cut function is also available to block out most of the noise from background wind. In addition to the built-in stereo microphone, the DMC-G6 is equipped with two 3.5mm terminals for external microphone to comply with serious sound recording. The Extra Tele Conversion function virtually extends the zoom range Max.4.8x without deterioration of image quality in smaller resolution. The Time Lapse Shot automatically starts recording photos at time lapse sequence once the start time, interval and the number of pictures to shoot are set. The Stop Motion Animation function enables producing a stop motion (stop frame) video in camera with the pictures that are sequentially shot while moving the object by degrees. This effect makes the object appear as if it is moving by itself. – Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [AVCHD] is 29 minutes 59 seconds in Europe and some Asian areas. – Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [MP4] is 29 minutes 59 seconds or up to 4 GB. – You can check the recordable time on the monitor. (For [FHD] in [MP4] format, the file size is large and so the recordable time will drop below 29 minutes 59 seconds.) . Easy Wireless Connectivity via Wi-Fi® / NFC with Smartphones The DMC-G6 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology camera to offer more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with easy operation. All these flexible shooting / browsing / sharing style are made possible with the DMC-G6 and the Panasonic’s dedicated application software Panasonic Image App for iOS / Android smartphones/tablets. Users can connect the camera with a smartphone/tablet by just bringing them together. What is new is that the setup is extremely easy and finishes within a few seconds, making it possible to pair the camera directly to the smartphone/tablet without connection procedure of information input for authorization. Remote shooting of both photo and video* is available by using the smartphone/tablet for a remote shutter with a monitor which displayed live at smooth 30 fps. Not only releasing a shutter, zooming**, focusing and settings of shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation are all controllable with a smartphone/tablet. The Instant Transfer function allows the camera to transfer the photo data to the designated electronic devices automatically whenever shutter is released. In playback mode, users can also touch the image displayed on the camera to transfer it directly to the smartphone/tablet right on the spot. In addition, it is possible to tag the location information to the image by utilizing the GPS (Global Positioning System) log of a smartphone / tablet. Archiving images becomes easy. DMC-G6 transfers the data to PC or other compliant electronic devices automatically via the wireless access point (router) at home. Also, with Panasonic’s exclusive cloud service “LUMIX CLUB”, DMC-G6 can automatically synchronize images via internet with the designated devices and web services like Facebook™, Flickr™, Picasa™, Twitter™ or YouTube™. The Wi-Fi Direct™ function allows direct playback of images on the DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) – compliant VIERA HDTV***. *For remote shooting of video, start/stop recording is available over smartphone/tablet control **With LUMIX G Power Zoom Lens H-PS14042 or H-PS45175. *** Using [Playback on TV] of the Wi-Fi function, you can display images on a TV that supports the Digital Media Renderer (DMR) function of the DLNA standard. Please check the following website about the compatible devices for details. http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/ . New 1,440K-dot OLED LVF The large, bright 1,440K-dot equivalent OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) LVF (Live View Finder) with approx.100% field of view in 3:2 aspect boasts excellent color reproduction and astonishingly high contrast at 10,000:1 for outstanding viewability. The display time lag is minimized dramatically compared with the predecessor DMC-G5. The image output between the LVF and the rear LCD is switched automatically with the eye sensor on the LVF, which features options of sensitivity – high, low and off – to reduce false operation during touching on the rear monitor. . New 3-inch Free-angle In-Cell Touch Monitor The new 3-inch large, approx.1040K-dot high resolution monitor rotates 180° to the side and tilts 270° up and down boasting approx. 100% of field of view. The front panel is directly attached to the new In Cell Touch LCD without containing air layer in between. The result is that the reflection of external light is dramatically suppressed. Together with the increased resolution by approx.13% and improved color reproduction by approx.20%, the monitor for DMC-G6 secures higher visibility than ever. Plus, attenuation of transmitting backlight is minimized to achieve wide angle of view and by 25% of power saving. The free-angle monitor with a touch-screen operation makes both monitoring and touching at any physical position. The touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting but also for playing back images with outstanding visibility. The Touch Pad function enables using both LVF and monitor simultaneously to encourage more intuitive shooting. . Creative Control / Creative Panorama The popular Creative Control mode is upgraded by increasing its filter option from 14 (for DMC-G5) to 19 (for DMC-G6) adding new Old Days, Sunshine*, Bleach Bypass, Toy Pop, Fantasy in addition to the conventional Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, High Dynamic, Soft Focus*, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, One Point Color, Cross Process, Low Key, Toy Effect and Star Filter* and Miniature Effect** mode. Effect parameter of each mode is also adjustable. With the new Creative Panorama function, it is possible to shoot a horizontal / vertical panoramic image with consequent shots taken by overlaying the previous picture and to put on a filter effect of Creative Control***. * For photo only ** Sound will not be recorded with [MINIATURE EFFECT] in Creative Control Mode and approximately 1/10 of the time period is recorded. (If you record for 10 minutes, the resulting motion picture recording will be approximately 1 minute long) ***Some filters of Creative Control cannot be used in Creative Panorama mode. . Clear Retouch The Clear Retouch makes it is possible to erase unwanted objects or figures in an image by just tracing over them on LCD with a fingertip. They naturally disappear without destroying the image. Advanced iA+ (Intelligent Auto Plus Mode) and Scene Guide for Beginners For beginners of digital interchangeable lens system cameras, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode supports taking beautiful pictures with a variety of shooting-assist functions including AF Tracking, Intelligent D-range Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition and Intelligent ISO Control. The Intelligent Scene Selector now integrates Food Recognition mode. It detects food on the dish and captures it to look delicious. The iA Plus mode lets users adjust defocusing area in the background, exposure compensation and white balance for more flexible control. The Scene Guide* offers 23 sample pictures shot by professional photographers. Users can choose the one closer to the situation they are going to shoot and optimum parameters for shooting the scene will be automatically set. Furthermore, shooting procedure, technical advice and recommended interchangeable lens for the scene can be shown for users to learn photography. * Video recording using Scene Guide is not possible in some scenes. . Compact, Easy-to-use Design with a Variety of Color Selection The DMC-G6 features compact, easy-to-use design integrating useful built-in flash(GN 10 ISO160･m / GN 8 ISO100･m). Unlike other conventional big, heavy and black DSLRs, the DMC-G6 is available in black, white or silver to match the user’s preference. . PRICE G6K (14-42mm) = RM 2,699.00 G6X (14-42mm Power Zoom Lens) = RM3,299.00 G6W (14-42mm + 45-150mm) = RM3,499.00 . More info on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 at http://www.panasonic.com/my/consumer/cameras-camcorders.html or https://www.facebook.com/mypanasonic Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2023/01/31/valentines-day-2023-dining-at-marina-bay-sands-singapore/

Valentine’s Day 2023 Dining at Marina Bay Sands Singapore

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com From waterfront dining with spectacular views of the dazzling Marina Bay to sky-high dining from 57 floors above, Marina Bay Sands celebrates the season of love with a variety of exceptional set menus and Valentine’s Day 2023 themed creations from 11 award-winning restaurants. Sweeten Valentine’s Day with Black Tap’s Red Velvet Cake Shake Black Tap’s exclusive Red Velvet Cake Shake (S$24++) is available on 13 and 14 February 2023, and features a red velvet cake batter shake served in a towering glass with a vanilla frosted rim and red and white sprinkles, crowned with a slice of red velvet cake, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle.  In celebration of Glow Festival, the world’s first multi-sensory, wellness-themed festival space design concept taking place at Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Black Tap Singapore has specially created the G&T Punch (S$21++). Available from 1 to 12 February 2023, the fruity tipple boasts a refreshing blend of umeshu, lime juice, and vibrant indigo Butterfly Pea Gin. The first few guests to order the special concoction will also receive a complimentary wellness session at the Glow Festival. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/black-tap.html Boasting views of the mesmerising Marina Bay waterfront, Bread Street Kitchen & Bar sets the scene for a memorable dateBeef Wellington with truffle brie mash potatoes and seasonal vegetables This Valentine’s Day (14 February 2023), charm your significant other at Bread Street Kitchen & Bar Singapore over a three-course set dinner menu (S$120++ per person) with views of the glistening Marina Bay waters while revelling in a glass of welcome Prosecco and the amuse-bouche of oyster, chives, ginger-soy dressing. Diners can enjoy a choice of starters, from the signature potted salt beef brisket – best enjoyed atop seeded crackers and a dollop of piccalilli – to beetroot-cured salmon or a refreshing bowl of stilton, apples, celery, spiced walnut, endives and apple cider vinaigrette to whet their appetite. For mains, indulge in Bread Street Kitchen’s show-stopping beef wellington, a delightful roast accompanied by creamy truffle brie mash potatoes, seasonal vegetables and a side of red wine jus, or opt for comforting plates like creamy wild mushroom risotto topped with generous servings of parmesan and truffle basil pesto or the poached seabass in soy dashi broth. Cap off the evening with a special Valentine’s Day sweet treat – mango & passionfruit cheesecake, white chocolate, pistachio crumble with luscious mango sorbet – or pick the romantic heart of chocolate filled with premium pralines. Bread Street Kitchen’s Valentine’s Day menu is available on the evening of 14 February only. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/bread-street-kitchen.html Bone marrow flan, mushroom marmalade, Périgord black trufflesU.S.D.A Prime Illinois corn-fed 21-days aged steakMaine lobster, black truffle sabayon CUT by Wolfgang Puck, a one-Michelin starred restaurant assembles a luxurious four-course menu (S$250++ per person) exclusively available on 14 February 2023 (the a la carte menu will not be available). Begin the feast with two delightful amuse bouche featuring luscious Kaluga caviar, uni, dashi soy jelly, horseradish panna cotta, and the restaurant’s signature CUT ‘Sliders’ – before proceeding to a choice of premium starters such as the sautéed jumbo lump crab cake with basil aioli, tomato relish, micro cress, or the bone marrow flan, mushroom marmalade, Périgord black truffles.  For mains, indulge in CUT’s fine selection of award-winning steaks, ranging from the signature U.S.D.A Prime Illinois corn-fed 21-days aged steak to the premium wagyu beef such as the prized Snake River Farms Idaho American wagyu (top up an additional S$85++ for 170g filet mignon or S$95++ for 280g eye of rib steak) or the Hokkaido Snow New York sirloin steak served with yuzu Kosho butter (top up an additional S$145++ for a 150g steak). Diners with a penchant for seafood can also opt for the grilled French turbot, or supplement S$90++ to enjoy the whole roasted Maine lobster, black truffle sabayon (1kg). Pair mains with a trio of sharing sides for the table, including the fried pee wee potatoes, crisp shallots, garlic aioli; the roasted brussels sprouts, smoked bacon, cipollini; as well as the creamed spinach, fried organic egg. Close the memorable evening with a sharing dessert, and indulge in the rich Valrhona chocolate soufflé, crème fraiche cream, raspberry gelato, or the freshly baked warm butterscotch apple crumble, toasted almonds, Tahitian vanilla ice-cream. All couples will also receive a box of chocolates and a stalk of rose as a sweet memento. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/cut.html Toast to a romantic evening with db Bistro & Oyster Bar’s four-course Valentine’s Day menu This Valentine’s Day, ignite love and passion over db Bistro & Oyster Bar’s romantic four-course Valentine’s Day dinner (S$148++ per person), inspired by the freshest produce of the season. Commence the evening with briny oscietra caviar, served with broccoli mousseline and creamy lemon bavarois, before enjoying the refreshing Alaskan snow crab salad, enlivened with tart grapefruit, creamy avocado and spicy green chillis. The star of the meal is the Mediterranean sea bass ‘en papillote’, featuring a juicy filet baked within a paper envelope to lock in all its flavours. The dish is accompanied with crisp potato mille-feuille, fragrant leek custard and sauce beurre rouge, a traditional French red wine butter sauce. Guests who prefer a meatier main can indulge in the tender wagyu beef striploin, topped with decadent black truffles, and a classic Bordelaise sauce. End the date on a sweet note with the mesmerising raspberry & rose gateau, served with ambrosial lychee sorbet.   Reservations are required, and dishes are subject to seasonal availability. Visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/db–bistro–and–oyster–bar.html. A lavish modern Japanese Valentine’s Day feast awaits at KOMA Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar  Impress your date with a starry-eyed Valentine’s Day dinner at KOMA Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar, as the modern Japanese restaurant curates a grand six-course menu (S$388++ for two persons) for one night only. Whet your appetite with Irish premium oysters, topped with sake jelly and aromatic hanaho (shisho flowers), before savouring the sushi and sashimi moriawase – an assortment of fresh salmon, tai (sea bream) and tuna sashimi with KOMA’s Valentine’s Day special sushi roll. The lavish meal ensues with the innovative beef cigar, served with a flavourful the majestic pork tomahawk seasoned with miso and served with a sweet corn salsa, and the grilled whole branzino spruced up with zesty notes of lemon yuzu and a refreshing mix of Asian greens. KOMA will also serve its rendition of miso tomato ‘paella’, packed with chicken, chorizo and green peas, before a surprise Valentine’s Day dessert. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/koma-singapore.html Fine de Claire oysters; 20-layer red velvet cake; poached blue lobster, Catalan sauce and kaluga caviar; risotto, langoustine, carpaccio and champagne LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar will be celebrating romance with four decadent à la carte specials, available for both lunch and dinner on 14 February 2023. Couples can bask in panoramic views of Singapore’s city lights as they savour fresh Fine de Claire oysters (eight for S$55++), topped with green apple granita infused with Monkey 47 Dry Gin. Relish the timeless combination of seafood and champagne with the risotto, langoustine, carpaccio and champagne (S$65++), and indulge in the lavish poached blue lobster, Catalan sauce and kaluga caviar (S$210++) for a memorable treat. Close the romantic evening with LAVO’s 20-layer red velvet cake (S$26++), a remarkable masterpiece featuring layers of citrusy lime cream cheese interlaced with moist red velvet sponge cake. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/lavo.html Hot & sour Shanghainese soup dumplingsBarbecue Iberico pork, yellow mountain honeyCold free-range chicken, coriander, black truffleSticky black cod, mustard yuzu sauce Over at contemporary Chinese restaurant Mott 32 Singapore, delight in the restaurant’s four-course ‘Everlasting Love Set Menu’ (S$188++ per person; minimum two persons), available for lunch and dinner on 14 February. Begin with a quartet of the restaurant’s best-selling starters, which include the signature hot and sour soup dumpling, traditional Iberico pork Shanghainese soup dumpling, the tender barbecue Iberico pork, yellow mountain honey, as well as the aromatic cold free-range chicken, coriander, black truffle, before sipping on the comforting fish maw, double boiled fish bone broth, bamboo pith, Chinese cabbage. Seafood lovers will indulge in the trio of mains, ranging from the crispy Boston lobster, pik feng tong style, to the succulent braised whole fresh African abalone, oyster sauce with shiitake mushroom and the sticky black cod, mustard yuzu sauce. Wrap up the meal with a flaky baked egg tart, impeccably paired with tangy caramelized pomelo ice cream. Couples who enjoy this special menu can further elevate the celebratory feast with a bottle of Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne (S$108++). For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/mott32.html Swing by Origin + Bloom at Marina Bay Sands Hotel Lobby Tower 3 to pick up delightful Valentine’s Day treats Take home treats from Origin + Bloom this Valentine’s Day, as the European-inspired patisserie presents an ode to love through a beautiful array of entremets (multi-layered cakes), pastries and baked treats. This year’s line-up marries seasonal fruits like Japanese strawberries and raspberries with a variety of complementary flavours. The stars of the show are the entremets such as Charlotte berries (S$90), a multi-layered spin on the patisserie’s popular Charlotte cake featuring pistachio mousseline and fresh berries, and strawberries tart (S$90) layered with almond cream. Delight in intricate creations like the coeur (S$110) featuring a robust combination of raspberry jam, ginger genoise and yuzu mousse, and love rose (S$12), a mini cake shaped like the flower and filled with vanilla mousse, strawberry compote and peach jelly. Those with a penchant for classic European treats will enjoy a twist on the classic éclair (S$12), filled with raspberry marmalade and mascarpone mousse, and Barquettes Saint Valentin (S$10), a special Danish viennoiserie topped with fresh raspberries and raspberry marmalade. Families can also celebrate the occasion with the heart-shaped sourdough (S$8), or opt for the hibiscus tea infused tarte tropézienne (S$12), a flavourful brioche smothered with fresh raspberries.  Origin + Bloom’s Valentine’s Day specials are available in-store from 11 to 14 February. For enquiries, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/origin-and-bloom.html As night falls, Renku Bar & Lounge transforms into an intimate lounge for cosy soirées A cosy date night awaits couples at Renku Bar & Lounge this Valentine’s Day as local singer-songwriter Syakirah Noble (@syakirahnoble) captivates late night revellers with her jazzy rendition of popular pop songs and originals together with her live pianist. Enjoy the melodic tunes over Renku’s Valentine’s Day special cocktail – Perfect Love (S$18++). Presented in an elegant champagne flute, the pink-hued tipple is shaken with Singapore Distillery’s Stolen Roses gin, Cointreau and cherry liqueur and finished with prosecco and lemon juice. Diners can also choose to tailor their Gin & Tonic (S$24++ per glass) from Renku’s roving trolley service featuring eight distinctive locally distilled spirits. Pair these tipples with Renku’s evening menu that journeys diners through the world, from the Mediterranean region with mezze platter (S$23++) and Japan for deep fried octopus karaage (S$21++), to perennial local favourites like chicken satay (S$23++) and char kway teow (S$25++). Sharing platters are also available, such as Renku platter (S$55++), a selection of classic favourites starring hickory-smoked chicken tenders, lamb kebabs and mini beef sliders, and chef’s daily selection of cheeses from regional purveyors through cheese platter (S$23++).  Renku Bar & Lounge is open to walk-in guests every evening from 7.30pm to 12am. For more information, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/renku-bar-and-lounge.html Hamachi & Hokkaido scallop “ceviche’Pan seared sea bream “laksa”salted caramel soufflé This Valentine’s Day, take romance to new heights with a magnificent three-course dinner (S$188++ per person) at Spago Dining Room perched 57 stories high. Couples can each take their pick from an array of nine tantalising starters, which include the refreshing hamachi & Hokkaido scallop ‘ceviche’ – an uplifting appetiser featuring thick cuts of fresh yellowtail and Hokkaido scallop sashimi doused in a yuzu-perfumed soy sauce and topped with briny ikura, coriander and minty kinome. For mains, savour the restaurant’s original creation of pan seared sea bream “laksa”, a brilliant combination of crispy rice noodles and juicy fillet in a fragrant curried coconut broth, or opt for the brioche stuffed Brisbane Valley quail, accompanied by roasted brussels sprouts, confit bacon, fennel and creamy foie gras. Round up the romantic feast with Spago’s signature fluffy salted caramel soufflé, served with Farmer’s Market fuji apple sorbet, or the decadent black forest mille-feuille, a layered treat of kirsch chantilly, flourless chocolate cake and cherry compote, served with morello cherry gelato.   This February, celebrate the season of love with a pink-themed ‘Shades of Spago’ and sip on the fruity Forbidden Kiss alongside live tunes by DJ Patrick Oliver Revellers seeking a one-of-a-kind bar experience can now enjoy a night to remember with Spago Bar and Lounge’s newly introduced ‘Shades of Spago’ bar programme. Happening from 8pm to midnight on the last Saturday of the month, each enthralling night is themed after a different colour. Turn up the heat with a sultry scarlet red February edition (25 February), before hues of electric lilac and lime green take the stage for the March edition (25 March). Priced at S$48++, the experience includes one of Spago’s evocative cocktails inspired by the theme, such as the vivacious pink-hued Forbidden Kiss for February – a blend of Hendrick’s Gin, fresh raspberries, rose elixir, and lemon. Come dressed to impress, and make merry all night long to cool beats by renowned DJ Patrick Oliver, set against a spectacular backdrop of Singapore’s city skyline.  Reservations are highly recommended; visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/spago-bar-andlounge.html A lavish Valentine’s Day Omakase experience at contemporary Japanese restaurant WAKUDA Restaurant & Bar This Valentine’s Day, toast to a romantic evening at WAKUDA Restaurant & Bar, as the restaurant curates an exquisite eight-course omakase menu (S$350++ per person). Indulge in a bespoke dining journey as veteran chefs present an artful menu that combines deft culinary mastery with prized ingredients and the freshest seasonal catch from around the globe. For a truly luxurious experience, complement the elegant dinner with a wine and sake pairing menu, available at a supplement of S$108++.  Limited seats are available, and reservations are required; call 6688 8885 or email  wakuda.reservations@marinabaysands.com This Valentine’s Day (14 February), explore two brand-new, limited-time à la carte creations at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar over one-for-one Valentine’s Day cocktails. Savour the unagi foie gras terrine (S$78++), a celebration of the land and sea where rich and creamy foie gras is complemented with a hint of charred flavours from grilled unagi. This decadent appetiser is elevated with complementary pairings like Riesling wine jelly and Calvados poached apples, and served with house-made brioche.Tickle the senses with the tea smoked duck breast (S$88++) made with Yardbird’s secret smoking technique using tea leaves. The skillfully handcrafted entrée is seared with the highest precision to retain its juiciness and tenderness, and served with duck leg confit and crisp feuille de brick, alongside bitter chocolate bourbon & raspberry noisette sauce culminating in a harmonious blend of flavours. Pair these delightful creations with the Match Maker, a secret concoction that is spirit driven and combines ripe berries with a hint of citrus and presence of botanical bouquet on the palate. For reservations, visit marinabaysands.com/restaurants/yardbird-southern-table-and-bar.html Tune Up the Romantic Vibes this Valentine’s Day Looking for the perfect gift for your audiophile partner? Look no further as Creative has specially curated a list of perfect V-Day gift options for you and your loved one with up to 40% discount from now till 14 February 2023! Does your significant other enjoy peace and quiet? Gift them a set of Hybrid-ANC headphones! Creative Zen Hybrid – 40% off the Original Price of $98 USD V-Day Price: $59 USD The Zen Hybrid is Creative’s latest and most versatile wireless headphones that look and perform the part as a go-to daily favourite for all. Equipped with Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to drive out 95% of ambient noise, up to 37 hours of battery life (5 minutes of charging yields 5 hours of playback), and 40mm Neodymium drivers. Love comes in pairs so grab yourself a pair of earbuds to share with your partner! Creative Outlier Pro – 25% off the Original Price: $80 USD V-Day Price: $60 USD Shut the world out with Outlier Pro, Creative’s flagship true wireless earbuds which feature Hybrid ANC, up to 60 hours of battery life, customizable touch controls and IPX5-certified water resistance. Fancy watching some romantic movies this V-Day? Stage it up with the Creative Stage V2 cinematic soundbar Creative Stage V2 – 22% off the Original Price: $139 USD V-Day Price: $109 USD Creative Stage V2 takes the stage as Creative’s latest all-in-one audio solution for your home. Debuting with Clear Dialog and Surround, audio features powered by Creative’s renowned Sound Blaster audio expertise, Creative Stage V2 is an easy upgrade for you to enjoy a cinema experience in the comfort of your own home. For more information on Creative’s V-Day deals, head over to https://my.creative.com/ Photos courtesy of Marina Bay Sands and Creative Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/10/03/hospitality-news-october-2021/

Hospitality News – October 2021

[Hospitality News] Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara Announces the Re-Opening of its Award-Winning Luxury Spa Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara reopens its Sofitel Spa from 1 October 2021 onwards, for guests indulge in an exotic range of health and beauty treatments infused with French expertise at Sofitel Spa. The Sofitel Spa is a luxe-style elegant haven designed purely for pampering you and treating your senses to an exhilarating spa experience – leaving you feeling wonderfully rejuvenated! Landing an award for “Best Spa Design in Malaysia” by Haute Grandeur Global Hotel and Spa Awards in 2018, the spa features interior surroundings of the spacious haven designed with light French villa style tones to create an ambience of warmth and homely comfort. The private treatment rooms and the spa lounge are adorned with cloud-like fabrics and motifs. Sofitel Spa occupies 347 square meters of the hotel and comprises of five spacious treatment rooms with private built-in showers including duo-treatment suites for couples and is complete with an original Turkish bath experience featuring the Hammam (warm steam bath). Sofitel Spa has been honoured with an impressive number of many other accolades including “Best Luxury Spa in Malaysia” by Haute Grandeur Global Hotel and Spa Awards, “Best Facial Massage” by Female Magazine, and “Best Hammam Experience” by Harper’s Bazaar Spa Awards. Sofitel’s extensive spa menu includes masterfully crafted health massages, hammam-based traditions, and beauty treatments – infused with French expertise.  Embracing gastronomy as the central inspiration behind the ingredients, have your senses awakened, teased, and amazed with some of the unique and surprising choices consisting of internationally renowned traditional treatments to modern, avant-garde French cosmetology.  Each session is conducted with strict adherence to the highest standards of safety and hygiene SOP and in accordance with ALLSAFE safety protocols. The hammam experience at Sofitel Spa includes rituals like Lisse and Hammam and Gonmage, inspired by Turkish culture, where guests can detoxify, purify, and luxuriate in pure comfort.  Opt for the 45-minute starter like the Express Head and Shoulder Massage, or choose more intensive choices of wellness and beautification like the Le Bien Etre. For those who would like a taste of local Malaysian culture, Sofitel Spa even has local favourites such as the Urutan Malaysia-Relief Massage.  Sofitel Spa also has packages for couples such as Romantique where couples can share a moment of relaxation while experiencing a signature facial and signature massage. Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara welcomes back guests with these offers, all valid from 1 to 31 October 2021:  » Purchase three sessions of massage and receive one complimentary facial session.  » Manicure promotion at RM99.  » Receive a complimentary 30-minute back massage or foot massage with any purchase worth RM250 and above. Each treatment at Sofitel Spa is poetically created to enhance your well-being, bring back your natural glows and let you luxuriate in the hotel’s private sanctuary while escaping the stresses of life.  Top it off with a few more moments of serenity with a steam bath in the spacious saunas, and step back into the bustling city feeling très magnifique! Sofitel Spa is open daily from 12 noon to 8 p.m. For enquiries and reservations, email HA123-HK5@sofitel.com or call 03-2720 6696 . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/05/15/nissan-sylphy-2014-launch/

Nissan Sylphy (2014) Launch

[Automotive]   Headed over to the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur on 29 April 2014 for the launch of the all new Nissan Sylphy. This is the third generation Sylphy and differs from the previous generation that I reviewed back in 2012 (you can read more about that here – https://timchew.net/2012/07/13/a-date-with-the-2012-nissan-sylphy/). Edaran Tan Chong Motors (which is the official importer, manufacturer and distributor of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia) seems pretty aggressive this year and this launch comes hot on the heels of the launch of the new X-Gear which was just in March 2014 (https://timchew.net/2014/03/27/nissan-x-gear-2014-facelift-launch/).   The new Nissan Sylphy is built on an all new platform and is imported completely built up (CBU) from Thailand   The new exterior features a chrome front grill integrated with LED accentuated headlamps The new design and aerodynamic body provides lower air resistance to achieve a coefficient of drag of 0.29. Interior space is increased by 30mm shoulder room with a 680mm rear leg room (although there will be probably much less if I’m sitting in front of you!). The trunk has a 510 litres capacity while there are LED rear combination lights for sportiness and greater visibility to following vehicles The Sylphy is powered by a 1.8 MRA8DE Twin CVTC engine which delivers 131PS at 6,000 RPM and a max torque of 171Nm at 3,600 RPM, helping you achieve fuel efficiency of 15.6 km/l.   The interior of the car is predominantly classy black and silver to give a premium feel to the vehicle   The car comes with a host of safety features which is something most consumers are very concerned about these days: Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) VDC helps drivers stay in control and avoid danger in emergency situations. It prevents sideway slides when changing lanes or taking corners on a slippery road surface. Traction Control System (TCS) When the standard Traction Control System senses drive-wheel spin, it responds by reducing throttle or applying brake pressure to help maintain traction. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) The standard ABS pumps the brakes in panic-braking situations to help prevent wheel lockup. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist (BA) Designed to send extra force to the rear brakes when there is additional weight in the back.     Premium features include: PUSH-START IGNITION – No fumbling with keys. INTELLIGENT KEY- Lock and unlock door and trunk, start engine and drive away without removing the i-key from purse or pocket.  DUAL ZONE AUTO CLIMATE CONTROL – Warm or cool, drivers and passengers can adjust temperature to their own ideal setting.  ECO DRIVE INDICATOR – Integrated into the instrument panel, the indicator feeds driver with real-time fuel consumption levels to improve driving. SPORT MODE – Sport mode sharpens engine and CVT transmission response to rev up your senses. STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS – Steering wheel comes with Cruise Control, Audio Control, Bluetooth Handsfree and Multi-Information Display (MID) Button for the convenience of the driver.     The new Nissan Sylphy is available from RM115,093.80 (on the road with insurance) and is available in Cayenne Red, Premium Black, Bronze Gold, Diamond White, and Brilliant Silver. The car comes with a 3 year or 100,000km warranty (whichever comes first). More info at http://www.nissan.com.my/ Here are more photos from the launch. Click on the photos to open a larger version.   Joey G – the MC for the launch, looking very dapper! . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/03/31/superdry-sport-mens-ready-to-wear-ss17/

Superdry Sport – Men’s Ready to Wear SS17

[Fashion]   Superdry’s latest Sport collection brings the right mix of cool and credible. The collection features performance products for the trendsetter who defines their own rules, providing great layering options with a full range for hitting the gym and everyday wear. The urban colour palette of bold blues and cool greys offers a cutting-edge style. Outerwear steals the show this season with key highlights including the Hybrid Zip Hoodies, which feature a quilted body and jersey sleeves, and Superdry’s Core Cagoules, which feature water and wind resistant fabric in fresh, all over prints. The collection is rounded off with a selection of gym tops in relaxed and athletic fits, training shorts and sports leggings – all with moisture wicking fabric technology.     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/2015/01/30/valentines-day-menu-signature-by-the-hill-the-roof-first-avenue-bandar-utama/

Valentine’s Day Menu – Signature by The Hill, The Roof, First Avenue Bandar Utama

[Valentine’s Day Special]   Before dinner you can chill out in the lounge and have a few drinks. I chose to have a pint of Asahi Super Dry draught first before dinner.   This year’s Valentine’s Day package at Signature by The Hill at The Roof, First Avenue Bandar Utama features dinner with a choice of one (1) main that comes with an entrée and dessert buffet, and a champagne cocktail for each of you. Yes this is a slight departure from the normal Valentine’s Day dinners where each course if served to you but hey look at it this way – you get to try all the different entrées and desserts instead of being stuck with something that you may not like. What’s even better is that you can have as much as you want! Providing the entertainment for the night in Signature is songstress Nana Lee who is Super Idol Taiwan 2013. You may also head up to Stratosphere (the helipad) after 10.00pm where you will get a complimentary lovers cocktail, and 20% discount off Veuve Clicquot champagne. The nice folks over at The Roof invited me and my partner in crime to try out their special Valentine’s Day menu. Actually come to think of it, my partner in crime and I are very blessed to have been hosted for multiple Valentine’s Day menus each year. Many thanks to The Roof for this experience and here’s our experience.   A pair of champagne cocktails to start off the meal The dining room in Signature by The Hill – There’s a alcohol surcharge if you want the window tables though but you do get a great view of Damansara and beyond. On clear nights you can even see the Twin Towers and KL Tower. Signature Mushroom Soup – with truffle oil, sautéed chanterelle mushrooms, blended trio of wild mushrooms, and creme. This is one of my favourite mushroom soups – thick and creamy with loads of earthy mushroom flavours and some croutons to boot Summer Salad with prawns, baby octopus, lychee and greens with a light sesame dressing   So help yourself with the entrée, but do remember to keep some room for the main and dessert. For the main, you get to choose from a selection of five (5) different mains. We opted to try these two (2) mains:   Beef Wellington Signature’s version of the traditional English Beef Wellington is not the usual long Beef Wellington which is carved up into slices. This one comes in single portions, and this was cooked to medium rare which is the way I prefer to have my beef. The inside of the light puff pastry was lined with chicken liver (which replaces the traditional prosciutto) and mushroom duxelle which imparts some rich and earthy flavours to this dish. You’ll be pretty full after finishing this dish so don’t have too much entrées!   Black Cod Black Cod served with wild mushroom risotto cakes with red bell-pepper butter sauce and topped with alfalfa tobiko. I really couldn’t get enough of the spicy butter sauce which went so well with the cod. The tobiko added a little decadence while the earthy flavours and variation of texture of the mushroom risotto cakes helped to balance out this dish. I certainly hope this dish makes it to the regular menu as I’d happily order it again!   There are other main dishes such as Roasted Salmon, Lamb Shank, and Duck Confit Mushroom for you to choose from. For dessert, once again you get to help yourself to as much as you want from the dessert buffet spread. Here are some of Signature’s best-selling desserts:   Spicy Chocolate Lava – chilli chocolate lava cake served with Kahlua infused mascarpone, berries compote Look at the lovely lava flowing out! This is a fire and ice dish and yes the chocolate lava cake is actually spicy but fret not as it’s not unbearably spicy. Anyway there’s always the ice cream to cool it off.   Pavlova – a meringue based dessert with a crisp crust and soft light filling inside Not too sweet while the berries and fruits lent some acidity to balance out this rather creamy but nonetheless very delicious dessert.     The special Valentine’s Day dinner at Signature is priced at RM199.00++ per pax and is only available for dinner on 14 February 2015. Dinner will be separated into two (2) sittings and you can call Signature to find out the times. As Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday night this year, my suggestion is to choose the second seating. That was you can chill with some beers or drinks in Malt & Leaf and perhaps grab some light bites there before dinner, then head to Signature for your dinner, then up to Stratosphere for your cocktail/ champagne, before ending your night in PLAY! For more info or to make a reservation (Signature), call 012-3304629 or 016-2291505   You could also elevate your dining experience by having your Valentine’s Day dinner up at Stratosphere which is the helipad. The special 4 course dinner is priced at RM988.00 nett per couple with complimentary one (1) Veuve Clicquot champagne bottle. There are only 20 tables available so do book early! For inquiries and table booking (at Stratosphere), call 03-7724 1627 (Mon-Fri, 10am – 6pm) or 019 7353 241 (everyday 6-10pm).   Signature by The Hill is part of the multi-concept entertainment hub that is The Roof which is located at: 1, First Avenue Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.   Website: http://www.theroof.com.my/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Signature.TheRoof   I’ve also prepared a guide to Valentine’s Day 2015 which includes special promotions by 11 restaurants and 2 florists which you can read here – https://timchew.net/2015/01/19/7-restaurants-for-valentines-day-dinner-2015/ Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/03/10/richard-marx-the-solo-tour-live-in-kuala-lumpur-2016/

Richard Marx “The Solo Tour” Live in Kuala Lumpur 2016

[Concert]   I was most honoured to be invited to cover the Richard Marx Live in Kuala Lumpur 2016 concert on 9 March 2016 thanks to Fat Boys Event Management Malaysia who organised the concert. Growing up in the 80’s meant that I was familiar with his hit songs and seeing him perform in the flesh was indeed a very memorable experience.   Accompanying me was Ruby who was also familiar with Richard Marx’s songs   He didn’t bring a band with him this time round but performed solo with the exception of one (1) song with his three (3) sons accompanying him via video. His sons definitely inherited their father’s musical talent! The show was an intimate evening with Richard interacting with the crowd and performing mostly his hit songs with a sprinkling of some newer songs thrown in for good measure.  All in all he performed 15 songs – Endless summer nights, Take this heart, Keep coming back, Now and forever, Hazard, Save me, Turn off the night, Dance with my father again, This I promise you, Satisfied, Just go, Angelia, Don’t mean nothing, Should’ve known better, and of course “Right Here Waiting” closed off the show. Along the way, he shared some stories about the songs. “This I Promise You”  was a song he wrote for N-Sync that became a great hit while “Hazard” was quite an unexpected hit from him as he was trying out something new and wrote a murder mystery in the form of a song. He performed with only the acoustic/ classical guitar or the piano, both of which he played absolutely brilliantly, and he even played “Angelia” totally unplugged without any mic or the guitar plugged in to the amplifiers. Now Plenary Hall is not a small hall but with everyone as quite as a mouse, we were able to appreciate his voice totally raw and boy can he sing.     More info on Fat Boys Event Management at https://www.facebook.com/FatBoysMY/   The photos and the video above were shot using the FUJIFILM X-T10. More info at http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x_t10/   Below are the photos courtesy of Fat Boys Event Management. More info at www.facebook.com/FatBoysMY Click on the individual photos to open a larger version. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/01/22/honor-7-photoshoot-with-choo-mei-sze/

Honor 7 – Photoshoot with Choo Mei Sze

[Tech & Gadgets]   Following the launch of the Honor 7 (which you can read about here – https://timchew.net/2016/01/06/honor-7-smartphone-latest-flagship-by-honor/), established MC and entrepreneur Choo Mei Sze and I both got our hands on the latest flagship from Honor, a sub-brand of Huawei and put it to the test, bringing it with us during our daily lives. I’ve always preferred using flagship smartphones due to their superior hardware specs. The Honor 7 certainly excels in that department and is on par with most of the other flagship phones out there. In fact, in the camera department, the Honor 7’s 20MP rear camera exceeds that of most other phones! The phone’s processor keeps apps running smoothly and I didn’t notice any lag. The on-board 16GB memory though fills up rather fast especially if you take lots of pics however you can always add a SD card to keep your photos and videos, and save the on-board memory for apps. Game apps run smoothly while the fingerprint scanner is very useful for unlocking the phone.  The fingerprint sensor can also be used answer calls simply by touching and holding the sensor, or to take selfies with one hand by tapping your finger on the sensor. Swiping down on the sensor brings down the notification panel, and then double-tapping it clears all the notifications.   Here are some photos of Mei Sze with the Honor 7 shot by MHB’s official photographer Andy Kho (www.andykho.com). Click on the individual photos to view a larger version.   And here are some photos that I shot of her with the Honor 7 at her company’s new year dinner recently.   Here are some photos taken with the Honor 7’s cameras. A pic with Lin Lin using the front camera with lots of background light. Used the beauty mode at Level 5 (out of 10) here. Shot Lin Lin, Sarah and Grace using the Honor 7’s rear camera in rather dim and uneven lighting Mei Sze using the Honor 7’s front camera to shoot a selfie with her friend in good lighting conditions A selfie with blogger Fish indoors using the Honor 7’s front camera Fish using the front camera to take a selfie with Shirley using the in-camera beauty mode   The Honor 7 actually has a front flash for selfies. However as I (and most of the girls I know) don’t like using flash when take selfies, I didn’t use it. Probably useful for the most hardcore of selfie takers who want to take selfies even in really low light conditions! The front camera has a wide angle lens though so it’s good for taking selfies with multiple people (ie. groufie – a word I hate using) or yourself against a nice backdrop if there’s no one around to help you to take a photo. The rear camera has a “Good Food” mode which assists to automatically warmify food pics to make them look more appetising (saving you the trouble of editing later). For the more creative types, there’s also the Light Painting function (a feature that is also present in Huawei’s flagship phones) with four preset modes – Car Light Trails, Light Graffiti, Silky Water and Star Track. There are also some nifty smart gestures like the ability to quickly snap a screenshot by tapping twice on the device’s screen with your knuckle, or access your favorite applications in locked-mode by drawing a pre-designated letter on the screen. A new smart key on the left-hand-side of the device, allows you quickly conduct Google searches. An interesting feature is the voice wakeup feature where you can call out your wakeup keyword then asking the phone to call one of your contacts. If you’re the forgetful sort and frequently forget where you placed your phone, you can go to the room where it’s in, call out your keyword and ask: “Where are you?” then listen as the device calls out to you.   DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS HEIGHT: 143.2mm WIDTH: 71.9mm DEPTH: 8.5mm WEIGHT (WITH BATTERY): About 157g COLOUR: Fantasy Silver / Mystery Grey SIM CARD: Dual SIM (supports Nano SIM card) DISPLAY:5.2 inches Screen Color:16 million colors Type:TFT Resolution:1920 x 1080 pixels Pixel Density: 424ppi PROCESSOR: Hisilicon Kirin 9354 * A53 2.2GHz + 4 * A53 1.5GHz with big.LITTLE technology OPERATING SYSTEM: Android 5.0 + EMUI 3.1   MEMORY RAM: 3GB INTERNAL MEMORY: 16GB EXTERNAL MEMORY SUPPORT: Micro SD Card (up to 128GB)   CONNECTIVITY NETWORK: FDD LTE: B1/B3/B7/B8/B20WCDMA: B1/B2/B8 GSM : Main card: 850/900/1800/1900 Second card:850/900/1800/1900MHz WIFI_CONNECTION: 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac2.4GHz / 5GHz SENSORS: AccelerometerProximity sensorAmbient light sensorGyroscopeHall-sensor   CAMERA FRONT: 8 MP FF camera REAR: 20 MP FF camera   MULTIMEDIA AUDIO ENCODING: AAC, MP3, AMR-NB, AAC+, eAAC+, MIDI AUDIO FILE FORMAT: MP3, WAV, MID, AMR, MP4, 3GP, OGG, AAC, FLAC, M4A, MKV VIDEO ENCODING: H.263, H.264, MPEG-4 VIDEO FILE FORMAT: MP4, 3GP, MKV, WEBM EMOTION UI: EMUI 3.1 BATTERY: 3100mAh CLOUD SERVICE: No   IN THE BOX DEVICE: 1 pcs BATTERY: 1 pcs (built-in with handset) CHARGER: 1 pcs USB CABLE: 1 pcs QUICK START GUIDE: 1 pcs WARRANTY PERIOD: 1 year   The honor 7 is currently available in (2) two colours, Mystery Gray and Fantasy Silver for RM1,399.00  at Vmall.my (*quick-charging charger sold separately). For more info, head over to www.facebook.com/HuaweiHonorMY or vmall.my . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/08/10/automotive-news-august-2021/

Automotive News – August 2021

[News] PEUGEOT and SAMSONITE Launch Hand Luggage PEUGEOT added to its range of lifestyle products and asserting its upmarket position with a cabin case signed with its new logo. Based on the rigid SAMSONITE C-Lite model, the new suitcase is resistant, light, and practical with four wheels, making it ideal for weekends or business trips. Given that the automotive world and travelling are closely intertwined, PEUGEOT has joined forces with SAMSONITE to sell its cabin suitcase. The two brands are reaffirming their high-end generalist position and are aiming to entice travellers. The iconic shellshaped design of the suitcase is inseparable from the rigid range of the luggage manufacturer. The coat of arms with a lion’s head in profile, the new PEUGEOT logo, is highlighted by the sober black colour of this luggage. The new cabin bag is made from CURV material which is solid and light, giving it ironclad resistance. Its dimensions (55×40 x 20 to 23 cm with expandability) and its weight of 2.1 kg make it highly portable, while its four wheels, double tube telescopic handle and telescopic handle make it easy to move around. This new multi-purpose suitcase, made in Europe, adds to the PEUGEOT luggage line, as well as the range of clothing and products signed with the new brand identity. The new suitcase is available for €399 including VAT on the online shop at https://boutique.peugeot.com Shell Fuelsave 95 Recognised as the Fuel of Choice by 10 Car Clubs in Malaysia Shell FuelSave 95, was recognised as the fuel of choice by 10 car clubs in Malaysia, and was part of Shell’s “Ekstra Kilometer, Ternyata Berbeza” campaign, a refreshed look at Shell FuelSave 95, launched earlier this year. In a virtual ceremony on 12 August 2021 with Shairan Huzani Husain, Managing Director of Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn. Bhd, representatives from 10 car clubs namely Proton Ambassadors of Malaysia, Myvi Gen.3 Club, HR-V Club Malaysia, Civic FC Club Malaysia, Geng Alza Biru Malaysia, Vios Yaris Owners Club, Mazda 3 Owner Club Malaysia, Kelab AruzR Malaysia, Nissan X-Trail Club Malaysia and Volkswagen Club Malaysia officially stamped their approval on the robust capabilities of Shell FuelSave 95. The recommendation is a result of numerous engagements with several car clubs since 2019 to test the difference of extra kilometres with Shell FuelSave 95. From the positive experiences, the car clubs unitedly formalised their confidence in Shell FuelSave 95 via an official recommendation. Now, Shell FuelSave 95 will power over 50,000 car club members with an estimated drive of 75,000 KM accumulatively to showcase its ‘extra kilometres’ capabilities through specially curated drive events. These events will commence when the government’s COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Additionally, these drive events will allow members to provide immediate feedback on how Shell FuelSave 95 enhances their drive, which will help create a better experience for other Malaysian drivers alike. The car clubs will also receive early access and first-hand trials to Shell’s latest products and services. “Shell fuels are developed through decades of technological expertise, rigorous research and most importantly, our customers’ needs in mind. Not all fuels are created equal; this is why we are honoured to have so many passionate car experts choosing Shell FuelSave 95 for their cars as it reflects the confidence our customers have in our ability to continue delivering high quality fuels and extra kilometres.” Shairan Huzani Husain, Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn Bhd Managing Director “We are very particular about fuel quality because we understand how important it is to maintain engine cleanliness and optimise vehicle performance. Shell FuelSave 95 has always been our fuel of choice – we recommend it to peers, friends, and family because we have complete faith in its capabilities. We are thrilled to join hands with Shell Malaysia and look forward to collaborating with them,” said Mohd Affan Bin Mohd Aris, representative from Myvi Gen.3 Club. “Those who want the most efficient fuel need not look further because Shell FuelSave 95 assures you of extra kilometres. I am impressed because the fuel has provided me with extra savings as my fuel consumption is averaging better than other fuels that I have tried, and it gives me peace of mind when I am on the road.” said Mohamad Nazri Jamil, representative from HR-V Club Malaysia. To celebrate the official recommendation from the 10 car clubs, customers can enjoy 5% discount for RM30 and RM50 Shell vouchers exclusively on Shopee for 10 days, from 13 – 22 August 2021, by using the promo code ‘EKSTRAKM’ during checkout (limited to 2,000 codes per day). Additionally, Malaysians can tune in ‘The Ekstra Onz Show’ on ERA FM’s Facebook page to participate in exciting games, win extra rewards and get tips on extra savings. For more info, head over to www.shell.com.my Photo credits: Peugeot, Samsonite and Shell Malaysia . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/04/17/hansgrohe-great-bathroom-solutions/

Hansgrohe – Great Bathroom Solutions!

[Event] OK I must admit – I had no idea what Hansgrohe was. But curiosity got the better of me so I decided to go check out their showroom in Kelana Jaya on a lazy Saturday morning with MHB’s Valerie Chua for company. Anyway here’s a little background info on the brand: Hansgrohe is a leading bathroom and sanitation specialist and early pioneer of the sanitation industry, with a product range focusing on showers, taps and bathroom mixers. Hansgrohe also provides customised bath-room design services and recently introduced a range of exclusive bathroom fittings developed in collaboration with celebrated designers. Designed and researched in-house, Hansgrohe’s products aim to make the bathroom ‘more functional, comfortable and beautiful’. Boasting a rich culture of design innovation, many bathroom shower features which people across the world now take for granted, were originally introduced by Hansgrohe over its 111-year history. This culture of design innovation continues to be reflected in Hansgrohe’s newest product offerings, over 80% of which are made in Germany and carry with them the assurance and guarantee of German qual-ity and expertise, honed over decades of Hansgrohe’s existence. This commitment to design and quality has been recognised – for the company and its products have been honoured with numerous awards, the latest being the Umsicht Science Award, the German Design Award in Gold and the iF Gold Award 2012. Hansgrohe’s products can be found in such prestigious projects such as the luxury liner Queen Mary II, Terminal 5 of Heathrow Airport in London, Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the German Chancellor’s office in Berlin, the Yoo luxury apartments in New York and at the Masdar City Institute of Sci-ence and Technology in Abu Dhabi. There are currently two major brands under the company: Hansgrohe, with its range of showers, taps and mixers; Axor, the luxury brand which specialises in bathroom collections and bathroom designs. . This is the what Hansgrohe was very proud to show us and even let us experience it with a bath. No surprise that the queue for the bath was pretty long so Valerie and I enjoyed some sangria and snacks and even got a relaxing foot massage while waiting for her turn. The new Raindance Rainfall 180 twin jet overhead shower can be perfectly combined with different decor styles. The aerated, voluminous RainAir shower rain therefore falls amply from the 180-mm-wide jet disc in the front section of the shower. The large distance from the wall provides users with excellent freedom of movement to optimally enjoy the gushing water. The 170-millimetre-wide, voluminous RainFlow jet pours over the shower user like a natural waterfall giving you a whole new shower experience! Cute shower-head for kids! The ones on the right are hybrid shower-head + rain shower systems. This sink is fully customisable. You can position your faucets anywhere within the grids on the top and right. Kitchen solutions too! Game of thrones – porcelain thrones that is This system is height adjustable to suit the user’s preference Valerie set it to maximum height since she’s pretty tall Valerie Chua, didn’t you mom tell you not to play with water? Finally it was Valerie’s turn to take a shower A systematic approach to showering Those who want to enjoy the flexible showering pleasure of a hand shower but without relinquishing the rain-like sensation of standing under a large overhead shower should try a Showerpipe. As fully a pre-installed unit, it can be installed easily in front of the wall. The integrated thermostat allows users to conveniently and safely manage their pleasurable shower experiences. The range of Raindance Showerpipes has been extended with some attractive models: From the Raindance Select 240 to the Raindance Select 300 Showerpipe, all variants come with a swivelling shower arm and the new Raindance Select 150 hand shower. . The ShowerPower package A visual highlight among the new additions to the family is the Raindance Select Showerpipe 360. High-quality finishes, soft curves, elegance and understated luxury all characterise this completely new Showerpipe archetype. The flat profile of the flow of water blends first into the angled shower arm and then into the flat, 360-millimetre, shoulder-width overhead shower. This provides users with comfortable freedom of movement under the voluminous, aerated AirPower shower rain. Equally extraordinary is the new Ecostat Select thermostat – a convenient operating unit, which also offers a comfortable, spacious shelf for shower utensils. The new Showerpipe is also available as a bath tub model with a longer shower bar. . A question of change Showering pleasure can now be controlled flexibly with the new Raindance Select 150 hand shower, and Hansgrohe is continuing the success story of the often imitated Raindance showers. The product developers focused on ease of handling and use. The result: a flowingly round, modern shower with an easy-to-hold handle and “Select” – an ultra-simple jet change function. Users can select their favourite jet type at the simple touch of a button. Soft RainAir, massaging CaresseAir or a refreshing mixed jet: it is all a question of change. . AirPower Technology – Saves Water! The 150-millimetre-wide jet disc with AirPower technology, which enriches water with air, douses users in voluminous, pleasantly soft rain drops. The models with Hansgrohe EcoSmart technology reduce the water flow to approximately nine litres per minute. Water and energy costs can therefore be notably reduced compared to those incurred when using standard showers. A choice can also be made between the high-quality, seemingly monolithic look with a fully chrome-plated jet disc or a fresh, two-coloured version with a white and chrome finish. Print out this voucher to enjoy a discount! So the next time you’re looking for some awesome bathroom faucets and fittings be sure to head over to Hansgrohe Showroom No. 2-B-1, Jalan SS6/6, Kelana Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. . For more information call: +603 7805 4748 ext 216 . 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 . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/12/03/groupe-psa-awards-sole-distributorship-rights-of-peugeot-marque-vehicles-in-malaysia-to-berjaya-auto-alliance-sdn-bhd/

Groupe PSA Awards Sole Distributorship Rights of Peugeot Marque Vehicles in Malaysia to Berjaya Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd

[Automotive News] Groupe PSA (“Groupe PSA”), Berjaya Corporation Berhad (“BerjayaCorp”) and Bermaz Auto Berhad (“Bermaz”) announced on 1 December 2020 that Groupe PSA has awarded Berjaya Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd (“BAASB”) the sole distributorship of new vehicles under the PEUGEOT marque and the rights of aftersales and spare parts distribution for the PEUGEOT, CITROEN and DS marque vehicles in Malaysia; thus signaling a new partnership that is expected to enable Groupe PSA to continue to pursue its growth strategy in Malaysia. BAASB is a newly incorporated company whereby BerjayaCorp and Bermaz hold 51% and 20% stakes respectively in BAASB. Sharing her views on this new collaboration, Mrs Laurence Noel, the Senior Vice President South East Asia Groupe PSA said, “Our product line-up of award-winning SUVs Peugeot 3008 and Peugeot 5008 has garnered a lot of attention here in the past few years, and as such we strive to continue the momentum through exciting new models and aftersales initiatives. It is our plan in the near future to introduce our global successes such as the all new Peugeot 2008 in Malaysia. Further to that, we aim to continuously revolutionize the customer experience together with our new partner, BAASB and underscore our commitment to our customers through excellent sales and aftersales service. Groupe PSA has made Malaysia its export hub for the region.” Dato’ Sri Robin Tan Yeong Ching, the Chief Executive Officer of BerjayaCorp said, “Berjaya is pleased to be given this opportunity to be part of the new collaboration (via BAASB) with Groupe PSA, one of Europe’s largest vehicle manufacturers, listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange. This new collaboration will complement our Group’s existing automotive business namely, H.R. Owen Plc and Berjaya China Motor Sdn Bhd. We believe this collaboration between BerjayaCorp, Bermaz and Groupe PSA will bring positive synergistic benefits to all parties.” Executive Chairman of Bermaz, Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh said, “We are honoured that Groupe PSA and BerjayaCorp recognise Bermaz Group’s capabilities and expertise in the automobile industry and is delighted to participate in this new collaboration, which is expected to contribute positively to our future earnings base. PEUGEOT, CITROEN and DS are European marque cars well-known for their driving comfort, smooth handling, modern designs, durability and with state-of-the-art technology. Hence, we are elated and looking forward to a successful collaboration with BerjayaCorp and Groupe PSA via BAASB.” Mrs Noel further said, “BerjayaCorp is a multi-national conglomerate group of companies whilst Bermaz is a renowned automotive company in Malaysia; both listed on the Malaysian stock exchange. Hence, Groupe PSA is indeed pleased and is confident that the business collaboration with BerjayaCorp and Bermaz (via BAASB) will accelerate growth and create a synergy of key strengths between Groupe PSA and BAASB, which will see us further consolidating and increasing our market presence here”. For more info, head over to https://peugeot.com.my/ Visual credit: Berjaya Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2015/01/15/bang-olufsens-beosound-moment/

Bang & Olufsen’s BeoSound Moment

[Tech & Gadgets]   Bang & Olufsen launched its new BeoSound Moment at CES 2015, premiering the device which is an intelligent and intuitive wireless music system that integrates your music collection and services into one.  The top of the new BeoSound Moment is a detachable and double-sided interface that allows for two different listening experiences. One side is an elegant aluminium interface with a delicate touch screen where you can browse the endless online music catalogue, your favourite playlists and share your music collection. The wooden side is designed for one-touch access which allows you to have your favourite music flowing from your speakers with just one touch on the wooden wheel. The BeoSound Moment introduces a new, intelligent feature that adapts your listening patterns and suggests music or radio programmes that fit with the relevant day of the week and the time of day. The advanced PatternPlay feature automatically memorizes your musical preferences and makes your listening experience both familiar and explorative. Over time, BeoSound Moment will gradually start to know your taste in music, and be able to play what you most likely want to hear. The music presented by PatternPlay stems from your own preferred favourite artists and playlists plus an extensive online catalogue of music, with access to more than 35 million songs, supplied by leading global music streaming service Deezer. You can activate PatternPlay directly, with one touch, on the oak panel. The aluminium interface displays another new feature of BeoSound Moment – the MoodWheel. A single touch on the multi-coloured MoodWheel activates an automatically generated playlist defined by your finger’s position on the wheel. The closer to the centre of the wheel, the more familiar the music. In the very middle of the MoodWheel the music will be picked from your lists of favourites only, whereas the outer parameter of the circle tempts the listener with musical adventures of associated music from the vast online catalogue of songs. The MoodWheel is divided into a colour gamut that ranges from melancholic blue over a passionate red zone to an energetic yellow area. Combined, these two dimensions on the intuitive MoodWheel offer limitless possibilities for defining your selection of music. The BeoSound Moment is also compatible with the whole Bang & Olufsen range of wireless and wired quality speakers. “As a modern, cloud based music system, BeoSound Moment will offer software updates with new features and improvements. We have prepared a firm software update roadmap for BeoSound Moment including the deployment of a very compelling multi-room experience that encompasses both television and other audio products planned for Summer 2015”, says Marie Kristine Schmidt Vice President, Brand, Design & Marketing Bang & Olufsen. BeoSound Moment will be available exclusively at Bang & Olufsen Grand Hyatt showroom from end February 2015 at the recommended retail price of RM11,000.00 inclusive of 12 months of prepaid Deezer Premium+.   Bang & Olufsen also launched the new BeoVision Avant 75” which is the newcomer to the BeoVision Avant family which already includes the 85” and 55”. BeoVision Avant was honoured at CES 2015, receiving the Design and Engineering Innovation Honoree status within the High Performance Home Audio category. “As we anticipated, BeoVision Avant has followed in the footsteps of its predecessor, which was a game changer in the analogue era,” Marie Kristine Schmidt, Vice President Brand, Design and Marketing explains. She continues, “When we launched it last year we saw unprecedented demand and unsurpassed feedback from consumers around the globe that agreed with our vision of the future of television. With this family of Avants, we hope to offer consumers the choice they crave to make sure the TV can fit with their lifestyles and complement their homes. We not only wish to make sure the TV can blend into the background when not in use, but also add the wow factor with a show stopping piece of technology”. The designers at Bang & Olufsen have aimed at reducing the physical presence of BeoVision Avant when not in use. By offering both a motorised stand and a wall bracket option, you have the choice to either let this 75-inch television stand out or blend into your interior. Switch it on and watch it gracefully unfold, then just press one (1) button on BeoRemote One, and it finds your favourite position, your favourite channel and your favourite sound setting. Switch off the Avant 75 and it folds back the speakers and returns to its discrete resting place close up against the wall. These days it’s all about integration between smart devices, and the BeoRemote App 2.0 offers two-way control of the Bang & Olufsen TV from your iPad or smartphone, with a distinct and premium Bang & Olufsen feel of course. You get easy navigation, a handy keyboard for entering text, and the same operation philosophy from BeoRemote One including MyButtons functionality. In addition the iPad version includes an outstanding Electronic Programme Guide (EPG) function with extended information on the TV programmes, channel info and logos. This means you can check out other programmes or look for additional information on your iPad without disturbing the viewing experience for others watching the broadcast. The BeoRemote App 2.0 is available on the App Store and Google Play for free. The BeoVision Avant 75” is available in Bang & Olufsen stores from April 2015 at the recommended retail price of RM82,500.00 including BeoRemote One. Placement options on either wall or floor available too. For more information on Bang & Olufsen, head over to www.bang-olufsen.com   London No.1 Gin Cocktail at Mr. Brooks [Events] Paige and I headed over to Mr. Brooks in Bangsar Shopping Centre recently for the London No.1 Gin cocktail. The London No. 1 is one of a handful of gins actually distilled in London, and was created to echo the complex and full-bodied gins of yesteryear, with a modern twist – the gin has a striking turquoise-blue colour derived from maceration with gardenia flowers. The gin is made from high quality Suffolk and Norfolk grain used in distillation, and the small batch “pot still” method ensures a consistent quality. Finally 12 carefully selected botanicals are included to give it its distinctive taste. The recipe includes juniper, coriander and angelica – the first two botanicals provide fragrance and spiciness, whilst angelica, together with orris root, give body and structure to the other botanicals. Liquorice root imparts a freshness to the gin while the fusion of bergamot oil in the mix makes it somewhat reminiscent of Earl Grey tea. The citrus notes come from the fresh juicy flavours of orange and lemon peel, balanced with the thyme-like aromatics of savory, while the sweet, spicy notes of cinnamon and cassia bark complete the gin which is then rested for three weeks after distillation before being shipped out. The London No. 1 is delicate and elegant on the nose with marked spicy and balsamic notes. On the palate it is soft, elegant and mellow with a long refreshing finish, making it a sophisticated, well rounded gin containing 47% alcohol. London No. 1 goes great with cocktails and is very easy to drink (this comes from someone who really doesn’t like gin ie. me). London No. 1 is available at Mr. Brooks and other bars and entertainment outlets that serve premium liquor.   Cava Noche Y Dia’ Sparkling Wine is distributed in Malaysia by Iconic Wines (Malaysia). For more info or to purchase the wines you may contact Florian at florianr@iconic-wines.com . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2012/07/14/honda-launches-9th-generation-civic-civic-hybrid/

Honda Launches the 9th Generation Civic & Civic Hybrid

[Automotive News] I bet almost everyone has owned a Civic or had a family member or relative own one at one point of time. Cumulatively, the Civic has sold more than 19.7 million units worldwide since the launch of the 1st generation Civic back in 1972. Such is the popularity of the car that every new launch is eagerly anticipated. The 9th generation Civic was launched in the US a couple months back and many of my friends were wondering if the Malaysian version would be similar (albiet right-hand drive of course). In US, which is the biggest market for the Honda Civic, over 163,000 units has been sold in the first half of this year alone. Anyway the wait for over as Honda Malaysia launched the highly anticipated 9th generation Honda Civic and Civic Hybrid on 12 July 2012. In Malaysia, since the launch of the 7th Generation in 2003, the Civic has sold over 58,000 units to date. It has been simultaneously recognized as the market leader in non-national mid-size sedan segment. The success of the model was evident as there was a rather long waiting period for the 8th generation Civic launched in 2006 which saw sales of close to 49,000 units. . The new Honda Civic and Civic Hybrid En. Rohime Shafie, President & COO of Honda Malaysia, Mr. Yoichiro Ueno, MD & CEO of Honda Malaysia, Mr. Masayuki Sano, Large Project Leader of the new Civic, Mr. Katsunori Ishii, Vice President of Honda Malaysia (L-R) . Each generation of Civic evolves with a specific development theme in mind and the 2012 Civic’s concept is “futuristic and distinctive compact,” a direction that introduces new values that reach ahead of present-day needs. Built based on the popularity of the 8th Generation, the Civic has been remodeled with a higher level of refinements and style. “The All-New Civic has elevated the values of its predecessor on all fronts – fuel economy, performance, advanced smart technology and long-term values. More sophisticated and smart, the All-New Civic conveys a highly energetic appearance in its class,” Mr. Ueno remarked on the direction of the new Honda Civic. The designers also incorporated the concept of the new Civic being a “Advanced Smart Sedan” during the development, which resulted in a series of new technologies including a futuristic cockpit and a 5-inch intelligent Multi Information Display (i-MID) to promote smart and efficient driving. . The Honda Civic looking sporty with the optional Modulo kit . Eco Assist The All-New Civic is Honda’s first non-hybrid model fitted with Eco Assist functions, which helps driver improve the vehicle fuel efficiency. With its interactive function – changing colour background of the ambient meter display, it guides drivers to achieve better fuel efficiency thus helping to save fuel. . Interior In addition to the exterior and interior makeover, the safety standard in the All-New Civic has been enhanced. The Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) is now integrated with the Motion Adaptive EPS (Electric Power Steering) system that helps drivers to control during oversteer and understeer conditions. The new Civic has obtained a 5-star EURO NCAP safety rating for occupants and pedestrian. The refined Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure provides improved crash compatibility between vehicles of different size and ride height. . Hybrid – Save Fuel! Along with the petrol model, the new Civic also has a Hybrid variant featuring a larger 1.5L i-VTEC engine that is connected to a lighter, enhanced and more powerful electric motor. The new Civic Hybrid is the first in Malaysia to be fitted with a lithium-ion battery that can preserve more electricity with its compact size. Enhanced with smart technology, the new Civic Hybrid is the first hybrid to offer Smart Entry and Push Start Button in Honda’s Hybrid line-up for a more premium feel. . Powerplants Available in 1.8L, 2.0L, 2.0L with NAVI and Civic Hybrid, each variant is designed to better meet different individual needs and preferences. The line up is designed to appeal to both male and female. . Special After-Service Package Honda Malaysia is introducing a new and attractive after-service package to provide an enhanced ownership experience to the customers: 1. 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage* 2. 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage* for IMA battery 3. Extension of preventive maintenance interval from 5,000km to 10,000km 4. Free labour service up to 6 visits for every alternate paid service until 100,000km *subject to Honda’s terms and conditions of course . Colours The Honda Civic petrol variant is available in Alabaster Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Polished Metal Metallic and Taffeta White. The Honda Civic Hybrid variant is available in Frosty White Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Polished Metal Metallic and Taffeta White. . Price (On-the-Road with Insurance) 1.8S – RM115,980.00 2.0S – RM131,980.00 2.0 Navi – RM136,980.00 1.5L Hybrid – RM119,980.00 . More info at http://www.honda.com.my Subscribe to my public updates at https://www.facebook.com/timchewkc . The new Civic Hybrid – Desirable! Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/03/01/editors-note-march-2021-vivo-v20-pro-review/

Editor’s Note – March 2021: Vivo V20 Pro Review

[Editor’s Note] Vivo Malaysia passed me the Vivo V20 Pro which was launched in Malaysia back in end-October 2020 (which you can read about here – https://timchew.net/2020/10/21/vivo-malaysia-launches-the-vivo-v20-and-v20-pro/) and sadly, before I could actually put it to a field test, the authorities in Malaysia announced another round of the Movement Control Order which rendered me unable to try out this new mid-range smartphone in the field as all events and reviews were cancelled during the MCO. The Vivo V20 Pro is Vivo’s latest offering to the mid-range market and comes with a 6.44-inch 2400×1080 (FHD+) AMOLED screen, measures 7.39mm thin and weighs 170g which makes it very comfy in the hand. The Vivo V20 Pro comes with a 765G processor, with 8GB RAM and 128GB ROM, powered by a 4,000mAh (TYP) battery with vivo’s 33W FlashCharge technology. Charging the phone typically takes about half an hour to get me enough power to last me through the day. The V20 Pro is fitted with the Eye Autofocus Dual Front Camera, which includes a 44MP Super Definition Main Camera and an 8MP Super Wide-Angle Camera (this cam offers a 105° or 103.6° after correcting for distortion allowing you to capture super wide-angle selfies). On the back is the 64MP AF + 8MP AF (Wide-Angle/Macro/Bokeh) + 2MP(Mono) camera setup. (The cameras come with various modes and functions which you can read about in my feature.) Now, some points to note before we proceed any further: The Vivo V20 Pro is a mid-range smartphone, and should be compared to other mid-range phones in the market (and NOT flagship models)I shot using the phones AI mode for a number of reasons:Convenience – point, click on the subject (or just use the surprisingly accurate eye auto-focus for portraits), and snap!Time-constraint – we had a limited amount of time during food reviews/ shoots and I can’t be spending my time fiddling with all the Pro settings to get the perfect shotRealism (in real-world usage, most casual users shoot with the AI mode anyway)Photos that I shoot with smartphones are at most used for my social media/ this site (our principal photographer Andy Kho shoots with his professional gear when we have paid photoshoots or are engaged by clients)This was a non-sponsored/ paid engagement (I quite enjoy doing editorial reviews of the latest gadgets, especially those of cameras/ smartphones!)All the photos are non-edited, but were resized to save space (and thus there was a slight loss in quality) Now on to the first field test which was during the French weekend brunch at Chateau Dionne in Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur. The lighting was pretty dim and warm due to the restaurant having a very romantic ambiance (and I didn’t bring my video light along with me). Shot with the main rear camer Shot with the 8MP AF (Wide-Angle) rear camera Shot with the 8MP AF (Wide-Angle) rear camera We had the 3-course weekend brunch menu which is priced at RM198++ per pax which includes one starter, one main, and one dessert, as well as OEUF (63’C Free Range Egg, Piperade of Bell Pepper, Crouton), freshly baked French baguette and croissants served with French butter and jam, and seasonal canapés. OEUF – 63’C Free Range Egg, Piperade of Bell Pepper, Crouton Starter: FOIE GRAS – “Rougié” Foie Gras Au Torchon, Figs, Brioche Main: BŒUF WELLINGTON – Beef Wellington, Seasonal Vegetables, Perigourdine Sauce Main: PÂTES – Orzo Pasta Risotto, Tiger Prawn, Squid, Crustacean Foam Dessert: SOUFFLE – Grand Marnier Soué, Orange, Vanilla Ice Cream Dessert: TARTE AU CHOCOLAT – 74% Dark Chocolate Tart, Sansho Pepper, Raspberry Ice Cream PLATEAU DE FROMAGE – Assortment of Cheese, Dried Fruits, Pecan, Sour Dough Petit Four – Canelés and Chocolate Truffles I regret forgetting to bring my video light, however, this is a good example of how the rear camera system performs in a situation without additional lighting which is more than adequate for photos for Instagram and other social media platforms (with some post-editing or editing in Instagram). Next up, I decided to use the Vivo V20 Pro to snap some behind the scenes photos during one of our MHB Digital (I run a digital, content, live-streaming, social media and influencer marketing agency which you can view here: http://mhbdigital.com) professional photoshoots with our Instagrammers. The restaurant was lit with colour-changing LED lights due to its “futuristic concept” therefore this was an opportunity to see how it performed under various colours. I was mostly shooting one-handed as the other hand was assisting our principal photographer Andy Kho with the lights, or holding a gimbal with another phone shooting (behind-the-scenes) video. Fortunately, the phone managed to compensate for me not holding it super steady with two hands (impressive as no optical image stabilisation is listed in the specs). MHB Digital’s Principal Photographer Andy Kho in action with his DSLR As expected, the Vivo V20 Pro performs well in good lighting so no complaints here. Moving further inside the restaurant, the interior lighting was more blue-ish. The Vivo V20 Pro’s rear camera system had no issues with this setting. Performs well in white lighting. I like how the colour pop! I was quite impressed with the sharpness and clarity of this shot To be fair, most smartphones (even flagship models) struggled with this colour in the light tunnel. Portrait and Selfie Modes The girls really loved the front camera with its beauty mode (I set it at only 20% to prevent the photos from being over-enhanced). A really impressive feature was that the front camera system was pin-point accurate due to the eye-autofocus which is usually only found on flagship, and/ or digital SLR cameras. When you’re shooting in portrait mode with the rear cameras, the Vivo V20 Pro actually guides you where to place the subject’s face (which I noticed is mostly based on the rule of thirds), then automatically activates a countdown to shoot once you do so. This is a great feature for Insta-boyfriends and will definitely reduce the amount of frustration, and retaken photos! BTW Vivo… if you have a hair darkening auto-edit feature, that would really be very useful for me! I also tried the Portrait mode during a simple birthday lunch with my friend, and she absolutely loved the Vivo V20 Pro’s camera! In fact, practically every one of my female friends who tried the selfie/ portrait modes absolutely loved the Vivo V20 Pro! The most common remark I received was “With this phone I don’t have to use Meitu/ Beauty Cam to edit my selfies!”. In conclusion, I enjoyed my time with the Vivo V20 Pro (a good two+ months!) and in my opinion, it is a pretty decent mid-range smartphone. If you’re a female Android smartphone who’s looking for a mid-range smartphone, don’t think any further, just go the nearest Vivo store or dealer, try the phone for yourself, and I bet that you will end up buying it! Features I liked about the Vivo V20 Pro Elegant colour of the phone made it look very premiumAdequately large battery to last a day without rechargingLightweight in the hand, good for heavy users like myselfNo discernable lag while using (non-game) appsAbove-average rear camera system with accurate colour reproduction especially in bright lighting conditionsReally superior portrait and front camera/ selfie function even in low-light conditionsPin-point accurate eye auto-focusSuper Anti-Shake video What I disliked about the phone: The speakers were rather sharp (a lot of treble) which made listening on the phone’s in-built speaker a bit painful after a while (this I remedied by connecting it to a Bluetooth speaker/ earphones when I was watching media or live streams)The rear camera system was slightly less-impressive when shooting objects in low light conditions, but it’s something that’s expected and can be remedied with some post-editingThe phone is unsuitable for graphics-intensive games (no surprise here). More basic games are fine (I played F1 Manager without any issues). Get a flagship like Vivo’s X series phones if you’re looking to play graphics-intensive games. Updated – I also managed to use the Vivo V20 Pro at the following events: Preview of the buka puasa buffet at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur – https://timchew.net/2021/03/14/sajian-merentasi-zaman-buka-puasa-buffet-2021-at-four-seasons-hotel-kuala-lumpur/ Setting: Our preview was at 4.00pm in the afternoon thus there was lots of ambient light due to the huge windows hence lighting was no issue at all. The colour reproduction was satisfyingly accurate, while the clarity was also above expectations (even when I was shooting through the protective Plexiglass for some shots). I got to try out the rear wide-angle camera for a number of shots and the quality was surprisingly good for a 8MP sensor! Preview of Ultime Kuala Lumpur – https://timchew.net/2021/03/09/preview-of-ultime-atelier-boulangerie-kuala-lumpur/ Setting: Our principal photographer Andy Kho assisted me with most of the photos (it was his first time using the smartphone). The meal started at 4.00pm in the afternoon in a private room with warm lighting and slight daylight light coming in through the window. As afternoon became evening, the dim lighting saw us bringing out a video light to provide some additional lighting. Andy and I both agreed that post-editing was needed for most of the close-up photos of the food shot during this session (however, we normally post-edit most of the photos we shoot with smartphones anyway, except those shot in bright daylight). Preview of the buka puasa buffet at InterContinental Kuala Lumpur I did three videos featuring basically the same content. First up was the Picture in Picture mode (forgot to set it to 1080p so this was shot in 720p). For the next video, I turned up the resolution to 1080p and enabled the Super Anti-Shake mode. Last but not least, I used the Super Anti-Shake mode (with 1080p) and connected the Vivo V20 Pro to my DJI Osmo Mobile 4. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/10/02/review-pietro-ristorante-italiano-at-damansara-heights-hoofed-at-ttdi/

Review: Pietro Ristorante Italiano at Damansara Heights & Hoofed at TTDI

[Restaurant Review]   MHB’s Shelyn was visiting from Penang, so Andy and I decided to bring her and her friend Yhee Ming to two (2) of our favourite F&B establishments in the Klang Valley namely – Pietro Ristorante Italiano in Damansara Heights, and Hoofed in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail. It’s been a while since my last visit to Pietro Ristorante Italiano in Damansara Heights which is one of my favourite Italian restaurants due to the delicious food, pricing which is not exorbitant, the location which is not too far away from my house, and the ample parking available in the evenings. In fact, our last visit was almost a year ago – https://timchew.net/2013/10/20/mhb-visits-pietro-ristorante-italiano-october-2013/ so a visit was definitely overdue! And if you’re looking for somewhere nice to bring your date for dinner, well the private dining rooms are certainly great for a romantic dinner with a loved one – https://timchew.net/2013/07/19/romantic-dining-spots-pietro-ristorante-italiano/ This time round, instead of the normal Italian fare that’s on the menu, Pietro arranged a special 6-course menu for us to showcase their versatility in preparing dishes for special occasions, events and functions. 6 course dinner! We chose one of the house white wines to go along with the meal as the appetizer, and both mains were white meat. Pietro’s house wines are quite reasonably priced at around RM88 to RM118 per bottle. Of course, you can opt for the more expensive choices but for casual drinking this bottle of white wine which was dry and fruity and cost less than RM100++ was actually pretty nice! Tuna Maguro Salad Tuna Maguro Salad – medium rare Maguro (tuna) served with braised red cabbage and cucumber relish This was a really pretty and colourful dish! Very visually stunning and the taste was no less impressive. The slices of pink tuna were flavourful and very fresh, and they were nicely complemented by the sourish taste of the slivers and morsels of vege on the plate resulting in a delightful mish-mash of flavours. Definitely a winning start to the meal! This was Shelyn’s favourite dish of the night! Green Pea Soup Green Pea Soup – creamy green pea soup served with chicken and garlic bread As it was a rainy night, a nice warm soup was really quite welcome. Now I’m really not a fan of green peas and my mom really had a hard time making me eat my peas when I was small, so I was rather hesitant when I saw this but to my surprise it was really not at all the green vege bland tasting soup I was expecting. The taste of peas was not overpowering and the little savoury bits of chicken and the garlic bread added some variance in texture and flavour. A little rich but that’s generally how I like my soups. I hope Pietro will include this one in their regular menu as it’s something I’ll definitely order again in the future apart from my all time favourite soup at Pietro, their Wild Mushroom Soup. Fusilli Pomodori Fusilli Pomodori – spiral pasta cooked in spicy tomato sauce and served with Parmesan cheese Now this one is my favourite dish of the night. Al dente fusilli in a tangy and cheesy sauce which achieved the perfect balance of creaminess, savouriness and acidity together with some slight acidity. Looks unassuming and simple yet it explodes with flavour! I will recommend to the Pietro management that this hearty dish be permanently included in the menu. Jumbo Prawns Jumbo Prawns – grilled prawns served with fennel salad and anchovies butter sauce I thought that this dish could have done with a bit more of the lovely anchovies butter sauce (although not smothered in it like the butter crab in Chinese restaurants) however I guess for presentation sake the prawns couldn’t be swimming in sauce. In hindsight, perhaps I should have tried requesting for more sauce. Please sir, may I have some more…sauce? Alpollo Alpollo – chicken breast rolled with eggplant and served with creamy truffle potato and rosemary jus Essentially a chicken roulade, the chicken breast (my least fav part of a chicken) was surprisingly tender and juicy. However again I wished for more of the delightful rosemary jus to go with this dish. Really enjoyed the truffle mashed potatoes which were so fragrant! From watching Masterchef USA and Hell’s Kitchen, I know Gordon Ramsay is not too fond of using truffle oil as it can easily overpower the taste of the dish however I think used in small quantities and with the right ingredients, truffle oil can really enhance an otherwise ordinary food item. Chocolate Pie Chocolate pie – bittersweet chocolate pie with raspberries There’s only one (1) word to describe this dessert – DECADENT! Eating the rich bittersweet chocolate with its firm texture was rather like eating chocolate, only a bit softer and I do love my chocolate! The berries on the side lent some acidity to cut through the richness so you could just go on eating and eating until you finish up the whole thing. A lovely end to the meal indeed!   So if you’re looking for somewhere a little out of the ordinary to host a small company dinner for 80 pax, or even a family get-together of 12 pax, or even a romantic dinner for two (2), Pietro can customise a special menu to suit your budget however do arrange with them well in advance. You could even request for one of the three (3) private rooms which have different sizes to suit your party or take up the large dining area which can hold up to 80 pax in cocktail setting. Or should you simply feel like having some good quality Italian food, you can just pop over for lunch or dinner, however I do strongly recommend that you call ahead to make a reservation.   Pietro Ristorante Italiano is located at Ground Floor Bangunan ECM Libra 8, Jalan Damansara Endah, Taman Damansara Endah, 50490 Kuala Lumpur   Operating Hours: Lunch: 11.00am – 3.00pm Dinner: 6.00pm – 11.00pm   For info or reservations call 03-2093 6433 Find them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pietro-Ristorante-Italiano/234028306654577 or visit their website at http://www.pietro.com.my/   Hoofed at TTDI After dinner at Pietro, we adjourned to Hoofed in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail for some drinks (as opposed to painting the town red at Zouk Club as we normally would) and some quality conversations. If you’ve been following this site over the last two years, you’d remember that I did previously do a review – https://timchew.net/2013/06/20/casual-dining-hoofed-ttdi/ While its sister outlet Tom, Dick & Harry’s which is located below on the ground floor, is more of a sports bar reknowned for its fresh ice cold beers, Hoofed is a wine bar with a good selection of wines We decided to go with The Guilty by Shinaz Estates – RM240++ Why is the wine called The Guilty? Well the legend is that a member of the Shinas family was a judge and after retiring from the judiciary decided to take up the family business but instead of going by vintage which is commonly how wines are named, he decided to name it after legal terms hence the wines are named – The Guilty, The Innocent, The Verdict and Sweet Justice! The Shinas family heritage is Greek, with wine making stemming back over 8 generations. However they migrated to Australia in the early 1950′s, and originally they never sold the wines they made, they would consume a great portion of it and the balance of the wine was gifted to family and friends. But the demand for their wines grew so much that they decided to form Shinas Estate Australia in 2002. To this day Shinas Estate has remained a micro boutique winery making wines the traditional way, with wine-making secrets and methods passed down through the generations. Shinas Estate is based on the outskirts of Mildura, Victoria on the Murray river, and the region’s Mediterranean climate and ancient soils make it ideal for growing premium grapes. The Guilty is produced from premium vineyards. Due to its limited production, Hoofed informs me that there are only around 900 bottles in Malaysia! The wine is made from low yielding old vines dating back to 1898, and aged in older French oak, giving it a ripe shiny blackberry red colour. On the nose it gives cherry, vanilla and peppery spice aromas. It is a full-bodied wine with smoky vanillin oak, cherry and strawberry fruits, chocolate and mocha flavours, resulting in a big, rich, velvety smooth package. The Guilty is a juicy wine with fine tannins, with the pepper detected on the nose making a re-appearance on the powerful finish. I’m generally not a big fan of full bodied wines, however I will gladly make an exception for The Guilty as it’s a really nice and easy wine to drink yet departs some complex and intricate flavours! Lam Yee Fried Pork – RM21.00++ To go along with the wine we had some delicious Lam Yee Fried Pork which is really perfect to accompany wine or beer! Crispy fried pork that’s tender on the inside and extremely flavourful with some vege on the side which is more a garnish. Eat it with the creamy accompanying sauce or on its own. If I didn’t have such a big dinner I would have finished the whole plate. Jasmine and her friend joined us there Jasmine is an actress and you can catch her in some local and Singaporean dramas Hoofed remains one of my favourite wine bars in the suburbs with its chilled out ambience, wide selection of wines, and delicious porky food so do check it out if you’re around Taman Tun Dr. Ismail.   Hoofed is located at No. 18A, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Operating hours: Mondays to Saturdays – 5.00pm to 12.00+ midnight (closed on Sundays) Telephone: 03-77288567   *Hoofed is non-halal and serves alcohol and pork   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/06/27/luminox-bear-grylls-survival-rule-of-3-tide-series/

Luminox Bear Grylls Survival Rule of 3 #Tide Series

Bear Grylls challenged Luminox to advance its efforts toward sustainability even further in 2022. The CO2 neutral Luminox achieved this goal by using a new upcycled plastic material for the new edition of the Bear Grylls watches in order to live up to the standards of the internationally renowned ultimate survivalist. As a result, a collection of timepieces was created that included three of the most crucial facets of the Luminox and Bear Grylls partnership: survival, making every second count, and sustainable materials. The brand-new Survival Rule of 3 (Ro3) X #Tide Series is made of the environmentally beneficial #Tide material, which is created from waste ocean plastics. The existing CARBONOXTM material’s vital qualities of durability and water resistance are both present in this environmentally friendly material. It comes in two variations made of #tide recycled plastic: black dial with black strap and black dial with orange strap. The Ro3 is also printed on a removable sliding tab on the watch strap: 3 Minutes without AIR, 3 Hours without SHELTER, 3 Days without WATER, 3 Weeks without FOOD. The special dial design includes an oversized ‘3’ on the dial, a nod to the survival rule, which is balanced by the Bear Grylls Never Give Up logo at 9 o’clock. As with every other Luminox timepiece, it incorporates the Luminox Light Technology, ensuring that the dial of the timepiece is visible in any lighting conditions. The model boasts a 45mm case and water resistance to 200 meters with Grylls’ signature orange crown. On the case back is the Luminox logo etched alongside Grylls’ Never Give Up motto and the brand’s long term sustainability partner, #Tide. “Survival comes down to time and with this new release I want to respect the Rule of 3. Whether you are an adventurist or just an enthusiast, understanding this rule reminds us to be smart about the time we have and to be humble. I am proud of the new watch and the case material which will result in less plastic in our oceans.” Bear Grylls Luminox is a pioneer in sustainability for the watch industry. Not only has Luminox made leaps and bounds in the watch manufacturing process with recycled and upcycled materials, but had also been CO2 neutral since 2020. The Luminox Bear Grylls Survival Rule of 3 is the ultimate watch for any and every adventurer, built not only to survive, but to help protect the environment. Luminox watches are available at the following departmental stores and other leading watch retailers.  Parkson at Pavilion  Level 3, Pavilion, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Parkson at One Utama  Lot G 320, F 320, S 320, 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Lebuh Bandar Utama 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Daruh Ehsan, Malaysia. SOGO Kompleks SOGO, 3D Fashion Arena, 190, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman 50100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. SOGO  Central i-City, Unit G-01, No 1, i-City, Persiaran Multimedia, Seksyen 7, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. For further information and the full list of authorised watch retailers, call Crystal Time (M) Sdn Bhd at +603 2938 3938 or head over to www.luminox.com.sg Photo credits: Crystal Time . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2011/03/19/htc-incredible-s-launch/

HTC Incredible S Launch

HTC launched their newest smartphone along with a special HTC/ Digi outlet called Cubic Platforms at Sunway Giza which provides various services (pay bills, buy HTC phones, send your phone for service, etc. etc.) and houses a cafe which serves good coffee and light snacks. The ever-so-sweet Michelle Phoon with the HTC Incredible S The delicious looking Belle Lee was one of the HTC girls too! As was Queen'ce who I think has a 'girl next door' look. The services offered at Cubic Platforms The HTC Incredible S Unfortunately no Tomcat in the middle this time...   Get more info on the HTC Incredible S here. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/04/26/lg-convention-2016-the-future-of-home/

LG Convention 2016 – “The Future of Home”

[Tech & Gadgets] Travel social media influencer Ee Fee (right) with a pretty girl   LG Electronics Malaysia (LG) unveiled its latest range of innovations at the LG Convention 2016 on 21 April 2016. The convention was themed ‘The Future of Home’, and introduced some of the brand’s new home entertainment and home appliance technologies that hopes to transform the way people live, work and play. Three innovations namely the LG 4K OLED TV, LG TWIN Wash™ and LG CordZero™ series were the highlights of the convention this year. “Our customers have always been the focal point of our business. That is why we strive to offer the best innovations to them every year. The LG Convention 2016 themed ‘Future of Home’ is yet another opportunity for the brand to introduce award-winning innovations that are recognised globally for its achievements – offering superior technology, aesthetic designs, high performance and energy efficiency. A combination that will be a driving factor to continuously enrich the lives of our customers in Malaysia,” said David Oh Managing Director, LG Electronics (M) Sdn Bhd. LG is committed to creating products that deliver energy savings without sacrificing performance or style, and is recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with the 2016 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year–Sustained Excellence Award for continued leadership in protecting the environment through energy-efficient home entertainment and home appliance products.   LG 4K OLED TV LG is a pioneering company in OLED display technology and its new 4K OLED TV is a complete package that offers high dynamic range (HDR), infinite contrast ratio, and a slimmer design, winning the Innovation Award in CES 2016 for its superior display. The 4K OLED TV is enhanced by high dynamic range (HDR), a technology that provides infinite contrast ratio for unmatched clarity. Colours are more realistic on LG’s new TV can display the whitest of white and darkest of black resulting to superior image quality. This ability ensures that images are displayed in perfect black as well as in vibrant colours, making LG’s 4K OLED TV capable of HDR and Dolby Vision viewing. The LG 4K OLED TV is very different from the conventional LCD displays whereby the LED backlight locally dims the entire sections of the screen. The self-lighting pixel technology in the OLED enables each pixel on an OLED panel to switch on and off independently resulting in crisp, vibrant colors and shadow details, even when bright objects are directly next to deep, dark areas. The LG 4K OLED TV has a premium, slim and classy design and comes with LG’s unique Picture-on-Glass concept, and an integrated Sound Bar speaker by Harmon/Kardon.     LG TWIN Wash™   LG’s twin load washing machine features its revolutionary TWIN Wash™ System that helps users wash two loads of laundry at the same time. The TWIN Wash™ System is a new category of washing machine introduced by LG with a space-efficient mini washer in the pedestal, with overall cycle times reduced with two wash cycles happening simultaneously via its separate compartments. The TWIN Wash™ System also has the added benefit of allowing users to separate their laundry – delicate from regular clothes, whites only from coloured clothes, heavily soiled from normal wear.  LG’s new washer-dryer pair makes washing more convenience with the door aligned with the drum’s centre, positioned higher than other conventional models. It is also tilted to a more accessible six degree angle, so users don’t have to bend over as much to put clothes in or remove them. Visibility with the door closed is also increased and the newly designed sliding detergent box at the top reduces the likelihood of messy detergent spills.     LG CordZero™   In the Home Appliances segment is the LG’s CordZero™ series featuring a Canister, Handstick and Hom-Bot. The CordZero™ Canister powered by RoboSense™ is introduced for the first time in Malaysia – a technology that enables the device to follow users around during cleaning without having to drag the cylinder around on its hose. The CordZero™ Handstick features an innovative built-in lithium-ion battery Dual Power Pack™ providing 200 watts of suction power and continuous cleaning for up to 40 minutes in regular power mode. LG’s Hom-Bot is enabled with self-learning technology, and this smart cleaner remembers your cleaning history, ensuring that every corner of your house is clean including common out-of-sight locations. The CordZero™ series employs LG’s Smart Inverter Motor™ for superior performance with improved efficiency and durability in a compact size, without a power cord, you can clean freely from room to room without any tangling wires or the hassle of plugging and unplugging the device, helping to reduce overall cleaning time.    The LG Convention 2016 also featured other LG innovations like the SUPER UHD TV, home speakers, refrigerators, top load and bottom load washing machines, air conditioner, dishwashers and many more.     For more info, head over to http://www.LG.com   Girls being girls… Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/04/02/ferrari-f12berniletta-launch/

Ferrari F12berniletta Launch

[Automobile] I’m quite the Ferrari fan. Have been since Michael Schumacher used to race in their F1 team and it spilled over to my love for their roadcars. So it was with much anticipation and glee that I went to Zebra Square in KL on 21 March 2013 for the official launch of the Ferrari F12berniletta in Malaysia by Naza Italia. The F12berlinetta is one of the most powerful and high-performance road-going supercars ever offered by the Prancing Horse, second only to the recently built LaFerrari (unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show 2013). The F12berlinetta combines extreme performance with benchmark efficiency and Italian flair. It’s also the first in a new generation of Ferrari V12s that have reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by an impressive 30 percent – a result achieved through extensive research and development which focused on efficiencies of the whole vehicle: engine, aerodynamics, tyres and weight. . The welcoming party! Checked out some of the Ferraris on display outside the hall before I went in. Here’s the Ferrari California. The Ferrari FF which is a four-seater and 4-wheel drive The Ferrari 458 which has a 4.5L V8 engine (now you see where the name comes from?) OK after snapping enough shots outside I popped into the hall After a couple of rounds of speeches the car was finally unveilled! The prancing horse! F12 berniletta closeup of the rear numberplate . Ok ok enough teasing. Here’s the car. . The Ferrari F12 berniletta – what a beauty! Check out the 20″ rims! The Ferrari F12berniletta is powered by a new 740hp (730bhp) mid-front V12 engine that delivers 690 Nm of torque of which 80% is readily available at 2500rpm! Look at the red leather wrapped interior! I just had to have a pic in it Then helped to take one for MHB’s Wan Ting Here’s a shot of the rear And another one from the other side Not forgetting the Ferrari models The pretty L’Oreal Mok (L) and her colleague MHB’s Melissa and Wan Ting with the Ferrari F12berniletta Managed to catch Daphne Iking for a shot after she finished MC-ing the event . Its engine, dashboard and seats have both been lowered, the wheelbase is shorter and a new suspension and gearbox layout have enabled a more compact rear. The outcome is a lower, narrower and shorter vehicle than its predecessor and, coupled with a chassis constructed from 12 different alloys of aluminium (some of which are being used for the first time in the automotive sector), the F12berlinetta is 70kg lighter with an increase of 20 percent in torsional rigidity. Beautifully balanced, this supercar boasts ideal weight distribution of 54 percent over the rear axle as well as a lower centre of gravity pulled further back in the chassis. . F12berlinetta technical specifications   Engine Type                                              65° V12 Bore/stroke                                 94 x 75.2 mm Total capacity                            6262 cc Compression ratio                     13.5:1 Maximum power                       545 kW (740 CV) at 8250 rpm Specific power output              118 CV/l Maximum torque                      690 Nm at 6000 rpm Maximum revs                          8700 rpm Dimensions and weight Length                                      4618 mm Width                                        1942 mm Height                                      1273 mm Wheelbase                                2720 mm Front track                              1665 mm Rear track                               1618 mm Dry weight*                            1525 kg Kerb weight*                          1630 kg Weight distribution              46% front, 54% rear Weight/power ratio              2.1 kg/CV Fuel tank                                  92 l Wheels and tyres Front                                        255/35 ZR 20 9.5J Rear                                         315/35 ZR 20 11.5J Front (winter tyres)                  255/35 ZR 20 9.5J Rear (winter tyres)                   305/35 ZR 20 11.5J Carbon-ceramic brakes (CCM3) Front                                        398 x 223 x 38 mm Rear                                         360 x 233 x 32 mm Electronic controls ESC                                         Stability control High-performance ABS/EBD    High-performance anti-lock braking system with electronic brake balance F1-Trac                                    F1 traction control E-Diff 3                                    Third generation electronic differential SCM-E                                    Magnetorheological damping control with twin solenoids Gearbox F1 dual-clutch 7-speed Performance Top speed                               over 340 km/h 0-100 km/h                              3.1 sec 0-200 km/h                              8.5 sec Consumption and Emissions (ECE + EUDC combined cycle) Consumption**                         15l/100 km CO2 emissions**                        350 g/km *With lightweight options **ECE+EUDC with HELE system . More info at http://www.kualalumpur.ferraridealers.com/ or http://www.facebook.com/nazaitalia 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 . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/10/15/omakase-menu-at-hagi-japanese-cuisine-ttdi/

Omakase Menu at Hagi Japanese Cuisine, TTDI

Watch the higher resolution version at https://www.facebook.com/mhbdigital/videos/365823494537118 MHB Digital’s resident food writer Kelly Siew (who blogs at https://kellysiewcooks.com/) and I recently headed over to Hagi Japanese Cuisine in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, to try one of the restaurant’s three (3) omakase menus. <p value="<amp-fit-text layout="fixed-height" min-font-size="6" max-font-size="72" height="80">Hagi Japanese Cuisine was named after the Japanese fall flower (also known as the Japanese bush clover) that's commonly found in the Japanese countryside. The restaurant aims to evoke the essence of traditional Japanese dining experiences, emphasising on freshness on every platter. Hagi Japanese Cuisine was named after the Japanese fall flower (also known as the Japanese bush clover) that’s commonly found in the Japanese countryside. The restaurant aims to evoke the essence of traditional Japanese dining experiences, emphasising on freshness on every platter. HAGI’s signature dishes are prepared using the finest ingredient delivered directly from the renowned Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo. HAGI offers a variety of pork free omakase menus which start from RM180 going up to RM380 per pax, as well as a variety of a la carte dishes such as salads, appetisers, sashimi, sushi, nigiri, yakimono, shokoji, menrui, mushimono and even wagyu! Some of Hagi’s signature dishes include: ‘Unagi Hitsumabushi’ – A spin-off from the traditional grilled eel rice bowl, this classic specialty dish from Nagoya has a distinct 3-way eating procedure. ‘Hagi Hiyashi Somen’ – Hagi’s signature somen noodles is a must-try Japanese summer dish. Topped with sea urchin & salmon roe, the refreshing dish served in a chilled bowl is the go-to to beat the heat on a sunny day. ‘Akazu’ – To round off a wholesome Edo style dining experience, all premium grade short grain rice used in HAGI are seasoned with red vinegar to bring out the full taste, colour and character. Every dish in HAGI is curated by the Head Chef Yee Fung who has over a decade of Japanese culinary craft experience under his belt. His forte of ‘Moritsuke’ – the art of harmonising space and food on plating, is at the heart of HAGI’s philosophy of serving with ‘pride, passion and perfection’. The drinks menu includes a variety of Japanese sakes, beers and whiskies. The interior of the restaurant features an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs in actionThere’s a good selection of various sake, Japanese whisky, and beer. Hagi Japanese Cuisine is located at: <p value="<amp-fit-text layout="fixed-height" min-font-size="6" max-font-size="72" height="80">18, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 1, <br>Taman Tun Dr Ismail, <br>60000 Kuala Lumpur, <br>Malaysia.18, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Operating Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm and 6pm – 10:30pm Telephone: +6014-358 9434 Website: www.hagi.com.my Sign up for your own free WordPress site at https://wordpress.com/ Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/11/08/bentley-inaugurates-a-new-sales-and-aftersales-centre-in-milan-italy/

Bentley Inaugurates a New Sales and Aftersales Centre in Milan, Italy

[Automotive News] Bentley Milano officially opened its new home in the Italian capital of elegance, technology and innovation. Appointed as an official partner in 2016, the retailer has supported the brand’s continuous growth in the Italian market ever since.  Bright and welcoming, the new Bentley Milano salon consists of a 500 square metre lounge in addition to 1,000 square metres of outdoor space and 800 square metres that are devoted to the new workshop.   Customers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the entire range of Bentley cars and to be able to engage in the configuration of their car in a dedicated area, where they will be able to touch the leathers, dashboard finishing materials, stitching and even experience Mulliner’s personal specification. Another area is dedicated to the brand, its history, its life today which speaks of elegance, design, inclusion and diversity, as well as sustainability, a living room where you can talk and learn about the history of Bentley of yesterday, but also the brand life today and the future vision. Bentley Milano’s services include the presence of a notary in the office for administrative procedures, and above all, an attentive and punctual aftersales service, “tailored like a tailor-made garment” for its customers. The retailer guarantees, among other things, the custody of the car, tire change service, ordinary and extraordinary overhaul, services of Bentley authorized bodywork, replacement car and, where requested by the customer, a collection and return service. The new home will display the entire timeless designed Bentley range of products. The Flying Spur range is positioned as the world’s definitive four-door grand tourer, inspiring the imagination – of both the driver and the drive – with its elegance of form and magical combination of luxury, performance and innovative technology. The Flying Spur is currently offered in two different powertrains and from Q1 2022 onwards in three: the essence of the FS powered by a V8, the exquisite powered by the iconic W12, and soon offering the hybrid system, which will make it the progressive Flying Spur. The Bentayga, the ultimate go-anywhere model, offers power, luxury and usability with its V8 and hybrid powertrain. That car created the luxury SUV sector when launched back in 2015 sits at the pinnacle of luxury mobility. New Bentayga builds on the success of that ground-breaking original, with the latest on-board technology, added usability and an even more cossetting, hand-built cabin. Also designed, engineered and handcrafted in Crewe, England, the new Bentayga is offered with an efficient plug-in Hybrid powertrain, Bentley’s proven, 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, or a powerful 6.0-litre 12-cylinder petrol engine. There’s also the Continental GT in its Coupe and Convertible versions, as well as the pinnacle of the Continental GT range, the new GT Speed, the ultimate performance-focused expression of Bentley’s definitive Grand Tourer complete the portfolio. The GT Speed maintains the luxury, comfort and usability of its siblings, while equipped with an updated version of Bentley’s renowned 6.0-litre W12 TSI engine, delivering 659 PS (650 bhp) whilst maintaining an extraordinary 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) of torque. With exceptional handling, this results in a top speed of 355 km/h (208 mph) and 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds (0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds).      The opening night of the new Bentley headquarters in Milan saw the participation of customers and friends of the Bentley brand who met at the new home, in a typically Bentley atmosphere, where elegance and innovation were the settings for the splendid Bentley cars, with an exceptional guest, the Bentley Continental GT Pikes Peak, the record-setting winning car in 2019.       “Growing up in one of the markets where the passion for cars and driving pleasure is a point of reference is very important for a brand of excellence like Bentley. Bentley Milano is one of our 70 retailer locations across Europe where the public’s interest in the brand has grown steadily over the past few years, in line with our global half-year record performance announced some months ago. I am delighted to be part of the inauguration of this new facility which is the result of our growth ambitions and success with our new Bentley models on Italian roads. Elegance, comfort and unmistakable design are the soul of Bentley models and with the recent launch of the GT Speed, we are adding a fantastic sporting accent to the range offering.” Balazs Rooz, Regional Director Bentley Motors Europe  “Italy is also benefiting from Bentley strategy across Europe. I am very proud to represent such an elegant, innovative and dynamic brand as Bentley in our country. If I go back to 2016 when the Fassina Group was chosen to represent Bentley, I realize how far we have come together to date. Each year we have improved our position, increased sales and increased success with the public. For us, 2021 is a new starting point, characterized by our family motto “passion guides us.”Ado Fassina, Dealer Principal Bentley Milan and Padua Bentley Milan is part of the European Retailer Network of 70 retail partners covering 35 territories.   Since 2016, Italian customers can access three distinct sales and after-sales locations: Bentley Milano, Bentley Padova and Bentley Firenze. And two authorized workshops in Rome and Opera, just outside Milan, Italy. Photo credits: Bentley . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/11/16/christmas-and-festive-promotions-2018-at-conrad-hong-kong/

Christmas and Festive Promotions 2018 at Conrad Hong Kong

[Travel News] This slideshow requires JavaScript.   The Conrad Hong Kong’s decadent festive programme for the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations this year. which includes a host of specially tailored festive activities, seasonal menus and bespoke celebration packages.   Lavish Seafood Market  Semi Buffet  at Brasserie on the Eighth Brasserie on the Eighth interior will once again be transformed into a snowy pop-up French winter market. A semi-buffet dinner allows diners construct a menu they desire. An all-you-can-eat station featuring freshly shucked French oysters, Boston lobsters and Alaskan king crab leg on the ice will be set up on 24, 25 and 31 December 2018 to further pamper diners with signature homemade foie gras terrine and classic but hearty main dish. Enticing choices include Slow-roasted A4 Wagyu Beef Tenderloin and A4 Wagyu Short Rib and Turkey Ballotine Stuffed with Duxelle Mushroom.    Heart-warming Affairs at Garden Café With a classic, gleeful setting, Garden Café features a heap of delicious offerings including Boston lobster, roasted whole American turkey and wagyu prime rib. Also, Chefs from the culinary team will show off their impeccable skills carving a jet-fresh fish sashimi.   Bubbly Champagne Afternoon Tea with Perrier-Jouët The Lobby Lounge will be having their Bubbly Perrier-Jouët Champagne afternoon tea from 1 December 2018 to 6 January 2019. The menu of the afternoon tea set carries an array of food items made with deluxe festive ingredients. Highlighted sweets include the Champagne-infused Kir Royale jelly with Champagne sabayon, raspberry and chocolate Champagne mousse cake, homemade Christmas stolen, festive spiced cookies and many more. At guest’s departure, the guests will also receive an Anemone bracelet with floral pattern as Christmas gift.   Finding the Perfect Pairing at Pacific Bar Pacific Bar has been a muse to wine aficionados and cheese lovers in town with its extensive selection of premium wines and cheeses. On 1, 8 and 15 December from 6pm to 9pm, the hotel’s cheese master will host a wine and cheese appreciation class over three glasses of wines and five kinds of cheeses. Priced at HK$480* per person, it offers guests an ideal occasion to kick back and relax in a pleasantly Saturday evening. In addition, starting from 26 November, the Pacific Bar will partner with Perrier-Jouët for an ultimate indulgence over Champagne, caviar and seafood. From HK$560*, the experience includes two glasses of Champagne and your choice of seafood or caviar. Festive Delicacies and Hampers at The Cake Shop The Cake Shop has hampers that are stylish with a European flair, with each gift box comprising highly sought after gourmet goodies from Europe. Those with a particular taste can even customize a unique hamper of their own to surprise their family and friends. A 15% discount will be offered for hampers and delicacies ordered on or before 9 December 2018.   Body Renaissance Discover a full range of treatments at The Health Club which relieve muscle tensions, brighten skin and cater to many more needs. Organic skincare products from the Italian brand Comfort Zone make the wholesome treat all the more fabulous. Share the restorative indulgence with your loved ones by selecting the treatment gift certificate and a line-up of luxurious body care products.    Extravagant Countdown Parties to 2019 The luxurious Executive Lounge on Level 59 offers a seafood buffet with front row seating for the amazing New Year’s Eve fireworks displaying over the Victoria Harbour. Alternatively, guests can head to the countdown party at Lobby Lounge and the alfresco Garden Café Terrace featuring a live band and DJ vibes with specially-concocted cocktails to usher in 2019. You can also host your festive and countdown parties with ease and in style at Garden Café Terrace. Starting from a two-hour of free-flowing of house white and red wines, beer, juices and soft drinks, together with a selection of freshly prepared grilled specialties and bite-sized delights, a selection of party proposals are available to make your party an event of the year!    For details and reservations, please visit ConradDining.com/Xmas2018 or call (852) 2822 5777    Images courtesy of Conrad Hong Kong. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/08/09/travel-hospitality-news-august-2019/

Travel & Hospitality News – August 2019

[Travel/ Hospitality] “Floating Breakfast” at Dusit Thani Maldives    Dusit Thani Maldives on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll – the Maldives’ first and only UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve – introduced a luxury ‘Floating Breakfast’ concept offering guests a memorable way to start the day in the privacy of its pools. Guests can choose one of two options: Floating Breakfast with a Demi Bottle of Champagne (375ml), or Floating Breakfast with soft drinks only.    Floating Breakfast with champagne      The first option is priced at USD 80++ for two persons, and, alongside the Champagne, also includes Eggs Royale; smoked salmon with green asparagus; a selection of baked goods and pastries; assorted fruits and nuts; various cheeses; light gourmet bites such as Iberico ham with tomato ciabatta, and other delicious treats.       The second option is priced at USD 60++ for two persons and comes with a selection of baked goods, dried fruits, various cheeses, light gourmet bites, freshly-squeezed seasonal juices, and tea/coffee. ‘Floating Breakfast’ is available via In Villa Dining at the resort’s signature two-bedroom Beach Residence, as well as at villas and pavilions which have private pools. Located just 35 minutes by seaplane from capital city Malé, and 10 minutes by speedboat from Dharavandhoo Domestic Airport in Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives comprises 94 villas and residences, along with three restaurants, two bars, and Dusit’s signature Devarana Spa. The resort is surrounded by a rich house reef, white sandy beaches and a turquoise lagoon. A well-equipped Kids Club adds to the resort’s family-friendly appeal.       For more info, head over to http://www.dusit.com/dusit-thani/en/maldives.html   . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/04/07/belvedere-vodka-x-ck-one-party/

Belvedere Vodka x ck one Party

[Event]   Providence KL at The Intermark, Kuala Lumpur played host to the “Belvedere Vodka x Calvin Klein Red Party” on 19 March 2014. The party featured the introduction of ck one’s latest fragrance, Red Edition, with stimulating, provocative and seductive fragrance notes for her, and bold, vibrant and stimulating fragrance notes for him. Guests got to enjoy two (2) exclusively crafted Belvedere cocktails by Providence’s talented mixologists, Coint and Loco, inspired by ck one Red Edition featuring watermelon tasting notes for the ladies, and Asian pear tasting notes for the gentleman.   My partners in crime for the night – Veron and her sister     Belvedere Vodka was first introduced to North America in 1996, and was the first to create a new standard for excellence in the vodka category and is credited with creating the luxury vodka segment. Belvedere’s all-natural, additive-free character, which is made entirely from Dankowskie Gold Rye and blended with water from its own pristine source, is appreciated my many all over the world today. Belvedere’s taste profile is distinctively soft with a subtle sweetness and a naturally smooth, clean finish. You can purchase Belvedere vodka in top nightclubs (such as Providence and Zouk Club KL) and restaurants in Malaysia and at fine wine and spirits retailers.     the bottle and packaging ck one Red Edition is a new interpretation of the iconic ck one signature flask, with the bottle emblazoned with the ck one logo in a red, powerful, industrial typeface, faded at one side for a hint of edge. The women’s bottle is clear glass with a red metallic cap and a glossy red outer carton, contrasted with the men’s version in smoke-tinted glass with a jet black carton.             the fragrance – for men bold – vibrant – stimulating fragrance: aromatic tonic woody Recommended Retail Price: edt 3.4oz/100ml RM215 ck one RED EDITION for men opens with a burst of the succulent juiciness of asian pear for a luscious top spiked with the energetic aldehydes. the heart comes alive with the irresistible sexiness of wet suede, while it blends with the fresh intensity of black pepper and ginger. a sexy dry down wraps the fragrance in sensuality, as vetiver haiti, creamy tonka bean, and captive musks collide.   Fragrance Notes: top: invigorating red pear mid: rich suede dry: sensual vetiver   For Him (Made by Coint): Add Belvedere Vodka (1/2oz), Grand Marnier (1/2oz), Kahlua (1/2oz), black syrup (1 drop), fresh lemon juice (1/2oz), simple syrup (1/2oz), and blackcurrant jam (1 bar spoon) into a shaker and fill with ice. Shake and strain into a Martini glass. Garnish it with a pear slice and it is ready to be savoured.   the fragrance – for her stimulating – provocative – seductive fragrance: addictive fruity floral Recommended Retail Price: edt 3.4oz/100ml RM215 ck one RED EDITION for women offers a new expression of freshness: uniquely energizing, yet daring and intense. as the fragrance opens, the bold vibrant freshness of juicy watermelon and violet leaves fuse with a burst of succulent fruits for a mélange of forbidden exploration. the notes are feminine and addictive, composed of warm white amber, sensual patchouli and intimate skin musk, to create a powerful blend of undeniable magnetism and seduction.   Fragrance Notes: top: juicy watermelon mid: invigorating florals dry: velvety musks   For Her Cocktail (Made by Loco) Add Belvedere Vodka (1/2oz), watermelon liqueur (1/2oz), Grenadine syrup (1/2oz) and fresh lemon juice (1/2oz) into a shaker and fill with ice. Shake and strain into a Martini glass. Garnish it with a watermelon slice and it is ready to be savoured. .   More info on Belvedere at https://www.facebook.com/belvederevodka or www.mhdm.com.my More info on ck one at http://www.luxasia.com/ Photo credits: Belvedere Malaysia (Moet Hennessy Diageo Malaysia) and author’s own . And here are some photos from the 2014 Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix which I attended courtesy of M.Scape. All photos were shot with the Sony Alpha 5000. . These three girls escorted us with umbrellas near the Paddock Club on a blazing hot day With Shen Yee, Mabel and Stephanie during the visit to the Ferrari garage The sporty and beautiful gull-winged Mercedes SLS is the official F1 safety car. Ever wondered what the race engineers are monitoring on the pit wall? Well here’s a closer look! The Team Lotus garage A closer look at Pastor Maldonado’s car Team Mercedes – they would eventually dominate and gain a 1-2 victory. A feat that has not been achieved since 1955.   Team Sauber’s drivers posing for some photos The action was fast and furious on track despite the new cars being slightly slower than the previous year’s cars. Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel had a good race and finished 3rd While his teammate Daniel Ricciardo didn’t have a good day and was forced to retire following some bad luck and which included an unsafe release from a pit stop which had the team pushing his car back to the pits to secure a loose tire. Spotted pretty Crystal near the Paddock Club   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/12/02/liquido-miss-bikini-malaysia-2013-grand-finale/

Liquido Miss Bikini Malaysia 2013 Grand Finale

[News] A group pic before the event began: L to R: Lee Wei Ni, Choo Mei Xian, Elaine Chee, Sandra Lee, Mocchi Tan, Nadia Hasbi (CEO of Liquido Malaysia), Summer Liew, Audrey Loke, Carron Kho, Gillian Benjamin, Iva Seow. . A confident woman is a beautiful woman. But Brazilian women bring it to a whole different level with their sensuality, style and complete ease of their own bodies and it’s that spirit that founder of Liquido Malaysia aims to bring to our shores. The Liquido Miss Bikini 2013 Grand Finale event held at The Pool on Saturday, 23 November 2013, with the 10 finalists exuding their confidence, beauty and individual personalities in Liquido apparel. The search was co-organised by Liquido Malaysia and Pixaworks Creative; and supported by the Brazillian Embassy of Kuala Lumpur while Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers was the official digital media partner. Founder of Liquido in Malaysia, Nadia Hasbi found herself based in Sao Paulo, Brazil and was impressed with the Liquido brand and the general positive self-image that Brazilian women have of themselves. “Liquido celebrates the proud, strong and confident woman. A woman who is not afraid to show the world who she is and carries herself with pride. And with that, we are in search of a role model who represents beauty, confidence and also practices a healthy lifestyle in Malaysia. Liquido helps empower women, as style is an extension of themselves, they feel proud and more self- assured while they work out, or whenever they wear Liquido pieces.” . Nadine Ann Thomas, Miss Universe Malaysia 2010 (right) was one of the judges for the finale. The Pool was packed with family, friends and supporters of the finalists. . The Liquido Miss Bikini 2013 competition kicked off in September 2013, utilising mainly social media to highlight the search, and received positive response from the Malaysian women who were attracted to what the brand represented. The search started off with auditions (which you can read about here – https://timchew.net/2013/10/15/liquido-malaysia-miss-bikini-2013-auditions-session-2/), which included a high fashion bikini studio shoot and intense interviews with the audition judges – singer songwriter Atilia Haron, versatile photographer Andy Kho and the bikini tycoon herself, Nadia Hasbi. Fifteen individuals were shortlisted and online voting commenced to form the 10 finalists who went to the grand finale. Prior the grand finale, the 10 finalists also participated in an outdoor photoshoot at Luna Bar (https://timchew.net/2013/11/11/liquido-miss-bikini-2013-search-behind-the-scenes-of-the-photoshoot/), took part in Living Social’s “Zombie Run”, and visited sponsors outlets such as CherryCo (https://timchew.net/2013/11/13/liquido-miss-bikini-malaysia-2013-at-cherryco/). The search attracted a very diverse bunch of women and these were the 10 finalists: 1. Mocchi Tan @ Tan Cho Kuan, 21, University Student Major in Marketing and Photography 2. Sandra Lee, 35, Systems Engineer 3. Choo Mei Xian, 27, Project Management Office Executive 4. Audrey Loke, 21, Interior Designer and Blogger (audreypuiyan.com) 5. Lee Wei Ni, 27, Online Fashion Entrepreneur (Peep Boutique) 6. Elaine Chee, 30, Freelance Talent and Clarion (M) Brand Ambassador 7. Carron Kho, 22, Quantity Surveyor and Model 8. Summer Liew @ Liew Zu Xing, 19, Student 9. Gillian Benjamin, 28, Training Fitness Manager 10.Iva Seow, 22, Student and Entertainment Designer .   . The finalists gave their best strut and answers buoyed by the loud support from the audience, trying their best to impress the Grand Finale judging panel which consisted of Nadine Ann Thomas, Miss Universe Malaysia 2010, Andy Kho and Nadia Hasbi. They were also challenged by photography shoot directions provided by selected members of the audience. The audience also had influence over the winner as the audience vote accounted for 30% of the final score. In the end there could only be one winner and Lee Wei Ni who amazed the judges during her Q&A session was crowned with a ring of flowers as she walked away with RM5,000.00 cash and a one-year brand ambassador contract with Liquido as well as prizes by the sponsors; Zalora, Biotherm, CherryCo Wax & Beauty Parlor, Peak Physique Health & Fitness Club, Living Social and Sally Hansen. 1st runner-up was clinched by Gillian Benjamin, followed by 2nd runner-up winner Carron Kho. Gillian walked away with RM2,000.00 cash while Carron won RM1,000.00 cash prizes, and both the girls were awarded with a brand ambassador contract with Liquido alongside sponsored prizes.     In addition, subsidiary titles were handed out to: Miss Confident: Mocchi Tan Miss Popular: Audrey Loke Miss Photogenic: Lee Wei Ni Miss Inspirational: Iva Seow . Here’s how their journey from auditions to finale panned out:   . Follow Liquido Malaysia’s Facebook page for more updates – https://www.facebook.com/LiquidoMalaysia More info on the search at http://www.liquido.com.my/miss-bikini-2013.html More info on Liquido at http://www.liquido.com.my Photo credits: Andy Kho Photography, and Liquido Malaysia Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/08/02/hospitality-news-august-2019/

Dining & Hospitality News – August 2019

[Hotel/ Dining] Guest Chef Gari Abdel at Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara Guest Chef Gari Abdel from Morocco    Crystal and I headed over to Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara on 1 August 2019 for official launch of the hotel’s “Flavours of Morocco” promotion in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Kuala Lumpur. The launch was held at Le Bar Cocktail & Stories and was officiated by Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara’s General Manager, Mr Franck Loison, and Madam Nawal Arifi, Deputy Head of Mission from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Kuala Lumpur. The hotel invited Moroccan guest chef, Gari Abdel from Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche to prepare authentic Moroccan cuisine. We got to try some of Chef Gari Abdel authentic Moroccan dishes such as Shorba Khodar with Lemon, Artichoke Violet M’charmel, Gambas Mçharmel, a variety of tanjin, and more. This was my first time trying Moroccan cuisine and I quite enjoyed it! Moroccan cuisine is heavily influenced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine and therefore features produce like lamb, olives, couscous, and eggplant. We also got to try the Moroccan mint tea which was sweet and refreshing.  The “Flavours of Morocco” promotion at Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara runs from 1 to 9 August 2019. Here are the culinary highlights to expect from Guest Chef Gari Abdel:-    Buffet Lunch at Kwee Zeen Available daily from 1 to 9 August 2019 – 12noon to 2.30pm RM124.00nett per person    Taste of Oceana at Kwee Zeen Every Friday, 2 & 9 August 2019 – 6.30pm to 10.30pm RM158.00nett per person    C’est La Vie Brunch at Kwee Zeen Sunday, 4 August 2019 – 12.30pm to 4.00pm RM188.00nett per person inclusive of free flow of house beverages    French Moroccan Set Dinner at Nizza 1 – 5 & 7 – 9 August 2019 – 6.30pm to 10.30pm    Moroccan Masterclass followed by Lunch at Nizza Every Friday, 2 & 9 August 2019 – 11.00am to 1.00pm RM180.00nett per person   Apart from the Moroccan cuisine, the award-winning So SPA at Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara will also be highlighting one of its award-winning treatments, the So Hammam Rituals. Whilst hammam has been at the heart of Moroccan culture for centuries, the So Hammam Ritual at So SPA, Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara combines socialising with friends with a deeply relaxing and soothing experience. The So Hammam Rituals is an experience of the Maghreb traditional treatments, which purifies the skin with Savon Noir Beldi olive-rich black soup as well as the wrap that includes a body mask. A full body massage with tea elixir and Argon oil to complete the journey. The So Hammam Rituals is available as part of So SPA menu and priced at RM590.00nett for 120 minutes.   For enquiries and reservations, email HA123-FB4@SOFITEL.COM or call (03) 2720 6688     Photo Credits: Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara and author’s own       French Week at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur   Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur will be hosting French Chef David Gache from the Shangri-La Group of Hotels and Resorts to showcase some of his amazing French cuisine for a week in August 2019. Chef David honed his culinary skills at Michelin starred restaurants in Switzerland and London before going on to expand his horizon in Vanuatu, the Middle East and South East Asia. He will be making a special appearance at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill to present a French gourmet experience, bringing some recipes all the way from his hometown to share with diners in Kuala Lumpur this month. Starting from 19 August to 24 August 2019, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur will celebrate the best of French Week by presenting dishes from the finest ingredients, bringing the taste of France in exquisite presentations right to the diner’s plates. Chef David will serve different set menus as well as an exclusive wine dinner. The dishes featured at French Week 2019 include Scallop Carpaccio with Green and Red Apples, Apricot “Tarte Fine” with Pan fried Foie Gras, Roasted Black Cod Fish Fillet, Herbed Crust, Lemon Dill Butter Sauce, Seabass fillet “En Papillote”, Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Gratin Dauphinois, Raspberrie Valhrona Chocolate Tarte, Citrus Vacherin and more. The Côtes du Rhône Wine Dinner will feature wines from the region of France. It will be held on 21st August 2019, priced at RM 395 nett per person.      For reservations, call +603 2332 9818 or email fbreservation.thkl@shangri-la.com     “Les Copains” Four Hands Dinner at Soleil, DC Mall    The role of a chef today is much different than it was a decade ago. Chefs used to be invisible, hidden behind the kitchen stove whipping together dish after dish, night after night without receiving much recognition. With the role of a chef changing over the years, so has the culture in the culinary world. Recipes, cooking techniques and knowledge which were once a closely guarded secret, have now become an open book. Chefs today are gaining celebrity status with worldwide acclaims and recognition bestowed upon them.     “Les Copains” is the theme of this 4-hands dinner which will be held over two nights – with mutual learning and friendship building among two great chefs who are renowned in the Malaysian gastronomic scene. After more than five years in each of their own restaurant, the collaboration between multiple award winning Chef Evert and Chef Darren goes beyond the means of providing a special meal, but to celebrate two restaurants which have held strong to their fine dining roots and beliefs. Soleil under the guidance of Belgium Chef Evert Onderbeke has won multiple awards both locally as well as internationally. Named Time Out KL’s Best European Restaurant from 2014 to 2016 and MIGF 2015 most outstanding dining experience, most innovative cuisine, food presentation and wine pairing during the festive month. Internationally, Soleil has been awarded by Wine Spectator Magazine an Award of Excellence for two consecutive years 2018 & 2019 in which only five restaurants in Malaysia have been recognised. DC Restaurant by Chef Darren Chin is no stranger to awards and recognitions too. Voted by Malaysia Tatler as T. Dining Best Independent Restaurant of 2018, MIGF 2018 Golden Cauldron winner for best all round restaurant and numerous other awards. For two nights only in September 2019, Soleil & DC Restaurant will play host to a unique culinary tour de force by two award-winning chefs and a very special wine pairing from the cellar of SW Wine Depot. This special event starts on 26 September 2019 at Soleil, and ends at DC Restaurant the following day, and features an 8-course, 4-hands collaboration degustation dinner menu. Priced at RM650++ per person, the two chefs are set to let loose and push boundaries to bring guests a gastronomic culinary adventure of epic proportions. While food will definitely be the highlight of this culinary tour de force, the carefully curated selection of wines will be served to complement the meal. Soleil’s sister company, SW Wine Depot will be releasing wines from their special cellar and offer two wine pairing packages to accompany the meal. Champagne and wines such as Dom Perignon, Bonnes-Mares a burgundy grand cru of Chambolle Musigny, Château Angelus of Saint-Émilion which only as recent as 2012 has been promoted to Grand Cru Classes A status and Château Haut Brion a Bordeaux 1st growth will be among the wine offered in the premium wine pairing for the night. Château Haut Brion, is one of only five 1st Growth wines besides Lafite Rothschild, Mouton Rothschild, Latour and Margaux.        For more info, head over to soleil.my or https://www.facebook.com/soleilrestaurant     . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/07/19/romantic-dining-spots-pietro-ristorante-italiano/

Romantic Dining Spots – Pietro Ristorante Italiano

[Romantic Dining Spots] Now those of you who have been following my blog over the last two (2) years would know that I’ve made a number of visits to Pietro Ristorante Italiano to try and review their food. This time though I’ve decided to try out their new “couples menu” as it was my partner’s 2Xth birthday. . Pietro Ristorante Italiano is located in Bangunan ECM Libra in the quiet neighbourhood of Damansara Endah. Damansara Heights. Our first stop was the wine cellar which houses a wide selection of wines and champagnes. The main dining hall on the ground floor is a combination of modern and stylish design. We got there rather early before the place filled up so I quickly snapped this pic before we headed upstairs to the private room. The view of the dining hall from the first floor The well-stocked bar The larger private room upstairs can fit up to a fourteen guests Nice sofas where you can have a conversation of coffee or wine For our dinner we used the smaller private room which fits up to 4 guests. For those of you who are a little confused on which utensils to use first follow this rule – start from the outside and work your way in Our first birthday celebration together Red wine for the occasion (this is NOT part of the package). There are house wine selections which are pretty decent or you can choose from the wide range in the cellar. Ask your server or the captain to help you choose something that suits your taste. Amuse Bouche – cauliflower mousse with avocado cream served with crispy smoked duck and truffle. The good thing about being in a private room is that you can use your hands when having fine dining and there’s no one to see you do it. We dipped the breadstick into the flavourful and delicate mousse which was rich and had a slight taste of the summer truffle (good quality truffle is not overpowering) while the smoked duck was nice and salty to cut through the richness. A balanced dish to start to the night! Appetizer – Pan Fried Chicken rolled with Foie Gras served with braised baby pear and a balsamic gorgonzola fondue. Another mixture of flavours and textures – sweet, sour, creamy and rich with her favourite – salad! Zuppa di Portobello – RM25.00 – Portobello mushroom soup with touch of cream. This was NOT part of the package but as I always love the Pietro’s mushroom soup we just had to have this with our meal. Delicious earthy flavours of the mushrooms balanced out by the cream. Entrée – Truffle Mushroom Risotto. Summer truffles used once again in this dish but it was not overpowering. Risotto is something I regard as “comfort food” and this one certainly didn’t disappoint! Beautifully seasoned and nicely sized pieces of mushrooms inside. Sorbet of the day to cleanse the palate before the main course. A nice zesty lime sorbet was just what we needed after the creamy dishes. Crispy Pan Fried Halibut served with potato ratatouille , baby vegetables, and butter cream seafood in guazzetto. She had this one but I did try it and the fish went so oh well with the butter cream sauce! I did enjoy the potato ratatouille as well but it did conjure up images of a mouse cooking it (remember Pixar’s 2007 animated movie?). Lamb Rack served with pistachio crust, château glaze reduction, polenta cake and seasonal vegetables. The lamb was cooked just the way I like it. Look at the beautiful pink colour! The nuts lent an earthy flavour and a difference in texture. I used the polenta cake to wipe up any remnants of the sweet glaze. Red wine to go with the lamb, white wine to go with the fish (not part of the package though). A candle with the dessert for the birthday girl. Dessert – Chef Special Temptation Platter (shared by 2 pax and trust me it was enough). A pudding, fruit tart and Pietro’s must try tiramisu! The chef came up to meet us after dinner and shared his background (and some stories) and the inspiration behind the menu. A nice hot latte to end the meal. Made with Rubra coffee which is a bright and bold coffee with excellent nutty and bitter chocolate characteristics. . The menu above which consisted of the Amuse Bouche, Appetizer, Entree, Sorbet, Main Course and Dessert for 2 pax cost RM380++ The menu which is suitable for couples looking for a cosy restaurant to have a good intimate dinner and you can top it up with wines/ drinks that suit your fancy. Pietro’s couple menu changes according to the available ingredients so do call a week or so in advance and speak to them regarding a menu. Also don’t forget to inform them if there are any food that you don’t eat (eg. beef, lamb, nuts, etc. etc.) so that they will not include it in the package. Also don’t forget to tell them that you want the private room!   Pietro Ristorante Italiano is located at Ground Floor Bangunan ECM Libra 8, Jalan Damansara Endah, Taman Damansara Endah, 50490 Kuala Lumpur   Operating Hours: Lunch: 11.00am – 3.00pm Dinner: 6.00pm – 11.00pm   For info or reservations call 03-2093 6433 Find them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pietro-Ristorante-Italiano/234028306654577 or visit their website at http://www.pietro.com.my/   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/01/25/versace-menswear-fall-winter-2016-accessories-collection/

Versace Menswear Fall Winter 2016 – Accessories Collection

[Luxury Fashion]   The Versace accessories collection was also revealed at the Versace Menswear Fall Winter 2016 collection (which you can read here – https://timchew.net/2017/01/24/versace-menswear-fall-winter-2016/),      The Versace boutiques in Malaysia are located at: Lot 2.25 & 3.27, Level 2 & 3, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603 2141 0677   LC-G02, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC Tel: +603 2162 0109   Lot H08, Passenger Level, Satellite Building, KLIA Tel: +603 8776 2269   Images courtesy of Versace Malaysia. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/10/07/editors-note-october-2019/

Editor’s Note – October 2019

[Editor’s Note] Wine Day at Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara   We headed over to Nizza at Sofitel Kuala Lumpur Damansara on 28 September 2019 for their Wine Day which featured various wine importers and distributors with more than 100 different types of wines for sampling and sale, as well as freshly shucked oysters from Poseidon’s Reserve.         Grand Launch of Three Stooges Bar at Jaya One    We recently attended the launch of the new Three Stooges bar (which occupies the lot right opposite Starbucks, which used to be Brussels Beer Cafe) at Jaya One in Petaling Jaya. The launch was in partnership with some of the major alcohol distributors in Malaysia including Heineken Malaysia, Fortier Wines & Spirits, Drinks Connexion, Bacardi Martini, and more. The various distributors set up booths in the courtyard beside Three Stooges and guests got to sample and savour the various brews like Apple Fox cider, as well as liquors like London No.1 gin, Dewars 15 Years, Tomatin, Singleton, Bottega gin, Scallywag whisky, to name a few. It was rather different from the normal bar launches as this had a more festival feel to it, with the variety of drinks available, as well as a live band keeping us entertained. Also, it was very nice to catch up with my friends from the Malaysian alcohol industry. Three Stooges is a live music bar which serves a variety of drinks including draught beers, liquors as well as bar snacks, and a full dinner menu, making it a very viable option for enjoying happy hour drinks with some friends/ colleagues, or even for dinner.      The live band kept guests entertained There were also games on stage where guests could win themselves some prizes    Three Stooges Jaya One is located at: G.011 & G.012, The Square Jaya One, No. 72A, Jalan Universiti, Section 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.    Telephone: 016-636 3833 Website: threestoogesbistro.com.my Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/threestoogesjaya1/ Photo Credits: Three Stooges Jaya One and author’s own    Thanks for having us over! . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2020/01/20/valentines-day-2020-dinners-in-kuala-lumpur-and-petaling-jaya-selangor/

Valentine’s Day 2020 Dinners in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya, Selangor

[Special Feature] My annual Valentine’s Day dining feature is back and includes some of the top romantic restaurants in Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, and beyond, featuring their Valentine’s Day 2020 romantic dinners and set menus: 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   If you’re looking for Valentine’s Day 2020 staycations, spa packages, and dining promotions at the following hotels, head over to https://timchew.net/2020/02/03/valentines-day-2020-kuala-lumpur-and-selangor-dinners-set-menus-romantic-restaurants-promotions/ 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 DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur Hilton Petaling Jaya DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru Hilton Kuching DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang   Looking for flowers to present to your partner on Valentine’s Day? Check out the selection of beautiful bouquets by Beautifleurs Florist (https://www.facebook.com/beautifleurs/) that’s sure to captivate and capture your partner’s heart 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       LUXE (> RM500) Babe by Jeff Ramsay Babe by Jeff Ramsay is located at Work @ Clearwater, 11th Floor, Changkat Semantan, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2095 8599 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/babegastro/     Enfin by James Won Enfin by James Won is located at Lot 2-05, Level 2, Menara Hap Seng 1, Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 010-288 7920 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enfinbyjameswon/     Troika Sky Dining Cantaloupe at Troika Sky Dining Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cantaloupeattroikaskydining/ Strato at Troika Sky Dining Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StratoAtTroikaSkyDining/ Fuego at Troika Sky Dining Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FUEGOatTroikaSkyDining/   Troika Sky Dining is located at Level 23a, Tower B, The Troika, 19 Persiaran KLCC, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2162 0886 Website: http://www.troikaskydining.com     Marini’s on 57 Marini’s on 57 is located at Level 57, Menara 3, Petronas KLCC, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2386 6030 Website: https://marinis57.com/     Marble 8 on 56 Marble 8 is located at Level 56, Menara 3 PETRONAS, Persiaran KLCC, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2386 6030 Website: https://www.marble-8.com/     Cloud Nine (Pavilion Elite) St. Valentine’s Set Dinner 2020 Priced at RM498++ per couple Optional add ons: RM 138++ for MONTES classic Malbec red wine (normal price RM188++) RM 388++ for Moet Chandon Brut (normal price RM618++) AMUSE BOUCHE Atlantic crab claw croquettes Potato nest, mentai mayo STARTER Freshly shucked pacific oyster Arenkha caviar, passion fruit juice, fresh lemon SOUP Collagen chicken & wild mushroom Sous-vide “kampung” chicken egg, white truffle oil, porcini mushrooms & parmesan grissini SORBET Ambarilla sorbet In frozen lime on ice MAINS Masculine “Tongkat Ali” Australian tenderloin “Tongkat Ali” brined Australian grain fed tenderloin, flat-ironed foie gras with chocolate & peanut, buttered green peas, charred cipollini, white truffle mashed potatoes, shaved black truffle, au jus & Feminine “Kacip Fatimah” Black Cod Cabbage wrapped & poached black cod in “Kacip Fatimah” broth, saffron risotto, cured mullet bottarga, seared eryngii mushroom, salmon roe DESSERT Symphony of chocolate This slideshow requires JavaScript. Cloud Nine is located at Level 9, Pavilion Elite, 166, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2110 5799 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cloud9kl/       Geo Wine Nat (Pavilion Elite) St. Valentine’s Set Dinner 2020 Priced at RM498++ per couple Optional add ons: RM 138++ for MONTES classic Malbec red wine (normal price RM188++) RM 388++ for Moet Chandon Brut (normal price RM618++) AMUSE BOUCHE Atlantic crab claw croquettes Potato nest, mentai mayo STARTER Freshly shucked pacific oyster Arenkha caviar, passion fruit juice, fresh lemon SOUP Collagen chicken & wild mushroom Sous-vide “kampung” chicken egg, white truffle oil, porcini mushrooms & parmesan grissini SORBET Ambarilla sorbet In frozen lime on ice MAINS Masculine “Tongkat Ali” Australian tenderloin “Tongkat Ali” brined Australian grain fed tenderloin, flat-ironed foie gras with chocolate & peanut, buttered green peas, charred cipollini, white truffle mashed potatoes, shaved black truffle, au jus & Feminine “Kacip Fatimah” Black Cod Cabbage wrapped & poached black cod in “Kacip Fatimah” broth, saffron risotto, cured mullet bottarga, seared eryngii mushroom, salmon roe DESSERT Symphony of chocolate This slideshow requires JavaScript. Geo Wine Nat is located at Level 9, Pavilion Elite, 166, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 013-874 2399 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geowinenation/         Expressoul GastroBar St. Valentine’s Set Dinner 2020 Priced at RM298++ per couple Optional: Add on Legende Bordeaux (red/ white) for RM99 nett per bottle STARTER Freshly shucked pacific oyster Salmon roe, fresh lemon, red tabasco sauce SOUP Collagen chicken & wild mushroom Poached “kampung” chicken egg, white truffle oil, mixed mushrooms & parmesan grissini SHARING MAINS Masculine “Tongkat Ali” Australian tenderloin “Tongkat Ali” brined Australian grain fed tenderloin, flat-ironed foie gras with chocolate & peanut, grilled vegetables, truffle mashed potatoes & pink peppercorn sauce & Feminine “Kacip Fatimah” octopus paella Poached Spanish octopus on Spanish rice cooked with saffron, cuttlefish sofrito, “Kacip Fatimah” infused broth, peppers & French peas DESSERT Symphony of chocolate cake This slideshow requires JavaScript. Expressoul GastroBar is located at GF, Pearl Suria Gallery Shopping Mall Old Klang Road, 58200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-7972 5709 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/expressoul.my/       Take Eat Easy Modern Bakery & Cafe St. Valentine’s Set Dinner 2020 Priced at RM298++ per couple Optional: Add on Legende Bordeaux (red/ white) for RM99 nett per bottle STARTER Freshly shucked pacific oyster Salmon roe, fresh lemon, red tabasco sauce SOUP Collagen chicken & wild mushroom Poached “kampung” chicken egg, white truffle oil, mixed mushrooms & parmesan grissini SHARING MAINS Masculine “Tongkat Ali” Australian tenderloin “Tongkat Ali” brined Australian grain fed tenderloin, flat-ironed foie gras with chocolate & peanut, grilled vegetables, truffle mashed potatoes & pink peppercorn sauce & Feminine “Kacip Fatimah” octopus paella Poached Spanish octopus on Spanish rice cooked with saffron, cuttlefish sofrito, “Kacip Fatimah” infused broth, peppers & French peas DESSERT Symphony of chocolate cake This slideshow requires JavaScript. Take Eat Easy Modern Bakery & Cafe outlets are located at Wisma Fiamma (No 20 Jalan 7A/62A 52200 Kepong, Kuala Lumpur) & Pearl Shopping Gallery, Old Klang Road, Kuala Lumpur Telephone: 03-6263 3623 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teec.my/      The Geographic Adventure Restaurant & Bar Puchong St. Valentine’s Set Dinner 2020 Priced at RM298++ per couple Optional: Add on Legende Bordeaux (red/ white) for RM99 nett per bottle STARTER Freshly shucked pacific oyster Salmon roe, fresh lemon, red tabasco sauce SOUP Collagen chicken & wild mushroom Poached “kampung” chicken egg, white truffle oil, mixed mushrooms & parmesan grissini SHARING MAINS Masculine “Tongkat Ali” Australian tenderloin “Tongkat Ali” brined Australian grain fed tenderloin, flat-ironed foie gras with chocolate & peanut, grilled vegetables, truffle mashed potatoes & pink peppercorn sauce & Feminine “Kacip Fatimah” octopus paella Poached Spanish octopus on Spanish rice cooked with saffron, cuttlefish sofrito, “Kacip Fatimah” infused broth, peppers & French peas DESSERT Symphony of chocolate cake This slideshow requires JavaScript. The Geographic Adventure Restaurant & Bar Puchong is located at No.1B, Jalan Kenari 7, Bandar Puchong Jaya, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Telephone: 016-269 5088 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/geo.puchong/       MID-RANGE (RM200 – 500) Envi Skydining Valentine’s Dinner Menu Priced at RM288.00++ Per Couple Pre-Meal Starter to Share Assorted Spanish Style Tapas Choice of First Course Fresh Seafood in a Tomato Broth with a touch Of Pernod Or Fresh & Crispy Garden Greens Tossed with Sesame Dressing Choice Of Main Course Chilled Australian Ribeye Drizzled with Garlic Rosemary Butter, Served with Homemade Reduced Port Wine Or Airflown Fresh Atlantic Salmon Served with Honey Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce Dessert Chocolate Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream This slideshow requires JavaScript. Envi Skydining is located at Level 36 (rooftop), Menara TA One, 22, Jalan P Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enviskydining/ Telephone: 019-771 7170 Read more at https://timchew.net/2020/02/02/valentines-day-2020-menu-at-envi-skydining-menara-ta-one-kuala-lumpur/     Tatto   This slideshow requires JavaScript. This slideshow requires JavaScript. Ed – I was incredibly impressed with the quality of the modern Italian food at Tatto! Incredible value for money and in a very romantic setting, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur off Jalan Ampang and near KLCC. Definitely a restaurant to consider if you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day in Kuala Lumpur city centre. Tatto is located at A-G-1 Hampshire Place Office, 157, Hampshire, No 1, Jalan Mayang Sari, Off Jalan Tun Razak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Telephone: 03-2166 5212 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tattokualalumpur/      YU 御 This slideshow requires JavaScript. YU 御 is located at G-243, The Gardens Mall, Mid Valley City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2202 2602 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yubyruyi/ The menu is also available at RUYI & LYN 如意 at 285 Jalan Maarof, Bukit Damansara, Bangsar Shopping Centre (4th floor), 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Telephone: 03-2083 0288 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruyilyn/      Meatology by Chef Yenni Law This slideshow requires JavaScript. Meatology by Chef Yenni Law is located at 16, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 011-1603 3558 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MeatologyKL/     Pietro Ristorante Italiano This slideshow requires JavaScript. Both menus are available from 13 February to 16 February 2020. For bookings or more info, call 03-20936433 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pietroristoranteitaliano/     Signature at The Roof (Bandar Utama) Treat your loved ones to a wonderful buffet dinner from starter, selected main course and special couple’s dessert at the Award Winning Signature at The Roof restaurant on 13th & 14th February 2020. Live Band performance, romantic table decor with free entry to Stratosphere and free lantern will make your Valentine’s dinner at #Signature a perfect night for you and your loved one! The restaurant only has 2 seating slots per day which is at 6.00PM and 9.00PM and seats are limited to first come first served basis. (Ed – Signature at The Roof is a popular Valentine’s Day destination for couples therefore we highly recommend that you place your booking ASAP to avoid disappointment.) This slideshow requires JavaScript. Make your reservation online at https://www.tableapp.com/partner/signature-theroof Signature at The Roof is located at Rooftop, 1 First Avenue Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-8605 3388 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Signature.TheRoof/     Pampas Steakhouse at Old Malaya Ladies get a red rose, compliments of the house, while Shazzy and the band will set the mood for the evening. Pampas Steakhouse at Old Malaya is located at 66-68, Jalan Raja Chulan, 52200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2079 5548 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pampasoldmalaya/     The Fire Grill (TTDI) This slideshow requires JavaScript. The Fire Grill is located at 24, Jalan Datuk Sulaiman, Taman Tun Dr Ismail. 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-7492 2197 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firegrill/      Samba Brazilian Steak House This slideshow requires JavaScript. Samba Brazilian Steak House is a chic and authentic Brazilian Churrascaria right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city. The Valentine’s Package for 2 pax is priced at RM328++ and includes: “The last rose” more then 60 types of spread buffet unlimited 15 types of BBQ meats Two glass of red OR white wine/mocktail (1) special dessert Samba Brazilian Steak House is located at Avenue K, 156, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 03-2711 2911 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sambakualalumpur/     Mamamon Looking for something special to do rather than just dining or movies to celebrate your Valentine’s Day? Mamamon has just the right thing to colour up your date with your loved one! Mamamon will be having a Valentine’s Dinner + Glass Painting Workshop on 14 February 2020 (Friday) priced at RM380nett for 2 persons with two (2) sessions available – 4.00pm or 6.30pm. *Limited seats are available and advanced booking and pre-payment is required. V̳a̳l̳e̳n̳t̳i̳n̳e̳’s̳ D̳i̳n̳n̳e̳r̳ + G̳l̳a̳s̳s̳ P̳a̳i̳n̳t̳i̳n̳g̳ W̳o̳r̳k̳s̳h̳o̳p̳ Painting on a 10 inch tall wine glass, couple may pair up their artwork, comes with a gift box (All material & guidance provided) 3 course dinner meal served after the session with Truffle Mushroom Soup + Seared Duck Breast or Grilled Lamb Rack + Dessert All for RM380nett for 2 persons   10 inch tall wine glass This slideshow requires JavaScript. Mamanon is located at 5-0-2, Jalan 2/109F, Taman Danau Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: 012-6330538 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mamamon-1539181722879614/     Poseidon Reserve This valentine, POSEIDON brings the bounties of the oceans into the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Take your taste buds on an Adventure with us across the sea with Poseidon Reserve’s specially curated Valentines dinner from the 12th to 22nd of February. The dinner starts from 5pm onwards, and will include a choice of appetisers & entrees from Poseidon Reserve’s latest gastronomy breakthroughs. From freshly flown Pacific oysters bathed in a golden raspberry & chilly vinegar to pristine white Scallops glistening in sweet basil pesto. While awaiting the Entrée’s of your choice, between a beautifully seared Yellow fin tuna finished with a dual of wasabi or the pan seared Seabass with asparagus & spiced jalapeno cream. This slideshow requires JavaScript.     For any additional information or reservations, head over to https://www.ironwoods.co/ Poseidon Reserve is located at Level B1, Shoppes at Four Seasons Place, 145 Jalan Ampang, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Telephone: +60 17-252 6206 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/poseidonreserve/     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: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/06/10/guess-summer-2016-mens-collection/

GUESS Summer 2016 Men’s Collection

[Fashion] This season, the GUESS men’s collection blends together a combination of traditional staple pieces with a selection of fashion focused garments including statement denim and bomber jackets with eye-catching embroidery.  Short and long sleeved button-downs in chambray, denim and linen paired with crisp white denim jeans are a go-to ensemble for any summer day.  Light-weight sweaters and tees with black and white stripes and checks are summer essentials that pair nicely with any summer denim styles. More info at http://www.guess.com . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/11/26/truefitt-hill-pandora-and-aloft-live/

Truefitt & Hill, Pandora, and Aloft Live

[Event] I was privileged to be one of the few males invited to the exclusive “Cut and Shave” experience in collaboration with Maxman TV at Truefitt & Hill, Starhill Gallery on 8 November 2013. Max Man TV is a free and 100% Legal digital entertainment platform with a channel catering to the Manly Man featuring programmes that are full of action, drama, competitive contact sports, fast cars, sexy babes, killer tunes, fighting, awesome weaponry, and more great manly stuff. When it comes to grooming, you can’t get more manly than to go to the premier men’s grooming experts in town – Truefitt & Hill which originates from England. Truefitt & Hill, is certified by the Guinness Book of World Records the oldest barbershop in the world, and is also recognised as the finest gentlemen’s hairdresser and perfumer in London. The Kuala Lumpur outlet is the first in South East Asia and provides only the finest in grooming products and services. . The outlet in Starhill Gallery is located close to the corridor to the JW Marriot but can be a little hard to find so do ask the info counter. A wide array of products for real gentleman to look and feel his very best are available for purchase. The main service area. There are also two private rooms where members of the Malaysian and foreign royal families have had their services. TV personality and socialite Raj Aria enjoying his shave Pampering for men! I got myself a “Royal Haircut” which is worth RM95.00 . —Max Man pays to license the rights to show the videos — making it free for you to watch and you can watch as many times as you want, where and when you want it. You only need your existing PC, MAC and mobile device (iPads, iPods, Android devices) to watch video with NO software download required – just go to the website on your computer to watch the videos which are in HD! Where can you watch Max Man TV? Computers: Available on any PC or MAC via http://www.maxman.tv Multi-devices, download the Max Man TV app coming soon for: iOs devices: iPads, iPods, iPhones, Tablets, and Androids Connected TVs: Samsung Smart TVs, and more coming soon. More info on Max Man TV at http://maxman.tv/ . More info Truefitt & Hill at https://www.facebook.com/TruefittandHillMalaysia Truefitt & Hill is located at: Truefitt & Hill, Bangsar Shopping Centre Lot S135, 2nd Floor, Bangsar Shopping Centre 285 Jalan Maarof, Bangsar 59000 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603-2011 4321   Truefitt & Hill, Majestic Hotel Lower Ground, The Smoke House 5 Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin Tel: 603-2785 8000   Truefitt & Hill, Starhill Gallery UG23 Stahill Gallery (JW Marriott Entrance) 183 Jalan Bukit Bintang 55100 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603-2141 0351   Truefitt & Hill Grand Hyatt, Kuala Lumpur Lot G-01- & G-02, Ground Floor, Menara Darussalam 50450 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603-2181 4423 . And here’s a video from Maxman TV that caught my attention (yes if you didn’t know I did work for FHM Malaysia a couple of years ago). . . Pandora’s Christmas Collection 2013 Preview . After the haircut at Truefitt & Hill, I headed next door to the Westin for Pandora’s Christmas collection 2013 preview. The new collection was launched by Dato’ Meer Sadik Habib, Chairman of Pandora Malaysia and Datin Zarida Noordin, Managing Director of Pandora Malaysia, and marked the brand’s 3rd year anniversary of its existence in Malaysia. With the theme “Sparkling Christmas’, the new season collection is a celebration of the beauty of the winter featuring lustrous gold and shining sterling silver embellished with sparkling pave set stones, and the beauty of ice crystal and snowflakes are immortalised in earrings, pendant and charms, embellished with 61 sparkling pave set cubic zirconia. Sparkling pave set stones in dramatic colours add a dose of glamour to the party season, and traditional yuletide symbols – striped candy canes, Christmas bells and woollen mitten charms – are suitable additions to the new collection. Pandora expanded its collection of pave charms following last season’s launch of earring barrels, which allow you to wear your favourite pave set cubic zirconia on sterling silver or 14k gold bracelet charms as earrings. Crafted from sterling silver, dramatic purple cubic zirconia stones are pave set by hand to exacting standards on charms, rings and earrings. Symbolising a flower on the verge of bloom, the elegant cocktail ring’s stunning pod-like centrepiece features 37 glittering purple stones, A ring of undulating waves of sterling silver is embellishes with 8 clusters of 8 pave set purple cubic zirconia. Elegant pave stud earrings hold 14 pave stones and s stunning silver is decorated with 94 sparkling stones. The new season sterling silver rings feature pave set clusters of either purple cubic zirconia or black crystal stones. The pod-like centrepiece of each ring embellished with 37 glittering hand set stones. Pandora’s new season pave jewellery is also offered in dramatic black. The collection starts from RM100.00 onwards with 50 new collections to choose from available from 4th November 2013 onwards. There’s also a special promotion where you can get a free limited edition of Pandora white porcelain Santa Claus with gold painting when you spend RM599.00 and above from 12 November till 31 December 2013. . The event was hosted by the delicious Nadia Heng Local celebrities Sazzy Falak, Tasha Sheila, Lynn Lim and Nadia Heng showcased the new collection while local designer Aniq Safuan Professional Creation provided the evening wear collection worn by the celebrities. Popular model Ancy Look Lynn Lim was one of the celebrities showcasing the latest collection . PANDORA boutiques are located at Bangsar Village II, Empire Shopping Gallery, Subang, 1 Mont’ Kiara, Mid Valley Megamall, Tropicana City Mall, Gurney Plaza, Penang, Setia City Mall, Shah Alam, the Paradigm Mall, Kelana Jaya, Alamanda Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and boutique kiosks at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Suria KLCC, Tangs 1 Utama, and Pandora jewellery counters at the Ampang Point Habib showroom. PANDORA’s East Malaysia boutiques are located at the Spring Shopping Center, Sarawak and Suria Sabah. More info at http://www.pandora.net/en-my/ . . “Live at Aloft Hotels” in Collaboration with MTV Asia . After the Pandora fashion show it was over to Aloft KL Sentral for the “Live at Aloft Hotels” launch in collaboration with MTV Asia. The event featured the launch of the online platform – http://www.mtvasia.com/aloftlive which helps to promote local up-and-coming music talents who will perform at the “Live at Aloft Hotels” showcases at Aloft Hotels’ W XYZ Bars across Malaysia, China, India, and Thailand. Besides providing live entertainment for millenial travelers in the hotel, the platform allows users to connect with like-minded individuals in a fun-loving music space, discover local music and talents through write-ups about the events as well as select performers’ interviews. The site will also feature a image and video gallery of past event, bios of artistes, an events calendar, and a platform for travelers to share their videos, and interact via social media. . Female duo “The Light Fantastic” gave a good performance singing covers of many hits MTV VJ Hanli (L) with MHB’s Kelly Siew (R) I think MTV VJ Hanli has a lovely smile! . More info at http://www.mtvasia.com/aloftlive Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/04/02/panasonic-viera-smart-tv-launch-2013/

Panasonic VIERA Smart TV Launch 2013

[ADV] Smart TVs and New Cool Gadgets Now I always like the first few months of the year because all the tech companies start having their conventions and launching their new products so for once I jumped out of bed early to attend the Panasonic Smart VIERA TV launch in conjunction with their sales convention at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre on Wednesday 27 March 2013. . A TV to suit each home – the new Panasonic Smart VIERA TVs are launched! My partner in crime for the day was MHB’s Esther Ng pictured here with some of the new Panasonic VIERA Smart Plasma TVs And here’s Esther with the Panasonic Smart VIERA LED TVs Now there are two (2) different types of TVs in the Panasonic Smart VIERA range – Plasma and LED. Both have some similar features and both have their own strengths. For 2013, the Smart VIERA series of TVs was developed based on five pillars of evolution, namely easy operation, networking, better picture quality, eco-friendly (energy saving), and an updated modern design. The key concept for this new line-up is called “Smart VIERA Made Easy” which emphasizes on smart technology made easy for the regular consumer and not just techies. While ensuring that the smart technology is easy to operate, the new range of Smart VIERA TVs can also be personalized to meet the individual’s needs thereby creating better user experience. Now here are some features common to both the plasma and LED ranges: . My Home Screen Now this screen is unique to different users. Yes you heard me correctly. It uses facial recognition to determine who is using the TV then loads that user’s home screen. Browse the web, watch YouTube, play Facebook and even leave messages for other users using this screen. Of course to use all this you’ll need to have a broadband connection but nowadays almost everyone is connected so this shouldn’t really be an issue. . Voice Interaction Voice control your TV by simply saying a key word (like “home screen” or “internet”) into the Touch Pad Controller or smartphone, and the TV goes to the menu you asked for. If you’re doing a Google search just speak into the controller or phone again and the search result is displayed on-screen and verbally read out. A very cool feature especially if you’re lazy to type or if you have friends over and want to impress them! BTW to control the VIERA by smartphone you need to download and install the “VIERA remote 2″ app which works on IOS5 and Jellybean. . The TV was displaying what the tablet’s camera was seeing. Snap a pic and the pic appears on the TV screen! Swipe & Share 2.0 After linking your smartphone or tablet device to the TV, you can easily share content with your TV. Heck it will even display the image that your camera sees if you are using the camera app. Ta da! A pic of Esther hehehe! A white board? Nopes…that’s Esther writing on the Panasonic Smart VIERA TV! Now I thought this feature is really really cool and I think a lot of advertising agencies will be happy to have one of these in their office while lifestyle brands will find these useful at events. . Panasonic VIERA Plasma TVs Panasonic’s new Smart VIERA Plasma TV combines smart functions with high picture quality coupled with a functional and beautiful design. Now I’m sure you’re asking – why is Panasonic still using plasma displays? Well there are some very good reasons for that. 3000 Focused Field Drive – Crisp, Clear Moving Pictures When it comes to fast moving pictures nothing beats a plasma. Panasonic’s Smart VIERA plasma TVs feature a combination of original phosphors and drive technologies that enable high motion-image performance. A sub-field drive control with a short light emission of 1/3,000th of second produces crisp, clear moving pictures with minimal afterimages (aka ghosting which is kinda “potong stim” if you’re watching an action movie). Didn’t understand a word above? Hahahaha! What it means is that the TV is great for dynamic sports scenes and breathtaking fast-action shots like watching football or action flicks (Transformers, LOTR, etc. etc.).   Infinite Black – Rendering Better Deep Black Shades The new VIERA boasts improvements to the pre-discharge control, which can cause blocked shadows, and have enabled deeper, jet-black shades. Even in brightly lit living rooms, deep areas and fine textures within dark scenes are rendered with meticulous detail giving you a better picture.     30720 Super Gradations – Smooth, Velvety Gradation Increasing the number of sub-fields has allowed Panasonic to control the emitted light in 30,720 steps for smoother gradation. The light emission of each individual cell is precisely controlled to achieve highly nuanced gradation. From jet black to brilliant white, customers will get rich textures and smooth gradation. This means that you get to enjoy truer colour reproduction as subtle variations of a colour are accurately produced. Ie. Dark grey actually looks like dark grey instead of black, pearl looks like pearl instead of white, etc. etc.   DCI 98% Color Space – Realistic Colors from a Wide Color Gamut The new VIERA range features a dramatic improvement in the colour purity of the red phosphor and this has further expanded the color gamut. It now covers 98% of DCI (Digital Cinema Initiatives) studio standards and 122% of ITU standards. This ensures full reproduction of vivid colors from all sorts of image sources and as a result you the customer get to enjoy more realistic colours closer to the original.   Panasonic’s new VIERA plasma TVs starts from RM2,699.00 for their base 50” model all the way to the top of the line 65”model priced at RM16,999.00. Panasonic VIERA LED TVs Panasonic’s new Smart VIERA LED TVs delivers crisp and clear moving pictures by using improved backlight control and IPS (In-Plane Switching) panel technology. In line with it’s Eco-Nation concept of conserving the environment, the new VIERA LED TVs are among the industry’s top energy-saving displays. The design adopts a narrow bezel form to enhance room interiors and make images appear to “float” in space. Now here are some of the VIERA LED TV features: VIERA Connect – Cloud- Based Internet Services VIERA Connect is an internet service for TVs based on the use of cloud servers. It brings you video-on-demand (VOD), catch-up TV, games, educational content, and lots more, through a wide range of apps. Now you don’t need to have a PC lugged into your TV. . 4200 Backlight Scanning – Smooth Reproduction of Fast Motion A highly precise frame generation and insertion creates smooth flowing images while a fine light-emission control by the 8-Phase Backlight Scanning also minimizes flicker to ensure smooth images without afterimages (ghosting). . Advanced Wide Viewing Angle – Color, Brightness and Contrast By combining the IPS Panel, with its excellent viewing angle characteristics, and a phase filter, beautiful images are reproduced with excellent brightness, color, and contrast even when viewed from an angle so now your old seemingly disinterested aunt who’s sitting in the dining room pretending not to watch American Idol can view it clearly. . Super Clear Resolution – All Image Sources Are Beautifully Expressed A new image processor detects and corrects all kinds of image signals, including those for web pages and standard-definition broadcasts. This results in excellent image quality. High definition (HD) broadcasts are also reproduced with stunning quality, bringing you high-resolution images from all sources. . The panels were so thin that my camera had trouble focusing on one! . Panasonic’s new VIERA LED TVs starts from RM799.00 for the base 24” model while the top of the line 55” model is priced at RM15,999.00. . Point to note: Certain features are only applicable to certain models. Of course the higher end models will have more features so do check with your retailer before purchasing the unit. The Smart VIERA 2013 models will be available nationwide at authorized dealers shops, starting on 18 April 2013 onwards. Apart from the TVs, Panasonic also showcased a wide range of it’s latest products! Take a look. . Now every TV needs a good home theater system to go with it and Panasonic provides just that with DVD/ Blu-ray players and speakers There’s a system to suit your living room or TV room And for relaxing in your room after a long day of work why not hook up your iPod or iPhone or other MP3 player to this set of powerful speakers? In case you were wondering no there are no wires connecting the 2 units. Water heaters LED bulbs Remember my post about the Panasonic LED bulb launch? No? Then read about it here – https://timchew.net/2012/12/08/panasonic-led-bulb-launch-miss-universe-malaysia-2013-pool-party/ . Vacumn cleaners Cordless phones Portable external battery for your mobile phones Electric toothbrushes for you lazy bums Personal and beauty appliances…a girl’s best friend Ceiling fans Alkaline Ionizer Purifiers Toilet seats cum bidet Now these babies reallyhad my attention – new Lumix cameras! The Lumix range comes with a whole range of lens and accessories . So it looks like there’s a Panasonic product for every room of your house and for different types of consumers. More info at http://www.panasonic.com.my/ 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 . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/03/14/travel-news-march-2019/

Travel News – March 2019

[Travel News] “Celebrate Australia” at Mode Kitchen and Bar, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney   Mode Kitchen and Bar in Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, has launched a new dining series that celebrates Australia’s rich and vibrant produce and shines a light on the incredible growers and suppliers who deliver it to our plates. The collaborative series entitled “Celebrate Australia”, was launched on 4 March 2019, with a brand new menu that showcases South Australia’s extraordinary range of food and wine. With its diverse micro-climates, multi-faceted landscape and distinct regions, the picturesque state grows and nurtures some of Australia’s finest citrus fruits and berries, premium sustainable seafood such as Pacific oysters, mussels and hiramasa kingfish, fresh organic vegetables and high-quality meats including salt bush lamb, beef and kangaroos. Celebrating South Australia sees Mode Kitchen & Bar’s Executive Chef Francesco Mannelli champion a number of the region’s wonderful producers including Goolwa Pipico, Clean Seas Seafood, Mayura Station wagyu and Woodside Cheese Wrights. Indeed, it is rather fitting that the Italian-born Mannelli is working with these ingredients, given they were produced in the southern state’s Mediterraneanclimate of warm, dry summers and mild winters. For Mannelli, simplicity is key when working with such incredible produce. He notes that the best way to highlight an ingredient that is already special on its own is to create a dish with a good balance of flavour, a contrast in texture and respecting the produce. Guests dining on the new menu can experience dishes such as sautéed Coorong pipis served with spicy sausages from Calabria, karkalla and grilled focaccia; a grilled hard-to-source cut in the form of a Mayura Station wagyu tri tip MB 9+ with roasted balsamic onions; hiramasa kingfish sashimi with sweet and sour sauce, macadamia and pickled onion; and a South Australian kangaroo loin, crusted with crushed Tasmanian pepper, warrigal greens and beetroot. “We are so fortunate to live in a country that produces such a wonderful variety of beautiful and top-quality ingredients. The producers we have chosen stand out because they are all unique in their way. They’re not just passionate about quality, consistency and production, but more about the love that every producer puts into their job that makes them so special. It’s the same ethos for me in the kitchen – when you do something that comes from your heart it’s always a stand out.” “We chose to start our series off with South Australia, a state that has always honoured tradition but has also become a front runner in food innovation. Every region we choose to work with will teach us something new about our country and we look forward to many more collaborations here at Mode.” The Celebrate Australia series will continue at Mode Kitchen & Bar with further menu takeovers and producer showcases to be announced over the coming months. The Celebrate Australia menu is available for dinner till 24 May 2019. Starters Freshly shucked organic Coffin Bay oysters, finger lime and white soy mignonette Hiramasa kingfish sashimi, sweet and sour sauce, macadamia and pickled onion Grilled calamari salad, sweet corn, lemon, coriander and black olives Sautee Coorong pipis, spicy sausages, karkalla and grilled focaccia Mains Grilled Mayura Station wagyu tri tip MB 9+, roasted balsamic onions Coorong angus t-bone 1 kilogram / 21-day aged “Heritage” rib eye, Richard Gunner selection, 5 weeks dry aged Mayura Station wagyu rib eye 600 grams MB 7, 4 weeks dry aged Cheese Selection of South Australian cheeses from Woodside Cheese Wrights   For more info, head over to https://www.fourseasons.com/sydney/     New Sunday Brunch at Alto Restaurant and Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta The Four Seasons – Baltimore, MD Alto Restaurant & Bar in Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta, which the hotel claims as Jakarta’s finest Italian restaurant, unveils a new concept for its Sunday Brunch with an all-new and enhanced à la carte menu. The new menu features delightful creations such as the super fluffy vanilla pancakes, toast francese, eggs benedict e tartufo and Alto wagyu burger complementing the authentic Italian dishes and gourmet selection of cold cuts and cheeses. “I couldn’t be more thrilled to start the Sunday Brunch again,” says Executive Chef Marco Riva. “After two months of research and carefully developing the new menu, we are ready to serve it to our guests with the promise of an exciting new dining experience that also manages to retain the essence of what has made Alto so popular.” The liquid selection also gets a revamp featuring an exciting new Campari Corner where guest can pick and mix Campari-based cocktails, and all new Wine Trolley with favourites: from bold reds of the Old World to classics from across the New World, Four Seasons has curated an indulgent selection of wines by the glass, to pair with the gastronomical feast. Sunday Brunch is available every Sunday from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm. Guest can choose between indoor seating and dining al fresco at Alto’s terrace. For more info or reservations, call +62-21 2277 1888  or head over to https://www.fourseasons.com/jakarta/dining/restaurants/alto/     The New One-Ninety at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, a Botanical-Inspired Modern Asian Brasserie One-Ninety, the modern Asian brasserie at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, is now open after a botanical transformation, and now serves wholesome Provençal cuisine with an Asian twist. The ambience of the restaurant is an extension of the heritage-botanical inspiration that very recently transformed the Hotel’s rooms and suites. The same tropical influences now effortlessly infuse the menus that feature fresh, seasonal and daily-sourced produce. “The light, natural colours and textures echo our lush surrounds while feature Peranakan tiles celebrate our unique heritage,” says Peter Draminksy, Regional Vice-President and General Manager. “The elevated all-day dining space pairs perfectly with One-Ninety’s exciting menu, designed to introduce new and unique epicurean experiences that delight, furthering our mission to ensure superior dining, exceptional service and, of course, authentic Four Seasons charm.” Chef Kamarl John leads the culinary brigade and was previously from Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square. Most recently he was with Adrift by celebrity chef David Myers in Singapore. Having spent the last year in the city state and around Asia, Chef Kamarl is constantly fascinated by the vibrant food heritage of Asia and even more so with the Lion City, from the nation’s instrumental role as a key entrepôt on the Spice Route in the 17th century which naturally made it a melting-pot of culture and cuisine, even to this day. “My philosophy when it comes to food is to use quality ingredients and let these shine by balancing them with clean fresh flavours. This creates an experience where the guest leaves happy and appreciative of natural, wholesome cuisine that excites and comforts all at once,” shares Chef Kamarl. Showcasing the culinary craftsmanship driving the cuisine at One-Ninety, every meal begins with artisan sourdough with seaweed butter. Sourced from artisanal mills in Hokkaido, Japan, the flour is only produced upon each order. Ground by hand and blended to One-Ninety’s specifications, each loaf is baked fresh daily in the restaurant’s own ovens. Expressing his creative flair, love for Provençal cuisine and the kaleidoscope of Asian flavours, Chef Kamarl’s signatures include the ocean-fresh Seasonal Seafood Tower for Two and chargrilled 1.2 kilogram forty days aged rib chop.   Also not to be missed too are: ·        Iberico pork presa and collar with star anise, pineapple chutney and celeriac purée ·        Snapper bouillabaisse, spicy daikon, lemon grass ·        Steamed Atlantic cod, prawns, clams, with mukrat lime leaves ·        Grilled blue lobster and yuzu kosho butter End your meal with a decadent selection of handmade cakes and desserts by pâtissier Audrey Yee, a Four Seasons veteran and graduate of the renowned Le Cordon Bleu School in London.   Blackboard Specials Featuring special, seasonal produce available in limited quantities, the Blackboard Specials are sourced by Chef Kamarl to further enhance the dining experience. From rare aged wagyu, wild seabass and sea urchins to white asparagus and winter truffles, fastest reservations for these are a must.   Beverage Program Begin with an apéritif then heighten the dining pleasure with specially selected red and white pours that pair excellently with the menus. End off with a choice or two of digestifs for the perfect finish. Should guests prefer, an award-winning wine selection of “100 wines under SGD 100” and wine-by-the-glass is also available for a wider selection spanning 12 countries, vintage ports and rare varietals and growths too.   Semi-Buffet Lunch A hearty epicurean spread including a buffet of delectable appetisers, premium imported cheeses, and decadent desserts beckon, and are changed daily according to the freshest and finest seasonal produce of the day. This is complemented with a choice of entrées of Provençal cuisine with an Asian twist. Appetisers include luscious seafood salads with fresh herbs from the Four Seasons organic garden, charcuterie and cold cuts; while sweet delights abound on the dessert spread crafted by Pastry Chef Audrey Yee. ·        Semi-Buffet Lunch – SGD 38 ·        Semi-Buffet Lunch with Entrée – SGD 48   Sunday Semi-Buffet Brunch Seasonal Seafood Tower Provençal cuisine with an Asian twist takes centre stage at One-Ninety, a modern Asian brasserie. Relish in the ocean-fresh signature Seasonal Seafood Tower along with entrées and a buffet of daily-sourced produce including fresh salads, premium cheeses, charcuterie and cold cuts. This is accompanied by a choice of entrée featuring wholesome Provençal cuisine with an Asian twist such as the snapper bouillabaisse with spicy daikon and lemon grass, or miso chicken with sesame togarashi, shishito peppers. Also available are brunch classics with favourites such as organic scrambled eggs topped with cold smoked salmon on toasted brioche, and ricotta cheese pancake with mixed berries and vanilla cream. You can also opt to add on unlimited Ruffino prosecco or Taittinger Brut Champagne to your Sunday Brunch, while the little ones enjoy the dedicated children’s zone where there will be engaging, fun-filled activities. ·        Semi-Buffet Sunday Brunch with Seasonal Seafood Tower and Entrée –  SGD 78 ·        With unlimited Ruffino prosecco – SGD 118 ·        With unlimited Taittinger Brut Champagne – SGD 168 Dining Hours ·        Breakfast – 6:30–10:30 am ·        Lunch (Mondays to Saturdays) – 12:00 noon – 2:30 pm ·        Sunday Brunch – 11:45 am – 3:00 pm ·        Dinner – 6:30–10:00 pm For reservations, call One-Ninety at (65) 6831 7250 or email one-ninety.sin@fourseasons.com For more info, head over to https://www.fourseasons.com/singapore/   Photo credits: Four Seasons Hotels International. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2010/12/03/kl-international-motorshow-2010-media-preview-021210/

KL International Motor Show 2010 – Media Preview 021210

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https://timchew.net/2021/12/17/mercedes-benz-malaysia-debuts-the-mercedes-benz-s-580-e/

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Debuts the Mercedes-Benz S 580 e

[Automotive News] Mercedes-Benz Malaysia announced the arrival of its flagship vehicle, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, on 15 December 2021 at a glittering launch in Kuala Lumpur. The S-Class is the centrepiece of the brand, and stands for the fascination of Mercedes-Benz. It follows a long tradition that extends back to the beginnings of the Mercedes brand in the early 20th Century. Well before the official designation S-Class, the models in the executive and luxury class were the mainstay of the Stuttgart-based company’s portfolio and have always stood for luxury, comfort, safety and lifestyle. The continuous ancestry of the S-Class begins with the model 220 (W 187) of 1951. The designation “S-Class” was officially introduced with the 116 series in 1972. Since its market launch, more than 4 million S-Class limousines have been delivered to customers around the world. Locally, Mercedes-Benz has sold over 18,000 S-Class limousines since its first introduction in the late 1970’s. “The S-Class is the world’s best-selling luxury limousine and we are also pleased that the new S 580 e will be a locally-assembled variant as its predecessor. This is a testament of our commitment to reinforce our local commitment to expand our local foothold in the country. The vehicle underpins our claim to produce the best automobile in the world. This is where covetable luxury meets the greatest possible safety and highest level of comfort.”Michael Jopp, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Michael Jopp, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia The designers of the S-Class created a luxurious ambience with lounge character marked by elegance, high quality and lightness. The dashboard with its new architecture, modern surface design and ergonomic display arrangement is a particular highlight. The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class has become more intelligent in many areas. Digital innovations such as in the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) are joined by innovations that increase driving enjoyment while making driving even safer. Following systematic development, the driving assistance systems are a further step towards autonomous driving. Thanks to improved environmental sensors, for example, the parking systems give the driver even better support when manoeuvring at low speed. The integration into MBUX means that the level of visualization has now entered a whole new dimension. MBUX: a new dimension in personalization and interaction The S-Class combines artificial intelligence with the experience gained from 135 years of automobile engineering. The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is a game-changing innovation for the brand, and the second generation of this learn-capable system now débuts in the new S-Class. The vehicle interior is even more digital and intelligent, as both the hardware and software have made advances: brilliant displays on up to five large screens, in part with OLED technology, make the control of vehicle and comfort functions even easier. The system now features fingerprint scanner just below the central display. When you touch the colour-illuminated button, the system unlocks access. This is secure and additionally more straightforward than entering a PIN. The possibilities for personalization and intuitive operation are more extensive. This certainly applies in the rear, but also to the driver: For example, the new 3D driver display allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time. A real three-dimensional effect is achieved without having to wear 3D glasses. Also available is the MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation which connects the virtual world with the real world. The technology incorporates graphical navigation instructions and traffic information into live images to ensure drivers will reach safely and stress-free. The voice assistant “Hey Mercedes” is constantly learning, by activation of online services in the Mercedes me App. Moreover, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword “Hey Mercedes”. These include accepting a telephone call. “Hey Mercedes” now also explains vehicle functions and answers general knowledge questions. In the S-Class the voice assistant can also be controlled from the rear. Using cameras in the overhead control panel and learning algorithms, MBUX Interior Assist recognizes and anticipates the wishes and intentions of the occupants. It does this by interpreting head direction, hand movements and body language, and responds with corresponding vehicle functions. As well as enhancing operating convenience, MBUX Interior Assist improves safety. Even before the journey begins, it notifies the driver if the camera has detected a child seat on the front passenger seat but seat belt is not fastened, for example. The S-Class has always been a place for comfortable travel and relaxed working. With the new generation, the interior has fully evolved into a “third place”, a refuge between the home and workplace. The desired harmony between digital and analogue luxury resulted in a revolutionary interior design, including associations with interior architecture and yacht design elements. The sculptured look of the dashboard, centre console and armrests appears to float above an expansive interior landscape. The systematic reduction in the number of controls underscores the minimalist appearance of the interior. A fine divide between the upper section of the dashboard and the large trim element structures the area and creates horizontal breadth. Alongside five screens, the highlights include the large areas of trim in the dashboard and in the rear. These flow around the passengers and are a systematic further development of the wrap-around effect. The Anthracite open-pore poplar wood trip lends the interior an individual look. It blends harmoniously while creating exciting contrast. New design elements include the flat, four-square centre vents with horizontal nacelles. Two slim, vertical side vents on each side round off the ends of the dashboard. The driver display and media display offer a comprehensive aesthetic experience. The appearance of the screens can be individualised with a choice of four display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Exclusive, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service) Also featured in the new S-class is the class-leading Burmester® 3D surround sound system. The high-quality speakers achieve impressive surround sound and can specifically optimised for the front and rear seats to intensify the listening experience. The unmistakable Burmester® speaker covers also enhance the interior visually. The seats are inviting, with a flowing, three-dimensional layer design theme that gives an impression of lightness with its nappa leather upholstery. Multiple motors in the front seats make for comfortable seating – that indicates the complexity of the technology installed in the seats. One new feature is the heat-able additional cushion for the head restraint, which is available for the two electrically adjustable rear seats. The adjustment range and angle of the front passenger seat in the chauffeur configuration and the reclining seat behind it have been improved as well. In the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz comes another big step closer to its vision of accident-free driving. The driver is supported by numerous new or extended driving assistance systems. He/she thereby has a reduced workload in day-to-day situations, and is able to drive comfortably and safely. When danger threatens, the assistance systems are able to respond to impending collisions as the situation demands. The operating principle of the systems is made visible by a new display concept in the driver display. Thanks to improved environmental sensors, the parking systems give the driver even better support when maneuvering at low speed. Operation is faster and more intuitive thanks to integration into MBUX. Emergency braking functions serve to protect other road users, too. PRE-SAFE® can prepare the occupants for a side-on collision and reduce the risk of injury. Like a bodyguard, it pushes the driver or front passenger away from the danger zone towards the inside. The impulse is created by the movement of the seat side bolsters in the front backrests. Beneath the upholstery there is a balloon which is activated pyrotechnically – similar to an airbag. In the event of an imminent side collision being detected, a gas generator fills the balloon in an extremely short time. As a result the seat side bolster is drawn inwards and transfers the momentum on the occupants towards the middle of the vehicle. A greater distance is therefore created to the side between the driver or front passenger and the door or trim parts. At the same time the impulse moderately accelerates the occupant’s forwards. This therefore reduces the difference in speed between the other party impacting the side and the occupant: possible contact with the door trim is able to occur later and can be lessened. As part of this, PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side works in conjunction with the other restraint systems such as the seat belts. This also applies to the side impact airbags and window airbags which are deployed in accidents of greater severity. The new S-Class also features the world’s first rear airbags, which are integrated into the backrests of the front seats and deploy in a severe front impact. They deploy gently and protect strapped-in outer rear seat passengers against contact with the front seats. The loads on the head and neck can thus be reduced significantly. Intelligent body shell design and innovations in restraint systems provide passive safety. The new aluminum hybrid body shell with an aluminum content exceeding 50 percent meets numerous requirements: A high level of crash safety, lower weight and a highly rigid body shell ensure outstanding handling characteristics accompanied by excellent noise and vibration comfort. With a short front overhang, a long wheelbase and a balanced rear overhang, the S-Class is designed as a classical saloon with perfect proportions. The wide track and flush-mounted wheels with modern designs give the vehicle a muscular look. The so-called character lines have been greatly reduced along the sides. Cleverly contoured surfaces with a sculptured look create special light effects. The front section impresses with its high-status radiator grille. The headlamps characterize the front aspect of the car. The dynamic appearance of the car is continued at the rear with precisely designed, highly detailed interior features and certain animated functions, the rear lights contribute to the impression of high quality. In each headlamp, DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle. This allows highly precise light distribution. It makes Highbeam Assist over 100 times more precise then 84-pixel light when excluding oncoming traffic or road signs from the light beam. Light/shadow graduations and the light distribution of all the other adaptive light functions are also realised with considerably more precision, optimising illumination by e.g. fog light, motorway light or city light. Thanks to LED technology, the new S-Class has also taken a leap forward in its interior lighting: Mercedes-Benz has now realised interactive interior lighting for the first time. The active ambient lighting supplements ambient lighting with an additional layer of light. It is integrated into the driving assistance systems, and is able to reinforce alerts visually. This also makes corresponding feedback possible for the comfort systems. This applies to the climate control system or the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant. With a Cd figure from 0.22 the S-Class is one of the world’s most aerodynamic cars, and especially so in the luxury sedan segment. Although the frontal area (A) of the new S-Class has increased slightly to 2.5 sq. m., the drag coefficient has been reduced even further compared to the preceding model. The product of Cd and A is 0.56 sq. m., which is 200 sq. cm less than for the previous model after its last facelift. Aerodynamic measures affecting the body, underbody and detachable parts allow a good showing in the wind tunnel and in real operation. Extensive airflow simulations were already carried out using high-performance computer clusters during an early development phase. The S-Class has also achieved further improvements in aeroacoustics. The previous generation already excelled with a very high level of interior noise comfort. The new model is even quieter. The high rigidity of the body shell provides the basis for outstanding noise and vibration comfort, and this is enhanced with fine-tuning. For example, the apertures for the cable grommets in the firewall have double seals. To achieve an engine sound that is perceived as refined and unobtrusive in the interior, the firewall insulation has been extended into the side areas of the A-pillars and the floor area. Mercedes-Benz is also using acoustic foam in certain body shell sections for the first time. Owing to road traffic regulations, the availability and functions of these new assistance functions may be restricted on a market-specific basis. With the 3.0 litre inline-6 engine and 9G-Tronic transmission, the vehicle is capable of performing the century sprint in just 5.2 seconds. Additionally, the S 580 e offers an estimated 100km pure electric driving range, courtesy of its hybrid electric motor. More than 98 kg of components made from resource-conserving materials are used in the S-Class. The number of components containing recyclates is now 120 – more than twice as many as in the preceding model. Another 40 kg or so are made from renewable raw materials. The process of environmentally compatible development with specific targets is firmly embedded in the overall development process. Environmental aspects are already taken into account in the conceptual phase. A new, recycled thread is now used for the floor coverings. This thread – brand name ECONYL® – consists of regenerated Nylon. It is manufactured by recovering Nylon waste destined for the landfill, for example old fish nets and fabric remnants from mills and carpets. These are collected and transformed into a new thread having the same properties as nylon from new raw materials. The recycling process used to produce the thread saves CO2 in comparison with new production. It also enables Mercedes-Benz to keep materials in circulation. The new locally-assembled Mercedes-Benz S-Class model specs: ModelS 580 eDisplacement (cc)2,999Rated Output (kW[hp]/rpm)270 [367]/5,500 – 6,100Rated Torque (Nm/rpm)500/1,600 – 4,500Rated Output for Electric Motor110 kWRated Torque for Electric Motor440 NmAcceleration 0-100 km/h (sec)5.2Top speed (km/h)250Kerb weight/payload (kg)2,400/670 The Recommended Retail Price (OTR w/o Insurance) is to be announced soon. Photo credits: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/08/25/the-golden-gala-premiere-of-swan-lake-by-ballet-west-live-in-genting-malaysia/

The Golden Gala Premiere of Swan Lake by Ballet West Live in Genting, Malaysia

[Special Event] Photo by Ryan James Davies   My partner in crime and I headed up to Genting on 23 August 2018 for the Golden Gala Premiere of the much-awaited Swan Lake by Ballet West at the Genting International Showroom, Genting Highlands. The show was staged by The Dance Company in collaboration with Ballet West International Touring Company, and the Golden Gala Premiere, which was an invite only opening night (not open to public), which was graced by DYMM Sultanah Pahang Sultanah Hajjah Kalsom. Swan Lake by Ballet West is Malaysia’ first professional full-UK-cast, full-length ballet performances that foretold the classical tale of Prince Siegfried who, when celebrating his birthday with a royal party, met the beautiful Swan Princess Odette by a lake when hunting; cursed along with other maidens to become swans by the evil sorcerer Von Rothbart with a spell can only be broken by a true love. The premiere saw a total of 33 world-class ballerinas from the UK bringing to life the Tchaikovsky’s iconic and timeless classic. “This production is irreplaceable and it cannot be found with any other Swan Lake production in the world. We are excited and proud that we are able to bring in the first ever full length – full UK cast Swan Lake performance in the world; into Malaysia today! It is our dream to put Malaysian Ballet Industry into the global dance map, and with Swan Lake by Ballet West, I’m happy to say that we are definitely heading into the right direction!”, said Shannon Lee, Director of The Dance Company. We were totally enthralled by the graceful moves and pirouettes executed by the masterful dancers from Ballet West International Touring Company, as led by soloists Jonathan Barton (Prince Siegfried), Natasha Watson (Odette) and Uyu Hiromoto (Odile) together with other ballerinas from the UK. Barton is a Genee medalist coach while Watson is an actress, a budding choreographer, a Genee medallist and the only British dancer to compete at the Prix de Lausanne in 2015 while Hiromoto is a medalist at the South Africa International Ballet Competition, BBC Young Dancer Finalist, Genee Finalist and the recipient of the prestigious Solo Seal Award.       Honestly, I have never watched a ballet performance ever, barring the odd ballet scene in TV shows and movies. I had absolutely no idea what to expect, however I must say that I was pretty transfixed to what was performed on stage, by the dancers accompanied by the classical soundtrack. There is absolutely no dialogue whatsoever, so it’s up to you to translate what you see into the story line. Gillian Barton; Founder and Director of Ballet West International Touring Company  was quoted saying “This is definitely one of the most technically and emotionally challenging ballet performance and we are glad that we did it and we are grateful to be able to get amazing support from Malaysia to kick-start the Asia Tour!”. Choreographed by the top ballet master – Daniel Job, the 150 minutes Swan Lake ballet performance (including an intermission between Act 2 and 3) is divided into four (4) key moments comprised of Act 1: The Birthday Celebration, Act 2: Odette’s Story, Act 3: The Matchmaking Party and Act 4: Forgiveness. The first public show is on 24 August 2018, at 8.00pm at the Genting International Showroom, followed by shows on 25th – 26th August and 31st August – 2nd September 2018. Ticket prices start from PS1 – RM988, PS2 – RM788, PS3 – RM588 and PS4 – RM388, excluding ticket processing fees of RM3.80 and are available for purchase at http://www.rwgenting.com/entertainment/shows/Swan-Lake/. For ballet students, there is an exclusive Ballet West International Masterclass, conducted by Martin Fenton – a versatile dancer from many disciplines that range from contemporary, ballet and jazz. Fenton, together with ballet mistress Sonia Fajardo, will be at hand to tutor aspiring ballerina longing to turn this art into a lifelong vocation – with helpful tips and showcase to improve your work. Priced at RM585 per masterclass, the masterclasses are now only available on 24th and 30th August at Arena of Stars, Genting.   Photo by Ryan James Davies Photo by Ryan James Davies Photo by Ryan James Davies Photo by Ryan James Davies This slideshow requires JavaScript. Photos (above) by Ryan James Davies.       Thanks for having us! Photo credits: Ryan James Davies for RW Genting/ Milestone Production, and author’s own using the Huawei Mate 10 Pro       The new Volvo S90 at the Grand Ion Delemen Hotel, Genting Highlands   As the gala premiere was at night and I didn’t fancy driving down back to Kuala Lumpur from Genting (which can be somewhat dangerous if there’s heavy mist/ fog), we stayed over at the Grand Ion Delemen which graciously hosted us for a short staycation. The hotel is located about 1+km from the RW Genting hotel (at the peak), however the drive takes about 10 minutes from the peak. The drive was made more enjoyable with the Volvo S90 which got us there in luxury, comfort and style! The nice folks at Volvo Car Malaysia passed me their S90 T8 Twin Engine Inscription Plus for a couple of days and I took the opportunity to test it up the windy roads up to Genting Highlands. Produced in Volvo Cars’ Shah Alam facility, the S90 T8 Twin Engine comes with the Inscription trim level, the most luxurious trim level available for Malaysia, adding a real luxury and premium feel to the car. The S90 T8 Twin Engine Inscription is Volvo’s expression of luxury, performance and class-leading technologies and with a competitive price that Volvo Malaysia claims is the best offer within the Premium D/ E Segment in Malaysia. The S90 T8 Twin Engine was designed to deliver uncompromising power, handling and efficiency without sacrificing the characteristics of a premium sedan. The T8 Twin Engine powertrain outputs a total of 407hp and 640Nm of torque is managed by a silky-smooth 8-speed automatic transmission which results in a 0 to 100 km/h speed of 4.8 seconds. The front wheels powered by the Internal Combustion Engine, while the rear wheels are independently propelled by an electrical motor, with instant power delivery.  I must say that when they say “instant”, it really is instant! I charged the car’s battery before heading up to Genting Highlands so I had the full 640Nm of torque (combined output) at my disposal, and it really provided an exhilarating (I turned on Sport mode!) yet suprisingly luxurious ride! I expected the handling to be just moderate seeing that it’s a large D/ E segment vehicle, however I was pleasantly surprised by the very precise handling, even with the superb torque from the twin engines. In fact, I wanted the journey to take longer as we were enjoying the 19 speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium sound audio system with a 1,400W output! The S90 T8 Twin Engine Inscription Plus is priced at RM348,888 (on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of all applicable taxes).   As we reached at lunchtime, we had lunch at the hotel’s all day dining restaurant – Kembali Kitchen, and tried the Malay, Chinese and Indian fare. The butter chicken is actually made by a chef from Pakistan and was pretty good! The Nasi Lemak in the Clouds (which is the house specialty) and the Prawn Noodles were pretty decent too!   After lunch, we checked into the room to freshen up and rest before dinner and the gala premiere The hotel room was new (the hotel has only been open for about a year) and decently sized and you didn’t have walk through the bathroom to get to your bed. The bathroom had a separate shower area which was separated by a glass partition, and I was happy to see it equipped with a rain shower system!   In the evening, we made our way to Hugo’s in the Sky which is the hotel’s premium dining outlet that offers Mediterranean as well as Western cuisine, and a wonderful view! Get a window table if possible then sit back and admire the clouds passing by Hugo’s in the Sky is an ideal location for a romantic date among the clouds! This slideshow requires JavaScript. Tried the delicious Mediterranean fusion food at Hugo’s in the Sky including the main from the upcoming MIGF 2018 menu by the restaurant which is the Australian Beef Short Ribs with Brie Polenta Croquette and Roasted Cherry Tomato on Vine. The short ribs were slow-cooked for many hours, resulting in a melt in the mouth texture! The flavourful sauce also went very well with the rich and creamy Brie polenta, while the roasted cherry tomatoes balanced out the dish – preventing it from becoming too cloying. For more info on the MIGF 2018 menu at Hugo’s in the Sky, head over to http://www.migf.com/restaurant/hugos-in-the-sky/    Us with Chef Donny Liew Shan Lin of Hugo’s in the Sky       The interesting modern decor that adorns the garden between the pool and dining areas    The Grand Ion Delemen Hotel is located at: Jalan Ion Delemen 1, Genting Highlands 6900, Pahang Darul Makmur, Malaysia.    For more info, head over to https://www.iondelemenhotels.com/     The photos above were shot with the Huawei Mate 10 Pro (except the selfie which was shot with a Huawei P20 Pro). The rear cameras of the Huawei Mate 10 Pro are a 20 MP Monochrome + 12 MP RGB, with f/1.6 aperture, OIS (Optical image stabilisation), BSI CMOS. Dual-LED flash. PDAF + CAF + Laser + Depth auto focus, 2x Hybrid Zoom. There was some minor editing/ post-processing done (brightness and contrast adjustment, cropping) to the photos. To be entirely honest, I’m a very lazy person when it comes to editing/ post-processing photos, and with the Huawei Mate 10 Pro, its artificial intelligence (AI) function automatically identifies the scene and adjusts the camera settings to best suit it. Incredibly convenient and it saves me a huge amount of time and effort! For more info, head over to https://consumer.huawei.com/my/phones/mate10-pro/   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/12/07/editors-note-december-2021/

Editor’s Note – December 2021

[Editor’s Note] Carlsberg Malaysia Debuts the 1664 Rosé in Malaysia A pic with Carlsberg Malaysia’s Sales Director Gary Tan and the pretty brand ambassadors during the “Pause for a Blue Christmas” event back in 2017! I’ve had many fond moments with Kronenbourg 1664 ever since it was launched by Carlsberg Malaysia back in December 2010, which was during my early days with the media (https://timchew.net/2010/12/02/kronenbourg-1664-launch-at-the-hill/). Six months later, Carlsberg Malaysia added another variant with the launch of Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc (which you now know as 1664 Blanc): https://timchew.net/2011/06/30/launch-of-kronenbourg-1664-blanc-290611/ Since then, the brand has organised many memorable events for media and consumers to introduce the French way of life to Malaysians such as: https://timchew.net/2017/12/11/kronenbourg-1664-launches-their-pause-for-a-blue-christmas-2017-campaign/ https://timchew.net/2017/12/28/italian-omakase-at-butler-chef-and-kronenbourg-1664s-pause-for-a-blue-christmas-party/ https://timchew.net/2012/07/21/kronenbourg-1664-blanc-presents-unmask-the-taste-of-french-summer/ https://timchew.net/2014/05/23/kronenbourg-1664-cinq-a-sept-launch/ https://timchew.net/2014/09/10/kronenbourg-1664s-movie-night-at-gsc-signature-the-gardens-mid-valley/ https://timchew.net/2014/12/22/kronenbourg-1664s-taste-the-french-way-of-life-year-end-bash/ https://timchew.net/2016/08/12/pause-for-le-moment-with-kronenbourg-1664/ A whole slew of fashion-related events: https://timchew.net/2013/06/25/launch-of-kronenbourg-1664s-laperitif-fashion-2013/ https://timchew.net/2013/03/28/stylo-kronenbourg-1664-laperitif-fashion/ L’Aperitif Fashion by Kronenbourg 1664 https://timchew.net/2012/06/18/kronenbourg-1664s-laperitif-fashion-rootz-130612/ https://timchew.net/2012/11/27/kronenbourg-1664s-laperitif-fashion/ https://timchew.net/2013/11/12/kronenbourg-1664s-laperitif-fashion-2013-finale/ While being somewhat of a foodie, I really enjoyed the dining events: https://timchew.net/2011/10/20/fine-dine-beer-with-chef-kern-by-kronenbourg-1664/ https://timchew.net/2014/10/30/kronenbourg-1664-taste-the-french-way-of-life-food-marche-at-eau-de-vie-bangsar-south/ https://timchew.net/2014/08/15/kronenbourg-1664s-rooftop-bbq-party-at-stratosphere-the-roof/ https://timchew.net/2012/12/22/kronenbourg-1664-presents-the-french-art-of-culinary-dinner-141212/ Building on the success of the French’s wheat beer in product innovations, Carlsberg Malaysia launches a brand-new variant, 1664 Rosé, a wheat beer with a hint of raspberry, on 3 December 2021 at a launch in Kuala Lumpur.   “1664 Blanc is the leading brand in our premium portfolios and has been growing steadily these years albeit the pandemic. This evening, we are excited to host you over a ‘good taste with a twist’ dinner where you can experience the playfully elegance 1664 Rosé, our French premium wheat beer with a hint of raspberry in a tantalizing delicious pink-amber brew.”Stefano Clini, Carlsberg Malaysia’s Managing Director Malaysia is the second Asian market after China to launch 1664 Rosé. This product launch, amid the challenging backdrop of pandemic, shows the brewer’s commitment in constantly offering quality innovation and its confidence in driving premiumisation. “We are very encouraged by 1664 Blanc’s performance in the trade, especially in the off-trade, and hence made up our mind to sharing more good taste and giving more choices to wheat beer consumers with a new variant – 1664 Rosé,” Clini added. Stefano Clini, Carlsberg Malaysia’s Managing Director Marketing Director Caroline Moreau gave a presentation on the humble beginning of the brand Kronenbourg 1664 born in France in 1664. “Being the only beer in the world named after a date, Kronenbourg 1664 is brewed with the best ingredients like the unique Strisselspalt hops and has created wheat beer range the comes a with playful twist,” said Moreau. “As a French brand and being a French myself, we always try to drink with elegance. Adding 1664 Rosé to the already popular 1664 Blanc, we promise more good taste can be shared with friends, more moments of true conviviality can be shared, and bringing a little ooh-la-la to the everyday life”, she added. Caroline Moreau, Marketing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia From 15 November 2021, consumers can take a virtual trip to France – the home of 1664 Rosé – through an immersive augmented reality brew experience simply by tapping on a link or scanning a QR code on 1664’s social media pages on Instagram and Facebook. After enjoying the virtual introduction and interactive tasting experience of 1664’s newest brew, users can purchase the product directly from e-commerce partners at an introductory price. The virtual experience also comes with a special photo filter for users to attempt their best 1664 Rosé selfie, share it through social media, and stand to win a grand prize trip for two to Paris which includes a complimentary stay in a Parisian hotel, in addition to 60 weekly prizes of 1664 Rosé samples to share good taste during this festive season. Consumers can also enjoy numerous promotions from now until 31 December 2021, with introductory prices at selected supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and e-commerce sites. At selected bars, restaurants and bistros, any purchase of five bottles, three full pints or 6 half-pints of 1664 Blanc will entitle consumers to one free bottle of 1664 Rosé during the campaign period. 1664 Rosé comes in 320ml cans and 325ml bottles and is now available nationwide. . Photo credits: Carlsberg Malaysia On a separate note, 2021 has been a very challenging year due to the multiple and prolonged lockdowns in Malaysia which affected many businesses, especially the micro, small and medium enterprise category, as well as the lives and livelihoods of many citizens. This is why proper and competent governance is absolutely crucial for the wellbeing of a nation. Let’s hope that 2022 will be a much better year for everyone. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for being a reader of my site. Here’s wishing you a Happy New Year 2022 in advance! Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/03/28/stylo-asia-fashion-week-6-march-2016/

STYLO Asia Fashion Week – 6 March 2016

[Fashion]   The Mercedes-Benz STYLO AsiaFashionFestival 2016 (MBSTYLOAFF 2016) culminated on 6 March 2016 with a colourful showcase by some of Asia’s leading fashion designers themed “Sin-derella” and friends followed by an awards presentation to honour the best in the fashion industry. The event kicked off with the opening speech by Mark Raine, Vice President of Sales & Marketing Mercedes-Benz, Malaysia. In his speech, Mr. Raine remarked, “Mercedes-Benz is proud to stand hand-in-hand with STYLO throughout this year’s festival as we continue to support the Malaysian and Asian fashion industry and the creative people who make it all happen. 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 has been on display here at Zouk over the past few nights of STYLO”. Datuk Nancy Yeoh, President and CEO of STYLO International said, “Tonight, right here at the fabulous Zouk Kuala Lumpur, we are very proud to put together a showcase of the creative brilliance of fashion designers throughout Asia as well as the industrious creativity and capabilities of Malaysian footwear designers. We are also very excited to be presenting tonight, the Mercedes-Benz STYLO fashion awards in various categories to a very select group of recipients for their performance and contribution to the Asian fashion industry”. “Through STYLO’s partnership with Mercedes-Benz, we hope to encourage and promote more undiscovered Asian fashion talent to the global fashion arena. I would like to thank Mercedes-Benz for their continued belief and support of STYLO, and am proud to share that STYLO’s partnership with Mercedes-Benz this year will not end here, but we will continue throughout this year, culminating our joint efforts in November this year with the Malaysia Fashion Week”, added Yeoh. The Asian designer showcase featured fashion shows by: ·       House of Chimmi Design (Chimmi Choden, Bhutan) ·       ARTINA (Hasianna Lamira Rachel, Indonesia) ·       Keith Kee (Malaysia) ·       Sumate Classic of Models (Sumate Phunkaew, Thailand) ·       Shairose Exclusive Outfits (Shairose, Pakistan) ·       Edric Ong (Malaysia)     This was followed by a creative shoe showcase by the Malaysian Footwear Manufacturers Association (MFMA) as each piece of shoe was displayed by the models on a piece of pillow, culminating with the last model who came out wearing a resplendent shoe table with 17 pieces of shoes on it. Next up was local shoe designer Nelissa Hilman’s turn to wow the crowd with her fabulous shoe designs.     The winners of the Mercedes-Benz STYLO AsiaFashionFestival Awards include: ·       Model of the Year 2016: Male – winner: Shah Efron. Award was presented by Cher Ng, Executive Director, Zouk KL ·       Model of the Year 2016: Female – winner: Gao Min Sun. Award was presented by Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, Group Managing Director, The Star Publications ·       Best Showcase Designer of the Year 2016: winner: Keith Kee. Award was presented by Mr. Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Reigning winner of the 2015 Mercedes Benz STYLO Designer of the Year, Fairus Ramdan presented a tribute the late pop-rock icon, David Bowie with a showcase complete with a flash mob, and a fashion show with models in the David Bowie look as they sashayed away to his most popular hit song “Let’s Dance”. The last award of the evening was the MBSTYLOAFF Global Fashion Influencer Asia 2016 Award which was presented to a fashion icon who, through his or her involvement in fashion has helped put Malaysia on the international fashion map.  The winner, Edric Ong was presented with his award by Datuk Prof (Dr) Jimmy Choo OBE (Honorary Advisor of STYLO AFF) together with Dr. Claus Weidner, President and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.   Angeline and Nicole with Jimmy Choo The gorgeous Hannah Tan and partner with Soren Ravn and Lavinne Yap Zoe with Jessy Phang     Partners and sponsors of MBSTYLOAFF 2016 include Mercedes-Benz, 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: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Mercedes-Benz-STYLO-Asia-Fashion-Week-594227157282460/ Website: http://mbstyloafw.com/   Photo credits: STYLO and author’s own   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/09/03/lenovo-aio-n300-c470-and-y-z-flex-series-laptops-launch/

Lenovo AIO N300, C470 and Y, Z & Flex Series Laptops Launch

[Tech & Gadgets]   Headed over to Marmalade in Bangsar Village, Kuala Lumpur on 28 August for the launch of Lenovo’s five (5) new models including their all-in-ones (AIO) desktop computers, and laptops which include the Lenovo Y50-70, Z50-70, and Flex 2 (14 and 15 inch). The new line-up features high-definition displays and versatility, as the latest models have specs which balance the essentials of entertainment and affordability while offering an enhanced visual and audio experience. We were especially wowed by the new Y50-70 which is really a gaming beast equipped with ultra-sleek and cool looks and premium JBL speakers! Lenovo’s new range of laptops are powered by Intel’s powerful 4th generation Core processors! The stand feature is very useful especially when watching movies “Our latest range of Lenovo devices provides our users with an incredible combination of performance, entertainment and value to help them get the most from their PC,” said Khoo Hung Chuan, Country General Manager, Lenovo Malaysia. “Today we offer devices with different proof-points ranging from slim and sleek all-in-one desktops to a variety of laptops to ensure that we have something that would cater to each individual’s entertainment and media needs.” Lenovo offers a portfolio of integrated services solutions including warranty extensions, warranty upgrades, premium technical support and accident damage protection for the laptops. All products are currently available in the market. More info at http://www.lenovo.com/my/en/     Lenovo Y50-70 The Y50-70 laptop is a gaming beast encased in a sleek black shell, and equipped with a selection of technologies including an optional backlit keyboard. This model comes with Windows 8.1 PC experience, full HD display with 1920×1080 native resolution, and discrete graphics with the NVIDIA® GTX-860M, and is paired with JBL® speakers and Dolby® Home Theater® v4 making this a dream machine for gamers who like to be mobile. Processor: Intel® Core™ i7-4710HQ (2.5GHz with up to 3.5GHz, 6M Cache) OS: Windows 8.1 Display: 15.6” FHD WLED / 15.6” UHD IPS Storage: Up to 1TB HDD or Up to 1TB Hybrid SSHD Memory: Up to 16GB DDR3L-1600MHz Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX860M DDR5 4G Audio: JBL® speakers with Dolby® Advanced Audio V2 Keyboard: Backlit AccuType® keyboard Size: 387 mm x 263 mm x 23.9 mm Weight: 2.4 kg Battery: 4 cells, Up to 5 hours (depending on configuration and usage) Price: Starts from RM3,999.00   Lenovo Z50-70 The Z50-70 is a highly portable laptop that is equipped with performance in mind, and comes equipped with an optional Full HD 1920×1080 screen, up to 4th Generation Intel® Core™ i7 processor, optional NVIDIA® GeForce® graphics, Windows 8.1, and Dolby Home Theatre v4. Processor: Intel® Core™ i5-4210U (1.7GHz up to 2.7GHz, 3M Cache) Intel® Core™ i7-4510U (2.0GHz up to 3.1GHz, 4M Cache) OS: Windows 8.1 Display: 15.6” FHD TN GL Storage: Up to 1TB HDD Memory: 4GB, up to 16GB DDR3L Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX840M DDR3 4G Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby® Home Theater® Size: 384 mm x 265 mm x 25.0 mm Weight: 2.4 kg Battery: 4 cells, Up to 4 hours Price: Starts from RM2,399.00   Lenovo C470 All-in-One Gone are the days of large PC towers and wires running everywhere as the new 21.5″ Lenovo C470 all-in-one PC changes the ballgame with its space-saving design and affordable pricing. The unit itself is a mere 50mm/2.0″ thin, connects wirelessly to your keyboard and mouse, has a sleek metal stand that allows you to store the keyboard underneath, and has HD power graphics and Dolby® Advanced Audio™ support. Processor: Intel® Core™ i3-4030U (2-core 1.9 GHz) OS: Windows 8.1 Display: 21.5″ Full HD, Multi-Touch (1920 X 1080) Storage: 1TB, 7200 RPM, Up to 2TB HDD storage Memory: 4GB, Up to 8GB DDR3-1600 MHz Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce® 820A 2GB Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby® Advanced Audio™ certification Size: 530 mm x 57 mm x 437 mm Weight: 7.6 kg Price: Starts from RM1,849.00 The Lenovo C470 All-in-One comes with a multi-touch display Want to upgrade your RAM or HDD? Simply pop open the back panel without the need to unscrew any screws!   Lenovo N300 All-in-One The Lenovo N300 is a versatile slate/ PC that combines the simplicity of Android with the power and productivity of a home computer. Users can use a variety of Android apps on the big 19.5″ screen, or move this unit around the home or office easily when required. This Android based AIO is equipped with a HD+ display with 2-point multitouch capability that works just as well as in PC or tablet mode. Processor: Intel® Celeron® J1900 2.0GHz quad-core processor (5732-8435) OS: Android Jelly Bean 4.2 (upgradable to Windows 7) Display: 19.5” LED HD+ 2Point Multi-Touch (1600×900) Storage: 500GB (5400RPM) Memory: 2GB DDR3 Graphics: Intel® HD Graphics Audio: Integrated stereo speakers Battery: 4 cells, Up to 3 hours active usage Size: 489 mm x 323 mm x 33 mm Weight: 4.6 kg Price: RM1,349.00 The Lenovo N300 All-in-One in stand mode The Lenovo N300 All-in-One in slate mode   Lenovo Flex 2 Series   Lenovo’s Flex 2 laptops are available in 14 and 15.6 inch variants and gives users a 300° flexibility with two modes; ‘Laptop’ and ‘Stand’. The new models provide an overall better user experience over their predecessors thanks to several advancements in processing, storage and memory, and are also equipped with an enhanced visual experience offering a full HD screen and discrete graphics models.   Lenovo Flex 2 14” Lenovo Flex 2 14” Processor: Intel® Core™ i3-4030U (1.9GHz, 3M Cache) Intel® Core™ i5-4210U (1.7GHz up to 2.7GHz, 3M Cache) OS: Windows 8.1 Display: 14.0” HD LED Multi-Touch Storage: 500GB, up to 1TB HDD Memory: 4GB, up to 16GB DDR3 Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce® GT840 DDR3 4G Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby® Advanced Audio™ Size: 343 mm x 255 mm x 22.4 mm Weight: 1.89 kg Battery: 4 cells, Up to 6 hours Price: Starts from RM1,699.00   Lenovo Flex 2 15”   Lenovo Flex 2 15” Processor: Intel® Core™ i7-4510U (2.0GHz up to 3.1GHz, 4M Cache) OS: Windows 8.1 Display: 15.6” FHD IPS Multi-Touch Storage: Hybrid 500G SSHD (8GB) Memory: 4GB, up to 16GB DDR3 Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce® GT840 DDR3 4G Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby® Advanced Audio™ Size: 382 mm x 276 mm x 25.8 mm Weight: 2.5 kg Battery: 4 cells, Up to 6 hours Price: Starts from RM2,799.00 Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/11/22/burberry-unveils-its-autumn-winter-2019-pre-collection/

Burberry Unveils its Autumn/ Winter 2019 Pre-Collection

[Fashion News]    “I wanted this collection to be a continuation of the story I began to tell in September with my debut Burberry collection. I’m focusing on establishing our codes through archive prints, house colours, and iconic outerwear, while cementing the new themes I set out last season including the Thomas Burberry Monogram, eveningwear and tailoring.” – Riccardo Tisci, Burberry Chief Creative Officer Pre-Collection, for men and women, continues to explore the themes set out in Riccardo’s debut runway collection for the house and his introduction of a new set of house codes including the Thomas Burberry Monogram. It’s a collection of contrasts and contradictions, which unpacks the wardrobe of the lady and the girl, the gentleman and the boy, as well as an evolving eveningwear offering through a contemporary British lens. Riccardo continues to reference Burberry’s past through archive prints and explores iconic outerwear styles while at the same time heralding the future of the house. Outerwear comes in new proportions and fabrications for both men and women. Details include leather and shearling patchwork, ring-snap fastenings, micro metal rings and studs. There is a focus on trench coats, downs and quilts. The full Pre-Collection will be available from May 2019.      Burberry stores in Malaysia are located at Suria KLCC, The Gardens Mid Valley and in Parkson Pavilion. More info at http://www.burberry.com/ All images courtesy of Burberry. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/03/08/mercedes-maybach-debuts-the-s-580-4matic-and-gls-600-4matic-in-malaysia/

Mercedes-Maybach Debuts the S 580 4MATIC and GLS 600 4MATIC in Malaysia

[Automotive News] Mercedes-Maybach, the ultimate luxury sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz announced the launch of two highly exclusive models in Malaysia on 1 March 2022, adding to the brand’s luxury portfolio, the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, and Mercedes-Maybach GLS. “Mercedes-Maybach is the pinnacle of automotive excellence at Mercedes-Benz. As we celebrate 100 years of Maybach’s unique heritage at the forefront of luxury experience, we remain passionate about driving the brand forward to set the highest standards in style, comfort and outstanding craftsmanship. These new vehicles today are taking the next step towards exclusive luxury, setting the benchmark in this segment.”Sagree Sardien, President & CEO, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia “To present the best of the best”: that was the ambition voiced by Karl Maybach and his father Wilhelm when they debuted the Maybach 22/70 HP W3 a century ago in September 1921 – planting the seed for Mercedes-Maybach to become one of the most unique and exclusive automotive brands today. Daimler acquired Maybach Motorenbau GmbH in 1960 and, in 2002, ushered in a new era with the Maybach 62. The philosophy expressed at Berlin’s motor exhibition that day has remained at the core of the brand ever since. Over the decades, as royalty, world leaders, movie stars and sports champions have travelled in Mercedes-Maybach vehicles, the double M emblem has come to signify the pinnacle of technical innovation and sophisticated luxury.  It is a seal of passion and creative empowerment. Maybach’s words today represent not just the “best” products but the “best” in society. The new Mercedes-Maybach S 580 4MATIC expresses superlative luxury with a number of exclusive features that are particularly suitable for chauffeured driving. The engine is powered by an eight-cylinder petrol engine (M176) with an integrated second-generation starter-alternator (ISG) and 48-volt onboard electrical system. The usage of DYNAMIC SELECT allows the driver to individually modify the characteristics of the powertrain, ESP®, suspension and steering. It shows MAYBACH driving mode which focuses entirely on ride comfort. The word mark MAYBACH is elegantly integrated into the chrome surround of the grille. It features a fixed quarterlight in the C-pillar. The exclusive appearance of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be enhanced by a two-tone paint finish (available as optional equipment, with additional costs) with a dividing line which is applied by hand. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class exclusivity is emphasised by the Maybach brand logo on the C-pillar. As standard, it is also equipped with electrically operated comfort rear doors. In combination with the MBUX Interior Assistant in the rear, the comfort doors can be closed by a gesture of the hand, and stopped by extending an arm. Another new feature is DIGITAL LIGHT technology is now in full series production with the new S-Class generation that allows completely new functions. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has an 18-centimetre longer wheelbase than the long variant of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class which adds even more room for passengers in the rear. The new Mercedes-Maybach offers even more acoustic comfort. With active road noise compensation, the interior of the already very quiet Mercedes-Maybach S-Class becomes even more hushed. The adaptive rear lighting also celebrating its premiere in the Mercedes-Maybach where there is a wide adjustment range between precise working light and relaxing lounge light. The second generation of MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), which made its debut in the S-Class, now makes its debut in the Maybach. The unique feature of MBUX is its networking with a wide range of vehicle systems and sensor data. Up to five display screens are available in part with OLED technology, making it even easier to control vehicle and comfort functions. Included is a 12.8-inch OLED central display as a high-tech control centre. In the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, particular attention has always been paid to safety in the rear section. Passengers in the rear of a saloon car have the benefit of an automatic seat belt extender for the first time. The seat belt extender is integrated into the adjustable backrest of the Executive seat, and therefore always in the right position for the passenger. There are also new and extended assistance systems to help driver in critical driving situations. In such situations, the PRE-SAFE® positioning function moves the rear seats to a more favourable crash position. The active multicontour seats in the Rear Seat Comfort Package provide additional protection in combination with PRE-SAFE®. This fixes the occupants in a better seating position and reduces whiplash. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also introduced a new form of luxury in the SUV segment with the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC. The unique combination of comfort, technology and luxury, it extends the portfolio of the Mercedes-Maybach brand by combining the body design and technical basis of the GLS with the luxury of a top-class saloon car. For the first time, there is a dedicated Maybach drive program that ensures even more comfort in the rear, with the spacious interior – highest grade materials and extremely effective noise insulation. The V8 engine which was developed exclusively for Maybach provides 410 kW (557 hp) and 730 Nm of torque with the combination of 48-volt system EQ boost. The headlamps with MULTIBEAM LED technology as standard present the entire front lighting as if in jewellery showcases. As a special, Maybach-specific feature, two-tone paintwork is planned in eight different, elegant colour combinations. Another eye-catching feature of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS are the electrically extending running boards. They make accessing and leaving the high seating position both convenient and safe, for example – when the doors are opened, the vehicle is lowered slightly, and an illuminated running board quickly and silently emerges on the access or egress side. The interior of the Mercedes-Maybach uses the generous dimensions of the GLS to offer drivers and passengers comfortable seating on all four or five seats. The Executive Rear can be used both as an office and as a private relaxation zone, including the integration of digital devices. In the new Mercedes-Maybach GLS, all seats are electrically adjustable, heated, climatised, and equipped with massage functions as standard. The climatised seats and the massage functions are integrated into the ENERGIZING package’s comfort control. All of the rear seats’ comfort functions can be controlled using the MBUX Command Centre Rear. The Mercedes-Maybach GLS combines the body form and superior, robust technical basis provided by the GLS, with all the technical and material luxury of a top-class saloon car. The Mercedes-Maybach bears the Mercedes star in the traditional way, upright on the bonnet. Where the Mercedes-Benz GLS sports a large star between two horizontal louvres in the radiator grille, the Mercedes-Maybach grille has a fine, elegant line of vertical chrome pinstripes as a motif. They widen into small oar-blades at the upper edge, blending into the chrome frame bearing the lettering MAYBACH at its top centre. The assistance systems fitted as standard in the Mercedes-Maybach GLS can assist the driver in many driving tasks and thus enhance comfort and safety. Some of the systems can increase the effectiveness of the car’s protective functions by initiating in some cases reversible measures prior to an accident. One of the stand-out features of the Executive seat in the Mercedes-Maybach is the cushion airbag in the seat cushion. In the event of a frontal impact, it is designed to stop the rear passenger from sliding under the belt when the seat is in the reclined position. The cushion airbag restrains the passenger as effectively as possible and the seat belt is equipped with inertia-reel tensioners and belt force limiters. . Photo credits: Mercedes-Maybach Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/07/29/vivo-s1-officially-launched-in-malaysia/

Vivo S1 Officially Launched in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets] This slideshow requires JavaScript.   Vivo Malaysia officially launched the Vivo S1 on 24 July 2019 at Bangsar Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur in an event featuring a guest appearance and performance by Vivo Star Priscilla Abby. The first model of the S-Series, with the tagline “Unlock Your Style”, is targeted at young consumers who are energetic, stylish, and always keep up with the latest trends. The Vivo S1 comes with a range of features such as Screen Touch ID, a 32MP AI Selfie Camera, a 4500mAh big battery with Dual-Engine Fast Charging, an AI Triple Rear Camera and a stylish design with a choice of Diamond Black and Skyline Blue colours.   Mike Xu, CEO of Vivo Malaysia said, “As a consumer-based technology brand, Vivo wants to meet the increasingly varied needs of Malaysians. Our internal research shows the segmentation of young consumers who wants a stylish smartphone with features that suit their lifestyle. This is what we want to fulfill through the the S-Series.” Lewis Zeng, CMO Vivo Malaysia, Mike Xu, CEO Vivo Malaysia and Vivo Star Priscilla Abby officially launching the new Vivo S1 (left to right) Raymond Teoh, Vivo Product Specialist presenting an overview of the new Vivo S1   In terms of design, Vivo S1 comes with a Super Amoled Ultra All Screen screen with a screen size of 6.38 inch FHD+, a resolution of 1080 × 2340, an aspect ratio of 19.5:9, and a percentage of screen-to-body ratio of 90%, and is equipped with the Screen Touch ID. On the rear, the Vivo S1 uses a Nano-Ion coating technique to produce colour gradations with a stylish light reflection effect. The Vivo S1 is available in two colour choices, namely Diamond Black and Skyline Blue.   Models parading the new Vivo S1   The Vivo S1 comes with a 32MP AI Selfie Camera that is equipped with intelligent features such as AI Filter, AI Selfie Lighting, AR Stickers and AI Face Beauty, producing clear images with the high-resolution front camera. The Vivo S1 also provides more options for customising photos to be more optimal and expressive. On the rear, the Vivo S1 carries an AI Triple Rear Camera with a 16MP main camera, 8MP AI Super-Wide Angle Camera for wider photos up to 120 degrees, and 2MP Depth Sensor Camera for smooth portrait or bokeh results. There are also smart features such as AI Portrait Framing, Portrait Mode, and Professional Mode.     “The Vivo S1 carries the specifications that young consumers look for in choosing a smartphone, such as stylish design, smart cameras, clear visual experience with a wide screen and reliable performance. There also some popular features on the Vivo S1 such as the Ultra Game Mode and Screen Touch ID to make the mobile experience even more enjoyable,” added Mike Xu. The Vivo S1 comes with 6GB of RAM and 128GB ROM, and has a 4,500mAh battery with Dual-Engine Fast Charging processor. A combination of processors that save power and high battery capacity makes the Vivo S1 able to support activities for a longer time. The Vivo S1 runs on the latest Funtouch OS 9 operating system based on Android 9.0 Pie, with Smart Button and AI Jovi features. The Vivo S1 also comes with Ultra Game Mode with Multi-Turbo and Competition Mode which helps the smartphone’s performance become smoother when playing games and whilst saving battery life.   Mike Xu, CEO of Vivo Malaysia presenting Vivo Star, Priscilla Abby a certificate of appreciation Vivo Star, Priscilla Abby with her Vivo S1 in Skyline Blue colour, shared her experience with the new phone Songstress and VIVO Star, Priscilla Abby entertained us with a couple of her hits   The Vivo S1 is available from 27 July 2019 at all Vivo Concept Stores, collaboration partners, authorised dealers nationwide for RM1,099. Consumers may pay RM50 and get RM100 instant rebate when they pre-order their Vivo S1 at the Vivo Concept Stores. Pre-order buyers will enjoy an exclusive gift of a Vshare K1-Bluetooth Speaker. Online, the Vivo S1 is available for pre-order on Lazada, Shopee, Presto Mall and Vivo Store. Pre-order buyers who purchase online will also receive a mystery gift.     Key Product Specifications: Screen Touch ID Fingerprint Sensor 32MP Selfie Camera 4,500mAh high capacity battery Dual Engine Fast Charging 16MP+8MP+2MP AI Triple Camera 6.38 Full HD+ Super Amoled Ultra All Screen Mediatek Helio P65 Octa Core processor 6GB RAM & 128GB ROM Diamond Black and Skyline Blue Colours Funtouch OS 9 (based on Android 9.0 Pie)   For more information, head over to https://www.vivo.com/my or https://www.facebook.com/VivoMalaysia.     Photo Credits: Vivo Malaysia . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/06/25/mercedes-benz-e-class-2016-launched-in-malaysia/

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2016) Launched in Malaysia

[Automobiles] Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales & Marketing at the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Launch   Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launched the all-new E-Class on 9 June 2016 at the newly opened St. Regis Kuala Lumpur. The new E-Class is claimed by the brand to be the most intelligent sedan in the premium class – the evolution of safety, comfort and performance as well as design and luxury, bearing testimony to the proud heritage of the brand. A brand with a long-standing history and 130! Years of Innovation, Mercedes-Benz also showcase a very special collection of six of their iconic cars; dating all the way back from the 1930s. Renowned vehicles of their time, the Mercedes-Benz 540 K, 320 B Cabriolet, 220 S ‘Ponton’ Cabriolet, 190 SL, 280 SL ‘ Pagoda’ and 280 S Coupé were also displayed as a testament and tribute to Mercedes-Benz’s automobile excellence throughout the years. “The E-Class is the core of the Mercedes-Benz brand and in the past has repeatedly redefined the standards in the premium executive-class segment. The new E-Class is the most intelligent sedan in the premium segment. It now carries this tradition into the future with a wealth of top-class innovations, stylish highlights and an impeccable interior with high-value perception,” says Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.     The new E-Class is sophisticated, confidently stylish yet dynamic, with the elongated bonnet coupled with a coupé-like roof flowing into a broad-shouldered tail end. The powerfully extended vehicle body of the new E-Class is characterised by short overhangs, a long wheelbase, large wheels and taut well-defined flanks. The new E-Class features a front end with a different look for each design and equipment line. The EXCLUSIVE line features the classic Mercedes radiator grille with the star on the bonnet while the AVANTGARDE and AMG Line models are identifiable by the sports radiator grille with a large Mercedes star as its centrepiece.  At the rear end, the single-piece tail lights feature a new a two-bar design and provide an additional highlight reminiscent of stardust, the Milky Way or the glow of a jet engine. Compared with its predecessor, its wheelbase length has grown by 65 millimetres (2939/2874), its overall length by 43 millimetres (4923/4880). The resulting increase in space adds to passengers room in the cabin. The basis for agile handling characteristics is provided by an increased track width (extra 20 millimetres at the front, extra 7 millimetres at the rear). With minor exceptions, the boot capacity has been maintained at the level of the previous model.   AMG   Avantgarde   Exclusive   Comparison of measurements   New E-Class Predecessor Difference Exterior       Vehicle length mm 4923 4880 +43 Vehicle width mm 1852 1854 -2 Vehicle height mm 1468 1471 -3 Wheelbase mm 2939 2874 +65 Track width, front mm 1620 1600 +20 Track width, rear mm 1626 1619 +7         Interior       Kneeroom, rear mm 75 69 +6 Front/rear shoulder room mm 1467/1450 1467/1446 0/+4 Boot capacity l 540 540 –   The interior of the new E-Class includes two next-generation high-resolution displays, each with a wide screen diagonal of 12.3 inches – unique in this segment. As the instrument cluster, this wide-screen cockpit contains a large display with virtual instruments in the direct field of vision of the driver as well as a central display above the centre console. The driver can choose between three different styles to select their preferred look for the wide-screen instrument cluster: “Classic”, “Sport” and “Progressive” and is customisable. The multi-function steering wheel has unique touch control buttons in the control panels on the left and right which controls the instrument cluster and multimedia system with horizontal and vertical swiping movements of the finger like a smartphone interface, allowing the driver to control the entire infotainment system without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. High-quality materials define the interior style and include open-pore woods, wood in a yachting look with flowing lines as a contemporary interpretation of inlaid wood and a novel metal fabric. The material and colour concept feature various shades of brown, including new colour combinations such as nut brown/macchiato and saddle brown/macchiato.   The interior lighting uses energy-saving LED technology. The ambient lighting included in the lines comes with 64 colours, adding touches of light to the trim parts, central display, front stowage facility on the centre console, handle recesses, door pockets, front and rear footwells, overhead console, and tweeters (if the vehicle is equipped with the Burmester® surround sound system).   The new E-Class seats have an ergonomic, sculptural form while the rear bench seat in the new E-Class Saloon comes with the option of a three-piece backrest with a 40% – 20% – 40% split. There is also the option of a holder for a tablet for the rear passengers.   All models available at launch are equipped as standard with the new 9G‑TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission.   The suspension on the new E-Class comes with AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system and lowering to ensure a well-balanced ride comfort on any road surface. The DYNAMIC SELECT switch enables the driver to select from four modes: “Comfort”, “ECO”, “Sport” and “Sport +”, while the additional “Individual” option allows drivers to configure their vehicle to suit their own preferences.   Mercedes-Benz’s new assistance and safety systems include Active Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, and Crosswind Assist, which can assist the driver by substantially reducing the effects of strong crosswinds to prevent the vehicle from drifting too far off track. Furthermore, the range of features in the new E-Class includes: PRE-SAFE® impulse side: An extension of the familiar PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system, the innovative PRE-SAFE® impulse side function is able to move occupants’ as far away as possible from the danger zone and towards the center of the vehicle just before an imminent side impact. Air chambers in the side bolsters of the backrest are inflated in a fraction of a second when a side collision occurs and substantially lessens the force exerted on the occupants. Parking Pilot: The Parking Pilot assists the driver comprehensively in the search for a parking space and can pilot the vehicle into and out of parallel and end-on parking spaces. The reversing camera and the Active Parking Assist PARKTRONIC help to reduce the risk of collisions with obstacles at the front, side and rear of the vehicle. The Rear Cross Traffic Alert can warn the driver or initiate emergency braking automatically if crossing traffic is detected when reversing out of a parking space. The information gathered by the Parking Pilot, the reversing camera and the Active Parking Assist PARKTRONIC is shown attractively on the multimedia system’s display. PRE-SAFE® Sound: this system is based on a human reflex in the inner ear, called the stapedius reflex. PRE-SAFE® Sound emits a short interference signal through the vehicle’s sound system if the risk of a collision is detected. This signal can trigger the natural reflex and thus prepare the occupants’ ears for the expected sound of the accident, in order to reduce the stress on the occupants. High-resolution MULTIBEAM LED headlamps, each with 84 individually controlled high-performance LEDs, automatically illuminate the road with a hitherto unsurpassed, precision-controlled distribution of exceptionally bright light – without dazzling other road users. That’s because this grid allows the light distribution of the left and right headlamps to be controlled separately and adapted to the changing situation on the road quickly and dynamically.    An all-new infotainment generation is making its debut in the E-Class equipped with COMAND Online. It comes with touch-sensitive Touch Controls on the steering wheel and the new, intelligent graphic design of the Multifunction Telephony. It allows mobile phones to be charged through the wireless, inductive charging system works with all mobile devices that either support the Qi standard or can be upgraded to this standard. The charging pad is compatible with mobile phones with a screen diagonal of up to 15.2 cm (6 inches) and has Near Field Communication (NFC) while phone calls can then be made via the Bluetooth® hands-free system.   Fitted as standard, the Mercedes-Benz-developed Frontbass system in the new E‑Class uses the space in the cross-member and side member of the body structure as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers. The Burmester® surround sound system with 13 high-performance speakers in the E300 provide well-balanced and very dynamic music reproduction. The engineers opted for a stiff bodyshell with a far higher proportion of aluminium and ultra-high-strength steel components than its predecessor for low noise and vibration levels, and a high level of crash safety. The front wings, bonnet, boot lid, and large sections of the front and rear ends are made of sheet or cast aluminium, abd tge redyced weight reduces fuel consumption while improving vehicle handling. The new E-Class comes with a range of petrol engines comprise four-cylinder versions with outputs ranging from 135 to 180 kW (183 to 245 hp). All engines for the new E-Class are equipped with the ECO start/stop function.   The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class engine data at a glance: Model E 200 Avantgarde Line E 250 Avantgarde Line E 250 Exclusive Line E 300 AMG Line Number of cyl./ arrangement 4/in-line, 4 valves per cylinder 4/in-line, 4 valves per cylinder 4/in-line, 4 valves per cylinder 4/in-line, 4 valves per cylinder Displacement (cc) 1991 1991 1991 1991 Rated output (kW/hp at rpm) 135/184 at 5,500 155/211 at 5,500 155/211 at 5,500 180/245 at  5,500 Rated torque (Nm at rpm) 300/1200 – 4000 350/1200 – 4000 350/1200 – 4000 370/1200 – 4000 Combined fuel consumption from (l/100 km) 5.9   To be determined To be determined To be determined Combined CO2 emissions from (g/km) 132   To be determined To be determined To be determined Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) 7.7   To be determined To be determined To be determined Top speed (km/h) 240 To be determined To be determined To be determined Price (OTR w/o Insurance) *Price is inclusive of GST. RM395,888 To be announced To be announced To be announced   For more info, head over to http://www.mercedes-benz.com.my/     Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/04/22/jersey-boys-live-at-istana-budaya-kuala-lumpur-2014/

Jersey Boys Live at Istana Budaya, Kuala Lumpur 2014

[Special Music Event]     The four what? Chances are you do know their songs. Just that you don’t know who is the artiste. Well watch this YouTube video below.   And this one too.     Told you! Well I was lucky enough to be invited to watch the multi-award winning musical JERSEY BOYS at the Istana Budaya Auditorium in Kuala Lumpur and the good news is that the show runs from 15 till 27 April 2014. JERSEY BOYS is organised by Milestone Production Sdn Bhd, and depicts the true-life story and the remarkable rise to stardom of one of the most successful bands in American pop music history – Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons – how a group of blue–collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time. Apart from featuring the band’s 60’s American pop worldwide hits, JERSEY BOYS also tells the story of the inspiring journey of The Four Seasons from the mean streets of Newark, New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records globally – all before they were thirty! As the members came from humble beginnings, watch as fame and wealth changes them while they have run ins with loan-sharks and gangsters, and even affairs with women (that’s why guys want to become famous pop/ rock stars and actors – because it’s easy to get any girl you want!). All part of the true story which is told from four (4) different angles – by each of the Jersey Boys.      It was evident that a lot of thought was put into the sets as even a lamppost can appear out of nowhere. The outfits follow the fashion of the 50’s to the 70’s and I must say that the actor who plays Tommy DeVito got his Italian American accent spot on as it sounded so natural. The singing too was very good, and after some research on YouTube I believe this cast in Kuala Lumpur is like their best ensemble of actors. The musical starts off slowly (but look out for Tommy singing “Earth Angel” early on. The show slowly builds up to a crescendo and along the way look out for hits such as Walk Like a Man, Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry and of course the two hits that everyone knows – “Oh What A Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”. Girls will love the slick dance moves of the group while the music is something everyone can appreciate – music from an era before songs were all about violence, materialism and sex.     JERSEY BOYS, winner of 54 major awards including the 2006 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album, 2009 Olivier Award for Best New Musical and winner of the Best Musical Tony Award® on Broadway, in London and Australia is not a tribute band but a full-scale Broadway musical that takes audiences behind the music” to tell the story of the group through each of the four members’ perspectives. The storyline weaves a tale about friendships, hardships, fights and the success resulting from a New Jersey “handshake”. The show opened on Broadway in 2005 and 3000 performances later is STILL running to full houses. JERSEY BOYS is the 14th longest-running show in Broadway history; having surpassed the record previously held by Hello, Dolly!     Here are some interesting facts: The lights 609 Lighting Cues 401 Conventional Lighting Units 96 Source 4 PARCAN lamps on the stadium wall for the concert   The Sound 65 microphones used in the show, both wireless and hard‐wired. The full sound system includes 120 speakers. 75,000 watts of amplification are used to power the used to power the sound system. The costumes 196 total costumes/looks in the show, incl. some vintage suits, ties and dresses. Tommy has 12 costume changes, Nick has 11, Frankie has 15 and Bob has 10. Frankie runs through 1 pair of pants each week, with repairs every other day. (He slides on his knees in the number “Beggin’”.) 9 seconds ‐ Fastest quick change in the show, for Mary Delgado to get out of the car and into her robe for “My Eyes Adored You.” 12 quick changes for Frankie Valli. His shortest quick change is 15 seconds. 5 hours – time spent per week hand‐beading repairs to the “Snowflake” dresses. Originally beaded by machine (cost: $300 per yard). 102 shirts in the show, including reproductions of vintage shirts (patterns are printed on fabric by computer and then made into shirts. Cost: over $200 per yard). 4 heels broken on stage (so far!) 75 costumes/looks for the male swing. 37 costumes/looks for the female swing. 87 shoes used in one performance. 2.4 miles ‐ Distance a dresser will walk/run during a day, including day work, pre‐show call, working the show and post‐show work.       I’m not one who really goes for musicals but Broadway musicals are rather rare in Malaysia so if you have never been to one yet I urge you to go. Widen your horizons a bit and listen to something other than K-pop and Lady Gaga. I for one really enjoyed the songs which although is not from my generation (I wasn’t born until the 80’s) are still classics and part of music history.   TICKET SALES INFORMATION Tickets are now available through all Ticket Charge channels. Prices of tickets range from RM200 – RM680 per ticket. For more information on ticket sales, head over to http://www.ticketcharge.com.my .   SHOW INFORMATION – www.milestone-entertainment.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jerseyboys.malaysia   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/04/01/editors-note-april-2019/

Editor’s Note – April 2019

[Editor’s Note] Gout de France Dinner at 2OX Kuala Lumpur   Gout de France or Good France returned on 21 March 2019 where the world’s biggest event celebrating French gastronomy took place in over 150 countries. Organised on the initiative of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and Alain Ducasse, Good France was first held in 2015, following UNESCO’s decision to put “gastronomic meal of France” on the intangible cultural heritage list. This year, Good France entered the 5th year of the event which saw over 5,000 chefs participate across 5 continents over 4 days of events celebrating responsible cooking. Following on from COP21 and the French National Food Conference, France is at the forefront of global environmental action. The Good France key event showcasing France’s gastronomy will be taking a greener approach in 2019 aimed at better respecting the planet’s resources. On 21 March, chefs from around the world cooked up a French-style dinner, with a focus on more responsible cuisine. In Malaysia, one of the restaurants participating in Gout de France this year was 2OX Kuala Lumpur, and we were blessed to be able to experience this special menu which was priced at RM150++ per person.   2OX is a cosy French bistro located along Jalan Doraisamy in Kuala Lumpur    APPETIZER   Torched Scottish Salmon Trout – Citrus Salt – Fennel & Apple – Brokaw Avocado – Spiced Tomato Jam Truite saumonée écossaise au chalumeau – Sel d’agrumes – Fenouil et pomme – Avocat Brokaw- Confiture de tomates épicées     MAINS (Choice of)   Roasted Wild Red Snapper – Petit Pois Veloutė – Butter Poached Cauliflower Florets – Charred Leek & Pine Nut Vinaigrette Vivaneau rouge sauvage rôti – Petit pois velouté – Fleurons de chou-fleur poché au beurre – Vinaigrette poireaux et pignons de pin     or     Sous Vide Lamb Saddle – Grilled Broccoli Rabe – Truffle Confit Yucon Potatoes – Sauce Bordelaise Selle d’agneau sous vide – Brocoli grillé – Pommes de terre au Yucon Confites – Sauce Bordelaise     CHEESE COURSE   Grilled Brie – Poached Beets – Fresh Yoghurt – Organic Honey – Smoked Sea Salt Brie grillé – Betteraves pochées – Yaourt frais – Miel biologique – Sel de mer fumé     DESSERT   Pear Brulee – Passion Fruit Crémeux –  Earl Grey Gelée – Mascarpone Ice Cream Poire Brûlée – Crémeux au fruit de la passion – Earl Grey Gelée – Crème glacée au mascarpone   As we were also celebrating her birthday, the chef modified her dessert with macaron, Happy Birthday in chocolate, and a candle! Very impressed that they were so accommodating!    2OX is located at: 54, Jalan Doraisamy, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.   Telephone: 03 2692 2233 Website: http://www.two-ox.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2OXKL/       Finca Decero Wine Tasting at Wine Kaki TTDI   Kathy and I recently attended the Finca Decero wine tasting at Wine Kaki in TTDI. Decero, meaning “from scratch”, was born of a bare patch of land and a family´s love affair with wine. Winemaking in Thomas Schmidheiny´s family went back to his grandparents in Switzerland and, just as Napa had inspired his mother, Adda, in the 1970s, so too did Agrelo capture the heart and mind of Thomas, when travelling over the Andes into Argentina, 20 years later. Starting “decero” was exactly how Thomas Schmidheiny dreamt of beginning a world-class vineyard, free from constraint of tradition and full of passion. In Agrelo, which is the home of some of Argentina’s finest red wines, Thomas instinctively knew that he had found the place to continue the family legacy and to handcraft wines whose allure would lie in being true to their origin. The beautiful yet desolate spot Thomas had found was cradled in the heart of Agrelo, in the foothills of the Andes. This land, bare apart from wild shrubs, was to become the Remolinos Vineyard – which was named after its strangest and most special natural attribute, the remolinos, or tiny whirlwinds. These gusts of wind stir up the bare soil into dancing spiral forms which thread their way through the vines, keeping the grapes in perfect condition during the growing season. Situated 3,500 feet (1,050 meters) above sea level, the vineyard is the highest in Agrelo: where the cool night westerly air from the Andes passes over a land that is warm by day. Finca Decero only plants the red varieties perfectly suited to Agrelo, with a winemaking philosophy that required both local knowledge and international expertise, hands-on from start to finish: which the winery calls the “amano” approach.   . .   Finca Decero wines are distributed in Malaysia by Fortier Wines & Spirits. For more info, head over to http://fws.com.my/ . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2022/04/11/travel-news-april-2022/

Travel News – April 2022

[Travel News] Marina Bay Sands to Unveil WAKUDA by Chef Tetsuya Wakuda and 50 Eggs on 17 April 2022 Marina Bay Sands is gearing up for the opening this month of WAKUDA, a game-changing dining concept in the heart of Marina Bay Sands’ hotel lobby by culinary maestro Tetsuya Wakuda and 50 Eggs Hospitality Group. WAKUDA’s exceptional design by award-winning architecture and design firm Rockwell Group embraces Chef Tetsuya’s culinary philosophy and modern take on Japanese classics.  From 17 April 2022, WAKUDA will present an approachable, multi-faceted gastronomic experience, from à la carte and bar dining in elegantly designed communal spaces, to private Omakase in an exclusive enclave, starting with dinner service. Diners can look forward to savouring Chef Tetsuya’s innovative interpretations of Japanese classics in a diverse menu of WAKUDA-style appetisers, sashimi, sushi, tempura, as well as high quality small plates of grilled items, rice bowls and cold soba – all made using the finest seasonal harvest from Australia, Europe, Japan and New Zealand.  Headlined by the celebrity chef and his long-time stalwarts Executive Chef Sufian Zain and Chef de Cuisine Suzuki Masaya, WAKUDA will be Chef Tetsuya’s second restaurant at the integrated resort after his two Michelin-starred Waku Ghin.  “WAKUDA represents an evolution of my culinary work to date. It is a fresh canvas where I can dream up new possibilities to enable diners to journey across time and seasons,” said Chef Tetsuya Wakuda. “From the sourcing of exclusive produce, down to every design element and fine craftsmanship, the level of precision and detail in the cuisine style and presentation is truly remarkable. We envision WAKUDA to be a vibrant and fun dining experience amidst the bustling Marina Bay Sands, and I cannot wait to unveil it to our guests.”  WAKUDA Singapore’s launch will be followed by a Summer 2022 opening of WAKUDA at The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas.  “Partnering with Chef Tetsuya and Marina Bay Sands has resulted in something truly remarkable,” 50 Eggs Founder & CEO, John Kunkel, added. “With the perfect formulation of cuisine, art and culture, WAKUDA Singapore will set a new standard in fine dining. I look forward to introducing our highly anticipated 50 Eggs concept on a global scale.” WAKUDA’s design was inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, celebrating the beauty of craftsmanship and nature, and infused with an element of urban Tokyo’s energy, modernity and spontaneity. Kumiki – a time-honoured wood joinery craft that traces back to the Asuka period (538-710 AD) – is used throughout. The restaurant’s entry features an up-lit Kumiki wood façade, juxtaposed against a massive split-faced natural stone wall. The artistry continues inside the restaurant, from a custom ceiling installation in the Main Dining Room and the suspended lighting fixtures of the Omakase Room to stylish banquette dividers adjacent to the Bar and the framed façade of the open kitchen. Upon entering, guests will be immersed in a glowing, soft-lit Japanese sanctuary, characterised by rich wood tones, rough-faced stones, a neutral tone-on-tone palette, mirrored surfaces and brushed bronze accents. Floor-to-ceiling windows draw the eye to picturesque views of a lush, outdoor garden framed by a dome-shaped Kumiki screen and marked by a Japanese maple tree sitting above tranquil waters. An embodiment of elegance, beauty, and grace, Japanese maple trees symbolise the onset of Autumn, a season of great harvest and abundance.  In the Main Dining Room, Japanese artist Jun Inoue has created an original artwork titled The Ingredients That Arrived. The work is installed on the ceiling, instantly captivating guests with its energy and dynamism. It is an artist’s expression of Chef Tetsuya’s culinary philosophy and the transformation process the ingredients undergo when they are prepared into unique dishes. Infinity mirror panels and LED lights form a vast, immersive canopy reminiscent of a bamboo forest, completing the room’s interior and softly illuminating the artwork above. Inoue is renowned for his unique aesthetic vision which combines the powerful and energetic movements of western street art and hip-hop culture with the contemplative aesthetics and simplicity of Shodō (traditional Japanese calligraphy). His works are an expression of the traditional and the contemporary that make up the artist’s identity.  This balance is well expressed in his original work for the restaurant ceiling titled In His Hands – a mural featuring liberal brush strokes with bold crimson touches. Here, guests can witness the chefs in action over a black and white marble counter parallel to a dynamic feature wall.  The arched backlit main Bar is a glowing focal point that ushers guests into a world of Japanese mixology. Rockwell Group designed a lunette of contemporary ribbed walnut against an illuminated backdrop of gold-leaf-accented wall panels in a nod to the historic use of gold leaf designs in Japanese royal and religious paintings. Traditional sake barrels join the extensive ranks of bottled spirits and liquors on display.  In the Omakase Room, darker tones of natural wood exude elegance over the Chef’s Table where diners are treated to a multi-sensory feast of craftsmanship. Intimate plush banquette seats are framed by embossed metal privacy screens, set against oxidised nickel wall panels featuring iridescent cherry blossom motifs.  Other design elements include rice paper pendant lights inspired by traditional Japanese lanterns. Jun Inoue also designed three Noren (traditional Japanese fabric dividers) based on the three elements of nature – earth, fire, and water – quintessential to cooking.  WAKUDA will open for reservations soon. For more info, head over to Wakuda Singapore | Japanese Restaurant in Singapore | Marina Bay Sands [Updated with photos from the launch] Photo credits: Marina Bay Sands. Photos of Jun Inoue are by Naoto Sakamoto. Photo credits: Respective properties . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2010/08/02/preview-camel-active-autumn-winter-2010-2011-fashion-show/

Camel Active Autumn/ Winter 2010/ 2011 Fashion Show

Kuala Lumpur, 29 July 2010 – Camel Active Malaysia launched it Autumn/ Winter 2010/ 2011 collection with a unique fashion show at Capitol Studios, Sri Damansara. Check out the video. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/04/20/samsung-galaxy-s7-montblanc-covers-and-montblanc-for-bmw-centennial-fountain-pen/

Samsung Galaxy S7 Montblanc Covers and “Montblanc for BMW” Centennial Fountain Pen

[Luxury] “Montblanc for BMW” Centennial Fountain Pen For the past 100 years, BMW has been producing some of the best automobiles in the world, and on the occasion of the brand’s 100th anniversary and the release of the BMW Individual 7 Series THE NEXT 100 YEARS limited edition, luxury maison Montblanc introduces the “Montblanc for BMW” Centennial Fountain Pen, a writing instrument designed to accompany each of the 100 vehicles. This limited edition writing instrument is the second collaboration between two (2) luxury brands who share a passion for ground-breaking technological innovation and elegant design. This latest offering follows the creation of a collection of customized leather goods and writing instruments to coincide with the launch of the BMW 7 Series in 2015. The centennial piston fountain pen is limited to just 100 pieces worldwide, and blends the iconic Montblanc Meisterstück 149 balanced proportions with design details inspired by the elegant and streamlined aesthetics of the new BMW car. Zaim Kamal, Creative Director at Montblanc International, and Karim Habib, Head of BMW Design were inspired by the distinctive pattern used on the BMW Individual fine-grain Merino leather interior of the new car, and together they created the intricate grid of the skeletonized metal cap and barrel. Through the cut-out rhodium-plated grid pattern, the vibrant blue of the transparent precious resin mirrors the unique colour of the car lacquering. In reference to the BMW 7 Series, the Au750 rhodium-plated gold nib is engraved with the BMW “7” pattern. Completing the piece is the iconic Montblanc emblem is made of quartz set in black onyx.     The limited edition writing instrument is accompanied by its own special leather accessory. The blue pen pouch in full-grain calfskin referring to the colour of the car lacquering features a compartment for the fountain pen. The leather is embossed with the skeleton pattern featured on the writing instrument’s design with a Montblanc emblem inside a palladium-plated ring. While BMW has been rethinking the rules of automotive design, Montblanc has been enhancing the writing experience through technological innovations and cutting-edge design, guided by its pioneering spirit since 1906. With this latest collaboration, Montblanc unites its passion for fine craftsmanship, perfect functionality and contemporary design with BMW’s forward-thinking approach to performance and breakthrough innovations. The “Montblanc for BMW” Centennial Fountain Pen accompanies the purchase of the new BMW Individual 7 Series THE NEXT 100 YEARS at BMW dealerships from September 2016.     On 19 April 2016, Montblanc and BMW hosted an exclusive launch event at the BMW Group Classic in Munich for 160 guests to unveil the “Montblanc for BMW” Centennial Fountain Pen. Guests at the very exclusive event included actor Heiner Lauterbach with wife Victoria Lauterbach as well as actress Sunnyi Melles and daughter Leonille Princess zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn. Montblanc and BMW presented the new car and limited writing instrument as guests got the opportunity to walk through the exhibition area and enjoy the Design-Talk between Montblanc Creative Director Zaim Kamal and Karim Habib, Head of BMW Design.   Head of Product Management Automobile und Aftersale of BMW, Hildegard Wortmann & Montblanc International CEO, Jerome Lambert Montblanc Creative Director, Zaim Kamal & Head of BMW Design, Karim Habib Victoria & actor Heiner Lauterbach Princess Leonille & actress Sunnyi Melles   Montblanc Leather Covers for the Samsung Galaxy S7   Montblanc launched a collection of fine leather covers offering stylish protection in conjunction with the launch of the new Samsung Galaxy S7, a partnership with Samsung that combines high performance with classic elegance. The covers are crafted from classic black soft grain leather with its naturally soft touch, and from sophisticated black Saffiano leather, and are suitable for both the Flat and the Edge devices in the Samsung Galaxy S7 lineup, adding a touch of luxury through leather manufacturing excellence to enhance Samsung’s cutting edge technology. The Montblanc covers are available in two versions: a click-on hard case that can be clipped to the back of the device, and a flip cover with business card slots on the inside of the flap. Montblanc also launched a luxury limited edition in genuine lizard in three colours: black, red and green. Each piece expresses Montblanc’s timeless elegance with intricate stitching and the Montblanc emblem.     Montblanc boutiques in Malaysia are located at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and Suria KLCC. For more information, visit http://www.montblanc.com Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/07/02/editors-note-july-2016/

Editor’s Note – July 2016

June was an eating month with lots and lots of buka puasa dinners to attend. Adding to those were a couple of whisky tasting sessions and a Hendrick’s Gin cocktail party! Think I put on a kilo or two…   Global Discovery Day at Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel [Hotel Happenings] Jocelyn and I headed over to Renaissance Kuala Lumpur on 16 June 2016 for their Global Day Of Discovery with the highlight of the night being the unveiling of their newly renovated West Wing rooms. The 5th annual Global Day of Discovery took place simultaneously at nearly 170 Renaissance Hotels around the world. The event in KL featured an unforgettable evening with award-winning mixologist David Han, saxophonist Goh Boon Aik and Malaysia’s very own Charlie Chaplin in R Studio. Mixologist David Han performed a signature bar ritual, and also crafted 3 cocktails for the evening – R Rendezvous, #dayofdiscovery and Global Fashioned. The bar ritual is the signal that the 9-to-5 working day is over and it is time to transition into an incredible evening of discovery and celebrate the #5to9. Award-winning National Global Master Chef Executive Chef Helmut Lamberger and his culinary team served up a delicious selection of signature dishes such as BBQ Peking duck with pancake, flambéed drunken prawns served with superior stock, lobster roll, whole lamb served with percik sauce, chicken tikka with naan and my fav – freshly shucked oysters! Renaissance Hotels believes business travel is always an opportunity to discover, with their philosophy is described as “Business Unusual”, by which every stay is designed to defy the notion of “conventional” business travel by helping guests to uncover local, unexpected experiences such as local music, art and culinary discoveries. We were given a preview of the first batch of completely restyled West Wing guest rooms. The new rooms showcase a fresh and contemporary design – sophisticated, tasteful and sleek, reflecting the key personalities of a Renaissance Discoverer who celebrates all things that contribute to living a life less ordinary. The rooms come in sizes ranging from 40 sqm, and have a neutral colour palette, re-engineered wood flooring, a day bed as an extra bed and the luxurious Marriott’s Plush Bedding with topper and rich linen. Meanwhile, the reconfigured bathroom offers guests greater space and is installed with f0ur (4) bay bathroom fixtures with rain shower. Other facilities include a Samsung 48” full HD Smart TV and seamless Internet connectivity throughout the hotel. For safety purposes, every guest room door is equipped with the high-tech radio frequency IC door lock system with (RFID) and IP camera security system. “The renovation, which is the Hotel’s largest to date, will take place in three phases with the first phase scheduled to be ready in the third quarter of this year. The hotel has undergone significant refurbishments in the past, however, we have to keep our product current, appealing and fresh to ensure we retain our competitive edge. We certainly are excited and so are our guests to witness the unveiling of a stunning transformation,” said Hotel General Manager Robert Frager. With Joyce and Chef Kok Saxophonist Goh Boon Aik keeping us entertained Mixologist David Han showing off his bar flaring skills Delicious oysters! Joyce and me with “Charlie Chaplin” For more info, head over to www.facebook.com/RenaissanceKL   FH Club Luxury Boutique Official Launch [Event] Headed over to the launch of the new FH Club Luxury boutique in Sunway on 23 June 2016. FH Club offers consumers luxury goods at affordable prices and they have expanded their business with the launch of their new boutique located at 9C, Nadayu 28 Dagang, Jalan PJS 11/7, 48250 Bandar Sunway, Selangor. Carrie Lee and Jessy Phang Datin Seri Joey Low and Carron Kho Host of the event Lee Yvonne Adelina Chan Denise Ang Carrie Lee and Jessy Phang   More info at http://www.fhclub.com.my/   Peated Whisky Tasting with Jamey Merkel Organised by Asiaeuro [Event] Joey and I headed over to Saujana Hotel & Resort on 30 June 2016 for the peated whisky tasting with Jamey Merkel which was organised by Asiaeuro. Was a bit hesitant about bringing Jamie as not many girls know how to drink peated whiskies but boy was I mistaken as she absolutely loved it! Of course later the guys from Asiaeuro told me that girls have a better palate than guys but I still think that peated whiskies are acquired taste. Happy girl and her peated whiskies! So happy that she took a pic of it and posted it on her Instagram During the session we were taught how to appreciate it. Some whiskies (like the blended malts mostly) as drinking whiskies, great for drinking but not so much for tasting while others, like the four peated malts we had, are more tasting whiskies and for appreciation. Have a look at the whisky’s colour Nose the whisky to get the aromas Then of course sip it and enjoy! Do not yam sai or bottoms up as you’re really wasting it. Joey with Jamey   More info at http://www.asiaeurowines.com.my/   Hendrick’s Gin World Cucumber Day Cocktail Night with Tarsha Lu [Event] Tarsha Lu in action Mabel, Emanda and I headed over to Ojos Bar in Jaya One, Petaling Jaya on 17 June 2016 for the Hendrick’s Gin World Cucumber Gin Cocktail with guest mixologist Tarsha Lu. Throughout the night, we were kept well watered with three (3) bespoke cocktails made by Tarsha, and after she finished her session we had gin and tonic as well as a Negroni which the girls loved as it comes with a piece of torched cinnamon which imparted some nice sweetness to the drink. I still prefer my gin in a gin and tonic with a slice of cucumber! We also tried a Negroni   Hendrick’s Gin is distributed in Malaysia by Thai-Pore Malaysia. More info at https://www.facebook.com/thaiporemalaysia/   Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/06/01/editors-note-june-2018/

Editor’s Note – June 2018

[Editor’s Note] #KITASUDAHMENANG Malaysia reborn! Photo creidt: Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad’s Facebook   We did it Malaysia! We managed to change the government peacefully! The onus now is on all of us to help our country progress away from the clutches of corruption and abuse of power. My nine (9) year mission to see the corrupt BN government voted out of office has come to a close. Now that rule of law has returned to Malaysia, things are going to get quite interesting for those who have stolen the rakyat’s money over the past few years. However, a new danger looms in the form of “religious” extremism as 1 in 10 Malaysians voted for the fundamentalist and Islamofacist party that misuses religion for their own political gain. We must all now protect our reclaimed democracy and keep it away from the extremists who would love to see the country as part of ISIS.     Mid-year gourmet specials at Marina Bay Sands     If you’re headed to Singapore this mid-year, you might want to pop by or stay at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore as the hotel welcomes the football season as well as a series of exciting restaurant celebrations. Celebrate the Unites States of America Independence Day over barbeque delights at Adrift by David Myers, specialty cocktails and free chicken wings at The Bird Southern Table & Bar, and bourbon cocktails at Renku. From 14 June to 15 July, Marina Bay Sands’ premium lounge Club55 will be screening matches of the 2018 FIFA World Cup™. Catch the live action and enjoy spectacular city views 55 stories above ground, over light bites and themed beverages. The celebrations also continue at Marina Bay Sands’ all-day bar and lounge Renku with a hot wings and beer combo.    Independence Day celebrations at Marina Bay Sands Commemorate Independence Day at Rise and taste all-time American favourites such as the Smoked BBQ Beef Brisket   This (United States of America) Independence Day (4 July), jazz it up at Adrift by David Myers as the restaurant throws another signature bash with a “July 4th party”. Decked in festive hues of red and blue, the restaurant will be belting America’s greatest hits from 6pm to 2am. Each party-goer (S$20++) will enjoy a cheeseburger slider and a glass of cocktail, beer or sparkling wine. A one-night only a la carte menu will also be available, featuring light bites and barbecue sharing plates such as Smoked pulled pork collar with sesame carrot pickle and Teriyaki wings with pepper sauce. For reservations, email Adrift.Reservations@MarinaBaySands.com or call +65 6688 5657   Keep your glasses flowing at classic American restaurant The Bird Southern Table & Bar, as the restaurant join in the celebrations with its extensive cocktail selection. Beat the summer heat with specialty cocktails and enjoy fried chicken wings on the house on 4 July with the first cocktail purchased. For reservations, email TheBird.Reservations@marinabaysands.com or call +65 6688 9959   Those with family and friends can opt for dinner at international buffet restaurant RISE. On 4 July, the restaurant will be serving a medley of American classics such as Po’Boy with Remoulade, Smoked BBQ Beef Brisket, and Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream. Children can create their own soda floats at the DIY soda station, while others can choose to top up their buffet spread with a glass of draft beer at S$10++. For reservations, email Rise@MarinaBaySands.com or call +65 6688 5525   From 2 to 8 July, toast to Independence Day with a glass of good old bourbon at Renku Bar & Lounge. Nestled in the hotel lobby, the all-day bar and lounge will be offering three new bourbon cocktails (S$18++ per glass; two glasses at S$32++). For reservations, email Renku.Lounge@MarinaBaySands.com or call +65 6688 5535   Kick off football season at Marina Bay Sands   The highly anticipated 2018 FIFA World Cup™ kicks off with the first game of the season on 14 June. Fans in Singapore can cheer on their favourite teams at Club55, which will be screening up to 60 exciting matches, including the finals on 15 July. Join in the football fever and enjoy a night of merry-making over premium dishes such as Prime Aussie Beef Burger and Spicy Chicken Wings. Club55 has also concocted a series of themed beverages, which include Tackle, a rum-based cocktail packed with a citrus punch of mango and pineapple juice, Off Side, a nectarous gin-based cocktail with a hint of lemon, as well as Free Kick, a fizzy mocktail with refreshing mint notes. For reservations, email club55@marinabaysands.com or call +65 6688 8858.   From 14 June to 15 July, football fans can continue their victory celebrations at Renku Bar and Lounge with the Hot Wings and beer combo (S$25++). Savour half a dozen tantalizing wings alongside a trio beer flight (120ml each), comprising Renku Lager, Belgium Witbier and Irish Ale. For reservations, email Renku.Lounge@MarinaBaySands.com or call +65 6688 5535   Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay Indulge in Bread Street Kitchen’s famed Beef Wellington   Join the Gordon Ramsay restaurants worldwide in celebrating Beef Wellington Week (11 – 17 June) at Bread Street Kitchen at Marina Bay Sands. The Beef Wellington (S$80++) features a classic assembly of juicy seared filet mignon, salty prosciutto, herb crepe, and savoury duxelles, all encased in a golden crisp crust. For one week only, the restaurant will be taking the Wellington game a notch up with unique renditions such as the Salmon and Prawn Wellington (S$65++) and Chocolate Wellington (S$21++). This month, Bread Street Kitchen will also be celebrating its third year anniversary. All diners at the restaurant on 24 June will receive a sweet treat prepared with love by Bread Street Kitchen. For reservations, email BreadStreetKitchen.Reservations@MarinaBaySands.com or call +65 6688 5665   First year anniversary specials at The Bird Beer and The Great American Burger – a match made in heaven!    This July, classic American restaurant The Bird Southern Table and Bar will be offering a special Burger and Brew set (S$30++) as it turns one. The set comprises of The Great American Burger, featuring house smoked pork belly, a hearty short rib, brisket and chuck blend meat patty, American cheese and tangy sauce. The gourmet burger is best paired with a bottle of chilled amber beer. This anniversary special is available for the whole month of July. For reservations, email TheBird.Reservations@marinabaysands.com or call +65 6688 9959   Spago by Wolfgang Puck presents a M. Chapoutier wine dinner  Savour Spago’s award-winning cuisine paired with fine Chapoutier wines at the intimate colonial-style dining room    On 12 July, celebrity chef restaurant Spago by Wolfgang Puck will be collaborating with French wine maison M. Chapoutier to bring guests an unparalleled five-course wine dinner (S$225++). Best known for their full-bodied flavours and aroma, Chapoutier’s refined and vintage wines are carefully vinified using the best grapes from Rhone valley, France. A highlight on the menu is the Duo of Colorado Lamb, featuring roasted loin and braised breast, horseradish sphere, lima beans, carrot pureé and lamb jus. Elevate flavours of the dish by pairing it with a glass of Syrah, Crozes-Hermitage, “Les Varonniers” 2012 (Magnum), and Syrah, Ermitage, “Pavillon” 2007 (Magnum). Brand Ambassador for M. Chapoutier, Mr Edouard Payot, will also be curating the bespoke wine-pairing journey at the dinner. For reservations, email SpagoReservations@MarinaBaySands.com or call +65 6688 9955    Photo credits: Marina Bay Sands Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/04/10/new-jaguar-f-pace-2-0l-ingenium-suv-officially-launched-in-malaysia/

New Jaguar F-Pace 2.0l Ingenium SUV Officially Launched in Malaysia

[Automotive News]   Jaguar Land Rover officially launched the new F-Pace 2.0L Ingenium SUV today at all the Jaguar showrooms in Malaysia. The F-Pace 2.0L is available in three variants namely Prestige, R-Sport (Mid-Spec) and R-Sport (Hi-Spec), featuring a combination of stylish design, performance and practicality. The F-Pace 2.0L, which won Ward’s 2018 10 Best Engines award, is powered with Jaguar’s very own new 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium powertrain that is mated to a twin-scroll turbocharger producing outstanding horsepower of up to 250PS and 365Nm of torque from only 1,200rpm. The engine’s twin scroll turbocharger is fed by an integrated exhaust manifold that synchronises exhaust pulses from two separate pairs of cylinders – significantly reducing turbo lag while improving engine response. With the ability to achieve 0-100km/h in just 6.8 seconds, you’re looking at quite a fun ride for such a big SUV. The transmission in the F-PACE is developed with ZF to deliver unrivalled shift quality and efficiency. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder is mated to a lighter, more compact 8HP45. It also features a state-of-the-art pendulum damper in the torque converter that is extremely effective at absorbing low-frequency vibrations, enabling the engines to run at lower speeds without compromising refinement.     With Configurable Dynamics, the F-Pace also offers a personalised driving experience. The system allows drivers to choose Normal or Sports settings for the throttle response, gearbox and steering. Adaptive Dynamics modifies the F-Pace’s damper response to match the different conditions and driving style. It analyses acceleration, cornering, throttle and brake pedal activity to optimise the suspension settings and maintain the car’s dynamism and comfort. The F-Pace is Jaguar’s first aluminium-intensive model in its class that is developed using Jaguar’s Lightweight Aluminium Architecture. The F-Pace combines purity of line, surface and proportion with F-Type-inspired features such as powerful rear haunches, fender vents and distinctive taillight graphics. The bold front grille and the muscular bonnet, as well as elements such as the slender full-LED headlights, 20-inch wheels and short front overhang carry the design vision of the C-X17 concept through to production. Staying true to its concept from when it was first developed, the F-Pace is also a practical SUV suitable for everyday usability. It seats five with absolute comfort in a spacious, luxurious interior featuring premium materials, craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail.. It is also the first among rivals with the biggest boot volume, widest cabin width, biggest rear knee room and ease of rear access.     The new F-Pace 2.0L Ingenium comes with a host of enhancements and new convenient features which includes: ·       *Surround Camera System Makes parking by a kerb, tight spaces and junctions convenient as it gives the driver a 360° exterior vision on the touchscreen. Integrated in the system is the Forward Vehicle Guidance and Forward Traffic Detection. The Forward Vehicle Guidance provides the driver with on-screen visualisation of the vehicle and parking distance, while the Forward Traffic Detection helps avoid potential front collisions in situations with restricted views. ·       *Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist Adaptive Cruise Control uses radar technology to automatically adjust the speed of the car to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. When a vehicle slows down, the F-Pace reduces its speed to maintain a safe distance. ·       *12.3 Instrument Panel Display (Available only in the R-Sport (Hi-Spec) variant) The display comes with virtual dials and a full screen 3D map views. The driver can select a full screen 3D map view, or choose one of the four graphical themes to suit its personal preference.   The F-PACE has been designed and engineered for the most stringent global crash test requirements.   The 2017 Jaguar F-PACE was named the winner of the 2017 World Car of the Year and the World Car Design of the Year Awards at the New York International Auto Show. It is also the fastest selling model that Jaguar has ever produced, and is only the second vehicle to claim the historic double in the 13-year history of the World Car Awards. To achieve both wins, the F-PACE had to win the vote of 75 influential motoring journalists from 24 countries.   The new F-Pace 2.0L Ingenium is priced at: ·       Prestige                       -RM 425,800* ·       R-Sport (Mid-Spec)     -RM 476,800* ·       R-Sport (Hi-Spec)       -RM 498,800* *Price is inclusive of 6% GST but excludes Road Tax, Registration and Insurance.   All vehicles distributed by Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia are compatible with the Malaysian climate, environment, fuel quality and meet the Malaysian emission standard. All Jaguar vehicles distributed by authorised dealers also come with ‘Jaguar Care’ programme which includes a five-year warranty, five years’ free service and three years’ roadside assistance. For more info, head over to http://www.jaguar.com.my   Visuals courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2021/07/15/hilton-to-debut-new-flagship-branded-hotel-in-singapore-as-largest-in-asia-pacific/

Hilton to Debut New Flagship-Branded Hotel in Singapore as Largest in Asia Pacific

[Hospitality News] Hilton is set to launch its largest hotel in Asia Pacific with the opening of the 1,080-room Hilton Singapore Orchard in January 2022, owned by OUE Commercial REIT and managed by Hilton.  Now open for reservations, the hotel will debut in the heart of Singapore’s downtown Orchard Road. The hotel will represent Hilton’s flagship presence in the country following an extensive refurbishment and conversion from the current Mandarin Orchard Singapore. “As a hub and key city destination for business and leisure travellers, we are optimistic about the growth potential of Singapore’s hospitality scene as recovery begins and travel resumes over the long-term. We are delighted to start a brand new year with the launch of a significant addition to our regional portfolio through the opening of Hilton Singapore Orchard, which will represent a true landmark Hilton hotel in an important gateway city for South East Asia, and look forward to continue delivering our renowned levels of Hilton hospitality to everyone who passes through the doors of the hotel.” Paul Hutton, vice president, operations, South East Asia, Hilton By nature of its strategic location and extensive facilities and amenities, the new Hilton Singapore Orchard aims to be a hub for business and leisure along the city’s most iconic road. Just under a half hour drive from Singapore Changi Airport, travellers can expect an immersive stay in one of the city’s most coveted locations and enjoy access to a unique tapestry of experiences derived from an eclectic mix of international cuisines, fashion and design and a wide range of retail malls. Guests traveling for medical purposes will also appreciate the close proximity to premier specialist medical centers located nearby.  With 1,080 refurbished rooms and suites across two towers, Hilton Singapore Orchard will be one of the largest hotels in Singapore. Guests will have access to a variety of room and suite categories, while those travelling with families and loved ones can choose to book the hotel’s connecting rooms that can be instantly confirmed at the time of reservation. The hotel aims to cater to different travel segments, from leisure to business travellers and corporates to large groups.  Guests will enjoy a variety of amenities and services within the hotel including two 24-hour fully equipped fitness centers, an outdoor pool, a newly established Executive Lounge and a direct connection to a four-storey luxury shopping gallery with a host of local and international fashion brands and signature cafes and restaurants. Fresh Culinary Experiences Set to be a dining destination on its own, Hilton Singapore Orchard further elevates the city’s culinary scene with five (5) curated dining concepts including the award-winning Chatterbox, two Michelin-starred Shisen Hanten and three new food and beverage offerings featuring an all-day dining, a specialty restaurant and a lobby lounge and bar. Meetings and Events With 16 extensively renovated and versatile event spaces spanning more than 2,400 square metres, the hotel will be able to accommodate meetings and events ranging from conventions and exhibitions to weddings and social celebrations. Offering one of the largest event spaces in the city, Hilton Singapore Orchard will feature two uniquely designed and pillarless ballrooms fitted with state-of-the-art LED walls, lighting and sound technologies that can cater up to 1,000 guests and a dedicated pre-function area. For smaller meetings, planners can choose from 12 function rooms, a majority of which welcome natural daylight, and ample inspiring spaces around the hotel for private coffee breaks and breakout sessions.  Well-equipped for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) “Hilton Singapore Orchard will be one of the most anticipated hotels to open in 2022 and an exciting addition to the vibrant scene in Orchard Road. With 1,080 well-appointed accommodation options, one of the largest event spaces in the area, five curated dining concepts and a central location right in the heart of Singapore’s retail and dining haven, the hotel is set to be a destination of choice for business and leisure travellers, as well as those residing here.” Cedric Nubul, general manager, Hilton Singapore Orchard For more information, head over to www.hiltonsingaporeorchard.com Photo credits: Hilton Hotels . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/10/26/christmas-and-new-years-eve-2018-dinners-parties-promotions-in-kuala-lumpur/

Christmas and New Year’s Eve 2018/ 2019 Dinners, Parties & Promotions in Kuala Lumpur

If you’re looking for the 2019 list, head over to https://timchew.net/2019/10/26/christmas-2019-dining-promotions-and-new-years-eve-dinners-in-kuala-lumpur-and-selangor/   [Hotels and Restaurants Dining and F&B Promotions] My annual Christmas and New Year’s Eve (NYE) dining, countdown and party list is back and this time includes Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur, Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Aloft KL, Sheraton Petaling Jaya, Hilton Petaling Jaya, DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Kuching, Troika Sky Dining, Mr. Chew’s Chino Latino Bar, Ce La Vi Kuala Lumpur, Marini’s on 57, Cielo, Chez Gaston Bangsar and Cocott’. Read the full reviews I did this year: Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur – https://timchew.net/2018/12/03/december-2018-festive-afternoon-tea-at-altitude-banyan-tree-kuala-lumpur/ Tanzini and The Club at GTower Kuala Lumpur – https://timchew.net/2018/12/08/christmas-and-new-years-eve-2018-set-dinner-at-tanzini-and-the-club-gtower-kuala-lumpur/ Cedar on 15 at Impiana KLCC Hotel – https://timchew.net/2018/12/15/christmas-eve-dinner-menu-2018-at-cedar-on-15-impiana-klcc-hotel-kuala-lumpur/ Cocott’ in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail – https://timchew.net/2018/12/10/festive-set-menus-at-cocott-taman-tun-dr-ismail/     Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur Altitude Festive Afternoon Tea This slideshow requires JavaScript. Festive Afternoon Tea at Altitude, Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur, which is available from 1 to 31 December 2018 from 2.30pm to 4.30pm priced at RM98 nett per person which includes premium coffee and tea selections. The afternoon tea menu at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur includes Christmas Spice Tuiles, Orange Coral Crisp, Christmas Duck Bon-Bon, Truffle Mushroom Macaroon, Smoked Eel with Horseradish Mousse Choc, Foie Gras Grissini, Boston Lobster Panna Cotta with Avruga Caviar, Smoked Christmas Turkey Breast Sandwich. Christmas Egg Nogs, Buche de Noel, Strawberry Mousse with Chocolate Jelly, Christmas Mince Pie Macaroon, Vanilla Cup Cake, Assorted Christmas Cookies, Spiced X-Mas Walnuts, Classic Scones, and The Fruity Cranberry Scones.    Christmas Eve 4-Course Dinner The dinner happens on 24 December from 6.00pm to 11pm priced at RM388 nett per person and includes one glass of champagne. Menu Starter Christmas Spice Crusted Sea Bass Tart Caviar Potato, Lime Aglio Olio, Herb Salad Soup Celeriac Cappuccino Truffle Foam, Chicken Liver, Brioche Toast Main Course Medium Smoked Beef Sirloin & Christmas Spice Braised Beef Cheek Mable Syrup Spiced Butternut Squash Mash, Winter Greens, Walnut Butter Or Pan Fried Atlantic Salmon Beetroot, Peas Mousseline, Caramelized Onion, Tarragon Sauce Desserts Christmas Pudding with Vanilla Sauce    Horizon Grill Christmas Eve 4-Course Dinner 24 December from 6.30pm to 10.30pm priced at RM488 nett per person Menu Salad Christmas Salad Roasted Roots, Smoked Salmon, Sour Dough Croutons, Cranberry Vinaigrette Soup Chestnut Soup Confit Celeriac, Beef Bacon, Parmesan foam Main Course Roasted Prime Rib Horseradish Espuma, Buttered Baby Potatoes, Spinach Salad, Beef Jus Desserts The Christmas Ball Chocolate Soil, Mixed Fruits Jelly    Christmas Brunch 25 December from 12.00pm to 3.00pm priced at RM588 nett per person Menu Highlights Seafood Seasonal Oysters New Zealand Mussels Salmon Gravlax Avruga Caviar Hot Dish Salt Baked Seabass with Orange & Oregano Dressing Live Carving Christmas Turkey with Chestnuts Stuffing Whole Roasted Wet Aged Prime Rib Whole Roasted Lamb Shoulder    New Year Eve Gala Dinner 31 December from 6.30pm to 10.30pm priced at RM488 nett per person Menu Hors d’Oeuvres Organic Root Vegetable Mille Fuille Truffle Vinaigrette, Basil Cream Soup Classic Lobster Bisque Saffron Rouille, Roasted Lobster Main Course Wet Aged Angus Ribeye (200gm) Mixed Herb Salad, Beetroot & Garlic Puree Or Lemon Mint Roasted Chicken Breast Idaho Potato Mash, Chicken Jus, Sautéed Spinach Desserts Chocolate Anamelaka Tart Ginger Bread Ice Cream    New Year’s Brunch 1 January 2019 from 12.00pm to 3.00pm priced at RM588 nett per person Menu Highlights Seafood Seasonal Oysters New Zealand Mussels Salmon Gravlax Avruga Caviar Hot Dish Salt Baked Seabass with Sarawak Black Pepper Infused Oil Live Carving Whole Roasted Organic Chicken Whole Roasted Wet Aged Prime Rib      Vertigo Spend an electrifying night at the highest rooftop bar in town, a glamorous party highlighted by the beats of the guest DJ and fireworks display right in front of your eyes, as the stroke of midnight leaps into the new year. New Year’s Eve Party on 31 December 2018 from 7.00pm till late. Door ticket: RM80 nett per person (Including one drink) Table price: RM2,500 nett per table of 6 to 8 pax Dress Code: Smart casual- no shorts, no sandals and no flip-flops.      Banyan Tree Spa Enjoy 20% savings on the second treatment with purchase of any spa treatment from 1 to 31 December, from 10am to 10pm.     Royal Banyan – 150-minute treatment Coriander Cucumber Cleanser • Royal Banyan Herbal Pouch Massage • Jade Face Massage • Therapeutic Herbal Bath\    Sense of Place – Malaysian Bliss – 150-minute treatment Turmeric Honey Cleanser • Nusantara Massage • Goat Milk Face Mask • Scalp Massage • Jasmine Green Tea Bath    Bake by Banyan Tree Lots of festive goodies are available from 1 to 25 December 2018 (however kindly pre order 24 hours in advance). RM15 nett each – Gingerbread Men Cookies, Frosted Walnuts, Festive Cookies, Stolen Bites, Cheese Pretzel, or Salted Pretzel RM35 nett each – Marzipan Stolen Loaf 500 Gram RM85 nett each – Build Your Own Gingerbread House RM170 nett each – Traditional Grand-Marnier Chocolate Log or Jingle-Bake Log   For more info, head over to https://www.banyantree.com/en/malaysia/kuala-lumpur or telephone + 603 2113 1888       Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur This slideshow requires JavaScript.      Christmas Eve Dining Promotions – Monday, 24th December 2018    LEMON GARDEN Lunch Buffet (12noon – 3.00pm) priced at RM193 nett – adult / RM96.50 nett – child Dinner Buffet (6.30pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM293nett – adult / RM146.50 nett – child    LAFITE 6-Course Set Dinner (7.00pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM570 nett per person Early Bird Offer- RM510 nett per person (full payment is a must by 10 December)    ARTHUR’S BAR & GRILL 4-Course Set Dinner with Carving Trolley (7.00pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM250 nett per person    ZIPANGU Festive Japanese Dinner Buffet (6.30pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM258 nett – adult / RM129 nett – child Early Bird Offer – RM218 nett person (full payment is a must by 10 December)    Christmas Day – Tuesday, 25th December 2018 LEMON GARDEN Lunch Buffet (12noon – 3.00pm) priced at RM273 nett – adult / RM136.50 nett – child Dinner Buffet (6.30pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM263nett – adult / RM131.50 nett – child    LAFITE Lunch Buffet with complimentary wine & beer (12noon – 3.00pm) priced at RM410 nett – adult / RM205 nett – child Dinner Buffet with complimentary wine & beer (7.00pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM410 nett – adult / RM205 nett – child    ARTHUR’S BAR & GRILL 4-Course Set Lunch with Carving Trolley (12noon – 3.00pm) priced at RM250 nett per person    ZIPANGU Festive Japanese Lunch Buffet (12noon– 3.00pm) – RM198 nett – adult / RM99 nett – child Early Bird Offer – RM168 nett person (full payment is a must by 10 December) Festive Japanese Dinner Buffet (6.30pm – 10.30pm) – RM238 nett – adult / RM119 nett – child Early Bird Offer – RM198 nett person (full payment is a must by 10 December)    New Year’s Eve Countdown Party – Monday, 31st December 2018, 9.00pm onwards Lobby Lounge Countdown Party Welcome 2019 at the Lobby Lounge with live band, DJ and a choice of party packages which include canapes, beverages and party packs. PARTY PACKAGES: Table for 2 at RM850 nett 1 bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne 1 bottle of house wine (red or white) Table for 4 at RM1,300 nett 2 bottles of Veuve Clicquot champagne 1 bottle of house wine (red or white) Table for 6 at RM1,900 nett 3 bottles of Veuve Clicquot champagne 2 bottles of house wine (red or white)    LEMON GARDEN Lunch Buffet (12noon – 3.00pm) priced at RM193 nett – adult / RM96.50 nett – child Dinner Buffet (6.30pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM293nett – adult / RM146.50 nett – child    LAFITE 7-Course Set Dinner (7.00pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM680 nett per person Early Bird Offer – RM620 nett per person (full payment is a must by 10 December)    ARTHUR’S BAR & GRILL Dinner Buffet (7.00pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM310 nett per person *URB band and DJ till late    ZIPANGU Izakaya Specials (6.30pm– 10.30pm) priced at RM298 nett – adult / RM149 nett – child Early Bird Offer- RM268 nett per person (full payment is a must by 10 December)    New Year’s Day Celebration – Tuesday, 1st January 2019 LEMON GARDEN Lunch Buffet (12noon – 3.00pm) priced at RM203 nett – adult / RM101.50 nett – child Dinner Buffet (6.30pm – 10.30pm) priced at RM223nett – adult / RM111.50 nett – child    ZIPANGU Osechi Set Menu (1 to 4 January) for Lunch (12noon – 2.30pm) and Dinner (6.30pm– 10.30pm) priced at RM300 nett per person    Bring Home a Roast Turkey (1 – 25 December 2018) Pick your flavour from a classic roasted turkey or one with a delicious Asian twist. Roasted Whole Turkey with Apple-Chestnut and Raisin Stuffing Maple-Laced Lemon Thyme Roasted Whole Turkey with Apricot and Italian Style Sausage Stuffing Five Spices Roasted Turkey with Lotus Rice Tandoori Turkey with Briyani Stuffing Prices: S: RM600 (4 to 6 persons) M: RM700 (8 to 10 persons) L: RM800 (10 to 12 persons) Early bird offer: 10% off on Turkey Delights – This offer is valid with full payment and must be collected by 15 December 2018 – This offer is not valid with any other discounts, promotions or point redemptions – Golden Circle point redemption is not valid for Turkey Delights         Hilton Kuala Lumpur (Sentral) Graze – Modern European Brasserie Get in the festive mood when you order our set menu featuring festive selections, specially curated and whipped up by the hotel’s MasterChef. 2-course Set Menu: RM148 nett per person 3-course Set Menu: RM178 nett per person Christmas Eve Set Menu RM288 Nett on 24th December 2018 Enjoy an enchanting Christmas Eve dinner with a 4-course set menu. Enjoy all things merry and festive with a refreshing starter followed by warm soup and a robust main course before ending the night with the classic bread and butter pudding. Christmas Brunch RM298 Nett on 25th December 2018 Experience a truly different dining experience at our brasserie on this cheery day. Feast on a 4-course lunch served a la buffet with a dizzying  array of cold or hot starters and a selection of meat cuts; not forgetting our extensive list of sweet treats to complete your meal.  Christmas Dinner RM218 Nett on 25th December 2018 Indulge in a traditional 4-course Christmas dinner with your nearest and dearest featuring all your festive favourites including the classic American Turkey Crown  and a cheery Christmas pudding. New Year Eve Dinner RM328 Nett on 31st December 2018 Usher in the New Year with a fulfilling and scrumptious 4-course meal complete with canapés and a complimentary glass of Prosecco to bid  2018 goodbye. Terms & Conditions applicable at Graze: · One-day advance reservations required. ·Pre-payment required. · 20% discount applicable for Hilton Premium Club/  Hilton Dining APAC members and bank partner credit card holders.    Vasco’s The hotel is offering a journey to explore traditional festive favourites such as roasted turkey, gingerbread goodies, chocolate Yule log, cinnamon stars and more! 1 December 2018 – 1 January 2019*  Lunch: RM140 per adult Dinner: RM168 per adult  Free-Flow Beverage Packages: Soft drinks & juices: RM40  Tiger draught: RM120 House wine (Red/White/Sparkling): RM220 24 December 2018  Dinner: RM200 per adult Surcharge of RM20 per person for window-seating  25 December 2018 Lunch: RM228 per adult Dinner: RM200 per adult LUNCH ONLY: Surcharge of RM20 per person for window-seating 31 December 2018  Dinner: RM200 per adult  Surcharge of RM20 per person for window-seating  1 January 2019  Lunch: RM148 per adult  Dinner: RM168 per adult  Terms & Conditions applicable at Vasco’s: · One-day advance reservations required · Complimentary dining vouchers NOT APPLICABLE during blackout dates · Group dining vouchers applicable for advanced reservation only during blackout dates · 20% discounts for HPC/HDA and bank partner credit card holders during blackout dates · *Blackout dates: 24th – 25th December 2018 & 31st December 2018 – 1st January 2019 (Price includes Giveaway Party Pack). · Kids activity: mingling clowns with balloons during lunch on the 25th December & 1 January 2019 For reservations, call us at +60 3 2264 2264       InterContinental® Kuala Lumpur Hotel InterContinental® Kuala Lumpur hotel will be having a season-themed buffet spread at Serena Brasserie and special set menu at the award-winning signature restaurants Tao Chinese Cuisine and Tatsu Japanese Cuisine. The Christmas voyage begins on the 6 December with a lighting ceremony of the hotel’s Christmas tree and unveiling of a lifelike and detailed gingerbread village carefully crafted by in-house pastry tea complemented with the joyful ambiance of Christmas carolling. Exclusively for guests this season, a 20% early bird discount applies to festive reservations with full payment made before 15 December 2018.    IVIV (OneSixFive) Lounge & Bar Begin the gaiety of this festive season with the company of delightful and inspiring culinary surprises over a Secret Garden Afternoon Tea set at IVIV (OneSixFive) Lounge & Bar from 1 December 2018 – 1 January 2019. At RM 142.00 + per set, you will be presented with delectably Mandarin Chocolate Manjari Cream Shooter, Lobster Vol Au Vent, Cream Cheese and Lime Tart paired with smoked salmon and a homemade mustard dip hand crafted by the Executive Pastry Chef Chan.    Serena Brasserie Savour the gastronomic treats at Serena Brasserie this December and children get to make themselves gingerbread cookies while dining in on selected sessions.  Happening on selected Sundays, our culinary team will pamper your palate with the finest European delights served with turkey and Christmas desserts from RM 142.00 + per person while the little ones will be entertained at the fun-filled kids’ corner.   The thrilling flavours of Christmas Feast buffet dinner featuring live cooking stations for turkey “King Ludwig” style and split-roasted prime rib as well as freshly flown-in seafood on ice selections showcasing favourites such as live shucked grilled oysters, King crab legs and more from RM 238.00 + per person on Christmas Eve. A luscious chocolate fountain will be served to your evening on a sweet note. Ignite your Christmas day with family from RM 218.00 + per person, given a choice of buffet brunch or traditional Christmas buffet dinner prepared by Executive Chef Jakob. Kids below 6 years old get to eat for free for dinner.      With a knack in redefining traditional classics dishes with premium ingredients and contemporary presentation, the award-winning signature restaurant, Tao Chinese Cuisine and Tatsu Japanese Cuisine offer exquisite table d’hôte menu.  Tao Chinese Cuisine presents a stunning 6-course special menu including braised bird’s nest, pan-fried foie gras and flame clay pot cod fish at RM 278.00 + per person. Tatsu Japanese Cuisine revels in festive spirit with a tailor-made 6-course Kaiseki menu by Chef Tommy, including his signature dish, the Boston Lobster paired with red wine batayaki sauce at RM 298.00 + per person. Both offers available on 24 and 25 December.   New Year Specials Enjoy sumptuous feasts from 31 December 2018 to 1 January 2019. Usher in 2019 with the New Year Eve’s Fisherman’s BBQ dinner at Serena Brasserie highlighting espresso-butter and honey glazed roasted US prime rib and country style roasted duck will be live-prepared in front of you from RM 238.00 + per person.  Indulge in a lavish New Year’s seafood brunch featuring tiger prawns, slipper lobster and herb roasted lamb cooked in Saffron-scented Chickpea pilaf on 1 January 2019 at Serena Brasserie from RM 142.00 + per person. Tao Chinese Cuisine offers a 6-course luxury seafood menu including chilled five head abalone on 31 December 2018 and 1 January 2019 from RM 278.00 + per person or pamper your taste buds with the traditional Japanese multi-course meal at Tatsu Japanese Cuisine from RM 298.00 + per person. For more info, telephone +603 2782 6000 / +603 2782 6173 or email foodandbeverage@intercontinental-kl.com.my for dining reservations, or head over to kualalumpur.intercontinental.com        Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral   Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral celebrates the upcoming holiday season and jolliest time of the year with festive offerings at Nook, Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral’s all-day dining restaurant. Nook’s festive fare, ‘A Lofty Christmas’, will be offered from 1 till 30 December 2018, and will highlight traditional festive dishes on the buffet spread with Nook’s local specialty dishes like their signature Sarawak Laksa complementing the seasonal spread. On the menu will be a range of meat selections on the carving station from Roasted Lamb Leg with Yorkshire Pudding, Sauteed Brussel Sprouts and Black Pepper sauce, Garlic and Herbs Crusted Roast Beef Sirloin with Mushroom sauce and Oven-Roasted Baste Turkey with Roasted Pumpkin, sautéed Beans, Cranberry and Giblet sauce, Pan-fried Fish with Capers Cream sauce, Osso Bucco, Black Mussel Aglio Olio. There will also be a selection of hot Western casserole dishes including Chicken Shepherd’s Pie, Beef Stroganoff, Seafood Lasagne, Lamb and Mushroom Ragout, Boxing Chicken in Teriyaki Sauce, and a variety of pastas and pizzas. Nook’s Christmas Eve Dinner and Christmas Day Lunch will feature an enhanced festive spread as this year, Chef Ahmed Zaki, Nook’s Sous Chef, will be serving up the Oven-Roasted Orange Brine Turkey for the Christmas special with an assortment of condiments including Roasted Vegetable and Apple Chestnut Stuffing, Giblet Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, Natural Jus, Hollandaise Sauce, House-Pickled Onions, English Mustard and Horseradish Sauce. Nook will also offer Asian flavours which will include Rendang Ayam, Sambal Udang Petai, Braised Lamb Shank with Sze Chuan Sauce, Singapore Chilli Crab, Briyani Rice, Eggplant Masala, Sarawak Laksa, Steamed Red Snapper with Lime and Ginger and more. A festive feast is never complete without desserts and this Christmas season, Nook’s selection of sweet offerings features an assortment of tarts, pies, cakes and trifles. Look out for the Lemon Meringe Tart, Pecan Nut Tart, Peach Tart, Pies – Apple, Pumpkin and Pecan – and other desserts including Christmas Chocolate Log Cake, Vanilla Yule Log, Cappuccino Cheesecake, Lemon and Mascarpone Cheese Cake, Pistachio Mille Feuille, Cinnamon Spice and Cream Cheese Roulade, Butterscotch Trifle, Fruit Triffle, Apple and Cranberry Gallette, Mixed Berry Pavlova, Cake Pops and many more! Nook’s ‘A Lofty Christmas’ dinner buffet spread is available from 1 – 30 December 2018 from 6.30pm to 10.30pm and is priced at RM118nett per adult while Christmas Eve’s buffet Dinner is priced at RM128 nett per adult and Christmas Day’s lunch spread will be priced at RM98 nett per adult for lunch from 12.00noon to 2.30pm. For reservations and more information, telephone +(60) 3 2723 1188 or head over to http://www.aloftkualalumpursentral.com   This slideshow requires JavaScript.      Sheraton Petaling Jaya    Sheraton Petaling Jaya will be having a daily Christmas themed dinner buffet will be served in Feast from December 17 to 30, 2018 priced at RM118nett per adult and RM59nett for children age 5 – 11 year old. Among the food selections that will be served during this period are Chicken and Prune Roulade with Herb Gravy, Braised Lamb Shank with Polenta, Smoked Duck Breast, Smoked Beef Steak with Salsa Verde, Herb Crusted Breast of Chicken with Jus, Gratin Oyster with Garlic Butter and Cheese, Seared Burger Steak with Onion Sauce, Pan-fried Seabass with Grape Butter Cream and more.  The traditional roasted rib eye at RM338 and Roast Turkey at RM368 accompanied with Giblet & Cranberry sauce, chestnut stuffing, buttered vegetables and sweet potatoes is also available for delivery to you within the Klang Valley. On Christmas Eve (24 December) or Christmas Day (25 December), dine in Feast where there is the dinner buffet priced at RM168nett per adult on 24 December, Christmas brunch priced at RM148nett, and Christmas dinner priced at RM138nett. Miyabi Japanese restaurant will be offering a dinner buffet priced at RM190nett per adult or RM200 on Christmas day with one glass of wine; or enjoy the Chinese set in Yue featuring a six (6) course meal priced at RM168nett.       Gear up for the countdown night on the December 31, 2018 where Sheraton Petaling Jaya have prepared numerous venues for you and your friends to count the last hours of 2018 and party until the wee hours of 2019. Catch the fireworks from with your friends at the rooftop bar Sala, where you get an unobstructed view of the city centre and upbeat music from the spinning disc of the DJ and pump the night away or you can opt for a quieter and intimate countdown in our club lounge and cigar bar, Chime with your younger family members for a more comfortable and cosy celebration. These areas are open with cover charges that includes 1 drink or if you come in a party and beverage package fits the requirement even better.   Christmas Themed Buffet – December 15 – 30, 2018* FEAST All-Day Dining Restaurant, Level 3 Dinner Buffet 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM Adult << RM118 >> Child aged 5-11 << RM59 >> * Not applicable on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day   Christmas Eve Meals – December 24, 2018 FEAST All-Day Dining Restaurant, Level 3 Dinner Buffet [Fully-Booked] 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM Adult << RM168 >> Child aged 5-11 << RM84 >> MIYABI Japanese Restaurant, Level 3A Dinner Buffet 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM Adult << RM190 >> * inclusive of 1 glass of wine Child aged 5-11 << RM95 >> YUE Chinese Restaurant, Level 3A 6-Course Set Meal Lunch 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM Dinner 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM << RM168 >> per person * with a minimum of 2 persons   Christmas Day Fares – December 25, 2018 FEAST All-Day Dining Restaurant, Level 3 Brunch Buffet [Fully-Booked] 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM Adult << RM148 >> Child aged 5-11 << RM74 >> Dinner Buffet [Fully-Booked] 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM Adult << RM138 >> Child aged 5-11 << RM69 >> MIYABI Japanese Restaurant, Level 3A Set Meal Lunch 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM Dinner 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM << RM200 >> per person YUE Chinese Restaurant, Level 3A 6-Course Set Meal Lunch 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM Dinner 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM << RM168 >> per person * with a minimum of 2 persons   New Year’s Eve Meals – December 31, 2018 FEAST All-Day Dining Restaurant, Level 3 Dinner Buffet 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM Adult << RM178 >> Child aged 5-11 << RM84 >> MIYABI Japanese Restaurant, Level 3A Dinner Buffet 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM Adult << RM190 >> * inclusive of 1 glass of wine Child aged 5-11 << RM95 >> YUE Chinese Restaurant, Level 3A 6-Course Set Meal Lunch 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM Dinner 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM << RM168 >> per person * with a minimum of 2 persons   New Year’s Day Fares – January 1, 2019 FEAST All-Day Dining Restaurant, Level 3 Brunch Buffet 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM Adult << RM148 >> Child aged 5-11 << RM74 >> Dinner Buffet 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM Adult << RM138 >> Child aged 5-11 << RM69 >> MIYABI Japanese Restaurant, Level 3A Set Meal Lunch 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM Dinner 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM << RM220 >> per person YUE Chinese Restaurant, Level 3A 6-Course Set Meal Lunch 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM Dinner 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM << RM168 >> per person * with a minimum of 2 persons   Countdown Parties – December 31, 2018 SALA Rooftop Bar, Level 33 10:00 PM till late Countdown with the top 40 hits from DJ Fat Bone & DJ Soya! Cover Charge << RM 80 >> per person * inclusive of party pack & 1 drink (beer, soft drink or water) Pearl Package << RM999 >> 💎 Free entrance & Party Packs for 6 persons 💎 2 bottles of House Pour Selection Ruby Package << RM1399 >> 💎 Free entrance & Party Packs for 8 persons 💎 2 bottles of House Pour Selection 💎 1 bottle of Champagne Sapphire Package << RM1699 >> 💎 Free entrance & Party Packs for 8 persons 💎 3 bottles of House Pour Selection 💎 1 bottle of Champagne 💎 1 Snack Platter Diamond Package << RM2399 >> 💎 Free entrance & Party Packs for 12 persons 💎 3 bottles of House Pour Selection 💎 2 bottles of Champagne 💎 2 Snack Platters   CHIME LOUNGE Cigar Lounge, Level 3A 10:00 PM till late Silver Package << RM1399 >> for 8 persons 💎 2 bottles of House Pour Selection 💎 1 bottle of Champagne 💎 2 Snack Platters 💎 Party Packs Gold Package << RM1699 >> for 12 persons 💎 3 bottles of House Pour Selection 💎 1 bottle of Champagne 💎 2 Snack Platters 💎 Party Packs For more info, head over to https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/szbsi-sheraton-petaling-jaya-hotel/ or telephone 03 7622 8888 or email sheraton.petalingjaya@sheraton.com.       Hilton Petaling Jaya Paya Serai Restaurant Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner A traditional Christmas dinner with mouth-watering roast including Chef’s special recipe: whole roasted turkey, lamb and venison with delightful trimmings. Get in the festive mood with complimentary party packs and sing along with carollers. WIN a mystery gift from our ‘Ginger Bread House’ for every minimum spend of RM 250 in a single receipt. 24th December 2018 & 31st December 2018 RM 168 Nett (Adult) RM 88 Nett (Child) Enjoy special price of RM 138 Nett for bookings made before 10th December 2018    Christmas Day Buffet Dinner – 25th December 2018 RM 148 Nett (Adult) RM 78 Nett (Child) Enjoy special price of RM 128 Nett for bookings made before 10th December 2018    Christmas Day & New Year’s Day HiTea – 25th December 2018 & 1st January 2019 12.30pm – 4.30pm RM 158 Nett (Adult) RM 78 Nett *Child) Enjoy special price of RM 138 Nett for bookings made before 10th December 2018    Genji Japanese Restaurant Genji’s Festive Specials Revel in a hearty buffet spread at Genji to celebrate the festive Christmas season. To commemorate the end of the year, the restaurant is also offering exclusive New Year specials to usher in a brand new year. 24th – 25th December 2018 & 31st December 2018 – 1st January 2019 RM 195 Nett (Adult) RM 100 Nett (Child) + RM 75 Nett for Free Flow of Beverages    Toh Yuen Chinese Restaurant December Festive Treats at Toh Yuen Savour authentic Cantonese cuisine with a twist to this Yuletide season. Available for the whole month of December. 1st – 31st December 2018 RM 1888 per table of 10 persons    Uncle Chilli’s Festive Dinner Treats 24th – 25th December 2018 31st December 2018 – 1st January 2019 Live Band performances∙Special festive menu∙Party Pack Enjoy FREE house-pouring red/white wine for every table of 10 pax and get 2nd bottle at RM 88 nett! RM 100 For reservations, call +603 7955 9122 or head over to http://www.zestpj.com/reservation/       Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur   Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur has good things in store for the month of December with Christmas and an awesome finish to a great 2018.     CHRISTMAS EVE & CHRISTMAS Gobo Chit Chat at Level 5 Bucked Out Seafood – Festive Edition 1 – 31 December Every Friday & Saturday 6.30pm – 10.30pm RM 149 nett per person   Christmas Eve Seafood Buffet Dinner Monday, 24 December 6.30pm – 11.00pm RM 168 nett per person RM 218 nett per person inclusive of free flow wine & bubbly Early Bird: RM 378 nett for two persons inclusive of free flow wine & bubbly   Christmas Day Brunch Tuesday, 25 December 12.00pm – 3.30pm RM 138 nett per person RM 169 nett per person inclusive of free flow wine & bubbly With roaming clowns and activities for the little ones.   *Carollers will perform on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day    GOBO UPSTAIRS LOUNGE & GRILL at Level 6 Festive Set Dinner 1 – 31 December 6.00pm – 10.30pm RM 188 nett per person for 3-course menu RM 248 nett person for 5-course menu inclusive of free flow wine    Christmas Eve Dinner Monday, 24 December 6.30pm – 11.00pm RM 298 nett per person for 4-course menu   Traditional Christmas Day Brunch Tuesday, 25 December 12.00pm – 3.30pm RM 248 nett per person inclusive of free flow wine & bubbly   *Carollers will perform on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day*    NEW YEAR’S EVE & NEW YEAR Gobo Chit Chat at Level 5 New Year’s Eve Seafood Dinner Monday, 31 December 6.30pm – 11.00pm RM 218 nett per person RM 248 nett per person inclusive of free flow wine & bubbly With New Year’s Eve live entertainments Early Bird: RM 438 nett for two persons inclusive of free flow wine & bubbly   Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill Level 6 New Year’s Eve Dinner Monday, 31 December 7.30pm onwards RM 428 nett per person for 5-course menu RM 528 nett per person for 5-course menu inclusive of free flow wine Access to SkyBar for fireworks   New Year’s Eve Exclusive Dinner Gobo Upstairs Lounge Are with KLCC View Monday, 31 December RM 2,950 nett per couple for 5-course menu +free flow wine+ 1 bottle champagne   SKYBAR Special Packages for New Year’s Eve On the decks will be: Charlotte Devaney Natalia Moon Dennis Lau Ezzy    Package 1 at Level 34 Table for 2 persons (non-cabana seating) RM 1,800 nett inclusive of 2 bottles (1 bottle Moët Brut and choice of 1 bottle Singleton 12 years or Belvedere Pure Vodka)   Package 2 at Level 33 Table for 4 persons (non-cabana seating) RM 2,500 nett inclusive of 2 bottles (1 bottle Moët Brut and choice of 1 bottle Johnnie Walker Gold Label or Singleton 12 years or Belvedere Pure Vodka)   Package 3 at Level 33 Table for 4 persons (non-cabana seating) RM 3,500 nett inclusive of 3 bottles (choice of Moët Rose and Johnnie Walker Gold Label or Singleton 12 years or Belvedere Pure Vodka or Ron Zacapa) and food   Package 4 at Level 33 Table for 4 persons (non-cabana seating near dance floor) RM 3,900 nett inclusive of 4 bottles ( 1 bottle Moët Rose and choice of 3 bottles Johnnie Walker Gold Label or Singleton 12 years or Belvedere Pure Vodka or Ron Zacapa) and food   Package 5 at Level 33 Table for 6 persons (cabana seating with KLCC view) RM 6,500 nett inclusive of 5 bottles ( Veuve Cliquot or Johnnie Walker Gold Label or Singleton 12 years or Belvedere Pure Vodka or Ron Zacapa ) and food   Platinum Package Table for 8 – 10 persons (with KLCC view) RM 6,900 nett inclusive of 5 bottles (Veuve Cliquot or Johnnie Walker Gold Label or Singleton 12 years or Belvedere Pure Vodka or Ron Zacapa) and food   Titanium Package Table for 6 persons (cabana seating with KLCC view) RM 10,000 nett inclusive of 5 bottles Dom Perignon and food   Cover Charge RM 150 nett per person inclusive of 1 glass of Moët Brut   For reservations or enquiries, telephone (603) 2332 9818 or email thkl@tradershotels.com       Doubletree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur Makan Kitchen Christmas Hi-Tea Brunch Indulge in 3 types of traditional Christmas roast – turkey, lamb & beef sirloin – on top of over 60 dishes featuring an array of festive favourites, yuletide desserts and a special visit from Santa Claus himself. 22nd – 25th December 2018 RM 118 Nett (Adult) RM 59 Nett (Children from 6-12 years old)    Christmas Feast Enjoy a scrumptious festive dinner with your loved ones featuring 5 amazing roasts – whole turkey, prime ribs, lamb, salmon and turkey ham. All these and more to get you in the mood for the year-end festive cheer. 23rd – 25th December 2018 RM 158 Nett (Adult) RM 79 Nett (Children from 6-12 years old) Enjoy 25% OFF for Early Bird bookings made before 15 December 2018. For reservations, telephone 03-2172 7272 or email: KULDT_FBReservations@hilton.com       Berjaya Times Square Hotel This year, Berjaya Times Square Hotel, Kuala Lumpur will be offering the Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner on 24 December 2018, Christmas Hi-Tea Brunch on 25 December 2018, and New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner on 31 December 2018 at Big Apple Restaurant. Be spoiled for choice for the whole family with an array of activities lined-up by the hotel to complete your festive celebration and culinary adventure. There will also be lucky prizes to be won such as fashionable gifts of artwork sponsored by 97bros, hotel stay vouchers and hotel dining vouchers. The hotel’s Executive Chef Abri, who previously worked in Michelin award-winning kitchens shared that for this special season; the hotel is all ready with a full spread of traditional Christmas delicacies, so guests can fully enjoy authentic Christmas dishes. “Personally, I would love to recommend our speciality of Hot Lamp and Roast spread which consist of Roast Christmas Turkey with Chestnuts, Roasted Chicken with Honey and Sesame Seed, Slow Roasted Prime Beef and Boneless Leg of a Lamb. Apart from that, a myriad palate of mouth-watering dishes will be served such as Steamed Brussel Sprout with Alfredo Sauce, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Assorted Mushroom Ala Greque, Smoked Salmon Roulade with Caviar, and our sweet delights temptations such as Christmas Spiced Cake, Panettone, Christmas Pudding with Cream Anglaise and assorted macaroons and Christmas themed pastries,” shared Chef Abri.    Big Apple Restaurant 24 December 2018 – Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner 6.30pm till 10.30pm Price: RM138 nett per adult, RM58 nett per child & RM69 nett per senior citizen Inclusive a glass of house wine or house mocktail 25 December 2018 – Christmas Day Hi-Tea Brunch 12.30pm till 4.00pm Price: RM98 nett per adult, RM58 nett per child & RM58 nett per senior citizen Inclusive a glass of house wine or house mocktail 31 December 2018 – New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner 6.30pm till 10.30pm Price: RM148 nett per adult, RM58 nett per child & RM74 nett per senior citizen 1st January 2019 – New Year’s Hi Tea Brunch 12.30pm till 4.00pm Price: RM98 nett per adult, RM58 nett per child & RM58 nett per senior citizen    Samplings on the Fourteenth Restaurant Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve Set Menu Promotion 24 December 2018 Christmas Eve 5-Course Set Dinner 6.30pm till 10.30pm Price: RM188 nett per person Inclusive a glass of house wine or house mocktail 31 December 2018 New Year’s Eve 6-Course Set Menu 6.30pm till 10.30pm Price: RM228 nett per person Inclusive a glass of house wine or house mocktail    The New Year 2019 countdown will be happening on 31 December 2018 at Broadway Lounge from 11.00pm till 2.00am (priced at RM50.00nett per pax) and Poolside Gazebo from 9.00pm onwards (priced at RM80.00nett per pax); inclusive of wine, beer, sparkling wine and party packs. Christmas Goodies are also for sale and pre-bookings available in the Life Size Gingerbread House situated at the hotel lobby; such as various selections of Takeaway French Turkey, Christmas Chocolate House, Red Velvet Chestnut Yule Log Cake, Christmas Fruit with Icing Sugar and many other selections. Priced from RM16 nett – RM388 nett. To make a reservation or for further inquiries, telephone Big Apple Restaurant at 03 2117 8000 (ext. 8133), Samplings On The Fourteenth (ext. 8131), Broadway Lounge (ext. 8127) and Poolside Gazebo (ext. 8977) or head over to http://www.berjayahotel.com         Impiana KLCC Hotel This slideshow requires JavaScript.    This festive season, discerning diners will be spoilt for choice at Impiana KLCC Hotel’s renowned food and beverage outlets CEDAR on 15 – a chic and contemporary rooftop restaurant and bar with a stunning panoramic view of the Kuala Lumpur city skyline – and Tonka Bean Café & Deli, the hotel’s cosy and stylish casual dining restaurant. Diners can look forward to an array of culinary delights to celebrate Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Eve with their loved ones before ushering in year 2019 with a countdown party at Cedar on 15 and the Hotel’s infinity edge pool.   Christmas Eve Dinner and Christmas Hi-Tea Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner ·         Venue             : Tonka Bean Café & Deli ·         Cuisine          : International and local ·         Date             : Monday, 24 December 2018 ·         Time             : 6.30pm – 12 midnight ·         Price             : RM158+ (per adult) / RM79+ (per child)   Christmas Day Hi-Tea ·         Venue             : Tonka Bean Café & Deli ·         Date             : Tuesday, 25 December 2018 ·         Time             : 12.30pm – 4.30pm ·         Price             : RM138+ (per adult) / RM69+ (per child)   At Tonka Bean Café and Deli, a sumptuous buffet dinner spread with popular dishes from around the world awaits diners on Christmas Eve. Guests will enjoy tucking into much-loved favourites such as Whole Roasted Turkey with Apple Stuffing, Smoked Duck Terrine with Pistachio, Osso Bucco Milanese, Stuffed Chicken Galantine with Shallot Mustard Sauce, Steamed Red Snapper with Chilli Bean Sauce, Indian Fish Tikka Masala, Thai Pomelo Prawns and Glass Noodles Salad, Gulai Ayam Pedas and Ketam Lemak Nenas. Diners with a penchant for desserts will be pleasantly surprised by a pretty dessert counter featuring a Christmas Yule Log cake, Christmas Stollen, Pistachio Cheery Cheese Cake, Morello Cherry Tarts, Christmas Cookies and unlimited servings of Baskin Robbins ice-cream. To add to the festive mood, a three-piece band will entertain guests as they dine, and kids will be delighted with the appearance of Santa Claus at the event. The celebration continues on Christmas Day with a Christmas Hi-Tea from noon until late afternoon, presenting the perfect opportunity for guests to celebrate the holiday with their family and friends. Delicacies served will cater to a variety of taste buds and include Grilled Asparagus Mushroom and Zucchini with Basil Dressing, Smoked Chicken with Chilli Dressing, Pan Fried Seabass with Mushroom Ragout and Capers Olive Cream, Lamb Shoulders with Green Peppercorn Sauce, Lamb Kurma with Potatoes, Sushi, Sashimi and lots more. As a high-tea would not be complete without scones, a desserts and pastries corner will feature English Scones, Muffins, Danish Pastries, Lemon Curd Trifle, an assortment of Malay kuih and plenty more. Entertainment for kids includes face painting sessions, a clown and Santa Claus’ presence at a dedicated children’s corner in the restaurant.   Christmas Eve 5-Course Western Dinner ·         Venue             : CEDAR on 15 ·         Date             : Monday, 24 December 2018 ·         Time             : 6.30pm – 11.00pm ·         Price             : RM228+ (per person) inclusive of house pouring wine and beer (free flow)   CEDAR on 15 city-view restaurant and bar, with its impressive panoramic view of the Kuala Lumpur city skyline, is the perfect venue for diners seeking an unforgettable and exclusive dining experience this Christmas Eve. This year, the five-course Christmas Eve dinner menu presents a choice of main dishes: Best of Beef (beef fillet served with jus, potatoes, carrots and celeriac); Fish Pie Deluxe (prawns with cod and potatoes, served with velouté sauce and parsley); Crispy Duck Breast (duck breast served with red cabbage, bread dumplings and peach or plum sauce) or Butternut Ravioli (dumplings with gorgonzola, almonds, pickled onions and parmesan cheese).   Blue Sapphire-Themed New Year’s Eve Dinner and Countdown Party   New Year’s Eve Seafood Buffet Dinner ·         Venue                                     : Tonka Bean Café & Deli ·         Date                                : Monday, 31 December 2018 ·         Time                                : 6.30pm – 12.00 midnight ·         Price                                : RM168+ (per adult) / RM84+ (per child) ·         Dress Code Theme             : Blue sapphire   New Year’s Eve 5-Course Dinner ·         Venue                                     : CEDAR on 15 ·         Date                                : Monday, 31 December 2018 ·         Time                                : 6.30pm – 11.00pm ·         Price                                : RM228+ (per person) inclusive of house pouring wine and beer (free flow) ·         Dress Code Theme             : Blue sapphire   Countdown Party ·         Venue                                     : CEDAR on 15 Restaurant and Infinity Edge Pool ·         Date                                : Monday, 31 December 2018 ·         Time                                : 11.00pm – 1.00am ·         Price                                : RM88+ (per person) inclusive of: -2 glasses of house pouring wine/beer (at cedar on 15) or -2 glasses of house pouring wine (at the Infinity Edge Pool) ·         Dress Code Theme             : Blue sapphire   New Year’s Eve partygoers and diners need look no further than Impiana KLCC Hotel for a scrumptious New Year’s Eve dinner at CEDAR on 15 or Tonka Bean Café and Deli, followed by a swanky countdown party at cedar on 15 and the hotel’s infinity edge pool. All they need to do is come dressed to impress in their finest sapphire blue outfit. Diners may opt to kickstart the night with a delicious New Year’s Eve seafood buffet dinner at Tonka Bean Café and Deli. Besides feasting on the local and international buffet fare, seafood lovers will enjoy indulging in the selection of Oysters, Prawns, Crab Legs, Clams, Black Mussels, Sushi, Sashimi, Salmon, Butter Fish, Tuna and Octopus and three types of caviar with melba toast, blini and sour cream. Diners who prefer a served five-course dinner will find CEDAR on 15, with its elegant and modern setting, the perfect place to enjoy a New Year’s Eve dinner from sunset until 11.00pm. There is an opportunity to adjourn to the bar or infinity edge pool for the countdown party to usher in the new year and catch the New Year fireworks display. CEDAR on 15’s New Year’s Eve Dinner menu offers a few main course options: Poisson a la Paupiette (cod, lobster served with spinach, new potatoes and shrimp butter sauce); Fillet of Beef served with fondant potatoes, parsley root, kale and wild mushroom jus; Lamb served with artichoke, polenta, olives, paprika and lamb jus; or Vegetable Parcel (crispy filo with winter vegetables, peanut and coconut). For reservations and enquiries, call tel. +60 3 2147 1111 (extension 3320 / 3035) or e-mail: fnbsecretary.iklcc@impiana.com      Troika Sky Dining Here are the menus for the establishments at Troika Sky Dining Kuala Lumpur – Cantaloupe, Strato and Fuego.     Mr. Chew’s Chino Latino Bar and Brasserie Fritz    Ce La Vi Kuala Lumpur   Celebrate Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve at Ce La Vi Kuala Lumpur – the newest premium restaurant and bar in town! For more info or reservations, head over to http://kl.celavi.com/ or telephone +(60)3 27703360     Marini’s on 57 For more info, head over to https://www.facebook.com/marinis57/     Cielo For more info, head over to https://www.facebook.com/cielokualalumpur/       2OX For more info, head over to https://www.facebook.com/2OXKL/     Chez Gaston Bangsar   For more info, head over to https://www.facebook.com/chezgastonkl/     Hilton Kuching     Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort   For more info, head over to https://sofitel.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-9078-sofitel-bali-nusa-dua-beach-resort/index.shtml . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/05/05/ted-baker-spring-summer-2016-collection-at-klcc-fashion-week-2016/

Ted Baker Spring Summer 2016 Collection at KLCC Fashion Week 2016

[Fashion]   MHB’s Stephanie Lim and I headed over to Suria KLCC for the Ted Baker Spring Summer 2016 fashion show on 21st April 2016. The show was held in conjunction with the Suria KLCC Fashion Week 2016 and showcased Ted Baker’s latest Spring Summer womenswear and menswear collections. Attending the show was over 100 guests including media, celebrities, fashionistas and VIP customers who got to enjoy a live caricature drawing on exclusive Ted’s canvas bag, funky photo booth, sweet treats and Magnum ice cream.  Bernie Chan, the emcee for the Six-Star Style night kick-start the show with a lucky draw session, followed by models sporting the brand’s latest collection – “Six-Star Style” on the runway. The summer wears will make you want to travel to the Strawberry Islands, a fictional all-inclusive resort of the most charming kind, where visitors just happen to be dressed Ted to toe at all times. With prints being the trend of the season, the Six-Star Style collection channels sophistication from arty to thoroughly modern with geo detailing and sporty monochrome. This season, the new colour palette sees tones of bold orange, fresh mint and red, and new neutrals of monochrome and navy. For ladies, this season’s most luxurious showpieces include breath-taking printed lace twinsets and a delightful candyfloss-pink statement-making dress that comes artistically laid out with gold floral embroidery. For gents, Ted Baker has created geo prints and lightweight linens that can be paired with anything formal or checked formal.   Group photo of Peter Davis, Joanne Yew, Kiki Lee (Advertising & Promotions Manager of RSH Malaysia), Eileen Hah (Brand Manager of Ted Baker Malaysia), Denise Camellia, JC Chee and Shaarnaz Ahmad With MHB’s Stephanie Lim       More info at http://www.tedbaker.com/   FUJIFILM X-T10 The photos in this post were shot using the FUJIFILM X-T10. More info at http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x_t10/   With the gorgeous Joanne Yew of The Journey fame . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/01/19/samsung-galaxy-a8-2018-and-galaxy-a8-2018-launched-in-malaysia/

Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) and Galaxy A8+ (2018) Launched in Malaysia

[Tech & Gadgets] Samsung Malaysia Electronics launched the new Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) & A8+ (2018). (L-R):• Liew Kian Meng, Head of IT & Mobile Business, Samsung Malaysia Electronics• Yoonsoo Kim, President, Samsung Malaysia Electronics• Yoo Jin Hyun, Business Director, IT & Mobile Business, Samsung Malaysia Electronics Headed over to SkyBar in Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur on 17 January 2018 for Samsung Malaysia Electronics’ launch of its all new Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) and Galaxy A8+ (2018) smartphones. The new phones are designed for fun seekers to capture every moment brilliantly, and feature a Dual Front Camera and it is IP68-rated to protect itself from water and dust. “We are delighted to host a pool party to welcome 2018 and at the same time, reveal the new Samsung Galaxy A8 and Galaxy A8+! We understand that millennials today enjoy documenting and sharing their experiences on social media, so Galaxy A8 and A8+’s Dual Front Camera ensure all selfies captured – whether in or out of the water – are flawless; allowing users to readily upload and share their memories on social media. Selfie enthusiasts, Galaxy A8 and A8+ are made especially for you!” said Mr Yoonsoo Kim, President of Samsung Malaysia Electronics. Mr Yoonsoo Kim, President of Samsung Malaysia Electronics dropping the phone into the water to show its IP68 qualities The Malaysian synchronised swimming squad fished the phone out for him After which he took a selfie with them to show that it still works A first for Samsung, the Galaxy A8 (2018) and A8+ (2018) feature a Dual Front Camera to snap superior selfies. With the 16MP+8MP F1.9 Dual Front Camera, which is made up of two separate cameras, users can switch between the two to take the type of selfie they want – from close-ups to portrait shots with a clear and crisp background.  The Galaxy A8 (2018) and A8+ (2018)’s includes technology from Samsung’s flagship smartphone models, and includes the advanced Live Focus feature allows users to easily adjust the depth of field (for ‘bokeh’ effect) before or after the photo is taken. The advanced features of both the Galaxy A8 (2018) and A8+ (2018)’s front and rear cameras provide sharp images, even in low-light conditions with F1.9 and F1.7 aperture. The new devices also allow users to customise photos with fun options, from adding stickers or highlighting a dish with Food Mode. The 16MP F1.7 rear camera, is touted to provide crisp, detailed, and vibrant photos that are good enough to be shared with others as it is.  A very big plus point is that both smartphones are IP68 water and dust resistance (based on test conditions of submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes), and can withstand the elements, including sweat, rain, sand and dust, which allows users to snap underwater pool photos or answer calls in the rain. Shaky video footage is minimised with video digital image stabilisation (vDIS) technology, and with an added hyperlapse feature, users can now create time-lapse videos that can record, tell and share even longer stories.  Both the devices also allow users to glance through notifications thanks to the Always On Display, without unlocking the phone. Another useful function is Samsung Pay which makes payment simple, secure, and convenient – all it takes is one swipe and one fingerprint scan. The Galaxy A8 (2018) and A8+ (2018) are powered by 3,000mAh and 3,500 mAh batteries respectively, with 4GB / 6GB RAM memory and storage of 32GB and 64GB for both devices respectively. Not only that, other flagship-type features offered by Samsung’s two latest smartphones include Bixby, Dual Messenger and storage expansion via SD card slot. Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) and A8+ (2018) Product Specifications:   Galaxy A8 (2018) Galaxy A8+ (2018) Display 5.6-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED,1080×2220 6.0-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED,1080×2220 *Screen measured diagonally as a full rectangle without accounting for the rounded corners Camera Front: Dual Camera 16MP FF (F1.9) + 8MP (F1.9), Rear: 16MP PDAF (F1.7) Dimension 149.2 x 70.6 x 8.4 mm, 172g 159.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm, 191g AP Octa Core (2.2GHz Dual + 1.6GHz Hexa) Memory 4GB RAM, 32GB 6GB RAM, 64GB Battery 3,000mAh 3,500mAh Fast Charging / USB Type-C OS Android 7.1.1 Network LTE Cat. 11 Payment NFC, MST Connectivity Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/ac (2.4/5GHz), VHT80 256QAM, Bluetooth® v 5.0 (LE up to 2Mbps), ANT+, USB Type-C, NFC, Location (GPS, Glonass, BeiDou*)* BeiDou coverage may be limited. Sensors Accelerometer, Barometer, Fingerprint Sensor, Gyro Sensor, Geomagnetic Sensor, Hall Sensor, Proximity Sensor, RGB Light Sensor Audio MP3, M4A, 3GA, AAC, OGG, OGA, WAV, WMA, AMR, AWB, FLAC, MID, MIDI, XMF, MXMF, IMY, RTTTL, RTX, OTA Video MP4, M4V, 3GP, 3G2, WMV, ASF, AVI, FLV, MKV, WEBM The Galaxy A8 (2018) and Galaxy A8+ (2018) is available in Malaysia in Black, Gold and Orchid Gray at the recommended price of RM1,799 and RM2,499 respectively (inclusive of 6% GST). To celebrate the official launch of the Galaxy A8 (2018) and A8+ (2018) in Malaysia, Samsung is having an exclusive 3-day Early Bird Rewards promotion from 19th to 21st January 2018, where customers have the opportunity to receive a free 10,000 mAh Battery Pack and a free 64GB Memory Card with any purchase of Galaxy A8 (2018) or A8+ (2018) at all participating outlets, while stocks last. For more information, head over to http://www.samsung.com/my/offer/mobile-galaxy-a8/ For more information on the Galaxy A8 (2018) and Galaxy A8+ (2018), head over to http://www.samsung.com/my/smartphones/galaxy-a8-a530 and http://www.samsung.com/my/smartphones/galaxy-a8-a730   Photo credits: Samsung Malaysia Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/11/05/whisky-appreciation-evening-with-edrington-asiaeuro-malaysia/

Whisky Appreciation Evening With Edrington & AsiaEuro Malaysia

[Event] Whisky Appreciation Evening With Edrington & AsiaEuro Malaysia Right after registering we were served our first round of Macallan! Now that’s how every party should start! Drink University…now that’s a rather strange name for a club. But well with lots of Macallan flowing and pretty promoter girls who cares about the name. Now what we thought was going to be a rather formal sit-down whisky appreciation evening on 24 October 2013 turned out to be a full-blown party to mark AsiaEuro’s  official whisky distribution partnership with Edrington at the Drink University with sexy female water drummers, Dennis Lau on the violin, and a hot DJ spinning. The party featured cocktails such as the The Famous Grouse’s Famous Fling and Highland Park Old Fashioned, as well as The Macallan Perfect Serve. There was also a spread of canapes to go along with the drinks however as we came from our review atHugo’s on 6 (you can read about that here – https://timchew.net/2013/11/06/casual-dining-hugos-on-6-best-western-premier-dua-sentral/) we were pretty stuffed already. The Macallan Perfect Serve is a glass of Macallan served with an ice ball, crafted from The Macallan’s very own copper ice ball machine. The drink was inspired by the Japanese tradition of serving hand-carved ice with ultra-premium spirits. Macallan, Famous Grouse, and Highland Park are owned by Edrington and exclusively distributed by AsiaEuro in Malaysia. . The Three-Girl LED Water Drum Band gave a stunning performance! Dennis Lau was giving his usual energetic and upbeat performance! Andy and his partner in crime My partner in crime with Andy’s partner in crime! Lots of Macallan going around served by some cute promoter girls . Asiaeuro is one of the leading distributor of fine wines and spirits in Malaysia and you can obtain more info at http://www.asiaeurowines.com.my or http://www.edringtongroup.com . Flying Nomad’s Autumn/ Winter 2013 Collection Fashion Show Attended the show at Carcosa Seri Negara on 30 October 2013 which showcased Flying Nomad’s latest collection which combines a keen sense of adventure with a renewed fascination for the great outdoors, resulting in this season’s top colour trends reflecting the spirit of the wilderness, with nature-inspired hues like deep lichen green and emerald green taking centre stage. Flying Nomad Clothing Co. draws its inspiration from a quirky blend of modern and nostalgic prints and their collection includes apparel with bright accents against muted tones, earthy chocolaty colours, checkered prints and houndstooth prints forming the colour palette for its collection, Believing that style should never take a holiday, Flying Nomad Clothing Co, by Malaysia Airports (Niaga) Sdn Bhd, aims to provide a clothing range for travellers who are constantly on-the-go. . . Flying Nomad is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Kuching International Airport, Labuan Airport, Low Cost Carrier Terminal and coming soon at klia2 and Gateway@klia2. . After the show we got to enjoy a delicious buffet spread by Carcosa and I went straight for the scones and headed to the patio to enjoy the view and the cool after-crazy-KL-downpour air. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2013/07/03/review-nissan-almera-tuned-by-impul/

Test Drive – Nissan Almera Tuned by Impul

[Review] I attended the Nissan Almera launch back in October last year (you can read about that here – https://timchew.net/2012/10/31/nissan-almera-launched-in-malaysia/) and the nice folks at Edaran Tan Chong Motors decided to lend me the Nissan Almera tuned by Impul to test-drive for a weekend. The Nissan Almera is a B-segment locally assembled sedan and boasted class-leading cabin room and boot space for a car it’s size. Well it was time to put it to the test. . My model for this shoot is none other than MHB’s Wan Ting aka SnowXwhite The Nissan ALMERA is built on an all-new global “V” (versatile) platform which utilizes a lightweight yet rigid body. IMPUL Aerokit – The IMPUL front bumper spoiler, new radiator grille, side skirts, rear bumper spoiler and rear boot spoiler adds a very sporty and stylish appearance to the Almera. IMPUL Blast 2 Exhaust Muffler – Enjoy a low growl thanks to the IMPUL sports exhaust muffler. The IMPUL radiator grill instantly sets this baby apart! Tuned by IMPUL baby! IMPUL is the famous Japanese automotive aftermarket company founded by Nissan’s factory driver, Kazuyoshi Hoshino and exclusively produces aftermarket parts for Nissans, such as bodykits, engine components and wheels. LED Wing Mirror Signal Lights (optional accessory) halogen headlights Here’s what they look like in the dark! Very cool indeed! The rear view Sporty combination tail-lights IMPUL HS-06 Alloy Wheel (16”) – Looking very stylish in silver and black with a matte finish. The alloy materials and Super Cast process used by IMPUL decreases the weight of the wheels by 20% – 30%, while improving driving performance without compromising quality and safety. The road to my house has some sharp turns but the Almera didn’t complain at all. (Consumers can also choose to upgrade to a 17” IMPUL Aura SX-10 alloy wheel for a fee.) Powerplant & Transmission The Almera is powered by a 1.5 litre, 4-cylinder, In-line, DOHC with CVTC (Continuously Variable-Valve Timing Control) and Drive-by-Wire Technology. Max power is 102ps at 6,000rpm while max torque is 139Nm at 4,000rpm. The engine is either mated to a manual 5-speed gearbox (E variant) or auto 4-speed gearbox (V and VL variants). Suspension & Handling The front is independent MacPherson struts with stabilizer bar while the rear is torsion beam. (FYI the standard Almera comes with 15” steel rims with full cover (E variant) or 15” 7-spoke alloy rim (V and VL variants) with 185 / 65 R15 tyres. IMPUL Super Shock Suspension System – The system consists of shock absorbers and coil springs, which have been specially tuned by IMPUL engineers. The ride height is lowered by 30mm with increased lateral force support for more agile handling and distinct road contact. Safety The brakes are equipped with ABS, EBD and a brake assist system, while there are SRS airbags for the driver and front passenger. Now to the interior. Wan Ting very at home with the car I was surprised at the amount of leg room at the back. The driver’s seat was adjusted to accommodate my height (5′ 10″) and look at the remaining room at the back! Sport Pedal (A/T variants only) – optional accessory LED Stainless Steel Kicking Plant – something usually found on luxury cars – the stainless steel kicking plate protects the car’s interior and is lit by LEDs when the car lights are on. (optional accessory) Chrome door handles – V and VL variants only The centre multi-function display includes the radio which is also the multimedia navigation console that displayed the view from the rear view camera, and is also a DVD player which has iPod connectivity, USB and Bluetooth capabilities. The instrument panels at night Automatic aircon (VL variant only) I found this feature very very useful indeed! And the GPS navigation was handy too. Relatively easy to set the destination and the map was pretty up to date. The start/ stop button just adds to the coolness factor The instrument cluster also includes a Multi Information Display while the steering wheel has Illuminated Audio Controls. The boot is a spacious 490 litres with a wide open area capable of carrying up to 4 golf bags. . All in all I thought the Almera was good value for money and surprisingly roomy! Good for cruising around the city. 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 66,813.50 1.5 A/T 69,813.50 V 1.5 A/T 76,813.50 VL 1.5 A/T 79,813.50 The Nissan ALMERA is differentiated by the standard specification E, well equipped V & full specification VL and all come with a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first). 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. More info at http://www.nissan.com.my Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2017/12/28/hermes-re-opens-its-store-at-pavilion-kuala-lumpur/

Hermès re-opens its Store at Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur

[Luxury Fashion]   MHB’s Stephanie Lim and I headed over to the Hermès boutique in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur for its reopening on 14th December 2017. The newly renovated store has a total retail space of 254 square meters, and the new spacious layout works to present the richness of the Parisian house’s 16 metiers, and for the first time an area dedicated to the home universe. Under the artistic direction of Denis Montel, RDAI, the Parisian architectural agency, was responsible for the creation and opening of the space, as for all Hermès stores worldwide. Walking in, you’ll be welcomed by lots of natural light thanks to the glass back façade, which works to adds a cheery and warm ambience to the store. The lacquered metal square claustra, acts as a filter and extends from floor to ceiling, creating shadowing effects throughout the space breaking up and punctuating different sections. Through the main entrance, one encounters the house’s signature ex-libris set on a ‘Faubourg’ pattern stoneware mosaic floor contrasting with the deep brown teak floor evoking traditional Malaysian flooring. The discovery of Hermès craftsmanship and its exceptional know-how begins with a large space dedicated to women’s silk and on the right jewellery accessories and perfume. The men’s ready to wear, masculine silk and home collections are also on the same floor. Take the stairs at the back up to the second floor (or enter through the store’s second entrance on the top floor) and you’ll visit the leather, jewellery and watch departments, which also houses the equestrian collection, women’s ready to wear and a comfortable private VIP space at the back. The constant requirement for the finest quality has always been Hermès’ priority.  Since its establishment in 1837, six generations of enterprising and passionate artisans have contributed to spreading its values: a savoir-faire built on the application of highly precise and skilled crafts to the finest materials, the love for beautiful objects created to last over time and the spirit of constant innovation. A family owned company, Hermès is managed by Chief Executive Officer, Axel Dumas, and its artistic direction is led by Pierre-Alexis Dumas, both sixth generation family members. One interesting fact that was shared with us was that each and every store manager also acts as the “buyer” for the store, and thus is responsible for which products are available. This is to create a personalised service to cater to the store’s customers and clientele which differs based on geographical location. The newly renovated store also comes with some nifty features such as the hidden retractable handbag holder which is built into the display tables.        The Hermes boutique in Pavilion KL is located at: Lot 2.17.00, Level 2, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.    Telephone: +603-2142 0048 For more info, head over to http://www.hermes.com Photos shot with the Panasonic Lumix LX10. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2014/05/15/oppo-find-7-and-find-7a-launch/

Oppo Find 7 and Find 7A Launch

[Tech Event]   OPPO Electronics Corp. announced the debut of the flagship phone of the Find series, the Find 7 in Malaysia, on 7 May 2014 at a media and dealers launch at the Pullman Bangsar in Kuala Lumpur. This new device is OPPO’s first 4G/LTE smartphone that also supports Quad HD resolution and comes with a host of new features. The Find 7, which made its global entry to the market back in March 2014 in Beijing, and succeeds the Find 5. Building on the Find 5, the Find 7 was created with the user in mind whilst raising the bar on innovation in mobile technology. The OPPO Find 7 comes equipped with a 5.5-inch Quad HD display featuring Touch-on-Lens technology paired with Gorilla Glass 3, making the Find 7 screen tough and 40% stronger. The phone also comes equipped with the Pure Image 2.0, a hardware and software photography solution that enhances images taken by the 13 megapixel camera to 50-megapixel images. This “Ultra-HD” mode accomplishes this by taking ten photos at the back end with just one press of a button, and then combines the photos to create images perfect for high quality prints. Pure Image on the OPPO Find 7 includes six physical lenses, the latest Sony Stacked CMOS IMX214 sensor and f/2.0 wide aperture, providing user with crisp images. The Find 7 is built around a solid titanium-aluminum alloy frame, and includes some new technology, such as  the newly developed VOOC fast charging technology that shortens charging time, boosting the phone’s battery life to 75% within 30 minutes. This rapid charging technology also has a safety feature made up of five layers of thermal protective coating that prevents overheating while charging. For enhanced sound, there is the inclusion of the Technical GRAMMY Award winning MaxxAudio’s enhancement suite that greatly increases the dynamic range and frequency of the Find 7, providing crisp, high-quality sound. “Having just launched the brand in Malaysia back in February, we are very excited to introduce one of the most technologically advanced phones in our range, the Find 7. Continuing the tradition of quality design and craftsmanship in the Find series, the Find 7 utilizes top of the line technologies that aims to enhance the smartphone experience for all our customers,” commented William Fang, OPPO Electronics Chief Executive Officer.   There are two (2) variants of the Find 7 – the flagship Find 7 model. and the slightly lower spec but more affordable Find 7a. Both share a lot of common specs but the few specs that differ are outlined below:   Technical Specs Processor Find 7 – MSM8974AC 2.5GHz Quad-core CPU Find 7a – MSM8974AB 2.3GHz Quad-core CPU   Operating System Exclusively customized Color OS 1.2 based on the latest Android 4.3   Screen Find 7 – 5.5-inch, 2560×1440 pixels, 538ppi, LTPS Find 7a – 5.5-inch, 1920×1080 pixels, 403ppi, LTPS   Camera Front camera: 5MP, F2.0, 5P lens, Blue Glass Rear camera: 13MP, F2.0, 6P lens, Blue Glass   Storage Find 7 – 3GB LPDDR3 RAM, 32GB ROM, Up to 128GB Expandable TF card Find 7a – 2GB LPDDR3 RAM, 16GB ROM, Up to 128GB Expandable microSD card   Dimension & Weight Find 7 – 152.6 x 75 x 9.2mm, 173g Find 7a – 152.6 x 75 x 9.2mm, 170g   Battery Find 7 – 3000 mAh battery with VOOC Rapid charging Find 7A – 2800 mAh battery with VOOC rapid charging   Colours Midnight or white   The Find 7a  will retail at RM1,598.00 while the Find 7 will be selling at RM1,998.00 at authorised OPPO distributors, and will be available nationwide at the end of June 2014. More info at http://www.oppomobile.com.my/ or follow Oppo on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/malaysiaoppo Now here are more photos from the launch. Enjoy!     Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2019/09/28/petronas-launches-the-new-range-of-petronas-syntium-with-cooltech-with-a-special-appearance-by-lewis-hamilton/

Petronas Launches the New Range of Petronas Syntium with °Cooltech™ with a Special Appearance by Lewis Hamilton

[Automotive News]   Headed over to the Petronas Twin Towers on 24 Sept 2019 for PETRONAS Lubricants Marketing Malaysia’s (PLMM) launch of their new range of PETRONAS Syntium with °CoolTech™ lubricants formulated to fight against excessive engine heat for better engine performance and efficiency.   The range comprises the premium low-viscosity PETRONAS Syntium 7000 Ultimate Series featuring PETRONAS Syntium 7000 Hybrid with °CoolTech™, the company’s first oil for hybrid engines, marking PLMM’s entry into the fast-expanding hybrid vehicle market.  “The new range has been formulated from our experience working with the best in motorsports, the Formula One race, where optimum engine performance is key. In this regard, the °CoolTech™ technology has been developed to help cool critical engine parts so that the machine can run efficiently even when under pressure. Today, we are pleased to bring this technology developed from the track to Malaysian roads to benefit our everyday drivers,” said Dato’ Sri Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir, PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer and PETRONAS Vice President, Marketing, Downstream Business. Meeting the latest API SN PLUS Specification and protecting against Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI) for turbo charged direct injection gasoline powered vehicles, the other oils in the series include the new PETRONAS Syntium 7000 0W-16 with °CoolTech™, PETRONAS Syntium 7000 0W-20 with °CoolTech™, PETRONAS Syntium 3000 5W-30 and PETRONAS 800 5W-30 °CoolTech™. It was my first time being in one of the towers, and the experience was even more special with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Motorsport’s Formula One Driver and 5 time World Champion, Lewis Hamilton gracing the event on a pit-stop in Kuala Lumpur after the Singapore Grand Prix. Also present were PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer, Giuseppe D’Arrigo, as well as Chief Technology Officer, Eric Holthusen. “PETRONAS Syntium plays such a crucial role in the cooling of our engines and supports us in achieving results on track. The teamwork between our technical organisations has been outstanding, and it’s reassuring to know that we have the best and most reliable fluids for our engines. It makes it easier to stay focused on our ultimate goal and achieve the best result for the team on the race track,” said Lewis Hamilton. PETRONAS Syntium with °CoolTech™ technology is designed to cool critical engine parts for optimised engine performance, and uses technology derived from Petronas’ partnership with the successful Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Motorsport team which won the FIA Formula One™ World Constructors’ Championship over the last five years.   Formulated for modern driving conditions, PETRONAS Syntium with °CoolTech™ technology is developed with strong oil chains to defend against excessive engine-damaging heat, optimizing fuel efficiency and keeping engines cool so that drivers, too, can keep their cool. PLMM has been aggressively expanding its presence across Malaysia with PETRONAS brands now available at more than 1000 retail outlets and 3,000 independent workshops across the country.   For more information, head over to http://www.pli-petronas.com      Petronas Dagangan Berhad Launches New Mesra Redemption Portal    Headed over to Sunway Pyramid on 27 September 2019 for the launch of PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad’s (PDB) new Mesra redemption portal which expanded its network of merchants to over 81 brands, giving its card members the convenience of redeeming rewards easily and instantly, With this introduction, Mesra card members can now enjoy an enhanced and varied rewards redemption options beyond purchasing fuel and Kedai Mesra items. These include lifestyle rewards such as shopping, getaway, F&B, beauty and wellness products and services from brands such as Tealive, Baskin Robbins, TGV cinema, Legoland, AirAsia BIG, Sunway Lagoon, Inside Scoop, Llao Llao, La Juiceria and San Francisco Coffee, among others. Speaking at the launch, PDB’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Syed Zainal Abidin said, “We are excited to introduce the new Mesra redemption portal, which has been designed to provide our members the convenience and flexibility to manage their points, and redeem them digitally, anywhere and anytime. With the increased number of merchants, we are now the only loyalty card with the most number of brands for instant redemption and this means there is something for everyone, be it foodies, movie-goers, holiday-goers or shopaholics.” “Ultimately, we want to make it a seamless and rewarding journey for our customers, one that is easy and instant. Towards this end, we will continue to enhance our loyalty programme and expand our reward offerings so that our customers can enjoy a Redeem Like Never Before experience,” he added. The portal also enables cash top-up option for members who have insufficient Mesra points. All rewards redeemed will be in the form of e-vouchers where members need to only present them at merchant’s store. To find out more, visit the Mesra Rewards Festival at Sunway Pyramid from 27 to 29 September where you can sign up for free to become a member and instantly receive 200 Mesra points. All members will receive a token to participate in the Giant Capsule with over 1,000 of prizes to be won daily. Prizes comprising loyalty points from Mesra, Sunway Pals and Air Asia BIG including fuel voucher, PETRONAS merchandise, Dyson vacuum cleaner, Dibea vacuum cleaner, Google Home Mini, Samsung Galaxy Note 10 and VIVO S1 are up for grabs. Throughout the 3-day festival, there will also be a special Mesra Hour where lucky draws will be conducted. Winners get to redeem items with 100 Mesra points, including offers such as flight tickets and gadgets among others. To check out the Mesra redemption portal, logon to http://www.mymesra.com.my/mesrarewards       All images courtesy of Petronas. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2018/11/15/honor-partners-with-national-geographic-to-create-superior-night-photos-with-the-honor-8x/

Honor Partners with National Geographic to Create Superior Night Photos with the Honor 8X

[Technology & Gadgets] Honor Collaboration with Robbie Shone, National Geographic    Honor announced a collaboration with National Geographic on 9 November 2018 to publish articles by visual storyteller Robbie Shone on techniques for taking the best photos using a smartphone. An accomplished photographer with National Geographic, Robbie Shone is sharing his secrets for night-time photography over the partnership — demonstrating through his own work how users of Honor 8X can shoot amazing photos leveraging the phone’s industry-leading technology. The series, entitled “Brave The Night”, was announced on the National Geographic website for the launch of Honor 8X. In the inaugural article released on October 1, Robbie traveled to Hong Kong, where he took spectacular photos from the mountains to the city center. This is the first time Honor has partnered with National Geographic, and “Brave The Night” is providing a platform for new photos and stories in the coming weeks. From Robbie’s talented perspective, readers can learn first-hand the powerful capabilities Honor 8X enables for its users. In the spirit of promoting creative and inspirational photographs, Honor has also kicked off an online contest, #Honormade. Open now, individuals can submit their best day and night photos for a chance to win an Honor 8X smartphone, and to have their photos judged by Robbie Shone for display by National Geographic. You can participate in the #Honormade contest before 30 November 2018 at: www.hihonor.com/global/events/day-and-night/   Honor Collaboration with Robbie Shone, National Geographic   Equipped with dual-lens 20M + 2M, F/1.8 aperture rear camera and artificial intelligence (AI) which recognizes 22 different categories and 500 scenarios in real-time, Honor 8X takes beautiful photos in any environment. These features, and especially the innovative night shot, are showcased in the articles and photos from Robbie which are now available on National Geographic’s “Brave The Night” website. The website will also display the winning #Honormade submissions after the conclusion of the contest. George Zhao, President of Honor said, “Every smartphone user understands how important a camera is to their daily experience. For this reason, Honor offers an elite camera with Honor 8X, so that you can take the best photos regardless of where you are, or what time of day or night. We are very excited to partner with National Geographic for this campaign. With the “Brave The Night” series, Robbie Shone is showing the world all the amazing photos you can take when you have an Honor 8X smartphone in your hands.” Robbie Shone said, “Cave photography is my personal passion, and I’ve spent years experimenting and mastering the craft in low light situations. When I received the Honor 8X, I was impressed by its camera capabilities. It’s astounding how much technology they can build into this smartphone. I enjoyed finding creative ways to show off Honor 8X’s night shooting capabilities, and I was happy to share my experiences for National Geographic’s readers.” Honor 8X is available for purchase online at: www.hihonor.com/global/products/smartphone/honor8x/    Honor Collaboration with Robbie Shone, National Geographic . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2011/11/29/review-nissan-grand-livina-1-6l-tuned-by-impul/

Test Drive – Nissan Grand Livina 1.6L Tuned by Impul

[Review] As many of you know, I’m a person who likes cars and this has intensified further after working for TOPGEAR and Malaysian EVO magazines in the past. I particularly like hot hatches and sedans although every now and then I do test drive SUVs and MPVs. The nice folks over at Nissan Malaysia came a-calling and asked me if I wanted to test drive the 7-seater Nissan Grand Livina for the weekend. The Grand Livina? Isn’t that an MPV? Then they went on to mention that it was tuned by IMPUL and I duly accepted! An MPV tuned by IMPUL? This was going to be interesting… The Impul team has given a makeover to the Grand Livina and the front grille shows just that with the Impul logo in place of the Nissan logo. The Impul aerokit and lowered ride height gives the Grand Livina a really sporty and aggresive look The swept back headlamps add to the dynamic design Impul bodyart on the door panels! Impul aerokit skirting all around which includes the rear wing spoiler The Nissan logo is retained at the rear But the Impul logo is very obvious too! The stainless steel exhaust muffler is part of the Impul package too and adds a low rumbling note to the drive! Signal lamps on the wing mirrors The Impul package departs from the usual 15″ rims replacing them with the 17″ Impul Aura SX-10 rims and 205/45 R17 tyres instead which definitely offer more grip and better handling. Powerplant & Transmission This Grand Livina is powered by a 1.6L DOHC, 16-Valve, 4-Cylinder in-line engine with drive-by-wire technology which puts out 105 horses and has a maximum torque of 150Nm at 4,400 rpm. The transmission is a 5-speed manual although it’s also available in a 4-speed electronically controlled 4-speed automatic with lock-up torque converter version. Suspension & Handling The front is independent MacPherson struts with stabilizer bar while the rear is torsion beam. (FYI the standard Grand Livina comes with 15” alloy rims utilizing 185/65 R15 tyres) The suspension is relatively stiff which provides a great ride but not at a total expense of comfort. Body roll is barely noticeable and it’s the result of the Impul suspension system which consists of upgraded shock absorbers and springs that lower the ride-height by 25mm. The Grand Livina uses a monocoque body which is lightweight and has high rigidity resulting in better handling of the vehicle. Safety The brakes are equipped with ABS, EBD and a brake assist system, while there are SRS airbags for the driver and front passenger. Now to the interior. The interior is roomy which is especially useful for bigger people such as myself Ample leg room for the passengers See the strap hanging down from the seats (which by the way can be adjusted into a reclining position for the comfort of the passengers)? One simple tug and you can fold down the last row of seats to make room for luggage. You can even fold down the centre row of seats if you have large size items The dash and centre console is pretty standard The meters were pretty sporty though The radio control are easily within reach of the driver The test unit I was given to drive had the autograph of Impul President Mr. Kazuyoshi Hoshino, the former Formula One racer and now boss of Team Calsonic Impul. Coolness!!! Well definitely an interesting vehicle and I would say it’s suitable for the family man/ young mommy who’s looking for a more spirited drive which is something you won’t get from the normal MPV. Who says you can’t be a parent and look cool at the same time? The Impul package will set you back RM10,700.00 on top of the price of the Grand Livina which is: 1.6L (Manual) Comfort – RM97,500.00 1.6L (Auto) Comfort – RM100,500.00 1.8L (Auto) – RM109,500.00 *prices are on-the-road with insurance (Peninsular Malaysia) and comes with a 3-year or 100,000km warranty (whichever comes first) More info at http://www.nissan.com.my Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2023/05/08/samsung-galaxy-a34-5g-camera-review/

Samsung Galaxy A34 5G Camera Review

A photo along the bustling Jalan Bukit Bintang in downtown Kuala Lumpur shot with the normal camera mode to set the nighttime baseline If you haven’t yet read my feature regarding the launch of the Samsung Galaxy A34 5G in Malaysia, you can do so here – https://timchew.net/2023/04/01/samsung-galaxy-a54-5g-and-a34-5g-now-available-for-pre-order-in-malaysia/ This feature only includes the photos taken with the phone during some events that I attended recently utilising various camera settings and modes. None of the photos have been altered or edited in any way. Now I must remind you that the Galaxy A34 is in Samsung’s A range of smartphones). Yes, this model is the second highest spec offering in the A range (in the absence of a clearly defined mid-tier range, I personally regard the Galaxy A34 and A54 to be Samsung’s mid-tier offerings) but still a RM1,xxx (below RM2,000) range phone therefore don’t expect the performance of the cameras to be anything near the flagship S series (the Galaxy S23 Ultra has amazing cameras). If you’re serious about photography or gaming then get a Galaxy S series smartphone. Shot along Jalan Bukit Bintang. Pretty crisp and clear during the daytime which is quite expected of most smartphones these days. But the real test of a camera is in low light conditions. A photo along Jalan Bukit Bintang this time closer to Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and shot using the Night mode which I found to be a tad too bright therefore this was the only photo I shot using the Night mode. (Some post-editing to increase the contrast should easily fix this.) Brought the phone along with me to the Malaysia Auto Show 2023. The halls were well lit and the camera focus was spot on. Proton 40th anniversary celebration and launch of the Proton X90 by our right honorable Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. I was seated in the media section 6 rows from the stage Shot this using 2x on normal mode closer to the stage during the photo op Our right honorable Prime Minister in the driver’s seat checking out the latest model by Proton. Wished that I had the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s powerful tele cam to zoom in on our PM (hint hint Samsung Malaysia). Hennessy X.O x Kim Jones event at Pavilion Bukit Jalil. The lighting was pretty good but I had to deal with strobe lights. Using the Portrait mode The Portrait mode allows you to apply various filters when you post-edit like this subject colour filter which helps your subject stand out This was another cool Portrait filter which is very useful when the background is very dirty like the Mortlach tasting that I attended At the small park at The Stories of Taman Tunku Enjoying a cold Guinness on a hot day. Shot using portrait mode. Captured this photo using ambient light. Dinner at Graze, Hilton Kuala Lumpur Shot using 2x on normal mode The colours are quite vibrant thanks to the AI. I had a video light with me to assist with additional lighting during the food shots as the restaurant had a dim and romantic ambiance. Shot using 2x zoom on the normal mode Shot using 2x zoom on the normal mode I captured dinner photos during a recent social media content creation shoot at an Italian restaurant. Our principal photographer Andy Kho brought along his video lights so the lighting was adequate. Shot this on normal mode with 2x zoom. The AI recognized this as food and bumped up the colour vibrancy saving me the effort to post edit. Overall I would say that the cameras on the Galaxy A34 5G are more than adequate for day to day use. With a little editing, you could probably make the photos look even better. . Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...

https://timchew.net/2016/05/07/dior-pre-fall-fall-2016-ready-to-wear/

Dior Pre Fall/ Fall 2016 Ready To Wear

[Luxury Fashion]   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   For more info, head over to http://www.dior.com/ Images courtesy of Dior Malaysia. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailWhatsAppLike this:Like Loading...