Categories
Tourism Malaysia

20 Must-Have Souvenirs from Malaysia

If you are anything like me,
you will look for the MOST interesting, out-of-the-ordinary souvenir from
places you’ve been.

It used to be very
conventional, like postcards, keychains, decorative plates and the like but
these stuff take up space and require some kind of maintenance as years go by.

The novelty of a souvenir has
changed, and it is no longer something that you show off as a statement of
“I’ve been there!” It has evolved into something else, where we want to share
with our loved ones back home a little piece of the adventure, so to speak.

So, here’s my take on some of
the things that you just HAVE to take back with you:

#1 – If
you travel to the state of Melaka,
then look out for the dainty Nyonya beaded
slippers
. They may not be the most practical footwear, but then again, they
ARE unique, and quite fancy!

Nyonya Beaded Slippers and Embroidered Kebaya Top

#2 – If
you got yourself that beaded slipper, then you just HAVE to bring back a
traditional kebaya top! The intricately-embroidered tops are a must-have in
any wardrobe.

#3
#4
– If you have a passion for cooking, and are always on
the hunt for that ‘umami’ flavor, bring back some shrimp paste, or belacan,
and if you’re brave enough, cencalok. Cencalok is a condiment made
of fermented small shrimps or krill, and is usually served together with sliced
chillies, finely sliced shallots and lime juice.

Bottom – A stall selling belacan and cencalok

#5
–  Look out also for the sticky coconut
‘cakes’, or dodol, available in a variety of flavours including pandan and durian.

#6
Moving further South to Johor, you can visit the herb farm along the way and
get yourself some stingless bee honey
or madu kelulut. Stingless bee honey is  twice as nutritious as ordinary honey,
according to the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI).

#7 – A
trip to Johor would be meaningless without bringing back the mandatory 434 Coffee. Malaysian Coffee a.k.a
Kopi-O is special in color, flavor and taste, thanks to its special roasting
technique and recipe that commonly includes margarine and sugar as ingredients.
It has been long enjoyed by the locals and also is popular among coffee lovers
in South East Asia. While the sweet, hot beverage may take some getting used to
for those who are used to taking it black, you will definitely fall in love
with it by the time you sip the last drop.

#8 – If
you travel to the north of the Peninsula, then Penang will be one of the places for the best souvenirs. The
Chowrasta Market will be a good place to start, where you can get nutmeg-based products. More than just a
spice, you can get massage oils, ointments and even candy made from nutmeg.

Nutmeg-based products

#9
Another product of Penang that is worth bringing home is Tambun biscuits, or Tau
Sar Pneah
. This delicacy is a mixture of sweet and savoury, and is flaky
and soft at the same time. Traditionally, it is made from wheat flour, sugar,
green bean paste, fried onions, lard and salt. However, there are many
available in the market which are lard-free to cater for the Muslim market.

#10
Pickled fruits are also a must-buy
when one visits Penang. It is a popular souvenir especially among Malaysians. Among
the most well-known is from Pak Ali’s,
best known for its distinct aroma and taste. They claim to use apple cider
vinegar and honey in the pickling process, which sets them apart from the rest.

#11
– Also known as the Food Paradise of Malaysia, especially Indian food, you can always
bring back a mix of your favourite spices
so that you can replicate the dish back home. Head to Little India in George Town, and you’ll be
spilt for choice!

Packed dry spices or ready-cooked pastes to bring home

#12
– If you are into White Coffee, then
by all means, buy a pack or two to bring home. For those who don’t know, the
coffee beans used to produce white coffee are not white. Instead, coffee beans
are roasted with palm oil margarine, ground, brewed and served with
sweetened condensed milk. The drink gets its color from the milk that is
used. 

There’s even Durian Coffee!

If
you are in Kuala Lumpur, or any other major city in Malaysia, the following
suggestions are for you.

#13
– Malaysia batik or songket are also great souvenirs to take home. These
hand-crafted textiles are versatile and can be made into clothing, soft
furnishings and even wall decorations. Malaysian batik differs from others in
the region in terms of design and motif, as well as technique.

Batik and songket

#14
– A fan of durian? You may not be
able to bring back the fruit, but there are a whole multitude of products made
from the King of Fruits available in most supermarkets, and packed safe for
your journey home. There’s durian chocolates, cakes and even coffee!

#15
– Believe it or not, instant noodles!
Seriously. The flavours available out there is UNBELIEVABLE! Even if you might
not buy them, it’ll still be nice to walk into a supermarket and browse the
aisle. You will be amazed at the array of choices you have! Locals enjoy curry
flavor, but there’s also a whole array of flavor combinations that might peak
your curiosity.

#16
BOH tea is one of Cameron
Highland’s product that is worth bringing home, too. BOH Plantations Sdn Bhd is
the largest black tea manufacturer in Malaysia, with both domestic and
international distribution owned by BOH Plantations Sdn Bhd.

#17
Asian drinks. I kid you not! There
are fizzy and non-fizzy versions, in all imaginable flavours and combinations.
From winter melon to passionfruit, pear and ginseng to watermelon and lychee,
feel free to indulge!

#18
– Another one of the things that will sound weird, but go try (and buy!) 100 Plus. 100 Plus is the first thirst-quenching, isotonic beverage to be
launched in Malaysia in 1983. It is caffeine-free, specially formulated to help
restore what the body has lost during physical exertion and rehydrate the body
to its optimal hydration balance. Its unique formula combines fluids,
carbohydrates and electrolytes for quick and efficient absorption of fluids
into the body.

#19 – Pewter goods are also a favourite among tourists. The best
place to get your pewter items are of course from Royal Selangor Pewter,
located in Kuala Lumpur. Royal Selangor International Sdn Bhd is a Malaysian pewter
manufacturer and retailer, the largest of its type in the world.

#20
Adopt and animal! While you cannot
bring the animal home with you, you have at least left a piece of yourself
here, and helped conserve a little bit of Malaysia for our future generations.
A lot of programs are available, and offered, online where you can adopt a
tiger, elephant, turtle, even an orangutan, and receive a certificate and
regular updates on your ‘child’.

Categories
Malaysia Travel Guide

10 Things To Do In and Around Miri

These are some of the top things to do in Miri. The city is Sarawak’s second largest city and the gateway to the state’s fascinating northeast region.

1.Meet The People

A short flight from Miri brings you to Bario, gateway to the Kelabit Highlands, home to the Kelabit people and their large, well preserved longhouses.  Miri is also connected by Twin Otter service to Ba’kelalan, a cluster of seven Lun Bawang villages famous for their orchards and organic vegetables.

things to do miri

Lun Bawang Festival (Irau Aco)

sarawak-borneo-people-lun-bawang-bamboo-band

2. Go For A Walk

Stroll through Miri Old Town, crammed with shops selling all manner of fascinating goods, taking in the Fish Market and the Tua Pek Kong Temple.  Visit Lambir Hills National Park, probably the world’s most complex and diverse forest ecosystem, for a selection of jungle trekking trails to suit every ability.

Gunung Mulu National Park, famous for its extensive cave systems also offers some spectacular trekking trails, including the demanding yet incredibly rewarding Summit Trek and Pinnacles Trail and the historic Headhunters Trail.

The remote Kelabit Highlands has a wide selection of trails, from half-day strolls in and around Bario to week-long expeditions, staying in remote longhouses, passing by ancient megaliths, camping out in the rainforest and ascending the rugged peaks of Pulong Tau National Park.

Sarawak Borneo Miri Lambir Hills National Park

Mulu Clear water cave

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3. Wildlife Encounters

Visit the caves of Niah National Park to view remarkable cave fauna, watch an amazing bat exodus and find your way back by the light of luminous mushrooms.  Head for Kuala Sibuti for an evening of crocodile spotting and firefly watching.

The Bat Observatory at Gunung Mulu National Park provides a grandstand view of one of nature’s natural wonders, while the world’s longest canopy walkway showcases the birds and plants of the rainforest canopy walkway showcases the birds and plants of the rainforest canopy.  Spend a night at Loagan Bunut National Park, with its incredible shrinking lake ecosystem and a resident population of Bornean gibbons, as well as hundreds of bird, reptile and small mammal species.

Niah National Park

a-u-bagly_hipposideros-diadema-with-pup_cave-roost-mulu-bat

mulu-frog

4. Take To The Water

Charter an express boat from Kuala Baram brings you to the upriver town of Marudi, gateway to Ulu Baram.  If you have the time, and weather conditions permitting, you can travel from Marudi by express boat and longboat to some of the remotest villages and longhouses in Sarawak, home to various Orang Ulu communities including Kayans, Kenyahs, and even nomadic Penans.

Things to do miri

The Panoramic view of Sela’an Kayan village, Ulu Baram

5. Underground Sarawak

Visit the caves of Niah National Park, settled by modern humans for over 40,000 years and one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.  The Great Cave has one of the world’s largest cave mouths, a fascinating cave ecosystem and you can watch the birds nest collectors at work.  The Padang, where a shaft of light pierces the rear of the cave, is perfect for photo ops.  The Adjacent Painted Cave is the site of Niah’s famous cave paintings.  Leave the Great Cave around sunset, to see the nightly “changing of the guard”.  Two great living clouds intermingle in the sky as hundreds of thousand of swiftlets return to their nests, whilst a similar number of bats fly out to forage in the forest.

Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is most famous for its limestone cave systems, including the world’s largest chamber, the world’s largest cave passsage and the longest cave in Southeast Asia.

Niah National Park

Mulu Sarawak | A World Heritage Site

DekatJe Mulu Puncak Borneo

6. Underwater Sarawak

Miri is fast becoming a popular dive destination, due to the 22 pristine patch reefs that make up the Miri-Sibuti Reef Marine Park, lying at depths from 7 to 30 metres.  The best time to dive is March to September, with average visibility around 30 metres, but you can expect at least 10 metres visibility all year round.  Hard and soft corals cover the entire reefs, with abundant gorgonians, sea-whips,  anemones, sponges and crinoids.  There are also some interesting wreck dives in quite shallow water, perfect for a first wreck diving experience.

Most of the best dive sites are at depths between 18 and 30 metres, so EANx Nitrox Diver and PADI advanced Open Water ratings are highly recommended.  Bonus activities include whale shark spotting (in season).

7. Food and Drink

Miri has similar culinary selection to Kuching, although with its seafront location the seafood is possibly even fresher.  Inland, be tempted by the fresh jungle produce and organically grown fruits and vegetables prepared by the Kelabit and Lun Bawang people of the northern highlands, served with the unique fine-grained Bario rice, In the upriver Orang Ulu longhouses, enjoy tasty wild boar, free range chicken and exotic river fish served with glass of borak (Orang Ulu rice wine)

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8. Culture Heritage

Canada Hill not only offers excellent views of Miri and the surrounding area, it is also home to Oil Well No. 1, known as the “grand old lady,”  the first well to strike oil in Sarawak in 1910.  The adjacent Petroleum Museum traces the history and development of the oil and gas industries in Malaysia.  Back in town, visit the impressive and atmospheric San Ching Tian Temple, the largest Taoist temple in Southeast Asia.  If you are heading for Niah National Park, make sure to visit the fascinating Niah Archaeological Museum, tracing 40,000 years of human settlement at Niah.

Canada Hill, Miri, Sarawak

Niah National Park

9. Shopping

Miri Handicraft Centre showcases the ethnic arts and crafts of northern Sarawak.  Stalls are run by the producers, and craftspeople can often be viewed at work here.  items on sale include Penan mats and basketry.  Orang Ulu beadwork and woodcravings.  Miri’s Tamu Muhibbah is a colourful native market selling exotic fruits and vegetables, handicrafts and produce from upriver areas, including fragrant Bario rice, and great photo opportunities.

Exhibitionhandicraft Miri

Exhibitionhandicraft Miri

sarawak-malaysia-borneo-limbang-Bisaya-Babulang-festival-handicraft-exhibition

10. Festivals Celebrations

Borneo Jazz: One of the top jazz festivals in the region, attracting top jazz and blues performers from around the world.

Pesta Nukenen Bario (Bario Food Festival): The world’s most exclusive food festival celebrates the unique food, farming, forest and cultural heritage of the Kelabut Highlands.

Exuberance festival goers posing for the photographer

visit sarawak malaysia borneo miri borneo jazz 2014 andy kho

 

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Categories
Tourism Malaysia

TOP HOTELS IN MALAYSIA THAT TRANSPORT YOU TO A DIFFERENT WORLD

Holidays are a way to get away from the routine and
familiar. That’s why when we travel, we sometimes catch ourselves doing things
we wouldn’t normally do back home. We’re more adventurous, aren’t we, when we’re
on the road travelling. There’s a change of scenery, we’re surrounded by
strange cultures, the food is different, etc. In such an environment, we find
ourselves opening up to new experiences – we try the local food, we get out of
our comfort zone and speak to the locals, we participate in their traditions,
and more.

A romantic holiday at Colmar Tropicale, oui?

Similarly, when we check ourselves into a hotel, wouldn’t it
be nice to be surrounded by a fresh change of scene? Of course, the standard
hotels have all the comforts we could ever want, but how about passing up on
that spick and span hotel experience and jump in to a whole new “hotel”
environment?

Kids will just love to be kids at Legoland Hotel

Thematic hotels abound in Malaysia and it’s a great way to get out of our comfort zone to try something new. For kids, surely they would love the Legoland Hotel in Johor to relive their love for these iconic play bricks. Or how about Jen Hotel, also in Johor, where we hear you can check into a Hello Kitty-inspired room? Feeling a little bit French? Colmar Tropicale transports you to a Parisienne holiday in the tropics!

Love the Sanrio characters? Check into this cute Hello Kitty room at Jen Hotel!

Well, read on to see our top picks of unusual and themed accommodations that will definitely give you a fresh take on your holiday in Malaysia!

Tiarasa Escapes, Janda Baik, Pahang

Tiarasa Escapes is glamping extraordinaire for folks who want to be near nature but have issues with creepy crawlies. Rest assured that this property will put you up in exclusive tented villas surrounded by thick rainforest in the hills of Pahang…and pamper you while you are there with in-room comforts such as free-standing bathtubs, luxurious bedspreads and comfortable pillows.

Think of picnics by the bubbling brook, evening campfires to roast your marshmallows, stargazings at night, moonlight cinemas and morning walks amid the cool highland mist. Here’s where you can be the luxe-version of your Indiana Jones!

The Prestige Hotel, Penang

If you love a little magic in your life, then book a room at The Prestige Hotel in Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage enclave, but don’t mistake it as simply another Victorian heritage hotel.

Light, space and lines create unique optical illusions at Victorian-styled The Prestige

So inspired was the designer of the hotel, Colin Seah of Ministry of Design, with Christopher Nolan’s 2006 film, “The Prestige” about rival magicians in the Victorian era, that he introduced elements of optical illusion throughout the property. Take for instance the “levitating” bed that seems to float in the middle of the room, hidden doors that lead to pantries, and the piece-de-resistance of the room — the custom-designed shower and wardrobe enclosure, supposedly harking back to Houdini’s escape box!

Through subtle and clever use of light and space, geometric lines and repeated patterns, the designer leads guests to experience a little magic during their stay, so that nothing is ever quite what it seems!

Hard Rock Hotel, Desaru Coast, Johor

Fancy yourself a rockstar? Then, you’ll dig staying at the newly-opened Hard Rock Hotel in Desaru Coast, Johor. The international brand of property is renowned for its rockin’ hospitality. Check into their Rock Star Suite for some top-class Hollywood star treatment — enjoy in-room plush Sleep Like a Rock bedding, Bose sound system, and even a 15-ball American City ARAMITH 7 ft Pool Table. Pair that up with a personal concierge to meet your every whim and fancy, and you’ll have a rocking good time for sure!

Get ready to rock your holiday at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Don’t forget to explore the hotel’s Memorabilia Gallery to get you that bit closer to the rich and famous of Hollywood. On display are some of the greatest rock memorabilia, whether you’re a rocker who loves The Rolling Stones or a Rihanna fangirl!

Tanjong Jara Resort, Dungun, Terengganu

If you’re an urban dweller used to braving traffic jams and air pollution, why not retire to the east coast countryside of Malaysia and enjoy a change of pace in life? Get a room at Tanjong Jara Resort and enjoy the tranquility of this property, inspired by 17th century Malay palaces with a layout that makes you feel like you are in a typical Malay village.

Enjoy the tranquil east coast village lifestyle at the luxurious Tanjong Jara Resort

The genuine countryside charm is so authentic, even the staff that serve you are actually drawn from the local villages, who truly embody the gentle Malay art of service and hospitality. Sleep in luxuriously-appointed wooden villas, wake up to a traditional Malay breakfast, stroll along the beautiful beach, and enjoy local folk games in the afternoons. If that’s not enough, indulge in traditional beauty treatments at their Spa Village — there’s one couple’s treatment that last half a day where we hear you’ll be treated like Kings and Queens!

The Culvert, Kuching, Sarawak

Who would ever think that refurbished concrete culverts would make a cosy hotel room…well, the owners of The Culvert thought it would be unique to transform these huge cylinders of concrete and galvanised steel into rooms, and so they did! Don’t worry, you’ll still get to sleep in comfortable beds, have access to en-suite baths and even soak yourself in the free-standing bath tubs! Download Crack Softwares

Beautiful sunset view at The Culvert in Kuching

On a patch of land nestled in the dense flora and undergrowth of Santubong, Kuching is this dreamy and relaxing resort that will melt away your stress. Enjoy views of the iconic Mount Santubong in the background, and frolic in the private beach nearby. Outfitted with eco-friendly room designs and an array of facilities offering adventure and relaxation, this Kuching hotel resort promises to take you on a cultural journey of Sarawak’s rainforests and rejuvenate your weary soul.

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

TOP HOTELS IN MALAYSIA THAT TRANSPORT YOU TO A DIFFERENT WORLD

Holidays are a way to get away from the routine and
familiar. That’s why when we travel, we sometimes catch ourselves doing things
we wouldn’t normally do back home. We’re more adventurous, aren’t we, when we’re
on the road travelling. There’s a change of scenery, we’re surrounded by
strange cultures, the food is different, etc. In such an environment, we find
ourselves opening up to new experiences – we try the local food, we get out of
our comfort zone and speak to the locals, we participate in their traditions,
and more.

A romantic holiday at Colmar Tropicale, oui?

Similarly, when we check ourselves into a hotel, wouldn’t it
be nice to be surrounded by a fresh change of scene? Of course, the standard
hotels have all the comforts we could ever want, but how about passing up on
that spick and span hotel experience and jump in to a whole new “hotel”
environment?

Kids will just love to be kids at Legoland Hotel

Thematic hotels abound in Malaysia and it’s a great way to get out of our comfort zone to try something new. For kids, surely they would love the Legoland Hotel in Johor to relive their love for these iconic play bricks. Or how about Jen Hotel, also in Johor, where we hear you can check into a Hello Kitty-inspired room? Feeling a little bit French? Colmar Tropicale transports you to a Parisienne holiday in the tropics!

Love the Sanrio characters? Check into this cute Hello Kitty room at Jen Hotel!

Well, read on to see our top picks of unusual and themed accommodations that will definitely give you a fresh take on your holiday in Malaysia!

Tiarasa Escapes, Janda Baik, Pahang

Tiarasa Escapes is glamping extraordinaire for folks who want to be near nature but have issues with creepy crawlies. Rest assured that this property will put you up in exclusive tented villas surrounded by thick rainforest in the hills of Pahang…and pamper you while you are there with in-room comforts such as free-standing bathtubs, luxurious bedspreads and comfortable pillows.

Think of picnics by the bubbling brook, evening campfires to roast your marshmallows, stargazings at night, moonlight cinemas and morning walks amid the cool highland mist. Here’s where you can be the luxe-version of your Indiana Jones!

The Prestige Hotel, Penang

If you love a little magic in your life, then book a room at The Prestige Hotel in Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage enclave, but don’t mistake it as simply another Victorian heritage hotel.

Light, space and lines create unique optical illusions at Victorian-styled The Prestige

So inspired was the designer of the hotel, Colin Seah of Ministry of Design, with Christopher Nolan’s 2006 film, “The Prestige” about rival magicians in the Victorian era, that he introduced elements of optical illusion throughout the property. Take for instance the “levitating” bed that seems to float in the middle of the room, hidden doors that lead to pantries, and the piece-de-resistance of the room — the custom-designed shower and wardrobe enclosure, supposedly harking back to Houdini’s escape box!

Through subtle and clever use of light and space, geometric lines and repeated patterns, the designer leads guests to experience a little magic during their stay, so that nothing is ever quite what it seems!

Hard Rock Hotel, Desaru Coast, Johor

Fancy yourself a rockstar? Then, you’ll dig staying at the newly-opened Hard Rock Hotel in Desaru Coast, Johor. The international brand of property is renowned for its rockin’ hospitality. Check into their Rock Star Suite for some top-class Hollywood star treatment — enjoy in-room plush Sleep Like a Rock bedding, Bose sound system, and even a 15-ball American City ARAMITH 7 ft Pool Table. Pair that up with a personal concierge to meet your every whim and fancy, and you’ll have a rocking good time for sure!

Get ready to rock your holiday at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Don’t forget to explore the hotel’s Memorabilia Gallery to get you that bit closer to the rich and famous of Hollywood. On display are some of the greatest rock memorabilia, whether you’re a rocker who loves The Rolling Stones or a Rihanna fangirl!

Tanjong Jara Resort, Dungun, Terengganu

If you’re an urban dweller used to braving traffic jams and air pollution, why not retire to the east coast countryside of Malaysia and enjoy a change of pace in life? Get a room at Tanjong Jara Resort and enjoy the tranquility of this property, inspired by 17th century Malay palaces with a layout that makes you feel like you are in a typical Malay village.

Enjoy the tranquil east coast village lifestyle at the luxurious Tanjong Jara Resort

The genuine countryside charm is so authentic, even the staff that serve you are actually drawn from the local villages, who truly embody the gentle Malay art of service and hospitality. Sleep in luxuriously-appointed wooden villas, wake up to a traditional Malay breakfast, stroll along the beautiful beach, and enjoy local folk games in the afternoons. If that’s not enough, indulge in traditional beauty treatments at their Spa Village — there’s one couple’s treatment that last half a day where we hear you’ll be treated like Kings and Queens!

The Culvert, Kuching, Sarawak

Who would ever think that refurbished concrete culverts would make a cosy hotel room…well, the owners of The Culvert thought it would be unique to transform these huge cylinders of concrete and galvanised steel into rooms, and so they did! Don’t worry, you’ll still get to sleep in comfortable beds, have access to en-suite baths and even soak yourself in the free-standing bath tubs!

Beautiful sunset view at The Culvert in Kuching

On a patch of land nestled in the dense flora and undergrowth of Santubong, Kuching is this dreamy and relaxing resort that will melt away your stress. Enjoy views of the iconic Mount Santubong in the background, and frolic in the private beach nearby. Outfitted with eco-friendly room designs and an array of facilities offering adventure and relaxation, this Kuching hotel resort promises to take you on a cultural journey of Sarawak’s rainforests and rejuvenate your weary soul.

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

6 Awesome Reasons to Connect with The LINC KL, Malaysia’s Newest Shopping Mall

For those visiting Kuala Lumpur, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s latest lifestyle shopping mall with a difference. It’s hard to really categorise The LINC KL, but we love its concept of a very green and organic retail space. Here’s where to head when you want to break away from the urban hustle. Here’s where to escape when you want to avoid the rush and lounge a little. Here’s a little sanctuary with breathing space, natural light, trees and quirky, unique, specialized retail therapy.

What do we like about The LINC KL? Everything! But here’s a sneak peak of the gems you’ll find there:

Bean Brothers:

If you love coffee, then this will probably be your cup of tea! Bean Brothers is a coffee chain that’s popular in Korea. They’ve opened up a new outlet in Kuala Lumpur and are ready to serve city folks here at their concept coffee bar. They have two signature espresso blends – Black Suit which is a Brazilian Colombian blend that’s strong with chocolatey notes, while the Velvet White is made with Ethiopian beans with a slightly fruitier finish. Enjoy your coffee with any of their signature dishes (pastas, Big Breakfasts, finger food and desserts) in their indoor and outdoor seating areas that are filled with plants and light. A great lounging place to enjoy good coffee!

Frangipani Bulk:

With the eco-trend gaining traction worldwide, you can start your own plastic-free journey at Frangipani Bulk. It is a one-stop shop for reusable, sustainable, eco-friendly goods. What do they have? Cutleries (your eco-friendly coffee cup, straws, organic beeswax wraps), bath and body products (soaps, toothpaste, etc.), cereals, nuts, seeds, honey, flour, pasta, household cleaning products, tea, coffee, and more.  Some of the items are Malaysian-made and would make great gifts for tourists to bring home as souvenirs. Remember to bring your own shopping bags and containers when shopping here!

Ben’s Independent Grocer:

Ben’s Independent Grocer (B.I.G.) isnt’ just a supermarket to get your groceries. Nope! It’s a one-stop eat, drink and shop outlet for those who love food – from buying fresh ingredients, to preparing meals, to savouring the appetizing outcomes. The layout of the supermarket has themed sections such as Barn Butchery, Bay Seafood, B.Organic and Malaya Kitchen, to name just a few. It gives a sense of adventure to grocery shopping and the whole process of meal preparation. But wait, there’s more! Satiate your appetite for discovery through live cooking demonstrations, community-driven events and thematic festivals. Somehow, grocery shopping has been elevated to a fun experience at Ben’s!

Hauntu:

Take a break from shopping and enter the doors of Hauntu’s Colle Eastern Hotel, a fictional hotel that will immediately immerse you in its “horror” story. Hauntu is a blend of live theatre, role play and storytelling. It features real actors, audience interaction, intricate mazes and interconnected storylines that centre around a colonial hotel filled with mystery and the paranormal. Participants not only get to take on roles within the storylines but also experience Malaysia in different eras from its pre-independence days right up to the present. Imagine Breakout or Escape Room with a chilling twist!

De.Wan 1958:

Malaysia’s beloved chef and Tourism Malaysia ambassador, Datuk Redzuawan Ismail, better known as Chef Wan, has opened a restaurant to serve up all his favourite dishes! Savour the diversified Malaysian cuisine and enjoy state-of-the-art banquet hall designed for immersive event experiences. De.Wan 1958‘s unique space makes it feel like you’ve arrived home to a warm and welcoming space. But far from being just a place to enjoy delicious food, the space make the perfect venue for corporate and personal celebrations, too.

Sushi Hara:

Sushi Hara is the place to go for your freshest take of Japan. They fly their supplies in directly from Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo and under the expert hands of executive chef, Harada Junji, a premium Omakase experience is unveiled. Diners will get a one-of a kind interaction with Harada-San who specialises in Omakase and Kaiseki cuisine. With only 12 seats at the sushi bar and unique, individual tablewares from Japan, Sushi Hara provides a setting that is uniquely Japanese.