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negaraku II: Exploring unique Malaysian Identity at Hin Bus Depot

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negaraku II: A collectors’ showcase by Bingley Sim and Ima Norbinsha, curated by Ivan Gabriel

What does it mean to call yourself a Malaysian today? This August, negaraku II invites everyone to explore this question at the vibrant Hin Bus Depot in George Town, Penang.

Building on the momentum of the first negaraku last August, this anthology deepens the conversation around identity, belonging, and the many stories that make Malaysia what it is today.

Curated by Ivan Gabriel and produced by Hin Bus Depot, negaraku II brings together compelling pieces from the private collections of Bingley Sim and Ima Norbinsha, two passionate champions of socially conscious Malaysian contemporary art.

The exhibition features around 35 curated works, with some shown as thematic sets — bringing the total number of individual pieces to roughly 60.

negaraku II
Lebuh Pudu by Gan Chin Lee

Their collections reflect decades of dedication to works that do-not-just depict Malaysia but ask us to confront its complexities.

While the original negaraku sparked discussions about nationhood through powerful visual storytelling, negaraku II widens the lens to include the diverse voices of citizens, migrants, and everyone in between; recognising that Malaysia’s identity is a constantly evolving mosaic of cultures and experiences.

The exhibition creates space for often-overlooked narratives, reminding us that our national story is far from one-dimensional.

“negaraku II is a call to re-examine what it means to belong,” says curator Ivan Gabriel at the opening day of negaraku II exhibition at Hin Bus Depot, “It’s about honouring every face and every untold story that breathes life into this land.

The works we’ve gathered are living reflections of the people and everyday realities that shape Malaysia. By organising the exhibition into bab, or thematic chapters, we wanted to guide visitors through stories that touch on pride, migration, food, and shared aspirations — while still leaving room for the public to bring their own meaning to the journey.”

“Our theme, Rakyat Hidup, Bersatu dan Maju, is a reflection of how Malaysians live — not just side by side, but truly together,” says collector Bingley Sim.

“In every piece, you’ll find glimpses of everyday harmony, whether it’s a neighbour’s kindness, a shared meal, or the resilience of those who came from elsewhere and now call this home.

These quiet, powerful gestures echo across the bab in the exhibition, reminds us that unity isn’t about being the same, but about choosing to see and support each other, again and again.”

This year’s edition also features new artworks by selected artists, offering fresh perspectives on the urgent social and political issues of our time.

Beyond the artworks themselves, negaraku II comes alive through a dynamic public programme that includes multilingual guided tours in English, Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, and Sign Language, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or ability, feels welcome.

But negaraku II doesn’t stop at the gallery door. Embracing the simple joys that bind Malaysians together, the exhibition introduces live food demonstrations, where visitors can savour the making of classics like Roti Jala and Nasi Ulam.

These communal moments of tasting and storytelling transform the space into a living, breathing celebration of shared memory and connection.

negaraku II challenges us to imagine a Malaysia that is big enough for all its people, however they arrived and however they find home. It invites us to see, taste, and feel the many threads that weave together our national identity, and to celebrate the beauty of a country always in the making.

Supported by Yayasan Mr. D.I.Y. and Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers, the exhibition is free to the public and runs from 1 August to 31 August 2025 at Hin Bus Depot.

negaraku II

For more information visit www.hinbusdepot.com.

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Carlsberg unveils mesmeRICEsing packaging with 4 new iconic designs

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Raikan Kebanggaan Sabah & Sarawak with mesmeRICEsing Art by our Local Artists

SHAH ALAM, 16 April 2025 – In Sabah and Sarawak, rice is more than just sustenance, it is the heart of the harvest festival, a symbol of life, gratitude and unity. It carries the legacy of generations, from the dedication of farmers to traditions passed down over time, forming an unbreakable bond between the land and its people.

Carlsberg’s latest Sabah and Sarawak artist-edition packaging brings this rich heritage to life, showcasing stunning rice art that celebrates cultural pride.

Carlsberg Smooth Draught will feature these intricate rice art designs on its cans and bottles throughout the year, while, back by popular demand, Carlsberg Danish Pilsner joins the collection for a limited time in April and May.

Back for the 5th consecutive year, the artist-edition packaging reinforces Carlsberg’s commitment to honouring local traditions through design and craftsmanship.

Carlsberg Raikan Kebanggaan Sabah Sarawak
Check out these four mesmeRICEsing designs.

Featuring four mesmeRICEsing designs “By locals, For locals”, Sabahan artist Nelson Lip and Sarawakian artist T. Bagak have meticulously designed these stunning creations, showcasing Borneo’s most symbolic icons.

Each variant features two distinct designs, one inspired by Sabah and the other Sarawak, inspiring local pride in every sip.

Carlsberg Smooth Draught’s packaging brings Borneo’s essence to life, with Sabah’s design depicting the awe-inspiring Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s tallest peak, while Sarawak’s design features the regal Hornbill perched above a longhouse, a revered symbol of cultural heritage and good luck.

Carlsberg Danish Pilsner, on the other hand, embraces the region’s rich heritage with Sabah’s design highlighting the gentle Orangutan and the mystical Rafflesia, some of the world’s rarest sights.

The other design celebrates Sarawak’s cultural traditions with hypnotic rhythms of the Sape and the welcoming warmth of the traditional longhouse.

“The essence of Gawai and Kaamatan is deeply tied to the harvest and rice. Carlsberg honours that heritage, embracing the unity, gratitude, and celebration at the heart of these festivals. We’re thrilled to once again ‘Raikan Kebanggaan Sabah & Sarawak’ with a stronger focus on local pride as we collaborate with two talented local artists, whose designs beautifully capture the spirit of Sabah and Sarawak, making every celebration #BestWithCarlsberg,” said Olga Pulyaeva, Marketing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia.

From 15 to 18 May 2025, at Farley Kuching, consumers can experience the vibrant fusion of traditional and modern celebration at the annual Carls Harvest Pesta.

This four-day celebration will feature the finest brews together with captivating live performances, traditional music and dance performances by local artists.

Attendees can indulge in Bornean delights and fusion cuisines while immersing themselves in interactive experiences from crafting rice art bracelets and rice resin art to mixology workshops at the CarlsBar, with free Tuak Bombs served every two hours to keep the celebrations going.

Adding to the excitement, early birds will receive a free can of Carlsberg to welcome them to the festival.

And that’s not all, consumers can also get their hands on the collectable MesmeRICEsing plates, one celebrating the iconic symbols of Sabah and the other highlighting the essence of Sarawak via in-store promotions, while stocks last, and stand a chance to win Apple 16 Pros, 11 inch iPad Air or Apple Watch Series 10.

Visit https://bestwithcarlsberg.my/harvest to learn more and follow @CarlsbergMY on Facebook and Instagram for more information and stay tuned for the upcoming Carlsberg’s special Harvest Song Music Video.

This is one celebration you don’t want to miss, so grab a can or bottle, raise a toast, and #RaikanKebanggaanSabahSarawak with Carlsberg! Remember to always #CelebrateResponsibly, if you drink, please don’t drive!

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The British Council announces RM4.2 million arts grants

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New support for artistic collaborations: The British Council announces Connections Through Culture arts grants supporting new cultural projects between UK and Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: The British Council is thrilled to announce the opening of applications for its Connections Through Culture arts grants, a RM4.2 million grant programme designed to foster artistic and cultural collaborations between the UK and Asia-Pacific countries.

The Connections Through Culture grants support new international collaborations between the UK and Malaysia, offering grant support to organisations and artists in the development of their creative projects.

Applicants in Malaysia can apply for grants of up to RM60,000, for projects from all artforms.

However, proposals responding to Climate Change, and Diversity and Inclusion may be prioritised during final decision making.

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Projects supported by the Connections Through Culture Grants are required to include at least one UK-based applicant and one applicant based in Malaysia.

“We’re proud to be supporting new creative collaborations between the United Kingdom and Malaysia through our Connections Through Culture grants”, said Jazreel Goh, Director Malaysia, British Council.

“These grants can spark big ideas and major collaborations. We’re proud to be providing this support, keeping the doors open for artists in both countries to make connections and showcase their talents on the international stage. Connections Through Culture grants not only create meaningful artistic exchanges but help to bring greater understanding that will enrich the global creative landscape.”

Application process

The British Council is inviting applications that showcase new artistic collaborations between the UK and Asia-Pacific.

To support applicants, the British Council is offering a comprehensive set of resources to assist potential applicants, including an application toolkit with valuable tips and detailed insights into the programme’s context.

Potential applicants can find more information on the British Council website, including a toolkit, frequently asked questions, and information sessions to support organisations and artists through the application process.

Key Dates:

Applications Open: 9 July 2024

Register on our website for an Information Session:

• Information Session 1, 8:00 GMT, 17 July 2024

• Information Session 2, 9:00 GMT, 18 July 2024

• Information Session 3, 9:00 GMT, 23 July 2024

• Information Session 4, 10:00 GMT, 25 July 2024

Applications Deadline: 2 September 2024

Click here to apply

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NKF Malaysia launches VoKAL at the 16th Annual Patient Forum

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VoKAL serves as an official platform to elevate voices and transform policies for better kidney care in Malaysia

Kuching Sarawak, 1 October 2023 –  The National Kidney Foundation (“NKF”) of Malaysia held its 16th Annual Patient Forum 2023 in Kuching on October 1. Since 2003, the forum has been dedicated to serving kidney patients, their caregivers, and personnel from government, private, and NGO dialysis centres.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia for their efforts in choosing Kuching as the location for their 16th forum. Their decision to subsidise registration costs is commendable, as it paves the way for greater public participation, allowing a wider audience to partake in this valuable event,” said Dato’ Sri Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier, of Sarawak and Minister For Public Health, Housing And Local Government.

“NKF has been championing the fight against kidney-associated diseases through improving kidney care and preventive education. Recognising the need for support among kidney patients, this forum provides a convenient platform for patients to access essential information and advice,” said Dato’ Dr Zaki Morad Mohd Zaher, Chairman of NKF Malaysia.

Vokal 2

In conjunction with Patient Forum 2023, NKF also launched VoKAL (Voice-out Kidney Alliance), a nationwide kidney support group. VoKAL serves as an official platform for patients, caregivers, donors, service providers, and healthcare professionals to express their thoughts and concerns regarding kidney-related matters.

The primary purpose of VoKAL is to operate as an advocacy and advisory body, amplifying voices through support, advocacy campaigns, and activities that result in substantial contributions to kidney care in Malaysia. Its goal is to serve the community by providing a venue for formal recommendations to government and policymakers. These proposals address critical issues such as improving affordability and expanding access to quality treatments for kidney disease; protecting living donor rights, and removing barriers to organ donation; championing patient’s rights and empowerment; as well as supporting policy changes that can reduce the risks of kidney diseases.

NKF Malaysia invites all patients and interested parties to join VoKAL today and be the change of our kidney community needs. Your voice matters in shaping policies for better kidney care in Malaysia. Raise your voice at https://vokal.nkf.org.my/

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CARSOME expands operations in Sarawak

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KUCHING, Sarawak, 22 October 2022 – Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, CARSOME, has officially expanded its operations to East Malaysia with the launch of four new inspection centers in Sarawak. This expansion sees CARSOME introducing a new standard of selling cars to East Malaysians and providing them with a trusted and transparent option.

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The inspection centers aim to offer customers a differentiated and hassle-free car-selling experience, through fast payment and worry-free transaction process. Guided by a stringent inspection procedure, every CARSOME Inspection Center will have a skilled professional inspector to conduct comprehensive inspection on the car, to ensure its quality is accounted for to offer the best price in the market.

CARSOME Co-Founder & CARSOME Academy CEO, Teoh Jiun Ee said the expansion to East Malaysia is part of CARSOME’s ongoing mission to solve customers’ pain points, thereby providing Malaysians peace of mind throughout their car selling journey. “The presence of CARSOME in East Malaysia marks a significant and positive milestone for us. Our motivation is to make CARSOME services accessible to all Malaysians as we continue to innovate the used car ecosystem, driven by data and technology.”

With the launch of four new inspection centers in Sarawak – Kuching, Sibu, Miri and Bintulu CARSOME now has 49 inspection centers across Malaysia. Leveraging proprietary data and pricing algorithms, CARSOME ensures fair pricing can be determined for every car, underlining its goal to create a trusted and transparent used car ecosystem. Aside from pricing offered by CARSOME, customers can also opt for its e-bidding platform, to get different price offers from its nationwide network of used car dealers.

The launch of the new CARSOME Inspection Center at Kuching was officiated by Sarawak Deputy Premier, Second Minister for Finance and New Economy and Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Sarawak, Yang Berhormat Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

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Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said CARSOME’s expansion to Sarawak comes at a critical time given that the country is in a recovery phase from the pandemic.

“I believe that CARSOME’s technology driven business model will complement our goal which is to improve the standard of living, grow our economy to provide business and job opportunities and train our people to be resourceful and increase their income level. This is in tandem with the Sarawak government’s plan in implementing its Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) where its people will enjoy economic prosperity driven by data and innovation.”

CARSOME will be supporting used car dealers in digitalizing their operations and ecosystem by introducing its E-bidding Platform and Dealer Financing Program and providing end-to-end support for dealers. By bringing its proprietary technology and software innovation, CARSOME aims to empower used car dealers to seamlessly tap into new trends through digitalization.

In addition, CARSOME hopes through its expansion that it will help stimulate the economy and drive greater growth for the used car market. To do this, CARSOME will create new sales and growth opportunities for used car dealers by establishing partnership deals, while offering bonus rewards and credit lines for long-term business sustainability.  

The inspection centers in Sarawak will serve as among the next steps forward in CARSOME’s growth plans, strengthening its already established footprint in Malaysia. A series of marketing initiatives will also take place in Sarawak offering various promotions for consumers to experience the new standard of selling their cars through CARSOME.  

For more information on CARSOME upcoming promotions in Sarawak, please visit CARSOME website.

About CARSOME

CARSOME is Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform. With operations across Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore, CARSOME aims to digitize the region’s used car industry by reshaping and elevating the car transaction and ownership experience.

Together with subsidiary brands iCar Asia, WapCar and CarTimes, CARSOME provides end-to-end solutions to consumers and used car dealers across the decision funnel, from car content consumption, car inspection, ownership transfer to financing and other ancillary services, promising to bring trust, transparency and choice  to our customers. CARSOME currently has more than 4,000 employees across all its offices in Asia.

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An Epicurean exBEERience for 200 Carlsberg Smooth Draught Lovers

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Chef Mano Thevar working his culinary magic

SHAH ALAM 27 July 2022 – The Carlsberg Smooth Draught ‘Real Spicy, Real Smooth’ dining exBEERience has been an anticipated affair ever since the news made headlines. As anxious contestants gripped the edge of their seats in fervent excitement, 100 lucky winners and their partners were awarded the coveted prize of experiencing the edgiest contemporary Indian cuisine and Carlsberg’s signature refreshing smooth brew, Carlsberg Smooth Draught, in one fiery night of gastronomic symphony.

Spearheaded by the culinary maven – two Michelin-starred Chef Mano Thevar, the exclusive food pairing event delivered not just star-studded treatment but a four-course meal that brought to life the combinations of spicy Indian cuisine complemented and infused with Carlsberg Smooth Draught. The blend of heat and spice that graciously worked the palate coupled with the refreshing and hoppy taste of Carlsberg Smooth Draught induced a medley of unexplored flavours that took diners on an epicurean journey.

According to Lye Say Hong, “I’m super excited to be able to enjoy the experience of fine dining with Carlsberg! Never in my life have I won a prize, so this means a lot to me. When I first tried Carlsberg Smooth Draught I was intrigued. It was very smooth, which got me going. I fell in love with it! I am very excited to participate in tonight’s event.”

“I’ve personally never tried beer with spicy food before, so my first thoughts were I really want to win this prize. I really love spicy food and I love Carlsberg so when I won, I was over the top. I’m enjoying every single moment of this event and I really want to thank Carlsberg for this superb experience, they really are the best beer in the world!” said Thiban Eaganathan, another lucky winner.

Winners of the Real Spicy Real Smooth gastronomic experience

Kicking-off the evening with mouth-watering welcome bites, Chef Mano Thevar initiated diners with fluffy Chilli Cheese Kulcha served with a deliciously creamy Carlsberg Smooth Draught infused butter.

Once guests were seated, they were treated to the culinary performance of Chef Mano and his crew working like clockwork behind the open kitchen. The debut for the evening came in an explosion of layered flavours that encapsulated the senses with an opening snack of Beetroot Chaat, Maitake Mushroom Samosa and Chettinad Chicken Taco or Vindaloo Jackfruit Taco on the vegetarian menu.

For the appetiser, a perfectly seared Hokkaido Scallop submerged in a rich coconut sothi infused with Carlsberg Smooth Draught delivered depths of velvety essence with each mouthful, while non-meat eaters indulged in a beautiful Zucchini Blossom coated with the same sultry gravy.

The mains which offered either Saratoga Lamb Korma, Crispy Amadai or Cauliflower Malabar immersed the tastebuds with spicy earthy flavours blended with Carlsberg Smooth Draught as one of the key ingredients. Each mouthful delivered a magical fusion of hot and piquant cuisine elevated by the refreshing smoothness of Carlsberg Smooth Draught, bringing guests on a mouth-watering joyride. The meal was then strikingly concluded with Rasmalai, a Carlsberg Smooth Draught infused ice-cream, to wash down the heat induced feast.

Guests were given the opportunity to tap their own pint of Carlsberg Smooth Draught

“This was a really great campaign by Carlsberg. I’ve always been a fan of Carlsberg Smooth Draught, and this was something truly unique. I even got a chance to tap my own beer for the very first time and learn about what goes into the creation of Carlsberg Smooth Draught which was really interesting.

The fact that the food was created by a Malaysian Michelin-starred chef was really the cherry on top of the cake for my partner and I, we were very proud to be part of this experience,” mentioned Ricknesh Kishor, another winner of the dining exBEERience.

The versatility of Carlsberg Smooth Draught delivers endless new and innovative adventures that will allow drinkers to really explore the depths of its flavour. With special thanks to Chef Mano Thevar and The RuMa Hotel and Residences in making the campaign a success, Carlsberg Malaysia now looks to bringing more exciting and contemporary campaigns to the fore.

Instagram worthy dishes at the Real Spicy Real Smooth dinner event

Visit https://www.probablythebest.com.my/ to find out more about our upcoming promotions in-store and be sure to ‘Like’ and ‘Follow’ @CarlsbergMY on Facebook and Instagram for Carlsberg’s latest activities and giveaways.

Of course, as part of living a safe and responsible life, we advocate responsible consumption, always remember if you drink, don’t drive – #CelebrateResponsibly.

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The Hills Kuching hosts FORAGE Food Festival from 22-24 July

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Catch the Gastro-Fun at Forage Food Festival!

Kuching, Sarawak – The Hills Kuching is set to host the FORAGE Food Festival from 22nd to 24th July 2022. This landmark gastronomic event will be held in conjunction with the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Gastronomy (SAGO) Incubator 2022.

FORAGE @ The Hills is a celebration of Kuching being recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

“Kuching’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy is a testament to the rich natural resources of Sarawak, our talented F&B ecosystem and the unique diversity of cultures of Sarawak,” said Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Art Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. “Food is not just a sustenance for us Sarawakians, but a celebration of our unity, our diversity and our sense of community. Forage @ The Hills is a platform to celebrate and showcase this.”

The three-day festival will showcase F&B selections by SAGO’s food-preneurs including new food innovations boasting a diversity of local flavours. In addition, there will be other food vendors, performances by local artists and activities such as workshops, cooking demonstrations, discussions and talks by key local F&B influencers. There will also be a competitions with up to RM5,000 worth of prizes to be won, including an Aglio-Olio Eating Contest, Teh O Peng Relay, Quiz Night and Social Media Creative Content Contest.

A gallery will also display Kuching’s application to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) and other highlights including the unique native ingredients of Sarawak, our relationship with food and nature, the evolution of our food culture, and a whole melting pot of diverse cultures and cuisines.

The SAGO Incubator is an 11-week intensive programme that equips food entrepreneurs with the skills and network to grow their food business and succeed in the digital economy. This year’s nine food entrepreneurs were carefully selected from more than 30 applications by SAGO’s selection committee comprised of experienced professionals from the industry. They are Claudia Nasha Chai (The Abraham’s Kitchen), Ezi Firhan (Emillies Diner), Kimberley Ling (Tacos by Bojio), Marthineus Langi Michael (Stardust Cafe), Mohd Rozairie Ramlie (Flip and Fold Grill), Nur Fadzila Sarkawi (Aek Kunyit Manjakani), Nur Shaqhima Hamden (Queen’s Kitchen by Sheemadean), Ooi See Bee (Cloud-99 Ice Cream) and Saw Yee Ken (Billy Goat Coffee). Besides mastering food innovation skills from resident mentor Chef Achang Libat, this year’s nine food-preneurs have also been learning business development and marketing know-how to elevate their food business.

FORAGE @ The Hills is organised by The Hills, WAT Sarawak and Retrospective Discovery in collaboration with the Culinary Heritage and Arts Society Sarawak (CHASS), and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, TEGAS Digital Village, Supreme Group, Pullman Kuching, Green Buddy, Kedey Kamek, SEDC, foodpanda, Suara Sarawak and New Sarawak Tribune.

For more event updates, please follow The Hills on Facebook and Instagram @thehills.kch.

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Celebrating Sabah and Sarawak pride with artistic icons on Carlsberg Special Edition cans

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Carlsberg presents Sabah and Sarawak’s special-edition packaging in appreciation of their
beautiful heritage, traditions, and natural wonders

SHAH ALAM, 28 March 2022 – Building on the success of its Gawai and Kaamatan Festivals’ limited-edition packaging last year, Carlsberg Smooth Draught presents six artistically designed special-edition
cans and bottles this year to celebrate the pride of Sabah & Sarawak. The eye-catching mural that perfectly wraps each product centres around bringing people together to appreciate and celebrate the bountiful art and culture of the stunning Borneo islands.

Sporting six unique icons in vibrant colours, the ‘Sabah & Sarawak Pride’ packaging sublimely accentuates the lush local nature and rich culture in an illustrative composition, showcasing a masterpiece of contemporary art and beer. The creative artworks feature icons such as the Orangutan, majestic mountains and Rafflesia of Sabah and the Longhouse, Hornbill and Sape of Sarawak.

Aptly themed ‘Raikan Kebanggaan Sabah & Sarawak’, this campaign pays tribute and recognition to the beautiful culture of the natives, extraordinary wildlife, and amazing natural wonders. Available in 320ml cans and 580ml bottles, these iconic Carlsberg Smooth Draught products are made exclusively for Carlsberg consumers in Sabah and Sarawak and will be introduced in three phases through island-wide consumer promotions. The first two designs were revealed in March, followed by another two in conjunction with the coming Gawai and Kaamatan festivals and the final two to be unveiled towards the last quarter of the year.

“Sabah and Sarawak are both well-known for their diverse people, languages, traditions and festivities, so is Carlsberg, a brand that celebrates, and pays homage to that distinction that the locals carry so proudly. Last year, our first-of-its-kind festive cans in conjunction with the Gawai and Kaamatan festivals had such an amazing reception. This year, we wanted to step it up a notch, by rendering some of the most notable local icons into works of art, using our products as the canvas,” said Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia.

Visit https://carlsbergsabahsarawak.com to find out more about promotions in-store. ‘Like’ and ‘Follow’ @CarlsbergMY on Facebook and Instagram for Carlsberg’s latest activities and giveaways.

Of course, as part of living a safe and responsible life, we advocate responsible consumption, always remember if you drink, don’t drive – #CelebrateResponsibly.


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Sarawakian architects win ‘Langit’ architecture competition

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Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg presenting a plaque to Langit winner Jacinta Yii of Yii KE Architect, as HSL Managing Director Dato Yu Chee Hoe (middle) looks on. Her design collaborator for the contest, Alan Kueh, attended virtually.

KUCHING: An eco-friendly 18-storey mixed-use commercial building design clinched Langit‘s top prize for Sarawakian architects Jascinta Yii and Alan Kueh.

Practising in Kuching and Melbourne respectively, Yii and Kueh’s joint submission included public spaces, offices, apartments, plant nurseries — all designed with inter-generational living in mind.

Judges called the entry “impactful, providing high-density, yet adaptable multi-generational living and
working units”. It was also praised for promoting ideas of sustainable living with urban farming as a
feature.

Langit: Reaching for greater heights in design and living

Langit is Sarawak’s first ever national architecture contest. Hock Seng Lee, in collaboration with Next
Phase (HSL-NP), intends to build one of the winners. The project site is a compact 0.78acres at a strategic
location within Kuching’s central business district.

Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the results at HSL Tower here on
August 7.

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Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg (middle) with HSL-NP directors (from left) Tony Yu, Simon Lau, Datuk Yu Chee Hoe and Yu Ji.

“The Sarawak Government enjoys a close relationship with architects. This is clear to see in our urban
planning, public parks and institutional buildings. In Sarawak, we know cities are made for people and the
people make good cities. We know that development plans must start from the human level,” Abang Johari said.

“My friends at HSL-NP codenamed this competition Langit because in Bahasa Sarawak, ‘Lang’ means
door, and in Malay, Langit is the sky. We want to reach for greater heights together. I hope Langit will be
the prototype of, not only a new building, but a new way of thinking about development.”

Different strengths, different messages


Second place went to Just Architecture, third place to MOA Architects, and two honourary mentions to UT
Moh Architect and Arkitek LH Wong. Their designs ranged from futuristic vertical farms to 39-storey
skyscrapers.

The third-place winner, MoA Architects, uniquely, is a twin tower designed using a plot-ratio system. This
planning method is similar to those used in regional megacities like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and
Bangkok.

The plot-ratio system allowed MOA Architects’ entry to have a large and meaningful public space at the
lower levels.

Cash prizes for the top five totalled RM200,000.

The judging process was anonymous. Jury members comprised Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) president Datuk Ezumi Harzani, PAM Sarawak immediate past chairman Ivy Jong, Veritas Architects director Lilian Tay, multi-award winner and conservationist Mike Boon, and developer HSL-NP representative Yu Ji.

HSL Langit winner Cloud Forest
Impactful, accessible: Yii and Kueh’s ‘Cloud Forest’ scheme showed the most well rounded solution to the criteria sought by Langit judges. Engaging and refreshing, the design was very relevant to future proofing in the new norm post Covid-19 pandemic, and encapsulated the ideas of sustainable living featuring the concept of urban farming and promoting occupants self-sufficiency with opportunity for public and community engagements at multiple levels.

Challenging convention in the heart of Kuching city

“Many of the design ideas challenge conventional expectations and demonstrated refreshing approaches
in place-making in the context of Kuching. A majority of the submissions displayed clear commitment to
social and environmental sustainability,” said Jong, who was jury chair.

“The shortlisted schemes pushed various aspects of design ideas thinking and juries were impressed by
the creativity, approach and thoughts demonstrated.”

In 2021, there have been just two architecture competitions in the whole of Malaysia. The first was for
design the facade of a train station between Johor and Singapore. That competition, which the Johor
Sultan was the patron, concluded in February.

Langit began in March. Participants comprised some of Malaysia’s best known firms, including TR Hamzah
& Yeang, Design Network Architects, Dr Tan LM and Form Zero — all winners of national design accolades.
HSL-NP is the project site land owner and and competition sponsor.

HSL’s current HQ is the first privately built Green Building Index certified office in Sarawak. Located at the
200-acre La Promenade, it is the only Sarawak development to win the trifecta of awards from developers,
landscapers and architects’ institutes.

For more info, visit langitkch.com, hsl.com.my or search #LangitKch and @hslcn on social media

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Watch Borneo Jazz Festival 2021 free this weekend

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Pete Kallang, Clinton Jerome Chua and Nisa Addina are among the Sarawakian artistes performing during this weekend’s BJF!

Get ready for tonight because the Borneo Jazz Festival Virtual Journey will be starting this 25-27 June 2021 from 6pm to 7.30pm!

BJF 2021 will be a combination of flashbacks to past musical acts that performed at BJF as well as original pre-recorded sessions and interviews with renowned jazz musicians from Sarawak and around the world.

Viewers will be serenaded by a string of jazz musicians including Clinton Jerome Chua, O-Ha Soul Band, Nisa Addina, Borneo Jazz Talent Search 2018 winner Ta’Dan and the “Prince of Borneo” himself – Pete Kallang.

Meanwhile, the BJF2021 Virtual Journey will also feature exclusive interviews with Singapore’s ‘King of Swing’ and Asia’s Jazz Superstar Jeremy Monteiro; Dave Brewer of Dave and the Doodaddies; and John Hammond.

“Covid-19 has shown us how important digital and social media has been for artists to reach out to their audiences and maintain their fan-following throughout the pandemic. After more than a year of watching the international entertainment industry, among others, innovate on how to reach out to their target groups, we look forward to seeing fans and new audiences embrace the Borneo Jazz Festival 2021 Virtual Journey,” said Sarawak Tourism Board CEO Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor.

“With the BJF 2021 now bringing the Virtual Journey into people’s homes through the Borneo Jazz Festival platform, TVS and Shopee Live there could be more new audiences and jazz lovers locally and from around the world,” she said.

How do I watch it?

Borneo Jazz Festival Virtual Journey 2021
Watch out for O-Ha Soul Band and Ta’Dan!

Through the virtual platform on www.jazzborneo.com, viewers can watch the performances, interviews and flashbacks as well as engage in conversation with other online users throughout the 90-minute events.

Borneo Jazz Festival (BJF) will be viewable on www.jazzborneo.com, TVS and on Shopee Live.

Registrants to the BJF platform will be eligible for the contest giveaways to be held during the virtual events, where you can win free tickets to next year’s festivals, discounts to selected hotels, event merchandise and much more.

Viewers can also enjoy the show on TVS, Sarawak’s very own tv station on Astro (Channel 122) and BJF’s Official Broadcast Partner.

Grab is the Official Delivery Partner for BJF. Those who register and access the musical events on www.jazzborneo.com will be able to order food and receive discounts with a special promo code.

With Shopee named as the Official E-commerce Partner, the virtual experience will also be streamed via Shopee Live, giving access to millions of households across the country to enjoy the showcase from the comforts of their own homes.

Sarawak Tourism Board has opened an official store on Shopee to feature merchandise from BJF. This includes BJF Limited Edition T-shirts, Limited Edition Batik Linut Face Mask, Limited Edition Printed Batik Face Mask, and other attractive products.

To get Limited Edition BJF merchandise, visit https://shopee.com.my/placeborneosdnbhd

Borneo Jazz Programme Highlights
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