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Fancy designing a building in Kuching’s business district? ‘Langit’ is the limit

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KUCHING: Hock Seng Lee (HSL), Next Phase and the Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) are inviting registered architects to challenge their creativity in an architectural design competition called ‘Langit’.

Targeted for a prime piece of land in Kuching’s central business district, the plot measures about an acre along Jalan Tabuan and is within 1 km radius of Kuching Waterfront, Padungan, and tHe Spring Shopping Mall.

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The architectural competition for #LangitKch — a commercial high-rise — is on a small but prime piece of land in Kuching’s CBD. It is a matured site with commercial developments including offices, condominiums, shopping malls, hotels and schools, all within a kilometre’s radius.

The competition is open to all PAM-registered corporate members with prize monies totalling RM200,000.

PAM members may collaborate with foreign architects and there is no limit to the number of entries submitted by an architect.

The first prize is RM100,000, second prize RM50,000, third prize RM25,000, and two honourable mentions. Registration opens Feb 8 and the competition closes on Apr 19.

Results will be announced in late May.

What to know about the design competition?

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HSL’s marketing team has tentatively named the project “Langit”, which in Bahasa Malaysia is “sky”, while in Bahasa Sarawak, “lang” is door.

Hailed as the first of its kind in Sarawak, the design brief for HSL, Next Phase and PAM Sarawak Chapter’s competition calls for a commercial development for a max gross floor area of 30,000sqm. The design can be for a mixed-use commercial development, except for a hotel.

“This competition is an ‘ideas competition’. A great piece of land, in such a good location, should have a great building on it. Any commercial development is also an opportunity to do public spaces,” HSL properties development general manager Tay Chiok Kee said.

Judges will focus on community engagement to enhance both the public and users of the building, optimum building orientation and economic viability. 

“We want the best ideas right from the start. Our judges will scrutinise all entries, and as the developer, we will build what is best for the location and for the people of Kuching.”

PAM Sarawak chairman Jong is thrilled with the design competition.

“This competition is forward-thinking and significant for property developers as well as architects. The industry I represent has long yearned for a competition. We want to be challenged and to be competitive,” Jong said.

“HSL will gain significantly from having the most innovative ideas and best designed plans. But, really, the ultimate beneficiary will be the public. The public stands to gain a new architectural icon, new business ventures, new job opportunities and a new public space — all at a location easily accessible to all.”

HSL’s marketing team has tentatively named the project “Langit”, which in Bahasa Malaysia is sky, while in Bahasa Sarawak, “lang” means door.

“This is an aspirational project,” said PAM Sarawak deputy chairman Chai Si Yong, who is director of PDC Design Group.

“We collaborate closely with HSL to make this skyscraper competition happen. It was over a year ago when HSL first spoke to us about a competition. As a developer, HSL is designer- and professional-led. We spoke a lot about challenges, goals and ideas. It only made sense for us to jointly organise a contest,” Chai said.

The judges include PAM Sarawak chairman Ar Ivy Jong, PAM Malaysia president Datuk Ar Ezumi Harzani Ismail, an eminent Sarawakian architect, an eminent Malaysian architect, and HSL representative.

Kuching is one of the best design cities in Malaysia. It is a city notable for many award-winning architects and unique buildings. Firms in Sarawak like Design Network Architects, Arkitek KDI, IDC Architects, Pu Architects and David Ong Architects have won national recognition for their designer mansions, hotels, convention centres and interior designs.

Kuching is also home to the iconic State Legislative building by Hijjas Kasturi, the restored Old Court House, Kuching Mosque, OCBC Building, Sarawak Syariah Court, Kuching South and North City Halls.

For the latest, visit langitkch.com and pamsc.org.my. Updates will also be available at hsl.com.my and @hslcn on social media. 

 

 

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Shop, ‘ngupi’ at La Promenade Mall, Kota Samarahan

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When you hear about another shopping mall like La Promenade Mall opening up in Kota Samarahan, those living closer to central Kuching may feel undecided about crossing the Kuching-Samarahan line. It sounds ‘far’ and you might have to deal with the legendary Samarahan traffic.

Sited along the Kuching-Samarahan Expressway comfortably between the established city centre and smart township of Samarahan, however, the newly-launched La Promenade Mall by Hock Seng Lee is neither too far nor out of the way.

It’s 20-25 minutes from Kuching’s golden triangle, and if you’re willing to head to Jalan Canna to wait in the drivethru for McDonald’s Prosperity Burger set, another 5 minutes’ drive to La Promenade Mall will be a cinch.

Shop, taste the difference

La Promenade Mall doesn’t aim to be just another retail-oriented shopping centre, but a neighbourhood community hub that supplies services to shoppers and residents working the daily commute that they can’t get online.

HSL’s ‘Support Local’ approach will see Sarawakian businesses like Black Bean Coffee and Tea, NOMS, Taka Patisserie, Hock King Authentic Chicken Rice, Rice King, and Mr Domus among the tenants livening up the four-storey commercial space, offering local foodies and coffee lovers a cosy retreat after the day’s work is done.

KajoMag 007 HSL La Promenade Mall
Indulge your sweet tooth with Taka Patisserie’s selection of freshly baked goodies.

For those who are looking to do some grocery shopping on their way home, browsing through the aisles of anchor tenant Choice Supermarket promises to provide shoppers a more enjoyable experience with their emphasis on fresh produce, leafy greens, imported meat, freshly baked bread and personal care section.

Designed by Australian firm BHO Interiors, Choice Supermarket’s contemporary layout will also include a food kiosk, as well as a combination of serviced cashiers and self-checkout aisles.

What’s more, if you’re looking to work out while relishing the sunrise and sunset views over Kuching, you’ll be able to check in at the Sweat Factory gym and enjoy a more holistic approach to wellbeing and fitness in addition to the gym machine with the availability of instructor-focused group classes and personal training.

On top of that, La Promenade Mall has provided special leases and subsidised rental to local non-governmental organisations such as Hope Place, Intellectually Disabled Adults Society, Bodhi Counselling Centre and Helping Hands, thus providing them space for workshops, offices and storefronts, truly making it a shopping center with public service and community focus at its core.

Currently, HSL is one of Hope Place’s biggest donors, which also includes the sponsoring of an animated short. Hand drawn painstakingly over a period of 7 months by the Sarawakian creatives behind Pixbugs Studio, Hope Place aims to raise RM100,000 through the fundraising video.

La Promenade Mall and the environment

If, at first glance, you had taken in La Promenade’s glass curtain walls and just thought it was an office building… well okay, you wouldn’t be completely wrong. La Promenade Mall is just one of the components within the 10-storey HSL Tower, which also happens to be the first privately owned Green Building Index-certified building in East Malaysia, with La Promenade Mall being its second.

What does it mean? With energy-saving features like it’s 3,700 custom made triple glazed glass panels it means more natural light, less heat and less air-con, resulting in an approximate 25% reduction in energy consumption. Light shafts going down into the basement carpark also helps reduce the need for underground electric lighting.

Impatient to see what else is going to be moving in to La Promenade Mall, Kota Samarahan? Watch this space or visit hsl.com.my and lapromenademall.com.my!

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Refresh your Work From Home experience with Heineken 0.0

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Now you can enjoy the same great taste of Heineken® by inviting Heineken 0.0 into your virtual meeting

KUALA LUMPUR – Heineken 0.0 is now available in new cans for Malaysians to enjoy, anytime, anywhere!

Boasting a slimmer, more stylish and premium look, Heineken® 0.0 was launched following the rise in in-home consumption occasions amidst the new normal.

Heineken® 0.0 serves as the perfect partner to help refresh the work from home experience, which now plays a major role in our everyday lives.

The current pandemic has forced a shift in the workforce as more businesses are adopting the work from home approach.

However, it’s rather easy for the 9-5 grind to become dull and repetitive. Days are filled with back-to-back meetings that possibly eat into break time and lunch hours.

In some cases, people might be overworked, as working and leisure hours are blurred.

This ultimately results in a rather mundane work from home experience, but with Heineken 0.0, your work hours are now happy hours!

Starting from 23 November to 31 December, now you can enjoy a beer while you work from home by simply inviting admin@heineken.com.my to your virtual meetings, at least three days in advance.

Once your calendar invite has been accepted by Heineken® 0.0, you and your meeting attendees can look forward to 4 free cans of Heineken 0.0 delivered right to your doorsteps!

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Heineken 0.0 with brand new look

“We decided to launch Heineken 0.0 in new cans as we saw that more consumers preferred to enjoy a beer or two at home. This also goes hand in hand with our aim to open up new drinking occasions with Heineken 0.0, especially as working from home is now a new normal for many of us. So what better way to refresh your work from home experience than to kick back with a beer in hand by inviting Heineken 0.0 to your virtual meetings,” said Pablo Chabot, Marketing Director of Heineken Malaysia Berhad.

Defined by its refreshing fruity notes and soft malty body, Heineken 0.0 provides a perfectly balanced taste.

It is double brewed like Heineken® with the alcohol being gently removed and blended with natural flavours.

This provides a choice for non-Muslim consumers, aged 21 and above, who enjoy the taste of beer but not necessarily the effects of alcohol, to enjoy the same great Heineken® taste anytime, anywhere!

Taking cues from the growing cultural trend around moderate alcohol consumption and living a more balanced lifestyle, it was first introduced in 2017 in the Netherlands, Spain and Germany, followed by the UK and France.

Heineken 0.0 then made its debut in Asia in 2018, by launching in Singapore, followed by Thailand in early 2019 and Malaysia in June last year.

The drink is now serving it’s same great taste in 39 countries worldwide, including Europe, North America, and Australia.

Ready to refresh your work from home experience? Now you can relax and sip through your virtual meetings with an ice cold Heineken 0.0, in a new 330ml can that contains only 69 calories per serve. Find out more about T&C and delivery on the Heineken® website.

The all-new Heineken 0.0 can is also available nationwide, in selected hyper/supermarkets and convenience stores.

For more information and updates, log on to the Heineken® website or follow Heineken® on Instagram (@HeinekenMY) and Facebook.

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Local Vegetables in Sarawak You Should Know

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Because kolo mee and laksa are not the only things that taste good in Sarawak…..

terung pipit ikan pusu anchovies

Often times, when we talk about Sarawak cuisine we do not give enough credit to the local vegetables in Sarawak.

While some (most?) might consider vegetables their kryptonite, Sarawak vegetables are far more interesting than the supermarket variety of carrots and cabbages.

In Sarawak, we have a variety of local vegetables that not only taste delicious, but they have different texture, taste and even colour.

Here are some of local vegetables in Sarawak that you might have seen in the local markets.  

Midin

fresh green jungle produce midin bracken fern

Midin or bracken fern (Stenochlaena palustris) is basically the ‘Beyonce’ of local vegetables in Sarawak. Even though it’s supposedly only found here, everybody across Malaysia (and those who have eaten here) knows about it.

It has a beautiful spiral shaped tip that is softer than its crunchy bottom half.

It is a wild vegetable that typically grows in open spaces, usually in peat soil.

As a wild vegetable, it is said that midin is resistant towards pesticides.  

When visiting here, it is typically recommended to try midin cooked with belacan (shrimp paste). However, some people might opt to have it cooked with just garlic. These days however, you can see some local restaurants serving it as a cold salad with shrimp, slices of shallots, vinegar and chillies.

Paku-pakis

fresh green jungle produce wild fern paku pakis

This wild fern is similar to midin as you can normally find it growing in the wild.

However, unlike midin, it has a different appearance. The fronds of the wild fern is a bit looser and more elongated.

And much similar to midin, this vegetable is normally stir-fried with belacan. It has a crunchy texture.

Paku kubuk 

fresh green jungle produce paku kubuk wild fern

Paku kubuk might look almost similar to midin and paku pakis. However, unlike the other two, its distinguished feature is its hairy white stem.

Like the other two ferns, paku kubuk is a wild vegetable that grows alongside paku pakis. It can be easily be found on the roadside.

To prepare this dish, most would cook as a soup with garlic clove and ginger. Some even prefer to blanch it and eat it with sambal.

However, unlike the other two, paku kubuk has a slightly bitter taste and a softer, spongier texture.

Daun timun (cucumber leaves)

Next on our list of local vegetables in Sarawak is daun timun. It is pretty easy to distinguish due to the triangular shape of its leaf and squishy velvety texture.

Typically, this vegetable is best prepared as a soup. Generally, some would prefer adding other vegetables such as baby corn or cucumber.

Daun ensabi (mustard greens)

mustard greens sarawak

For those who might not enjoy bitter flavours, then daun ensabi or Sarawak mustard green might not be the one for you.

Typically, this local vegetable is cooked with belacan and garlic or simply made into soup.

In Sarawak, sometimes kasam ensabi or pickled mustard green is also another way to enjoy this vegetable.

To prepare kasam ensabi, the leaves are rubbed together with coarse salt until they are completely wilted.

Once wilted, the vegetable is squeezed until all the moisture is pressed out and later kept in a container.

Borneo sour brinjal or Terong Dayak

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Terong Dayak or terong assam (Solanum ferox) is another popular choice of local vegetables in Sarawak.

One surprising fact about this round orange vegetable is that it is part of the Protected Geographic Indication in Sarawak even though it can be found all over Borneo.

Typically, Terong Dayak is prepared in various ways. However, most would probably agree that the best way it prepared is as a soup since it has a natural tangy taste.

Daun ubi (cassava leaves)

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A local favourite, the cassava leaf or ‘daun ubi’.

Daun ubi or cassava leaves is a common vegetable dish in Sarawak. Typically, you can find them already finely grounded and packed in local markets.

While some may prefer the simple method of stir frying daun ubi tumbuk, it is a versatile vegetable that can prepared in various ways.

Terung pipit

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Terung pipit or Solanum torvum is another local vegetable in Sarawak that you should know.

As the name might have suggested it, it is a cousin of the Terong Dayak.

Also known as turkey berry, terung pipit looks almost similar to green peas. It has a bitter taste and a slighty squishy texture when cooked.

Typically, terung pipit is an added ingredient to various dishes. For instance, in Sarawak, terung pipit is goes well with daun ubi tumbuk.

Other than that, it can also be added to fish curry dishes or even beef stew.

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Sixth BIBCo back to showcase local and international beads

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    Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (third right) and Sarawak Tourism Board CEO Sharzede Salleh Askor (centre) stopping by BIBCo’s promotional booth during the launch of WAK 2019 Calendar last month. Also seen here are WAK festival directors Donald Tan (far left) and Marina Tan (second left), Crafthub directors Lyn Alhady (third left), Heidi Munan (second right), Rosemarie Wong (far right). Donald is also a Crafthub director. (Photo courtesy of Jee Photography.)
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    The Beads Abuzz Bazaar at Plaza Merdeka will satisfy fashionistas and collectors alike. (Photo courtesy of Crafthub.)
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    Facilitator Pam Annesley shows participants how to work with metal clay in her workshop during the last BIBCo in 2017. (Photo courtesy of Crafthub.)

KUCHING: Borneo International Beads Conference (BIBCo) 2019 is back with their sixth installment, this time with the theme “Beads of our Time.”

Held at The Waterfront Hotel from October 4 to 6, participants can expect a fruitful time, sharing knowledge and expertise in the conference, and get some hands-on time at the various workshops available.

Conference sessions are broken down into five topics. ‘Beads in History’ will feature talks on Viking Beads in the Ancient World Trade (Torben Sode), and Chevron and Millefiorie Beads of India (Dr Alok Kanungo).

The session on ‘Beads from Far Away Lands’ will have Dr Marsha Bol talking about Lakota Sioux Beadwork of the Central Plains USA, as well as Niyati Kakadia talking about the Living Bead Cultures of Gujarat, India. This will be followed by the third conference session on ‘Beads, Science and the Law’, featuring Dr Margaret Chan talking about how ‘Nothing is wasted – Making Beads from Sago Processing Residue’. Ritu Sethi and Dr Moe Chiba will come on to talk about Traditional Art Designs and Intellectual Property Rights.

On the final day, conference delegates will hear about the Bead Culture of the Maloh People of Kalimantan from Siti Musrika, and The Beaded Parang of Belawan from Dora Jok under the “Beads From Borneo” session. This will be followed by “Beads and Textiles”, where Dr Linda McIntosh will be discussing Beaded Textiles of the Katu People of South Laos and Central Highlands of Vietnam, while Christopher Lim Zamora will talk about Beaded Garments of Bagob Tagawawa in Davaoi Region, Philippines.

There will also be a total of 22 workshops to choose from, ranging from working with traditional beads and creating your own jewellery to opportunities to consult with industry professionals. 

This includes a workshop on How to Mount a Bead Exhibition, facilitated by Marsha Bol from the USA, who will show participants the best ways of highlighting their treasured beads.

Full details and schedule for all workshops are available at crafthub.com.my/bibco2019-2.

Borneo International Beads Abuzz Bazaar will also take place at the same time at Plaza Merdeka, featuring beads and craft vendors from around the world.

BIBCo is organised by Crafthub, a non-profit organisation which aims to promote and market Sarawak handicrafts in an economically viable way, with international standard quality control.

For more further information and updates, visit crafthub.com.my/bibco2019-2 or follow ‘CrafthubSdnBhd’ on Facebook.

This event is part of What About Kuching 2019. For more information or to download our calendar, visit aboutkuching.com.  Programme booklet are also available for free across Kuching. For updates, find WAK on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter under @aboutkuching. Join the buzz by hashtagging #WAK2019, #WAK and #aboutkuching.

Try something different and #CubaStyleBaru at Nando’s

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Nando’s famous flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken has been a fan favourite for over two decades and they’re excited to share a new look for their new menu!

With their new campaign #CubaStyleBaru, Nando’s reveals the different ways to enjoy this fan favourite.

Craving for flavourful chicken, spicy, sweet and spicy, sour and spicy, something healthy or something indulgent, Nando’s has something for everyone. Their range of PERi-PERi offerings and flavours – Lemon and Heb, Mild, Hot, Extra Hot shows a variety if PERi-PERi goodness that will fill your bellies and satisfy all your cravings.

A gastronomic journey with #CubaStyleBaru

First of all, start to whet your appetite with a slew of Nando’s Fire-starters. For fans with cheesy tastes, give the new PERi-PERi Cheesy Chips a try. It is made of a bowl of Nando’s PERi-PERi chips topped with tomato and corn and smothered in the unique PERi-PERi cheese sauce. If that is not cheesy enough for you, there is also the Garlic Cheesy Pita.

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PERi-PERi Cheesy Chips

For something slightly healthier, the Sweet Potato Chips with PERinaise will satisfy your carb craving. Meanwhile, the Caesar Salad is great for those looking for a healthy vege friendly meal or starter. Besides, there is also the 4 Wingettes and Drummettes.

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Caesar Salad

Apart from the 1/4 flame-grilled PERi-PERi Chicken with two sides, Nando’s has you covered with more filling, juicy meals.

Under the campaign #CubaStyleBaru, customers can choose from the new Crispy Cheese Burger, Pita or Wrap. It’s your favourite PERi-PERi flavour smothered over a chicken or veggie patty in a toasted Portuguese roll, pita or wrap with some fresh salad.

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Crispy Cheese Burger
CubaStyleBaru
Crispy Chicken Wrap

For those who love the taste of dark meat, they can indulge in the Espetada- succulent cubes of chicken thigh between roasted capsicum and lathered in the PERi-PERi flavour of your choice.

If you can’t have your meal without rice, the Chicken Salsa Bowl is right up your alley- juicy chicken tenders with a unique mix of salsa on a bed of Mediterranean Bowl.

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Chicken Salsa Bowl

Meanwhile, the Cataplana Originale is a rice-filled showstopper on its own and is great for sharing. It is served an authentic copper dish with PERi-PERi chicken, grilled vegetables, Mediterranean Rice and special Cataplana Sauce.

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Cataplana Originale

Instead of the bottomless soft drink, try out the new drinks under #CubaStyleBaru; their refreshing designers drinks called Mango Fresca, Sparkling Apple, Citrus Iced Tea and Tropical Fruitea.

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Nando’s Designer drinks and signature PERi-PERi Sauce.

To round off your heart meal at Nando’s, enjoy their desserts of a cup of Iced Galao, Mocha or Chocolate and Caramel Cheesecake or Red Velvet Cake.

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Nando’s Red Velvet Cake (top) and Caramel Cheesecake (bottom)

For more information on all things Nando’s PERi-PERi and their #CubaStyleBaru campaign, visit www.nandos.com.my or Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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20 things to do during the Heart of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III

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For those who dream of an authentic adventure through Borneo, the Heart of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III will take you on a truly unique adventure where you can relive history, experience culture firsthand and appreciate the stewardship of nature .

Organised by the Alliance of the Indigenous Peoples of the Highlands of Borneo or Formadat, this year the event will be happening from June 27 till July 10.

Overall, there are seven packages for participants to choose from, ranging from moderate to strenuous level.

For five days to two weeks, participants will roam the jungles of the Borneo highlands in a cross-border adventure that will take you to Long Semadoh (Sarawak), Long Pasia (Sabah), Ba Kelalan (Sarawak), Bario (Sarawak) and South Krayan (Indonesia) and Krayan Induk (Indonesia).

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A view of the hilly landscape and paddy farms from a plane.

The event is limited to 50 participants only. Each stage of the Eco Challenge comes with activities that take participants on a journey in the footsteps of the ancestors of the highland peoples.

During a trip organised by WWF-Indonesia to the Krayan Highlands (Apr 2-5), KajoMag and several other media practitioners from Indonesia had the opportunity to experience some of these Eco Challenge activities.

So here are 20 things to do when you join the two-week long Heart Of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III:
1.Come and appreciate the beauty of Heart of Borneo highlands’ biodiversity
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Pitcher plants are commonly found at these central Borneo regions.

Heart of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III will take participants through the Maligan, Kelabit and Krayan Highlands.

These highlands offer unique flora and fauna as they stand about more than 760m above sea level.

Though divided by political boundaries, the Heart of Borneo Highlands share the same beautiful landscape and biodiversity.

From pitcher plants, orchids to other various vegetation forest, hiking through the highlands is definitely different from passing through hot and humid Borneo lowlands.

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Locally known as Anggerik Hitam (black orchid), this plant is also found in Sumatera and Borneo.
2.Experience the culture of indigenous people living in the Heart of Borneo Highlands
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Experience the rich culture of Lun Bawang and Lundayeh people of Borneo Highlands.

The Heart of Borneo Highlands are home to the indigenous Lun Bawang people in Sarawak, or Lundayeh as they are called in neighbouring state of Sabah and Krayan highland in Kalimantan, Indonesia.

Besides them, the Kelabit and Sa’ban people have also been living in the highlands for centuries.

In the Ba Kelalan highlands for example, there is a population of around 1,030 people, with the majority being Lun Bawang.

Meanwhile located 1,110m above sea level in the Kelabit Highlands, the majority of the 1,200 people who call the place home are the Kelabit people.

Coming down to the Kalimantan side of South Krayan, there are about 2,400 people of the Lundayeh and Sa’ban with a small of group people.

Over the course of Heart Of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III, participants will have the opportunity to visit some the villages of these indigenous people.

3.Take a thing or two about the traditional knowledge of the local people
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Harvested dried ant nest.

Speaking of indigenous people, the Eco Challenge will give participants the opportunities to learn more about them and their heritage.

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A hot glass of ant nest tea.

Hence, take this chance to learn about their traditional knowledge, especially in medicine. For instance, did you know that you could make tea out of dried ants’ nest? This happens to be a particular delicacy among some of the Lundayeh people in Krayan, and it is believed that this tea can lower blood pressure and be beneficial to your heart.

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The traditional method of boiling ant nest.
4.Enjoy the local fruits and vegetables
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Tarap or terap ( Artocarpus odoratissimus ).

There’s a saying: “Only lazy people go hungry in the jungle”, showing how important the jungle is as a source of food.

The Borneo Highlands are like free grocery shops that Mother Nature offers for the local people.

By 4 o’clock in the afternoon, you can see some of the women with their traditional woven baskets at their backs looking for wild ferns and vegetables to make dinner.

Heart Of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III gives participants the perfect opportunity to enjoy the local fruits such as tarap and wild ferns such as sayur pakis fresh from its source.

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Ellias showing how you can eat one of the edible orchids.
5.Listen to the local legends
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A hill in Krayan which was named after Yuvai Semaring. Legend has it Yuvai watched out for his enemies from the top of this hill.

Although the Lun Bawang/ Lundayeh people are separated by international borders, they still share the same roots, including legends.

It doesn’t matter if you are on the Malaysian side or Indonesian side, each has its own legend of Upai Semaring (spelled Yuvai Semaring in Indonesia).

Believed to be as tall as a giant, this local legendary hero has traces all over the Heart of Borneo Highlands.

The local Lun Bawang and Lundayeh people believed he was their protector defending them from their enemies, especially headhunters from other communities.

6.Visit ancestral burial grounds
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One of the ancient burial grounds at Terang Baru.

Besides local legends, the Lun Bawang and Lundayeh peoples also shared similar ancestral burial rituals.

Hence, you can find ancient burial grounds in both countries. Nobody is 100% certain who some these tombs belonged to, but everyone is sure they belonged to important figures in their communities.

One of the stages of the Eco Challenge is to visit an old burial site called ‘Lengutan Anak Adi’ to see the ancient remnants of skeletons and broken jars.

This is because like most ancient communities in Borneo, jars were important as a a secondary burial tool in sending off their dead.

7.Take a look at the rock art of Heart of Borneo Highlands

Another important archaeological site included in the Heart Of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III is an ancient stone carving site by the legendary giant Upai Semaring.

Although there are similar carving sites found in the Krayan Highlands, the one included as part of this Eco Challenge itinerary is the one found in Ba Kelalan.

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A stone carving made by Upai Semaring in Long Midang.
8.Have a taste of the local cuisine

Since participants will have the chance to stay at homestays together with the local people, it serve as a great chance for them to have a taste of local cooking.

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The brown rice of Krayan highlands.

If you had the chance, give biter (vegetable porridge) or any of their traditional cakes a try. They are definitely a new gastronomic experience!

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Biter, a traditional cuisine of Lundayeh people made from rice and vegetables.
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A variety of Lundayeh cakes.
9.Enjoy the beautiful scenery of paddy farms

While half of the beauty of Borneo Highlands landscape comes from the misty highlands, another half comes from its vast paddy farms.

This scenery is something one should experience on your own to appreciate its serene beauty.

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10.Learn about how mountain salt is processed
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Salt processing at Long Midang.

Have you ever wondered how people living miles from the sea such as the Kelabit and Krayan Highlands get their salt from in ancient times?

All thanks to Mother Nature, these people did not rely on trade to buy salt to season their food.

There are salt springs spread out in several locations all over the highlands. The communities then came together to process them for personal consumption as well as to sell as an extra source of income.

Though there are several villages had its own salt processing house, the participants will visit the one in Long Midang near Indonesia-Malaysia border.

11.Watch how the local people make soap

Again, have you wondered how the olden communities washed themselves? During this Heart Of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III, participants will have a chance to make a quick stop at a local soap production site.

There, the locals use Tenem tree essential oil extracts to make natural soap.

12.Pick up an indigenous musical instrument or two
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Ellias Yesaya, Head of The Cultural Field School playing bamboo flute.

A visit to the Krayan Highland during this Heart Of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III would not be complete without a visit to the Cultural Field School, Terang Baru.

It is a space for cultural celebrations and to learn traditional music and dances.

From string instruments to traditional percussion, the school gives its visitors a rare opportunity to learn the musical heritage of Lundayeh people.

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The Cultural Field School
13.Say a prayer at Prayer Mountain

While taking a tour around Bario Valley, visitors will have the opportunity to trek to the top of Prayer Mountain.

During Bario Valley stage, visitors will also have a chance to visit the oldest longhouse settlement in Bario as well as the biggest green energy farm in Sarawak.

14.Learn a thing or two about World War II history in the area
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Local guide Alex Ballang pointing out the helipads built by the allied forces during WWII.

Unknown to most people, both Kelabit and Krayan highlands played an important role during the Second World War against the Japanese.

Talk to the local guides or villagers, some might still have stories which part of the highlands were used as helipads for allied forces and how Tom Harrisson and several Z Special Unit operatives parachuted onto the plateau.

15.Enjoy the beauty of sunrise and sunset from different angle everyday on the highlands
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You could always wait for the morning mist to be lifted.

For this, it does not matter if you sign up for the five-day or the two-week challenge. Since the participants are moving from one stage to another, you can enjoy the beauty of the sunrise and sunset from different angles everyday through out the event.

While sunrise is usually difficult to see because of the thick morning mist at the highlands, one could still enjoy the scenery on how the mist is slowly lifted revealing gorgeous view of the highlands.

Plus if the weather is good, each view sunset is just unique and breathtaking on its own.

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Catch this sunset at Krayan highlands
16.Pick up a set of binoculars and do some bird watching

It doesn’t matter if you are an amateur birdwatcher or not, these Borneo highlands are the perfect place to do some birdwatching, so don’t miss out on that.

There have been sightings of rare and endemic Dulit frogmouth (Batrachostomus harterti) as well as the Black Oriole (Oriolus hosii) in the area. Perhaps you might be the lucky one to spot them during this
Heart Of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III.

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You never know what you might spot while trekking at these highlands.
17.Come and take a stroll on the rocky beach of Borneo

From the mountain to the sea, Heart of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III has it all!

One of the final stops of the challenge is a trip to Tusan Beach in Miri. The beach is famous for its horse-like rock formation and the blue tears phenomenon.

18.Visit one of the oldest human settlements in Borneo

While in Miri, the participants will also make a short visit Niah National Park.

The star attractions here are the Painted Cave featuring prehistoric drawings and site where remains of human skeleton from 40,000 years ago were found.

19.Come and watch the Milky Way without the light pollution

Calling all stargazers out there! Imagine having to gaze on the Milky Way without any light pollution.

From KajoMag’s first-hand experience, one can look up at the sky and just stare at it for hours from the Borneo highlands.

It is a breathtaking sight that you can never get from the city. To enhance your experience even more, download a star chart app on your smartphone before you go and see how many constellations you can spot during the event.

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Enjoy the skies of Borneo Higlands without any light pollution.
20. Join to unwind and let the nature of Heart of Borneo highlands heal you

There are plenty of scientific studies out there that have proven being outdoor in the nature is one of the best medicine to improve your mental health.

It lowers your chances of getting depressed as well as the risk of having mental illness.

Furthermore, making trips to the forest can actually improve your immunity. So, what are you waiting for? It is time to sign up for Heart of Borneo Highlands Eco Challenge III!

For more information, download this brochure.

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Unimas and Limkokwing shine on first night of AMS 2019

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The long-awaited Alta Moda Sarawak 2019 (AMS 2019) kicked off its first night on March 7 with designs by students from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) and Limkokwing University of Creative Technology.

Officiated by Sarawak Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Datuk Snowdan Lawan, this inaugural fashion and lifestyle event saw three designers from each university pull off a dynamic runway show, showcasing diverse looks, from dramatic evening gowns to chic street styles.

AMS 2019: Bringing high-fashion to your doorstep

AMS chairperson Datin Esther Mujan Balan, who was regal in her canary yellow assymetrical evening gown, said that she looked forward to Alta Moda Sarawak being a successful annual event that can elevate Sarawak to a leading fashion hub in Southeast Asia, on top of attracting potential tourism.

Esther added, “We hope that events like these, our Sarawak designers and fashion model talents will not need to travel so far to showcase their amazing creations because Alta Moda Sarawak will be able to generate crowds and visitors to Sarawak ranging from among fashion enthusiast, the industry people, fashion magazines and medias, and retail buyers.”

Besides the 21 designers who will be showcasing among the best that Sarawak Malaysia has to offer, AMS 2019 also had international models striding around the runaway among the 24 models from Sarawak.

A boost for Sarawak tourism

Meanwhile, Snowdan, who graced the event in a striking suit with gold embroidered feather motifs, stated that the Sarawak government took pride in having Alta Moda Sarawak as another tourist attraction for the state.

“The organising of the three-day event will complement our efforts to boost tourists’ arrival in conjunction with the ‘Visit Sarawak Campaign’.”

He was also pleased to announce that the efforts in promoting the campaign had shown good results so far even though it was only entering its third month.

Snowdan added, “The number of visitors to Sarawak especially from other states in Semenanjung has dramatically increased to 68% as compared to January 2018. The overall arrivals itself have also increased by 10.72% with the total of 326, 347 visitors.”

About Alta Moda Sarawak

AMS 2019 is a brand platform for Sarawakian designers to come together showcase their talents and creations in the field of arts, culture and craft.

Besides the fashion show, the event also featured art exhibitions by The Accidental Artist, Hasbah Saufi, Mary Ann Vaz and 9-year-old artist Azaira Mohd Nizam from the Dyslexia Association.

In addition to that, there are diamond jewellery by Diamente, songket weaving by Tanoti, Sarawak Malay Keringkam embroidering by Sazalia Warisan Craft, handbags by Sarawak Penan Helping Hands and bead accessories by Punggu creations on display.

The foyer area opens daily from 4pm daily till the show’s closing time.

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KajoAsks: Making a social impact through art with Mary Anne Vaz

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Self-taught artist Mary Anne Vaz was born in Penang, but she has called Sarawak home since she married her Kelabit husband.

She uses various mediums in her art including batik, acrylic, water colour and pastels.

A prolific painter like one of her idols Vincent Van Gogh, her work has been exhibited in various places such as Lingnan Museum of Art in China, Pustaka Miri and Saradise Gallery, Kuching.

She now teaches both young and old from an art center at her home.

Not content to just paint, she, together with her art students, have started a social project whereby proceeds from sales of their paintings will go to buying story books for Penan children in Ulu Baram.

Recently, KajoMag had the opportunity to learn more about the artist behind the paintings and her inspirations.
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Vaz and some of her paintings.
KajoMag: I understand that you started your journey in art as early as six years old. What do you remember about your paintings as a kid and what made you want to paint?

Mary Anne Vaz: I attended kindergarten where my teacher, a Chinese man gave me a chance to paint. I painted myself climbing a tree. Then I watched my brother paint big canvases with oil paints. I developed a style that was similar to oil painting in that I used very thick paints.

One day my dad told me, “You won a gold medal.” The concept of winning was not in my experience and I replied “ I don’t want a gold medal.” Then, it appeared on TV and in the news. It was the Queens Gold Medal. 
       
I didn’t have any art books or art teachers. All I had was paint, brushes and paper. But there was a book on the human anatomy. From there, I became interested in painting human figures. So, most of my artwork features human figures.              

I am fascinated with the hornbill dances of the Orang Ulu. Several of my paintings are on the dances, tribal attire, and everyday life of the Kelabits. I have also painted the legends of the Kelabits.

Then, I met the famous tattoo artist Ernesto Kalum. I became fascinated with his tattoos and have painted three paintings featuring him, one of them being “Warrior of Peace”.

KajoMag: How would you describe your style as an artist? Are there any painters that you particularly look up to?

Mary Anne Vaz: I am a symbolic artist. My paintings all carry deep messages. For example “ Warrior of Peace” which features Ernesto without his tattoos, without the sword, conveys the message that a leader must lay down his weapons and be vulnerable in order to lead his people to peace and face a brighter future.

I painted this after the summit between Trump and Kim Jong Un. The USA and North Korea meeting was to me a step towards disarmament. This is true courage. A warrior with no weapon is a truly brave warrior. 

I look up to several artists. The first one was Chuah Thean Teng, the Father of Batik, who showed that this traditional style of fabric painting could be fine art. I studied his techniques and created a style of contemporary batik with traditional processes.

The second one is Vincent Van Gogh. I collected books on him. He was a prolific painter and I identify with him as I am also a prolific painter.

The third one is Raphael Scott Abeng from Kuching. He inspired me as a friend and I find his paintings unique and witty social commentary.

The fourth one is Tan Wei Kheng. He is a dear friend; he stretched my first canvas and has always been supportive.

Pustaka produced an e-book on Tan Wei Kheng called Discover Sarawak and I was the researcher and writer of his art. He is also a symbolic artist; his paintings being social commentary and social documentation.

KajoMag: Are there certain places you feel most inspired to paint? If so, where?

Mary Anne Vaz: The place that most inspired me to paint was Bario. Twenty-nine years ago when my eldest son was born , my husband and I walked 12 hours through the jungle from Bario to Pa’ Mada to have the traditional name changing ceremony.

I remember the trees being tall and the floor of the jungle covered with a carpet of leaves. Later, I made a sketch of my father-in-law’s parang and its tree bark sheath.

I then painted it in contemporary batik style. It is now in the Sarawakiana collection of Pustaka Sarawak. I painted the fireplace in “Kelabit Lady” which was exhibited in China in the Lingnam Museum of Art in Foshan in October 2018. 

KajoMag: Can you name the biggest lesson you’ve learnt from being a part of the Sarawak art industry?

Mary Anne Vaz: The biggest lesson I have learned in being part of the Sarawak Art industry is that an artist must be dynamic, keep learning and growing. No doubt skills with brushes are important, but digital skills are vital to share our art and connect across nations.

Being multilingual is also important. When I went to China I prepared myself by learning to speak Mandarin.

Alta Moda Sarawak is a good example of how artists are being dynamic. Coming together to move forward. The leaders in Alta Moda Sarawak have created a bridge to tomorrow.

KajoMag: Care to share your hope for young artists in Sarawak?

Mary Anne Vaz: My art studio in Miri grooms young artists from as young as six years old. So, my hope is that parents take art seriously.

Give your child a chance to use the correct tools to paint. Give your child a good art tutor to mentor his growth. Let young artists develop their own style. I am happy that in my studio there are several young artists with very high potential.

I share my own techniques with them and encourage them to have their own vision. Parents have been very supportive in giving them time and resources to grow. What we need is more opportunities to exhibit the work of young artists.

KajoMag: Tell us more about your social project to buy books and reference books for the Penan children in Ulu Baram.

Mary Anne Vaz: My students and I started sending books to schools in Ulu Baram with the help of a friend who travels there regularly.

Each time my students sell a painting for RM50, they voluntarily donate RM10 to buy a story book. I also buy books that promote early reading such as books using phonics.

I will put about 20 books in a bag and give to my friend who takes them to the teachers there.

When I sell my paintings. I also buy some books for this purpose. I am thinking that story books are a source of joy, different from school books.
The Penan children and other children who live far from town may not have a chance to enjoy story books. Besides these, I have also bought encyclopedias for them.

About Alta Moda Sarawak

Interested viewers can catch Vaz and her works during this upcoming Alta Moda Sarawak.

To be held from March 7-9 at the old State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Building in Kuching, 24 designers and brands will be taking part in this event which aims to highlight the many colours of Sarawak’s cultures and diversities.

Check more of Vaz’s works on her website or follow her on Instagram.

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Silat, pantun and many more at Kuching Heritage Race 2019

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There were a lot of things going on other than racing at the fourth edition of Kuching Heritage Race (KHR).

Themed ‘Darul Hana Revisited’, the one-of-a-kind race kicked off at Chung Hua Middle School No 4 last Saturday on Feb 16.

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About Kuching Heritage Race 2019

Almost like a small-scale Amazing Race, the race had a treasure hunt and maps were provided for participants to find stations or control points.

Every team made up of two to five people was given a ‘passport’ with clues for the location of each station. (About 60 teams took part, making this treasure hunt really competitive 😄)

At each station or checkpoint, the participants had to complete missions related to local culture and heritage.

Some of these tasks included performing the Malay martial art of silat, playing the kompang, making roti canai, completing a pantun and making air mawar.

Additionally, there were ‘brainy quizzes’ on the history and heritage of Kuching at some stations. Teams with the correct answers had a few minutes taken off their running time.

For the first time, this year’s Kuching Heritage Race took the participants through residential areas such as Kampung Muda Hashim, Kampung Dagok Timur, Kampung No. 4 and others.

With that, the race was able to introduce participants, both local and non-local, to Kuching’s heritage sites.

The team that was able locate all the stations and complete all the tasks in the shortest time was the winner.

Last year’s champion, the Sarawak Convention Bureau, was able to hold on to their title and become the overall winner once again.

Kuching Heritage Run is also aimed to raise money for deserving underfunded projects.

Proceeds from this year’s race were channeled to several organisations including Single Mothers Association, Kuching Parkinson Society, Sarawak Society for The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA).

Kuching Heritage Race was listed on Sarawak Tourism Board (STB)’s calendar of events.

Also present during the event were permanent secretary to Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) Mayor Datuk Abang Abdul Wahab Abang Julai, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports permanent secretary Hii Chang Kee and Brooke Trust director Jason Brooke.

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