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Try something different and #CubaStyleBaru at Nando’s

Published on August 22, 2019

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.

Try something different and #CubaStyleBaru at Nando’s — 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Published on April 9, 2019

Travel/News & Features

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).

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

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.

2.Experience the culture of indigenous people living in the Heart 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

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

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.

4.Enjoy the local fruits and vegetables

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.

5.Listen to the local legends

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

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.

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.

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

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.

10.Learn about how mountain salt is processed

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Unimas and Limkokwing shine on first night of AMS 2019

Published on March 8, 2019

Lifestyle/News & Features

Unimas and Limkokwing shine on first night of AMS 2019

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.

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

Published on February 27, 2019

Lifestyle/News & Features

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.

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

Silat, pantun and many more at Kuching Heritage Race 2019

Published on February 19, 2019

News & Features

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.

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.

The Memorial Clock Tower at Jalan Padungan: Sarawak’s first war memorial

Published on February 13, 2019

News & Features

If you pass by the roundabout at Jalan Padungan, you will see a clock tower behind the arch. Have you ever wondered about the story behind it?

For most, it is just a simple clock tower, but it is actually Sarawak’s first war memorial.

The Memorial Clock Tower at Jalan Padungan: Sarawak’s first war memorial — The memorial clock tower at Jalan Padungan

The memorial clock tower at Jalan Padungan was declared open in November 1952 to commemorate all Sarawak residents who lost their lives in World War II.

The idea of building a memorial clock tower initially came from former Chief Secretary of Sarawak, J.B. Archer.

He spent years as a civil internee at the Batu Lintang Camp.

To commemorate those who lost their lives during the war, he suggested something simple like a clock tower would be fitting.

He also suggested that a public donation should be collected to built it.

However, there were mixed reactions to this idea as people were still recovering from the effects of war, psychologically, politically and economically.

People did not have much money at the time and thought that any funds collected should be spent on an agricultural institution for the youth.

It was not until 1950 when the idea resurfaced.

At that time, there was an announcement of a design competition for a memorial clock tower at Jalan Padungan to be erected.

It was won by Egbert Christopher Dhing, a draughtsman in the Public Works Department.

Like many others, Egbert had been personally affected by the war; his brother Hubert Dhing had been captured and executed by Japanese forces.

Remembrance Day, 11th November 1951

The memorial clock tower at Jalan Padungan was unveiled by then governor Sir Anthony Abell on Remembrance Day, 11^th November 1951.

By 9.15 am, a large crowd of official guests and spectators had gathered by the memorial clock tower at Jalan Padungan.

According to The Sarawak Tribune in an article published on November 12, Union Jacks and Sarawak Flags were the only decoration around the Memorial Clock Tower which was surrounded by guards of honour formed by the Sarawak Constabulary, Boy Scouts and Sea Scouts; officials, invited guests and a large congregation made up of members of the public.

Abell, accompanied by A.D.C. Abang Othman arrived at 9.30 am and proceeded to the base of the mkmorial where the former took the Royal Salute where he was quoted as saying:

“This clock tower which I am about to unveil commemorates the men and women of every race and of every creed who gave their lives for Sarawak in the war against the Japanese. We who were spared, in humility and gratitude pay this tribute to their fortitude and sacrifice and dedicate this memorial to their undying memory. On us falls the heavy responsibility to make sure, as far as lies within our power, that their sacrifice was not in vain. We pray that future generations of Sarawak citizens will pass this place in peace and security, and staying a while to read the inscriptions hereon, may feel something of our pride and gratitude for the heavy price that was paid for their freedom and happiness.”

The memorial clock tower was used for the annual Remembrance Day service held on 11th November.

The clock tower remained as the official war memorial until 1961 when a new one was built at the Central Padang.

This was because the authorities thought that the space was too cramped for parades.

Apart from that, the space was also too crowded as it was too close to the market space.

Around 1960, the authorities began thinking of building another war memorial somewhere more spacious, and Central Padang was chosen.

While the new site may appear to be perfect, it however has problems.

During special occasions, the new site is usually blocked by temporary structures such as grandstands or stages, so, the memorial services would usually be held at the Brooke Memorial in front of the Courthouse building in Main Bazaar.

Alta Moda Sarawak could be a successful yearly event for Sarawak: Abdul Karim

Published on February 13, 2019

News & Features

While Sarawak has firmly established itself as THE place to go for world music, and as a Culture, Adventure and Nature destination (did you know Gunung Mulu National Park was a UNESCO World Heritage site?), it aims to be the leading fashion hub in this region with the upcoming lifestyle and fashion event ALTA MODA SARAWAK.

Sarawak Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said he was confident that ALTA MODA SARAWAK would become a successful yearly event to promote the state as a leading fashion hub in Asean and beyond.

“The fashion industry is a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide. This is because it involves a big group of people coming from all work and backgrounds, including those from production to design and marketing.

“There are also those who are making a good living out of writing, analyzing, shooting, commenting and blogging about fashion,” he said during a recent press conference at Restaurant Budaya Sarawak.

He added that the event could attract potential tourism and merchandise buyers domestically and internationally in support of Sarawakian designers and artists.

“It is therefore good for ALTA MODA SARAWAK to have the objective of promoting Sarawak as a state of diversity with different ethnic groups and cultures.”

Additionally, Abdul Karim believed that the event could be one of the catalysts and key players in helping to boost tourist traffic to Sarawak under the state’s tourism initiatives, which is why the Ministry suggested moving it from October last year to March 2019.

“This is to give more time for the organisers to make it a grand affair in conjunction with our ‘Visit Sarawak Campaign’ objectives.”

He also noted that ALTA MODA SARAWAK might be one of the last few events to be held at the old State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Building before it will be closed for renovations to transform it into a performing arts centre.

Alta Moda Sarawak could be a successful yearly event for Sarawak: Abdul Karim — Abdul Karim (center) speaking to the press at Restaurant Budaya Sarawak on Feb 2.

ALTA MODA SARAWAK as a brand platform for Sarawak’s designers

The Sarawak fashion industry has seen a gradual boom over recent years.

Abdul Karim said, “We too have our very own designers whose meteoric rise is something to be proud of. These include names like Paul Carling, Anna Sue, Ben Nazry, Melinda Omar, Sereni & Shentel, Latip’s Collection and more. With ALTA MODA SARAWAK, I hope that their star continues to rise.”

The organisers of ALTA MODA SARAWAK are confident that the designers taking part will be able to establish themselves as the fashion and lifestyle brands to be reckoned with and help propel the growth of Sarawak’s fashion industry.

“This development will, in return, be able to attract more tourist traffic into Sarawak and create demand for a growing domestic industry among the talented artisans and skillful beads craftsmen,” he said.

Meanwhile, ALTA MODA SARAWAK organising chairperson Datin Esther Mujan Balan said the organising team was excited to be holding the event in conjunction with Visit Sarawak Campaign, with the support and partnership from the Ministry of Tourism Sarawak and Sarawak Tourism Board.

“We are determined and focused for ALTA MODA SARAWAK to be a successful yearly event to promote Sarawak as a leading fashion hub in Southeast Asia and attract potential tourism and merchandise buyers domestically and internationally for our Sarawakian designers and artists.”

She stated, “Another objective of the event is to provide up and rising Sarawakian designers the opportunity to make their mark in their own country rather than having to go abroad to make a name for themselves. It also aims to give local fashion followers the chance to have ‘high fashion at their doorstep.’”

Besides Abdul Karim, the three-day event is expected to be attended by the Chief Minister of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg and wife of the Governor of Sarawak Toh Puan Ragad Waleed Alkurdi.

The press conference also saw a short runway show featuring 11 out of the 24 designers that will be participating during ALTA MODA SARAWAK.

MARK YOU CALENDARS: The inaugural ALTA MODA SARAWAK will be held at the old State Legislative Assembly Building, Kuching on Mar 7 to 9.

Alta Moda Sarawak brings high fashion to Sarawak’s doorstep this March

Published on February 7, 2019

News & Features

KUCHING, Feb 7: Sarawak’s March calendar is set to start off with some glitz and glamour this year with the inaugural three-day fashion and lifestyle event, Alta Moda Sarawak (AMS).

Alta Moda Sarawak brings high fashion to Sarawak's doorstep this March

Designers Sher Lo (top left), Asrul Asshadi (bottom left) and Diffison Tanjan (bottom, second right) are among the 24 designers and brands that will be taking part in Alta Moda Sarawak 2019.

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 into the streamline of the fashion industry, applying the subject matter of lifestyle while emphasizing fashion as its core.

“We are honoured to have the opportunity to organize the inaugural fashion and lifestyle event of ALTA MODA SARAWAK 2019. This marks the first time an event of this kind will be held at the old DUN, an iconic landmark in Kuching.

“Our long term mission and vision are to hold the event on an annual basis as part of Sarawak Tourism calendar with Sarawak Tourism Board as the main supporter and partner,” stated AMS chairman Datin Esther Mujan Balan, who with Dato’ Raymond Valentine Jolly make up the AMS organizing committee.

‘Alta moda’ originates from the Italian language which means ‘high fashion’ where all the potential and leading couturiers, designers and labels will be looking forward to gathering under one roof similar to the likes of red carpet events featuring Hollywood A-listers.

In this spirit, AMS aims to serve as a brand platform for Sarawak designers to come together to showcase their talents and creations in the field of arts, culture and crafts as well as celebrate Sarawak’s diverse ethnic groups and cultures.

“We, therefore, see our role as one of the catalysts and key players in assisting in generating the traffic flow of tourists to Sarawak under the Sarawak Tourism umbrella. We are also excited to be holding this event in conjunction with Visit Sarawak Campaign with support and partnership from the Ministry of Tourism Sarawak and Sarawak Tourism Board,” she said.

Another objective of the event is to provide up and rising Sarawakian designers the opportunity to make their mark in their own country rather than having to go abroad to make a name for themselves. It also aims to give local fashion followers the chance to have “high fashion at their doorstep.”

This year, AMS is confident that with the experience and background of the team of strong and dynamic professionals under this platform, Sarawak designers will be able to establish themselves as the fashion brand to be reckoned with and to enable the expansion of the Sarawak designers industry.

“We are determined and focused for ALTA MODA SARAWAK to be a successful yearly event to promote Sarawak as a leading fashion hub in Southeast Asia and attract potential tourism and merchandise buyers domestically and internationally for our Sarawakian designers and artists.

“Along with the teamwork support from various collaborating partners, AMS aims to work together with promising young designers, established designers and the Sarawakian designers association to make this a reality.”

AMS is hopeful through the support towards ALTA MODA SARAWAK 2019, this will be the next great Sarawak event to be reckoned with whilst promoting the region’s large multi-ethnic and multi-cultures and to provide a unique experience and enjoyment for tourists to look forward to and to continue to boost the sustainable future of Sarawak’s tourism.

The 3-day event is expected to be attended by the Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg; Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; and Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Ragad Kurdi Taib, wife of the Governor of Sarawak.

ALTA MODA SARAWAK 2019 Event Details:

DATE: 7th to 9th MARCH 2019

VENUE: OLD DEWAN UNDANGAN NEGERI (DUN) BUILDING, PETRA JAYA, KUCHING

DESIGNERS & BRANDS

Anannasa By Sher Lo
Anna Sue
Ben Nazry
Bianco Mimosa
Bon Zainal
Erwan Asbor Touch
Gavroche by Arzmy Hargreaves
Hafiz Carlson
Kaftans by India
Khalids
Latip’s Collections
Lentera Astana
LIM KOK WING Institute of Technology
Melor by Melinda Omar
Najla
N’Inspired
Papier Mâchè
Paul Carling
Qeisha Qiani, Dubai
SAB2 by Sabrina Bujang
Sereni and Shentel
Tom Abang Saufi
UNIMAS Fashion Designers
Von Jolly Couture, Paris

PARTNERS, COLLABORATORS & SPONSORS

Ministry of Tourism Sarawak and Sarawak Tourism Board (STB)
Sarawak Arts Council
Official Automobile : Mercedes Benz (Hap Seng Star Sdn Bhd)
Official Hotel : The Waterfront Hotel
Official Travel Agent : Matahari Tours Sdn Bhd
Official Photographer : Kelvin Chan
Official Videographer : Tactickotor
Media Support : The Borneo Post, Sarawak Tribune, Utusan Sarawak, See Hua Daily, Berita Harian, Radio Television Malaysia (RTM), Information Department Sarawak, Era FM,
Lim Kok Wing Institute Of Creative University
University Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS)
Bellasimo by Soul Vision
Borneo Medispa
Power Looks Global Image Consultant
Borneo Talk
KINO
KAJOMAG
Astro Radio Sdn Bhd
Tabcreative Company
Glacier

A night of storytelling and poems at Nusi Poetry

Published on February 5, 2019

News & Features

Nusi Poetry was back for its second edition last Feb 2 in conjunction with the UNESCO International Year of Indigenous Languages 2019.

Initiated by Nading Rhapsody, an Avant-Garde Borneo ethnic world music ensemble, vocalist Opah Aspa explained that Nusi Poetry was an inter-ethnic and inter-language event.

“In each edition, we will show a different mosaic. This edition, we are presenting Nusi Poetry: Mosaic -Ngebat Mimpi which means ‘weaving dreams’ in Iban.”

She added, “Each and everyone of us we all have our own dreams. We spend our lives riding our own journey, weaving our way to our own dreams.”

During the event, 12 presenters from different walks of life shared their stories about achieving their dreams through poetry, chants and lyrics.

A night of storytelling and poems at Nusi Poetry

Teacher Philomina Wilson for instance, shared her story by reciting a poem called ‘Heaven’s Very Special Child’ by Edna Massimilla.

As a mother to an autistic son, she related with Massimilla who wrote the poem for her daughter who had Down syndrome.

Meanwhile, Dr Deborah Chong gave a glimpse of her life as a successful fitness athlete through a poem she wrote called ‘Dare to Dream’.

Sharing how she lived her life as a dream chaser, Chong attributed her success to her seven-year-old son who was born prematurely.

As for Raziv from local metal band Myopia, it was the first time he would actually read the lyrics of his song to his audienxe, instead of singing and yelling them out as he normally would.

He shared about the scepticism he faced in his life for being passionate about metal music, something he experienced since he first discovered his passion at 9 years old.

Sticking true to the spirit of being an inter ethnic and inter language event, the presentations were done in different languages such as Iban, Sarawak Malay, English and Melanau.

Other poets and presenters were Gabriel Fairuz Louis, Opah Aspa, Kulleh Grasi, Ronney Bukong. Calvin Mikeng, Raygyna Hayden, Neyna Radzuan, Dauz Iezara, Zakaria Hassan and Venu K Puthankatil.

The audience was also entertained by the band Imaginasi founded in 2013 by Shahrol, Naz, Zair and Zul.

Style Series teams up with Miss World Malaysia 2018 for a good cause

Published on January 29, 2019

News & Features

Style Series is a series of events organised to share fashion concepts and empower emerging new talents in Southeast Asia and Europe.

The first of its event, Style Series Episode 1: China Rouge was held on Jan 27 at Chabo Dine and Bar.

And this time, the fashion event showcased a spectacular Chinese New Year Collection to raise funds for Miss World Malaysia’s Indigenous Digital Outreach Program (IDOP).

The Miss World Malaysia 2019 titleholder, Larissa Ping Liew explained that she collaborated with Kuching-based community building organisation to start IDOP.

She said, “One of the main reasons why I joined Miss World was because Miss World focuses so much on reaching out to people, especially underprivileged children around the world. Hence, I’ve collaborated with the Champions to run programs around the rural areas of Sarawak called the IDOP.”

IDOP’s first project was held in October 2018 where Liew and her team reached out to the Penan community nearby Long Seridan. There, they brought in computers, painted murals around the school, fixed their fans and lights as well as organised motivational sessions for the students.

“Why children in the rural areas?” Liew said, “We realised that there is a major education gap between the rural community and urban folk.”

According to the 20-year-old beauty queen, not many rural youth enjoy good quality education or have the opportunity to further their tertiary studies and change their status quo.

She continued, “Being there to experience the lifestyle of the children has motivated my team and I to do more this year.”

With funds raised from Style Series Episode 1, Liew and her team are hoping to reach out to ten different villages this year around Sarawak.

About Style Series

Style Series teams up with Miss World Malaysia 2018 for a good cause

Style Series was founded by Geraldine Sim, Wong Kai Lee and Roselyn Ling.

The main aim of Style Series events is to connect designers through fashion, while fostering a community of collaboration and inspiration.

For its debut, the events featured collection from Yacutha Borneo, Romyda KL, TeeCode, Wynka, Rozie Khan, Mastuli Khalid, Emil Hamlyn and Melor.

There were 40 looks featured on the runaway with celebrity model Amber Chia took the closing spot for the fashion show.

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