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New Age Dads
JUNE 2013
PP13691/07/2013(032715)
PREVIEW ART & LIVING
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CONTENTS - June 2013Airport COO Speaks 57
Airline & Aviation Offices 58
Airport Talk: PROMOTINGTHENORTH 60Aviation News:ETIHADAIRWAYSgoestoBelgrade 62NewAmenityKitsatUSAIRWAYS 62AIRFRANCElandsatKLIA 63GARUDAgoestoPenang 64JETAIRWAYScelebrates20Years 64PLAZAPREMIUMopensinKuching 65MoreAircraftforETHIOPIAN 66EVAAIRhappyinMalaysia 66DTWMmeetsinKualaLumpur 67TURKISHAIRLINESarrivesinMalaysia 68OMANAIRreceivesUniqueAward 69NewUniformsatQANTAS 69PHILIPPINEAIRLINESreturnstoMalaysia 71
Flight Chat:GLOBALALLIANCES 72
Aviation Interview:ChandranRamamuthy 73ChiefExecutiveOfficer,Malindo
pg 47-66 Airlink white.indd 55 5/22/13 6:46 PM
Health & Beauty.indd 95 5/23/13 6:34 PM
Shopping.indd 37 5/22/13 7:17 PMMakan2 june.indd 21 5/23/13 12:11 PM
Managing Editor / PublisherDatuk Gary Thanasan
General ManagerLydia Teoh
Senior WriterMarlina Azmi
WriterNicolette Ng
Aviation News / AirlinkAndrew Ponnampalam
DesignerFaidah Asmawi
DesignerNurdiyana Zainal Abidin
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44 LuxeTravel:NewZealand48 LuxeSpa:beUrban51 LuxeShopping:LuxuryPersonalShopper52 LuxeLifestyle:TheSmokehouse, TheMajesticHotelKualaLumpur
LUXE.indd 43 5/22/13 7:19 PM
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J U N E 2 0 1 3
New Age Dads
JUNE 2013
PP13691/07/2013(032715)
Contents
MAKAN-MAKAN
FAVOURITES
FEATURES
SHOPPING
55 AIRLINK
ART & LIVING
HEALTH & BEAUTY
LIFESTYLE GUIDE
22 Makan-Makan with Rina Omar24 Ploy26 Frontera sol of Mexico28 Blu Med30 Pickle & Fig32 Food Hunt: Eat, Drink & Be Merry34 Street Food Hunt: Warung Aji-Don Alley36 Sweet Indulgence: Sweet Cocktails
4 Calendar6 Editor’s Pick & Goings-On
12 Dedicated Daddies18 Adventure Sports
76 Malaysian Art Auction 2013, Edition IV84 Expat Living86 Hotel Review: The Royale Bintang Damansara88 Hotel Review: Casa Del Rio90 Celcom Launches 4G LTE Network91 Andrea Bocelli Live in KL92 WWF
96 The Royale Spa98 Pushmore Crossfit
108 Reelview110 KL Map112 Getting Around KL
38 Hotpicks Women42 Hotpicks Men
44 Luxe Travel: New Zealand48 Luxe Spa: be Urban51 Luxe Shopping: Luxury Personal Shopper52 Luxe Lifestyle: The Smokehouse,
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur
LUXE
COVER
Cover story12
90
40
Dedicated DaddiesNazrudin Rahman, Adrian Loh and Ben Ibrahim share their stories on what it’s like being fathers with a hectic lifestyle.
Cover:Ben Ibrahim, Adrian Loh and Naz Rahman
Venue:The Smokehouse, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Background Art:Ahmad Zakii Anwar, Vase (2006)
Hair & Make-up, photography by: Annie Pung, Michele Mun and Nicholas Cheng from Snips
Adrian Loh’s suit: Bonia
48
24
Tickets: Monday to Friday evenings and
Saturday matinees – RM68, RM108, RM148, RM188,
RM228, RM268 & Saturday, Sunday
evenings and Sunday matinees – RM88,
RM128, RM168, RM208, RM248,
RM288
03-4047 9000www.klpac.org
THE MAGIC HORNAt the invitation of the
conductor, Sahara Bob (an adventurer of questionable
character) brings his collection of exotic musical instruments to the concert.
Little does Sahara Bob know the invitation is a trap,
for he is about to meet the genie of the magic horn,
while the audience is about to discover the power of
musical instruments.
8 June @ 3.00pm, 9 June @ 2.30pm & 4.30pm,
Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, PETRONAS
Twin Towers, KLCC
Tickets: RM20, RM40, RM60, RM80
03-2051 7007www.mpo.com.my
THE MOON SPEAKS FOR MY HEART
Savour the sweet music and songs in this concert tribute
to the legendary Teresa Teng and be enchanted by the musicianship and
voice of the multiple award-winning team of Dama.
14 to 23 June @ 8.30pm, 15, 16, 22 & 23 June
Saturday & Sunday Matinees @ 3.00pm,
Pentas 1, klpac
«
«
«MUSIC
ARTSBORAK ART SERIES – BREAKING BOUNDARIESThemed “Building Sustainability in Arts”, this inaugural conference will focus on critical thinking and creative management of the performing arts with the goal of creating a network of collaborative efforts to push the Malaysian performing arts industry to the next level.
15 & 16 June, Pentas 2, klpac
Tickets: RM100
03-4047 9000www.klpac.org
CHILD AID ASIA 2013Child Aid Malaysia Committee & The Actors Studio present a fund-raising concert for the Malaysian chapter of Child Aid Asia, in aid of Malaysian youth. Child Aid Asia is a regional charity helping economically disadvantaged children pay for creative training and providing travel grants for them to participate in competitions and concerts.
31 May to 1 June @ 8:30pm, 2 June @ 3pm, Pentas 1, klpac
«
MUSICAL
Tickets: A minimum donation of RM60
03-4047 9000www.klpac.org
GOINGS-ON
6 l KL LIFESTYLE
DASH BERLIN #musicislife WORLD
TOUR 2013 IN MALAYSIA
Dash Berlin is in town for his #musicislife world tour
this June, 15 at the Helipad, Sepang International Circuit.
The Malaysian leg will see him performing an exclusive three
hour set! The full line up includes international and regional acts –
Lisa Lashes, Beat Service, Altuna, MisterAriffin and Adham Nasri.
15 June @ 5pm, Sepang International Circuit, The Helipad
Tickets: RM93 (Presale) & Cabana RM4,500 (including 15
entry tickets)
www.redtix.airasia.com
3 CONDUCTORS, AN UNCOMMON JOURNEYJoost Flach, Martin Rutherford and Cheryl Mah will bring us a unique repertoire that combines variety pieces ranging from Baroque fugue, folk song, and concert hymn to modern symphonic overture.
7 & 8 June @ 8.30pm, Pentas 1, klpac
Tickets: RM53, RM33 and RM23 (students and TAS card members)
03-4047 9000www.klpac.org
«
«
Tickets: RM88 (Pre-Sale) & RM108
(Door)
www.heineken.com
HEINEKEN GREEN ROOM
Heineken Green Room returns this June 15 at KL
Live with a cocktail of drums, dinosaurs & more!
15 June @ 9pm, KL LIVE
WORLD’S BEST MOVIESFilm buffs will be pleased that The Actors Studio will be revisiting some classic films from across the globe and sharing them with you, all for free. This June, World’s Best Movies will be showcasing. Judas Kiss, a 2011
fiction drama film directed by J.T. Tepnapa and written by Tepnapa and Carlos Pedraza.
««
3-5
MUSIC
MISCELLANEOUS
3, 4, 10 & 11 June @ 8.30pm, Indicine, klpac
Tickets: Free admission
03-4047 9000www.klpac.org
GOINGS-ON
KL LIFESTYLE l 7
OUR MAN IN BEIJING“Our Man in Beijing” is a
comedy about an Australian junior manager sent to Beijing
to get a contract settled with a Chinese singer. Instead of a smooth course of proceedings,
John finds many cultural challenges for which he was
ill-prepared to manage. In the midst of being navigated
through the dangerous waters of many cross-cultural
encounters by friends and foes alike, John falls in love.
7 & 8 June @ 8.30pm, 9 June @ 3pm, Pentas 2, klpac
BUNRAKU – TRADITIONAL JAPANESE PUPPET THEATREWitness the grace and grandeur of a 400-year-old Japanese tradition, performed for the first time ever in Southeast Asia. Bunraku- Traditional Japanese Puppet Theatre is a showcase of fastidious teamwork as three puppeteers per puppet work in perfect unity with live traditional music and vocals.
IN A NUTTYSHELL In a NUTTYSHELL tells a story of three friends
from different races, religions and beliefs
who discover they are not so different
afterall. Funny, real and thought-provoking, IN A NUTTYSHELL will make you look at yourself in the mirror once more.
7, 8, 14 & 15 June @ 8.30pm, Indicine, klpac
DOUBLE PUNCTUMPam Lim, William Mok together with director Loh Kok Man and choreographer Ming Low, reveal the possibilities from the gaze of spectacular sceneries. Hence, they decided to depart from photography, utilising photographs as elements to extend imageries of the work, creating a double expose of photography and performing arts.
«
«
«
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THEATRE
Tickets: RM33, RM23 (Students, Disabled, TAS
card Members)
Tickets: RM23
03-4047 9000www.klpac.org
3 to 23 June, klpac
Tickets: Free Admission
03-4047 9000www.klpac.org
28 June @ 8.30pm, 29 June @ 3pm & 8.30pm, Pentas 2, klpac
Tickets: From RM30 onwards
03-4047 9000www.klpac.org
GOINGS-ON
8 l KL LIFESTYLE
1
15-17
COMEDY IN THE DARKA truly unique comedy experience where comedians take on the challenge of eliciting your laughter with the lights out.
1 June @ 3pm, PJ Live Arts, Jaya One
Tickets: RM35, RM30 (LIVE cardholders/ early bird)
017-228 9849www.tix.my
THE TALKATIVE TURTLE & OTHER STORIES
Pipit the little songbird loves listening to stories, which the older
songbirds tell him. Looking for food one day, Pipit gets caught
by Beruk, the big monkey! Quick-thinking Pipit tries to make Beruk
laugh with songs, jokes and stories he’s heard from the other
travelling songbirds.
7 June @ 10AM, 8 June @ 11AM, 9 June @ 2PM, PJ Live
Arts, Jaya OneTickets: RM35, RM30 (LIVE
cardholders/ early bird)
017-228 9849www.tix.my
«
««
«
THE AGONY UNCLESJoin Laugh Guru Jon Atherton as he teams up with lovable local comic
Andrew Netto to field the most insensible, intimate, inappropriate questions from the audience and try in their own inimitable way to
confuse the issues. Combined with stand-up acts from this dynamic duo, this show will leave you in a therapeutic state of bliss and
laughter!
5 June @ 8.30pm, PJ Live Arts, Jaya One
Tickets: RM50, RM70 (VIP), RM45 (LIVE cardholders/ early
bird), RM188 for 4 regular seats
017-228 9849www.tix.my
MEN IN TUTUS Who says ballet can’t be funny? This ultimate
send-up of both classical and contemporary ballet is a great way to enjoy
dance for the whole family. Laugh out loud as ballerinos entertain and
astound you with their combination of brilliant
dancing technique, tongue-in-cheek and blatant humour with intentional foibles,
dancing mishaps and, of course, hissy fits!
LIKE THIS, LIKE DAD
Join Malaysia’s favourite “leng-chai” comedian
Kuah Jenhan in this hilarious paternal tribute in
celebration of Father’s Day.
15 June @ 9PM, 16 June @ 5PM, PJ Live Arts,
Jaya One
6 to 9 June @ 8.30pm, PJ Live Arts,
Jaya One
Tickets: RM100, RM90 (LIVE
cardholders/ early bird), RM380 for 4
regular seats
017-228 9849www.tix.my
Tickets: RM25
017-228 9849www.tix.my
GOINGS-ON
KL LIFESTYLE l 9
ENERGY AND EXUBERANCEThe MPO’s Beethoven symphony cycle continues with the Fourth, a work of broad lyricism and surprising drama, and the Seventh, often called “the apotheosis of the dance” for its surging rhythmic energy and exuberance.
1 June @ 8.30pm & 2 June @ 3.00pm, Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS, PETRONAS Twin Towers, KLCC
Tickets: RM50, RM80, RM120, RM160
03-2051 7007www.mpo.com.my
MELAKA RIVER FIESTA
Inspired by the San Antonio River Festival in the USA,
Melaka International River Festival 2013 is back for the whole month of
June. The festival aims to promote Melaka in general, particularly the Melaka River
and monorail that travels from the Spice Garden to
Dataran Hang Tuah.
25 May to 30 June, Melaka
www.tourism.gov.my
GAWAI DAYAK FESTIVAL
Gawai Dayak is a harvest festival celebrated by the state’s indigenous
people, particularly the Ibans and Bidayuhs, in
their traditional costumes. Ceremonial offerings of various local traditional
delicacies and ‘tuak’ are made to the gods of rice
and prosperity. This unique festivity is a ‘must-see’
occasion for local and foreign tourists alike.
SABAH DRAGON BOAT RACE
This exciting race has attracted many local and
international teams from as far as Hong Kong, China
and Japan. Also, look out for the most popular
Dragon Boat delicacy – rice dumplings filled with water
chestnuts and minced meat!
12 & 16 June, Likas Bay, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
www.sabahdragonboat.my
KK JAZZ FESTIVALThe jazz musical
extravaganza in Kota Kinabalu is back with a line-up of local and
international artistes! The Kota Kinabalu Jazz Festival
2013 is now a signature event of Sabah which
represents many different facets of jazz music.
1-2
AROUND MALAYSIA
25-30
«
«
«
««
CLASSICAL
14 & 15 June, Sutera Harbour Marina, Golf
and Country Club’s Tennis Arena, Sabah
www.kkjazzfest.com
1 & 2 June, Throughout Sarawak
082-423 600www.tourism.gov.my
GOINGS-ON
10 l KL LIFESTYLE
PAHANG INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACEThink you can differentiate the birds from their chirps and tweets? Come join us the Pahang International Bird Race 2013 to sight, identify and record the most number of bird species! Over 250 species of birds from as far as northern Siberia and the islands north of Japan can be seen in the cool highlands of Fraser’s Hill.
21 to 23 June, Fraser’s Hill, Raub, Pahang
09-516 1007www.pkbf.org.my
PUTRAJAYA FLORIAPopularly known as Floria
Putrajaya, the Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival 2013 is here to showcase the best of
the landscape and horticulture industry; from commercial
landscape products to garden design and flower displays!
22 to 30 June, Waterfront Precint 2, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur
www.ppj.gov.my
RAINFOREST WORLD MUSIC FESTIVALWith a line-up of 18 bands playing a diverse range of world music genres, the festival features seven different acts per night over three nights. For the afternoon session, there will be programmes such as informative workshops, ethno-music lectures and jamming sessions. It’s a smashing time in the heart of the Borneo Jungle!
“MAGIC OF THE NIGHT”
1MALAYSIAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM NIGHT FLORAL PARADE
Witness a procession of beautifully lighted and
decorated boats that cruise across the Putrajaya Lake
every night. Main activities of the event include night floral boat photography
contest, fireworks display and cultural group
performances.
1MALAYSIA MEGA SALE CARNIVALWithin this two-month
shopping period, shoppers get the advantage to
enjoy irresistible offers and great discounts from luxury brands to affordable items
all put together by malls and retail stores throughout
Malaysia. Shop, eat and celebrate!
22-30
AROUND MALAYSIA
« ««
«
«
22 to 30 June, Putrajaya Lake, Presint
2, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur
03-8891 7000 www.tourism.gov.my
29 June to 1 September,
Throughout Malaysia
03-2614 8691www.tourism.gov.my
28 to 30 June, Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching, Sarawak
www.rwmf.net
GOINGS-ON
KL LIFESTYLE l 11
12 l KL LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY
Dedicated Daddies
Nazrudin Rahman, Adrian Loh and Ben Ibrahim share their stories on what it’s like being
fathers with a hectic lifestyle.By: Marlina Azmi
Over the years, there has been a growing interest in the role of fathers in their children’s lives following years of neglect when the spotlight was
focused firmly on the mothers’ role. Fathers’ roles are evolving in response to substantial social and economic changes over the past few decades.
These include large numbers of mothers entering employment and families becoming more diverse and fluid in form.
We listen to three fathers with almost similar lifestyles on how they handle
the challenges of fatherhood in a modern age. All decked in suits and ties, we met up with single father of twins, model and entrepreneur Adrian Loh father of two, TV personality Nazrudin Rahman and first-time father, TV personality Ben Ibrahim at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s dapper, The Smokehouse to casually chat about juggling their career with their active
paternity role at home.
KL LIFESTYLE l 13
COVER STORY
When Nazrudin Rahman aka Naz got married to wife, Sheahnee Iman Lee, their plan was to start a family right away but life doesn’t always go according to plans. Sheahnee’s first pregnancy didn’t work out as she experienced a miscarriage. The couple was more than ecstatic when they found out they were expecting their first child, Zara Aaliyah in early 2010. “With Zara, she was an elation, a godsend, a miracle in a sense as my wife had problems conceiving, so we looked at Zara as our redemption. I didn’t even think about how I was going to cope with this. All our efforts in terms of planning our career were skewed to Sheahnee having this baby. She quit her job to be a full-time mother and I decided to take on that responsibility of providing for my family without having EPF, so that makes it doubly hard,” said Naz.
Now a father of two with with the addition of one-year-old Zakry Aiman, Naz works hard to
A blessed dad
Nazrudin Rahman
balance his work life and being a father at the same time with the help of a domestic maid and he’s not complaining about it at all. His daily routine involves going to the studio to fulfil his duty as a host for NTV7’s, The Breakfast Show every morning. His other commitments include being a freelance voiceover talent and if he isn’t committed to any project, he heads straight home to take over parenting duties, especially if wife, Sheahnee has to go off and get her work done.
“It’s all about coordinating and the positive part is that no two days are alike. It’s all about constant communication and trying to make things work. My wife and I started an online baby store, Buggy Baby Boogie, and recently we had a booth at a mum and baby expo over a weekend, so she had to be at the venue to run the sales and I was at home with both children and it’s an experience which I think is not for everyone. Fortunately, I’m in love with
my children and very good with kids. It’s just a matter of being good at splitting your attention,” said Naz.
Naz foresees this will be the new way of raising children as he feels getting foreign help will not last forever as it is not something economically viable as time goes by. The chatty TV host encourages parents, especially the ones who are used to having maids to try out this method. He acknowledges that it is tiring but he believes it is so much more rewarding, especially when your kids hug you before bedtime saying, ‘I love you’. Their method of raising their kids could be the very reason why his daughter is so much like him. Should the world be worried, we asked. “It’s uncanny that her characteristics, her mannerism and her facial expression are exactly like mine when I was young. I don’t think the novelty will ever wear off, so the world better watch out,” he cheekily replied.
Being a father in the modern age comes with additional worries, especially with the increase of child kidnapping cases and such. “I think like most parents out there, our main concern would be their safety. Gone are the days where we can tell our children to go to our neighbour’s house or go play in the park. Of course with the Internet and social media, our children aren’t equipped to handle such maturity, so the challenge for parents, is monitoring things,” said Naz. “These are just some of the things that the new age parents worry about and all I can pray for is that my children inherit some of my good sense. We should teach and expose them to as many things as possible and stay close to them so that if they encounter any difficulties in life, they will not be afraid to come to us. I don’t want my children to be afraid to approach me with anything or be too traumatised to relay their experiences to me,” he added.
Naz with wife, Sheahnee,daughter, Zara and son, Zakry
14 l KL LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY
A first-time father at the age of 35, Ben Ibrahim and his wife, Sofia Cinta Lee, celebrated the birth of their daughter, Kyla Natasha on March 31, 2013. The news of his wife’s pregnancy was indeed an unexpected one. When Ben and Sofia tied the knot in October 2011, they had plans on having fun, enjoying their married life first doing the things they both love, which is travelling. “What I mean when I say have fun is go travelling and just enjoy life, which we did! We went to Singapore for like four times, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Melbourne and it was
Brand new dad
Ben Ibrahim brilliant.” The couple continued to enjoy each other’s company during the first eight months of 2012 and it was a call Ben received on August 4 that changed their life.
“My wife called me crying and when I heard her on the phone like that I was like, ‘I’m sorry for whatever I did’ and then she said, ‘no love, I’m pregnant’. I was shocked because it was meant to be a 2013 action plan and not a 2012 one but you know, you can’t actually plan these things. We both went to the doctor for a second opinion and it was right and we consided it as ‘rezeki’ and you can’t argue with a gift from God”, Ben recalled.
Being a father for the first time comes with certain challenges, especially when your job requires you to work long and unpredictable hours. Ben Ibrahim has been working as a TV presenter since 2005, when a chance encounter with a TV show producer launched his career in the broadcasting, entertainment and journalism industry. He is currently hosting a business programme called Entrepreneur on Astro Awani, and is a commentator for the Asean Basketball League, which is aired on ESPN.
“At the start when our daughter cried, we didn’t know what to do. Was she hungry, did she need a burp or diaper change or did she want us to carry her around? It was challenging because she couldn’t tell you what she needed, so you really had to read between the lines. One night my wife asked me why I changed
her nappy but from my experience the other day, if she cried this much, she wanted her nappy changed and I was right. That part was scary but I’m getting better as the months go by, especially with added confidence,” said Ben.
Despite the new changes, Ben is adapting to fatherhood very well and gets involved in taking care of the baby. Before Kyla came along, Ben and Sofia used to come home from work and spent time with each other cooking, watching the telly and catch up on each other’s day. Nowadays, Ben would come home, bathe the baby, feed her and the cycle continues.
“It’s like working in shifts. As I am working man, my wife gets to see Kyla all day at the moment. I work until very late, so my time with our baby is limited but I try my best to get all these things done for her. I don’t want to end up being a typical dad that just works, works, works and don’t spend much time with his child, especially when people say that these are the best years and all,” Ben explained.
Ben hopes that Kyla and himself will be really good friends in the future. But based on what he’s heard, children will always try to push boundaries, so his plan is to be a firm friend and not a pushover father. One of his traits that he would like his daughter to follow is his hardworking nature. “It’s a bit of a cliché but if you’re not a natural at something, work hard at it instead of saying I’m not good at it. That’s an easy way out but diligence is my strength,” said Ben.
Ben with daughter, Kyla
KL LIFESTYLE l 15
COVER STORY
We were not successful in securing a maid before the baby came but found a very good day-care centre that helps the baby’s
development.
“
”
Model and entrepreneur, Adrian Loh, 33, decided on a career change in 2010 and this was a decision he made based on the dual responsibility he carries as both father and mother. Adrian and his partner welcomed twins, Nathaniel Asher Loh Chu Sheng and Evan Alexander Chu Xian on May 16, 2008. “I’m no longer attached to anyone. I’m a single father right now. The first time I heard we were expecting twins, I thought, wow, I’m going to be a father already? This is a part of my dream and of course I was surprised and shocked but definitely felt happy more than anything. I had to give up my freedom for one but in all honesty, nobody is really ready to be a father but it’s an everyday learning experience,” shared Adrian.
The bigger challenge in raising twins for Adrian is financial. With twins, everything has to be bought in sets of twos. “I have to buy everything in pairs. And if one of the twins is ill, the other gets ill too. But my motto is double the effort, double the satisfaction and double the happiness,” he said. To support his family unit, Adrian started his first business in savings in 2010 and launched his beauty solution business just a year ago for additional income. But Adrian isn’t a dad that is all work and no play. He loves spending time with his sons, doing a lot of the things he likes doing. Playing both parental roles, Adrian is a spot-on father and is involved in bathing and dressing his sons, feeding them and also teaches them religious values by taking them to church.
“It’s all about giving the right balance. God gives us 24 hours in a day, so it’s up to us on how we can fully utilise them. I play a dual role of mother and father to the twins and I do find it challenging to be honest and very interesting at the same time. They are quite a handful. They are boys after all. I’m constantly discovering new things about my kids and myself,” said Adrian.
Adrian is more comfortable as a father these days as his businesses are running the way he wants it, which makes it easier to become an involved parent at the same time. “I like being active with the boys. We often go for swims, watch TV together and they like showing me their colouring work too,” he said.
Super single dad
Adrian Loh
Adrian with twins, Nate and Evan16 l KL LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY
What would you do if you were given the day off from being a daddy for one day?
Ben Ibrahim: I would go for a reflexology session.
Adrian Loh: I’ll use that time to improve on my guitar and singing skills. My latest obsession is singing Bruno Mars’ ‘If I Was Your Man’, which all the girls are going gaga over. I saw Candice Glover singing it on American Idol and I thought it sounded great when she sang it, so that was when I decided to practise the song. Aside from that, I’d probably head to the bookstore, swim or take a walk somewhere to enjoy some nature. Nazrudin Rahman: I would go out and buy myself a motorcycle with maximum power called a Ducati, which I will ride really slowly. Now that’s the hurdle right now, convincing my wife that I need to have a motorcycle.
Who’s your favourite father figure?
B: I would have to say David Beckham. He is very successful at what he does at the age of 38 and he is a loving father at the same time and doesn’t let the glamour life dictate their life at home. He’s a very good father, from what I’ve read. He makes sure they finish their homework, eat properly and is good at disciplining them. I think he’s a role model for a lot of fathers especially high-profile ones. To him, the words ‘I’m too busy’ doesn’t exist. If he can do it, I’m sure we all can.
A: There are a lot of father figures out there. To name someone close and a realistic one would be my father. My father has gone through a lot and has been there for me through good and bad times and apart from him, I see President Obama as a good father figure.
N: Believe it or not, my favourite father figure is Bill Cosby in The Cosby Show back then. Even at a young age, I could appreciate the fact that wow, he never got angry with his kids and they always got into trouble and there was always a lesson to be learned at the end of the show. I know it’s a TV show but secretly thought to myself, man I wish he were my dad.
Which bad a** father are you? Liam Neeson in Taken, Russell Crowe in Gladiator or Darth Vader?
B: I was told a couple of weeks ago when I was refereeing a football match, I injected the fear of God into them so I’ll go with Liam Neeson.
A: I would say Darth Vader because everyone sees him as an evil character but he’s still a father. He died at the end of the movie and unmasked himself, and it was one touching moment.
N: It’s definitely Russell Crowe! I’ve never been one to shout out orders because I’ve always preferred reasoning with my kids. If Zara did something wrong, I would ask why she did that when she knew something bad would happen. My usually listen and come up with their own conclusion so, therefore I am a Maximus.
Quick questions
Ben, Adrian and Naz answered some quick questions after a fairly serious interview session.
Be honest, what can daddy do better than mummy?
B: Sing, surprisingly. The second one is to run to the kitchen to get hot water and the third one is to run to the toilet to get the tissue and cloth if Kyla accidentally throws up.
A: I can sing, I can take the boys swimming because mummy doesn’t know how and I would like to believe I clean them better too.
N: This is a tough one! I dare say I make better milk because they always seem to finish the ones I mix and I’m also a better disciplinarian because the kids listen to me more than her. My wife is hard to top. She’s pretty good.
What kind of sports/activity would you want your children to follow?
B: My brothers and I love sports and we told ourselves when we have kids regardless of boys or girls, they must be active in sports like us. In Malaysia, not everyone is sporty especially the girls but I’ll make sure Kyla will get into some kind of sport for fun or passion. Basketball would be great so we can shoot some hoops before dinner.
A: That’s a hard one because their interests are different. I hope they will pick up a sport because
like me, I can play soccer, basketball and I can swim but whatever they choose, I will definitely back them up.
N: Football of course, there’s no such thing as gender biase. You know, according to Malay tradition, after the birth, you should bring the placenta home and wrap it in a piece of cloth and then bury it. For girls, the wrap will include a needle and thread, a bit of salt and ‘asam’, so they can cook. For me I sealed all that with an Arsenal FC sticker, the greatest football club in the world. She must embrace it, Gunners for life! Now she runs to the TV and scream GOAL, just like me.
What do you plan to do on Father’s Day?
B: I’d like to go out to somewhere like Publika or KLCC, with both grandparents and have nice cake and coffee and enjoy the day really.
A: I’m not too sure if I’ll be around on that day but if I am, I’ll probably take them to enjoy nature or go for a short getaway.
N: I won’t ask for much, I want what all fathers want, 16 hours of uninterrupted sleep. I love all of you but just give me my sleep.
KL LIFESTYLE l 17
COVER STORY
Kite surfingKite surfing known as kite boarding is a blend of wakeboarding and windsurfing. Balok beach, strategically situated in the heart of Kuantan, Pahang and at the crossroad between East and West, has attracted dozens of surfers from all over the country so much so that the state even hosts the acclaimed Windsurfing and Kitesurfing Regatta annually over a span of three days.
1
Thrill Seeking AdventuresYou don’t have to travel far to indulge in these adrenaline-
pumping activities that’s easily available in Malaysia.
18 l KL LIFESTYLE
Rock climbingMost people don’t realise that rock climbing
has been taking place in Malaysia since 1964, when climbers started to scale Mount Kinabalu’s rugged granite peaks. Nearer to Kuala Lumpur, quartzite ridges of the Klang
Gates have been scaled since 1973. Although there are unlimited rocks climbing opportunities in Malaysia, this sport is actively promoted only
at 11 spots across nine states.
3
HikingThe vast Malaysian jungles and national parks offer a substantial amount of hiking opportunities and the chance to spot wildlife at the same time. There are a variety of landscapes, each with its own wildlife
and ecosystem to explore, including rainforests, mangrove swamps and rockymountains. You can
start with forest reserves like Bukit Gasing and Broga Hills before tackling the prized objective,
Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.
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White water raftingWhite water rafting is a challenging recreational outdoor activity of using an inflatable raft to navigate a river or other bodies of water. Feel the sheer excitement of careening along a churning mass of white foam or the thrill of being tossed in a ranging rapid. Some of the best spots to check this out are Sungai Selangor in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Sungai Kampar in Gopeng, Perak, Taman Negara Endau Rompin and Sungai Kelmin in Terengganu.
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KL LIFESTYLE l 19
SkydivingSkydiving is not for the faint hearted but if you are a thrill-seeker, you will be skydiving for the rush of adrenalin, the excitement and the thrill of freefalling at over 200 kmph. The simplest way to learn skydiving in Malaysia and to experience it to its full potential without the worry of training is by signing up to do a tandem skydive with a professional. If you’re interested in taking lessons, check out Skydive KL or Skydive Malaysia for options.
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PaintballPaintball is one of the most popular outdoor participation sports around. The good thing about paintball is that everyone or anyone can play. There are no special requirements needed. Paintball combines the elements of two childhood games, tag and hide-and-seek. Given the nature of those two games, paintball is for people who want to experience the unique rush that participation sports give, minus physical contact.
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Scuba divingScuba diving is an overwhelming experience especially when being underwater with unknown creatures and an abundance of coral reefs. It’s not hard to obtain a diving licence. The PADI Open Water Diver course comes in three phases. First is Knowledge Development; to understand basic principles of scuba diving, then it’s the Confined Water Dives to learn basic scuba skills, and lastly it’s the Open Water Dives to review your skills and explore!
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22 Makan-MakanwithRinaOmar24 Ploy26 FronterasolofMexico28 BluMed30 Pickle&Fig32 FoodHunt:Eat,Drink&BeMerry34 StreetFoodHunt:Warung Aji-DonAlley36 SweetIndulgence:SweetCocktails
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Rina Omar and her father recently agreed to meet us at one of their favourite restaurants, Serai in Paradigm Mall. As the pair walked
in with a warm smile on their faces, I could sense that the duo has a very close bond and I was right. According to Rina, her family is close-knit and they meet up every weekend for a family outing or dinner with mom’s cooking at home.
Being a family that loves food, their family outings would normally involve going to a restaurant for a nice meal and Serai has been one of their
favoured choices. “When we first brought my dad here, I was quite worried that he might not like it as he likes his comfort zone and it’s sometimes hard for him to accept a new place. But I like this place, so I was hoping he would too. Luckily, he did!” said Rina.
Her dad’s favourites at Serai include the Spicy Thai Rice, the Serai Tasting Platter and the Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce that he couldn’t get enough of. “It’s not so much about the fish, but the sauce is just superb!” exclaimed Omar. He likes
Father’s Day is just around the corner and this bubbly TV personality decides
to treat her dad to a hearty meal at their favourite restaurant, Serai.
By : Nicolette Ng
Rina Omar
22lKLLIFESTYLE
MAKAN-MAKAN WITH THE STARS
the sauce so much that he once went up to the staff at Serai to ask for an extra bowl of the sauce, which he enjoyed as a bowl of soup.
A regular at the restaurant during the dinner rush, Rina and her family members always make sure each and everyone of them order something different from the menu so that they can try each other’s choise. And since most of them are foodies, they also have additional ones to share in the centre. Besides the food, the family enjoys dining at Serai because of its friendly staff who are very accommodating towards their customers’ requests.
Serai serves an impressive selection of East-meets-West cuisine, including Malaysian favourites like satay and kerabu. One of the more unique dishes at Serai is the Beef Rendang Penne, which combines a famous local delicacy with a touch of Italian.
Rina first found Serai when she was working on the second season of Masterchef Malaysia. As the
content producer of Masterchef Malaysia, she’s always on the lookout for a good restaurant where the contestants can be rewarded with a learning experience. Besides restaurant hopping, she also needs to come up with the challenges for every episode of the show.
When asked if she turned to her mom for tips since her mom is such a great cook, Rina said, “Sometimes I go to my mom and ask her if I can prepare a certain dish in X amount of time to see if it’s doable for a challenge. But she’s a big fan of the show, so she’s always trying to get me to tell her what’s going to happen in the show, which I can’t.”
Rina’s dad is also a good helper in the kitchen and he does all the marketing for the past 30 plus years. “I used to follow my dad to the market and the pasar malam, where I watched him take forever to buy a fish. Even with the vegetables, he handpicked one by one. Now, I’m incorporating the same thing when I go marketing,” said Rina.
Serai RestaurantLot 07, Level 1 Boulevard, Paradigm Mall, Kelana Jaya
Sometimes I go to my mom and ask her
if I can prepare a certain dish in X amount of time to
see if it’s doable for a challenge. But she’s a big fan of the show so she’s always trying to get me to tell her
what’s going to happen in the show, which I cant.
Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce
Spicy Thai Rice
Serai Tasting Platter
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” KLLIFESTYLEl23
MAKAN-MAKAN WITH THE STARS
G-02 Ground Floor WORK@clearwater, Changkat Semantan, Off Jalan Semantan, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03 2095 0999 . Fax: 03 2095 9181
Asian with a twistPloy
By : Nicolette Ng
Smoke Duck Breast with Chicken Ham Pizza
24lKLLIFESTYLE
The brainchild of Asian private equity investor, Jared Lim, Ploy is the result of years of travel,
experimentation and unadulterated gluttony. The avid foodie spent six months, conducting daily food tasting with Chef Daniel Yong to come up with a menu built entirely from scratch with over 60 offerings, influences that span four continents and over 35 new and original sauces.
Ploy’s dishes cater to taste buds that embrace Asian spices in not-so-Asian dishes and they recommend
Tempura Surprise Crab in a Wrap
Tuna Wakame Salad
you to always order a variety of dishes and share them within the table, Asian style.
It has been almost two years since Ploy opened its doors to food enthusiasts and recently, I finally had the chance to meet with the passionate team who battles in the kitchen with their pots and pans to come up with their latest creations to add to their already impressive menu.
To kick-start my meal, I ordered a Strawberry Ice Tea to quench my
thirst on a sunny afternoon. The sweetness of the tea blended with fresh strawberries was just perfect for my liking. But if you are in the mood for some alcohol, Ploy’s Pardon My Pandan is a must-try.
With a drink in hand, I was all set to down some food and started with a Tempura Surprise, which is seabass wrapped in Oba leaf, and the Kabocha Tempura, a serving of salted egg pumpkin tempura, which is a perfect combination of sweet and saltiness on a plate. I also had a Tuna Wakame Salad with the slightly tangy and spicy Sesame Shoyu dressing as well as a Golden Needle Salad with Wafu dressing.
All these for starters, you say? Yes, but not just for me. I had my loyal comrades to dine with me and these dishes were perfect for sharing.
Done with the starters, it was time to order the mains. My orders included a Salmon Don called The Godfather Special and the Pasta From Heaven, a portion of sakura ebi angel hair in truffle oil. I can smell the rich truffle oil as the waiter brought the dish to the table and
the taste was just as exquisite as the strong aroma.
My personal favourite from the new selection was of course the Smoked Duck Breast With Chicken Ham Pizza. A thin crust pizza topped with avocado paste – which I absolutely love – instead of tomato, this pizza is a refreshing experience for pizza fans, especially those who love avocados.
Other must-try new items are the Crab In A Wrap and the Magic Puff. The Magic Puff is a homemade crispy pastry that goes “crunch” when you bite into it, topped with goat cheese, truffle oil and wild rocket.
Every meal, of course, will not be complete without dessert and I ended my meal at Ploy with an exciting new dessert experience from a serving of liquid nitrogen ice-cream. Available in various flavours including rum and raisin and Horlicks, the liquid nitrogen ice-cream has a solid texture, unlike the prepacked ice-cream that you find in stores.
Ploy’s dishes cater to taste buds that embrace
Asian spices in not-so-Asian dishes and they
recommend you to always order a variety
of dishes and share them within the table, Asian style.
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KLLIFESTYLEl25
18-G-2, Palm Square, Jaya One, 72A Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya, SelangorOpening Hours: Monday hours 11:00 am - 1:00 am
Contact: 03-7958 8515
Frontera Sol of Mexico
By : Marlina Azmi
Authentic Mexican and Tex Mex cuisine
Baja-Style Fish Tacos
26lKLLIFESTYLE
There are restaurants that boast of their authentic cuisine and then you end up leaving utterly
disappointed but that’s not the case with this gem tucked in the bustling area of Petaling Jaya. Previously called Frontera Bar and Grill, this authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex joint now known as Frontera Sol of Mexico has been sitting comfortably at Jaya One since they first opened their doors in 2008.
It’s not hard not to see the appeal of Frontera, as you’ll instantly feel welcomed with pure Mexican vibes upon reaching the entrance. The cosy interior features a distinct Mexican theme with agave plants and pictures of Latin influence as amazing decors. The restaurant features a lot of the all time favourites consisting of mainly meat with the usual chicken and fish dishes. At very favourable prices, Frontera serves up hot and deliciously spicy chicken wings, juicy burgers, healthy burritos and sumptuous tacos as a part of their menu.
We kicked started our meal with a fan favourite, the Habanero Hot Wings and they are not kidding
when they say its hot! Glazed with their signature Habanero BBQ sauce, the chicken wings really pack a punch. The cilantro ranch dressing served with the chicken does help as it takes some of the spicy edge off your tongue with its cooling taste. We were privileged to try out two new dishes that have set to be added into the amazing line-up of goodies this month. The first on the list is the Baja-Style Fish Tacos. Deep-fried in beer batter, the dory fish is a delight as the crust perfectly fried is placed in your choice of either crispy corn or soft flour tortillas accompanied by marinated cabbage, cilantro, tomatoes, chipotle ranch dressing, Monterey Jack Cheese and lime.
Next we tried the Chicken Avocado Burrito, which is also new on their menu beginning of this month. This amazingly refreshing dish isn’t like your regular burrito as they have removed the fried beans in and replaced it with avocado and sour cream to give it the same moisture the fried beans would have. If you’ve got serious beef craving, the Texas BBQ Burger should do the trick. A combination of Frontera’s cantina burger with freshly made
Beancurd Stick with Basil LeavesChocolate Cake Shooter
Chicken Avocado Burrito & Texas BBQ Burger
Habanero Hot Wings
guacamole, beef bacon, melted Monterey Jack cheese and mayonnaise just spells out burger perfection.
If you’re in the mood for some cocktail indulgence, word around town is that they serve one of the best margaritas and we the verdict is in, the claims are true. These strong and sweet concoctions are
fused with Sauza Hornitos 100% blue agave tequila and you’ll find yourself savouring it to the last drop. Another must try is the chocolate cake; a brilliant shooter concoction of vodka, Frangelico, lemon and sugar that gives out a taste of, you guessed it, chocolate cake in your throat, making it one of our favourite desserts around town.
KLLIFESTYLEl27
Ground Floor, The Boulevard, Mid Valley City, Kuala LumpurOpening Hours: 7am to 12am
Contact: 03-2201 5081
Where creativity meets foodBlu Med Ristorante E Bar
By : Nicolette Ng
Chocolate Gateau
28lKLLIFESTYLE
Strategically located at the crossway between Mid Valley and The Gardens where the fountain is, Blu Med Ristorante
E Bar is Texchem Group of Companies’ latest venture. Unlike its already famous Japanese restaurants Miraku, Goku Raku Ramen and Sushi King, Blu Med is the group’s first non-Japanese outfit.
Blu Med may have an Italian executive chef to handle the stove, but the restaurant’s menu is overseen by a Japanese celebrity chef, Yasuhiro Sasajima who appeared in Iron Chef and currently owns multiple well-received restaurants in Kyoto and Tokyo. That explains the use of Japanese ingredients such as Marukoban fish, Konbu stock as well as sea urchin in the pasta although Blu Med’s food more consciously leans towards Italian and Mediterranean influences.
The Japanese star chef designed the Sasajima lunch and dinner menus separate from the ala carte list at Blu Med, which is also known as the Grand Menu.
While the choices are kept minimal, the menu lives up to its name with the luxurious ingredients used in every dish. For starters, there are the Fish Carpaccio with Orange and Salmon Roe, Insalata Caprese, Seafood Salad and Steamed Chicken Breast with Checca
Sauca. I had the Fish Carpaccio, a house specialty featuring the smooth Marukoban fish with orange, salmon roe and some greens that gave me an explosion of flavours in every bite.
An Italian menu is never complete without pastas and the chef at Blu Med makes sure of that. Pasta selections at the restaurant range from the basic Linguine Carbonara with Beef Bacon to the more complex Edamame Risotto with Parmesan Cheese or the Homemade Ravioli of Duck Ragout. Those with post taste buds can try the Homemade Tagliolini with Sea Urchin.
Starting from RM38 for a main, try dishes like Roasted Duck with Yam and Burdock Root Fricassee Style, Tapenade Sauce, Pan-Fried Red Snapper with Steamed Lobster, Anchovy and Herb Sauce as well as the Grilled Smoke Flavoured Salmon with Spinach and Poached Egg. For a unique taste experience, the Baked Marukoban Fish with Puree of Morning Glory, Celery and Cherry Tomato definitely makes the cut.
Blu Med also serves a good choice of tapas and drinks if you’re looking to chill out with a bunch of friends on a Saturday night. And for the sweet-toothed, the selection of desserts at Blu Med, which includes a Chocolate Gateau, Earl Grey Brulee, Walnut Mousse with Coffee Jelly and many more, is definitely enough to put you on a sugar high.
Fish Carpaccio with Orange and Salmon Roe Bread and dip
From June onwards, Blu Med will be serving a buffet-style Sunday brunch from 11am to 3pm where you can enjoy an elegant meal at the restaurant after sleeping in on a weekend. Prices are at RM88++ for adults and RM33++ for children aged eight and below.
Strategically located at the crossway between Mid Valley and The Gardens where the
fountain is, Blu Med Ristorante E Bar is Texchem Group of Companies’ latest
venture.
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Homemade Ravioli of Duck Ragout
KLLIFESTYLEl29
No.26, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 2, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala LumpurOpening Hour: 10am-10pm, Fridays & Saturdays - 11pm
Tel: 03-2858 9960
Avocado Mixed Greens with Raspberry Vinaigrette
All natural goodnessPickle & Fig
By : Marlina Azmi
30lKLLIFESTYLE
Coronation Chicken
The suburban dwellers in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail have been experiencing an increase of chic eateries opening in the area within
the past few years. One of the latest additions to this amazing line-up of out-of-the-norm cafes is Pickle & Fig.
Situated along Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 2, Pickle & Fig finds itself at one of the best spots that easily leads students, working executives and families to its doors. The café is owned by two lads who thrive on providing their customers nothing but yummy delicacies made from fresh ingredients that require less or no garnishing and condiment. Their specialties are great salads, light bites, made-to-order sandwiches (hot-pressed Panini, ciabattas, hummus stuffed) and thirst-quenching and filling smoothies.
Boasting a minimal theme of décor, Pickle & Fig doesn’t just feature healthy options of food and drinks to its customers, it is also an apt location for people to catch up with each either whether for business or pleasure. The spacious café with a calm environment is decked with assorted furniture of various designs to ensure comfort dining for customers. Whether you like it on stool, cushion or bench, all these options are perfect for you to chill out. Customers are also encouraged to express themselves at the wall of ‘conscience’ that poses the question, ‘what would you like to do before you die?’
We were treated to a complete set of goodies on our first visit to Pickle & Fig. Our spread included two types of sumptuous sandwiches,
Crab in a wrap
a very unique salad and two refreshing glasses of smoothies. The first on the menu was the light and refreshing Avocado Mixed Greens with Raspberry Vinaigrette. This lovely salad is a mixture of mesclun salad, sliced avocados and toasted almonds mixed with a delicious mixture of freshly made raspberry vinaigrette. It was indeed a yummy teaser before hitting on the sandwiches.
The main stars of the café are the made-to-order sandwich spreads. For RM15, the Coronation Chicken teases the taste buds with its combination of sliced chicken breast, caramelised onions, raisins, alfalfa sprouts and the coronation sauce, a mixture of mayonnaise, mango, mango chutney and curry powder all crammed in between two slices of ciabatta.
Our favourite pick is the Rotkraut Pastrami sandwich. Available at RM19, this toasted piece of beef goodness combines beef pastrami, rotkraut red cabbage and mozzarella cheese topped with Russian dressing on any piece of bread of your choice. The sandwiches come with a portion of hand-cut, triple-cooked, steamy-chunky potato wedges.
Complement your meal with their iced cold fruity smoothies. These goodies aren’t just thirst quenchers made from fresh fruits as they can be very filling at the same time. Our top two picks are the Mango Passion Smoothie, a mixture of mango, passion fruit, banana and pineapple, and the Goji Me Smoothie, a concoction of goji berries, apple, pineapple and yogurt.
Fret not all you caffeine addicts and coffee lovers, as you will be able to find your favoured drinks along with a spectrum of creative menu of sandwiches. All in all, Pickle & Fig is the perfect choice for those who prefer a healthier and lighter meal option with a very chilled-out environment.
KLLIFESTYLEl31
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
Enjoy glasses of sinful concoctions and equally delectable dishes at these favourite bars and pubs.
Sid’s PubSid’s Pubs are neighbourhood British pubs serving up good, hearty British pub grub and fresh, cold drinks in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Deliberately small and intimate, Sid’s Pubs are dotted around a variety of neighbourhoods, the idea being to provide a convivial feeding and watering hole close to home for residents of the area. The first Sid’s Pub opened in 2007, others following suit in close succession. Besides being dog and children friendly, warm and welcoming service is expected when you take a trip down to a Sid’s Pub. Regular patrons have grown accustomed to its hearty meals, good company and spirited chatter. They cook a mean pork burger with bacon and cheese topping that comes with their signature thick chips cooked to a lovely golden hue.
34 Lorong Rahim Kajai 14, TTDI, Kuala Lumpur 60000, M-5A The Village, Bangsar South, 2 Jalan 1/112H, Off Jalan Kerinchi, H2 Taman Tunku, Off Langkat Tunku, Bukit Tunku, Kuala Lumpur 50480, 10, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Damansara Heights 50480
By : Marlina Azmi
Tom, Dick & Harry’s Tom, Dick and Harry’s opened their first outlet in Taman Tun Dr Ismail years ago and successfully won the hearts of the residents and others living outside the area. TTDI’s favourite neighbourhood drinking hole expanded their operations by opening their second branch at The Scott Garden. The biggest appeal of TDH is the fact that they have served more than a traditional bar would. One can find and array of fashionable cocktails alongside staple lagers together with a hearty list of pub grub.
Their specialties include pub classics like pigs in a blanket, porky fries (deep-fried sticks of luncheon meat). More porcine wholesomeness is found in their popular pork knuckle and their weekend big breakfast. Other fan favourites include the chicken crackers, breaded button mushroom, cheese steak sandwiches and their pies are also not to be missed.
Unit S-G-03A, The Scott Garden, Kompleks Rimbun Scott, 289, Old Klang Road, 60000 / 58100 Kuala Lumpur
32lKLLIFESTYLE
CircusA modern bistro by day and a cocktail lounge by night, Circus is the perfect new chic hangout for delicious food and yummy drinks. Offering an impressive menu of 60 choices of cocktails, Circus is situated in Pavilion’s newest lifestyle precinct Fashion Avenue Circus is strategically at the forefront of Pavilion KL’s Jalan Raja Chulan entrance and nearby the KLCC link bridge.
Aside from the wide range of cocktails, they also offer a selection of wines that ranges from the classic to the avant-garde. The interior is completely chic with its ‘mood altering’ lighting effects and modern décor. Customers can also enjoy a puff or two from offer its cigar collection and it is quite a great pair with your favourite drink. Food is not just an additional attraction, it is also a main focus as they are equipped with a skilled chef, who’s expertise is international cuisine.
Lot C3.10.01b, Level 3, Fashion Avenue, Pavilion, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Magnificent Fish & Chips BarThe Magnificent Fish & Chips Bar has stood proudly (and busily) as one of the main attractions in Changkat Bukit Bintang for more than five years. It is still touted to be the city’s dedicated authentic fish and chips joint as it serves the dishes wrapped in newspaper. While elsewhere in the world, fish and chips are often seen as a cheap and cheerful meal, here you have to pay RM20 to RM45 for a single piece of battered fish but the fish served are of very high quality and cooked to perfection.
It is a stylish .mid-to-high end establishment, turning into something of a happening nightspot after the typical dinner crowds have turned in. The menu board offers much more than just fish. There are pies, sausages, fish cakes, curry sauce, mushy peas, and a huge ‘chippy’ breakfast on Sunday mornings.
28 Jalan Changkat Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
KLLIFESTYLEl33
Aji Don Alley
Mee Rebus
If you’re looking for a bowl of comfort food, the mee rebus is definitely it. Many who have tried it claim that it tastes just like the original ones in Johor. The Mee Rebus Baidali serves up a delicious spread of food and for RM4, you will be able to get a serving of their signature dish, which is a mix of mee rebus mamak and mee rebus Jawa. This bowl of goodness is filled with egg noodles complemented with a thick gravy served with sliced hardboiled egg, tofu, bean sprouts, chopped green chilli and garnished with pendaram (crunchy homemade prawn crackers). Our only complain is that the portion is a bit small which leaves you wanting more.
Popiah Basah
The Cita Rasa stall serves up signature small dishes including tauhu bakar, sotong kangkung and popiah basah also known as spring rolls. The popiah basah is as good as it can get. Featuring a standard combination of ingredients such as cooked turnip, juliennes of cucumber, bean sprouts and bits of omelette and fried crushed fritters slathered with a spicy and sweet bean sauce before it is rolled into a cylindrical wrap, the popiah basah is decently priced at RM3.50 for a set of 2.
Tucked in an alley opposite the entrance of Hartamas Shopping Centre lies Warung Aji-Don Alley, a semi alfresco food stall offering a variety of
wholesome local dishes. They have been around for almost a decade and all these years, the main star is still, the infamous Johor ‘mee rebus’.
34lKLLIFESTYLE
Seafood Tom Yam Soup
The seafood tom yam soup from the Aji Don Alley Restaurant is a meal of its own. To our amazement, the standard bowl of soup has a lot of ingredients swimming in it including broccoli, clams, calamari, prawns, fish cakes and crabsticks. The mix of these ingredients are pretty spot on except for the crabsticks as we find it doesn’t help bring out any flavour in the soup at all but for RM5 for a bowl, it’s very much value for the money you spend.
Nasi Ayam Penyet
The Nasi Ayam Penyet seems like the new must-have dish in a lot of stalls and restaurants. At RM5.80, Jajanan Jakarta’s plate of nasi ayam penyet is possibly one of the cheaper options in town. While the chicken is nicely fried and smashed and the sambal served is deliciously spicy, the rice served is, however, a let down. Overly cooked, dry and a bit too crispy, the white rice is almost a spoiler but the clear soup served with the rice set saves the day as it is tasty and helps to give the rice a bit more moisture.
KLLIFESTYLEl35
Cocktails make a great company when you’re going through your ups and downs in life. Be it a night out with your best pals or a drinking session to drain away your sorrows, a good cocktail never fail to do the trick. Here are a few sweet ones for those who are not a fan of the bitter taste of alcohol.
Strawberry MargaritaThe Mezzanine Bar & Lounge at Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur serves many different kinds of alcohol beverages for you to indulge in, but if you’re in for something sweet, the Strawberry Margarita is definitely a must-try. This mix of Triple Sec, Tequila, sugar syrup and fresh strawberry is refreshingly sweet and will give you a tinge of happiness with every sip. The Mezzanine Bar & Lounge is open from 10am to 1am and in the evenings you can sip your drink while listening to the soft, live lounge music performance.
Address: Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur, No.4 Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur
Honey MargaritaThere are many ways to enjoy the sweetness of honey and no honey lover will deny herself a Honey Margarita when chilling out at LOCO Mexican Bar & Restaurant in Changkat Bukit Bintang. The base of the Honey Margarita is a double shot of Jose Cuervo Tequilla, Triple Sec and Cointreau, and a shot of honey is included of course. LOCO Mexican Bar & Restaurant also serves other sweet margaritas like the Rock Melon Margarita as well as the Butterscotch Margarita. Both margaritas have the same base as the Honey Margarita, but with fresh melon purée and Butterscotch Schnapps respectively.
Address: LOCO Mexican Bar & Restaurant, 22 Changkat Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Cocktails
Techny-tiniIf you happen to be in the city centre, do check out the w xyz(SM) bar at the Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral for a glass of Techny-tini. The mix of Vodka citrus spritzer, ice cubes, red grapes and white wine, the cocktail is mildly sweet and tangy at the same time. But if wine is not your cuppa, then try the Hookah Alternative, which is a mixture of Gin, grapefruit cooler and fresh mint for a refreshing taste. w xyz(SM) bar is open from 12pm to 12am daily.
Address: Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral, No 5 Jalan Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur
36lKLLIFESTYLE
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44 LuxeTravel:NewZealand48 LuxeSpa:beUrban51 LuxeShopping:LuxuryPersonalShopper52 LuxeLifestyle:TheSmokehouse, TheMajesticHotelKualaLumpur
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Like all best kept secrets, word eventually gets out, so it’s no surprise - with luxury travel now one of the country’s fastest growing tourism sectors - that the world is waking up to New Zealand’s luxury travel possibilities.
Luxury travellers have almost doubled their spending here in the past decade and, as high-end lodges and tourism experiences notch up international awards and recognition, New Zealand is now firmly fixed on the luxury radar.
For the world-weary, well-travelled visitor, New Zealand offers a genuinely refreshing approach that’s strongly linked to the landscape and all about creating personal and unique experiences - world-class accommodation, service and transport delivered in an intimate and engaging Kiwi manner.
Find out more about the amazing New Zealand escapades at www.newzealand.com.
Text: Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand
New ZealandExplore unspoilt New Zealand’s luxurious destinations
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The art of Maori carving
Cruise Milford Sound
Unspoilt landscapeDrawn firstly to the unspoilt landscape, international visitors are often blown away by the sophisticated infrastructure and services providing all the trappings of a first-class experience topped off with priceless treasures like peace, privacy and safety.
Discerning tourists are continually voting New Zealand their favourite destination. Condé Nast readers recently voted New Zealand their favourite country in the world for the fifth year in a row. And, even in times of economic downturn, those with money to spend are spending it in New Zealand, showing they’re prepared to go the extra mile for a quality experience.
As a relative newcomer to luxury tourism, New Zealand has had the benefit of hindsight, able to draw from the experience of others and create a world-class product with a truly unique Kiwi flavour. Locally grown fine foods, award-winning wines, exclusive accommodation and tailor-made activities all exceed the expectations of the most discerning luxury traveller.
Another element of the New Zealand luxury experience that moves international visitors is the chance to interact with the indigenous culture in an authentic sense. Whether joining a Māori guide to walk in ancient Kauri forests or meeting a contemporary Māori artist in his own studio.
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Fraser Clements
River Terrace, Huka Lodge
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luxury Properties New Zealand’s first luxury property is still the best known multi-award winning Huka Lodge in Taupo that has hosted heads of state and Hollywood stars, and become world famous for its seclusion, unique environment and luxury experience.
Newer properties like The Farm at Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, have quickly earned world-class status. The Cape Kidnappers golf course was recently voted top in the world by Britain’s Daily Telegraph newspaper.
At no extra cost is New Zealand’s natural asset, the landscape, with mountains, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, wide open spaces and miles of sparkling blue seas. Luxury yachts and launches provide travellers with an exclusive floating option to explore New Zealand by water, and there are hundreds of islands and secluded moorings within easy reach of the main centres.
Cruise MarketThe cruise market is also on the up, and the current figure of nearly 100 luxury liners visiting New Zealand each summer is set to increase as cruise companies rise to world demand.
As well as the chance to sail the subtropical waters of the Bay of Islands in the north of New Zealand - where dolphins and whales are a common sight - many liners take passengers on a dramatic journey into Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park where bush-clad peaks rise from the still blue waters, waterfalls cascade hundreds of metres into deep coves, and wildlife abounds.
rat race escapees Escaping the rat race is one of the main reasons luxury travellers come to New Zealand and visitors list the seclusion, easily achieved privacy, restorative health benefits and infectious warmth of the people as key factors.
One of the mistakes visitors commonly make is not allowing enough time to enjoy the New Zealand experience and, despite the ease of travel and accessibility of facilities, people frequently say they wish they could stay longer.
With the chance to walk for days and not see another soul, fly in to a remote fishing spot hours from civilisation, soak in a spa under the stars, entertain in a private lodge with your personal chef, dine on your own freshly caught seafood and escape into anonymity - it’s easy to see why.
Escaping the rat race is one of the main reasons luxury travellers come to New Zealand...
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be Urban WellnessKuala Lumpur’s uber-hip all-in-one wellness centre
By: Nicolette Ng
11/F Work @ Clearwater,Jalan Changkat Seamantan,
Damansara Heights, 50490 KLT: +6 (03) 2095 1999F: +6 (03) 2095 8718
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Oxygen chamber
Lounge area
Jacuzzi
After a long week of non-stop interviews, back-to-back photoshoots and endless hovering over the keyboard, all I could ever wished for was a day off to pamper myself, and that was exactly what I
got at be Urban Wellness!
Located on the eleventh floor of WORK@Clearwater in Damansara Heights, be Urban Wellness is a centre that employs a holistic and preventive approach to health, while harnessing breakthrough technologies that deliver expedient, measurable results. Its services are divided into six different categories – be Whole, be Beautiful, be Pampered, be Rejuvenated, be Bionic and be Well.
Since I was there to chill and relax, I decided to skip the be Bionic section – a gym that offers the latest fitness equipment and accredited R.E.H.A.B. to motivate you and escalate your training – and headed straight to be Pampered for a Balinese massage. The Balinese massage is a strong full body massage that combines acupressure, reflexology, stretching and aromatherapy.
After just 60 minutes of massage, I could feel the difference in my body. My shoulders felt like a ton of weight was lifted off it and I was walking on cloud nine. My therapist definitely got the job done with flying colours without causing me to scream like a little schoolgirl due to excessive pressure.
With my very relaxed new self, I moved to be Rejuvenated to catch up with some sleep in the floatation tank. The floatation tank is used to eliminate external physical stimuli for a state of pure and profound sensory relaxation.
I had never been able to float in my life, so I was a bit worried about getting into the tank although the water was only knee deep. I guess I was more worried that I wouldn’t be able to float, but the therapist assured me otherwise. As I got into the sci-fi looking tank, I was told to lie on my back and just relax. I did exactly what I was told and in an instant, I was floating like a boei in the middle of the sea before falling into deep sleep. I couldn’t recall what happened after that, but I do remember waking up feeling more energetic, refreshed… and a tad bit hungry.
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The Ritz-Carlton Suite Bathroom
After lunch, my day at be Urban Wellness resumed with be Beautiful where I had a 30-minute 4X Reshape treatment on the back of my thigh. The 4X Reshape simultaneously contour and shape the body while getting rid of stubborn cellulite. The therapist started the treatment with a vacuum-like machine, sucking on different sections on the back of my thigh repetitively followed by a massage by the therapist.
Combining RF, infra-red light, vacuum suction and massage, this leading FDA approved non-surgical device that effectively and safely contours, shapes and slims the body by reducing cellulite and firming action, is a hit in Hollywood.
Following my 4X Reshape treatment was a 30-minute 3D Glow facial. The treatment uses RF heat for volumetric tightening and collagen regeneration optimised to give you younger looking skin. Being a skeptic when it comes to beauty treatments, it took me only 30 minutes to see for myself and believe what a facial can actually do for your face. Now there’s no reason for me to say I have no time for facials anymore.
Then it was time to conclude my pampering day with a 60-minute session in the oxygen chamber. Commonly used by world-class athletes and celebrities, including the late Michael Jackson, the oxygen chamber dramatically improves oxygen delivery to tissues throughout the body to fully rejuvenate from within. Oxygen therapy speeds up the healing by four times, build peak performance and beauty.
If you’re claustrophobic, fret not. The friendly staff at be Urban Wellness will try their best to help you calm your nerves and find ways to make sure you’re comfortable in the oxygen chamber.
After seven hours, five treatments and a whole lot of pampering, I left be Urban Wellness as a new person and ready to take on another round of non-stop routine work. If you don’t have seven hours to spare, be Urban Wellness has short and sweet programme that will suit your lifestyle, so there’s no reason for you to not make time to pamper yourself after a month of hard work.
Floatation tank
Gym
Couple’s treatment room
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Personal shoppers have been widely engaged over the years even in Malaysia. Now the latest in luxury lifestyle is about to take off in Kuala Lumpur. Meet Luxury Personal Services (LPS), a company
dedicated to offering customers the ultimate shopping indulgence. With offices already set up in Madrid and Hong Kong, they have decided to spread their services here in Kuala Lumpur as the launching pad for their Southeast Asia take over in revolutionising the shopping and luxury world.
LPS, a company dedicated to luxury services, offers a new change of lifestyle through image consultation for men and women, luxury travel tours mainly in Europe and US and managing invites to exclusive events and collection launches.
“We are dedicated to our customers’ satisfaction and are very committed to making their lives easier by assisting them in combining styles and creating overall looks, choosing unique jewellery pieces, helping them shop for important gifts, making travel arrangements and even providing the most exclusive experiences in the world,” says Sara García Arjona, managing director of Luxury Personal Services. Their sole mission is to make their clients feel like a real star, adapting them to new trends, and introducing them into an elite class of society by putting styles together that do will surely turn heads their way at any occasion.
“We are also partners with a very unique and exclusive club in Madrid, Spain called Luxury Purple Club. The idea behind each of these clubs is to create private spaces where all members are able to customise their tailored suits while having exclusive beverages, get limited edition jewellery pieces, run private business meetings and celebrations with friends, enjoy international gastronomic adventures, attend art exhibitions, as well as receive international investment advice from our experts and most importantly, this club allows a healthy interaction with all of our pristine members at an international level which facilitates business opportunities,” she continues.
These services made available in the most exclusive shopping malls is set to draw a large number of attention from high end shoppers in Kuala Lumpur. For more enquiries of their services, contact Sara G. Arjona at [email protected].
Revolutionising Luxury Lifestyle
Enjoy the luxury of personal shoppers attending to your every need
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The Smokehouse, Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Indulge in the resurrection of a traditional lifestyle right here in Kuala Lumpur
By: Marlina Azmi
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Jacuzzi
Lavishing its guests with the utmost comfort is the top of The Majestic Hotel’s priority list. It caters to the guests’ whims and fancies by ensuring ample amount of facilities and services are made available
at all times and continuously works hard to guarantee a top notch, memorable and comfortable stay at the hotel. Built in the 1930s and located right across from the Moorish-inspired old railway station, The Majestic used to be known as one of South-East Asia’s grandest hotels and, indeed, with its recent reopening, following a massive refurbishment, it looks set to reclaim that throne once again.
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur is a smoke-free hotel but to cater to its smoking guests needs, YTL Hotels created a Smokehouse in one of the smaller buildings within the hotel grounds. The Smokehouse is inspired by the style of gentlemen’s clubs of 18th century London’s West End, which played the role as entertainment hubs for the aristocrats. These clubs were segmented based on their members’ interests; whether it was politics, literature, art, travel or even sports.
These clubs played a role of second homes for men, as they would go to relax, socialise with their peers, dine and even spend the night there. Expatriates visiting London would use clubs such as the East India Club or the Oriental Club as a base back then too. Women also started their own clubs at the end of the 19th century, which included the Ladies Institute and Ladies Athenaeum that turned out to be quite a hit.
The tradition of the original gentleman’s club continues to flourish and the opening of more modern but private clubs such as The Groucho Club, Soho House and Home House in London and other parts of Britain is an on-going lifestyle trend. The Smokehouse, reminiscent of an old gentleman’s club where ladies too can join in the fun, provides an informal and inviting venue for guests and members to socialise and interact. The venue is aptly decked with sitting areas and reading rooms with newspapers and other reading material, giving guests an additional area to rest and relax. The Smokehouse is more than just a spot to light
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Coffee place
Bar
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up a cigar or catch up on reading. Hotel guests will get to enjoy services including a gentleman’s tailor, where guests will be able to have their shirts, trousers, jackets and suits tailored without having to leave the hotel. Measurements and fittings are all done at the Smokehouse to ensure that guests will get the perfect fit fuss free.
Downstairs, you’ll be transported to the good old days in the grooming room, the gentlemen’s only barber, Truefitt and Hill, where guests will be able to get professional hair services to look their best for events, weddings or business meetings. Established in 1805, London-based Truefitt & Hill maintains the world’s oldest barbershop and offers a range of products that come from 200 years of research and intimate customer relationships. You will also find the Screening Room, a lounge that screens black-and-white movies and adorned with maroon leather armchairs which enhance the rustic theme of the gentleman’s club.
You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy these amazing facilities and services as The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur offers special membership packages for Kuala Lumpur’s ladies and gentlemen. For just a nominal sum per annum, all members are entitled to a complimentary meal for two at one of the restaurants, Contango, a 2D/1N stay in the Colonial Suite of The Majestic Wing and access to the gymnasium and swimming pool. Members of The Gentlemen’s Club will also get to enjoy 12 sessions of barber services at Truefitt & Hill, membership to the LHW Leader’s Club, part of the Leading Hotels of the World, a personalised smoking jacket and a 20 per cent discount off liquor and cigars at The Smokehouse.
Cigar room
Card room
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Zombie movies just won’t stay dead. This month sees the release of another promising blockbuster hit, World War Z, starring Hollywood heartthrob, Brad Pitt. Here are our top three picks for the most iconic zombie flicks ever made.
Night of the Living Dead (1968)The dead come back to life and eat the living in this classic low-budget film by the zombie master, George Romero. The zombies are much slower but still pose a threat to the people who have barricaded themselves inside a rural house in an attempt to survive the night.
Monstrous Blockbuster Hits
Opening: June 20We can never get enough of zombie apocalypse flicks and World War Z is set to enthral moviegoers with its spin on a post apocalyptic world. The story centres on United Nations employee Gerry Lane (Brad Pitt), who traverses the world in a race against time to stop the zombie pandemic that is toppling armies and governments, and threatening to decimate humanity itself.
Cast: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Eric West, James Badge Dale, David Morse and Matthew Fox.
World War Z
28 Days Later (2002) Danny Boyle’s horror flick not only gives rise to the fast zombie, it also makes time in the midst of the violence to humanise the fellow travellers. Sandwiched between undead fists full of human meat are touching scenes in supermarkets, where strangers learn to trust one another. And it only makes it that much more sad when they’re killed off.
Zombieland (2009) Sassy, smart and hilariously funny, Zombieland works because it addresses the many problems with so many zombie movies; characters always break the most important rules. But not in this film, which follows a group of strangers embarking across country looking for a safe haven.
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After Earth
Jurassic Park 3D
Jurassic Park Trivia
Opening: May 30There are just so many ways to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Jurassic Park and releasing a 3D version of the epic film is a brilliant one indeed. You could go on and on about the nostalgia level but one thing is certain, Jurassic Park stands the test of time on every level. With the remastering of the epic into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Steven Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award-winning blockbuster to a new generation of moviegoers and allows longtime fans to experience the world he envisioned in a way that was unimaginable during the film’s original release.
Cast: Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Samuel L. Jackson and Richard Attenborough.
Opening: June 20One thousand years after cataclysmic events forced
humanity’s escape from Earth, Nova Prime has become mankind’s new home. Legendary General Cypher Raige
(Will Smith) returns from an extended tour of duty to his estranged family, ready to be a father to his 13-year-old
son, Kitai (Jaden Smith). When an asteroid storm damages Cypher and Kitai’s craft, they crash-land on a now unfamiliar and dangerous Earth. As his father lies dying in the cockpit, Kitai must trek across the hostile terrain to recover their rescue
beacon.
Cast: Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Isabelle Fuhrman and Zoe Kravitz.
In 1994, the film won all three Academy Awards it was nominated for: Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Mixing, and
Best Sound Editing.
Michael Crichton originally conceived a screenplay about a graduate student who recreates a dinosaur he continued to wrestle with his fascination with dinosaurs and cloning until
he began writing the novel, Jurassic Park.
Jurassic Park was broadcast on television for the first time on May 7, 1995, following the April 26 airing of The Making
of Jurassic Park. Around 68.12 million people in the US tuned in to watch, garnering NBC a 36 percent share of all
available viewers that night.
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