Partnerships

KL’s Damansara Heights is ripe for property investment – and this is your top option

September 23, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with Guocoland

With a plethora of options and a myriad of different factors to consider, it can be overwhelming to decide on the right residential property to invest in. Do you want something that’s smack in the middle of the concrete jungle, or a little closer to nature? Should you prioritise a place that fits the needs of a particular demographic or age group, or opt for something timeless?

DC Residensi in Kuala Lumpur’s Damansara Heights – which consists of 370 luxury ready-to-move apartments constructed on 8.5 acres of land within the Damansara City integrated development – ticks all the boxes, offering an investment opportunity with huge present and future upside.

KL’s Damansara Heights — Photo: DC Residensi

A prestigious address that you can own

Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding urban areas represent the fastest growing region in Malaysia, with a wealth of economic opportunities, robust foreign investment and connectivity to Asia’s other key business centres. Located within the glitzy and affluent Damansara City integrated development, DC Residensi offers a prestigious zip code in a prime location, and is a gateway to the rest of the city.

The freehold, mixed-use development is poised to become the Central Business District of Petaling Jaya and Damansara, with strong growth potential in the coming years. It’s also situated near three major highways and within walking distance of the Pusat Bandar Damansara MRT station, which offers seamless rail connections to the rest of the city.

Close to all the action

Besides being part of Damansara Heights’ first integrated development, DC Residensi is also conveniently located near some of Kuala Lumpur’s top shopping malls, fine-dining restaurants and key attractions. In addition to the Damansara City Mall, residents are within easy reach of Publika, Bangsar Shopping Centre, Mid Valley Megamall, The Gardens Mall and the upcoming Pavilion Damansara Heights, offering plenty of options for retail therapy.

There’s no shortage of cafes, bistros and restaurants to dine at either. Head to European fine-dining establishment Soleil Restaurant & Bar, led by renowned Belgian chef Evert Onderbeke, on the second floor of the Damansara City Mall. Located one level above is Kikubari, which serves artfully plated Japanese fusion food. For top-notch cafe food, swing by Yellow Brick Road, situated right beside Pavilion Damansara Heights. Another notable restaurant is Birch, an upscale venue on the ground floor of the Damansara City Mall that serves one of the best burnt cheesecakes in town.

Beautiful residences

At the end of the day, the most important aspect of a residential investment is the property itself, and DC Residensi certainly does not disappoint. From floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the city all the way down to the kitchen fitted out with Poggen Pohl and Miele appliances, every detail provides residents with the best.

The units – which range between one-bedroom units and three-bedroom apartments, spanning up to 2,982ft² – come with an ornate and contemporary design. Walnut parquet flooring and plenty of marble are used throughout the space, upping both the luxury and aesthetic factor.

Luxurious facilities

In addition to the well-appointed units, DC Residensi has shared facilities that elevate the overall residential experience. Each of the two towers is serviced by three lift lobbies, and there is an additional grand lobby with a five-star concierge service.

The development is also outfitted with a multi-tier security system, giving you peace of mind at all hours. Fitness buffs can get their sweat on in the glass-walled gymnasium or go for a swim in the 50-metre salt-water pool. There’s also a barbecue area, mini theatre and social space for hosting small gatherings, as well as a terrace and reading cocoon deck when you just need some time to yourself.

Here’s an exclusive deal for members of Enrich, Malaysia Airlines’ loyalty programme. From now till 31 December 2020, enjoy special privilege offers when you make a booking at DC Residensi’s show unit and flash your Enrich member ID. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information on DC Residensi, click here.

Irshad Mobarak: From banker to Malaysia’s most prominent naturalist

September 9, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with The Datai Langkawi

A celebrated nature conservationist in Malaysia and beyond, Irshad Mobarak gets his message out any way he can. Aside from appearing in nature documentaries, giving a TEDx Talk, authoring a book about Langkawi and winning Digi’s Amazing Malaysian Award in 2007, he is also the co-founder of tour operator JungleWalla and the resident naturalist at luxury eco-resort The Datai Langkawi.

Based in Langkawi for about 32 years, Irshad has dedicated his career to conserving the flora and fauna of Southeast Asia’s first Unesco Global Geopark. He was the first person in the country to spot and capture a recording of the elusive mountain hawk-eagle in Langkawi, alongside the late wildlife expert Miles Badeley.

Needless to say, Irshad is the best possible guide to help nature enthusiasts navigate Langkawi’s over 550 species of butterflies, 260 species of birds, 90 species of reptiles and about 50 species of mammals.

Here, we speak to the man himself about his body of work in conservation, how his role at The Datai Langkawi has evolved and what makes this Malaysian island worth a visit.

How did you get into nature conservation?

I come from a family that loves the outdoors and sports. On most school holidays, my father would bring the entire family to camp at a beach, stay in remote locations in the jungle or go trekking in search of waterfalls, durian and other wild fruits while visiting family friends at a small village town. My best memories are of playing, running, swimming and paddling in dugout canoes with Orang Asli kids at Tasik Bera in Pahang. So I was exposed to nature in all its glory at a very young age.

I remember, at the age of nine, while watching a nature documentary featuring my childhood hero, David Bellamy, my father asked me what I wanted to do when I grew up. I said, “I would like to be just like that man on TV, a wildlife ranger – that was what I thought he was – and I want to protect wildlife and nature”.

Was that what you did right after you graduated from school?

No, I became a banker at the age of 20, mostly because the company had a great rugby team, which I wanted to be a part of. Eventually, after four and a half years, I realised I had joined the industry for the wrong reasons. At the same time, I’d taken a trip to Tioman Island and was mesmerised by the beauty of the rainforest and the colours of the underwater world. I knew that I couldn’t continue sitting in an office, pushing paper. So I made the decision to leave the bank, bummed around for a couple of years, before finally coming to Langkawi and making it my home about 32 years ago.

What are some memorable highlights of your career as a naturalist?

I was able to travel to the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, as well as Wallacea in Indonesia, visit the same sites that Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace, the co-founders of the theory of evolution, visited. To walk upon the very same beaches these legends had walked upon, take the same sea passages they took and see the same creatures they saw, albeit 150 years later, was a wonderful thing.

Tell us more about your role at The Datai Langkawi.

I have been with The Datai Langkawi for nearly 27 years and my role has evolved through the years. I’ve been leading nature walks with our guests since the very beginning. In the years that followed, I have curated many different nature experiences within The Datai Langkawi’s land bank, as well as several excursions that are a short drive away from the resort.

How have things changed since you first started?

We made the most changes to our nature offerings within the last four years, when Khazanah Nasional took over and placed The Datai Langkawi under Themed Attractions Resorts & Hotels’ management and general manager Arnaud Girodon’s leadership. Now, we have a team of two naturalists and two marine biologists, and a new Nature Centre. I now serve as the resort’s head naturalist and have expanded our offerings to include both land and marine-based activities. I have also travelled on behalf of The Datai Langkawi in search of potential sites in Malaysia to build a second resort.

What’s unique about the landscape and biodiversity of Langkawi?

Langkawi is well known for its stunning landscape and seascape, featuring sheer sandstone cliffs and sub-rounded limestone outcrops rising majestically out of the ocean. No other island in the region can compare to Langkawi’s rich geological history. A story that began nearly 550 million years ago, the island had witnessed some of the planet’s most significant geological events that saw a succession and diversity of rocks being laid down. This diversity of rocks determined the island’s diversity of flora, which in turn determined the island’s amazing diversity of fauna.

You can find several species of endemic plants and some special creatures that we like to call our fabulous, little flying five, namely, flying dracos – Latin for dragons – flying lemurs, flying foxes, flying squirrels and flying snakes, which are harmless I’d like to add.

To book a stay at The Datai Langkawi and take part in the variety of nature activities organised by resident naturalist Irshad Mobarak, contact the resort at +60 4 9500 500 or reservations@dataihotels.com. Residents of Malaysia and Singapore are also entitled to exclusive offers, more details of which can be found here.

Business Insight: How to create a sustainable business in Malaysia

September 9, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with INCEIF

A survey published in 2020 by Cambridge Assessment International Education (Cambridge International) found that four out of five Malaysian teens and students want careers that allow them to make a positive impact on social and environmental issues. This means working for companies that embody such values or creating a sustainable business of their own. Social responsibility has also become a priority among investors and consumers, according to Professor Dato’ Dr Azmi Omar, the president and CEO of INCEIF (The Global University of Islamic Finance).

“On the global finance and economic stage today, it is increasingly evident that the relentless pursuit of profit above all else is not serving the needs of the world population,” he says. “More investors – institutions and individuals – want their money to be invested sustainably or to make a positive impact. Consumers also are making their purchasing decisions with the environment in mind.”

But how should businesses embrace sustainability? The first step is to understand that sustainability goes beyond environmental concerns and cosmetic fixes such as recycling office paper. Economic and social sustainability are part of the equation.

Here are a few tips to building a profitable business that makes a positive difference.

1. Start with a clear purpose

Beyond your profit goals, what is the greater purpose of your business? Why did you establish the company in the first place? Once you’ve figured out the answers to these questions, keep them in mind while making those executive decisions. They will guide the core principles, values and beliefs with which you run the business, which will remain the same no matter the changes and challenges your company goes through.

2. Hire people who reflect your company’s values

A company is nothing without its employees. Make sure each member of your company, from senior management executives to frontline staff, believes in your vision and sustainability goals, and are motivated on both personal and professional levels to achieve them. This empowers employees on every level to step up and contribute to the success of the organisation’s sustainability efforts.

3. Optimise your use of resources

A sustainable business requires sustainable resources, which ideally should not be finite or detrimental to the environment. Start by cataloguing all the resources you’ll need and consider the source and significance of each material. How much does your business rely on certain resources and where do they come from? Eliminate unnecessary items and refine your manufacturing process to save time and money, while reducing waste. As for indispensable resources, think about sourcing them locally, replacing them with more sustainable alternatives and reducing, reusing and recycling them.

4. Get creative and challenge the status quo

Most tried-and-tested strategies for business success are based on prioritising profit over the planet and its people. Companies earn money by capitalising on cheap resources, whether it’s using problematic materials like palm oil or underpaying employees. After all, it doesn’t make business sense to go green if it’s going to cost the company more money than it can make. This is where creativity comes in. Don’t be afraid to innovate and find solutions that strike a balance between sustainability and profitability.

Learn how to build a sustainable business at INCEIF

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur with a passion for social enterprises, consider an MBA in Sustainable Business from INCEIF. Developed and fine-tuned by industry veterans, this newly launched MBA equips students with knowledge in business management, marketing, data analytics, Islamic finance and sustainability in management and investment.

“As more people seek to be more sustainable environmentally, socially and financially, Islamic finance, with its emphasis on maximising positive value creation and preventing negative impact, looks to be a natural solution,” says Professor Omar.

This programme tackles the “knowledge gaps among financiers in the understanding of social entrepreneurship and sustainable or green financing, including the technical aspects of renewable energy, sustainable agro-production and manufacturing”. Students are also primed to create business solutions that champion the values of inclusivity and integrity, learning how to be profitable while making a social impact.

Seeking to create the next generation of socially-conscious leaders, the inaugural course includes action-based learning, where students get exposure to working on real-world projects with companies like EcoKnights, Ethis Ventures and QSR Brands. Students can also choose between a full-time course, which takes about two years to complete, or a three-year, part-time course.

To find out more about INCEIF’s newly launched MBA in Sustainable Business programme, click here.

Shop local: Top 4 Malaysian beauty brands you’ll love

September 8, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with the following advertisers

In celebration of Malaysia Day, a holiday that falls on 16 September each year and commemorates the formation of the Federation of Malaysia, we’ve launched the Shop Local series, where we highlight our favourite Malaysian brands and businesses. Here is a round-up of homegrown beauty brands with top-of-the-line skincare products, ranging from face masks that use a microneedle treatment technology, to dual-function solutions that work as both a toner and a serum.

Ischia

A renowned cosmetics brand in Korea that expanded into Malaysia in 2018, Ischia – exclusively distributed in Malaysia by K2PALM – takes inspiration from the healing properties of the volcanic island of Italy’s Ischia to create its line of anti-aging, skincare products. Its Ischia Miracle Marine Collagen collection, in particular, has undergone extensive research and development and produced five top-of-the-line offerings that are gentle on the skin, free of parabens and mineral oil, and made with volcanic ash extract, marine collagen and water from the hot springs of Italy.

Incorporate these products into your daily skincare routine, starting with the Cleansing Toner for an easy way to remove your makeup, while moisturising the skin. The Serum in Toner, the first of its kind in Korea and Malaysia to function as both a serum and toner, helps to support the skin barrier, prevent the loss of moisture and keep the skin healthy and glowing. Don’t forget the “For Face” Eye Cream and Concentrated Eye Cream – the former works as a travel-friendly product that can be applied to the face and neck, while the latter is a collagen-rich eye cream that penetrates deeper into dry skin. As for the pièce de résistance, the Magic Gel Mask uses specially formulated hyaluronic acid, which boasts twice the moisturising power of regular hyaluronic acid.

The Bare Skin

The Bare Skin is a Malaysian brand that offers top-notch, cruelty-free skincare products for both men and women, focusing on guilt-free ingredients that do not include alcohol, chemical fragrances, parabens, GMO or animal testing. Since its inception as an online boutique, it has expanded from Malaysia to Taiwan, Singapore, Brunei, Canada, Australia, Macau and the UK, and integrated its online offerings with offline support.

A must-try product is the Microneedle Invisible Mask, which uses a microneedle treatment technology to create nano-sized molecules that penetrates deep into the skin, offers 80 times more moisturising power and nourishment for the skin, while its sheet mask absorbs 25 times more essence than other marks in the market. Made of a breathable, silky-soft material, it works wonders with repairing damaged skin and restoring its vitality.

La’derm

Founded under Malaysia-based parent company Franevyns, which has been around since 1997, La’derm features a diverse catalogue of skincare products that suit every need and skin type. With outlets in Penang, Pahang, Johor Bahru, Seremban and Port Dickson, as well as an online shop, the beauty brand, which originated in Italy, offers everything from acne creams and sunscreens to hand sanitisers and anti-aging solutions.

Among its more notable offerings include the travel-friendly Ultra Bright Balancing Water, a refreshing formula that tackles dark spots and dull skin; the Oxygen Cleansing Milk, which is made with hypoallergenic ingredients and works to exfoliate the skin and remove dirt and oil without disturbing the pH level of the skin; and the Red Ginseng Eye Shining Mask, one of its best-sellers, which features herbal extracts and helps to get rid of eye bags, dark circles and crow’s feet while boosting blood circulation.

NP Skincare

The brainchild of Belle Lim, Reyoung Beaute was established in 2016 to empower women to embrace their beauty. The Malaysian brand is the parent company of NP Skincare, which specialises in skincare and healthcare products, collaborating with prominent aestheticians from Korea, France and the US to produce the crème de la crème of beauty offerings. Its latest collection, named Royale Allure, focuses on anti-aging and skin regeneration solutions such as the Royale Allure Nectar Youth Oil and the Royale Allure Micro Nourishing Creme.

Made with honey extract, propolis extract, beetroot extract and royal jelly (a nutrient-rich, gelatinous secretion produced by honey bees), the Royale Allure Nectar Youth Oil helps to repair damaged skin cells while giving your skin a luminous glow. The Royale Allure Micro Nourishing Creme, on the other hand, aids in increasing the production of collagen and lifting the skin for a more youthful appearance. Suitable for soothing dry, irritated skin, it includes ingredients such as goat milk extract and apricot flower extract, and can be used every morning and night after applying the Nectar Youth Oil.

Shop local: 4 Malaysian wellness brands you need to know

September 5, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with the following advertisers

In celebration of Malaysia Day, a holiday that falls on 16 September each year and commemorates the formation of the Federation of Malaysia, we’ve launched the Shop Local series, where we highlight our favourite Malaysian brands and businesses. Whether you’re shopping for a face mask or looking to improve your wellness in general, here are some homegrown companies and wellness centres that you can check out.

Yinee Beauty Wellness

From correcting rounded backs and spinal misalignments to accentuating waistlines, osteopathic reshaping addresses a number of issues with the body without the use of surgery. With a clinic in Singapore and four in Malaysia, Yinee Beauty Wellness has been offering non-invasive osteopathic reshaping to clients since 2017. The clinic’s TCM and Freehand Technique specialists use nothing but their hands to manipulate your muscles and realign your bones. Even growing children using smartphone devices and heavy backpacks can benefit from osteopathic reshaping. Yinee Beauty Wellness offers free consultations to develop a plan of action tailored to your body’s needs.

Empro

Malaysian cosmetics brand Empro has recently launched a collection of medical and surgical face masks, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. Available in a multitude of colours to match every outfit, each mask is composed of three layers, including two layers of spunbond fabric and an electrostatic filter, made with melt-blown fabric, for maximum protection. Besides boasting top-notch materials, they also come with mask extenders to ensure a comfortable fit for those who wear hijabs or other headdresses, as well as flat ear loops that won’t cause any discomfort even after prolonged use of the masks. While its surgical face masks boast a BFE of 99% or higher, its medical face masks have a BFE of 95% or higher, making sure to prevent the transmission of viral particles. Empro’s MDA-certified surgical and medical face masks also come with an ISO 13485:2016 certification, ensuring that they are of the highest quality available.

Da Vinci Medical

Malaysia’s leading aesthetic clinic, Da Vinci Medical has been featured in a variety of publications and is in the business of beauty transformations. Through its three branches across Kuala Lumpur, Da Vinci’s award-winning team of seasoned, licensed doctors has been serving men and women for over a decade, addressing everything from thinning hair to body contouring.

It offers a range of aesthetic and wellness solutions – from aesthetic dermatology and facials to bespoke body and slimming treatments, as well as hair restoration and removal, and stem cell therapy for joint issues and aging skin. The team prides itself on sensitive, knowledgeable consultations, walking clients through every step of the treatment and the results they can expect – not to mention thorough follow-ups to ensure you recover quickly and effectively.

For consultations, drop by its Mid Valley (15-2, The Boulevard Offices), Cheras (104, Jalan Cerdas, Taman Connaught) or Kepong (83, Jalan Metro Perdana Barat 1, Taman Usahawan Kepong Utara) outlets. Da Vinci Medical is always looking for new talents – from doctors, therapists and consultants to sales and marketing executives. For more information on its current job vacancies, contact Wenny Hoo at wenny@davinciclinic.com.my, or Alaina Tan at alaina.tan@davinciclinic.com.my.

31MM

Keep your health in check with 31MM’s line of health drinks, designed specifically to address weight loss and skincare needs. Among the Malaysian brand’s signature offerings is the DS Passion Fruit Slimming Juice, an additive-free, SGS-certified product. Made with wheatgrass, oat fibre, psyllium husk, passion fruit and bamboo salt, it helps to boost metabolism and burn visceral fat. Other highlights include the O’DX Orange Detox Juice – a fruity concoction, made with with orange, strawberry, blueberry, grapes and aloe vera, for those in need of a detox – and the V-Line Whitening Collagen, an anti-aging product that uses natural ingredients from Japan to help hydrate, whiten and smoothen the skin.

Hero image from Shutterstock

How this Malaysian company managed to achieve its best performance during the MCO

August 31, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with pitchIN

While most of us are probably familiar with reward crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo, equity crowdfunding is perhaps something less known. However, it is fast gaining popularity. In a nutshell, equity crowdfunding involves people investing in an early-stage unlisted company in exchange for shares in said company.

Equity crowdfunding in Malaysia has been around since 2015 and to date, close to RM120 mil has been raised for 108 companies from more than 6,000 investors. And that number is constantly growing. Equity crowdfunding has opened up new opportunities, not only for companies but investors as well.

Sam Shafie, the CEO and co-founder of equity crowdfunding platform pitchIN, says, “While Malaysia has a funding ecosystem comparable to other countries, the Securities Commission of Malaysia is forward looking and it has been steadily introducing proven alternative investment tools and platforms into Malaysia. Adding equity crowdfunding in the mix gives founders fundraising alternatives and for the investment community, a chance to access deals that they may not have access to before.”

Companies that wish to raise their funding on the platform need to fulfil certain regulatory requirements before they are allowed to crowdfund from the general public. In exchange, investors get equity or shares in the company they invest in.

Sam tells Going Places more about pitchIN and how you, as consumers, stand to benefit.

What sets pitchIN apart from other crowdfunding platforms?

pitchIN was founded in 2012, and is a pioneer of crowdfunding in Malaysia. We started as a reward crowdfunding platform before getting approval from the SC to become a recognised market operator and start an equity crowdfunding platform.

Our founders are involved directly in the local startup ecosystem, investing in and mentoring startups. We’ve also developed strong ties with the entrepreneurial ecosystem – from government agencies to venture capitalists and angel investors. Because our team spends time working closely with both the companies and investment community, we can ensure the interests of both parties are taken care of.

Has Covid-19 changed the investment landscape? If so, how?

Prior to the MCO, pitchIN hosted numerous face-to-face events between companies and investors throughout the country. Because of the lockdown, we could no longer host events and faced a lot of uncertainty.

However, we quickly pivoted to online meetings and continued operations as usual. We have been pleasantly surprised by the results. In the three months that Malaysia was under the MCO, pitchIN had its best-ever quarterly performance – raising close to RM10 mil for four companies. In fact, things are still going really well. In the first half of 2020, we have already surpassed the total amount raised in the entire 2019.

Why should people consider getting into equity investing, particularly in relation to pitchIN?

Equity crowdfunding is a great place for investors to discover and invest in fast growing companies with high potential. Equity crowdfunding has democratised investing and fundraising. With equity crowdfunding, investors can diversify their investment portfolio by investing in smaller amounts in a number of companies, which helps manage their investment risks. We welcome investors from anywhere. Malaysia’s equity crowdfunding guidelines allow anyone in the world to invest in deals on platforms like pitchIN. As a matter of fact, to date, investors from 27 countries have made investments in deals on pitchIN.

At pitchIN, we are constantly looking for companies that will be able to reward their investors. Being investors ourselves, we not only look for markets that are growing but also companies that have figured out how to scale their companies while managing the challenges that come with growing a company. Sixty companies have been successfully funded to date, so you can imagine the variety of deals available for investors.

Founders of OXWHITE, a luxury lifestyle brand which raised US1.2 million on pitchIN

How do you make sure investors feel safe using an alternative, non-traditional investment platform such as yours?

Every investor needs to know that investing comes with a risk. There is no guarantee that the company will do well. Investing is also different from financing or a loan. Your returns from investment could be very high but you could potentially lose your investment too.

Platforms like pitchIN help mitigate that risk as we are regulated by the Securities Commission (SC), and are mandated to abide by various rules and processes set by the SC. All the deals that are on the platform undergo a due diligence process. There is also a high degree of transparency – companies are mandated to disclose their financial information and investors can easily access the Offer Documents, the amount of funding the companies are seeking and how each campaign is doing.

Investors are also safeguarded in terms of how much money they sink into each investment. Under Malaysian equity crowdfunding guidelines, there are three major categories of investors on the pitchIN platform. The smallest category of investor – retail investors – are advised not to invest more than RM5000 per company and RM50,000 per year. Investors can also withdraw their investment at any time before the closing of the campaign, with a further six-day cooling period at the end.

Investors can also expect quarterly, half-yearly and annual updates from the companies. This is to ensure that investors are keep abreast with information on how the companies are performing. Another point worth highlighting is that equity crowdfunding rides on the power of the crowd. Investors benefit from the feedback, questions and investing decisions made by their fellow investors. pitchIN’s largest backed deal, OXWHITE, drew 485 investors. Plenty of other deals ended up with more than 100 investors each.

Has pitchIN’s focus on discovering good companies been fruitful?

Yes, we are happy to report that the vast majority of companies on pitchIN are doing well. Last year, we saw the first exit for investors. MyCash Online investors were offered exits at 44.2% returns by a venture capitalist after just two years of holding the shares. In addition, we have companies that have issued dividends. A significant number of pitchIN-funded companies have also raised further rounds at higher valuations. pitchIN is very transparent about how the companies are doing. Our annual pitchIN Equity Crowdfunding Report, which can be downloaded from our platform, offers a breakdown of how the different companies are doing.

For more information about pitchIN, visit its website here.

Ask an expert: What is stem cell banking, and can it save your life?

August 31, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with CryoCord

Cryo-preserving stem cells from a newborn’s umbilical cord for life-saving treatments two decades later – it sounds like a sci-fi film, but stem cell banks are very much a present-day reality. A painless and relatively affordable procedure, stem cell banking provides families with a deposit of stem cells that can be used to treat dozens of health complications, from leukemia to strokes.

Among the leading stem cell banks in Southeast Asia, Malaysia’s CryoCord – founded in 2002 by Emeritus Professor Dr. Cheong Soon Keng and Dr. Then Kong Yong – is also leading the way in new research that could expand the medical uses of stem cells.

Here, we speak to CryoCord’s managing director, James Then, about the many advantages of having a private stem cell deposit for your family, as well as how to choose a credible stem cell bank.

For the uninitiated, what are stem cells and cord blood?

Stem cells are the mother of all cells. They possess two key properties: one is the cell renewal property, meaning the cell can split off and make another, and the other is cell differentiation, which means they can mature into cells for different parts of the body.

Cord blood – found in the umbilical cord of a newborn – is rich in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that can differentiate into red blood cells, which carry oxygen to various tissues in the body; white blood cells, which provide immunities; and platelets, which aid healing upon injury.

Cord tissue also contains mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which can differentiate into a variety of cells such as heart, cornea, kidney and fat. These stem cells are otherwise found in bone marrow and a few other locations in the body.

So why would we want to cryo-preserve and bank these cells?

A patient who suffers from leukemia or thalassemia major, both deadly blood diseases, would require very strong chemotherapies that would destroy their bone marrow. But a bone marrow transplant requires a perfect match, otherwise the chances of success are very low. With cord blood stem cells, you only need a partial match.

Instead of throwing away the cord and the stem cells it contains when the baby is born, people have been storing them for future use. We’re the first company in Southeast Asia to extract MSCs from cord tissue. This is important as current studies on MSCs are examining their impact on fighting Covid-19 and related immune modulation.

Tell us more about your company, CryoCord.

We launched in 2002 and began offering our clients the option to store MSCs in 2009. We’re the only company in Malaysia actively doing clinical trials on MSCs. Our services are also extremely affordable: you can store stem cells for up to 21 years for RM6,000, which is payable either as a lump sum or through installments.

Is storing and using MSCs an experimental treatment?

Not at all. There are currently six countries in the world that have approved MSC-based therapies in the treatment of a variety of diseases, such as osteoarthritis and diabetic foot ulcers. They include Korea, Japan, India, New Zealand, Canada and the European Medicines Agency.

What sets you apart from other stem cell banks?

We’re one of the oldest and largest, with over 60,000 clients, a number that’s increasing year-on-year. Also, while many other companies simply store the cord tissue, we believe in isolating the cells from the cord tissue. We ensure the tissue we’ve collected has viable stem cells, isolate the cells and grow the cells into a specific number before storing the deposit.

If the cells cannot be extracted for some reason from the tissue, we issue a full refund. Storing cells has a much longer history than storing tissue. The cells are viable after many years of storage, and when needed in an emergency situation, we can quickly culture the cells.

What kinds of emergency situations, and how far can these cells travel?

In emergency situations such as strokes or heart attacks, the cells have to be available at short notice. Our cells are exported as far as the US and Australia, using cold-chain cryo-shippers. It’s a tank where you pour in a small amount of liquid nitrogen, below -190 degrees Celsius, and the shipment can last from a few days to a few weeks. Many logistics companies have specialised divisions for the transport of cells and organs.

What’s the difference between a private stem cell bank such as yours and public donor registries?

At a private bank, the deposit belongs to the family and there’s a very strong chance of a match, as compared to the public bank, where the search for a perfect match can take a long time. Public banks also have limited funding, so they may not collect a wide range of samples or have the resources to store your cells for public use, even if you wanted to donate.

How does one choose a credible stem cell bank?

In addition to being licensed, a credible bank will have good financial practices, and will park their storage fees with a trust, so that should the company go under, the depositors’ cells are still cared for. A stem cell bank that has been accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) and complies with Current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations also has more credibility. Finally, a good bank does not over-promise. Stem cells are a great medical product, but they’re not a cure-all, and treatment for many diseases are still only in the trial stages.

Among the many clients of CryoCord is Malaysian singer and CryoCord ambassador Dato Sri’ Siti Nurhaliza, who has also hopped on the bandwagon and stored her child’s stem cells at the private stem cell bank. To find out more about CryoCord and its services, visit its website here.

A road trip through KL, Kuantan and Cherating

August 30, 2020 by Going Places

With international borders still closed, it’s the ideal time for a great Malaysian road trip – one that begins right at your doorstep. Or, if you aren’t up for quite so much driving and want to start closer to the finish, just take one of Malaysia Airlines’ newly reinstated domestic flights to your starting point, and pick up a rental car from there.

Avis Malaysia, an international car rental brand, is a great option for road trip rentals. It has a comprehensive fleet of modern automobiles that caters to diverse needs. Whether you’re after an SUV that can withstand rough terrain and fit large families or a sleek saloon for a solo trip, Avis Malaysia has you covered. You can rent a vehicle for the weekend or choose from daily, weekly and monthly rental packages. At your request, the delivery and collection of your Avis vehicle may also be arranged for maximum convenience.

Visit any of its 16 outlets in Malaysia, which include branches at Renaissance Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Penang International Airport, Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport and its head office at Glenmarie Industrial Park in Shah Alam.

If you’re looking for a quick getaway from the city to enjoy the wide expanse of sand and sea, you’ll love this trip. The drive from downtown KL is relatively short, but there are plenty of interesting pitstops to make along the way. (For seven other road trip ideas, click here.)

Total distance: 295km

Suggested duration: 3 days, 2 nights

Perfect for: Culture vultures and history lovers

Before you hit the road

The journey from downtown KL to Kuantan takes just 2.5 hours if you drive nonstop but where’s the fun in that? Follow our plan for a more exciting route. If you’re planning to spend a night in the city, KL boasts a myriad of digs ranging from luxury outfits to boutique hotels that offer stunning panoramas of the city skyline.

Check out the rooftop infinity pool at MTree Hotel Puchong. Experiencing the sights of any major city, let alone Malaysia’s frenetic capital, can be both exhilarating and exhausting in equal measure, so having a rooftop sanctuary like this to cool off in is a smart choice. Take a dip as the sun starts to set behind the Puchong skyline before retreating to the lounge for an ice-cold cocktail. The hotel also offers a combination of rooms and suites with high-speed WiFi, feathered pillows and a host of luxurious amenities designed for a relaxing stay.

Options are aplenty too for those who prefer staying in the centre of the action. Located in the heart of the city, Ascott Sentral Kuala Lumpur is home to 157 serviced residences, ranging from studio apartments to three-bedroom units, that boast floor-to-ceiling windows providing unbeatable views of the city below, as well as luxury amenities such as a fully-equipped kitchen, a home entertainment system and, in select units, a washing machine and dryer. The contemporary property, which has gone cashless for convenience and safety, also allows guests flexible check-in and check-out arrangements, and the opportunity to opt for a 24-hour stay. Also available at the hotel are shuttle services, on-call doctors, an in-house clinic, courier and secretarial services, a gym and swimming pools for adults and children.

The next day, before hitting the road, set aside some time to explore KL’s thriving café scene. Swing by TTDI, a neighbourhood popular among locals for its independent coffee roasters and dining spots. Oh Cha Matcha, the brainchild of the sibling duo behind trendy cafes CoffeeSociété and Garage 51, is the country’s first speciality matcha café that blends premium-grade matcha with ingredients such as blue spirulina, ginger and turmeric to create healthy beverages. Try the Ceremonial Matcha, which uses the highest grade of tea leaves grown in Uji, Kyoto and is a favourite of the Emperor of Japan. What’s more, their milky drinks use unsweetened soy milk by default, and you can substitute almond, cashew, oat or coconut milk – all of which are unsweetened as well – at no extra cost. The dusty-pink, Instagram-worthy joint also serves rice bowls, pastas and desserts.

When you’re ready to set off on your journey, look out for durian stalls that can help when you need to refuel. Fans of the King of Fruits can also head to Mountain Cat Durian’s online store and purchase desserts. Made with fresh durian from its own farm in Broga, Selangor, the assorted treats include durian mochi, durian gelato and durian crêpes. The Malaysian brand prides itself on their precise farming and harvesting techniques, and also sells whole durians (varieties such as D24, Musang King and Durian Kampung), the pulp of D24 and Musang King durians, as well as frozen durian paste, which you can use to make your own durian-flavoured desserts when you get back home. Get 15% off with the code, MOUNLC02, when you spend a minimum of RM 200.

Pitstops along the way

Schedule in a visit to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, about 1.5 hours from KL, to witness the great work the sanctuary does in caring for young elephants that have been orphaned by poaching or logging. You can even help the mahouts give the elephants their bath.

On your way to Cherating, stop by Kuantan for a bite to eat. Kuantan, the capital of Pahang, has welcomed some exciting new openings in recent years and oceanfront Puteh Beach Bar is one of them. With its all-white cabanas, beanbag chairs and nightly seafood barbecues, the chic lounge vibes of Bali and Phuket are right here on Malaysia’s east coast. Occupying its own private area on Pantai Balok, diners can enjoy the gorgeous ocean view without interruption. A lunchtime menu offers Italian classics, including various pizzas, though it’s the evening beachside barbecues that really draw the crowds. Groups of five or more can arrange for their own private grill fest. You can even head off to sea to catch your dinner alongside Puteh Beach Bar’s experienced fishermen.

For a bit more variety, stop off at an industrial-chic take on the traditional food court. The open-air White & Black Cabin has graffiti-covered walls made from shipping containers, fairy lights and a vintage automobile above its sign. Even better: it has stalls selling everything from roti John to Cantonese-style noodles. Start with a kaya naan from Sya Naan as an appetiser, before digging into a chicken burger at Koboi Kerinting and washing it down with an Oreo smoothie from Sugar Ant. Open from 5pm to midnight every day except Wednesday, White & Black Cabin’s plethora of choices deserves another visit on the return trip.

The final stretch

From Kuantan, it’ll take you less than an hour to reach the resort town of Cherating, where sun, sand and even a little surf await. The coconut palm-fringed, white sand beach of Pantai Cherating is a must-visit while here; this quiet strip is markedly less touristy than Malaysia’s other beach locales, but boasts some pretty decent swells for surfing. Try your hand at fashioning your own traditional sarong at Limbong Art, a local boutique which also offers inexpensive batik-making workshops and even a chance to pick up some souvenirs.

Although Cherating is largely a backpacker haven, there are luxury digs you can wind down in after a day’s worth of driving and sightseeing. For a beachfront escape, The Kasturi is an upscale resort that is set on beautiful Chendor Beach, sandwiched between the rainforest and the sea. Designed by, and named after, famed Malaysian architect Hijas Kasturi, the resort is made up of villas that each feature an outdoor rain shower, floor-to-ceiling windows and a private pool. If you can convince yourself to leave your plush digs, you’ll find that there’s plenty to see and do throughout the property, from kayaking to helping to release baby sea turtles. What’s more, enjoy 20% off its F&B offerings (applicable to the a-la-carte menu only) with the code, MHKASTURI20, when you book directly with the hotel.

With thanks to our partners Mountain Cat Durian, Ascott Sentral Kuala Lumpur, Oh Cha Matcha, Puteh Beach Bar, White & Black Cabin, MTree Hotel Puchong and The Kasturi

A road trip through Johor, Port Dickson and Terengganu via KL

August 28, 2020 by Going Places

This epic road adventure takes you from Johor Bahru in the south to Terengganu in the east, with highlights along the way including dreamy beaches, mouthwatering traditional cuisines and plenty of retail therapy along the way. Buckle up! (For seven other road trip ideas, click here.)

Total distance: 826km

Suggested duration: 4 days, 3 nights

Perfect for: Foodies and beach lovers

Before you hit the road

The drive from Johor Bahru to Port Dickson is relatively short (just over three hours) but you can maximise your road trip by making stops along the way at towns such as Batu Pahat, Muar, Malacca and Seremban. Starting in Johor, grab a cup of joe for the road. The once-sleepy enclave of pre-war buildings along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee and Jalan Dhoby are now home to indie coffee enterprises like The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen and Chaiwalla & Co.

Shopping is a must while you’re in this mall haven – and so are its sumptuous hotel buffet offerings. Located in Johor Bahru’s bustling Pusat Bandar Tampoi district, Angsana JB Mall is the city’s premier leisure and entertainment destination. With over 240 retail outlets across five levels, the mall boasts an assortment of global and local brands, ranging from trendy fashion labels to high-end jewellery stores, as well as boutiques specialising in kebayas and sarongs. Here, you’ll also find an array of attractions such as a bowling alley, a video arcade and a karaoke bar as well as two large food courts packed with international flavours.

After a day of shopping, check in to DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru and embark on an epicurean journey. Fuel the day’s sightseeing with a gourmet lunch at The Food Store. Be sure to make it back in time for the hotel’s high-tea service, where savoury bites and sweet treats are served all afternoon from Friday to Sunday. In the evening, the chefs at Makan Kitchen prepare Indian, Chinese and Malay dishes from the live cooking stations. Meanwhile, up on the 13th floor, Tosca Italian Trattoria promises its own culinary spectacle with fine Italian dining overlooking the Straits of Johor.

Those travelling with kids in tow can make time for every child’s dream destination, LEGOLAND Malaysia. Just a few steps away from the iconic theme park is the conveniently located Somerset Medini Iskandar Puteri, a contemporary property with 310 serviced residences. Go for its largest three-bedroom suite, which includes a living and dining area, a kitchen and enough room to fit a family of six. The property also provides babysitting services, on-call doctors and top-notch facilities such as a children’s play room and wading pool, an outdoor swimming pool and a gym.

Pitstops along the way

After your little ones have burned off enough energy, it’s time to hit the road and head north to Seremban. While perhaps it’s Malacca that is best known for its delicious traditional food, Seremban is no lightweight either. This underrated foodie haven is most famous for the Seremban siew pau, a flaky pastry bun with a meat filling.

To break up your drive, get some shuteye at the cosy boutique hotels here. D&F Boutique Hotel, which has three outposts (one of which opened recently in July 2020) in Seremban, the capital of Negeri Sembilan, is only 40 minutes away by car from Port Dickson Beach. Stylish yet intimate, this hotel – opened in 2012 – promises a stay that feels like a home away from home. Perfect for solo travellers or small groups looking to explore the less mainstream sights of Malaysia, it offers a comfortable base from which to discover Seremban’s charming shophouses and foodie favourites, such as Seremban Seafood Village, as well as the beautiful Gunung Angsi.

From Seremban, it’s just 30 minutes to the resort town of Port Dickson, where you can feast on fresh seafood. If you love your crabs, hit up Weng Yin Seafood Village for a hearty feast. After your meal, soak up the sun at Ancasa Residences Port Dickson, a short walk from Port Dickson Beach or an hour by car from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, in case your journey is just beginning here. The tropical resort offers spacious apartments with modern Asian-inspired furnishings, complete with a living area, kitchenette and private balcony that overlooks the sea. Drop by Saffron Brasserie, a laid-back restaurant with buffet-style offerings and picturesque views of the hotel’s swimming pool and lush garden. The Balinese-inspired AnCasa Spa features a range of treatments and therapies, which you can enjoy in an outdoor gazebo.

Once you’re ready to hit the road again, continue on to Kuala Lumpur on the North-South Highway before cutting across the interior of the country and taking the scenic B-roads that hug the eastern coastline all the way to Terengganu. Stop by the Lentang Forest Reserve, an hour from downtown KL, where you can cool off in one of the many natural pools. Alternatively, drive a little further on to the Sungai Pandan waterfall for a dip beneath the 100m-high cascading rapids, followed by a relaxing picnic lunch.

If you need to make a pit stop at Kuala Lumpur, consider a stay at AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur. Situated beside Chinatown, and close to various train stations, this recently refurbished contemporary hotel has 294 cosy guest rooms to rest in while en route to Terengganu. In addition to being a stone’s throw away from must-visits such as the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Merdeka Square and River of Life, it also has an in-house, all-day dining restaurant serving Asian classics, a vintage-style bar and a spa – so you can either stay in and recharge or hit the sights before driving on.

The final stretch

When you get to Terengganu, find out more about the city’s artistic heritage at the Terengganu Handicraft Centre or the Bazar Warisan (Heritage Bazaar). Feeling peckish? Nasi dagang (a coconut milk rice served with curry) is to the east coast what laksa is to Penang, and Terengganu is home to a myriad of hole-in-the-wall eateries that serve the state’s signature dish. Nasi Dagang Atas Tol is well-known among locals, so be sure to visit this decade-old establishment.

Golf enthusiasts will love the Kuala Terengganu Golf Resort, located in the quiet town of Gong Badak, just a 20-minute drive from the city centre. With its undulating fairways and manicured greens sculpted into the surrounding natural forest, there’s a challenge on offer throughout this 18-hole course, whatever your ability. Over at the clubhouse, cool off in the outdoor pool before treating yourself to dinner on the terrace of in-house restaurant Saffron Brasserie. If you’re spending the night, choose from a standard room or suite, both of which come with private bathrooms and air conditioning.

Terengganu is also the jumping off point for islands such as Redang and the Perhentian Islands, so your adventure does not need to stop here. Hop on a breezy speedboat ride to these tropical idylls for an easy beach escape and even some water activities like snorkelling and diving.

With thanks to our partners Angsana JB Mall, DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru, Somerset Medini Iskandar Puteri, D&F Boutique Hotel, AnCasa Residences Port Dickson, AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Terengganu Golf Resort

8 of Malaysia’s best road trips

August 27, 2020 by Going Places

With international borders still closed, it’s the ideal time for a great Malaysian road trip – one that begins right at your doorstep. If, however, you aren’t up for quite so much driving and want to start closer to the finish, just take one of Malaysia Airlines’ newly reinstated domestic flights to your starting point, and pick up a rental car from there.

What’s more, if kicking back on a beautiful white-sand beach – as you sip on an icy cold drink and listen to the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore – sounds like your idea of paradise, we have some great news for you. Redoxon has just launched its Travel Immunity Contest, where you stand the chance to win an all-expenses paid 4D3N holiday at Tanjung Rhu Resort in Langkawi.

The contest runs from 1 September to 31 December 2020, and a total of two families can win the grand prize. All you have to do is post your personal travel immunity story and tips with an accompanying picture; include the caption “I travel with Rexodon because…” and share it on your Facebook or Instagram page. Do remember to set your account to public, include the hashtag #RedoxonTravelImmunity and tag @RedoxonMY.

Wherever you choose to go, we guarantee you’ll be floored by what you see: from dense ancient forests and Unesco Heritage sites, to dreamy coastlines and staggering mountains – not to mention all the amazing food. These eight Malaysian road trips will quench your wanderlust until foreign travel is back on the cards, and make you fall in love with our amazing country all over again.

No trip to Penang is complete without a taste of its world-renowned street food culture

From the nation’s capital to the food capital of Malaysia
Total distance: 355km

Before leaving KL, stop by the beautiful Istana Negara, Malaysia’s national palace, which commands a prime position overlooking the Klang River. You can’t go inside, but you’re welcome to take photos by the main entrance.

Then make your way to Kuala Selangor, before trundling down quiet back roads along the Strait of Malacca to the town of Sabak. Just before you enter Penang, drive through Taiping, voted third-most sustainable city in the world. Stretch your legs with a hike up Bukit Larut, also known as Maxwell Hill. Standing at 1,250m tall, Bukit Larut is no walk in the park, but the fresh air and lack of crowds make it an ideal day climb.

Hop back on the highway into George Town, where you can make a longer stop to explore the heritage sites and slurp up the street food that Penang’s capital is famous for. Make sure to allow enough time for a stop by Butterworth Bird Park (also known as Penang Bird Park), Malaysia’s first and largest avian-focused park.

Suggested stops along the way include:  The Ascott KL, The Somerset KL, De.Wan KL, Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang and Spa, Sunway Hotel Seberang Jaya  and  Projek Nasi Lemak. See our full itinerary here

Buckle up for a food- and culture-filled jaunt in Ipoh

A nature-filled drive that takes you to the Jewel of Kedah
Total distance: 494km

It usually takes less than two hours to reach Ipoh from Petaling Jaya, but to make a trip of it, you could explore Fraser’s Hill along the way, or even make an overnight detour to the Cameron Highlands for some cool mountain air.

To start your drive feeling fresh, stop in Rawang, about 30 minutes from Petaling Jaya on the AH2/E1, for a quick dip in the spectacular Taman Eko Rimba Kanching Waterfalls. There are seven tiers to the waterfall, and each has a pond for swimming.

Drive on another half hour or so and you’ll reach the Selangor Fruit Valley, where you and your family can experience being a farmer for the day and, of course, sample some of the delicious produce.

After a food- and heritage-filled jaunt in Ipoh, make your way farther north to the Kuala Perlis ferry terminal where you can park your car at the port or take it to the island via a car ferry (operated by either Langkawi Auto Express or Langkawi Ro-Ro Ferry Services). Enjoy a mangrove cruise to admire tranquil coastal forests or explore the rice fields around Padang Matsirat on a bike.

Suggested stops along the way include: Sunway Lagoon, Somerset Damansara Uptown Petaling Jaya, Citadines DPulze Cyberjaya, Glaze Eatery, Lost World Of Tambun, Angsana Ipoh Mall, Tiga Bar, Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi. See our full itinerary here

The sleepy resort town of Cherating is an under-the-radar beach locale in Malaysia

A journey marked with key religious sites and royal palaces
Total distance: 367km

Federal Route 3 is one of the most scenic highways not just in Malaysia but in all of Asia. Before you hit the highway, though, pay a visit to Batu Caves, just 20 minutes from central KL. This limestone cave complex houses Hindu temples filled with shrines and mystical dioramas, accessible via 272 rainbow-coloured steps. It’s definitely worth taking a tour to witness some of the fascinating plants and animals that live in the caves.

If you have time for an overnight stop, drive another hour or so up into Genting Highlands. The hotels, shopping malls, theme parks and casinos that make up this sprawling hillside resort guarantee round-the-clock fun. If natural attractions are more your thing, take a hike up Gunung Nuang or pay a visit to Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm to pick (and eat) your own fruit.

From Mersing, the highway joins the coastline, making for some scenic seaside views out the window. At Pekan, which is the royal seat of the Pahang sultanate, you’ll cross the Sultan Abu Bakar Bridge over the Pahang River before continuing on to Kuantan. From there, it’s an hour’s drive to the resort town of Cherating.

Suggested stops along the way include: Element Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Garden Inn Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman South, Miss Ellie Tea House, Ancasa Royale Pekan, Pahang and Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa. See our full itinerary here

Cross the iconic Penang bridge for a scenic, nature-immersed drive to the jewel of Kedah

For a grand Malaysian adventure that takes you up mountains and deep into the sea
Total distance: 120km

Drive over the Penang Bridge and head north to Kuala Perlis. Along the way, stop at Tupah Recreational Forest in Kedah. This lowland forest has a mighty river running through it and is a popular spot to hike, swim and picnic. Adventure-seekers can do an additional detour further south, to the Lojing Highlands, which form the start of the trail up Mount Yong Belar. It’s not an easy climb, even if you’re fit, but the views are worth it.

When you arrive at Kuala Perlis, take your car on the ferry to Langkawi or leave it in a parking lot, which costs about RM10 per day.

When you have had enough time lounging out in one of Langkawi’s many beach bars, head on a hike to Gunung Raya Reserve Forest’s granite peak. Schedule in enough time for birdwatching, kayaking and dives to explore the secret sights of the seabed.

Suggested stops along the way include: Stone Nine, Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La, JungleWalla, Mega Water Sports, Ambong Pool Villas. See our full itinerary here

Expect plenty of sun, sand and sea on Terengganu’s unreal tropical idylls

An epic trip that takes you from the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula to its eastern tip
Total distance: 826km

The drive from Johor Bahru to Port Dickson is relatively short (just over three hours) but you can maximise your road trip by making stops along the way at towns such as Batu Pahat, Muar, Malacca and Seremban.

Malacca is best known for its delicious traditional food, but Seremban is no lightweight either. This underrated foodie haven is most famous for the Seremban siew pau, a flaky pastry bun with a meat filling.

From Seremban, it’s just 30 minutes to the resort town of Port Dickson, where you can feast on fresh seafood. When you’re ready to hit the road again, continue on to Kuala Lumpur on the North-South Highway before cutting across the interior of the country and taking the scenic B-roads that hug the eastern coastline all the way to Terengganu. Stop by the Lentang Forest Reserve, an hour from downtown KL, where you can cool off in one of the many natural pools. Alternatively, drive a little further on to the Sungai Pandan waterfall for a dip beneath the 100m-high cascading rapids, followed by a relaxing picnic lunch. When you get to Terengganu, find out more the city’s artistic heritage at the Terengganu Handicraft Centre or the Bazar Warisan (Heritage Bazaar). Terengganu is also the jumping off point for islands such as Redang and the Perhentian Islands.

Suggested stops along the way include: Angsana JB Mall, DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru, Somerset Medini Iskandar Puteri, D&F Boutique Hotel, AnCasa Residences, Port Dickson, AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Terengganu Golf Resort. See our full itinerary here

The coconut palm-fringed strip along Cherating Beach is a well-trodden spot among backpackers and surfers

A quick and easy getaway from the capital to the beaches along the eastern coast
Total distance: 294km

The journey from downtown KL to Kuantan takes just 2.5 hours if you drive nonstop but where’s the fun in that?

Your first refuelling stop should be Bentong – famous for its durians – to feast on the King of Fruits.

Do also schedule a visit to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, about 1.5 hours from KL, to witness the great work the sanctuary does in caring for young elephants that have been orphaned by poaching or logging. You can even help the mahouts give the elephants their bath.

After stopping in Kuantan for a hearty meal of nasi kukus (rice with spiced chicken) and curry noodles, it’ll take you less than an hour to reach the resort town of Cherating, where sun, sand and even a little surf await.

Suggested stops along the way include: Mountain Cat Durian, Ascott Sentral Kuala Lumpur, Oh Cha Matcha, Puteh Beach Bar, White & Black Cabin, MTree Hotel Puchong and The Kasturi. See our full itinerary here

Home to the Borneo’s highest peak, Kota Kinabalu is the gateway to Sabah’s most jaw-dropping natural landscapes

An adventure through the eco-tourism hub of Southeast Asia
Total distance: 332km

It’s a relatively easy drive from Sabah’s capital city, Kota Kinabalu, to its nearest town, Kundasang, but pay attention around the lower slopes of Mount Kinabalu as there are some sharp bends, and roads in Sabah can sometimes be bumpy.

About an hour out of Kota Kinabalu, make a stop at Upside Down House Sabah, a quirky tourist attraction where, you guessed it, a traditional house stands on its roof. After snapping some pictures, drive another hour or so to Kundasang. This is the highest settlement in Malaysia and just 6km from Kinabalu National Park, home to more than 4,500 species of plants and animals and of course, Mount Kinabalu, Borneo’s highest peak. Definitely schedule in some time to explore this amazing park.

From there, it’s a four-hour drive to Sandakan, on the northeast coast. Here, make a short detour to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to experience one of the twice-daily feeding sessions.

Suggested stops along the way include: Borneo Divers, Borneo Exotika, Teppanya, 50 Shades Bistro, Shangri-la Tanjung Aru and Hilton KK. See our full itinerary here

Feast your way through Malacca’s Unesco-listed cultural sights and mouthwatering street food

A carefree journey along the coastline with plenty of sun, sand and sea
Total distance: 365km

It’s just 215km from JB to Malacca, making for a breezy 2.5-hour drive with several interesting pitstops along the way.

The first should be Pekan Nanas, or Pineapple Town, just 30 minutes from JB, to pick up some juicy road snacks. From there, Batu Pahat and Muar both have plenty of old-time coffee shops where you can perk up with a cup of traditional kopi.

Forego the highway from Malacca to KL in favour of the old coastal roads. It will take you a few extra hours’ driving, but it’s a much more scenic and interesting drive.

After about 1.5 hours on Route 5, you’ll reach Port Dickson, where you can stay overnight at one of the many beach resorts. If you prefer something quieter, head to Carey Island, about an hour outside KL. Here you can learn about the ancient culture of the Mah Meri indigenous community before digging into a seafood feast at one of the town’s fantastic restaurants.

Suggested stops along the way include: AladdinTi Malaysia, San Shu Gong, DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka, Stone Nine, Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. See our full itinerary here

Malaysia Airlines partners with Redoxon to help keep passengers healthy

August 25, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with Redoxon

Frequent flyers know that long journeys carry the risk of falling sick. Whether it’s due to irregular sleep, unfamiliar food or just exposure to new microbes and allergens, it’s not unusual to arrive on holiday with a cold or flu.

Add to that the recent prevalence of Covid-19, and the need for maintaining a strong immune system is more critical than ever, especially for the elderly and folks with pre-existing health problems. Even among young and healthy individuals, recent research from the University of Pennsylvania indicates that Covid-19 may compromise immune cells that keep the body in fighting form.

Besides giving you additional ammunition against deadly diseases, having a strong immune system helps increase your quality of life by protecting you against common ailments such as coughs and colds. That’s why, in addition to getting enough sleep, eating well and exercising regularly, savvy travellers take vitamin supplements to keep them healthy while on holiday or work trips.

Malaysia Airlines collaborates with Redoxon, the world’s top brand for immunity support

Despite feeling cabin fever and missing the freedom of travelling, most of us remain fearful of the risks of contracting the coronavirus while on a plane or overseas. To provide a safer travel experience, Malaysia Airlines has partnered with Bayer-owned company Redoxon to distribute complimentary inflight samples of Redoxon Double Action to all passengers. This travel immunity booster comes on top of the complimentary hygiene kit – comprising a non-surgical face mask, a sachet of hand sanitizer and sanitary wipes – Malaysia Airlines is giving all passengers as part of its Fly Confidently campaign.

Containing Vitamin C and zinc, Redoxon Double Action works to strengthen the immune system and support one’s general health. Redoxon products also help protect you against weather changes, the health risks of being in crowded spaces, environmental pollutants and germs – all of which you’re more likely to be exposed to while travelling, particularly in high-traffic locations such as airports.

With Malaysia Airlines’ commitment to safeguarding the health of its passengers and ensuring a safe inflight experience (and the additional health boost courtesy of Redoxon), you can travel and fly without fear. What’s more, enjoy 10% off Redoxon products purchased through Bayer’s official store on Shopee, using the code BAYERED10. Capped at RM10 per transaction, this promotion is valid till March 31, 2021.

For more information on Redoxon’s catalogue of products, visit Bayer’s official store on Shopee here.

5 ethical brands in Malaysia that are giving back

August 21, 2020 by Going Places

In partnership with INCEIF

Biodegradable packaging, renewable energy and charitable partnerships are just some of the initiatives brands are adopting as more customers demand environmental and social responsibility for a more sustainable future.

But more than a way to appease socially responsible consumers, investing in such initiatives can be a smart move that allows companies to boost sales while protecting the planet and its people. Evidence of this is Nielsen’s 2015 Global Corporate Sustainability Report, which showed that 69% of Malaysian consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that come from ethical brands.

Even social enterprises can remain monetarily and morally sustainable with the right business know-how. Here are five brands in Malaysia that have turned socially-conscious business practices into good business, inspiring entrepreneurs that it’s as possible as it is necessary.

1. Muni

Industrial dyes, often mass-produced for fast fashion companies, are a known environmental hazard. Not only are they highly toxic and, in some cases, carcinogenic, they also end up creating wastewater that destroys marine life. To combat these environmental effects, entrepreneur Munir Osman started Muni, a Malaysian slow-fashion label that uses natural dyes made from tree bark and fruit skin.

Launched in October 2017, Muni boasts a catalogue of minimalist apparel and accessories, including its best-selling knot bags and waterproof canvas tote bags coated with beeswax. Each garment is handwoven, hand-dyed and air-dried in a studio the founder built out of reclaimed wood. Soapnuts are used as cleaning agents to ensure the entire process is organic and eco-friendly.

Blue tees and knot pouch peach by Muni — Photo: Muni

2. Yellow House

Yellow House is a non-profit enterprise run by Shyam Priah which organises voluntourism programmes, where travellers get to immerse themselves into the local culture by volunteering at animal shelters and Rohingya refugee schools in Malaysia. It also employs homeless individuals and trains them to conduct one-of-a-kind walking tours – known as Unseen Tours – around Kuala Lumpur. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Yellow House has refocused and turned to raising funds to distribute food to households that are financially affected by Covid-19.

3. EcoKnights

Founded in 2005 by biologist and environmentalist Yasmin Rasyid, EcoKnights is a non-profit organisation that collaborates with various brands to develop sustainable initiatives. In 2019 alone, this Malaysia-based social enterprise has cleaned three polluted rivers, planted 510 trees and collected about 10 tonnes of waste. EcoKnights has also launched online programmes such as KLEFFlix, the first online streaming service in Malaysia that spotlights films about sustainability and environmental issues.

4. The Hive

Established in 2015 by Claire Sancelot, who received a United Nations award for her work in sustainability, The Hive is a zero-waste store based in Kuala Lumpur that sells organic food in bulk. Besides protecting the environment by eliminating the use of packaging, The Hive also sources its food products (such as rice, beans, nuts, dried fruits and tea) from local farms and collaborates with ethical, local businesses to sell natural soaps, metal straws and other lifestyle goods. The brand has even launched a corporate consultancy arm to help other companies go green.

5. Ethis Ventures

Another Malaysia-based company, Ethis Ventures is an ethical crowdfunding platform that marries social responsibility with profit-making. With offices in Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta and Dubai, it specialises in raising funds for charitable projects and social enterprises, collaborating with major corporations who have committed to match public donations.

Set up in 2017, the relatively young company is the brainchild of EthisCrowd, an Islamic property investment firm. Among the campaigns it has successfully funded include a housing development project for lower-income families in Indonesia and an initiative to sponsor heart surgeries for children in Malaysia.

Want to be a social entrepreneur too? Good education is key

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur with a passion for social enterprises, consider an MBA in Sustainable Business from INCEIF (The Global University of Islamic Finance) to build a foundation of practical skills and values for effective eco-innovation.

Developed and fine-tuned by industry veterans, this newly unveiled MBA equips students with knowledge in business management, marketing, data analytics, Islamic finance and sustainability in management and investment. Students are primed to create business solutions that champion the values of inclusivity and integrity as well, learning how to be profitable while making a social impact.

To find out more about INCEIF’s newly launched MBA in Sustainable Business programme, click here.