Editors note

Greetings! We meet once again but this time we present to you a very special issue. In conjunction with our Fifth Anniversary, the cover of this issue features the creative photos and our valued readers. This is our way of thanking our readers who had been our pillar of strength all these years ever since its rst maiden issue in 2007. Thanks for the continuous support and words of encouragement from you all. Our Happenings magazine will continue and strive its best to provide entertainment to people of all walks of life in Sarawak as well as visitors to the state. Starting off as a magazine that focussed entirely on tourism, it is now becoming a reference magazine for information on places of interests, great food, entertainment, cultural references, corporate gures and local companies.

Editorial
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dato Patrick C.J. Liew MANAGING EDITOR Angelina Liew DESIGNERS Patsda Liew, Lee Kong Hui EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Bunan Bahas, David Chew, M Ong, Jonathan Soon ART OF PHOTOGRAPHY Edwin Lay, Kelvin Bong, Dr Wee Thian Yew PRINTER Bahagia Press Sdn Bhd Lot 224, Grd, 1st & 2nd Floor, Section 49, Jalan Padungan Utara 93100 Kuching, Sarawak.

Happenings is now more of a lifestyle magazine, and our team

will continue to improve on its content and layout so that it remains relevant to the aspirations and trends of the younger generations and for those young at heart. In this issue, you will find out also about Conquerors Vision Sdn Bhd latest web portal project , which is specially dedicated to reach out to youth, sharing information on sports, lifestyle, education, technical education, scholarship and job opportunities. We have assorted articles including interviews with prominent personalities and information on new trends and places. To sign off, a big THANK YOU for your support.

Dato Patrick C.J. Liew

Editor-in-Chief

Publisher

Happenings
Conquerors Vision Sdn Bhd Level 1, Lot 293 & 294, Jalan Haji Taha, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak. TEL & FAX 082-242 439 EMAIL conquerorsvision@yahoo.com, conquerorsb@gmail.com WEBSITE www.happeningsarawak.com

4, 5, 6, 7, 34, 35, 36, 37

Happenings

interview health

Happenings

19, 20, 21, 22, 27, 29, 41

Happenings

stay

focus home ideas inspiration event

8, 9, 10, 11,

23, 24, 25, 26

Happenings

For event listings

Event listing must include the name of the event, venue, website, short description, contact details, date, time and photographs. For enquiries, please contact the publisher. Happenings makes every effort to ensure that the information given is accurate at the time of publication. The publisher shall not be held liable for any omission, error or inaccuracy. No parts of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission.

Contents
Happenings

30
Happenings

12, 13
Happenings

youth scoop

32, 33
Happenings

14, 15, 16, 17, 18

46, 47
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Happenings

interview

Datuk Haji Hamden Ahmad

SPB Group Managing Director

There are a few other plans in the pipeline which the SPB will put in place soon for the better welfare of the existing Indonesian workers. Once successfully implemented, this will make the SPB as the preferred choice and enhance its image. With the cooperation of the Indonesian Consulate, we hope to materialise this in the near future.

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Giving Back
to Sarawak
In 2011, Sarawak Plantations Berhad (SPB), one
of the states pioneer players in the palm oil industry, achieved its best ever performance after registering prot before tax (PBT) of RM104.2 million. This was the rst time it surpassed the RM100 million mark ever since SPB was listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia on 28 August 2007. Yet despite the success, SPB has not waivered from its supporting role to supplement the governments efforts to develop the state. It has opened its own Oil Palm Training Centre as part of sustainable human capital development strategy to get more locals involved in the oil palm industry. Over the years, it has also implemented many corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects throughout Sarawak which have benetted the local communities and also the foreign workers in SPB estates. In this interview with Happenings, SPB Group Managing Director Datuk Haji Hamden Ahmad gave a clearer insight on the training centre and CSR projects, as well as sharing secret of successes of his journey into becoming a leading corporate leader. The training centre aims to provide our youths with the necessary skills needed to pursue a career in this industry. My advice to youths who want to work in the oil palm industry is that they must have the passion and keenness; otherwise it would be a waste of time, resources and money. To be honest, this industry is among the best career paths to be involved in at the moment. I said this because there will always be demand for edible oil. Malaysia produces about 17 million to 18 million tonnes of crude palm oil a year, not even enough to supply for Chinas needs.

Happenings: It is public knowledge that the oil palm

industry uses a lot of workers from Indonesia. Can you brief us on how SPB as a caring employer take care of these workers at the estates and what are steps taken to improve their welfare?

DATUK HAMDEN AHMAD:

As we all know, SPB, together with other players in the industry, depends heavily on foreign workers from Indonesia. Efforts have been ongoing to improve their income, welfares, facilities, quarters, and many more. Once a while, we organise a Sukan Rakyat (Sports Meet) and social gatherings for them, including one held on May 1 at Ladang Tiga in Miri, Hari Raya gathering and Hari Korban. We also organized a concert for them at our estates so that they have the time to relax and get together. This is important, because this will convince the parties concerned that SPB is a caring employer, and be attractive to other workers especially at this time when the labour market is very competitive.

Happenings: Datuk, can you elaborate more on

the SPBs Oil Palm Training Centre. When will it commence operation, and how will the states youths benefit from it?

DATUK HAMDEN AHMAD: The Oil Palm Training Centre

was realised following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Sarawak Plantation Agriculture Development (SPAD) Sdn Bhd with an Indonesia-based college, PT Citra Widya Educators (CWE) early this year. We tentatively target to launch the training centre in June, starting off as in-house training for our rst batch of 30 to 50 trainees whom are local staff from our estates. Once it is operating smoothly, we will apply license from Education Ministry to enable school leavers and interested individuals to join our courses.
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I would say that these CSR initiatives indirectly enhance our corporate image, and help us to maintain good relationship with the local communities. We are, so to speak, a company which cares for the people.
There are a few other plans in the pipeline which the SPB will put in place soon for the better welfare of the existing Indonesian workers. Once successfully implemented, this will make the SPB as the preferred choice and enhance its image. With the cooperation of the Indonesian Consulate, we hope to materialise this in the near future. Recently, I paid a courtesy call to the Consul of Indonesia in Kuching and discussed on this subject with him among other things.

Of course, we allocate certain budget for this purpose. We help various organisations, regardless of racial or religious background, as along as their requests for assistance benet the community at large and the assistance reach the target groups. We also assist the churches, longhouses, mosques and kampungs which are within or near our estates. We donate items during festive celebrations such as Gawai and Hari Raya to these longhouses and kampungs. To support re prevention campaign, we also sponsored re extinguishers to longhouses. When there is request for access road, we also assist in building roads for the better convenience of the people. Since 2010, we also donated vans to various mosque trustee bodies. So far, we have sponsored ve vans throughout Sarawak. We have also adopted Sarawak Taekwondo Association as our sports partner under our CSR initiative, since 2011. Our target is that more youngsters will pick up this sport not only to keep healthy but also to bring back honours for Sarawak in international and national meets. We might consider other sports partners in the future, depending on the situation. SPB donated RM200,000 to PERYATIM (Sarawak Orphanage Organisation) during a function in Bintulu this year. I am happy to say that we are the biggest contributor among plantation companies. I would say that these CSR initiatives indirectly enhance our corporate image, and help us to maintain good relationship with the local communities. We are, so to speak, a company which cares for the people.

Happenings: Datuk, both the print and electronic

media have reported on the many CSR activities implemented by SPB throughout Sarawak. Can you brief us on the focus and objectives of the CSR projects?

DATUK HAMDEN AHMAD :

SPB is a company owned by Sarawakians, and it is only right that we give some back to the people of Sarawak through our Corporate Social Responsibility activities.

2 3 1

CSR Activities
1. Wheelchairs for disabled members of PBPM 2. Sports Partner to Persatuan Taekwondo Negeri Sarawak 3. Assistance to the re victims at Pujut Corbet, Miri 4. Gotong Royong Rumah Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Miri 5. Donation of Electric Pressure Washer to Klinik Kesihatan Ladang Tiga, Miri 6. Donation of Hearse Vehicle to Lembaga Amanah Kebajikan Islam Selalang 7. Labour Day Celebration 8. Fire Extinguisher Demonstration & Emergency Procedures 4

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Happenings: Datuk, would you like to share with

our readers the secrets of your success, starting as an accountant, and then a politician, and now a corporate figure?

DATUK HAMDEN AHMAD :

You have to work if you want to succeed, and cannot wait for a silver platter. I am now almost 64 years old. I come from a small village but I work my way into graduating from London School of Accountancy, United Kingdom, and became the rst Bumiputera Chartered Accountant in Sarawak. In the early 1970s, I was an accountant with Lembaga Padi Beras Negara, Cawangan Sarawak (now known as Bernas),

In life, just like the Iban saying Agi Idup, Agi Ngelaban, one must be determined, resourceful, creative, never surrender. Your spirit and mind must be there.

before joining the Sarawak Land Development Board (SLDB the predecessor to SPB) in 1974 as internal auditor, and later as Chief Accountant, heading Account, Finance, Budget and Computer departments. I stayed on until 1982, after which I set up my own rm. I then joined a shipping company where I gain knowledge of the shipping sector. In 1986, after two years on the job training, I obtained remisier license from KLSE. In 1987, I was requested to join politics and I stood in the election. That gave me the chance to serve the people. I was also appointed as Assistant Minister of various portfolios and I learnt how the government worked. I came back to SPB as a Director following its public listing in 2007. I was then re-designated to Executive Director, and then to Group Managing Director on 29 March 2011. Being in SPB during its infancy stage gave me the advantage to nd ways to drive the company forward.

As someone whose background was from kampung, it has not been easy ride for me. You have to earn your own success. You must be positive, never give up in life, and believe there is always tomorrow. As for me, I will continue working as long as my condition permits. In life, just like the Iban saying Agi Idup, Agi Ngelaban, one must be determined, resourceful, creative, never surrender. Your spirit and mind must be there. Similarly, in the oil palm industry, a local youth can work his way up the career path once completed training. You may start as supervisor, and go up to manager level earning up to RM10,000 per month even. As you all know, the remuneration in the private sector is rewarding but you have to work hard to achieve it. There is no shortcut to success in this competitive market.

SARAWAK PLANTATION BERHAD

Registered Ofce 8th Floor, Wisma NAIM, 2 1/2 Mile, Rock Road, 93200 Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: 6082-233 550 Business Ofce Lot 1174, Block 9, MCLD Miri Waterfront, Jalan Permaisuri, 98000 Miri, Sarawak. Tel: 6085-413 814 Email: info@spbgroup.com.my www.spbgroup.com.my
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Happenings

health

SKY ABOVE ME, EARTH BELOW ME, FIRE WITHIN ME

I ts 4.30am. I groggily shut my alarm

off and went down to the kitchen to make a light breakfast. Rolled oats with a few chunks of banana complete with 2 soft boiled eggs. I took a quick cold shower and applied Vaseline over my toes to prevent those nasty little blisters from occurring. Pulling on my knee guard, I laced up my trainers and darted out of the door. I glanced at my watch, 4.53am. NO.. I am already late. I then turned on my runnin g a p p a n d h e a d o u t t o t h e rendezvous point where several of my training partners were all warmed up. Together, it was just 4 of us thudding our feet across the asphalt of the road in the dead of the night. People were born to run. The running trait is an essential entity in our genetic traits. 4 and a half million years ago, our ancestors ran to hunt to put food on the table (or to avoid being the food on some other animals table). Running began to evolve and it became a sport which is evident in many games. Be it in basketball, soccer, tennis, or even the basic marathon.
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We no longer run for food, we began to run for medals. Many have took up running for its endless health benefits. Doctors has scientifically proven that, combined with a healthy diet, a 4-day-a-week, 20-minutes run can do the following: | Staying in shape and zapping all those excess weight away | Preventing cardiovascular diseases | Boosting immune system | Maintaining healthy muscles and bones | Fighting insomnia Running is no longer exclusive for athletes. We now encounter students, senior citizens, pregnant mothers, professionals, obese teenagers and others running along the road covered in sweat. Despite the difference in age, sizes and background, there is one similarity that is noticeable in all of them - the sheer determination on their face. It is that look of will power which transformed them from a Tom, Dick and Harry to a sheer machine fueled by passion. Aside from the health benefits, running, especially distance running, trains both the mind and heart to endure. Running is made out of 20% strength, 20% techniques and 60% mentality. If there is a machine which can measure endurance, runners would actually be the top 1% percentile. Unlike most sports, running is a solitary sport. It is just the runner against the road. There isnt anyone to cheer them on, not a single soul to remind them not to loose their stride. The runners mind is the only friend (or at times, the enemy) to keep the legs moving. As ru n n e r s h i t t he r o a d , t h e y c r o s s i n t o a threshold of conditioning where pain and pleasure hovers over a thin line. They enter a zone where positive thinking becomes the main source of fuel. These thoughts drive a runner to move beyond the pain and start focusing on what is important instead. Through this brutal test of endurance, each fiber of the muscle, heart and mind turned to steel. A busted knee, a lupus condition nor being overweight will be able to penetrate that willpower to complete the run. Pain is no longer deemed as something to hinder the run. To runners, pain is weakness washing out of the pores like monsoon. It is fear melting away like wax of a candle. It is merely a reminder that they are still alive, and with every jolt of pain pulsing through their calves, they do not slow down but push their speed. It is at this point where the body will be screaming for them to stop, but it is the mind which says, Chill bro, you can do this. To avid runners, it isnt just a sport. It is a lifestyle. It is a lifestyle in making the harder decisions for the benefit of the future. It is to saying no to temptations such as pizza, ice creams, sleeping in because they know that the reward of running is worth more than the act of just giving in. After every run, runners rise anew from the ashes of their former self. Some of the medals from a run could not be placed on a shelf. Instead, it is the surge of endorphins in the body, the sense of achieving something beyond them, or the twinkle in their eyes matters more and those are worth every bit of sweat and blood. In truth, runners do not worry about the petty things in life. They do not have to worry about which outfit makes them look fat, or about picking the right colour to look good. Runners do not measure themselves in inches or pants sizes. Runners measure themselves in kilometers, degree of toughness and determination.

RUNNERS MANTRA HERES TO US.

Heres to ordering a salad when you really want a burger. To making a fool out of ourselves on the treadmill. To drinking more water than seems humanly possible. To working out twice as much as skinny strangers. To saying Goodbye to the old you. To falling in love with who you really are, the who you want to become. To looking in the mirror and not seeing any change, throwing on your shoes, and running anyway. To looking in the mirror and seeing major change. To those who believed and support us, and those who doesnt believed and support us. To say no to partying on Saturday nights, to sleep by 9pm, and waking up at 430am on public holidays. Heres to vaseline, and blisters, and sweaty t shirts, and perseverance, and sore muscles, and all things protein/carbo rich and fat-free, and stinky socks, and falling down, and getting back up, and bottled water. Heres to getting up every day and doing it all over again.
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Happenings

health

rated g e t n I g n i IRC) K ( e Kuch r t n e C al Recreation

re o m e r a e W N U F t s u j n tha S E M A G & u n it y th & Comm

s Our goal i

- For you

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Kuching Integrated Recreational Centre (KIRC)s sport

facilities and Sarawak largest 60ft x 80ft event stage/ playground were launched in 26th March 2011 & 27th May 2012 respectively and has since transformed the vicinity of Civic Centre into a recreational hot spot for young and old. The stage provides as another alternative entertainment venue for sarawak youth activities. Kuching Integrated Recreational Centre is managed by Sarawak Lawn Tennis Associations (SLTA), a Non-Government Organization dedicated to organize numerous healthy activities for the general public especially for our youth. Our mission is to promote cultural, musical performance and healthier lifestyle activities amongst the youth & all work of life. Currently, KIRC has twelve tennis courts, three futsal courts, two sepak takraw courts, two basketball courts, two volley ball, one badminton court and upcoming lighted mountain bike/jogging track to be added into current facilities.

For booking of event at KIRC, please email

For enquiries please call 6082-427 118 / 250 100

admin@ouryouth.my

www.itfsarawak.org.my
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Happenings

youth

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Vol.19

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Happenings

scoop
Coffee shops, or more commonly known as kopitiams,
are a common sight in the city of Kuching. It has been a lifestyle to the people here long before malls and complexes dominate the city. To many, kopitiams are the ideal place for meals, especially during breakfast. Most would just gobble a delicious bowl of kolo mee, washed it down with a delightful cup of coffee, and proceed to go their own ways. However, behind each bowl of kolo me e, each cup of coffee, lies a story. Not every story lies in a book. Sometimes, the best story can be found in the wrinkles of a lady behind the drinks station. Kopitiams have a rich heritage which is unknown to many. It all began when the Chinese starts migrating to Kuching in the 1930s. Due to the infamous Chinese Civil War, the country was plunged into a severe state of starvation, which affected the island of Hainan as well. They were all living off on sweet potato, and there wasnt any speck of rice. At that verge of starvation, despite of their love for their homeland, the Hainanese were forced to venture off to the horizons. One such individual was a man named Ong Hiap Kok. With his father already migrated to the island of Borneo, he was left to choose between staying in Hainan and starved or, to leave his beloved home. With only a shirt on his back (and another in his hands), he loaned some yuan to get a one way boat ride to Kuching.

Kopitiam

THE UNTOLD STORY

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One such individual was a man named Ong Hiap Kok. With his father already migrated to the island of Borneo, he was left to choose between staying in Hainan and starved or, to leave his beloved home. With only a shirt on his back (and another in his hands), he loaned some yuan to get a one way boat ride to Kuching. After a long treacherous journey which took 30 days, Ong finally reached the shores of Kuching. Embracing his father whom he has not seen in years, it took a while for him to adjust to the unfamiliarity of the foreign land. He began to observe the situation at the port. There were countless traders coming day in and day out, but there were only a handful of stalls around. Grabbing at that opportunity, he opened a small stall in 1936 along the streets of the Old Main Bazaar. It was a small set up. Operating from 9pm onwards, traders who were bringing in supplies such as coconuts, charcoals, shes and etc would stop by the stall to have a cup of coffee, some roti kahwin (sandwich bread with butter and coconut jam spread) and toasts. Business was great, but Ong had bigger plans. After 2 years of operation, he decided to relocate his stall to a more bustling environment. That stall was moved to Wayang Street, which was adjacent to Carpenter Street, and was known to be the commercial area among the Chinese Immigrants. Apart from that, he was able to operate his stall for longer hours, which was not permissible along the Old Main Bazaar. As early as 5am, his father and him would be roasting coffee and tending to the customers. This would go on throughout the day and even till late night where the stall would only close at 12am. Before long, the stall grew in popularity. Housewives would bake bite sized snacks (or more commonly known as Kuih-Muih in Malaysia) and placed them beside the stalls. Fruit and grocery vendors follow suit and this further fueled the consumers at that area. Soon enough, that small little stall became prominent entity along Wayang Street. The kopitiam developed into more than just a drinks stall. It became a sort of makeshift information centre for the immigrants. News with regards to their homeland and their current state were exchanged. Granted, as most immigrants at that point of time couldnt read or write,

they relied heavily on those who could. It is very common to see a person who could read slowly dictating the newspaper while being surrounded by dozens of other immigrants. In the 1930s, the only luxury item one would be able to possess was the radio. As it buzzes out news about the 2nd Sino-Japanese War which was invading China, many will be crowding and nodding to the information. Most of the immigrants have left their families back in China. From this, the stall became an avenue for them to pen letters with the help of the educate ones to be sent back to their homes. This was as much contact they could have with their loved ones. This continued on for many years till the shop was relocated in 1972 to a new settlement area which is now known as Kenyalang. Of course, during the Japanese occupation from 1942 - 1945, Ong had to close his stall and escaped to the village. There were intentions of moving back to his beloved Hainan. However, this proved to be too difcult when China adopted Communism and Ong was forced to stay in Kuching. It was a sad realization, but Ong realizes that life must go on. Further from the move, the stall expanded to a fully edged coffee shop. No longer hosting information exchange parties, it began to open its doors to other vendors such as the famous kolo mee and chicken rice. With more time on his hand, Ong decided to sell traditional handmade paus. As the yeast is left to be fermented for a period of more than 10 hours, the texture of the pau is much more compact and ne, with a mild sweet taste one can seldom nd in paus nowadays. Stuffed with meat stewed with all natural ingredients such as garlic and shallot, a bite into the soft succulent pau would be enough to convince that it is one of the most of the best pau in Kuching. Of course, coffee and toasts are still the main attributes of the store but Ong was generous enough to let others make a living at his shop. At present, Ong had long gone passed away, but he had denitely left a legacy in the kopitiam history in Kuching. One can easily nd Yong Kwang Kopitiam in Kenyalang Park, now managed by his great-grandchildren. It was not an easy life for Ong, but seeing how he helped shaped the kopitiams of Kuching, it was indeed worth every bit of sweat.

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Happenings

scoop
same time, they were also indulging in their breakfast - a bowl of kolo noodles with a bigger bowl of mixed soup (which I eventually discovered that it was called Zheng in their local dialect) and a cup of coffee in crockery cups which I thought had swamped into extinction. Curious, I sat down on a vacant table and gestured for the same breakfast set. After an agonizing 5 minutes, which seems more like an hour due to the enticing aroma of the noodles, my breakfast was served and I attacked it like a starved teenager. It was heavenly. The noodles were cooked to perfection. Not too soggy, yet not too parched as well. A dash of vinegar was splashed onto the noodles to tickle the buds and that makes me yearn for more. With a large bowl of Zheng topped with a variety of meant and their ingredients, you can practically hear the noodles and the soup yelling in harmony, Eat us! Eat us! However, it was the coffee which blew me away. A cup of aromatic black liquid so hot that I burnt my tongue with the very rst sip. That didnt stop me from taking another shot at it. I could literally taste the grounded roasted coffee beans making love to my taste buds. As I slowly let the coffee slither down my throat, it brings a sense of warmth which I have never experienced before. Amazed at the taste, I waited for the shop to clear. I couldnt just leave the shop without knowing the secret to this magic brew. I got myself another cup of the legendary joe and lingered around the shop. I just cant seem to get enough of it!

That Cup of Coffee

Coffee. An addiction to many. A repulse to some. No

doubt, the coffee sensation has taken over the world. Coffee joints are popping up like wild mushrooms after a storm, with companies like Starbucks, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaves, and others becoming a necessity to students, executives, housewives as they sip their caramel macchiato in their cute little plastic cups. I remembered in my university days, I needed a venti sized caf latte to start my day. Back then, it was just a drink. A pick-me-up whenever my eyelids felt like a 5kg dumbbell. Nothing more. However, it was during my backpacking trip through Borneo which forever altered the way I look at coffee again. I was going through one of the oldest streets in Kuching city, Ewe Hai Street, on a lazy Tuesday morning when I spied on a bustling coffee shop which seems to attract a lot of people. From the outside, there is nothing signicant about the kopitiam. The only thing I could remember was a sign which read Kim Joo. Despite the simple exterior, it was lled to the brim with old uncles with half buttoned shirts, impatient housewives who kept on asking their children to nish their food, and tourists like me being amused at the whole scene. At the
Vol.19

The bubbly uncle who seems to be the owner of the shop started to notice this strange man who refuses to leave, and from my appearance and demeanor, he must have reckon that I am not a local. I introduced myself and began to pester him on why does his coffee taste so much better than my all time favourite caf latte. Chuckling away, Mr. Lai Jit Lai, or better known as Uncle Lai, told me that it is just ordinary coffee. Perhaps, he mentioned, its because of the historical attributes of his kopitiam which makes the coffee so special. He got himself a cup of the coffee as well, and began to share a story which I could never forget. Kim Joo Kopitiam is in fact the oldest coffee shop on that street. He inherited it from his father, who in turn inherits it from his father. In fact, Uncle Lais grandfather was one of the pioneers of kopitiams in Kuching. Hailing from the island of Hainan in the Kwang Tung Province, with a backpack, several friends, and sheer determination, they set off to the distant land of Borneo in hopes of nding new hope.

[16]

It wasnt an easy life for them. In the dead of the night, they would have to rise from their slumber to start roasting the coffee beans. It will take approximately 5-6 hours to turn the mud coloured coffee beans to a blackish brown tone. And this was done through manual labour. Sweating from the blaze of burning rewood and coal, they silently spin the handle of the makeshift pot so that each and every single bean is roasted to perfection. The roasted beans were then poured out onto a big metal pan. High quality butter, sugar and salt were then added. As the butter comes in contact with the burning beans, it melts immediately and seeps into each pores of the coffee beans. At this point, a gulf of sweet smelling buttery roasted coffee surrounds the whole shop, strong enough to awaken their children to get ready for school. The coffee beans were then left to cool and a portion of them was transferred to a grinder, where it is being crushed and smothered to a powdery form. The rest of the beans were safely kept in a tin for the next batch of coffee. Scalding hot water is poured onto the powder. The brew is vigorously stirred and sieved through a strainer. With the thick black concoction dripping into the crockery cup, the matching saucer is placed under the cup to avoid spillage. And this was how each cup of coffee was made. The tradition was passed down to the son, which in turn passed it on to his son, Uncle Lai.

I stared at my almost empty cup. I never knew that a simple cup of coffee would take so long to prepare. And it was at this point when I looked carefully at Uncle Lais facial features. Despite his jolly disposition, I could clearly see the smile lines, the tired eyes and ne wrinkle crossing over his brow. The hours of preparation must have taken a toll on him, and the fact that he is able to sit down with me and cheerfully shared this story, it was truly unbelievable. As I said my goodbyes to Uncle Lai, I left the kopitiam as a new individual. How many times have I complained about staying up late to nish my work, and this man here had to wake up before the break of dawn for the majority of his livelihood. Never have I imagined that a cup of coffee would force me to look at my life in a different light. It has been many months since I set foot in a kopitiam. But if I did, it will never be the same again. To some, coffee may be an addiction. Some may repulse it. And some may drink it from cute little plastic cups. For me, coffee will always be a reminder to look beyond my struggles. There are many others who have to endure much more than I, yet still managed nd time for others with a genuine smile. Thank you, Uncle Lai.

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www.fusiongrill.com.my

With its culinary fusion approach of East meets West set amidst a comfortable setting, Fusion Grill Restaurant has carved out a niche for itself serving mouthwatering dishes infused with a touch of Korean cuisine thats guaranteed to whet ones appetite. This time, the year-old restaurant has whipped up three tasty dine-in fares that are wholesome and hearty, at prices that are also easy on the wallet. Among the new offerings is the Philippines Deep-Fried Pork Knuckle, where the knuckles have been deep-fried until crisp and golden brown. Priced at an affordable RM45, this popular dish from the Philippines, which is enough to serve a party of four, comes served with its condiments of spicy sweet sauce as well as sides of mixed green salad and French fries. Apart from that, meat lovers can also get their pork x with the Barbecue Pork Ribs with delicious sweet, sour and smoky BBQ sauce at only RM51. Perfect for diners of three, the large serving is accompanied by some mixed green salad, French fries and the restaurants specialty dish of Tteokbokki, a spicy Korean stew comprising Korean rice cakes, sh cakes cooked in a spicy gochujang (hot pepper paste) sauce. For those who want to try something lighter, theres the Grilled Mackerel served with the traditional fermented Korean vegetable dish of kimchi and spicy soy sauce with birds eye chilli. Ideal for two, this comforting dish, which is priced at only RM30, is served with some piping-hot rice as well as kimchi soup.

A fusion of flavours
Deep-Fried Pork Knuckle Grilled Mackerel

These gastronomic trio of fusion avours will be available from now until September 1 and is only valid every Friday, Saturday and public holidays. Meanwhile, diners can still expect the best of Korean cuisine with the restaurants Zaigle Fusion Grill, a sensational platter comprising juicy combination of samgyeopsal (three-layered pork belly), beef kalbi, lamb cutlets and German sausages. Perfect for diners of three to four for the medium serving and served with rellable banchan (side dishes), samjang (soy bean paste) and lettuce, the meaty selection, which has been basted in Korean rice wine (Soju) chum-chu-rum, is then grilled to ones preference over an infrared portable grill. Whats interesting about this powerful grill, imported all the way from Korea, is its smoke-free feature when the sausage or meat are being grilled, while diners can rest assure that while waiting for their sizzling meats to be cooked, they will not get splattered. Fusion Grill is denitely a restaurant worth visiting as it takes pride in serving well-prepared and delicious food while giving diners a memorable dining experience for all the right reasons. Needless to say, Fusion Grill is certainly a restaurant to consider the next time you want to treat someone to a good dinner but do remember to make reservations to avoid disappointment. Ground Floor, Lot 7691, Block 15, Brighton Square, Jalan Song, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: 6082-285 882 Operating hours: Tuesday - Thursday & Sunday (11am - 10pm) Friday & Saturday (11am - 11pm), Closed on Monday

BBQ Pork Ribs

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Fusiongrill Restaurant

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Happenings

stay

What if I tell you, there is a hotel designed specically

for professionals like you. Located right at the heart of the city, with unbelievable affordable room rates, Harbour View Hotel has always been sought after by travelers who want nothing more than uncompromised comfort at a reasonable rate.

THE BUSINESSMANS

REFUGE

Known as the Frontier of Kuchings Golden Triangle, the 243-rooms sanctuary is one of the few premium business class hotels strategically located at the Golden Triangle of Kuching. With 3 shopping malls at walking distance, you do not have to go through the hassle of hailing for a cab. Convenience is just at your doorstep. In business, the value of time is of the utmost importance and you would not want to spend some of it waiting for your ride. With a combination of affordable room rates and being situated at a prime location, it is of no surprise that Harbour View Hotel attracts both professional associates and vacation seekers. By recognizing the demand for banquets, conferences and events, Harbour View Hotel has an array of versatile function rooms which caters for any occasions. The main banquet hall, fondly named the Bukit Tebu Ballroom, can accommodate up to 500 guests. To better enhance your meeting and banquet needs, the halls are equipped with the latest audio-visual systems and broadband facilities. Rest is essential after a long day spent at a meeting, and this is especially true if you are travelling. With newly refurbished rooms and brand new anti-dust/mite mattresses, it is nothing less of pure bliss to snooze those aching muscles away. Equipped with contemporary facilities such as free Wi-Fi, a 32-inch at screen LCD television with satellite channels, direct dial telephones and others, the best experience of all would be waking up to the panoramic view of the Sarawak River meeting the shores of the city itself. Being in Kuching for business or conferences does not mean you are not entitled for a short vacation. With the citys Waterfront stretch a few steps away, it is highly recommended
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to take a stroll through the boulevard especially during sunset. With a gentle breeze blowing into your hair, the sound of soft waves lapping in the river and the sight of amber orange rays streaking through the ashy blue sky at dusk, many have claimed that taking a stroll during sunset actually helps in the destressing process. Right opposite the stretch is the Main Bazaar where you may obtain souvenirs and heritage items for your dear ones at home. Apart from the Waterfront, Harbour View Hotel is also surrounded by historical architectures dating back to the Brooke Dynasty, The Tua Pek Kong Temple which is one of the oldest Chinese temple in the city, the Chinese History Museum, St Thomas Cathedral which was erected in 1857, and etc. Being in the city centre also means that you can have access to many local delicacies without much hassle. Inexpensive dishes such as the Famous Kolo Mee, Sarawak Laksa and Mee Jawa is only a few blocks away. Of course, you can also head on to Caf Harapan Restaurant which is located at the lobby for international cuisines and local delights as well. There is also the Zodiac Karaoke Lounge for those who fancy a drink or two while singing their hearts out. Location is indeed everything one requires for when travelling for business. Again, with its unbelievable affordable room rates and prime location, Harbour View Hotel is truly the Frontier of Kuchings Golden Triangle and your top choice of accommodation in Kuching.

[20]

Location is EVERYTHING!

HARBOUR VIEW HOTEL

Lorong Temple, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak P.O. Box A1368, 93824 Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: 6082-274 666 Fax: 6082-274 777 Email: hotel@harbourview.com.my, sales@harbourview.com.my, reservation@harbourview.com.my

www.facebook.com/pages/Harbour-View-Hotel-Kuching/122128464565398

Happenings

focus

Lela

THE MYSTERY LADY

at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

Lela, the Mystery Lady at The

Kiding is Lelas new born baby. In memory of the late keeper Hillary Kiding Jugah, who passed away while in service at Matang Wildlife Centre, the new baby Orangutan is named after the Late Hilllary Kiding. The late Hillary has contributed for the conservation of wildlife and he was fondly remembered for having a special traits and skill in handling orangutans. Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, was surrendered to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre after she was conscated from Tebedu Market. Lela was born in 1981 and she was included in the centres active rehabilitation program along with many other orangutans who have since been released.

appearance at feeding platform as she endeavours to embrace her life in the wild. Recently, Lela gave birth to her 4th baby orangutan and the baby orangutan is named Kiding. Kiding adds another feather to SARAWAK FORESTRYs cap in its rehabilitation activities at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre. The Centre was established back in 1975 to care for wild animals which have either been found injured in the forest, orphaned, or were previously kept as illegal pets. It is situated within the boundaries of the Semenggoh Nature Reserve, approximately 24 km from Kuching. Currently, there are 27 orangutans at the Centre. Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, managed by SARAWAK FORESTRY, has become a successful centre for rehabilitation of orangutans in Sarawak. Many orangutans have been successfully reintroduced into the surrounding forest reserve through its rehabilitation program. It has also become a centre for the study of orangutan biology and behaviour, as well as a safe and natural haven for dozens of semi-wild orangutans, born in the wild to rehabilitated mothers. A visit to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre is a once in a lifetime experience - a chance to see semi-wild orangutans, ranging from tiny infants to boisterous adolescents to dignied mature adults, enjoying life in a secure natural habitat. If you are interested in the conservation program at SARAWAK FORESTRY, please email your interest to info@sarawakforestry.com or visit their website at www.sarawakforestry.com.
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Lela is a good friend of most of the wild orangutans who are deep in the forest and she is difcult to trace as she hardly visits the Centre. This however, is a positive sign in terms of the rehabilitation process, as Lela has indicated that she is completely at home in the semi-wild habitat, and is capable of surviving independently. This is the ultimate goal for the rangers in Semenggoh Wildlife Centre as they strive to reintroduce these orangutans to their natural habitats and to reduce their dependency on human as much as possible. Despite her infrequent sightings, the ever-resourceful rangers have their ways of monitoring her progress and making sure that she is safe from harm. Visitors can consider themselves lucky if they spot her when she makes a rare

[23]

Happenings

WIND CAVE
NATURE RESERVE

focus

www.sarawakforestry.com
The Wind Cave Nature Reserve is part of the Bau Formation, a narrow belt of limestone covering about 150 sq km of
Southwest Sarawak. Due to the comparatively soft and soluble nature of limestone, and the intense tropical rainfall of the region, the whole of the Bau Formation is intersected with caves. Whilst many caves of the Bau Formation are remote and inaccessible, the Wind Cave is within easy reach of Kuching and is a popular day trip and picnic destination. The Wind Cave Nature Reserve covers 6.16 hectares and includes the cave itself and the surrounding forest.

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[24]

Squirrels, shrews and a variety of birds can be found along the river and the limestone hill. Black nest swiftlets can be seen and heard inside the cave, as well as 14 species of bat. Twelve distinct species of snail have also evolved in the caves and the covering hill, each unique to its own limestone habitat.

EXPLORING THE CAVE

The Wind Cave is believed to have got its name from the cooling breeze blowing continuously through the cave. It a smooth, tubular limestone cave formed during the Jurrassic-Cretaceous period, roughly 60 million years ago. Excavations by early explorers such as Beccari in 1865 have shown that the Wind Cave was inhabited until recent times. Earthenware vessels, charcoal and pieces of marine and freshwater shells were found. The deep pits within the cave may have been made by gold prospectors in the 1930s. A 1000-metre plankwalk runs throughout the length of the cave, so it is easy and safe to explore, although the interior of the cave is unlit and therefore a ashlight is essential. A small stream meanders through the cave and joins the Sungai Sarawak Kanan at the northern end. The main cave passages are wide with at roofs, while the smaller passages form an irregular network in the northern section of the cave.

FLORA AND FAUNA

The Wind Caves has been gazetted as a nature reserve not just to protect the cave and its inhabitants, but also to conserve a number or rare species in the surrounding limestone forest. Amongst the small to medium sized trees and shrubs are some very rare palms, including Arenga pinnata (called Inyok in the local Bidayuh language), Arenga undulatifolia (Opip in Bidayuh) and the gigantic Calamus ornatus (Wi jelayan in Bidayuh).
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A nominal entry fee is charged for visitors to the Wind Cave Nature Reserve. Please check with the National Parks Booking Ofce in Kuching or the Sarawak Forestry website for the latest fee structure.

RESERVATIONS & ENQUIRIES

The Wind Caves main features include stalagmites, stalactites and pillars, which form when these two join together. Other features include conical cavities separated by blade-like pinnacles of limestone, limestone pendants hanging from the roof of the cave passage, and current scallops which have a honeycomb appearance and indicate the direction of the water ow. Throughout the length of the cave, the high-pitched squeaking of thousands of bats can be heard, including a number of insect-eating species, as well as a large population of Dusky Fruit Bats. There are also thousands of Black Nest Swiftlets nesting in the cave, and their nests, made almost entirely from the swiftlets glutinous saliva, can be seen adhering to the nooks and crannies of the upper cave wall. At the end of the cave passage, the plankwalk emerges onto the hillside and a path leads down to the bank of the Sungai Sarawak Kanan, one of the two major tributaries of the Sarawak River. There is a narrow sandy beach along the river bank, with public changing rooms, so this is the perfect place to swim and cool off after visiting the cave. There is also a picnic area and some stalls selling snacks and drinks. National Parks Booking Ofce, Visitors Information Centre, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching Sarawak, Tel: 6082-248 088 Fax: 6082-248 087 Online booking: http://ebooking.com.my

The Visitors Information Centre is located in the Old Courthouse Complex at the junction of Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Jalan Gambier and Main Bazaar, opposite the Kuching Waterfront.

OPENING HOURS
National Parks Booking Ofce Monday - Friday: 0800 hrs - 1700 hrs Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed

GETTING THERE
The Wind Cave Nature Reserve is 48km from Kuching and 5km from Bau town, or about 45 minutes drive from Kuching City Centre. Sarawak Transport Company bus No. 2 (from the Gambier Road Bus Terminal) travels to Bau hourly from 6am to 6pm. From Bau bus terminal you can board bus No. 3A that plies along Bau-Bidi Road hourly from 6am-6.30pm - ask the driver to let you off at the Wind Cave junction, from where it is 10-15 minutes walk to the Nature Reserve. Alternatively, a number of Kuching tour operators offer tours to the Wind Cave, often combining it with other attractions in the area.

SARAWAK FORESTRY

Lot 218, KCLD, Jalan Tapang, Kota Sentosa, 93250 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: +6082-610 088 Fax: +6082-610 099 Toll free line: 1 800 88 2526 Email: info@sarawakforestry.com Website: www.sarawakforestry.com Wind Cave Nature Reserve Tel: +6082-765 490

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[26]

Ideally located in the Kuching city centre and minutes away from Chinatown Padungan area and shopping malls, this non-smoking boutique hotel offers 50 rooms and suites equipped with free wi- internet access throughout the hotel, complimentary breakfast, in-built universal sockets, LCD TVs, plush bedding and rain-showers - all for the comfort of sophisticated travellers today. Discover the Zest!

Free Wi-Fi Smoke-free Hotel

www.limetreehotel.com.my

Visit our website for the latest room and dining offers!

MEETINGS & EVENTS | We offer a cost-effective solution for your organization to conduct corporate functions and private parties over breathtaking views at our rooftop. Please call our Sales Team at 082-414 600 or email us at info@limetreehotel.com.my for more details.

day k e e W u nch L rom Set e rf

off RM

9++

ROOMS & SUITES | Room rates from RM130++ for two inclusive of complimentary breakfast and free wi-

LimeLight Rooftop Lounge

THE LIMETREE HOTEL

Lot 317, Abell Road, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: 6082-414 600 Fax: 6082-424 600

TAG System PRINTING

LOYALTY CARD
SOLUTIONS PROVIDER

www.tagprint.com.my
TAG PRINTING System provides the full functionality required to effectively deliver the speed and sophistication that you are looking for in a loyalty technology provider. Loyalty Cards have become a part of modern human lifestyle. Everyone carries different brands of Loyalty cards in his or her wallet or purse. Most people have more than one card to satisfy their advanced or basic spending needs. No wonder, smart companies are realizing this growing trend and creating an opportunity to create awareness of their service portfolio via Loyalty Cards program. Research proved that it cost 8 times more to acquire a new customer than to retain the existing ones. Loyalty creates a bond that makes your company the rst choice in the hearts and minds of your customers. Creating this relationship requires a complete understanding of your customers and what drives their behavior. TAG PRINTING provides the tools to build that marketing database and then

identify, track, reward, communicate to and develop loyal customers using data collected from the system. varieties of customers preference at lowest possible cost and at highest possible yield and ROI. We offer in-depth consultation providing insight and knowledge to help clients choose the best deal of products t-for-purpose.

TAG PRINTING offers tailor-made Loyalty Membership System to suit all

TAG PRINTING presents complete product offerings encompasses tailor-

made Loyalty Membership System, customized Loyalty Card Solutions, Member Card Printer for Membership Cards personalization, hardwares of various types ( readers and writers), Loyalty Plastic Cards, Smart Cards, RFID Smart Cards nished with high quality printing - all under one roof.
Loyalty Program creates loyal customers, retains your existing customers, brings back lapsed customers and encourages spending. Rewarding customers and nding new customers is critical to the success of your business.

EASY TAG SDN. BHD.

Headquarters Level 1, Lot 293 & 294, Jalan Haji Taha, 93400 Kuching Sarawak, Malaysia Tel: 6082-250 378 Fax: 6082-242 439 Email: patsda@tagprint.com.my Sales Ofce (Malaysia) 15, Jalan Segambut, 57000 Sungai Nasi, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Phone: 603-6148 3288 Fax: 603-6148 3288 Email: eric@tagprint.com.my Sales Ofce (Indonesia) Jl. Layer Permai 7 No.16, Komplek Layar Mediterania, Pantai Indah Kapuk-Jakut 14450 Indonesia Phone: (+2)1 91478168 Email: sales@tagprint.com.my

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Happenings

home ideas

Natcell Thermal & Acoustic Insulation

The ultimate Green Technology (Environmentally Friendly Thermal & Acoustic Solution Fire Prevention)
Natcell Insulation core expertise is in solutions against heat,
humidity, sound, re, electricity bill, rats, termite and improve health. Designed and produced in Australia, it is the result of years of intense and high-tech research and development, making it the best insulation product for the world. Using the latest technology, this unique blend of Multi-Density paper bre has proven itself to be a wonderful 3 in 1 product capable of heat reduction, sound reduction and re resistant. Natcell is also a pest and mould resistant. It also certied health-safe product by the Australian authorities and environmental friendly. Applying Natcell on surface such as the ceiling (in the attic) will keep out the heat while retaining the cool air inside your home or ofce for greater comfort. It has been reported to reduce room temperatures by 3-5 degrees Celsius WITHOUT the use of any air-conditioning units on a very hot day, subsequently getting more than 50% energy savings from the reduced usage of air-conditioning units. Heat is transferred by conduction. When the roof is heated up, it conducts heat from roof attic to indoor living areas, this makes your home, office and building hot and uncomfortable. To counter this heat, you install air-conditioning units. But as the heat continuously conduct from roof attic, your air-conditioners need to use more energy to ensure the room is kept cool constantly. Your roof and ceiling will continue to conduct heat unless you insulate it with another material of low thermal conductivity. As Natcell is a poor conductor of heat, it works wonderfully in reducing heat from being conducted to your homes. Every year, scores of building get razed to the ground by accidental re. From your dream home to your neighborhoods house and from longhouses in the interiors to high rises in the city centres, protect your home from the ames that will reduce it all to a pile of smoldering ash. Natcell becomes re resistant when treated with re retardants. It has zero spread of ame index, the best possible rating for any re resistant product (approved by Jabatan Perkhidmatan Bomba Malaysia). Those who have been plagued and stressed out by noise will nd Natcell to be their perfect solution. In the acoutic application, our Acoustic Consultant will assess the environment and tailor t a solution to your problems. Not only will this product inhibit outdoor sound from streaming into your room, it also helps to reduce echo in a hall or room. Cineplexes, churches, and halls have seen the amazing reduction in echo after the introduction and application of Natcell into their walls.
Before After

Tested by SIRIM (Malaysia) and certied with ISO 8990

Thermal R value of 4.59=125mm & 3.31=9mm

Acoustic Report of Alpha 1.0 @ 3173 Mhz

Installation works

Fire test

Roof Restoration Works

Other specialized services: New Roong System Roof Protective Coating Multiple Waterproong Heavy Duty Flooring & Protective Coating Wall Protective And Texture Coating Thermal Insulation (Glass & Surface Coating) Acoustic Insulation (Cellulose Fibre) Chemical Resistant, Anti-bacterial & Polyurea Coating Machine Plastering / Skim Coating Building Cleaning

ECOGREEN BUILDERS SDN BHD

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2nd Floor, Sublot 11, Premier 101, Jalan Tun Jugah, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: 6082-573 735 Fax: 6082-570 375 Email: info@egbsb.com.my

[30]

Happenings

inspiration

G PLF Ventures Square Inc. is offering an opportunity for public to

register as a member in its GLOBAL PEACE LOVING FAMILY (GPLF) membership program throughout the world. With a combined asset of 40 billion, the Athens-based organization, registered in Hong Kong, is able to aid its members in elevating their family economy. According to Datuk Hazizi Ikwan, Chief Executive Officer of the said organization, GPLF is a non-profitable entity which strives in assisting the global community. He also mentioned that, GPLF is driven by 5 objectives (or main concepts), which are to: Be compassionate towards fellow man and other beings Preserve the global environment for a better quality of life Imbue the practice of wisdom (hikmah) and benevolence in daily life Strengthen and stabilize the family economy towards a better healthy and fulfilling way of life Live together in global unity, peace and harmony

GPLF is not directly involved in sales or investment. However, the capital and asset generated from other subsequent projects, such as real estate, plantation and infrastructure projects, are channeled to the welfare of its members and the surrounding community. This wasThrough this, GPLF does not only allow members to be involved in its projects, but also allow them to be at liberty in using the organizations funds. This will consequently help them in enhancing and stabilizing their family economy. This was shared by the CEO of GPLF in an interview conducted at GPLF Ventures Square Inc.s Office located at 2nd Floor, Jalan Haji Taha yesterday. Datuk Hazizi added that GPLF currently has a standing of more than 5,500 members from Malaysia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Australia, Oman and other regions of the world. Apart from that, he also mentioned that the organization is actively recruiting individuals in hopes to increase their members to a 20 million strong worldwide. This number would then be garnered as a solid voice for peace which shall be echoed throughout the global community. In order for the dream to be materialized, GPLF has made plans to increase its operations in Singapore, the Philippines, Brunei, Thailand, Taiwan, China, Indonesia, Vietnam and other prominent countries. As for Malaysia, GPLF is operating in 4 locations which are Kuching, Sibu, Miri and Kota Kinabalu and would soon be operating at Bintulu, Kapit, Mukah, Tg Manis and Tawau and Bintulu in the near future.
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GPLF VENTURES SQUARE INC.

(BVI CO. 1619705)

Three Pacic Place, Level 3, 1 Queens Road East, Admiralty, Hong Kong RL: +(852) 2855 6888 DL: +(852) 2588 3537 Fax: +(852) 2588 3499

GPLF Kuala Lumpur

P.O. Box Suite 306 & 307, MBE KL Sentral, Unit 8A, Level 2, Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur, 50470 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: +6017-342 5755, +6019-319 3866, +6012-204 2785

GPLF Kuching

Lot 286, 2nd Flr, Jalan Haji Taha, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: +6082-236 097 Email: gplfkch@gmail.com

GPLF Sibu

No.47, 1st Flr, Lrg Pahlawan 9, Jalan Pahlawan, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak. Tel: +6084-215 374 Email: gplfsibu@gmail.com

GPLF Miri

1st Flr, Lot 808, Bintang Commercial Centre, Jalan Bintang, 98000 Miri, Sarawak. Tel: +6085-414 686 Email: gplfmiri@gmail.com

GPLF Kota Kinabalu

Lot 25-1, 1st Flr, Towering Flr, Koidupan Perdana, Jalan Penampang, 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Tel: +6088-729 718 Email: gplfkk@gmail.com

[32]

Towards nancial freedom, a healthier and more fullling way of life, whilst sustaining global unity, peace and harmony
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[33]

Happenings

interview

Voice of

the remnant is a four-member band discovered and engineered by

Martin Tang, a multiple award-winning arranger and producer who is also the current music director of Taiwanese diva Ameis world concert tour. After participating in various TV shows in Taiwan for nine months, the remnant who will be based in Malaysia, is now back to release their rst full album entitled Love. No exception. The album Love. No exception is also produced and arranged by Martin Tang with some songs featured in a Taiwanese TV series. The album emphasizes on positive values of love towards people around us as well as the world in general. Apart from being in the band, the four talented young men are also capable professionals in their own right, with a positive image setting good example to young people: Jaydon Danny Ben Daniel - band leader and bassist, full-time musician and arranger for international artistes. - vocalist, song-writer and acoustic guitarist, an architect by training. - backup vocalist and electric guitarist, an IT programmer. - drummer, is also a national award-winning interior designer.

WHAT TYPE OF BAND ARE YOU?

Jaydon > I would say we are more to an indie pop band which also include some music elements of Sarawak.

WHO ARE YOUR MUSICAL OR NON-MUSICAL INFLUENCES?

Jaydon > We love music, I think any kind of good music will inuence us..Lol Besides contemporary, I personally enjoy listening to soundtrack, gospel, jazz. there are too many big names to be named ;)

WHAT ARE YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Jaydon > Music is a precious gift from God, I hope we can continue to enjoy making music, being it famous or not. Most importantly, we hope through our music we can touch as many as we can ;) Ben > To be the outstanding band and also plays the most inuential music to inuence the youth to have positive mindset and love towards family, parents, friends, couple and so on. Danny > To be a great band in Asia. Not only people love our music but also like our personality in our daily life.
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Ben

[34]

WHAT INSPIRE YOU TO DO WHAT YOU DO?

Jaydon > Christianity.its where I started to know how bass sounds like..Lol.. Our church and pastor is where and how we managed to start playing together as a band. Danny > My pastor, Lim Gee Tiong. He really set a good example to us no matter in music line nor in daily life. Because of his inuence, I started to learn to write songs.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR FANS?

Jaydon > Everyone of you are just so special and unique, theres a special purpose only for you, never judge yourself down. Ben > Support and raise up the local music band and support original CD album. Danny > Everybody need a dream in life. So lets dream high and never give up, and one day your future will not be just a dream!

WHATS THE BIGGEST REWARD?

Jaydon > When you enjoy listening to our song ;) Danny > People get touched by our songs.

Danny

Jaydon

Daniel
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[35]

to it!
Theres an old saying that you cant clap with one hand and for musicians Jack, Rambo, Edwin and Leslie, the name was perfect for their band for it meant that they would stay united with one another regardless of what happens until the end of time. Since they were formed in 1999, the band has stayed true to their philosophy of sticking together through the good and bad times. For the past 13 years, they have achieved quite a number of accolades ranging from being nominated for the Malaysia Entertainment Association Award in 2008 for Best Group as well as the golden opportunity to perform all the way in Taiwan.

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[36]

Happenings

interview

Happenings has a quick one-on-one chat with the band on their

musical aspirations and more.

WHAT TYPE OF BAND ARE YOU?

is a band that mostly plays indie rock music. We have Jack, who is the lead singer and guitarist, then Rambo who plays the lead guitar while Edwin takes overs the bass and Leslie, who is the drummer of the band.

In terms of what goals hope to accomplish, well, it is always our hope that we always aim to release more albums in the future. Since the band was form, we have release two demo EP and two albums which we are very proud of for they are the result of our blood, sweat and tears. WHAT INSPIRE YOU TO DO WHAT YOU DO? Thats a good question. What inspired us to form a band together is very simple. Music has always been part of our lives and because the four of us breathe, eat and love music, it inspired us to do more and hopefully touch the hearts of the people out there. WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST REWARD FOR THE BAND? The biggest reward for the band would be that even though its been more than a decade since we formed together in 1999, I can safely say that we are very much still the same people. Thirteen years has passed but the four of us remain as close knit as ever and thats not something you often see in bands these days. So yeah, you could say that that is our biggest reward. ANY ADVICE FOR YOUR FANS OUT THERE? Well, it doesnt matter whether your dreams is to become a musician or to start your business, no matter what remember that nothing is impossible. Do what you want to do and initially, you might nd that theres no road ahead or you nd yourself faced with obstacles along the wayjust remember that all it takes is that rst step and that will be the road to guide you along. Reach for the stars!
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WHO ARE YOUR MUSICAL OR NON-MUSICAL INFLUENCES?

When it comes to musical inuence, rock bands such as Simple Plan, Green Day and even revolutionary Hong Kong band from the mid-eighties like Beyond have been our greatest inuence simply because they have made rock music popular, creating quick an impression on rock music when it had never been popular in the music industry then. In my opinion, they have really made a difference in the music world of rock today. As for non-musical inuences, theres nothing like the support from our parents who have been very supporting towards our passion for music and frm the bottom of our hearts, we really appreciate their encouraging support throughout the years.

WHAT ARE YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS?

Our dreams have remained the same since we formed the band and till this day, all we want to do is to be able to play music until we are old. That has always been our dream and we will continue playing our music as long as we can pick up our music instruments and start playing our tunes.

[37]

Its all new

on Kuching!
Coming back from school and driving home from
work will never be the same again! The listeners have spoken so hitz.fm Kuching is introducing a brand new show with Meng and Natasha on-air together on the hitz.fm Kuching Drive Thru. Happening every weekday from 4pm to 8pm, catch the duo in the evenings for your dose of the biggest hits and some crazy banter. Having been on-air for almost a year now, Mengs quirky attitude has been the highlight of his shows, amusing listeners in the mornings by means of waxing his armpit hair and shaving heads on-air! The baton continues with Natasha, entertaining listeners with the latest goss and FB-ing her life on her page. Seriously pairing them up? Yes, seriously! With such conicting characters, it is going to be such an interesting drive experience for everyone. So you think Mengs overcondent behaviour would overshadow Natashas sweet, charming qualities? Or Mengs corny jokes shot down by Natashas sophisticated humour? He likes Rocky Road - Marshmallows, Walnuts and Fudge combined, whilst she likes the ol Chocolate Mint. Huh? Well, its a battle-of-the-sexes shake up and a rst on hitz.fm Kuching. Judge yourself.

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[38]

Look out for the

brand new voice on Kuching!

Introducing hitz.fm Kuchings latest edition, Kiyoshi! A mixed breed of Japanese, Chinese and Malay, this
charmer with the One Direction flop of hair has a lot to offer. His gift of the gab and passion for music landed him a spot on the airwaves, now taking on hitz.fm Kuching Top 40, Borneo English Top 10 and hitz.fm Kuching 10 in a Row on weekends. Besides crooning to Alex Clares Too Close and Carly Rae Jepsens Call Me Maybe, Kiyoshi loves his skateboards and being outdoors. He quips after his first on-air experience, Despite what everyone thinks on how its like to go on-air, a lot of hard work goes into the entire show, before, during and after! So, theres a new found respect for all the radio announcers out there.

TIME & DAY

1pm 4pm Mon Fri 4pm 8pm Mon Fri

WHATS ON?
hitz.fm Kuching Top 40 with Kiyoshi hitz.fm Drive Thru with Meng & Natasha

WHATS IT ABOUT?
Counting down 40 of the biggest hits! Cruise on home with the hottest hits and be entertained by Kuching announcers! Plus get your trafc info and news right here! The best of Borneo all in one hour, counting down with Kiyoshi the top 10 songs from both Sarawak & Sabah and be blown away by Borneos home-grown talents! Back-to-back hits to enjoy on Saturday afternoons.

11am 12pm

hitz.fm Kuching Borneo English Top 10

12pm 3pm

hitz.fm Kuching 10 in a Row with Kiyoshi

Tune in to hitz.fm on 95.3FM in Kuching or Astro channel 852. Or stream it online www.hitz.fm. Check out whats happening on

www.hitz.fm and the hitz.fm Kuching Facebook page.

Vol.19

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Vol.19

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