Lifestyle

Jujutsu Kaisen Experience: Anime Frenzy Sweeps Malaysia with Exclusive Merchandise and Culinary Delights!

I had the opportunity to attend the groundbreaking ‘Jujutsu Kaisen Experience’ in Malaysia, running from April 27th to July 27th, 2024, held at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Level 3, Pink Zone! Attendees indulged in delectable Japanese fusion cuisine while immersing themselves in memorable interactions with beloved anime characters. Plus, we explored Malaysia’s expansive Jujutsu Kaisen merchandise store, making it an unforgettable event for fans!

In collaboration between ACO LAB and ACO MEDIA, this pop-up event guarantees an unparalleled experience, delivering the highly anticipated anime in an innovative format. Featuring an anime café, photo zone, and merchandise store, the three key areas of the “Jujutsu Kaisen Experience” will transport fans into the captivating world of Jujutsu Kaisen, allowing them to immerse themselves in iconic scenes from the anime.

Anime Café
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure! Whether you’re an anime aficionado or a food connoisseur, the ACO LAB anime café promises to delight your senses. Indulge in a diverse array of Japanese fusion dishes and savor specialty foods inspired by Jujutsu Kaisen. From delectable desserts and refreshing beverages to savory delicacies, each bite will transport you to a fantastical realm of flavor!

Jujutsu Kaisen Photo Zone
Discover more than 5 captivating photo zones and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Jujutsu Kaisen. Get up close with your beloved characters as they come to life in meticulously crafted settings. Each photo zone is thoughtfully designed to showcase iconic scenes and characters from the anime, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the fantastical realm of anime.

Malaysia’s Largest Jujutsu Kaisen Merchandise Store
There are over 120 exclusive limited-edition Jujutsu Kaisen merchandise items, exclusively available at the ACO LAB merchandise store. It’s a haven for anime enthusiasts! Whether you’re searching for T-shirts, collectible cards, character acrylic stands, or table mats, each item is meticulously crafted, allowing you to proudly display your adoration for Jujutsu Kaisen and connect with fellow fans. Surrounded by a diverse array of exquisite merchandise, prepare for an unparalleled shopping experience filled with joy and excitement!

Prepare for an unparalleled experience like no other, from stunning anime scene recreations to delectable delicacies and exclusive limited-edition merchandise. Get ready to make unforgettable memories! Don’t miss out on the chance to share this extraordinary experience with your loved ones. Bring them along and immerse yourselves in the fun together!

Jujutsu Kaisen Experience Details
Date: 27 April 2024 (Saturday) – 27 July 2024 (Saturday)
Time: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm, Monday to Sunday
Venue: Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Level 3, Pink Zone
Ticketing Platform: Ticket2U
Official Website: https://www.acolab.cafe/

RM20 PACKAGERM40 PACKAGERM70 PACKAGE
x1 Photo Zone Admission
x1 Souvenir Card
x1 Jujutsu Kaisen Drink
x1 Coaster
x1 Photo Zone Admission
x1 Souvenir Card
x1 Jujutsu Kaisen Main Dish
x1 Collectible Card
x1 Chop Collection Card
x1 Photo Zone Admission
x1 Souvenir Card
x1 Jujutsu Kaisen Meal Set (x1 Main Dish, x1 Drink & x1 Dessert)
x1 Coaster
x2 Collectible Card
x1 Chop Collection Card
Souvenir Card Package Details

For more information and the latest updates, please stay tuned to ACO LAB official social media:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/acolab.cafe/)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/acolab.cafe/)

About ACO LAB
ACO LAB, where the vibrant worlds of anime come to life in a truly immersive experience. With three areas to explore, you can not only indulge in meticulously crafted anime-inspired cuisines in our cafe but also bring home one-of-a-kind collectibles from our merchandise store. Immerse yourself in interactive zones that breathe life into your favourite anime worlds. Stay tuned to find out which anime ACO LAB will be bringing to you next!

Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

KL Wellness City Unveils 624-Bed Tertiary Hospital & Commits RM2 Million to Aid B40 Community in Alignment with Ministry of Health Goals

It was my first time visiting KL Wellness City and I am really amazed with this place and already looking forward to its project completion. On 2 May 2024, the inaugural tertiary hospital of KL Wellness City (KLWC) – the first purpose-built township in Southeast Asia, has been unveiled under KL International Hospital Sdn Bhd. The initial phase of KLIH is poised to achieve a development worth of RM1 billion, aiming for completion by the second quarter of 2026 and an anticipated inauguration in the third quarter of the same year. Presently, the groundwork has been finalized, and construction of the main structure is proceeding at full pace.

For your information, KLIH is positioned to become a tertiary hospital with 624 beds, expandable to accommodate up to 1,000 beds. It will feature cutting-edge facilities aimed at delivering a holistic and integrated healthcare service ecosystem, aligning with the broader healthcare and wellness principles established within KL Wellness City. Phase 1 of the 624-bed tertiary hospital is slated for completion in Q2 2026, with a development value at RM1 billion.

I would like to congratulate KL International Hospital Sdn Bhd on the momentous launch of the international tertiary hospital in KL Wellness City. This visionary development augurs well and complements the Government’s vision and effort to be the world’s leading medical and healthcare one stop centre. I’m pleased to see a strong commitment in investing and leveraging on information and communications technology (ICT) within the hospital, in its quest to be equipped with the first and best medical innovation including robotics in Malaysia.

said Health Minister YB Datuk Seri Dr. Haji Dzulkefly Ahmad

In the event, The Ministry of Health extends its heartfelt gratitude to KL International Hospital Sdn Bhd for their generous pledge of RM2 million to assist B40 individuals in accessing medical treatment. This significant contribution strengthens the endeavors to deliver healthcare services to marginalized communities, underscoring the mutual dedication to health equity in Malaysia. Additionally, the Ministry commends KL Wellness City for their ongoing initiatives to bring happiness to various communities during this festive season, particularly the children. Their dedication truly enriches the lives of individuals within the society.

KL International Hospital Sdn Bhd has committed RM2 million to aid the medical requirements of Malaysia’s B40 community. This endeavor resonates with the company’s mission to promote wellness and nurture a fully inclusive society, concurrently supporting the Ministry of Health’s objectives in addressing the healthcare needs of underprivileged individuals in Malaysia. This pledge arrives at an opportune juncture following the recent introduction of the Health Equity For Affordable and Rapid Treatment (HEART) program, providing complimentary treatment to patients from public hospitals. Such initiatives bolster the Ministry of Health’s dedication to accessible healthcare through robust collaborations between the public and private sectors.

As we launch the KL International Hospital Sdn Bhd within the KL Wellness City, we’re constructing not just a state-of-the-art facility but infusing it with a cutting-edge healthcare ecosystem. This development represents our commitment to enhancing the standard of living through integrated wellness and healthcare, setting a new benchmark for medical excellence in Malaysia as well as Southeast Asia. Our aim is clear: to redefine the boundaries of healthcare, attract top-tier medical talent and provide unparalleled patient care.

said Dato’ Dr. Colin Lee, Managing Director of KL Wellness City Sdn Bhd.

Strategically situated in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, with convenient proximity to international airports, KLIH will boast 22 operating theaters, incorporating facilities for robotic surgery and two hybrid operating theaters. Through its comprehensive range of medical services, spanning intricate surgeries to tertiary and secondary care, the hospital endeavors to draw top specialists to elevate patient care and leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to reduce patient wait times. Moreover, the hospital is actively pursuing Green Building Index certification, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable development in tandem with its global healthcare offerings.

I’m glad that I attended the event to witness the meaningful event.

About KL Wellness City
KL Wellness City Sdn Bhd is the master township developer. At the forefront of wellness and healthcare, KL Wellness City is the first in Southeast Asia to cultivate a lifestyle fully integrated with healthcare. Pioneering a comprehensive ecosystem embodying healthcare and wellness living, KL Wellness City’s concept is uniquely modelled by its declaration to redefining, strengthening, and broadening our experience of health and quality of life. Sharing in this vision of building a 360-degree wellness hub, the KL Wellness City community boasts The International Tertiary Hospital, Medical Suites, innovation laboratories, clinical R&D facilities, healthcare company office towers, a retirement resort, a Healthcare Hub, wellness-centric serviced apartments, a fitness-based Central Park, and more. Serving as a healthcare nexus, these pivotal elements collectively render KL Wellness City the ultimate one-stop oasis for the body and the mind. Each component of this township is carefully conceptualised to excel both independently and collectively as a part of the community’s integrated ecosystem encompassing medical care, healthcare, wellness and fitness. 

For more information, visit: http://klwellnesscity.com/

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Experience Unforgettable Family Bonding with ‘SHARP Travel with Parents’ this Parents’ Day, in Collaboration with Astro

Sharp Electronics (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (SHARP), known for its innovative technology and electronic solutions, has teamed up with Astro to launch the ‘SHARP Travel with Parents’ SHARP 带爸妈去旅行 series. This collaboration aims to celebrate the essence of Mother’s and Father’s Day by highlighting the significance of family connections through travel experiences. The series focuses on fostering intimate interactions between parents and children, fostering warmth and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

The inaugural season of ‘SHARP Travel with Mommy’ 带阿母去旅行 premiered in 2023, garnering widespread acclaim and high viewership ratings. It even clinched the prestigious ‘Best Lifestyle Programme’ award for the Malaysia region at the Asian Academy Creatives Awards. Now, the eagerly awaited second season is set to debut on 12 May 2024, at 9:30 pm on Astro AEC, Astro GO, On Demand, and sooka. This season expands its focus to include the entire family, promising to create unforgettable memories together. Viewers can expect to be taken on a journey to both international destinations like Australia, Macau, and Taiwan, as well as local Malaysian gems such as Sitiawan and Pangkor Island, in search of the perfect family getaway spot.

Local TV personality and SHARP’s Parents’ Day campaign ambassador, Jason Yeoh, graced the event alongside his mother, Madam Lim Poh Choo. Together, they shared touching anecdotes about their travels made possible by SHARP’s innovative products. Their stories underscored the significant influence these journeys had on their family life, emphasizing the importance of quality time spent together.

The theme of travelling with parents has resonated strongly with our audience, and following the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our first season with Astro, we were eager to launch the second season. This new season honours all parents by expanding the program to include the entire family. Our aim for the ‘SHARP Travel with Parents’ SHARP 带爸妈去旅行series is to craft special moments that every family member can treasure.

said Mr Ting Yang Chung, Managing Director of SHARP Malaysia

This year, ‘SHARP Travels with Parents’ SHARP 带爸妈去旅行 goes beyond showcasing scenic destinations suitable for elderly parents. It also encourages viewers to fulfill their parents’ travel dreams while they still can.

In honor of Parents’ Day, SHARP conducted a street interview, gathering insights from 50 Malaysian participants. Many expressed a strong desire to travel with their parents but found planning the trip challenging due to a lack of information. Additionally, over 80% of respondents planned to purchase home appliances as gifts during Parents’ Day, with televisions and refrigerators emerging as the popular choices.

To address this growing demand, SHARP has introduced a special Parents’ Day promotion aimed at assisting Malaysian families in upgrading their home appliances to express gratitude to their loved ones. The promotion features discounts of up to 40% and includes complimentary gifts with purchases, encompassing over 70 products including televisions, washing machines, and air conditioners. Furthermore, SHARP is gearing up to launch a travel content series on Facebook and Xiao Hong Shu, offering valuable insights and travel tips for upcoming family adventures.

Mr. Ting expressed SHARP’s commitment to enhancing the consumer experience in Malaysia through innovative products. He highlighted the company’s aim to encourage Malaysians to enjoy the outdoors with their families and appreciate nature’s beauty this Parents’ Day. Mr. Ting credited their enduring partnership with Astro and the support from Jason Yeoh and his mother for bringing enriching narratives to consumers. He eagerly anticipated future collaborations and celebrating more milestones together.

For further details on SHARP’s Parents’ Day Campaign and the ‘Travel with Parents’ series, please visit their official website at https://my.sharp/. Stay updated by following their social media channels:
• Facebook: @SharpMsia
• Instagram: @sharp.malaysia
• Xiao Hong Shu: Sharp Malaysia
• TikTok: @sharpmalaysia

About Sharp Electronics (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
Established in 1985 and formerly known as Sharp Malaysia Sales & Service Company (M) Sdn Bhd, Sharp Electronics (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. is the marketing arm of the Sharp Group in Malaysia and is responsible for the sales, marketing and promotion of all Sharp products in the country.

SHARP’s products are available at official authorised dealers: https://bit.ly/34OKXkI  

Food & Drink

Taste the Tradition: Xin Cuisine’s Dim Sum Delights in Concorde Hotel KL

In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, there’s a special place called Xin Cuisine. It’s part of the Concorde Hotel, known for its great food and nice atmosphere. With its elegant ambiance and delectable offerings, Xin Cuisine has carved a niche for itself as a premier destination for lovers of Chinese cuisine, specifically dim sums & roasted meat, in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It has been operating since many years back but this was my first dining experience there. I really enjoyed it. When Xin Cuisine is the very few non-halal restaurants in a hotel in Malaysia, you know this must be really classic and gold.

Embracing Timeless Traditional Cantonese Food & Dim Sum at Xin Cuisine
For your info, Xin Cuisine is all about serving really good Cantonese food. They have lots of different dishes, like juicy barbecued meats, porridge, noodles and assorted dim sums. Every piece of dim sum was handmade with care, and I could really taste every bite is full of flavour and sincerity.

Dim sum, the beloved tradition of Cantonese cuisine, takes center stage at Xin Cuisine, where diners can savor a wide variety of these delectable bite-sized delights. Steamed, fried, or baked to perfection, dim sum offerings at Xin Cuisine range from delicate dumplings to fluffy buns, all served in the traditional manner using push-carts, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.

Among the popular choices are:
Trio Combination Platter (BBQ Pork, Roasted Pork, Roasted Duck)
Prawn Dumpling 故乡鲜虾饺
Siew Mai 烧卖
Steamed Chicken Claw 豉汁蒸风爪 
Steamed Fish Ball 茜菜蒸鱼卖
BBQ Pork Bun 蜜汁叉烧包 
Seafood Dumpling Soup海鲜灌汤饺
Fried Salad Prawn 沙律炸虾角
Prawn Fritters 韭菜虾饼
BBQ Puff 叉烧酥 
Egg Tart 酥皮蛋挞
Fried Beancurd Prawn 鲜虾腐皮卷
Baked Coconut Bun 菠萝椰丝包
Bamboo Rice 竹筒咸鱼粒饭
Lychee Cheesy Prawn Ball 荔枝芝士虾球*
Rice Wine Chicken Bun黄酒鸡包*
Fried Shrimp Cheong Fun 炸脆皮肠粉*
Osmanthus Jelly 桂花糕
Mango Pomelo Sago 杨枝金露
*Limited-Time Dim Sum Specials – Weekday Exclusive

Private Functions and Weddings
Xin Cuisine provides four themed private dining rooms exclusively for private groups. On weekends, these rooms adapt to host larger crowds by opening their walls. Additionally, Xin Cuisine is available for wedding dinner banquets, accommodating approximately 20 tables.

I’m glad I visited on a weekday because I had the pleasure of enjoying beautiful Chinese music played by a resident artist on the traditional instrument known as the ‘guzheng’ 古筝. This is only available on weekdays.

The History of Two Dragon Pillars
At Xin Cuisine, you’ll find an enduring elegance embodied by two ornate dragon pillars that have adorned the premises since the era when it was known as Hotel Merlin. Crafted from a single tree trunk sourced from Taiwan, these pillars were skillfully carved by a talented craftsman from Taiwan during that time.

📍Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant
Concorde Hotel KL, Jln Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Operating hours :
Monday – Friday: 11.00 am – 2.30 pm (brunch) & 6.00 pm – 10.00 pm (dinner)
Saturday: 9.00 am – 2.30 pm (brunch) & 6.00 pm – 10.00 pm (dinner)
Sunday & PH: 8.30 am – 2.30 pm (brunch) & 6.00 pm – 10.00 pm (dinner)
Tel: 03-2144 2200 extension 2338
*This is a non-halal restaurant
*Booking is allowed on weekdays. Strictly no booking on weekends.

Discovering the Legacy of Concorde Hotel KL
Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur, (formerly known as Merlin Hotel) a landmark in the bustling cityscape of Kuala Lumpur, provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable dining experience at Xin Cuisine. With its strategic location in the Golden Triangle, the hotel offers easy access to major shopping malls like Suria KLCC, Pavilion KL, Sungei Wang, entertainment venues, and corporate offices, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers alike.

Travel

Exploring Penang’s Peranakan Heritage: A Journey Through the Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Penang has always been a place rich with culture and tradition. Peranakan, also known as Baba-Nyonya, is a cultural group commonly found in Penang, originating from Chinese immigrants who settled in the region and intermarried with local Malays, Indonesians or Thais. This fusion of Chinese, Malay, and sometimes European influences has given rise to a distinct hybrid culture characterized by unique language, cuisine, attire, and customs.

To understand better about the Peranakan heritage, we went to the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, located in the bustling streets of Georgetown, Penang. It is also fondly referred to as the “Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum,” an enchanting destination beckons travelers and locals alike to embark on a captivating journey through the annals of Peranakan history.

Finding the Mansion
Located on Church Street, the mansion is easy to spot with its grand facade. Getting in won’t break the bank either; the entrance fee is pretty reasonable, making it a great stop for anyone curious about Penang’s past.

AdultRM25/pax
Child (6 to 12 years old)RM12/pax
Child (below 6)Free
Entrance Fee to Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Guided Tour
I lucked out and joined a guided tour led by Mr. Stanley! He had a knack for storytelling, turning the tour into a mix of history lesson and stand-up comedy. His jokes had us chuckling while we learned about the mansion’s past. Guided tour is free, but it is scheduled according to batches. You may check with the counter for the full schedule timing.

Dress-Up Time
If you are feeling adventurous, you can opt to rent a Baba Nyonya costume. It wasn’t very pricey and it add-on value to the whole experience! I saw many lady visitors wearing the traditional Nyonya costume that day, and that’s definitely a pretty sight. More info here.

A Scene from TV Drama
Here’s a fun fact: ever watched the internationally-acclaimed Singaporean TV drama, “The Little Nyonya”, that featured Jeanette Aw, Joanne Peh, Qi Yuwu, Pierre Png, Yao Wenlong and Dai Xiangyu? Well, guess what? Some scenes from this popular drama were filmed right here! Walking through the mansion, you might feel like you’re in the show, adding a cool twist to your visit.

Preserving History
More than just a tourist spot, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion is like a time capsule, preserving the stories and traditions of Malaysia’s Peranakan community. It’s a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that makes Penang so special. There are many replicas and real antique items, like furniture, costumes, vase, treasure boxes, accessories, and paintings, to name a few, on display in the huge mansion.

Lady is Always Right
In the Peranakan culture, there’s a traditional practice where during photographs, men typically sit or stand on the left side of their wives, symbolizing leadership or power. However, in one particular photograph on display, this convention is reversed. The couple chose to do so because it was believed that the man had married into the woman’s family, a practice known as “入贅” (rù zhuì).

Kingfisher Feather Jewelry
There was a set of stunning accessories—a headdress, earrings, and necklace—that are noteworthy. Kingfisher feather jewelry, a traditional adornment, features the iridescent feathers of the kingfisher bird crafted into decorative pieces like hairpins, earrings, brooches, and pendants. Originating in China during the Qing Dynasty, this style gained popularity across East Asia and beyond. The vibrant blue and green hues of the feathers add a luxurious touch to the pieces. However, modern versions often use synthetic materials to mimic the feathers, addressing concerns about wildlife conservation. Mr. Stanley, our guide, mentioned that typically only 2-3 feathers were used per accessory, ensuring no harm to the birds.

Overall, my wife and I had a pleasant time visiting this mansion and learned new things about the Peranakan culture from this visit. I would suggest you to pay a visit in your next trip to Penang and join in the guided tour for a more wholesome experience.

📍Pinang Peranakan Mansion
29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
Operation hours: 9.30AM to 5PM (Monday to Sunday including Public Holidays)
IG: https://www.instagram.com/pinang_peranakan_mansion/
Website: http://www.pinangperanakanmansion.com.my/