Lifestyle – Page 21

The 13th Latin American Festival which was jointly organized by the Group of Latin America and Caribbean Countries (GRULAC) embassies in Malaysia from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico and Peru, in collaboration with Plaza Low Yat, Federal Hotels International, The Federal Kuala Lumpur and Hotel Capitol Kuala Lumpur was successfully held on last Sunday 25 September 2022 in Commons KL @ bbpark, Bukit Bintang.

This event was supported by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur), KL Tourism Bureau, the Latin Ladies Association of Malaysia and the Malaysian Red Crescent.

“We hope that Malaysians, KLites, the local communities, expatriate communities as well as the domestic and international tourists visiting Kuala Lumpur, will be able to soak up the culture and offerings of our Latin American friends this year. Part of our tradition at the Latin American festival is the sales of raffle tickets and food and beverages for a noble cause.”
said Mr Darrell Choy, General Manager of Plaza Low Yat.

For A Noble Cause
Part of the tradition at the Latin American festival was the sales of raffle tickets and food and beverages for a noble cause. All proceeds this year were donated to the Malaysian Foundation for the Blind – a non-profit organization that was established to improve the lives of blind and partially-sighted people in Malaysia.

Some of the tenants at Plaza Low Yat sponsored the lucky draw prizes comprising of a gaming laptop and the latest IT gadgets. Lucky winners walked away with attractive lucky draw prizes that include the Grand Prize of a round trip Economy flight ticket to one of the following destinations: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba or Mexico, courtesy of Turkish Airlines to use it in 2023.

It is hoped that this event bridges the gap between both cultures as this event sees the opportunity to promote and showcase our Malaysian culture to the Latin American communities.

“This one-day event celebrates the diversity of culture, tastes and rhythms of Latin America and the Caribbean, a great opportunity for all to experience the rich culture, handmade arts & crafts, traditional music & dance, as well as enjoy delicious culinary taste and flavours of each of these seven vibrant Latin America and Caribbean Countries from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico and Peru. The rhythms and music will take you on a journey through the myriad sounds and beats of Latin music.”
said Ms Ooi Lee Ping, Director of Group Marketing, Sales & Business Development and Operations of Federal Hotels International.

Full of Vibrant Colours and Pulsating Vibes
The 13th Latin American spiced up Bukit Bintang and Kuala Lumpur City once again with its magical display of vibrant colours and pulsating vibes of Latin American music and rhythms, dances be it Salsa, Samba or Tango, art & craft as well as handicraft from the Continent, which was a great way to further strengthen the friendship & cultural exchange between Malaysia and the Latin American & Caribbean Countries.

Through this festival, we also witnessed the colourful diversity of our rich Malaysian culture and heritage with the expatriate communities as well as tourists. We all know that Bukit Bintang has always been the popular tourist hotspot in Kuala Lumpur.

Spread A Little Kindness
This was definitely another memorable experience to enjoy the rich culture and an authentic taste of Latin American gastronomic delights, a celebration of life, arts, food, music, dance, culture and heritage, whilst at the same time spreading a little spirit of cheer and kindness as proceeds from this festival were channelled to Charity namely Yayasan Orang Buta Malaysia (YOBM). This meaningful Charity event was one of FHI Group’s continuous Sharing & Caring Community Commitments.

It was my pleasure to be able to witness the beautiful and colourful event on that day. I really enjoyed myself there and learning a little bit more about the culture and heritage of the Latin American community.

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Food & Drink, Lifestyle

Blueberries: Superfood Great as Snacks and Versatile Ingredient in Cooking & Baking

September 1, 2022May 10, 2023 dixonthum

Blueberries are naturally sweet, tart and nutritious – making them a beloved superfood.

Oregon and Washington are the two top blueberry producing states in the U.S. Because of the ideal growing conditions, these two states offer the best quality fruits that garnered much popularity the world over.

For your information, blueberries are popular for their benefits and are known to be a heart-healthy superfood, highly versatile to be enjoyed as it is – a snack or incorporated into various recipes. They are widely used in baked items, salads, desserts, and smoothies. Visually, the fruits look very appealing and energise any meal.

Blueberries as Main Ingredients in Cooking & Baking

To showcase the versatility of using blueberries in cooking and baking, this time Oregon & Washington Blueberries has collaborated with Chef Bob Kamaruddin Adnin to create 2 recipes using Oregon & Washington Blueberries as one of the main ingredients.

I have tried one of the recipes which is the Bean Sprout Kerabu with Blueberry Sauce. Here’s a short clip of my cooking experience.

Sharing my experience in cooking Bean Sprout Kerabu with Blueberry Sauce

Watch Chef Bob in action through these links:
1) Blueberry Crumble Pie : https://youtu.be/WPfCjdEN1jE
2) Bean Sprout Kerabu with Blueberry Sauce: https://youtu.be/Y6L9xp4WMdU

Rich in Antioxidants and Nutrients

Research findings indicate blueberries contain antioxidants and other nutrients that aid our bodies to stay healthy and may help prevent age-related diseases.

Below are the various blueberries nutrition facts and health benefits:

1. One cup (148g) of blueberries contributes 25% of your daily value of vitamin C, 14.4 milligrams of vitamin C.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant stabilizing free radicals, thus helping to prevent cellular damage.
Vitamin C aids in collagen production; assists with iron absorption; and helps heal wounds and keep your gums healthy.
Vitamin C may help support the body’s immune system.

2. One cup (148g) of blueberries contains 3.6g fibre, equivalent to 14% of your daily fibre requirement.

Dietary fibre has been shown to provide numerous health benefits, including improving blood lipid levels, regulating blood glucose, and increasing satiety (makes you feel full longer), which may help with weight loss.

3. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants

Blueberries are believed to have one of the highest antioxidant levels of all common fruits and vegetables.
Antioxidants protect your body from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage your cells and contribute to aging and diseases.

4. One cup (148g) of blueberries contributes 36% of your daily value of vitamin K, 28 micromilligrams of vitamin K.

Low intakes of vitamin K have been linked to a higher risk of bone fracture. However, adequate vitamin K intake improves calcium absorption and may reduce calcium loss.

Blueberries are certified as a heart-healthy food by the American Heart Association and contain natural compounds that help the brain stay strong.

For more information about blueberries from the U.S., do check out the links below:
Oregon Blueberries: https://www.oregonblueberry.com/
Washington Blueberries: https://wablueberries.com/wa-blueberry-commission/

Recipe of Bean Sprout Kerabu with Blueberry Sauce

Ingredients:
300 grams beansprouts, tailed and wash thoroughly
Half cup of chopped or julienned French beans
1 medium shallots or red onion, thinly sliced
2 bird eye chillies, finely chopped

150grams of poached prawns
Springs of basil leaves

Half cup of lightly toasted desiccated coconut

SPICE INGREDIENTS – Pound in pestle and mortar
50 grams shallots or red onion – chopped
2 garlic cloves
1 red chilli
1 tbsp dried shrimp, soak in hot water to soften
Pinch of salt
1 tsp sugar

1 tsp vegetable oil

Blueberry sauce
2 tbsp butter
1 cup of Oregon or Washington fresh blueberries
1 to 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp orange or lemon juice
1 tbsp honey

Method:
In a mixing bowl, mix the beansprouts, French beans, sliced onions, birds eye chillies and set aside.

Heat the 1 tsp of oil in a frying pan and then sauté the pounded ingredients for a few minutes then add in the desiccated coconut, stir to mix. Season with salt and sugar.

Let the pan cook for another one minute then turn the heat off. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes before mixing it to the beansprouts bowl. As the beansprouts are mixed into the warm coconut mixture they will soften slightly while maintaining its crunchiness. Cover and put in the fridge.

Make the blueberry sauce. Heat butter in a pan. Once melted add in the Oregon or Washington fresh blueberries and the rest of the sauce ingredients. Let boil then turn down the heat to simmer for 5 minutes.

To serve: Top salad with poached prawns then drizzle the blueberry sauce onto the salad. Garnish with basil leaves and more chopped chillies if you prefer.

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Health & Wellness, Lifestyle, Travel

Komune Living & Wellness, the Largest Integrated Co-living & Wellness Hub in Southeast Asia

August 30, 2022May 10, 2023 dixonthum

My wife and I had a great staycation experience in our weekend co-living getaway at Komune Living & Wellness, a resort in the the city, located in Bandar Tasik Permaisuri, Cheras.

The service of their staff was exemplary good and friendly. We felt welcomed by their hospitality the moment we stepped in their lobby.

I am amazed that Komune Living & Wellness is the largest integrated co-living & wellness hub in Southeast Asia. Guests of all ages can enjoy so many different facilities & activities here like:
🎱Games room
🎬Theatrette
🎤KTV room
♨️Warm pool & jacuzzi
🏋🏼‍♂️Gym
🏊🏼‍♂️Swimming pool
💻Work lounge
🏞️Open deck
🍜Food Court @luckyluckyfoodstore
🀄Calligraphy classes at the Community Living Hall on Saturday (4-5pm)
🕺🏼Aerodance, Saturday (8-9am)
☯️Tai-chi, Sunday (9am-12pm)
🏃🏻Exercise at the park

I find this place is also very suitable for families with seniors as it is also equipped with wellness and senior care services like:
☑️Medical + Traditional Chinese
☑️Medicine consultation
☑️Wellness massage and therapies
☑️Senior daycare facilities
☑️Professional care providers
☑️Senior care concierge services
☑️Medical escort
☑️And many more!

If you are looking for a one-night staycation with loved ones, a short stay or long stay for business or family matters, do check out @komune.living.wellness as the room rate is very affordable for a resort in the city area with so many facilities.

Do check out their social media platforms for their latest promotions.
*Wellness Getaway package for 2: https://bit.ly/3cV2E9N

*26 Hours Staycation from as low as RM140+ per night: https://bit.ly/3D4GzQP

📍Komune Living & Wellness
21, Jalan Tasik Permaisuri 2,
Bandar Tun Razak,
56000 Kuala Lumpur
Website: https://komunewellness.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/komune.living.wellness/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/komune.living.wellness/

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Food & Drink, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

U.S. Potatoes Boosts Athletic Performance in Twincity Marathon 2022

August 2, 2022May 10, 2023 dixonthum

Twincity Marathon 2022 flagged off on 23-24 July 2022 in Persiaran Flora, Cyberjaya

I feel so delighted knowing that there so many people participated in the Twincity Marathon 2022 held on 23-24 July 2022 in Persiaran Flora, Cyberjaya. I used to be a long-distance runner too and a proud finisher of three half marathons. Running long distance like any other exercise requires the right food to provide nutrients and energy.

For your information, potatoes are a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides the energy, fiber, potassium and Vitamin C which boost sport performances and help fuel people who do sports or lead an active lifestyle. Recent research findings indicated that potatoes are found to have the nutrients that could benefit fitness buffs, marathoners and sportspersons. Isn’t this great?

U.S. potato products served to the 4,000 runners in both the full and half marathons

Potatoes USA took on the role of a key sponsor of this Twincity Marathon 2022. An outdoor tent was erected, with various personnel serving U.S. potato products to the 4,000 runners in both the full and half marathons.

The U.S. mashed potatoes served are aimed to help runners replenish energy levels and nutrients needed after the marathon. Educational materials on potato power nutrition to improve sports performance were also distributed at the event.

This event was also graced by the participation of His Excellency U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia, Mr. Brian D. McFeeters, 61 years of age, who took part in the half marathon (21km run). “I am delighted to see Potatoes USA as a sponsor of this marathon and glad to have the information that potatoes are healthy, high in potassium, Vitamin C and fiber – which are great for post recovery,” quipped Mr. Brian. “So now, maybe Malaysian can get to enjoy more potatoes like what we do in the U.S.,” he continued.

U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia, Mr. Brian D. McFeeters participated in the Twincity Marathon 2022

Clocking an impressive marathon finishing time of 2.27 hours, Brian showed that with proper diet and fuel, at his age, he could still beat many younger Malaysians in the half marathon. Despite his busy schedule, he exercises regularly and maintains a healthy diet with the help of U.S. potatoes.

Max Lim, 51, a writer in KL loves to run and is a familiar face at most marathons in town. “As a runner, I love U.S. potatoes because they are a nutritional powerhouse that help me stay fueled for my runs. They are quite easy to digest and reduce hunger pangs during a long or intense run. Furthermore, they are tasty and can be prepared in many ways – there are no limit to the versatility of the U.S. potatoes,” enthused Max.

Runner Kelly Chin, 45 years old, said she enjoys eating U.S. Potatoes for her carbo energy, as it is a healthier alternative. “Potatoes are one of the must-haves in my kitchen because they are versatile, nutrient-dense, and energy packed food. This helps to fuel my workouts and runs,” she explained.

Over the past 40-50 years, numerous studies had been conducted and suggested that carbohydrates are a primary macronutrient for sustaining and improving athletic performance. According to Nutrition Today, a US journal, it is suggested that a balanced diet high in natural, quality carbohydrate rich foods like nutrient-densed potatoes may be optimal to improving physical performance among elite endurance athletes.

Here are some key facts about the potato power:

26 grams of carbohydrate – Potatoes are a nutrient-dense quality carbohydrate, important for optimal physical and mental performance as the primary fuel for your brain and a key source of energy for muscles. And, because your body’s own stores of carbohydrate are limited and may be depleted – even in a single session of intense and/or prolonged exercise– it’s important to replenish them.
620 Milligrams of Potassium – A medium-sized (148g) potato, with the skin-on, provides more potassium than a banana, no fat, no sodium, and no cholesterol. Potatoes are perfect for aiding muscle, cardiovascular and nervous system function during long endurance events.
30% of daily value of Vitamin C – Potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C which helps to boost the immune system and aids in collagen production, a major muscle tissue component.
3 grams of plan-based protein – Protein is a key component of muscle and an important nutrient for performance.
2 grams of fiber (7% daily value) – Fiber helps regulate blood glucose and increase satiety, making one feel full longer.
110 Calories for Energy – Easily digestible and more energy dense than any other popular vegetable, potatoes are a good choice to fuel the demands of racing a marathon.

Time to boost your performance with Potatoes USA!
FB: https://www.facebook.com/MYpotatoesUSA
Website: https://uspotatogoodness.com.my/

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Food & Drink, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

Get Your Healthy Clean Food from Ngam Ngam Neighbourhood in Lalaport BBCC

July 12, 2022May 10, 2023 dixonthum

I always make sure my nutrients are in check, having a healthy & balanced diet with ngam ngam portion. The newly opened, Ngam Ngam Neighbourhood that is located on the 3rd Floor of Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Centre does just that by serving healthy food with a twist of local flavour.

What’s Ngam Ngam?
“Ngam” means “Just right” or “Suitable” in the Cantonese dialect. With this, the founder wishes that everyone can get the right amount of nutrients to fulfill their daily diet necessities to maintain a healthy lifestyle at affordable price. Isn’t this cute?

I was invited to attend its grand opening on 10 July 2022 and boy did I enjoy the party! We started off with a meal. I chose the Salmon Set and Shrimp Set. Delicious healthy meals, great to replenish energy and protein especially after working out. They have other sets too like Chicken Set and Unagi Set. Vegetarian options are available too.

I like the idea of having us to pick our own sauce and condiments at its special counter. There are healthy options like sesame, chia seeds, seaweed, sunflower seeds and special sauces like leicha sauce, garlic sauce and many more to choose from.

It was also my first experience working out on Lalaport’s Central Rooftop Garden. The HIIT exercise session was led by fitness trainer, Joey Tng. It was very nice to get an opportunity to meet some other fellow influencers like Cherish, Ailyne, Cindy, Vernis and Agnes. (Do checkout their IG)

Here I congratulate Ngam Ngam Neighbourhood on their grand opening and wish them good business all year round! For more information about Ngam Ngam Neighbourhood, check out their social media.