Food & Drink

Celebrate Chinese New Year with The Chicken Rice Shop’s Limited-Time Ayam Oren!

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While everyone is celebrating Chinese New Year, my wife and I were excited to try The Chicken Rice Shop’s (TCRS) exclusive seasonal dish – the ‘Ayam Oren.’ This limited-time offering, available until 23 February 2025, puts a festive spin on the beloved orange chicken, blending traditional Chinese New Year flavours with a unique Malaysian twist.

We opted for the ONG You & Me Set, perfect for two people, and it did not disappoint. From the first bite, we were impressed by the well-balanced flavours. The chicken is coated in a luscious orange sauce that delivers a delightful mix of sweetness and tanginess, enhanced by a gentle warmth from the ginger. The toasted sesame seeds on top add a pleasant crunch, making every bite more satisfying.

What truly stood out was the fragrant rice and the perfectly cooked Spicy Savoury Lady’s Finger. The rice had just the right texture – fluffy and aromatic, complementing the savoury sweetness of the chicken. The lady’s finger was tender yet had a slight crunch, soaking up the flavourful sauce beautifully. The combination made for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

TCRS has designed their Ayam Oren sets to cater to different dining needs:

  • Ong-ly Me Set – Perfect for solo diners who want to indulge in the festive flavors.
  • ONG You & Me Set – Ideal for couples or friends sharing a delicious Lunar New Year meal.
  • Ong Like Us Set – A generous portion suited for groups of up to four, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings.

To complete the festive experience, TCRS also offers the Ong-ren Bliss beverage, a sweet & refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savoury notes of the Ayam Oren.

If you’re looking for a flavourful way to celebrate Chinese New Year, don’t miss the Ayam Oren at The Chicken Rice Shop. Available nationwide until 23 February 2025, this exclusive dish is a must-try for all food lovers.

Visit your nearest TCRS outlet today to experience this festive treat. For more details and promotions, visit www.thechickenriceshop.com or follow them on Facebook at The Chicken Rice Shop.

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Singapore Mediacorp Artistes Zoe Tay, Shaun Chen, and Zhang Ze Tong in Malaysia for Astro’s “Be Joyful. Share the Prosperity” Exclusive Fan Meet to Promote Upcoming Drama “Emerald Hill”

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On 25 January 2025, Zoe Tay, Shaun Chen, and Zhang Ze Tong arrived in Malaysia for the final stop of Astro’s “Be Joyful. Share the Prosperity” 《喜乐乐SHARE丰年》exclusive fan meet before Chinese New Year. The trio also promoted their upcoming drama, Emerald Hill 《小娘惹之翡翠山》, which is set to premiere this March on Astro AEC.

Set in Singapore during the 1950s and 60s, Emerald Hill, is a spin-off of the Mediacorp classic The Little Nyonya, a drama that received widespread acclaim when it originally aired. During a media group interview, Zoe Tay, Shaun Chen, and Zhang Ze Tong were asked if they felt pressure due to the success of the original series. All three denied feeling any pressure, with Zoe Tay expressing gratitude for the original drama’s popularity, as it sparked interest and discussions about the unique Peranakan culture.

This series marks Zoe Tay’s first time playing a character aged 70. She takes on the role of “Liu Xiu Niang,” the matriarch of a Nyonya family. Tay shared that she fully embraced the aging makeup, as she values the depth and substance of the role. She also adjusted her speech delivery to suit the character and emphasized her love for Chinese New Year, saying it’s a time when her family must reunite. “Even though I participate in recording Chinese New Year programs every year, I make it a point to have reunion dinner with my family earlier,” she said.

Shaun Chen, who plays Tay’s eldest son “Zhang Jinhai,” praised Taiwanese actor Hsiu Chieh-kai, who plays his younger brother “Zhang Jinhe,” for his dedication to his role. “It’s great to have him joining the cast. Coming from different countries, we had great exchanges, and the scenes between us three brothers are very engaging!”

Zhang Ze Tong, returning to Malaysia to promote the drama, plays Oon Shu An’s adopted son “Huang Zuye.” He admitted feeling nervous about working with Oon Shu An for the first time, but appreciated her guidance. “When I first collaborated with her, it was as a host. This time, acting alongside her felt intense. For one scene, I had to eat a Nyonya rice dumpling, but I kept messing up. Seeing this, she discussed it with the director, and they eventually found a way to shoot the scene so I didn’t have to eat so many dumplings,” he shared.

Apart from Zoe Tay, Shaun Chen, and Zhang Ze Tong, the fan meet also featured Astro artistes such as Jentzen Lim, Mavis Yap, Nicole Lai, Geraldine Gan, Vicky Tan, Kryston Woon, Ribbon Huang, and Xiao Wei Wei, who performed festive songs “Yi Qi Fa Da Fa Da La” 《一起发达发达啦》 and Astro’s CNY theme song,《SHARE丰年》. Cast members from Astro Originals’ Chinese New Year drama “All The Good Things” 《好事将至》, including Aenie Wong, Tedd Chan, Vivienne Onn, Wilson Lee, Sherlyn Seo, Alvin Wong, Hayden Ong, and Cai Yong Qi, also made appearances to celebrate the festivities with fans.

For more details on Astro’s 2025 Chinese New Year campaign, “Be Joyful. Share the Prosperity”, visit xilele2025.com. Sign up for the Astro One package for just RM49.99/month to enjoy endless on-demand entertainment. For an enhanced streaming experience, upgrade to RM139.99/month and get the Astro Fibre 500Mbps high-speed internet bundled with the Entertainment package. Visit the My Astro App, astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838 to learn more.

Food & Drink

Discover “Pesta Sajian Rasa” at The Pearl Kuala Lumpur’s Ramadan Buffet 2025

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I recently attended preview of “Pesta Sajian Rasa,” the much-anticipated Ramadan buffet at The Pearl Kuala Lumpur. Held at Melo Café & Deli and the Ballroom on Level 5, this year’s theme captured the vibrant energy of a Ramadan bazaar with its food truck-inspired concept.

From 3 to 28 March 2025, guests can indulge in over 100 local and international dishes, thoughtfully prepared to reflect the festive spirit of Ramadan.

Here are some of the dishes that stood out during the preview:

  • Gerai Mee Tarik Chinese Muslim, serving hand-pulled noodles with rich, flavorful broths.
  • Gerai Dumpling Chinese Muslim, offering both steamed and pan-fried dumplings.
  • Warung Satay Kajang, featuring juicy skewers of chicken and beef paired with aromatic peanut sauce.
  • Nasi Briyani Kambing and Ayam, fragrant rice dishes topped with tender lamb or chicken.
  • Gerai Shell Out, a seafood spread with prawns, squid, and clams in delectable sauces.
  • Warung Lemang, offering traditional glutinous rice cooked in bamboo with rendang.
  • Gerai BBQ, showcasing grilled chicken wings, lamb chops, and beef steaks.
  • Gerai Dim Sum, with an array of bite-sized delights.
  • Gerai Pasta Spaghetti, providing a touch of Italian flavors.
  • Desserts like Gerai ABC, Sago Gula Melaka, and aneka kuih-muih for a sweet finale.

The buffet also features Gerai Lok Ching, Warung Sup Tulang Rawan, and many more stalls that reflect the rich culinary diversity of Malaysia.

Early birds can enjoy special prices from 3 to 9 March 2025, with adult tickets at RM118 nett, children at RM68 nett, and senior citizens at RM98 nett. From 10 March 2025 onward, the buffet is priced at RM138 nett for adults, RM78 nett for children, and RM118 nett for senior citizens. Interesting is, for every 1 full paying adult gets 1 mystery gift FREE, executed in a blind box concept. Prizes range from luxury items like Louis Vuitton and Chanel to shopping vouchers from Watsons, Starbucks, and more.

The Pearl Kuala Lumpur also ensures a complete Ramadan experience with a Halal-certified kitchen by JAKIM and a surau on the 8th floor for Maghrib and Tarawih prayers. Guests can dine comfortably in the 200-seat Melo Café & Deli or host larger gatherings in the ballroom, which accommodates up to 1,000 people.

This buffet offers more than just food—it’s an opportunity to celebrate and create special memories with loved ones. Don’t miss this extraordinary dining experience at The Pearl Kuala Lumpur.

For Reservations:
Syuhada 016-331 9675 https://wa.link/hvlufe
Noraini 016-331 8794 https://wa.link/c7crhm
Mazwin 016-331 8729 https://wa.link/h75l50
Aliza 011-1162 4462 https://wa.link/2yu47i
Sani 016-331 8795 https://wa.link/myl2o5
Yusri 016-620 2070 https://wa.link/ag4oy0

Food & Drink

All-You-Can-Eat Seafood at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur: Book Now for 20% Off

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If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat! PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur’s “Bucked Out Seafood” night promises an unforgettable dining experience where you can eat your heart out with the freshest seafood selections. Happening every Sunday from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM, this family-sharing concept combines premium seafood, diverse cooking styles, and an ambiance perfect for indulging in culinary delights.

Start your adventure by selecting your seafood from an impressive variety that includes fresh shrimp, live oysters, clams, crabs, slipper lobsters, escalopes, and fish. Place your selections into a bucket, and watch as your chosen seafood is cooked to perfection in your preferred style—Malay, Chinese, or Indian. Once ready, the seafood is served piping hot on a tray, making it ideal for sharing and savouring with loved ones.

But the feast doesn’t stop there. The buffet also boasts an extensive range of local and international cuisines, a sashimi station for fans of Japanese delicacies, and a shabu-shabu corner for hotpot enthusiasts.

Boston Lobster for everyone!
To elevate the experience, every diner enjoys a serving of succulent Boston Lobster, prepared either in rich thermidor style or grilled with zesty lemon butter.

Here’s the pricing for this indulgent affair:
Adults: MYR238 per person
Kids (6-11 years old): MYR119 per person

Reservations open on January 19, so mark your calendar!

My Personal Feedback
My wife and I had the pleasure of trying out this buffet, and we were especially impressed by the Malay paprik-style seafood. The rich flavors and fragrant spices gave the dishes an irresistible appeal that we couldn’t get enough of. The free-flow of fresh oysters was another highlight, offering an indulgent, refreshing start to the meal. As for the Boston Lobster, I personally loved the thermidor style, where the creamy, cheesy sauce paired beautifully with the tender lobster meat.

Exclusive Deal for You, My Followers
Book through the eShop using the promo code DIXON20 to enjoy a 20% discount. The code is valid from 19 January to 23 February 2025. Take advantage of this special offer to make your Sunday night extra memorable.

Book Now: PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur eShop

Don’t miss the chance to treat yourself and your family to a luxurious seafood buffet. For more information, visit PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur’s website.

Enjoy exclusive savings for UOB and selected bank cardholders, eShop vouchers, and Pan Pacific DISCOVERY members for this offer. For dining reservations or enquiries, please WhatsApp at +6010 229 7156 or email dining.prckul@panpacific.com.

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025: A Spectacular Celebration to Welcome the Chinese New Year

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Astro’s flagship Chinese New Year event, the Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025 《Astro喜乐乐SHARE丰年新春跨年派对》, has once again captivated audiences nationwide. Pre-recorded at IJM Rimbayu, this grand celebration drew a crowd of over 10,000 attendees and will premiere on 28 January 2025 (Chinese New Year’s Eve), at 9:30 PM. Viewers can catch the excitement on Astro AEC (Channel 306), Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka, making it the perfect way to ring in the Chinese New Year.

A Stellar Lineup and Exciting Themes
Co-sponsored by IJM Rimbayu and powered by U Mobile as the official communications partner, the event is helmed by returning producers Pei Yong and Jaspers Lai. Hosting this year’s gala is an all-star male lineup featuring Jack Lim, Yann Kong Han, Nicholas Ong, and Darren Chong. Over 60 celebrities, including popular Malaysian artists, influencers, and Hong Kong superstar Bobby Au Yeung, as well as Singaporean comedy king Mark Lee, will take center stage.

The gala’s narrative revolves around a time-traveling detective, portrayed by Jaspers Lai, who opens a time rift, leading audiences on a journey through the Qing Dynasty, Republican Era, 1980s, 1990s, and modern times. The event combines creativity, technology, dance, and music, offering a multi-dimensional experience.

Show Highlights

  • Opening Performance: A vibrant medley of Malaysian-style festive classics featuring Mavis Gan, Freddie Huang, Crystal Ong, and more.
  • Elegant Dance Performances: Traditional cultural dances presented by Weon Kuan, Joey Leong, and others in Graceful Festive Moves.
  • Comedy Extravaganza: Local comedian Lucas joins his idol Mark Lee for a hilarious sketch, exploring parenting challenges with laugh-out-loud antics.
  • Classic Hits Revival: Performers like Jazz Bai Lin, Amy Chan and Kevin Lee deliver a Broadway-style musical titled Golden Melodies of the Ages.
  • Thrilling Circus Acts: Daring performances in Magical Circus Wonders, highlighted by a knife-throwing act by Lai Ming Quan that kept the audience on edge.
  • Tribute to Legends: A nostalgic homage to 1980s and 1990s stars, including Anita Mui, Aaron Kwok, and Leslie Cheung, with appearances by Bobby Au Yeung and other notable actors.
  • Rhythmic Showcase: A high-energy dance and percussion show titled Dynamic Beats Spectacle that brought the house down.

Grand Finale and Fireworks
The evening concludes with a dazzling fireworks display and a joyful celebration alongside all performers, creating unforgettable memories for attendees and viewers alike.

How to Watch and Subscribe
Don’t miss the Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025 on 28 January 28 at 9:30 PM. Tune in via Astro AEC (Channel 306), Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka. For more information on Astro’s 2025 Chinese New Year campaign, visit xilele2025.com.

Special Subscription Deals

  • Astro One Package: Just RM49.99/month, offering endless entertainment at your fingertips.
  • Astro Fibre Bundle: Upgrade to 500Mbps unlimited internet and the Entertainment package for RM139.99/month.

Subscribe now via My Astro App, astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838 to enhance your streaming experience.