Lifestyle

ARTCONOMICS: Bridging Art and Economics at Universiti Malaya

I was invited to witness the launching of ARTCONOMICS – a groundbreaking collaboration between the Universiti Malaya Economics Society (PEKUMA) and the Universiti Malaya Museum of Asian Art & Art Gallery, which is set to redefine the relationship between art and economics. This thought-provoking exhibition promises a unique experience for all participants, shedding light on the dynamic interplay between these two fields.

ARTCONOMICS Contemporary Art Exhibition runs from 2 June to 2 July 2024, at the Universiti Malaya Art Gallery, offering an insightful journey into the fusion of art and economics. For you information, the exhibition was officiated by Senator Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), on 2 June 2024, at 12:00 PM.

According to the Project Director, Amin Sufian, this contemporary art exhibition is inspired by an article from Senator Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz during his tenure as Minister of Finance in 2021. ARTCONOMICS is more than just an art show. It serves as a visionary platform that aims to establish art as a potent economic mechanism, particularly in the realm of investment. The mission is to delve into the relevance of art in today’s economic landscape and raise awareness among Universiti Malaya students and the Malaysian public about the critical role of art in the economy.

ARTCONOMICS – being the 8th Solo Art Show by Ali Nurazmal Yusoff, one of Malaysia’s top contemporary artists, the exhibition features 43 of his finest works, spanning from the 1990s to the present day. Curated by Zena Khan from AFK Collection and Mohd Umair from the Universiti Malaya Museum of Asian Art & Art Gallery, this showcase is a testament to Ali Nurazmal Yusoff’s artistic evolution and prowess.

In addition to the exhibition, a forum titled “Relevance Between Art & Economics” will facilitate academic and intellectual discussions. This forum aims to explore the critical connections between art and economic theories, providing a platform for knowledge exchange.

Some of the main objectives of ARTCONOMICS is to expose students to the interconnectedness of art and economics, highlighting career opportunities within the art industry. It aims to enhance students’ awareness of the role of artistic expression in the dynamic economic fabric and serves as a reference point for understanding the development and function of art and culture in Malaysia. Moreover, it empowers the analytical and critical thinking capabilities the youth as future leaders.

Popular Malaysian actor, Fadhli Masoot was also present at the event. He said that he is amazed with the talent and creativity of the artist Ali Nurazmal Yusoff. His wife, Suraya is featured in one of Ali’s artworks.

In my opinion, whether you are a student, local or international artist, an art agency, or a member of the public, ARTCONOMICS is an unmissable event that promises to enlighten and inspire.

ARTCONOMICS Contemporary Art Exhibition
Date: 2 June – 2 July 2024
Venue : Universiti Malaya Art Gallery, Main Library (Level 2), Kuala Lumpur

Food & Drink, My Personal

Discover the Ultimate Dim Sum Experience at Lai Ching Yuen with Enhanced Buffet Menus Unveiled

If you’re a fan of authentic Cantonese cuisine and Dim Sum, then you need to visit Lai Ching Yuen at Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur. I recently dined there and was thrilled to discover their newly enhanced Dim Sum Buffet menus. Catering to both weekday indulgence and weekend revelry, these revamped menus embrace the essence of traditional Hong Kong culinary artistry and promise a gastronomic journey through delectable flavors and exquisite craftsmanship.

A Tribute to Hong Kong Dim Sum Culture
The moment I walked into Lai Ching Yuen, I was struck by the elegance of the place. The ambiance is a perfect blend of sophistication and warmth. The extensive selection of Hong Kong-inspired delicacies, meticulously crafted by a team of seasoned chefs led by Executive Chinese Chef Thye Yoon Kong, immediately caught my attention. With over 30 years of experience in Cantonese cuisine, Chef Thye is a true master of his craft, and his specialty is Dim Sum.

Chef Thye Yoon Kong, Executive Chinese Chef at Lai Ching Yuen

The essence of dim sum is handcraftsmanship which requires excellent skills and years of training. We are excited to introduce our enhanced Dim Sum Buffet menus, as we added 20 new dishes to offer our guests a wholesome experience of the Dim Sum culture which I have learned a lot about throughout my career in Cantonese cuisine.

said Chef Thye Yoon Kong, Executive Chinese Chef at Lai Ching Yuen

A Feast for the Senses
The menus feature an array of Hong Kong-inspired Dim Sum creations, from savory classics to innovative reinterpretations of time-honored Cantonese cooking methods. The diverse selection includes appetisers, soups, steamed-to-order delights, fried selections, stir-fried mains, and desserts, each promising a feast for the soul.

Some of the highlights from my visit included Steamed Siew Mai with Fish Roe, Deep-fried Bean Curd Roll with Shrimp (鲜虾腐皮卷), Wok-fried ‘Bei Fong Tong’-style Chicken (避风塘鸡片) , Pan-fried Buns with Salted Fish (香煎咸鱼包) and Steamed Rice Rolls with Shrimp (鲜虾滑肠粉)

To top off the meal, I indulged in the Hot & Sweetened Cream of Red Bean with Tangerine Peel (陈皮红豆沙), a sweet and comforting dessert that provided the perfect ending to a sumptuous feast.

Exciting New Varieties and Specials
In addition to their all-time favorites, Lai Ching Yuen has introduced 20 new dim sum varieties that promise to delight the senses. The Crispy Fish Skin with Salted Egg Yolk (咸蛋脆鱼皮) was an addictive snack with a perfect symphony of crunch and rich flavors. For a heartier option, the Braised Rice with Seafood (海鲜泡饭) was a comforting and satisfying dish.

Weekends and public holidays bring even more excitement with exclusive specials crafted by Chef Kong. The Steamed Siew Mai with Mini Abalone (鲍鱼蒸烧卖) and the Baked Durian Puff (榴莲酥), available in limited quantities, are not to be missed.

Weekday Dim Sum Buffet
Tuesday to Friday, 12noon to 3pm
RM88++ per adult;
RM58++ per child (between 5 to 12 years old) and senior citizen
Weekend & Public Holiday Dim Sum Buffet
Saturday to Sunday, and Public Holidays, 11am to 3pm
RM108++ per adult;
RM78++ per child (between 5 to 12 years old) and senior citizen
Buffet Details

Lai Ching Yuen has truly redefined the dim sum experience. If you’re looking for a culinary journey that showcases the best of Hong Kong Dim Sum culture, I highly recommend visiting Lai Ching Yuen. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

📍Lai Ching Yuen
Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur
160 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
*This is a non-halal restaurant

About Lai Ching Yuen
Lai Ching Yuen is an institution for authentic Cantonese cuisine, making it a go-to destination for those seeking for non-halal specialities in Kuala Lumpur. Guests have the unique opportunity to observe and engage with the chefs as they skillfully prepare dim sum dishes in the open kitchen.

Emphasising the use of the freshest ingredients, the menu is thoughtfully curated to achieve a harmonious balance of flavours, textures and expert cooking techniques. Beyond its renowned dim sum, Lai Ching Yuen presents a range of notable dishes including Mini Buddha Jump Over The Wall, Barbecued Whole Suckling Pig, Baked Iberico Pork Ribs, Wok-fried Lobster ‘Bei Fong Tong’ style, Stewed Spare Ribs with Yam Casserole and Richman Fried Rice with Fresh Scallop, Prawns and Egg White.

Lai Ching Yuen goes beyond offering dining experiences by extending its services to intimate-scale weddings as well, accommodating up to 120 guests. Couples are presented with three meticulously crafted wedding menu options, each designed to cater to a table of 10 guests: Eternal Love at RM2,888++, Double Happiness at RM3,888++, and Together Forever at RM4,888++. Alongside these delectable menus, couples are also treated to a range of complimentary perks as part of their wedding package. These privileges include a one-night stay in the luxurious Bridal Suite, exquisite floral arrangements and featuring a flower backdrop photo wall. Additionally, couples can enjoy a complimentary food tasting session for up to 10 guests, and exclusive use of a private room for their tea ceremony. As a delightful touch, the package also includes a multi-tier wedding cake for the ceremonial cake-cutting moment, among other generous perks.

Photo credit: https://www.millenniumhotels.com/

About Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur
Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur is located in the pulse of the premier shopping address of Bukit Bintang, adjacent to Pavilion Mall and walking proximity to Starhill Gallery and Lot 10. It is nestled in the iconic Golden Triangle with accessibility to business and entertainment districts. The hotel features 468 spacious guestrooms including 16 suites, all-day dining – The Mill Café; authentic Cantonese cuisine – Lai Ching Yuen; and Bistro 160. Hotel recreational facilities includes outdoor resort-style swimming pool, along with fitness centre and The Spa. The hotel also houses a total of 1,500 square metres event space, capable of accommodating any type of events from business meetings, to social celebrations and weddings. For more information, please visit www.grandmillenniumkl.com

Food & Drink

Discovering the Aegean Flavours at Turkish Cuisine Week 2024

From L to R: Chef Ramazan Bingöl, Turkish Celebrity Chef, His Excellency (H.E.) Emir Salim Yüksel, The Ambassador of Türkiye to Kuala Lumpur, Ms Ming Ho, General Manager of Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia, Doreen Heng, Senior Marketing Manager of Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia, & Chef Sylvain Dubreau, Chef Cuisine Instructor at Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia kicking off Turkish Cuisine Week 2024 that happens annually from 21 May to 27 May 2024.

I had the pleasure of attending a remarkable Turkish cooking presentation at Le Cordon Bleu in Kuala Lumpur, organized by the Embassy of Türkiye as part of Turkish Cuisine Week 2024. The event, held on May 10th, featured the renowned Turkish Celebrity Chef Ramazan Bingöl, who introduced us to the rich and vibrant flavors of Aegean cuisine.

Chef Ramazan Bingöl, Turkish Celebrity Chef, demonstrating the preparation of Izmir köfte (spiced lamb meatballs) and Tel kadayif (shredded kadayif dough baked in syrup with crushed nuts) in conjunction with Turkish Cuisine Week 2024.

The experience was nothing short of delightful. Chef Bingöl’s demonstration was both captivating and educational, as he shared the intricate art of preparing traditional Aegean dishes. One highlight was the İzmir köfte, spiced lamb meatballs that were bursting with flavor. We also indulged in Tel kadayif, a delectable dessert made from shredded kadayif dough baked in syrup with crushed nuts. Each dish showcased the region’s emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and sustainable cooking practices.

H.E Emir Salim Yüksel, Ambassador of Türkiye to Kuala Lumpur giving his opening speech at highlighting sustainability as a pillar of Turkish cuisine at the Turkish Cuisine Week event held recently.

H.E. Emir Salim Yüksel, the Ambassador of Türkiye to Kuala Lumpur, opened the event with a speech that shed light on the significance of this year’s focus on Aegean cuisine. He emphasized the importance of sustainability, a key pillar of Turkish culinary tradition, and how the Aegean Mediterranean diet exemplifies a healthy, waste-free approach to cooking. The ambassador’s insights added a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical context behind the food we enjoyed.

(Second from Right) His Excellency (H.E.) Emir Salim Yüksel, Ambassador of Türkiye to Kuala Lumpur, and (Far right) Ms. Ming Ho, General Manager of Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia, enjoying freshly baked Izmir köfte served by (far left) Chef Ramazan Bingöl in conjunction with Turkish Cuisine Week 2024.

The Aegean region of Türkiye is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and culinary heritage. This coastal area is celebrated for its use of fresh vegetables, local herbs, and abundant seafood. It’s also famous for its centuries-old olive trees and the production of high-quality olive oils, which are integral to the local diet and have been linked to long, healthy lives. The ancient olive oil workshop in Klazomenai, dating back 2,600 years, is a testament to the region’s long-standing tradition of olive cultivation.

Chef Bingöl’s presentation was not just about tasting delicious food but also about understanding the essence of Aegean cuisine. He explained how the region’s culinary practices are deeply rooted in sustainability and tradition. The demonstration of brewing traditional Turkish coffee was a perfect conclusion, adding a rich and aromatic touch to the event and highlighting the cultural significance of coffee in Türkiye.

In conjunction with Turkish Cuisine Week, Curate at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur will be hosting a Turkish culinary extravaganza from 21 – 26 May 2024. Esteemed chefs Karabatak and Atacan Uras from Four Seasons Hotel Sultanahmet in Istanbul will present a feast of exquisite Turkish flavors. The menu will feature a variety of dishes, from timeless favorites like kebabs and pilaf to rare delights such as Kuzu Tandir (Turkish Roasted Lamb). This event promises to be a spectacular gastronomic journey, and I can’t wait to experience more of Türkiye’s rich culinary heritage.

For anyone interested in exploring Turkish cuisine, I highly recommend visiting turkishcuisineweek.com for more information on the upcoming events. Turkish Cuisine Week 2024 is a celebration of tradition, sustainability, and the vibrant flavors that make Turkish food truly unique.

About Türkiye
Located in the Mediterranean Sea and connecting the Asian and European continents that are separated by the famous Bosphorus, Türkiye is a unique destination and a hub for cultural interaction. In addition to its perfect climate, Türkiye inspires visitors with its history, nature and gastronomy, all of which reflect the diversity of civilisations from over many centuries. Located at the crossroads of cultures, Türkiye has a distinctive understanding of art and fashion which is the synthesis of tradition and modernity, and its dynamic shopping and entertainment life also attracts visitors from all over the world. For more information about Türkiye please visit: https://www.goturkiye.com/

Lifestyle

Huawei Unveils Watch Fit 3 and MateBook X Pro, Setting a New Standard for Tech Integration in Malaysia

HUAWEI MateBook X Pro (2024) is really lightweight

Today, I had the privilege of attending Huawei’s grand unveiling event here in Malaysia, where they introduced two groundbreaking products that are set to redefine the realm of smart technology.

HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3
First up, they have the sleek HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3, a smartwatch designed with the youthful and trendy consumer in mind. Boasting a stylish square design and an impressive battery life, this watch is not only a fashion statement but also a comprehensive health companion, providing users with advanced health tracking features to enhance their well-being.

HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3

To my findings, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 sets a new standard for smartwatches, seamlessly blending fashion and functionality. Here’s what makes it stand out:

  1. Elegant Design: Crafted with precision, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 boasts a sleek square face and comes in six vibrant colors – Green, White, Pink, Black, White Leather, and Grey Nylon. Each color is paired with a high-quality strap, ensuring a stylish accessory for any occasion.
  2. Advanced Health Features: Huawei’s cutting-edge TruSeen™ 5.5 heart rate monitoring and TruSleep™ 4.0 sleep tracker are integrated into the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3, positioning it at the forefront of health technology. Users can rely on accurate health data to monitor their well-being effectively.
  3. Seamless Connectivity: With its smart features, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 keeps users connected and in control wherever they go. Whether it’s receiving notifications, tracking fitness goals, or managing tasks, this smartwatch ensures uninterrupted connectivity and convenience.

Exciting news! The highly anticipated HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 is now available for pre-order, starting from just RM599. But that’s not all – customers who pre-order before 17 May 2024, will receive a complimentary gift valued at RM89, along with a RM30 early bird voucher. This irresistible offer makes the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 the perfect choice for anyone eager to elevate their wearable technology experience. You won’t want to miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be among the first to own this cutting-edge smartwatch!

HUAWEI MateBook X Pro (2024)
In alignment with the groundbreaking HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3, the HUAWEI MateBook X Pro (2024) redefines the benchmark for ultrathin laptops, offering users unparalleled performance within a refined chassis:

  1. Ultra-Slim and Lightweight Design: Engineered with precision, including the innovative HUAWEI Cloud Falcon Architecture, the HUAWEI MateBook X Pro (2024) boasts one of the slimmest and lightest bodies in its category. This makes it the ultimate companion for professionals on the go, without compromising on screen real estate.
  2. Immersive Display Technology: Featuring a 14.2-inch LTPS touchscreen with a remarkable 3K resolution and an impressive 90% screen-to-body ratio, the MateBook X Pro delivers a captivating visual experience. With full support for 100% sRGB color gamut, users can expect vibrant and accurate colors. Additionally, the edge-to-edge display is complemented by an anti-reflective coating, ensuring reduced eye strain during prolonged usage.
  3. Powerful Processing Capabilities: Equipped with the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor, the MateBook X Pro excels in performance, offering exceptional speed and responsiveness. From demanding graphic design tasks to high-speed data processing, this laptop handles it all with ease, empowering users to tackle any workload efficiently.
HUAWEI MateBook X Pro (2024)

The HUAWEI MateBook X Pro (2024) is engineered with an innovative cooling system, featuring Huawei’s Shark Fin Fan 3.0 design. This system utilizes dual fans to optimize airflow and cooling efficiency, ensuring sustained peak performance without the risk of overheating.

Moreover, it offers a seamless smart experience through Huawei Share and Multi-screen Collaboration. This integration enables effortless interaction with other Huawei devices, allowing users to project their smartphone screen onto the laptop, transfer files between devices seamlessly, and even utilize smartphone apps directly on the laptop. This not only enhances productivity but also facilitates enhanced connectivity.

Priced starting from RM8,999, the HUAWEI MateBook X Pro (2024) is now available for pre-order from 14 May until 24 May 2024. You can secure their MateBook X Pro (2024) through HUAWEI’s Official Website, HUAWEI Experience Stores, and authorized retailers. During the pre-order period, you stand a chance to receive a free gift worth up to RM4,582, adding further value to early adopters of this sleek new laptop.

Drawn with GoPaint

GoPaint App
During the launch event, Huawei made a significant announcement by introducing its first-ever in-house developed painting app, the GoPaint app. This app aims to elevate the creative experience for users of all levels. Developed in collaboration with leading fine arts experts, GoPaint boasts vibrant and lifelike writing and painting effects. With over 100 unique virtual brushes and groundbreaking realistic textures, users can enjoy an authentic and natural painting canvas. When utilized on Huawei’s high-performance tablets, GoPaint transforms into a genuine, professional-grade, user-friendly painting application, catering to both casual artists and seasoned professionals.

HUAWEI WATCH GT4 41mm & HUAWEI FreeClip
In addition to GoPaint, Huawei unveiled the pioneering product for its Fashion Forward direction, the HUAWEI WATCH GT4 41mm. Priced at RM1,099 in the green colorway, it exudes a blend of springtime and French elegance. Furthermore, the launch also introduced the HUAWEI FreeClip in a chic new Beige edition, priced at only RM899. These products exemplify Huawei’s commitment to enriching its smart ecosystem with both functional and aesthetic upgrades, perfectly tailored for the modern user.

Availability and Offers
All of these exciting products will soon be available to customers in Malaysia! To place your pre-orders or to find out more on the products, visit:

HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3
● Huawei Official Website
● Huawei Official Store on Shopee
● Huawei Flagship Store on Lazada
HUAWEI MateBook X Pro (2024)
● Huawei Official Website
● Huawei Official Store on Shopee
● Huawei Flagship Store on Lazada
HUAWEI WATCH GT 4
(41mm in Green)

● Huawei Official Website
● Huawei Official Store on Shopee
● Huawei Flagship Store on Lazada
HUAWEI FreeClip
(Beige Edition)
● Huawei Official Website
● Huawei Official Store on Shopee
● Huawei Flagship Store on Lazada

In addition, you may also have a first-hand look on selected products by visiting their nearest HUAWE Experience Store and Senheng Stores!

HUAWEI FreeClip (Beige edition)

About HUAWEI Consumer Business Group (CBG) Malaysia
Huawei’s products and services are available in more than 170 countries and are used by a third of the world’s population. Fourteen R&D centres have been set up in countries around the world, including Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and China. Huawei Device BG is one of Huawei’s three business units and covers smartphones, PC and tablets, wearables and cloud services, etc. Huawei’s global network is built on over 30 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the world.

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!