Travel

Exploring Seremban: A Relaxing Getaway and Hidden Gems

I have always wanted to travel around Seremban, a town about 65km away from Kuala Lumpur. It takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from my place to Seremban city. In this blog post, I’ll take you through my recent two-night stay in Seremban, highlighting not only the charming town but also the hidden gems that make it a must-visit.

Discovering Seremban’s Hidden Gems
1️⃣ Lorong Seni Seremban
Kick off your Seremban adventure at Lorong Seni Seremban, a picturesque spot adorned with captivating murals. This vibrant lane is not only a feast for the eyes but also an Insta-worthy backdrop for memorable photos. Immerse yourself in the artistic charm that this hidden gem has to offer.

2️⃣ Muzium Negeri Sembilan
For history enthusiasts, Muzium Negeri Sembilan provides a fascinating journey into the region’s past. Explore the exhibits and gain insights into the rich heritage of Negeri Sembilan. This museum is a compelling opportunity to connect with the cultural roots of the area.

3️⃣ Galeri Diraja Tuanku Ja’afar
Step into the life of Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Ja’afar at Galeri Diraja Tuanku Ja’afar. This three-story edifice showcases personal collections and narratives, providing an immersive glimpse into the legacy of royalty in the region.

4️⃣ Rumah Gadang Budi
Venture to Kuala Klawang, Jelebu, and explore Rumah Gadang Budi. This architectural gem, boasting exquisite traditional Minangkabau design, offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural richness of Seremban.

A Comfortable Stay at Royale Chulan Seremban
Nestled in the heart of Seremban town, Royale Chulan Seremban is a 4-star hotel that became my home away from home during this trip. The hotel offers a range of facilities and amenities, including a swimming pool, gym, restaurants, cafe, bath tub, iron & ironing board, complimentary parking, and more.

Executive Club Lounge

As an introvert, I found my perfect lepak (relaxing) spot in the Executive Club Lounge. Exclusive to guests staying in Executive Rooms and Suites, this quiet retreat on the 10th floor is accessible to all Executive room types. With operating hours from 7:30 am to 11 pm, it provides a serene environment for both breakfast (8-10:30 am) and evening cocktails (6-8 pm).

Culinary Delights at Han Pi Yuen
During my stay, I had the pleasure of dining at Han Pi Yuen, the Chinese restaurant located at the Mezzanine level. Chef Danniel Chong Xing Yaw and his team prepared a delightful meal, with the salted egg fresh squid being a standout dish. The restaurant offers seven private rooms, making it an ideal venue for corporate events, family functions, and even wedding receptions for up to 250 guests.

Operation hours:
Tuesday to Sunday
12 pm – 2:30 pm (lunch)
6:30 pm – 10 pm (dinner)

For more information about Royale Chulan Seremban, visit their website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Food & Drink

Richiamo Coffee: Budget-Friendly Premium Coffee & Malay Delicacies!

Discovering Richiamo Coffee’s Chic Ambience
As I stepped into the Gurney Mall UTMKL branch, I was immediately captivated by the chic black and white theme that defines Richiamo Coffee’s identity. The décor exuded a classy yet inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a casual hangout, lepak with friends or a hearty meal with family members.

Premium Coffee and Malay Traditions
Being a coffee enthusiast, I couldn’t wait to dive into Richiamo Coffee’s extensive menu. The café takes pride in offering premium coffee varieties, and my taste buds were treated to the rich flavors of their signature Iced Americano and Ice Blended Classy Dark Chocolate. Each sip was a delightful journey into the world of quality coffee and chocolate. I’m glad that I can get the best of both worlds here. Of course, they offer a wide selection of other drinks like Caramello Cappuccino, Salted Caramello Cappuccino, Macha Latte, Teh Tarik Premium, Mango Peach Tea, Fresh Lemon Tea and many more!

What sets Richiamo Coffee apart is its commitment to preserving Malay culinary traditions. I indulged in the Nasi Ikan Patin Masak Tempoyak, each bite a harmonious blend of spices and authentic flavours. The menu, as diverse as Malaysia itself, also features tempting options like Nasi Daging Salai Asap, Nasi Itik Salai Asap, Nasi Siput Sedut Asap, and Nasi Ayam Kari.

Besides that, my wife had her appetite filled with Spaghetti Salted Egg Prawn. Other options available are Spaghetti Beef Bolognese, Spaghetti Chicken Bolognese, Spaghetti Cabonara and Spaghetti Aglio Olio.

Budget-friendly Price
To my surprise, this hidden gem stands out not just for its stylish setting and a diverse menu featuring premium coffee and authentic Malay dishes but also for its incredibly affordable prices. Going through the menu at Richiamo Coffee, most of the dishes here cost less than RM20 while drinks costs less than RM10 on average.

Satisfying the Sweet Tooth
As a dessert lover, no meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Richiamo Coffee has that covered too. I couldn’t resist trying their delectable pastries, including the Chocolate Mint Cake and Tiramisu Donut. The flavours were a symphony of sweetness that perfectly complemented the aromatic coffee, perfect combo!

Fret not. There are many other desserts and pastries options to choose from like Salted Caramel Macadamia Cheesecake, Apple Crumble Cheesecake, Cempedak Cheesecake, Blue Velvet Cake, Red Velvet Cake, Oreo Donut, Strawberry Donut, muffins, croissants and puffs.

A Comfortable Retreat
This outlet that I went to is situated conveniently at the heart of Kuala Lumpur, in Gurney Mall UTMKL (also known as Residensi UTMKL). Richiamo Coffee has over 100 outlets nationwide, and offers a comfortable retreat for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking a quick coffee fix, a leisurely meal with friends, or a family gathering, the café’s welcoming ambience makes it an ideal place for food and joy.

A Foodie’s Paradise at Richiamo Coffee
My dining experience at Richiamo Coffee was nothing short of delightful. From the chic décor and warm hospitality to the diverse menu that caters to various palates, this café is definitely one I would return for more. If you’re a food enthusiast like me, don’t miss out on the chance to experience the perfect blend of premium coffee and traditional Malay flavours at Richiamo Coffee. It’s not just a meal; it’s a memorable dining adventure!

📍 Location:
Richiamo Coffee UTMKL,
Gurney Mall (Residensi UTMKL), Jalan Maktab, 54000 Kuala Lumpur

For more information:
Website: https://richiamocoffee.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RichiamoCoffee
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richiamocoffee

Food & Drink, Lifestyle

WonderMeat Unleashed: GoodMorning Global Revolutionizes Malaysia’s Culinary Landscape

In a groundbreaking move that promises to reshape Malaysia’s food industry, GoodMorning Global Group Holdings Berhad has officially launched WonderMeat, Malaysia’s first dry-mix complete nutrition plant based meat. This innovative product is set to meet the surging global demand for plant-based food alternatives while making waves locally for its induction into the prestigious Malaysian Book of Records.

I have tried this product myself during the event and to my surprise, I couldn’t really tell that it’s plant-based meat. The texture and taste feels like real meat, to be honest.

WonderMeat’s Spectacular Debut in Malaysia
At the Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur, the launch ceremony witnessed the unveiling of WonderMeat, a powdered plant-based meat that has already garnered attention for its unique approach to meeting dietary needs sustainably. Kluang Member of Parliament Wong Shu Qi, the esteemed guest of honour, praised GoodMorning Global for their remarkable achievements in the realm of food biotechnology.

Dato’ Dr. Lim Sin Boon
Founder & Group Executive Chairman of GoodMorning Global Group Holdings Berhad

During the event, Dato’ Dr Lim Sin Boon, Executive Chairman, and Founder of GoodMorning Global expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “WonderMeat isn’t just a food product; it’s a leap towards a sustainable future.” This sentiment underscores the company’s commitment to using food technology to enhance lives while delivering delicious, affordable culinary experiences that prioritize balanced nutrition.

WonderMeat: A Culinary Revolution
For your info, WonderMeat is more than a plant-based alternative; it’s a culinary revolution. Designed to replicate the taste and texture of animal meat, this product not only expands options for vegetarians and vegans but also transforms the meat industry itself. The powdered form offers advantages such as streamlined transportation, extended shelf life, reduced costs, and a diminished carbon footprint – marking a significant stride toward sustainable living.

Primarily composed of soya and pea, WonderMeat is a rich source of dietary fiber and protein. Additionally, it is fortified with CaHMB and boasts 28 types of vitamins and minerals, ensuring a complete and balanced nutritional profile in every serving.

✅ Trans Fat Free
✅ Cholesterol Free
✅ No Preservatives
✅ High in Protein
✅ High in Dietary Fiber
✅ No Garlic and Onion

Dr. Charles Cheng Fang Chin
Group Chief Executive Officer cum Chief Financial Officer of GoodMorning Global Group Holdings Berhad

Global Recognition and Earlier Achievements
The introduction of WonderMeat follows a string of notable achievements by GoodMorning Global. In July, the company secured RM20 million (US$ 4.4 million) from 1,046 investors in an equity crowdfunding campaign, propelling their biotechnology and food technology research into new frontiers. In March, their plant-based nutrition beverage, GSure, received approval from the Sultanate of Oman’s Centre for Food Safety and Quality.

GoodMorning RAHMAH
Good news to fellow Malaysians! GoodMorning Global also introduces several GoodMorning Rahmah packages that aims to encourage more people to practice healthy diet and balanced nutrition. They offer discounts up to 54% off! Check out the packages here: https://www.goodmorning.com.my/shop/pakejrahmah

Looking Ahead: WonderMeat and the Future of Food
As GoodMorning Global continues to push the boundaries of food technology, the WonderMeat launch signifies a pivotal moment in the journey towards a more sustainable and healthier future. The company’s dedication to transforming the food industry, evident in their flagship product GoodMorning VPlus 18 Grains, showcases their belief that ‘nutritious can be delicious.’

About GoodMorning Global
Established in 2008, GoodMorning Global is a food tech and multigrain company committed to transforming the food industry. By leveraging biotechnology, they aim to provide sustainable, healthy, and innovative plant-based food solutions that resonate with the evolving needs of consumers worldwide. Join them on this exciting journey toward a more flavorful and sustainable culinary experience.

Website: https://www.goodmorning.com.my/

Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

AstraZeneca Pioneers Equitable Healthcare and Digital Transformation with ‘mySihatPal’ Health Portal

AstraZeneca, a leading global biopharmaceutical company, in collaboration with prominent healthcare organizations, has unveiled a groundbreaking digital health platform called ‘mySihatPal.’ This initiative is poised to revolutionize access to healthcare services and information.

The esteemed healthcare societies partnering in this endeavor include Asthma Malaysia (AM), Bayi Pramatang Malaysia (BPM), Breast Cancer Welfare Association Malaysia (BCWA), Malaysian Congenital Heart Foundation (YJKM), Malaysian Endocrine & Metabolic Society (MEMS), Malaysian Family Medicine Specialists’ Association (FMSA), Persatuan SLE Malaysia (PSLEM), The Malaysian Society of Gastroenterology & Hepatology (MSGH), and the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA).

mySihatPal represents a unique and comprehensive digital health hub, offering the public direct access to a diverse spectrum of services. These services encompass vital health information, wellness resources, connections to healthcare professionals, access to private hospitals, primary care clinics, government healthcare facilities, and virtual consultations with healthcare experts and pharmacists. This transformative platform aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of their location, can achieve their highest level of health.

The global demand for healthcare advancement underscores the necessity of bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers through digital means. Physical proximity has been a significant barrier to healthcare access, necessitating the creation of a central portal connecting individuals with healthcare experts who can provide relevant advice.

The mySihatPal portal expertly addresses this need by serving as a gateway to a vast network of medical professionals, healthcare organizations, and facilities. It also facilitates referrals to allied healthcare providers, ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare services.

Vinod Narayanan, Country President of AstraZeneca, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “AstraZeneca’s mission is to collaborate with like-minded industry partners to pioneer innovative approaches, solutions, and technologies that promote equitable healthcare in Malaysia and foster digital transformation. Globally, healthcare digitalization is reshaping the delivery of healthcare services, ushering in a new era in patient care and ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.”

As a global biopharmaceutical leader, we aim to support this transformation by offering healthcare solutions that extend beyond traditional medications, catering to patient needs and nurturing innovation in digital health. The introduction of a universal digital healthcare platform like mySihatPal allows the public to access valuable resources and connect with healthcare professionals, ultimately enhancing health awareness and delivering improved patient outcomes.

added Vinod Narayanan, Country President of AstraZeneca

A distinctive feature of mySihatPal is its commitment to enhancing health literacy among users, presenting disease-related information in an understandable and user-friendly interface. Furthermore, users can conduct preliminary self-assessments of their health conditions using evaluation tools before connecting with suitable healthcare professionals through an online directory for personalized treatment.

Asthma Malaysia supports the development of a comprehensive digital health portal, providing a trustworthy platform for the public to access healthcare information and directly engage with a panel of healthcare experts. This rapid access to healthcare consultations and medications significantly reduces the time between symptom onset and medical intervention, benefiting society at large through increased healthcare awareness.

said Dr. Haji Helmy Haja Mydin, Co-Founder of Asthma Malaysia

In addition to improving healthcare accessibility, mySihatPal has plans to introduce a new user interface focusing on well-being, featuring videos and articles authored by medical professionals on various health topics.

With the myriad benefits it offers, AstraZeneca is eager to expand the network of healthcare partners on mySihatPal, inviting organizations with shared objectives to join the coalition and contribute to advancing equitable healthcare while bridging gaps in healthcare access.

The mySihatPal platform is now live and accessible to everyone at https://mysihatpal.com.my/

About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq: AZN) is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. Please visit astrazeneca.com and follow the Company on Twitter @AstraZeneca

Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

With World Osteoporosis Day approaching, Anlene Malaysia remains committed to promoting bone health and education

Anlene has been Malaysia’s No.1 Adult Milk Powder, a pioneering force in advocating bone, joint, and muscle health for over 30 years! It has been a popular household brand of milk powder for adults among Malaysians including my own.

Since May 2022, Anlene Malaysia has unveiled an eye-opening revelation through its Anlene Mobility Check, an ultrasound bone scan and muscle strength test and has assessed over 20,000 Malaysians to date. The screening found 50% of Malaysian adults are at risk of poor bone health, which can potentially lead to bone diseases such as osteoporosis that may affect one’s mobility. 

Shockingly, the screening results further revealed that weak muscle strength is prevalent in 1 out of every 3 Malaysian adults. This free screening was carried out through a series of roadshows starting in May 2022 and is open to adults 19 years old and above, aimed at assessing their bone and muscle.

Result from the mobility check highlights a concerning trend of low awareness among Malaysians towards the significance of bone health, emphasizing the pressing need to tackle mobility-related risks in our nation. At Anlene, we firmly believe that promoting preventive measures against osteoporosis can significantly reduce its prevalence within our population. Our goal is to enable individuals to proactively embrace the vitality of their bones, joints, and muscles and to keep them in good condition to stay active as long as they can.

according to Ganesh Thiagarajan, General Manager of Fonterra Brands Malaysia & Singapore

In conjunction with World Osteoporosis Day 2023, Anlene Malaysia reaffirms its steadfast commitment to promoting robust bone health awareness and education among Malaysians. To empower individuals with a deeper understanding of their bone health and encourage proactive care, Anlene Malaysia joined forces with its retail partner, AEON and its healthcare partner, Columbia Asia Hospital Puchong.

This exclusive partnership will manifest through a far-reaching initiative, which the Anlene Mobility Check roadshow will be carried out at various AEON outlets nationwide & Columbia Asia Hospital Puchong throughout the month of October. This roadshow will offer the public access to complimentary ultrasound bone scan and muscle strength testing services, providing Malaysians valuable insights into the condition of their bone health status and muscle strength. Check out the schedule here: https://www.anlene.com/my/en/anlene-move-check.html

The prevalence of osteoporosis is projected to be higher in Asia due to its rapidly aging population, and Malaysia is no exception. Alarmingly, Malaysia is projected to have the highest increase in total number of hip fracture by 2050. This is a direct consequence of osteoporosis, a condition caused by weakened bones that are more prone to fractures, particularly in the hip area. To maintain strong and healthy bones, the body naturally undergoes a constant process known as bone remodelling, where old bones are replaced with new bone tissues. This process occurs throughout our lives. However, with aging, this process can become less efficient, and bone mays start to deteriorate from as early as 30s. Women in the menopausal transitional period may experience rapid bone loss, where up to 20% of bone density may be lost. Fortunately, bone relates diseases such as osteoporosis is preventable. Therefore, starting to care for your bone health from a young age is paramount. By taking proactive steps to strengthen our bones today, we can secure more healthier and resilient future.

said Dr Paisal Bin Hussin, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Columbia Asia Hospital Puchong

Taking care of our bones, joints, and muscles begins with lifestyle choices that require both regular exercise as well as a balanced diet. Engaging in regular exercise not only promotes strong bones but also strengthens the muscles that support them. Pairing this with a balanced diet that is rich in calcium, vitamin D, protein, and other crucial nutrients is equally important. Anlene’s formulation have been designed to support bone strength when included in a balanced diet and active lifestyle.

said Liew Yen Lee, Fonterra Brands Malaysia Assistant Nutrition Manager

For your information, Anlene™ GOLD 5X™ is scientifically formulated with key nutrients that are important to support adults’ nutritional needs. Each glass comes with 100%** calcium & vitamin D, high protein, collagen, MFGM ActiveTM, 17 vitamins & minerals. Also a study has shown that consuming 2 glasses of fortified milk daily containing essential nutrients such as calcium, Vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc can help reduce bone breakdown within 4 weeks. Additionally, another study highlighted that incorporating MFGM into one’s diet, with regular exercise, can help improve muscle strength after 4 weeks. Basically, from my understanding, we can have stronger bones by practicing active lifestyle, balanced diet plus two glasses of Anlene™ GOLD 5X™!

Quickly go get your bone health status scan and muscle strength test for FREE at the Anlene Mobility Check roadshow, which runs throughout the month of October at various AEON outlets and Columbia Asia Hospital Puchong. More info here: https://www.anlene.com/my/en/anlene-move-check.html

FB: https://www.facebook.com/AnleneMalaysia/

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About Fonterra
Fonterra is a global dairy nutrition company owned by 10,000 farmers and their families. They built their expertise on the legacy of the thousands of farmers who’ve made New Zealand a world leader in dairy.  With a can-do attitude and a collaborative spirit, they are a world leading dairy exporter. Their 22,000 people share the goodness of dairy nutrition with the world through their innovative consumer, foodservice and ingredient solutions brands, and their farming and processing operations across four continents.

Fonterra Brands Malaysia began its operations in 1975 in Shah Alam, Selangor. Today it has two manufacturing plants, Susumas and Dairymas and a total of 700 workers dedicated to bringing the best in dairy nutrition to Malaysians. All dairy products manufactured and produced by Fonterra Brands Malaysia are certified Halal by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).

Fonterra Brands Malaysia also adheres to international and local industry standards and achieved the FSSC22000, Veterinary Health Mark and GMP certificates. Fonterra in Malaysia is known for its leading brands Anlene, Anmum Materna, Anmum Lacta, Anmum Essential, Fernleaf, CalciYum, Chesdale and under its foodservices division, Anchor Food Professionals, it is known for Anchor, Mainland and Perfect Italiano.