Food & Drink

Classic Cantonese Dining Guide at Concorde Hotel KL Xin Cuisine

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I recently dropped by Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant, and I have to say, the dishes here really bring out the heart of Cantonese dining. With Master Chinese Chef Foong Ah Kwai leading the kitchen, the restaurant is unveiling a line-up of classic signature dishes that celebrate tradition while keeping familiar flavours alive.

Chef Foong isn’t new to this – he has over 50 years of experience in Cantonese cooking, and his approach has always been about comfort, nostalgia, and authenticity. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and time-honoured techniques, giving you that warm, home-style touch while still offering a refined dining experience.

Here are some of the highlights:

Signature Roasted Goose (RM420 whole / RM230 half)
A delicacy from Guangdong, the goose is marinated in soy sauce, herbs, and spices, then slow-roasted until the skin is perfectly crisp and the meat tender. Served every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (weekday orders require three days’ advance notice).

Pork Tripe with Whole Farm Chicken (RM250 nett)
This traditional soup takes a full six hours to prepare. Pork tripe is stuffed with a whole farm chicken, then simmered together with stewing hen, chicken feet, ginkgo, yuzhu, shallots, and pepper. The result is a collagen-rich broth with a peppery depth that showcases true Cantonese craftsmanship.

Honey Glazed Iberico Pork Ribs (RM172 nett)
Premium Iberico pork ribs from Spain are steamed for tenderness, baked for caramelisation, and finished with a glossy honey glaze. Sweet, savoury, and absolutely indulgent.

Golden Beancurd with Abalone and Sea Cucumber (RM52 nett per head)
Homemade beancurd, steamed and pan-fried until golden, is paired with braised abalone and sea cucumber. It’s a humble ingredient elevated into a dish of luxury.

Wok-fried Flat Rice Noodles with Fresh Water Prawn & Scallop (RM85 nett)
A comforting classic elevated with premium seafood. Stir-fried noodles in velvety egg gravy, topped with prawns and scallops, make this one of Xin Cuisine’s most-loved dishes.

These new signature dishes are a testament to Chef Foong’s decades of mastery, combining premium ingredients with the soul of Cantonese tradition. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a business lunch, or a special celebration, Xin Cuisine’s menu offers something truly memorable.

For reservations, call 03-2149 2778.

Food & Drink

Concorde Hotel KL Mooncakes 2025 Mid-Autumn Harmony Collection

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I’ve already tried some of Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s mooncakes this year, and I must say, they’ve really impressed me. So, I thought I’d share their latest Mid-Autumn collection with you all – perfect if you’re still deciding on what to get for the festival.

This year, Concorde presents Mid-Autumn Harmony, a collection of mooncakes presented in two exclusive lacquer gift box designs: The Elegant Four and Four Seasons Bloom. Each box is more than just packaging – it’s a beautiful keepsake that reflects tradition, artistry, and culture.

Handcrafted with layers of vibrant high-gloss lacquer and adorned with delicate floral motifs, the boxes are designed to be reused as organisers for jewellery, accessories, or festive treats. They look elegant on display and make for meaningful gifts.

The Elegant Four pays tribute to noble virtues through four symbolic blooms: plum blossom (wisdom), orchid (grace), bamboo (integrity), and chrysanthemum (tranquillity). Meanwhile, Four Seasons Bloom captures the beauty of nature across the year – spring orchid, summer lotus, autumn chrysanthemum, and winter plum blossom.

Of course, it’s not just about the looks – the mooncakes themselves are equally enticing. Concorde’s selection is halal-certified and ranges from timeless classics to modern indulgences. Expect favourites like Lotus Paste with Single Yolk and Red Bean, as well as snowskin creations such as Longan Wolfberry and the ever-popular Musang King Durian.

Here’s a quick look at the gift sets:

Set A – Baked SkinSet B – Baked Skin
Pure Lotus Double Yolk
Golden Pandan Pure Lotus
Pure Lotus
Japanese Red Bean		Pure Lotus Single Yolk
Assorted Fruit Nuts
Black Sesame Lotus
Japanese Red Bean
Set C – Snowskin *Set D – RM188 nett per set (inclusive of cooler bag)
Snowskin with Lotus Paste Single Yolk
Snowskin with Yam Paste Single Yolk 
Snowskin with Longan Wolfberry
Snowskin with Japanese Red Bean		Snowskin with Musang King Durian
  • RM160 nett per set (4 x 180gm mooncakes) with baked skin or snowskin varieties.
  • RM188 nett per set (Snowskin Musang King Durian, comes with a cooler bag).

If you’re planning to buy in bulk, corporate gifting, or simply want to treat your loved ones, Concorde has options for every palate. You can find them at:

  • Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur (Lobby) – 11 Aug to 6 Oct 2025, 10am–8pm
  • Mid Valley Megamall (North Court, Ground Floor) – 18 Sep to 6 Oct 2025, 10am–10pm

Special offers include:

  • 20% discount for CIMB, HLB, MBB, PB, RHB, SCB, UOB cardholders
  • Bulk purchase price at RM123 nett per set for 50 boxes and above
    (*Note: Discounts not applicable for Musang King Durian set)

The best part? You can also have the mooncakes delivered straight to your doorstep. Just call or WhatsApp 012-399 5021 or email fbkl@concorde.net for orders and delivery arrangements.

Whether you’re looking for a gift that impresses or simply want to indulge, Concorde’s Mid-Autumn Harmony collection is definitely worth checking out this season.

Entertainment

Astro’s ‘Inilah KITA, Sehati Bersama’ Campaign – A Heartwarming Celebration of Malaysian Unity

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Hey guys! Just got back from checking out Astro’s new ‘Inilah KITA, Sehati Bersama’ campaign press conference this afternoon, and I’ve got to say – it’s one of the most meaningful and feel-good celebrations I’ve seen in a while. In conjunction with National Day and Malaysia Day, Astro is going all out from 15 August to 16 September 2025 with a campaign that reminds us of what makes Malaysia truly special — our unity in diversity.

So, what’s going on?

1. KITA Channel (CH100) is Live!
If you’re like me and love local content, you’ll want to park yourself at Channel 100. Astro has launched this special KITA Channel, which will be running until 17 September 2025, featuring more than 50 Malaysian-made programmes – from films and dramas to reality shows and documentaries.

    Some of the titles to look out for? Kita Bukan Data, Mariam Meenachi, Rombengan, Wasiat Ayah, and Daddy Naik Sheikh. You’ll spot familiar names like Nabila Huda, Que Haidar, Faizal Hussein, MK K-Clique and many more. There are also exclusive concerts like Slam X Exist: Our Journey and Konsert Hael Husaini & The Repertoire.

    Everything’s available on Astro CH 100, On Demand, sooka, and NJOI too — no excuse to miss it!

    2. Hello Inilah KITA Event
    If you’re into live events, block your weekend on 23 & 24 August 2025 because Hello Inilah KITA is happening! Expect a fun mix of music, cultural performances, and local celebrities like Mira Filzah, Hun Haqeem, Ayda Jebat, Uriah, Nicole Lai, and more. It’s all about celebrating our local talents and the beautiful melting pot that is Malaysia.

    3. KITA FM is Hitting the Road
    Radio fans — this one’s for you. On 31 August 2025, KITA FM will go live from Putrajaya, featuring a collab between all your fav DJs from Astro’s stations like ERA, Sinar, MY FM, HITZ, RAAGA, plus RTM’s stations too!

    But that’s not all — the KITA FM crew will be touring 13 states starting 1 September 2025, ending the journey in Penang on 16 September 2025 with a special Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour. They’re even aiming to set a new record in the Malaysia Book of Records, so you’ll want to be part of this nationwide celebration.

    4. Unity Stories That’ll Touch Your Heart
    Astro is also releasing three short documentaries under the Unity Stories of Inilah KITA series, showing real-life examples of how Malaysians come together despite our differences.

    Here are the ones I watched:

    • Famili Ikat Tepi – A century-old kopitiam that’s more than just good food — it’s where the community bonds.
    • Tempat Letak Harmoni – A mosque and church in Sarawak share a parking space peacefully. Love this.
    • Seni Berkawan – Three artists from different backgrounds create art together, sharing stories, culture, and laughs along the way.

    These short films are up on Astro Malaysia’s YouTube channel, and trust me, they’re worth watching with your family.

    5. New Anthem: Bangkit Malaysia
    There’s also a brand-new theme song called Bangkit Malaysia, performed by none other than Hael Husaini. Uplifting and patriotic – perfect for your National Day playlist. Keep an eye out as it’ll be available on all streaming platforms soon!

    One of the standout moments during the press conference was when Nadeera took the stage and delivered a soulful performance of her song ‘Cham’. Her vocals were powerful and full of emotion — and the lyrics really hit home for many of us in the audience. It was one of those performances that gave everyone goosebumps and reminded us how music can bring people together.

    6. Something Fun Coming in October – KITA Run!
    If you’re planning ahead, the KITA Run is happening on 25 October 2025 at Serenia City Central Park, Nilai. There’ll be 5KM and 10KM runs, a family-friendly carnival, and a concert to end the day with good vibes. It’s a great excuse to get active and celebrate with fellow Malaysians. Stay tuned for updates!

    So if you’re in the mood to get into the patriotic spirit this Merdeka and Malaysia Day, Astro’s ‘Inilah KITA, Sehati Bersama’ campaign is definitely worth checking out — whether you prefer watching at home or joining in the fun on-ground.

    Let’s celebrate what makes us Malaysian — together.

    Subscribe to Astro One Packs from only RM49.99/month. Easy streaming, endless entertainment for your whole family.  Level up your streaming experience by adding Astro Fibre’s 500Mbps together with the Entertainment Pack for just RM139.99/month. To subscribe or upgrade to Astro One, visit http://www.astro.com.my or WhatsApp 03 9543 3838.

    For more information on the ‘Inilah KITA, Sehati Bersama’ campaign, visit http://www.astro.com.my/InilahKITA.

    Lifestyle, Misc

    Malaysia Declares 15 September 2025 as Public Holiday — Enjoy a 4-Day Long Weekend!

    dixonthum

    Guys! As we already know, our Prime Minister announced that Monday, 15 September 2025, will be a public holiday for all Malaysians! That’s right — a long weekend is officially on the cards, and it’s all in conjunction with Malaysia Day, which falls on Tuesday, 16 September 2025.

    As someone who juggles work and short getaways, I think this bonus holiday is a great opportunity to take a breather or plan something fun with family or friends. Whether you’re heading back to your hometown, exploring a new café, or just enjoying a well-deserved nap at home, this announcement definitely comes as good news.

    So why was 15 September 2025 made a public holiday?
    According to PM Anwar Ibrahim, it’s all about giving Malaysians extra time to reflect on the country’s unity and journey since its formation. Symbolically, it adds weight to Malaysia Day celebrations, making it a true moment of togetherness and national pride.

    And yes, the implementation of the additional holiday is subject to provisions under Section 60D(1) of the Employment Act 1955 (Act 265) for Peninsular Malaysia and the Federal Territory of Labuan; the Sabah Labour Ordinance (Chapter 67), the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (Chapter 76) and the Holidays Act 1951 (Act 369) as the basis for the announcement of the official additional holiday by the government.

    Here’s what employers and employees need to know:

    • If your company already assigned 11 paid public holidays for 2025, this 15 Sept holiday still counts as an extra mandatory day off.
    • Employers can:
      1. Give the day off with full pay,
      2. Ask employees to work, but pay them double (2x daily wage) and triple (3x hourly rate for OT hours),
      3. Replace the holiday with another paid day off.
    • If you’re working on that day, make sure you check your payroll — the Employment Act ensures proper compensation, including overtime rates if applicable.

    For employers, especially those in F&B, healthcare, logistics, or retail, you might want to start adjusting your shift planning and payroll settings now. Even the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has urged the government to gazette the holiday early, so businesses can prepare.

    From a practical point of view, this bonus holiday is perfect for planning a gathering with loved ones, exploring local attractions, or finally going on that short getaway you’ve always had in mind.

    So, mark your calendars:
    📅 13 Sept (Saturday)
    📅 14 Sept (Sunday)
    📅 15 Sept (Monday – Public Holiday)
    📅 16 Sept (Tuesday – Malaysia Day)

    4 days of freedom.
    You’re welcome.

    So, what do you plan to do during the long weekend?

    Lifestyle, Travel

    Ascott Star Rewards Festival 2025 at MYTOWNKL – Hotel Deals, Live Music & Freebies!

    dixonthum

    I attended the launch of the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) Festival 2025 at MyTOWN Shopping Centre and honestly, it’s one of the more fun events I’ve been to lately. Happening from 24 to 27 July 2025, this 4-day festival runs daily from 10AM to 9:30PM and brings together a bit of everything — music, games, rewards, travel deals, and some pretty cool collabs.

    Organised by Ascott Malaysia, the whole setup feels like a mix of lifestyle carnival and travel expo, but with a more relaxed vibe. You’ll see familiar names like CIMB, ShopBack, Jaecoo by Weststar, ASTRO Rocketfuel, and SONY Music Malaysia taking part.

    Who is the Next Star of SONY Music?
    One of the highlights is the SONY Music Karaoke Competition on Saturday (26th) and Sunday (27th). This one’s for aspiring singers — the winner gets to record one song in duet with a SONY Music artiste. Pretty epic chance if you’ve always dreamt of going pro! And even if you’re not singing, just hang around — there are live performances by Naqiu, Wany Hasrita, Kidd Santhe, Vanessa Reynauld, Yulia and others.

    Travel Deals & Freebies
    If you’re planning a trip anytime soon, the hotel deals here are quite solid. Ascott is offering up to 40% off room bookings in Malaysia and nearby countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and more.

    • Deals run online and onsite
    • On-site buyers get a turn inside the Human Wind Chamber — 10 seconds to grab flying money. It’s fun to watch too!
    • You’ll also walk away with a MYTOWNKL Flower Bricks Blind Box and a CIMB Octo keychain.

    Games, Giveaways & More
    The vibe’s lively with interactive booths, mini games, lucky draws, and giveaways happening throughout the day. CIMB and ShopBack have booths with some perks, and Jaecoo has a car display if you’re curious about their latest model.

    If you’re free this weekend and happen to be near MYTOWNKL, it’s worth dropping by. Whether you’re just looking to chill, shop around, catch a live performance or hunt for travel deals — this one’s got a bit of everything. Runs until Sunday (27 July), so still time to check it out.

    📍MyTOWN Shopping Centre (Central Town)
    🕙 10AM – 9:30PM daily