Visit the Old Istana Negara

Finally we get to glimpse how the Royal Agung (King) in Malaysia live in the former Istana Negara now that they plan to turn it into a museum. Most of the time we only get to view the gates and the changing of the guards. And if you crane your neck and try to look through the bush you can see the royal palace facade.

Now that the King has relocated to their new residence in the Jalan Duta area, the old Istana Negara could finally be open to the public! It would be great to have a walk through and view the grand interior! However I wonder if the public would be allowed to snap photos. A few of the royal museums that I visited did not allow the public to take pictures, which was such a crying shame.

Anyway, in order to entice the public to come visit the royal palace, here are some photos from the local dailies giving you a rare glimpse on the inside interior of the old former Istana Negara!

Read More

Cosplay at Tokyo Street Pavilion KL

Tokyo Street Pavilion KL come alive with colourful cosplay anime fans! Certainly would be a sight to behold and definitely a lot of fun!

Mini Japan in mall
By Tan Karr Wei
Photos by Art Chen and Faihan Ghani
Wednesday August 1, 2012

AS A Malaysian boy growing up in England, Danny Choo — now 40 years old — did not do well in school because he was subject to constant bullying.

"I was dragged through gravel, beaten up by gangs and had my belongings set on fire. I didn't have a good time in school so I had lousy grades," recalled Choo, who is the son of shoe designer Datuk Jimmy Choo.

"I discovered Japanese culture many moons ago back in the UK, from gaming consoles and Japanese animation.

"I then wanted to learn Japanese," said Choo, who was back Kuala Lumpur recently for an anime conference and the Culture Japan Night at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur's Tokyo Street where he had a meet-and-greet with fans.

Looking the part: Anime fan Joshua Lee (centre), 29, who made his own costume, with Hammi Lye (left), 23, and Jennifer Thum, 26, all dressed in Mirai Millenium costumes.

He was so passionate about wanting to learn the language that he started working in Japanese companies so that he could practise the language.

"I find Japanese content to be very rich not only in anime but also in its culture. Back then, my only gateway to Japan was a bookshop in London where I buy my Japanese magazines.

"Coming back to Kuala Lumpur and seeing something like Tokyo Street is great, because people can find bits and pieces of Japan and enjoy the food," he said.

London-born Choo now runs Mirai Inc media production company in Japan, and is the director and host for the Culture Japan show where he promotes Japanese pop culture.

"Throughout my career, I worked mainly in the IT field. Working for others is great but being my own boss enables me to do a lot of what I enjoy, which is Japanese pop culture," he said.

Choo created a set of Moekana cards with Japanese alphabets on each card and cute characters to help people learn the language in a fun way.

Big in Japan: Anime pop icon Danny Choo with the character, Mirai Suenaga, which started off as a site mascot for his Culture Japan website.

The characters on the cards are none other than Mirai Suenaga, Haruka Suenaga and Kanata Hoshi-kawa, all of which started out as mascot characters for his website.

"The cards sold very well worldwide and we released an extension pack to these cards, and those sold out as well. I will be working next on a set of Moekanji cards where people can learn the Chinese characters used in the Japanese language," said Choo.

His blog (www.dannychoo.com) has also garnered a lot of interest and his work in promoting the Japanese culture has even been recognised by the Japanese government.

Looking forward, Choo wants to continue sharing the Japanese culture with people from around the world on a larger scale.

"I am actually working on a new TV show called Japan Mode, which will focus more on lifestyle and I will be introducing fashion, music and travel," he said.

Putting in an effort: Sia Choon Beng (right), 27, dressed up in character to attend the Culture Japan Night at Pavilion KL.

Being the son of Jimmy Choo, it was somewhat expected of people to wonder if Choo had his father's shoe-making skills.

"I used to work with him for awhile but I left his studio to learn about the Japanese culture. Yes, I still have some of the skills I picked up from him," he said.

Combining those skills with his passion for all things Japanese, Choo said it was "very likely" for him to have his own shoe line before the yearend.

"Even though my dressing is very trampy, I'm actually very interested in fashion," he said with a laugh.

"I want to combine Japanese culture, fashion and music together to form a new genre for the public. I don't think it is going to be something mainstream though. It will be something for people who appreciate fashion, or a particular anime title or Japanese culture.

"I have been consulting with the former chief editor of Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire in Japan and she advised me to do two lines.

"One will be high end. It will be a 'just-by-reaching-a-bit-further-and-you-can-get-a-hold-of-it' type of end," he said with one arm stretched out as if reaching for something as he gave a cheeky smile.

He said typically, most people would go into a shop where there were only perhaps one or two items that they want to buy.

"I want to have a shop where you want everything. That is the sort of shop I would like to have, he said.

Hammi Lye,23, dressed up as the Mirai Suenaga character popularised by Danny Choo

source: The Star

Read More

Visit Central Market Pasar Seni for Cultural Souvenirs

Central Market or Pasar Seni is the place to go to hunt down some souvenirs for your holiday travel. Located in the heart of KL, easily accessible via the Pasar Seni LRT station, it is one of the favourite haunt for visitors looking for something special to bring home with them.

This used to be a wet market selling perishable household food stuff and smelly fish and all. Being located in the prime location of Kuala Lumpur it was also causing much congestion. So City Hall decided to relocate the wet market activities elsewhere and refurbish the place as a cultural art souvenir center. They didn't want to demolished it as it has a long historical significance so converting it as tourism attraction place was a good move.

So come on over here and see if you can find some interesting artifact as a souvenir for your vacation trip!

Central Market is still the place for souvenirs, artefacts and cultural activities
By Jayagandi Jayraj
Photos by Mohd Faihan
Monday June 18, 2012

THE Central Market in Kuala Lumpur has always been a treasure trove of all things Malaysians, although recently it has extended itself to feature some foreign items too.

Complex manager Cheong Wai Mun said Central Market was a place focused on local artefacts, but there were also a small range of offerings which were not Malaysian.

“Most tenants here sell Malaysian-made items but other things which are not local are sold to complement what we have and also to offer a variety for tourists and visitors.

“For example, on the upper floor, we have the batik emporium selling batik that is produced here. But along with it, there are also some varieties from the neighbouring countries,” said Cheong at an interview recently.

Upgraded: A view of the kiosks at Central Market.

The 124-year-old Central Market, whose long history is intricately connected to the old and new generations of Kuala Lumpur is a testament that old buildings could be preserved and transformed to make it relevant with present times.

Since the takeover by Kha Seng Group in 2004, the place has been given a facelift to promote its unique selling point as an outstanding centre for Malaysian art and handicraft.

A RM10mil investment meant many positive additions to the building including zoned shopping areas and upgraded kiosks and stalls, creating a net lettable area estimated at over 650sq m of retail space.

The zoned areas reflect the cultural diversity of Malaysia with streets like Lorong Melayu, Cina and India.

Lorong Kelapa is a lane that offers traditional Malay snacks while Malacca Jonker Street is a comprehensive shopping centre for Malaysian handicrafts art.

Some of the local shops include the Coconut Shop which offers various souvenirs and artworks made from coconut shells and the Asli Kraf centre offers a wide variety of locally-made woven goods from materials which are found in the local forests.

Almost lifelike: Abdul Hadi Ahmad,
whose shop is at the Annex is well known
for his portraits of politicians.

Its owner Pong Panjang said the handiworks were sourced from the various orang asli communities in Terengganu, Pahang, Selangor and Perak.

The materials used for the handiworks are from various plants such as mengkuang, bamboo, bemban, kerdut and ribu- ribu.

Pong said ribu-ribu, which was a type of fern usually found in Sabah, was rare and a certain dexterity and expertise was required when weaving it.

“Since it is quite difficult to handle ribu-ribu, some use rattan instead. Ribu-ribu goods are often more expensive compared to others,” explained Pong, who has been operating in Central Market since the 80s.

Like Pong, there are many long-time tenants who trade at the Central Market. They include Songket Sutera operator Badrul Muda and artist Abdul Hadi Ahmad, whose shops are at the Annex, behind the main building.

While the tenants are happy and sure that they would be allowed to run business there as long as they want to, their competitors are shopping complexes mushrooming everywhere.

Tasty treat: This putu bambu shop
is popular among the Central Market visitors.

“Those days, there were only a few places like the Pertama Complex and Central Market as shopping attractions for people, but nowadays visitors have more choices. We are not getting as many visitors as we used to,” said Badrul.

According to Cheong, they have been organising more events to highlight Central Market as a cultural hub. She said many cultural activities were carried out at the venue apart from observing the major celebrations. A big attraction is the Lantern Festival, where visitors are given lanterns before a procession.

“We also have cultural dances from Monday to Thursday, and something on every day. On Sundays, we have martial art performances, which is quite popular among visitors here,” she added.

For detail on activities at the Central Market, visit www.centralmarket.com.my -- StarMetro

The Jonker Street in Central Market
is modelled after the one in Melaka,
looked real authentic!

Read More

Terry Fox Run KL 2011

Terry Fox Run KL 2011 will be held on 13th November 2011.

This is 31st Anniversary of The Terry Fox Run. It is a milestone unimaginable without the support of so many people. There is so much to be done yet we must always celebrate our victories - of which there have been many.

Date: 13 Nov 2011, 09:00AM
Location: Padang Merbok, Jalan Parlimen, Kuala Lumpur
Distance: 3.6 km

This is a non-competitive family run event.

Information

Terry Fox knew personally, the importance of the need for cancer research. At the age of 18, he was told that his right leg had to be amputated above the knee as a result of bone cancer.

During this crucial period, Terry saw the intese pain and despair of other cancer victims and was deeply moved. In order to raise funds for cancer research, he decided to run across Canada asking for donations. This became "The Marathon of Hope".

Terry Fox died before he could complete his crusade, but his legacy is carried in the hearts of all wo participate or donated to the Terry Fox Run each year around the world.

How the Marathon of Hope began:

Since it began in 1983, the Terry Fox Run has become the largest, single-day, fund-raising event for cancer research. Here in KL, the organizers aim to continue the quest to keep Terry's dream alive.

This year with the support of sponsors and participants, we hope to raise both funds and awareness for cancer research here in Kuala Lumpur. The beneficiary in previous years and this year as well is the Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF).

You too, can take up the quest so that Terry's dream of finding a cure for cancer can become a reality.

For further inquiries and volunteers, contact:
Mr. Yoon / Ms. Katrina Low / Mr. Peter Kang / Mr. Wong Siak Chung
Carif, 2nd Floor OPC,
Sime Darby Medical Centre.
Tel: 03-56391874
Email: organizer@terryfoxrunkl.org

Registration Details

Registration starts : 01 Oct 2011 to 04 Nov 2011

Entry info & cost:

Registration fee:
Normal T-Shirt : RM30
T-Shirt with embroidery - RM35

Purchase of T-shirt can also be done at:
1 Utama Shopping Complex
Community Corner @Oval
29th & 30th October
10am to 10pm

Bangsar Village 1
Nearby Information Counter
29th & 30th October
5th & 6th November
10am to 10pm

To register, contact:
Mr. Yoon / Ms. Katrina Low / Mr. Peter Kang / Mr. Wong Siak Chung
Carif, 2nd Floor OPC,
Sime Darby Medical Centre.
Tel: 03-56391874
Email: organizer@terryfoxrunkl.org

Rules and Regulations:
All participants must run on the designated route.
For wheelchair bound, and physically challenged participants, please note that there are slopes along the run route.

Parking:
Limited parking is available on site, and public transport is recommended.

Notice:
The organisers, their agents, representatives, successors and assigns, are not liable for any injuries suffered, damage and loss of properties by participants at this events.

Terry Fox Run KL 2011, 13th November 2011
Padang Merbok, Jalan Parlimen, Kuala Lumpur

Read More

Night Life in Kuala Lumpur area

Night life in Kuala Lumpur can be very exciting and colourful. Check out some of the new clubs. While you are at it, you can also go clubbing around Petaling Jaya and Subang!

New club in Bukit Bintang opens with a bang
By Christina Low
Friday September 30, 2011

THE streets behind Jalan Bukit Bintang will no longer be short of excitement, quiet and lonely with the opening of @live Kuala Lumpur music club.

Located at the Federal Arcade — close to Low Yat Plaza and the Federal Hotel — it is the second outlet for @live. The first was in Sunway Pyramid.

Assistant manager Colin Yap said he was thankful to the patrons especially those residing outside the city who has been visiting the club and showing their support.

"We have only been operating for a month and the people here have been very kind to us.

Raise your glasses: The performers and dancers toasting the guests
to mark the opening of the club at Bukit Bintang.

"Sometimes we feel bad for not being able to accept more reservations especially from new patrons as our members and regulars reserve their seats weeks in advance," he said.

He said tenants from the various shopping malls, hotels and food outlets surrounding the club have yet to get a chance to come to the club.

Hence, when the club held its grand opening ceremony recently, Yap made sure his neighbours made time to visit the two-storey club.

"With the four-day celebrations, we are able to invite more people to come over and experience how different our club is," he said.

Guests were treated to a two-hour free flow of drinks before the outlet opened its doors to the public.

At 11pm, @live KL's 22-member music group comprising nine singers, nine dancers and four musicians came on stage to entertain patrons with various songs from Pop, Rock to Urban and Dance in English, Chinese, Thai, Korean and Japanese.

After one hour into their non-stop performance, the group took a brief break to pop champagne and toast the crowd, thanking them for their support. -- Star Metro

Besides the night life in Kuala Lumpur, there are many other other night life and clubbing around Petaling Jaya and Subang Jaya. Do check them out!

Clubbing on the fringes

This week looks at the clubbing scene on the fringes of the Klang Valley. We like to call it the outer ring. Here are some of the more active clubs just outside the confines of KL.

BANDAR SUNWAY

MINISTRY OF SOUND - EUPHORIA

Sunway Lagoon Resort Hotel, Persiaran Lagoon, Bandar Sunway

Wednesday – Student Night ft MIDI Life Crisis. Heads up to all students out there! A weekly affair tailor-made especially for you. MIDI Life Crisis is the brain child of the duo lefunktstudio and 3MO. A playground where the two combine their skills and talents to put together weekly experimentations and creations. 18 years and above only. Present valid student ID for complimentary entry. Come in student costume to be entitled to 5 complimentary drinks. All others cover charges apply.

Thursday – Open format fusing new wave, hip hop, house, rock, anything and everything that the imagination desires. Resident DJ: Patrick Oliver from Miami, U.S.A. Free entry for Ladies. Admission (with one drink): RM40 (men).

Friday – EDM (electronic dance music) night weekly with frequent local and international guests. Admission (with one drink): RM50.

Saturday – MixTape with Patrick Oliver and lefunktstudio back to back. Admission (with one drink): RM35.

For reservations and table bookings, contact RSVP: +603-7495 1786 / +603-7495 1789 * reservation line opens from 10am - 7pm (Mon – Sat) or email rsvp@euphoria.com.my or visit www.euphoria.com.my.

@ LIVE

OB-1E, Oasis Boulevard, Sunway Pyramid, Bandar Sunway

@ LIVE (pronounced “at live” or “alive”) is the newest dance club hotspot at Sunway Pyramid’s Oasis Boulevard strip, the first of its kind in Malaysia to provide unparalleled English (E-pop), Mandarin (M-pop) and Korean (K-pop) live dance club shows.

Chill outdoors at the Alfresco Terrace at sundown with a drink or two, or park yourself inside The Live Room to catch an eyeful of spectacular shows. Regular themed nights also mean there’s never a dull moment at @LIVE. Sunday through Tuesday provides you with the best of E-pop, M-pop and K-pop performances while Ladies’ Night on Wednesdays means there’s eye candy for the girls with plenty of male dancers executing body-popping moves and a DJ turning up the heat onstage. On the weekends, E-pop and K-pop go head to head with sprightly entertainers fuelling the creative fire at @LIVE to the hottest club hits.

REPUBLIC BAR

Sunway Pyramid Ground Floor (orange entrance)

The Republic Bar, where the hip and the chic come to party or simply chill out, now has a swanky new face combining stylish design, lavish decor and just a dash of charming bohemian allure. Free entry all nights. Tel: +603-5631 8661 / Fax: +603-5631 8662. web: www.republicbar.com

BARCELONA SUNWAY

Oasis Boulevard 3, 3 Jalan PJS 11/15, Sunway Pyramid, Bandar Sunway

Six nights a week, with the action peaking from Wed to Sat. Mostly featuring R&B and hip hop music with a little house music thrown in along the way. Cover charges apply.

HELO BALI

Sunway Pyramid (Main Entrance 2), Bandar Sunway

Opens seven days a week. Resident and guest DJs keep the motors running with urban hip hop, dancehall and house. Call 017-224 7390 or +6016-339 0002 for reservations or information.

PETALING JAYA

LAUNDRY BAR

Curve, Mutiara Damansara, PJ

Laundry was born out of a passion for life and it’s many pleasures - music, good company, food and drinks. Laundry is also firm supporter of the local music scene as well as international artistes looking for a platform to share their love with the world.

Sunday: DJ Elvin of Goldsounds with R&B and hip hop.8Pm onwards.

Monday: The finest dub, soul, roots, reggae and chill. Every city needs a dub club. 9.30pm till closing

Tuesday: Who’s World dropping metronomes of retrospective hits, temperature funk, soul, punk, Afro beat samba, disko jazz, R&B, broken hips to hip house. 9.30pm till closing.

Wednesdays: Jason M with anything you want from hip hop, R&B to party and house.

Friday: Elvin and Vick give you hip hop, R&B, party and dance.

Saturday: New Kid On The Block DJ Vin - hip hop and R&B, party, dance. 9.30 till closing.

And it’s all free entry. Tel: +603-7728 1715. web: www.laundrybar.net.

MOVIDA

Unit C-03 & C-03a, Block C, Giza Mall. Kota Damansara, PJ

Located at the heart of Sunway Giza. A live dining and music room that features the sounds of world music as well as serving up the best of Western and Asian Cuisine. MOVIDA is defined by clean and minimalist lines that accentuate a contemporary ambience mellowed with the warmth of traditional charm in the space with a perfect atmosphere for a party anytime, any day! Open Mondays to Saturdays. Tel: +603-6141 8022 Fax: +603-6141 8023. Email: info@movida.my Website: www.movida.my

APARTMENT

Curve, Mutiara Damansara, PJ

Fridays and Saturdays from 8.30pm onwards with DJ Jason M. Call +603-7727 8330 for information. Web: www.atheapartment.com

HEX SENSORY ROOM

Unit D.G – 01 & 02, Block D, Menara Taiko, PJ Trade Centre

8, Jalan PJU 8/8A, Damansara Perdana, PJ

A new addition, Hex opens up to clientele who are young and appreciate variety. It’s anything from chill out and Top 40s during happy hours, with electro, house and progressive as it gets later in the evening. Opening hours - Weekdays 5pm-1am. Friday & Saturdays 5pm-1am. Closed on Sundays. Saturday: What The Hex? House music for your weekends. A night set to bring you to another level featuring the best of house music from house to progressive to tech-house, tribal and more. DJ Zecha (Honolulu, Hawaii) and KL’s DJ I_Sec. Call Izzy +6012-320 0098 / Genji +6012-214 2416 for RSVP.

ECOBAR

PJ Trade Center, Menara Bata (Grd Floor),

8 Jalan PJU 8/8A, Damansara Perdana, PJ

Watch this new spot for Damansara Perdana, merely a couple of stone throws away from the Curve.

UNCLE CHILLI’S

Hilton Petaling Jaya, 2, Jalan Barat, PJ

One of the longer standing nightlife venues in the PJ scene, Uncle Chilli’s is located just next to the lobby of Hilton PJ. Portraying a sleek, contemporary and stylish ambience, Uncle Chilli’s comprises of distinctive facets including The Cigar Lounge, private rooms, dining area, main bar and dance floor. Uncle Chilli’s offers party-goers pulsating music selection, DJ line up and live band every night. Catch resident DJ Mystyx Mon to Sat, as well as in-house DJs Pluck, Aloy, Danny, Eriq and Chinoz spinning the latest R&B, hip hop, electro, rock and house tracks on rotate from Monday to Sunday. For information on admission charges and reservations call +603-7955 9122. Website: www.ZestPJ.com.

Read More

Base Jumping - Kuala Lumpur International Jump Malaysia 2011

There will be a Base Jumping event - the Kuala Lumpur International Jump Malaysia 2011 which will be held from Wednesday, 28 September to Sunday, 2 October 2011.

Here's an interesting write up about a base jumper. - Kawabanga!

Base jumping now a part of Archana's life
By Christina Low
Photo by P. Nathan
Friday September 30, 2011

THE slow-paced life of Archana Sardana took an about-turn after marrying her husband, an outdoor sports fanatic, a decade ago.

"He does everything from mountaineering, scuba-diving, rafting, sky diving and base-jumping," said the 38-year-old who then followed her husband's footsteps after much persuasion.

The mother of two, who is now in Kuala Lumpur for the Kuala Lumpur International Jump Malaysia 2011, said she had never participated in any sports before and had led a slow-paced life at home after graduating in interior design and science.

"My husband started me off with climbing mountains in Uttaranchal, India, and now sky diving," said Archana who came alone for the event as her husband who is with the Indian navy was away on work.

Being the first and only Indian woman base jumper is a title Archana carries with pride and hopes more women will join her in the sport one day.

Archana, who learnt her sky-diving techniques in California, United States, has completed 250 sky dives and 37 base jumps over the past three years.

It is not easy to be able
to leap off a tower. Many
countries do not allow it
but I am glad Malaysia
allows it. — Archana Saradana

This weekend she will be joining 90 others from all over the world to jump off the 421m KL Tower.

She is also one of five women base jumpers in the event.

"It is not easy to be able to leap off a tower. Many countries do not allow it but I am glad Malaysia allows it as well as encourages and supports such sports," said Archana who is in Kuala Lumpur for the second time.

The event, which started on Wednesday (28-Sep-2011), will end on Sunday (2-Oct-2011). There will be jumps from 10am to 6pm. Night jumps which were introduced last year will be held today and tomorrow from 8.30pm to 10.30pm.

Exhilarating: A jumper coming down during the
Kuala Lumpur International Jump Malaysia 2011.

Visitors can watch the event at the tower's open deck with exclusive premier tickets priced at RM100 and RM150 for the day event.

For the night event the tickets are priced at RM150 and RM200.

Menara Kuala Lumpur chief executive officer Zuraidah Mohd Said and chairman Tan Sri Md Radzi Mansor launched the event on Wednesday and had a get-together session with the base jumpers. -- The Star Metro

Read More

Aquaria KLCC New Attractions

Mischievous baby otters and octopus star attractions at Aquaria KLCC
By S. Puspadevi
Friday August 26, 2011

IT WAS absolutely sheer enjoyment to watch baby otters playing with one another in a tank specially built to fit its habitat.

Children, particularly, were amazed to watch these mammals actively teasing and playing with animal trainers of Aquaria KLCC. If you are one who loves marine and wildlife, you simply should not miss this opportunity and worthwhile experience as Aquaria takes you on a journey through water to discover the fascinating nature of equatic life as well as exploring the individual behaviour of animals and crawly creatures.

Aquaria KLCC now has four baby otters and an octopus as its main attraction. Its managing director and chief executive officer Datuk Simon Foong took the writer on a personal tour of this marine and wildlife adventure focusing on the introduction of new baby otters and the pacific octopus.

Hello there: Foong introducing a baby otter at Aquaria KLCC.

Parents of baby otters, five-year-old Cinta (male) and three-year-old Manja (female) were given to Aquaria KLCC by Zoo Negara a few years ago. Another friend of Cinta and Manja is Olly, a male otter, aged one. It has also learnt mischevious tricks from the other two.

These baby webbed pawed mammals were delivered five months ago and have been the main attraction as they charm the crowd with their mischevious behaviour.

Foong said the baby otters, two females and two males, have not been given names yet and visitors are welcome to name them by dropping their suggestions in a box located in front of the exhibit area.

"The baby otters were taught how to swim by our animal trainers when they were four months old and they were fed with milk formula in the beginning. Now they are able to consume solids," he said, adding that the otters are fed twice a day.

Another interesting feature of Aquaria is the new pacific octopus, which originates from Japan.

New addition: The Pacific octopus is a new exhibit at Aquaria KLCC.

Foong said the octopus was brought in a month and a half ago since the existing one had died just after four weeks after laying eggs. He said the eggs too did not survive.

The two-year-old octopus, which originates from the Northern Pacific ocean, was shy as it did not submerge when it was time to feed it. It was hiding beneath the rocks and the animal trainer had to get into the tank to lift it out.

Foong said the octopus can grow up to five metres in length and weigh up to 60kg. Known as Enteroctopus Dofleim, it hides easily in different surroundings to avoid predators.

Foong also mentioned about a new exhibit which will showcase the Malaysian rainforests, which is expected to be ready just before Chinese New Year.

"The exhibit themed ‘Rimba Ria’ will feature the rainforests of Endau Rompin, Taman Negara and Belum," he said, adding that the built-up area for this exhibit was about 4.500sq ft.

"Renovation work for the proposed RM2.5mil exhibit will start in November," Foong said,

He also said it was pertinent for the public to realise the significance of rainforests and its role in our lives as 30% of oxygen comes from trees.

"Therefore, it is vital to create this awareness, especially among the younger generation," he added.

Aquaria KLCC is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and is well known for its state-of-the art aquarium, which showcases over 5,000 different species.

For those who want to experience feeding sharks and do not have a Padi card to dive, Aquaria has come up with "Cage Rage", which started operations in March 2011. Tickets for this whole new adventure is priced at RM199.

Aquaria is open daily from Monday to Sunday from 11am to 8pm and during public holidays and school holidays, it is open from 10.30am to 8pm. -- The StarMetro

Read More

Central Market Pasar Seni KL

Central Market or Pasar Seni is one of the popular tourist destination in Kuala Lumpur. It can be reached via the Pasar Seni LRT station. I still remember the time when it was converted from a wet market to its current art and craft market when I was a school boy studying nearby. It is still a draw for tourist now and with many activities and busking giving this place a very lively attraction.

Central Market / Pasar Seni, Kuala Lumpur

Central Market: Keeping heritage relevant
By Anansa Jacob
29 July 2011

THE Central Market has been a Malaysian cultural focal point for many tourists visiting Kuala Lumpur, but these days, few city folk actually visit the 123-year-old landmark themselves.

In 2004, Central Market was taken over by Kha Seng Group, which also runs other key building projects like Viva Home and the upcoming Kenanga Wholesale City.

Since then, this tourist hub has been revamped, with new facilities and additions to emphasise its status as a showcase for Malaysian arts and handicraft.

The efforts to improve Central Market have paid off with the place earning an Excellence award at the Kuala Lumpur Mayor's Tourism Awards in June.

At a recently organised media tour, Kha Seng Group public relations executive Julia Emmanuel gave a group of journalists and bloggers a firsthand look at the new Central Market.

"One of the most obvious additions is the Kasturi Walk, located next to Central Market," she said. "We built a covered roof over the various kiosks that sell food and souvenirs over the sidewalk, and gave it a local touch with giant wau bulan structures located at both ends."

Kasturi Walk is also a venue for nightly cultural performances, as well as a Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia dance performance every Saturday night.

Within Central Market itself, where tourists can purchase unique souvenirs and traditional handicrafts, it looks as though not much has changed. But upon exploration, the layout of the shops are better organised, with handicrafts from specific cultures organised into 'streets' such as Malay Street, Straits Chinese, Little India, Jonker Street and Blue Mansion.

There are also several new eateries there, most of them selling popular versions of local cuisine. These include Oldtown White Coffee, Ginger Restaurant, Annexe Nasi Kandar and Rainforest Bistro & Restaurant. There is also a food court located on the upper floor for those looking for a more varied F&B experience.

The Central Market Annexe, located behind the main building, has also been revived as a space for the local art scene, with galleries and an area for performances or events.

There is also a daily free Heritage Walk tour, organised by Be Tourist. The tour guides are all volunteers, and they take interested visitors on a leisurely walk through areas in the city that showcase local Malay, Indian and Chinese cultures.

Our tour guide that morning was Connie, who was chirpy despite the wet weather we were having that day. She explained the history of Central Market, telling how it had evolved from its humble origins as a wet market in 1888 to its current incarnation.

After that, she took us on a roundabout trip through parts of old Kuala Lumpur and Masjid Lebuh Ampang. Our first stop was the century-old Masjid Jamek, which overlooked the confluence of the Gombak and Klang rivers. The historic mosque usually opens its doors to visitors, who are allowed to walk in and take photographs.

Later, we arrived at Little India to visit a chettiar building, one of the last few traditional moneylenders in the city. After that, we were taken through a narrow alley which housed three stalls manned by owners from the three main races in Malaysia. According to Connie, because of this, the place was known as the 1Malaysia Food Street.

We also visited the Sin Sze Ya temple, a Taoist temple that was built by the city founder Kapitan Yap Ah Loy in 1864, and is still visited by those wanting blessings and guidance for themselves or their families.

Throughout the journey, Connie also pointed out several old buildings that had historical value, including the city's oldest pawnshop, as well as a building with a balcony where she said maidens used to choose their husbands by throwing handkerchiefs for prospective suitors to catch.

Sadly, she added, most of these buildings were run down and not well cared for, and like many other historical sites, had been overlooked or sacrificed for the sake of rapid development.

Later, over lunch in Precious Old China, a restaurant serving fusion nyonya cuisine on Central Market's first floor, Julia said that there were more events planned at Central Market to reintroduce it to Malaysians.

"Everyone knows that it is a tourist destination, but we also want Malaysians to come and visit it," she said.

Among the activities planned are a photo contest to capture the essence of Central Market, a postcard-making workshop and a Chinese Opera performance in August. Not to mention the various cultural performances every day.

"We want people to come and visit Central Market and just see how much things have changed over the years," Julia added. "We want them to come and maybe even learn something new about the different cultures in their own country, and by teaching the public, we hope to be able to keep our heritage alive for many generations to come."

Source: thesundaily.my/news/94300
Find out more Info: centralmarket.com.my

It's been a long while since my last visit to Central Market Pasar Seni. Good for revisit for us locals too!

Read More

Romantic getaways in Malaysia

Romantic getaways
Saturday February 12, 2011
By Boey Ping Ping

Love a good holiday? Then break away this Valentine’s Day.

LOVE is in the air. Whether you’re lovebirds, newly weds or long married, rekindle your romance on Valentine’s Day at one of seven unforgettable destinations right here in Malaysia.

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi

For the self-indulgent couple: Champagne and strawberries, check. Roses, check. Private villa, check. The crème de la crème of Langkawi’s resorts has all the trappings of an extravagant sojourn; from sipping bubblies onboard a rustic sampan (local boat) at sunset to reclining by the beach gorging on giant, double chocolate-dipped strawberries to being serenaded by musicians at a private seaside dinner. Roses turn up in specially drawn baths, flower trails and a hand-held bouquet for the lucky gal.

Read More

Kuala Lumpur City Walk

Here's something interesting, hopefully when it is ready I will have a good look at this Kuala Lumpur City Walk. It is to be located along the 416m strip of land from Jalan P.Ramlee to Jalan Pinang and Jalan Perak. Will just have to wait till it is ready for some Kuala Lumpur tourism!

KL City Walk Map Location

KL City Walk will have 50 kiosks selling a range of products
By Choong Mek Zhin
Photos by Samuel Ong
Thursday, 6 Jan 2011

THE Kuala Lumpur City Walk, a new tourist hub for Malaysian food and products, is expected to open as soon as next month, after 13 years in the making.

The 416m-walk is located along a small strip of land that links Jalan P. Ramlee to the connecting road between Jalan Pinang and Jalan Perak. It is surrounded by high-rise office and residential buildings.

Deputy Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk M. Saravanan, who paid a surprise visit to the site on Tuesday, said he came to check on the project's safety plans.

"I am happy with this Cabinet-approved private project and it is in accordance with the submitted plan," he said after walking the entire length.

Breezy experience: Stroll in the shade at the KL City Walk when it opens.

---

He said the developer and management had the responsibility of making sure the place did not turn into a slum while the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) licensing department would be in charge of monitoring the place.

Developer and management company Go Venture Sdn Bhd director Kevin Flynn said there were 50 retail kiosks along the walk and each was between 100 and 300 sq ft in size.

"The businesses here will be run by those who have already made a name for themselves in their own specialised trade. Rent will be charged according to the price range and items that the businesses sell," said Flynn.

He said only 10 of the kiosks would be serving food and beverage while the rest could be selling anything such as silverware, postcards, and antiques.

Knowing the project: Choong (left) briefing Saravanan on the City Walk project during his site visit.

---

Flynn said priority would be given to local businesses though visitors can expect to see a mixture of other Asian and Western offerings too.

He added that the walk, which featured three themes — Heritage, Contemporary and Future, and would operate from 6am to 3am daily.

Shady trees would be planted all along it.

Go Venture's parent company Trend Matrix Enterprise Sdn Bhd group managing director Ronnie Choong was also present during the deputy minister's site visit. -- The Star

Truly Asia: Flynn said that they hoped visitors to the Kuala Lumpur City Walk will leave feeling like they have seen and experienced what Asia is all about

---

KL City Walk's pedestrian mall to open in July
2011/05/05
By Masriwanie Muhamading


KUALA LUMPUR: The country's first-of-its-kind pedestrian strip mall, KL City Walk, is expected to be officially opened in September.

Trend Matrix Enterprises Sdn Bhd group managing director Ronnie Choong said the soft launch will take place in July.

Located between the multi-storey office and residential buildings in the heart of the city's Golden Triangle, fronting Jalan P. Ramlee and Jalan Pinang, the 410m-long strip mall comprises of 50 outlets including food and beverages (F&B), retail and services outlets and 23 kiosks and 19 carts offering various Malaysian products ranging from fashion to food.


The RM15 million mall will also operate longer, from 8am to midnight from Sundays to Thursdays and from 11am to 5am on Fridays, Saturdays and on eve of public holidays.

"What distinguishes KL City Walk from other tourist spots is its main proposition to feature established and emerging local designers and entrepreneurs whose products are infused with our culture and heritage.

"We will hand-pick our tenants through a selection committee.


"In terms of F&B, we will select those who are able to offer the best of local and international cuisine," said Choong, who is also a member of the selection committee.

He added there will also be a box office where customers can purchase tickets for all key entertainment shows within Klang Valley.

"A fully equipped concierge service will be provided to inform visitors not just about KL City Walk but also about Kuala Lumpur."


Choong said the response from tenants have been very encouraging with 30 per cent of the project taken up prior to the official sales launch which will take place today and tomorrow from 11am to 5pm.

"KL City Walk will certainly contribute towards the country's tourism. In terms of employment opportunities, we estimate it will create about 1,000 new jobs," said Choong.

The project is developed by Go Venture Sdn Bhd and managed by City Walk Enterprises Sdn Bhd.

For details, visit www.klcitywalk.com or call 03-2170 6688.

-- NST

Read More