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Five Key Things Malaysians Need to Know About Investing in Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrencies are still among the riskiest investment vehicles, but the alluring appeal of this new investment entity is their high-return potential, large enough to become exponentially more than their collective weight in bandwidth. Slowly but surely, there are many in Malaysia that are including them in their investment portfolios. Here is, by no means an exhaustive list, that gives an overview of how the local crypto scene is shaping up for the future:

5 Things You Should Know About Cryptocurrency in Malaysia

1 | There are cryptocurrency exchanges, but not many of them

Most will find buying Bitcoin and other altcoins quite a hassle in Malaysia because the infrastructure isn’t quite as established as compared to Singapore’s for instance. There’s only one Bitcoin ATM in the country and it’s in Ipoh – let’s hope that it’s plugged in.

Cryptocurrency ATM in Ipoh

There’s a lot of friction when it comes to the injection and withdrawal of Ringgit denominated funds from local banks. As such, easily, the most accessible exchange is Luno where  Bitcoin is available for purchase now. Recently, the Bitcoin startup raised USD9 million in new funding courtesy of a London-based VC firm. Coinhako is also a safe(r) bet and is operated by a Singaporean startup that also allows users to purchase Ethereum (ETH) before hopping over to Bittrex or some other more robust digital currency exchange. Of course, there are others like Remitano ) and LocalBitcoin but they are essentially trading pits and as such due diligence must be done by both buyers and sellers.  

“I got started as a lurker on internet forums such as Bitcointalk.org and gradually moved on to trading on exchanges and with other enthusiasts,” explains Alex Wong of his evolution as a trader that is typical of how many locals acquaint themselves with Bitcoin and eventually more adventurous altcoins. 

“Almost 70% to 80% of my internet transactions are now done through Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin,” Wong adds. “I’ve since joined Telegram groups and attended many crypto seminars and conferences in Vietnam and Philippines and they seem to be ahead of the curve compared to us. In my opinion, we were a little obsessed with mining and tagging along for a quick buck. Adoption came later when many took notice of the soaring prices.”

2 | There are cryptocurrency scams (and crypto-scammers). Many of them.

Scan through Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Consumer Alert list of unauthorised companies and websites. You’ll find that there are fraudulent companies masquerading as investment firms that include cryptocurrencies as part of the strategic repertoire to earn members a fast Ringgit – be it through an index-linked fund, the purchase of pooled mining contracts or even outright purchase of coins and tokens issued by the company.

One such member, when interviewed, proudly trumpets it a means of “increasing your wealth to last your entire future by spending just an hour with me.”  It is worth noting the company he is a part of has a structure that resembles a Ponzi scheme and now sits proudly in the top 10 of BNM’s equivalent of the Billboard Hot 100. Ironically, he too was quick to point out that there are “a lot of scams out there and a lot of people desperate to make some quick cash because times are hard. So please be careful.” Go figure.

As a result, rampant multi-level marketing operators have given cryptocurrencies a bad name in Malaysia. “Given cryptocurrency’s non-legal (it’s not illegal, but exists in a grey area) status, many people are unable to access recourse mechanisms,” says ACCESS Blockchain Association Malaysia’s vice president, Suraya Zainudin. She is also the Malaysian country manager of Wirex, a Bitcoin debit card company. “Some of these Ponzi recruiters are also not based in Malaysia or operated by anonymous entities, making it harder to get justice. Nevertheless, I think the scene has matured to a degree with more knowledgeable individuals who have most passed being easily misled by confidence tricksters.”

3 | They can’t keep a good initial coin offering (ICO) down

If something is too good to be true, it usually is. And that’s where it gets more complicated than monthly forking. There are quick cash grabs and pump-and-dump gigs where literally anyone can raise funds with an Initial Coin Offering (ICO). Still, there exist pools of prospective buyers waiting on the sidelines. Their relatively lower prices present great value with potentially exponential high capital value upside. Demand levels have never been higher even as BNM has until the end of the year to decide if alternative cryptocurrencies (including ICOs) should be regulated or banned.

Unfortunately, a legitimate and operationally viable ICO initiated by a local team is a rare find. This is compounded by the fact that oversupply is suppressing funds raised even as the trend has yet to bottom out. “There are a few ICOs done by Malaysian teams that have well-written white papers and a working product before launch,” elaborates Suraya. “On the other hand, there are also Malaysian-based blockchain projects that are internationally respected such as Etherscan and CoinGecko.”

4 | Cryptocurrency wallet security is still an issue

Navigating the barrage of options when it comes paper, hardware, desktop, exchange, smartphone wallets is proving to be taxing to casual dabblers. “I just keep it all in the exchange and hope for the best,” admits one cryptocurrency owner who does not wish to be named for obvious reasons. “It’s just too hard to keep track of where I’ve stashed everything and, more importantly, how to transfer them back to the exchanges securely.” A small sample size of six in ten Bitcoin and altcoin owners did not take any precaution towards safeguarding their new-fangled assets in a digital cowboy town where the sheriff is often in cahoots with the outlaws.

“I’ll take the necessary measures when I start to accumulate more cryptos,” mentions another individual who Ringgit averages as a Bitcoin buying strategy but lets it sit in a pile on the bar counter of his exchange. And judging from similar sentiments echoed by many interviewed, the lack of contraceptive measures is attributed to not just a steep learning curve but the universal fact that a life lesson in investing requires being scalded occasionally in the name of diversification. And we have yet to have a Mt. Gox of our own to scale on a national level. Our suggestion: keep it somewhere safe. Now.

5 | No limit in sight for cryptocurrency growth

Like the trajectory of Bitcoin, the community is growing. And like watching a football match at your local watering hole or mamak, there’s an exhilaration in stalking World Coin Index with like-minded individuals who have also placed their bets. There is also a notable shift in interest from traditional core markets due to stagnation and affordability factors – anyone with Ringgit to spare can join in the fun. Overall, there’s a healthy demand due to strong underlying factors and sentiments, which will continue to support the market here even as the Ringgit plummets to new lows in an arduous drawn-out economic recovery that seems to be decelerating.

“I think the growth is positive as the community grows stronger and the number of service providers targeting Malaysians increase,” says Suraya.  “I’m pleasantly surprised by the strong community spirit. We have actively helped newbies to get started and avoid scams.” If one possesses the funds or even a favourable leverage position, the outlook is that the ability to HODL (Hold on for dear life) is a realistic approach to take even as Bitcoin alone mutates in size to surpass Malaysia’s foreign reserve in market capitalisation. “Cryptocurrencies are still considered high-risk,” she adds. “I would advise individuals to not invest more than what they can afford to lose.” 

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Proceeds of the Braun Büffel 130th Anniversary Charity Golf Drive to Support UNICEF Children’s Education Initiative

Comedian Harith Iskander at the Braun Büffel 130th Anniversary Charity Golf Drive on October 19 at the Mines Resort & Golf.

[ADVERTORIAL]

Giving comes in many forms, and in this end-of-year-season spirit, Braun Büffel held a charity golf drive on October 19 at the Mines Resort and Golf CLub, in benefit of UNICEF.

Good weather marked the start of the day for the approximately 100 high net-worth participants, with a strong tee-off led by Mr SS Chiang, chairman of Lianbee-Jeco, licensee company for Braun Büffel. The golfers, which included notable comedian Harith Iskander, are from varying industries, but come together in sharing Braun Büffel’s ideals on education. Afterwards, lunch was hosted by Yvonne Lee, emcee, entrepreneur and former Miss World Malaysia (2012), where Harith entertained guests with a hilarious segment of standup comedy, and winners of the tournament were announced.

Mr SS Chiang, chairman of Lianbee Jeco at tee-off.

Braun Büffel CSR Initiatives In Support of UNICEF

Overall, the event raised a total of RM130,000 all of which will be donated to UNICEF, in support of the non-profit organisation’s South East Asia Primary Learning Metrics (SEA-PLM) Assessment Programme. Braun Büffel Malaysia took on the initiative to support SEA-PLM, a learning assessment developed specifically for the Southeast Asian region, in order to convene, unite and strengthen the advocacy for equal education opportunities for all children and youth in Malaysia who have no access to education.

The belief held at Braun Büffel is that in order to be ready for the future, new generations of leaders, entrepreneurs and bright young minds must be prepared with a solid foundation in education and hence, the charity golf drive is not the first CSR initiative to bring awareness to the UNICEF SEA-PLM. This past August saw the launch of the Büffel Art Project in Malaysia, in conjunction with Braun Büffel’s own 130th anniversary of fine leather craftsmanship.

Held between August 30 to September 3, the launch had the support of six local arts and entrepreneurial personalities: graffiti artist Kenji Chai, fashion designer Silas Liew, Broadway actress Atilia Haron, former Miss Malaysia Deborah Henry, tattoo artist Lynda Chean and singer-songwriter Elizabeth Tan. During this time, the Büffel Art Project also introduced the Büffel Art Competition, where aspiring local artists and students from schools across Malaysia took part in designing their own Büffel figurine. Participants were required to  create their designs with an ‘education’ theme in mind during an on-the-spot, four-hours competition.

“No child should be told or feel that education is a privilege nor a far-fetched dream,” said Christiane Brunk, Managing Director of Braun Büffel Europe and great-granddaughter of founder, Johann Braun, when speaking at the August launch of the Büffel Art Project.

“Braun Büffel is committed towards our partnership with UNICEF in championing for education equity for all children. As a responsible and privileged society, we must work together and never inhibit a child’s future.”

Braun Büffel’s philosophy on preparing the new generations stem perhaps from the house’s own venerable history of passing the finer skills and sharp business acumen from one generation to the next. The house was started in 1887 by master saddler and upholster Johann Braun  from Kirn, Germany, which was then expanded into a larger enterprise by his son Alois Braun, who led the house throughout the ups and downs during World War II. With refined technical craftsmanship skills, the house entered the hands of the third-generation under stewardship of Hans-Werner Braun. The beloved Braun Büffel buffalo symbol that we know today was introduced by his brother, Karl Heinz, who is also Christiane Brunk’s father.

Visit Braun Büffel for more on their latest collections. For more on the UNICEF SEA-PLM Assesment Programme, click here.

Oasia Hotels By Far East Hospitality Brings Wellness to the Forefront of the Travel Experience

Oasia Hotel Downtown

Seasoned travellers know perfectly well that constantly being on the go all over the world is no excuse for not checking in on your overall wellness. The “Journey Well” programme at Oasia Hotels by Far East Hospitality ensures that you make wellness a priority when staying at Oasia Hotel Novena and Oasia Hotel Downtown in Singapore.

The programme focuses on three key elements. ‘Refresh’ prioritises quality of rest, ‘refuel’ refers to well-planned meal offerings and ‘recharge’ provides ways for guests to invigorate the mind and body through spa and fitness options. With the “Journey Well” programme, leisure travellers might find the “refresh, refuel and recharge” approach a novel way to explore the services and unique experiences both Oasia properties have to offer, with worthwhile value add when staying as a club guest.

Oasia Hotel Novena

Oasia Novena: The Living Room Club Lounge Pool

First, we venture into Oasia Hotel Novena, where two elements should immediately strike your attention. Built with repurposed slabs of sand-coloured stone, the lobby’s high-ceilinged, cavelike facade is a stark difference from the hotel’s corporate grey exterior. Wood fittings add to the lobby’s natural theme, like the skeleton of a tree, polished and repurposed into a work of art, and now stays proudly between the reception desk and entrance to Marmalade Pantry, the hotel’s bistro. Just when you’ve adjusted to the scene, you’ll notice a pleasant scent in the air — notes of lavender and lemon, followed by coriander and ginger hit your olfactory senses — another one of the deliberate elements meant to help you “refresh”. There’s time before dinner, so “refuel” at the Living Room on level 22, Novena’s heavily zen-inspired club lounge, where freshly-made coffee and all-day snacks are served. The club guest-only pool here will help you “recharge”, and the Oasis on level 8 has a 24-hour gym, sauna and steam room. And when you’re finally hungry enough, chefs at the Marmalade Pantry can whip up a modern bistro meal for your “refuel” enjoyment.

Alternative dinner recommendations: Tsukada Nojo at Plaza Singapura

Try a “bijin nabe” hotpot meal at Tsukada Nojo, a well-known hotpot restaurant brand that originated from Japan. Also known as “beauty collagen hotpot”, their signature broth is derived from an 8-hour, slow-cooked chicken bone broth promotes joints and skin health. The phrase “beauty collagen” doesn’t exactly conjure up an appetising image, be well assured that we can attest that the fresh, hormone-free ingredients cooked in flavourful bone broth is one of the best-tasting hot pots we’ve had to date.

Oasia Hotel Downtown

Oasia Downtown: Club Floor Infinity Pool

The Oasia experience wouldn’t be complete without staying at least one night at Oasia Hotel Downtown in Tanjong Pagar. Its pink exterior and live creepers creating a vertical garden around the building is an attention grabber amidst the other skyscrapers in the CBD area, but that’s only the icing on the design cake. Hallways in the hotel are bathed in fashionable rose gold, and rooms have the finishing touches of Spanish interior design extraordinaire, Patricia Urquiola. The open air garden space at the check-in lobby on level 12 is where Sunday yoga classes are held, and club guests can enjoy luxurious privileges on level 21. The club floor pool is covered, but unless it rains, guests will barely notice that they are actually relaxing indoors due to the open air design concept of Oasia Hotel Downtown. In the evenings, grab a complimentary cocktail or three when refreshments are served at the club lounge and bring them over to one of the poolside cabanas or cushy armchairs. When a cool breeze prances through, it’s likely that for a moment, you’ll forget that you’re in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world, and fall into a reverie of lying somewhere on a private island.

Alternative dinner recommendations: Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant, Keong Saik Road

Many great Japanese restaurants source their fish directly from Japan, but not many actually cultivate their own, in-house. Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant does exactly that: cultivate live eel in their own in-house pond, catch, gut, prep, marinate, grill, and serve in a very appetising platter, all within the confines of a compact corner shoplot off Keong Saik Road. Don’t be squirmish, because a glass wall with bar seating is all that separates kitchen operations from the front of house. Follow the instructional comic explaining the four ways to enjoy that large bowl of super fresh unagi rice for maximum enjoyment, and conclude with a glass of draft Suntory beer. Go early to avoid extra long lines.

If this is what it means to refresh, refuel and recharge at Oasia Hotels, then we’re all for doing it again and again. Visit Far East Hospitality for more.

Luminescent Ideal: Rado x Big-Game True Phospho

The True Phospho is the second in a series of six watches where Rado collaborates with today’s up and coming modern designers across multiple genres. Today, we look at the work of Big-Game.

According to Robert Grosseteste, thirteenth century English philosopher, theologian andmagister scholarium of Oxford University (read: Chancellor), “Light is truly the principle of all beauty”. It is in this principle of light and colour that beauty and ornament of all that is visible becomes illuminated. Thus when Rado teamed up with Big Game to produce the limited edition timepiece in the tradition of their signature design approach, the Rado True Phospho was expected to be emblematic of the metaphysics enunciated by men like Grosseteste, St. Thomas Aquina and Bonaventure – light’s aesthetic importance brought beauty to life as witnessed by countless stained glass murals from the period of the Renaissance.

degàd, Augustin Scott de Martinville, Elric Petit, Grégoire Jeanmonod

A Luminescent Ideal: Rado x Big-Game True Phospho

The award winning trio of designers at Big Gamehave charmed the world with their simple yet optimistic works, often featured as part of the collections of the Museum fuer Gestaltung, the Musée du Grand-Hornu, the Centre Georges Pompidou as well as the MoMA: What we have in the Rado True Phospho is beauty set a glow, a modern interpretation of thirteenth century principles of beauty. Where the manifestation of light is given full attention and play in a house of matt black high-tech ceramic case with matching bracelet. The Rado x Big-Game True Phospho embraces minimalism while simultaneously adopting playful, unexpected maximalist attitudes thanks to the perforated black brass dial which not just allows the myriad of mechanical elements to peek through but also framed with the high tech, Tron-like afterglow of geometrically shaped SuperLumiNova indexes.

“Time is the most precious thing in the world so getting to work on a wristwatch is a unique chance for designers because you’re making something that measures time.” – Augustin Scott de Martinville, one of the trio of Big-Game designers

Indeed, the 40 mm matt black high-tech ceramic watch with glowing face makes a true statement for the measurement of time. With luminiscient indexes casting light from beneath the honeycomb dial, the Rado True Phospho, a limited edition timepieces with Big-Game’s signature approach elevates one of Rado’s most popular watch families. A sweeping dance of light as the seconds hand powered by the ETA C07.631 with 80 hours power reserve sweeps past the world’s most elemental geometrics – the line, the circle and the triangle.

“The two keywords of this project are minimalist and lightness. We decided to approach the design of the watch but taking out rather than adding to the watch.” – Gregoire Jeanmonod, one of the trio of Big-Game designers

Skeletonised movements tend to be a hit or miss when it comes to most watch aficionados but with the Rado x Big-Game True Phospho, both extremes of the spectrum get to find a middle ground – a watch with automatic mechanism display its delicate interplay of gears, wheels and pinions. On the other, the ticking clockwork is kept in shadow until the delicate glow of the Phospho’s indexes happen to cast its luminescence in the direction of its machinations.

“With the True Phospho they succeeded in creating something quintessentially
Rado: simple, beautiful and innovative.” – Rado CEO Matthias Breschan

According to the team at Big-Game, “We like the contrast between the matt black ceramic and the phosphorescent Super-LumiNova coating, this colour is not only beautiful, but also functional, as it allows the wearer to read the time in the dark ” Limited to 1003 pieces, 1000 for the general public and one for each of the designers, the Rado x Big Game True Phospho is characterized by functionality, simple shapes, and a touch of the unexpected – what results is a watch with high distinctive character and innovative, radiant beauty.

Limited to 1003 pieces, the Rado True Phospho features Big-Game’s signature style housed in one of Rado’s most sought-after watch designs. Check out the previous Rado timepiece, the True Blaze featuring Sam Amoia’s signature style. Click to find to out more.

From: Luxuo.

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Interview: Sothys Beauty Trainer Cinthia Montoro Shares Essential Skin Care Tips for Maintaining Youthful Skin

Who says women can’t have it all – from a high-flying career to motherhood, and a fit body to glowing skin, regardless of age.

With the latter, Parisian skincare brand Sothys has launched a five new youth creams to help prevent premature ageing from environmental damage, sleepless nights, long days in an air-conditioned office and a multitude of other factors that would cause our skin to show wear and tear.

The creams – Redensifying Youth Cream, Restructuring Youth Cream, Firming Youth Cream, Wrinkle Targeting Youth Cream and Vitality Youth Cream – are a follow up to the line of youth serums that were introduced earlier this year, designed to be used in tandem. Every one of the five creams are formulated with their own unique blend of ingredients, have different textures and as the names suggest, serve different skin types.

But the one key element every type of cream contains is a revolutionary trio of ingredients, trademarked by Sothys as the βP3 Tri-complex™. Created at Sothys advanced research facilities, the βP3 Tri-complex combines active ingredients from two types of botanicals, saffron and sophora flowers, with double-acting peptides that fight oxidative damage, while activating cell regeneration within our skin.

A week of applying the youth cream most suited for your skin type will quite likely yield happy results, but you can enhance your journey to attaining youthful skin even further with a third step: a consultation at a Sothys salon for the Youth Intensive Treatment, a 1 hour and 45-minute facial that applies βP3 Tri-complex™ products using 32 Digi-Esthétique® movements, acupressure and massage methods designed to lift and reduce wrinkles.

We spoke to a professional, Sothys International Trainer, Cinthia Montoro to find out more about the Youth Intensive Treatment, as well as good daily skincare habits to follow for maintaining youthful skin.

How the Age-Defying, Sothys Youth Intensive Treatment Works

LuxuoMY: Tell us more about how the Youth Intensive Treatment works

Cinthia Montoro: The treatment is almost two hours and it’s only available in Sothys beauty salons. It’s designed to reduce up to six years off the skin in the course of three treatments.

LuxuoMY: Up to six years? That seems impossible!

CM: It can be possible. The Youth Intensive Treatment uses products with very active ingredients, which are the same ingredients used for the Youth Creams. We really push the labs very hard to find the best extracts that really fight off wrinkles and slackened skin problems. The star of the whole programme is the beta-P3 (βP3) tri-complex that combats environmental ageing, which we know now, is about 70-80 percent of ageing, and the rest is chronological ageing.

LuxuoMY: Can you walk me through the steps of the Youth Intensive Treatment?

CM: Yes!

First, we use a cleansing product to remove makeup, impurities and dust from pollution.

Then we have a two-step scrub. The first application is a pre-exfoliating lotion that contains phytic acid and glycolic acid. We want vigorous action that will remove dead cells from your face and prepare the skin for the next product, which is the renewal exfoliating paste. It’s a creamy paste containing grains of rice, volcanic rock sediment and antibacterial action, which is left on the face for 2 minutes to let the enzymes do its work. We use mechanical scrubbing to apply and remove the paste. At this point, you will already be able to see a lot of radiance on your skin.

Next step is the serum application. We have a new multi-zoning concept that targets specific areas with two serums. One is the wrinkle zone youth serum, which we use on the upper part of the face, around the eyes and around the lips. The other is the lift zone youth serum, which has a firming effect that we use on the cheeks, neck and neckline.

On top of merely applying the two serums, we have specific hand techniques that we use for anti-wrinkling and firming, to create a synergistic effect between the two serums and the hands of the beautician.

After the serum, comes the toning modelling balm and massage using the Digi-Esthétique technique to get a lifting and plumping effect. All our beauticians are trained in this technique and in fact, Digi-Esthétique is applied even at the scrub stage to help their clients relax throughout the entire treatment.

The last step is the 12-minute mask and we have three: two under masks, dermo-filling mask and dermo-lifting mask that go directly onto the face and target specific areas. On top of the two is the lifting peel-off mask to help the other two penetrate the skin better. During the 12 minutes, we apply digital pressure on the scalp.

Finally, depending on the client’s skin type, we apply the youth serum and a youth cream at the end of the treatment.

LuxuoMY: What are some skin maintenance tips every woman should follow to keep their skin healthy?

CM: The most important part of the routine is to clean the skin well because when you don’t, the products applied will not be as effective as it can be.

You should also check regularly for signs of ageing by feeling it and examining it in the mirror carefully. Our face makes about 15,000 movements and contractions every day and that creates expression wrinkles. If you are involved in monitoring your own skin, your beautician can give you better advice for a personalised home routine.

A daytime routine and a nighttime routine are both essential. During the day, you are exposed to pollution and UV rays. At night, your skin needs rejuvenation and rest. You can’t eliminate one or the other, as they complement one another.

A skincare routine for someone who is always pressed for time should at least include some key products. In the morning: cleanser, serum and a day cream that protects from a harsh environment. At night: cleanser, a serum and a night cream.

And for those who smile a lot, I recommend an eye contour. Smiling is great, but it does create a lot of fine lines, which will become deeper. Personally, I smile a lot, that’s why I am concerned about this. I would not encourage anyone to stop smiling, because you should always be yourself!

For more, visit sothys.com.my.

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Corum Unveils New “American Spirit” Coin Watches

Corum US Gold Coin automatic-winding watch in 22K 3N yellow-gold with “Double Eagle” emblem

Corum releases three new heritage coin watches of which two revisit the essence of “American Spirit” in-line with style and defining moments of the brand’s history when Corum first ventured into watchmaking and tackled the technical possibilities in the late 1950s. In pursuing its path towards excellence, “creativity” and “boldness” were its guiding principles in constructing more significant pieces that would spark curiosity, evoke interest and worn by people.

The 925 Silver Coin watch is fitted with a blue alligator strap and the Corum logo is transferred under the sapphire glass for a one-of-its-kind look

“This case structure allows us to use coins from currencies the world over – and makes all sorts of custom options possible.” – Corum’s CEO Jérôme Biard

The first coin watch from Corum was first conceptualised in 1964 and made to portray a simplistic style with understated luxury, which has left a lasting impression on two consecutive generations of collectors – President George Bush Sr., Ronald Reagan, Lyndon Johnson, Jimmy Carter, Richard Nixon and Bill Clinton.

This season, three new models are added to the Coin collection: 925 Silver Coin, 22K 3N yellow-gold “Double Eagle” Coin and 925 Silver Coin with Corum logo transferred under the sapphire glass. Two versions of the 925 Silver Coin watches are powered by the Corum CO 082 calibres. The first, is made of sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective surface. The second, features a diamond crystal and both boast a guaranteed power reserve of up to 42 hours.

Corum US Gold Coin automatic-winding watch

Perhaps, a more distinctive part of the automatic-winding watch is the display of an authentic dollar coin with 22K 3N yellow-gold “Double Eagle” emblem, which can be seen through the case back. Bordered by a 43 mm round-shaped 3N 18K yellow-gold case, the hour and minute hand is finished in black vanish, and the side has a thickness of 7.6 mm. The automatic watch is controlled by a 18K yellow-gold crown and is water-resistant up to 10 m. Finally, the look of this timepiece is completed with an alligator leather strap secured with a 18K yellow-gold, 22mm by 18 mm tongue buckle.

The third piece is stunning, which is Corum’s special edition of the Coin model, flaunting a 43 mm silver case housing a commemorative coin, powered also by a Corum CO 082 automatic calibre with a 42-hour power reserve. This model pays tribute to the declaration of Israel’s independence in 1948. The alligator leather strap is used to complete the look of this timepiece secured to a stainless steel tongue buckle.

“The three new Coin Watches also demonstrate that our Heritage collection is very much alive. Our heritage is not immutable; rather, it is living, creative, and constantly changing.” – concludes Corum’s CEO Jérôme Biard.

Words by Andrea Sim.

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Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur Dining Events: Shanghai Hairy Crabs and Australian Wagyu

Chef Christopher James Millar of Stellar in Singapore will present modern Australian wagyu beef dishes at the Library from October 31 to November 4.

Australian Wagyu Dinner at the Library

You might not have the views that Stellar restaurant in Singapore has to offer, but that’s quite alright, you probably didn’t come here for that anyway. For five days, the Library will host Christopher James Millar, Stellar’s award-winning chef who is set to wow guests with his latest creations. Dishes will combine top grade Wagyu beef with seasonal ingredients for dishes like: Sturia Caviar on Crème Fraiche Cracker, Wagyu Tri-Tip Tataki with Truffle Mascarpone and Olive Soil, Rock Rose Gin Marinated Salmon with Oyster, Avocado and Ikura, Wagyu Petit Tender Over The Coals with Sea Urchin, Wasabi and Paris Mash, Pickled and Braised Wagyu Beef Cheek with Roasted Cauliflower Cream and Porcini. This 6-course meal is RM350 nett, whilst the wine pairing option at RM500 nett is set to take you around the globe with a joyful variety of reds and whites from France, Germany and Australia.

Available from October 31 to November 4 from 7pm until 11pm, the six-course dinner is priced at MYR350 per person. A wine pairing option is available at MYR500 per person. For reservations and enquiries, contact +60 3 2142 8000 or email [email protected].

Guest chef Chan Chee Hoong from JW Marriott’s Shanghai restaurant serves up a special hairy crab inspired menu for a limited time at Liyen.

Shanghai Hairy Crabs at Liyen

For those living in the Yangcheng Lake region in China, the autumn season means the return of the hairy crabs, but you don’t have to be envious. From October 10 to November 10, Liyen Restaurant at the Ritz Carlton brings this delicacy over for the enjoyment of Ritz-Carlton KL guests and the public. Highly sought after for its savoury-sweetness and creamy roe, Liyen offers a setting so elegant, you won’t even have to peel your own steamed crabs if you decide not to. To augment your steamed crabs meal, a special menu of crab-inspired dishes prepared by Chef Chan Chee Hoong, are available to order: try the Steamed Shanghainese Meat Dumplings with Hairy Crab Roe, Braised Shanghainese Noodles with Hairy Crab Roe and Braised Bean Curd Casserole with Hairy Crab Roe. And if you miss it, the hairy crustaceans will return next year at JW Marriott’s Shanghai restaurant. But don’t miss it.


Li Yen is located on Level Two of The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur. Lunch is served from 12.00pm to 2.30pm from Monday to Saturday and 10.30am to 2.30pm on Sundays and Public Holidays. Dinner is available from 6.30pm to 10.30pm daily. For more, call +60 3 2782 9033 or email [email protected].

Interview: Youtube Violin Sensation Robert Mendoza in KL for Chivas Collab Presents: ETM

Robert Mendoza, whose Youtube channel has received over 100 million views for his violin covers of popular music is in KL for Chivas Collab Presents: ETM.

Energetic dance routines, DJs, ninjas, medieval maidens, fire breathers and an aerialist made their appearances during the 90-minute Electronic Theatrical Music performance, presented by Chivas Collab last Friday at Envy Night club. But it was violinist Robert Mendoza who made an impression on the estimated 800 millennial party-goers with a rousing electric violin solo, performing catchy ad libs on popular tracks and steadily keeping the momentum at a climb during his turn on stage. A classically-trained musician, Mendoza concentrated on the violin and piano at the Seville Conservatory of Music, and was formerly a violinist for the Royal Symphonic Orchestra of Seville for 6 years. Not many do a crossover from classical to electronic, but when they do, we’d like to think they’d be as successful as Mendoza in capitalising their talent: two years after starting his Youtube channel, Mendoza is a viral sensation. Collectively, his videos have 100 million Youtube views, 737K followers on FB, nearly 100k followers on Instagram and is a signed artist with Universal music. We caught up with Mendoza earlier this week for a casual, ‘get-to-know-Robert-Mendoza’ chat.

LuxuoMY: How did you like performing at ETM last weekend?
Robert Mendoza: It was funny! I’m looking forward to doing it again in Penang.

LuxuoMY: What are three things you can’t live without?
RM: My music, my family and my iPhone.

LuxuoMY: Are you doing any other performances while in KL?
RM: Yes, I’m performing on the 25th and the 26th at the Le Meridien with a few other local Universal artists — Alvin Chong, Sid Murshid and Eunice Hoo.

LuxuoMY: When did you take up the violin?
RM: When I was 8 years old.

LuxuoMY: How old are you now?
RM: As of October 24, I am 34.

LuxuoMY: Is the violin your only instrument?
RM: Yes, professionally. When composing, I use the piano.

LuxuoMY: When did you start your Youtube channel?
RM: Two years ago.

LuxuoMY: What made you start your Youtube channel in the first place?
RM: The truth? I was at home one afternoon feeling bored. So I decided to start a Youtube channel as an experiment.

LuxuoMY: How does it feel to have over 100 million views on Youtube?
RM: It’s incredible. I never expected that much at the beginning. It’s a motivation for me to keep doing it.

LuxuoMY: What’s a food you can eat any time, any day?
Chocolate. Even though I shouldn’t.

LuxuoMY: Have the artists of the songs you cover ever given feedback on your version of their music?
RM: Maluma and Luis Fonzi have shared my covers on their Instagram and Facebook.

GRACIAS Y MÁS GRACIAS!! #feliceslos4 #FelicesLos4Cover ??????

A post shared by MALUMA (@maluma) on

LuxuoMY: Is the purple violin your favourite to perform with?
RM: Yes, it’s a Mark Wood electric violin. The sound quality is great, and it allows for a lot of free movement.

LuxuoMY: Any plans to release original tracks on violin?
RM: I’m working on a new album which will have covers and original music. It won’t be in any particular genre, but it will have my personal style. It’s a work in progress.

LuxuoMY: If you could collaborate with any artist in the world, who would it be?
Coldplay.

LuxuoMY: Favourite drink at a bar?
RM: A soda.

LuxuoMY: Can you share a favourite memory from your childhood?
RM: I got my first violin when I was eight. After we brought it back from the shop, my father asked me to play something on it but when I did, there was no sound. So we called the shop, and I found out that I had to apply resin to the bow before playing it!

LuxuoMY: What’s your personal philosophy in life?
RM: I have it tattooed on my arm. It says: Surprise yourself with what you are able to do.”

LuxuoMY: Cat person or dog person?
RM: Both!

Catch Robert Mendoza at the next Chivas Collab presents ETM at Ozoo Club, Penang on October 28.

Designed by Pritzker-Winning Architect Jean Nouvel, Le Nouvel, KLCC Offers Luxury Living at its Finest in the Heart of Kuala Lumpur

Le Nouvel, KLCC

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s pulsating centre of socioeconomic activity, boasts an increasingly integrated transport network, affordable living and a highly-skilled, English-speaking community that makes it conducive for multinational companies in the fields of finance, education, electronics and petroleum to set up a hub in Kuala Lumpur. Social and political stability, up-to-date infrastructure and a closely regulated property market have also positioned Malaysia as an ideal location in Southeast Asia for investors and consumers alike.

Today, a number of new developments around the immediate vicinity of the Petronas Twin Towers have emerged, but few stand out quite as prominently as the dual-tower residence of Le Nouvel KLCC by Wing Tai Asia. Its façade is accented by abundant, well-kept tropical vines creeping down the towers. Situated within this highly sought-after address and sitting on premium real estate, Le Nouvel KLCC faces the Petronas Twin Towers and Suria KLCC, and is well-situated amid high-end shopping centres, top hotels and corporate offices. There is a RapidKL LRT station nearby and the upcoming Singapore- Kuala Lumpur high-speed rail station is just a short drive away, making it a convenient address for a second home within the region.

Luxury Interior Design Series living room “Living in as Italian Style” at the Le Nouvel, KLCC.

Apart from its prestigious and convenient location, Le Nouvel KLCC could be considered an architectural masterpiece. Conceived by principal architect Jean Nouvel, whose signature works showcase his keen perception for the intricacies of light, shadow, transparency and opacity. The Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate has won almost every major accolade in architecture. In
2013, he won a competition to design the National Art Museum of China in Beijing. Other inventive works include the Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi, (slated to open in November 2017,) and the Tour de Verre in New York.

For this project, Nouvel collaborated with internationally renowned design luminaries such as lighting designer Hervé Descottes, landscape artist Patrick Blanc and the award winning interior designer Koichiro Ikebuchi. Throughout the Le Nouvel KLCC property, those signature design elements are apparent. Once past the 24-hour security gate, a wall fountain greets residents and guests, twinkling from sunlight reflecting off the water. Walls and pillars around the property are of glazed stucco— a material requiring skillful application—and changes in appearance throughout the day due to light and shadow play.

Luxury Interior Design Series master bedroom “Living in an Italian Style” at the Le Nouvel, KLCC.

The details aren’t limited to construction alone, for unique design elements are also integrated into the building’s elements. Around 200 species of native tropical climbing plants grows on 8 sides of the Le Nouvel KLCC facade, collected by Dr. Patrick Blanc, a noted French botanist specialising in tropical plants, credited for popularising the vertical garden concept.

Le Nouvel, KLCC: Luxury Condo Living in the Heart of Kuala Lumpur

Le Nouvel KLCC offers 195 luxurious apartments that are spread across two towers spanning 43 and 49 stories respectively, and conveniently connected by a pool deck on level seven and a Sky Bridge on level 34. Here, you will be privy to an exquisite panorama of the city from the Sky Gallery, housed inside the linked bridge on level 34. It also houses the Sky Lounge, Cigar Lounge, Sky Kitchen and Sky Dining where you can indulge in delectable bring-your-own cuisine, cigars and wine. Tower One features 78 units comprising two, three and four-bedroom suites, two Simplex units and two penthouses. Tower Two offers 117 units of two to three-bedroom suites and two penthouses. Selected units in Tower Two are now available for preview, of which some of these are fully furnished and in move-in condition.

Interiors are plush and refined, featuring beautifully appointed furnishings and artful, detailing such as bespoke silkscreened window panels, with unique designs in each residence. White marble flooring, Poggenpohl designed kitchens, Miele household appliances and Lema wardrobes enhance the luxurious settings. Premium facilities abound. Swimming pools, a state-of the-art gym, and an expansive yoga room beckon, as do family-friendly facilities such as spacious game, theatre and karaoke rooms.

For a private viewing to Le Nouvel KLCC, be sure to call ahead for an appointment at 603 2181 8536. www.lnklcc.com

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Cartier Tank is Celebrating its 100th Anniversary. Here’s a Look at Three Iconic Tank Collections

Andy Warhol was a well-known fan of the Tank.

The Cartier Tank watch has been the timepiece of choice for history’s biggest style icons – Gary Cooper, Catherine Deneuve, Andy Warhol and Yves Saint Laurent, just to name a few – and after a hundred years, remains as fashionable as it is highly sought after. Clear-cut lines and a strict, measured composition continue to forge the powerful style and character of the pure, enduring and timeless Cartier Tank collections.

The year was 1917. It was a rare, boldly minimalist design for a wristwatch. Four lines with two parallel shafts, and a sapphire cabochon on the crown and a leather strap, Louis Cartier himself deliberately eschewed the ornate Art Nouveau look that was enjoying its heyday at the time. Though this should not come as a surprise since his avant-garde jewellery designs had always been known for their geometric lines and shapes.

Inspired by the Renault tanks that he saw from the Western Front, the Tank embodied a powerful vision. The story goes that Louis modelled the design of the watch on the top view of a tank: the brancards evoked the treads and the case represented the cockpit of the vehicle. Shaking traditional habits and ushering unprecedented innovations into the workshop, it became one of the sensations in the world of watchmaking instantaneously.

Formal research was conducted into aligning the circle of the hours with the strap, as well as paring down the overall presentation. The ultimate goal was seamless integration of the lugs and the case as an extension of the strap. To put it another way, the strength of the Tank design lays in its dramatic break with the elaborate curves fashionable at the time and the exercise of restraint in its form.

Fast-forward to today, the Tank has reached a century old. While bridging one era to the other, it gives rise to a resolutely modern way of life centred around three cult models: the Tank Louis Cartier, the Tank Américaine and the Tank Française – all of which exemplify the epitome of style and elegance.

Tank Louis Cartier

First created in 1922, the Tank Louis Cartier watch is one of the Maison’s classic watches. It fastidiously embodies the marked contribution made by Louis Cartier to the modern style later known as Art Deco: the proud, taut lines of the square, softened corners and horns incorporated into the case. Exhibiting smooth harmony all the way to the middle, today, the model offers two new faces, both powered by a manual-winding mechanical movement: a choice of pink or white gold in a women’s watch with diamond-set brancards or a fine, elegant, pink gold model. The slimline XL version with a thickness of just 5.1mm, which symbolises ultimate expression of masculinity and refinement, is destined for greatness, we say.

Tank Américaine

Borrowing the curved case of the Tank Cintrée while updating the design with a more compact rectangular form and rounded brancards, created in 1987 and launched in 1989, the Tank Américaine played with geometry, alternating stark and softened edges, straight lines and curves, rounded corners and angles. It was also the first Cartier watch to offer a curved water-resistant case. Asserting a strong presence on the wrist, the new Tank Américaine is just as elegant and comfortably wearable, while expressing the spirit of the original Tank in its contemporary, understated aesthetic.

Tank Française

When unveiled in 1996, the Tank Française shocked fans (in a good way) with its transformed stylistic features of the Tank watches. While the bold lines and rounded edges, “rail-track” minute circle, sword-shaped hands and faceted winding crown adorned with a sapphire cabochon stayed, the attachment of the case to the metal bracelet reconfigured the design of the side brancards. That, however, did not stop it from being an immediate success when it was launched. The shape asserted itself in the curved case and bracelet, which formed a continuity of lines, volume and material. This stunning, streamlined watch has now been
liberated by combining the stainless steel with a diamond setting.

From: L’Officiel Malaysia, September 2017.

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Good Old Times: Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 Military

The Vintage BR V1-92 Military which is part of the 3rd generation of the Vintage Collection.

When looking at the new Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 Military, I am often reminded that  though Edwin Starr often opined sang that “war is good for absolutely nothing”, I am forced to consider the historical irony that much of the technology we depend on today began either as accidents or repurposed military technology for civilian use. While deeply destructive, wars eventually provide economic, technological and even social development. As evidenced by the 1916 issue of The New York Times, editorial on July 9th published an op-ed on the “changed status of the wristwatch” and that the necessity of modern warfare had demonstrated the need for officers and soldiers to denote time in an efficient manner and that the only practical way for a vintage military watch to be used was to be worn on the wrist where time could be readily and easily ascertained, an impossibility with the old pocket style watch.

Thus, when Bell & Ross introduced the WW1-92 Military 45mm, I particularly enjoyed the cultural nod from that pivotal era in human history when the move of the watch from pockets to wrists came about through sheer necessity and invention when military men took pocket watches and soldered wire loop lugs to the cases, and then threaded canvas straps through them before fastening them unto wrists. The follow up with the Vintage BR V1-92 Military is a step in a more modernist direction for urban warriors, smaller in diameter, an eminently more wearable case and evolved design made for a winning combination in one small, uniquely versatile, reasonably priced watch.

The Vintage BR V1-92 Military follows the horological evolutionary path of the the Second World War, adopting the B-Uhr (short for Beobachtungsuhr, or Observer) aesthetic for the watch dial. Image: Jonathan Ho

Where the Bell & Ross Vintage WW1 (Wrist Watch 1) pays tribute to the first wristwatches worn by pilots in the 1920s with its historical large fob watch type diameter and wire lugs, the Vintage BR V1-92 Military follows the horological evolutionary path of the the Second World War, adopting the B-Uhr (short for Beobachtungsuhr, or Observer) aesthetic for the watch dial, similar in countenance to another iconic military watch style formerly supplied to German Luftwaffe during World War II but lacking the dimensions of your typical pilot’s watch.

At its heart, the Vintage BR V1-92 is a back to basics watch. Its strength lies in the simple utilitarian functionality of the watch, stripped of all obvious bells and whistles, the legibility and undeniable practicality of the new Bell & Ross BR V1-92 is where the maison has found keen footing in not just historic inspiration but in heritage re-interpretation.

The marker at 12 of the Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 Military follows typical military aviation specs, that is to say, a triangle flanked by dot markers. Image: Jonathan Ho

Executed in a 38.5mm stainless steel case, Bell & Ross has evoked the spartan ideals of strict military codes in a satin-brush finished timepiece and yet by virtue of its size, a highly versatile watch for work and play. The new Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 Military marks a departure from that age of “pocket watch conversion” which meant large cases but instead, embraces re-interpretation with more restrained proportions and a minimalist approach.

While the marker at 12 follows typical military aviation specs, that is to say, a triangle flanked by dot markers, its modernist design is countered by its period authentic World War II dial with 5-minute markings, a throwback to the necessity of second to second calculations for projectile trajectory, ranging or to calculate their direction or speed. While and Bell & Ross could have opted for an expected canvas or NATO strap, they pair the new “Military” of the Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 with lightly aged brown leather – it’s vintage but not necessarily faux antique.

The encircled “MT” insignia sells the appeal of a true Military Time – piece. Image: Jonathan Ho

The antiquity is reinforced with patinated baton indexes contrasted with white minute rail and numerals, thoroughly selling the military DNA of the Vintage BR V1-92, with the tritium-esque luminous paint, partnered with the period-authentic red ‘MT’ inscription at 6 which military aficionados will recognise as a symbol for “military time”.

Equipped with a Sellita based SW-200 automatic calibre, the Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 Military is reliable and more importantly, affordable. That said the date window which occupies the space between 20 and 25 serves as a little niggling reminder of what might otherwise be one of the most well designed vintage-military inspired watches to date.

Bell & Ross Vintage BR V1-92 Military Price and Spec:

Case 38.5mm satin stainless steel with100m water resistant
Movement Automatic calibre BR-CAL.302 with 38 hour power reserve
Strap Brown leather strap with steel pin buckle

From: Luxuo.

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Luxury Kidswear: The Next Big Market for Luxury

All aboard the luxury childrenswear train. Image: Gucci Kids A/W 2017

In this current retail climate, luxury brands are downsizing. That is to say, they’re creating kid versions of their adult lines, catering to an ever younger market through luxury kidswear. Thanks to millennials and the growing number of celebrity couples churning out million dollar babies, the resulting social media frenzy from the Beckhams, Wests and Jolie-Pitts have changed the conversation from one of discovering new mediums for consumer engagement to now appealing to an entirely different class of consumer – the kids, through the most emotionally compromised shoppers on the planet, their parents.
Business of Luxury: Childrenswear, The Next Big Luxury Market

When popular English footballer David Beckham arrived at JFK airport in New York City in 2014, little was said about him, many of the reports were focused on his young daughter Harper and her chic hat and peacoat ensemble.

From Kingston and Zuma Rossdale (Gwen Stefani’s kids), to the scions of English Royalty: Prince George (UK Kidfluencer Prime according Forbes no less) and Princess Charlotte, fashion influencer clout is no longer wielded by over-exposed parents like Kim Kardashian but rather their celebrity offspring: North West, Suri Cruise and the like.

Left: Harper Beckham arriving at JFK with father, David. Right: Kingston Rossdale, son of Gwen Stefani

Their innocence, wrapped in a trapping of luxury, style and sometimes, attitude contributes to the appeal of whatever ensemble they happen to be rocking at the moment and luxury brands are only just beginning to entertain the idea of luxury kidswear, especially in developing economies like India, China, Indonesia and Singapore.

Luxury Brands Taking Baby Steps

According to The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India, the luxury kidswear market in India is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20%, hitting 95,000 crore or US$14 billion in 2016, making India one of the fast growing markets for the luxury kidswear segment.

Gucci, SS17

Similarly, the luxury kidswear genre is also growing in China, fuelled by twin phenomena – the now defunct one child policy, which led to parents indulging in lavish gifts for their progeny as well as the issue of that of fu er dai – a Chinese term which literally refers to the second generation wealthy, millennials used to growing in such opulent lifestyles that the children they sire, also lead similar lifestyles and a propensity towards luxury. These are trends which statistics from the China Research Centre for Children’s Industry also reflect where the projected baby boom through till 2021 will see the mainland’s under-16 population grow over 400 million. In the Asia-Pacific region, luxury kidswear is expected to grow at a pace of 5.3% per annum in Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore as well.

The phenomena of burgeoning luxury sales in the children’s segment is reflected not just in the numbers but in media as well. According to Business of Fashion, Hypebeast, an industry pioneer in online luxury streetwear commentary launched Hypekids in March 2017, a new children’s vertical when Founder Kevin Ma, saw big data trends in his Hypebeast audience growing up and having kids.

“I think it’s a natural progression for us,” – Kevin Ma, Founder, Hypebeast

Launching with Kids Foot Locker as a sponsor, Hypekids will include style news and features on designers with their kids, as well as sell children’s items on Hypebeast’s global e-commerce platform, HBX. The site further posits that millennial parents — who are dressing their children in the same clothes as they dress themselves — are the driving force of the industry.

Balmain Kids

Additionally, rising purchasing power serves as another driver growth in the luxury kidswear segment and the market for designer childrenswear has also been spurred by increasing brand consciousness and the proliferation of online digital platforms which not only grow interest for ensembles for million dollar babies but also serve as a kind of new status symbol – you are no longer judged by what you wear but also what your kids wear, that aside, the reality is that while many millennials aren’t too fussy with what they wear, they certainly are cognisant of the fact that their children are growing up in cultural environs vastly different from that for their era.

 The Business of Luxury Kidswear

In 2013, the first Global Kids Fashion Week launched in London to mixed reception but even with social criticism, the genre continued to grow, encouraged by Burberry, an early adopter, selling $91 million in luxury kidswear in 2014, encouraging the entry of major luxury brands into the arena of childrenswear: Gucci, Armani, Fendi and recently Karl Lagerfeld in 2016 (UPDATE: Givenchy has just launched their kids line) have each launched clothing and accessories lines targeted specifically at children. Given that high street apparel brands like Zara, H&M and Marks & Spencer had found lucrative business in the childrenswear genre, it was only a matter of time before the bigwigs caught on.

Marc Jacobs Kids, officially – Little Marc Jacobs 2014

According to Singapore Tatler, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands Singapore was leading the charge in children’s luxury retail, opening a slew of standalone boutiques in 2014 –  Baby Dior, Fendi Kids and Ralph Lauren Children; and then adding to their portfolio of luxury children’s stores: Dolce & Gabbana Junior and Armani Junior in 2015-16.

“In today’s environment of exclusivity and quality, the retail experiences that the market is catering for adults and children are on par, this can be seen in numerous aspects, from the calibre of designs released by renowned fashion houses, to the extensive selection of apparel, right down to the VIP treatment.” – John Postle, vice president of retail at Marina Bay Sands to Singapore Tatler

In China alone, as many as 90% of kidswear labels have their own standalone boutiques but the rise of e-commerce is threatening to move this major market online: Net-a-Porter, a trailblazer in luxury eCommerce, registered the Petite-a-Porter domain name in 2013 (Though nothing has been launched at the moment).  Currently, former Vogue editors Sylvana Ward Durrett and Luisana Mendoza, have themselves launched Maisonette, a Farfetch-style platform that sells a curated selection from children’s boutiques.

Oscar de la Renta kids 2017

That said, while luxury childrenswear is booming, it isn’t exactly a new segment. In the early 70s, Dior and Ralph Lauren were pioneers to the kidswear genre but it must be said, they were likely too early as a nearly four decade drought persisted until Burberry, Chloe and Marc Jacobs reignited the furore. They were followed by Stella McCartney, Lanvin, Marni and Gucci, the latter being the most aggressive (by definition of campaign marketing). Even Oscar de la Renta is in on this, there’s no doubt that every self-respecting designer needs to have a children’s collection under the auspices of their brand. Surely a decisive strategy of building brand loyalty early and deepening their relationships with existing customers.

Currently, European and North American markets account for a major slice of the global kidswear market.  According to Euromonitor, 2015 sales for luxury kidswear reached $135.6bn worldwide and accounted for 12% of the overall clothing market, Meanwhile, research firm NPD Group Inc expects the luxury childrenswear market to hit US$ 173.6 billion by 2017 at CAGR of 4.2% driven by aggressive growth developing economies, particularly India and China where a healthy and growing middle class as well as targeted marketing by brands, increasing social media engagement and a spurt of international travel has created a cocktail of elements driving on luxury childrenswear consumption.

Will luxury watch brands follow suit? Image: Romain Jerome Hello Kitty

That said, rising labour costs do not bode well to the two largest consumers of luxury childrenswear as more and more luxury labels are forced to maintain margins by heading to Bangladesh where Zara, Massimo Dutti, Marks & Spencer, G-Star Raw and H&M are already present. Still, markets like Thailand and Taiwan are largely untapped and growth potential is immense and more importantly, imminently renewable as parents will attest to how quickly the little tykes outgrow their outfits.

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John Walker & Sons Introduces the XR-21 Mastery with a Gastronomic Adventure in Penang

Famous for its street art, hawker food and status as UNESCO heritage site, Penang draws crowds of visitors looking for a quintessential Chinese-Malaysian experience, with a decadent touch of throwback to a time where opulence in craftsmanship was expected; a norm even, in daily life. If there was any landscape that could be the anti-minimalist movement in Malaysia, the history-rich Georgetown, capital of Penang would lead the way in most elements of life, be it food, clothing, rituals and especially architecture.

Take the Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi clan house as an example of the latter, used by 19th century members of the wealthy Khoo clan, Straits merchants who travelled to Penang from the Hokkien province in China.

There are gold etchings all over the facade, stone walls carved with symbolic design and intricate pillars lined up along the patio. Ceramic dragons, a symbol of power and dynamism, traverse the thatched roof of the house, whilst two stone Gurkha soldiers, known for their military dedication and prowess stand guard as the first line of defense at the entrance into the clan house — if an attacker could ever get past them, then they should be prepared to meet the clan’s god and goddess protectors further up the steps.

Built in 1850, the clan house served as a social space, within a full village complex that was made up of institutions like governance, schools and finance. After a fire in 1901 destroyed the old clan house, Khoo Kongsi was rebuilt, and has undergone one or two restorations since then. Although it is said to be more modest than its predecessor, its intricate, early 20th century doesn’t fail to evoke a sense of grandeur from an onlooker.

With this background knowledge then, it is hardly a surprise, nor is it overstating for John Walker and Sons — a whisky label with its own rich heritage dating back to 1820 — to launch their newest, by-invitation only event, the XR-21 Mastery in the compound of the Khoo Kongsi clan house. In full view of a brightly lit Khoo Kongsi clan house, the evening launch saw media guests, Penangites and whisky connoisseurs congregate for an evening of entertainment and free-flow of XR-21 whisky, paired with a contemporary, Western-style dinner prepared by Penangite chefs — Spider Kong, chef and owner of Soul Food, a private dining establishment, and Jeffrey Tan, Head Pastry Chef at Métisser Pâtisserie & Tea Room. The main meal showcased chef Kong’s clever blend of local ingredients prepped using Western techniques produced fresh, palate pleasing dishes: Tiger Prawn Kerabu, Chicken Ravioli, and a choice of either Seared Barramundi or Tamarind Lamb. Chef Tan’s dessert masterpiece provided a delightful finale — an edible “tree” made of chocolate mousse and amra fruit.

Chef Jeffrey Tan (Left), the Head Pastry Chef at Métisser Pâtisserie & Tea Room and Chef Spider Kong (Right), Chef Owner of private dining restaurant, Soul Food.

Easy on the nose and smooth on the palate, XR-21 is taken from a blend of Johnnie Walker’s reserve of rare, 21 year old aged whiskies created based on master blender Sir Alexander Walker II’s personal tasting notes.

Tasting notes for the XR-21:

Colour : Golden, Orange Amber.
Nose : Orange zest emulsified in mild spice, a cross between pungent summer flowers and ripened fruits fill the senses. Citrus notes melds with pistachio hazelnut nougat. Bulrushes dipped in caramel arrive in a coach of maple syrup and honey.
Taste : Subtle notes of spiced vanilla, a sweet hint of honey and smoke wrapped in soothing spice.
Finish : Smooth finish.

And finally, for your viewing enjoyment, here’s a gallery of the evening’s dishes.

For more information on the XR 21 Mastery, which aims to feature local hidden gems and expertise in the culinary industry, contact [email protected].

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[GALLERY]: Here’s A Detailed Look at the New Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+

Happy 50th anniversary to the Mercedes-AMG. In true Malaysian style, we in KL celebrated the arrival of the latest and the most supreme rendition to date, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4MATIC+, with a grand celebration timed to coincide with the last ever F1 race in Sepang, including an appearance from Mercedes AMG-Petronas racer Lewis Hamilton.

The Highlights: Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4MATIC+

Engine: The latest AMG Performance 4MATIC+ is an all-wheel drive system, delivering acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, thanks to the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine — the most powerful engine to have ever been installed in an E-Class.

Upgrades: Innovative powertrain engineering and maximum performance are combined with distinctive design, exclusive equipment and the latest infotainment features for comprehensive, connected multimedia applications.

Exterior: Flaunts a new radiator grille and coupé-style inset bonnet, 20-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels and powerdomes on the inboard hood.

Interior: highly customisable, including sports seats with optimised lateral support, a 3-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather with flattened bottom section, as well as an AMG instrument cluster with AMG main menu including RACE TIMER and AMG start-up display.

Real Diamonds are Used in Swiss Line Cell Shock White’s Latest Brightening Diamond Serum

Diamonds truly are a girl’s best friend, and in Swiss Line’s Cell Shock White collection, it comes in the form of skin care products. Dermalab, the creators of Cell Shock White have reinforced the line’s skin brightening potency with a brand new serum that includes the unique use of diamond dust.

Swiss Line Cell Shock White collection launched in 2010, with Cellactel 2 White Complex as a key ingredient, to overall positive feedback. The latest Brightening Diamond Serum includes four ingredients: Spot-off Complex and HD-White Complex, which contain anti-oxidant rich and powerful whitening ingredients that tackle UV damage and age spots. A third ingredient is the innovative Syn®-ake, a peptide that relaxes your skin’s muscles and reduces wrinkles; whilst the fourth, clusters of diamond dust, is visually the most intriguing. Micronised diamonds are dispersed onto your skin’s surface and is said to create a sparkling finish.

To create a more effective, dual action brightening effect, Cell Shock White Brightening Diamond Serum comes in a bottle with two separate serum chambers, one with the whitening ingredients, the other with diamond clusters. Both liquids fuse when dispensed from the pump for smooth application that not only brightens your skin, but helps moderately with hydration.

Swiss Line Cell Shock White full collection.

The Brightening Diamond Serum retails at RM888.00. Swiss Line products are available at over 50 Cheerful Beautique member beauty salons nationwide in Malaysia. For the full list of Beautique member locations, visit cheerful.com.my.

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The Singleton of Glen Ord Introduces the Forgotten Drop Series

Sparingly lit and shrouded in secrecy. We were seated at a concealed dining area in a corner of Genting Club – ideal when you want to unwind and don’t want to be bothered. A private whisky pairing dinner is just such an occasion to coax The Singleton of Glen Ord’s annual Forgotten Drop Series from their new confines.

Ervin Trykowski, a global scotch whisky ambassador for The Singleton, describes the series as “a summation of tradition that instantly transports the drinker to the Scottish Highlands and is a representation of finite resources (at the distillery) that have been allowed to reach their absolute peak.” I had no cause whatsoever to doubt that there’s immense pressure to keep the standards set high and to maintain the quality of single malt whiskies produced under the watchful eye of master blender Maureen Robinson.

There are memories that stay with us our whole lives, whether we want them to or not. Here is one that we imagine will make the cut when it comes to imbibing ludicrously expensive liquids and admiring the viscimetric whorls when a dash of water is added. Along with a medium-rare sirloin steak served with Pomme Puree, onion confit and bone marrow juice, taking a sip of Singleton of Glen Ord 41-Year-Old revealed a surprisingly crisp and refreshing blend of apples, creamy toffee and, of all spices, cinnamon.

I also vaguely a hint of oak given the European and American oak casks that contained them during the duration. Said to leave a citrusy aftertaste, there are only 600 bottles available worldwide and only 24 bottles are allocated to Malaysia. They will set you back RM15,193 per bottle, parasitical credit card finance charges notwithstanding.

As a refined drinking experience, the brand proudly perfected the mashing of dried barley with water to produce wort. The subsequent process of fermentation with yeast, distillation, ageing and bottling is where the perfectly matured single blend is worth its weight in burning peat with Trykowski flippantly suggesting that this too would likely be his first (and last) dalliance with the quadragenarian.

On the other hand, the 18-Year-Old Cask Strength celebrates the distillery’s 180th anniversary as a limited edition release. It’s less spicy and hints of walnut and chocolate are evident. There’s a lingering fruitiness as well as ginger and honey. The price tag on this is a rather sensible RM624. Best enjoyed with the aforementioned sirloin or a hearty lamb rack served with dauphinoise and smoked bell pepper salad.

Lastly, the 15-Year-Old rounds up the trio of special releases that takes very little cajoling to get used to as it is medium bodied and has a soft citrus aroma on a mellow finish replete with suggestions of ginger and chocolate.

For more information, visit the Singleton website.

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Luxury Face Cream Menard Authent II Uses Stem Cell Technology to Revive Ageing Skin

After 8 years on the market, Japanese skincare brand Menard introduced a new version of its premium anti-ageing cream, the Menard Authent II.

The launch was held at an exclusive preview event in late September at the Nippon Menard Malaysian headquarters in Shah Alam. Authent II cream will be available in November and might be one of the more expensive face creams in 2017, as it retails at RM4,400 for 50g.

Formulated using knowledge derived from stem cell research, Authent II is designed to dissolve and travel deeper into your pores to encourage skin cell renewal that prevents anti-ageing. As adults, stem cells are stored in our body’s tissue. They act as a repair system, replenishing tissue in our muscles, bones, organs and skin as needed. The ingredients in Menard Authent II are said to be good stimulants for stem cell reproduction — three premium types of moisturising seed extracts: sweet cherry extract, purple barley seed extract and sterculia seed extract.

The new Authent Cream II is further augmented with an extra ingredient: Alba Semiplena rose extract, a type of “old rose”. When in bloom, this milk-white, medium-sized shrub rose is heavily sweet-scented, stays vibrant through colder weather and repels threats from pests well. It’s also said to be the type of rose depicted in “The Birth of Venus”, a 15th century painting by Sandro Botticelli. (While the white roses are more common, Botticelli’s painting depicts pale red ones.)

Use the Authent II cream twice daily after your regular skin cleansing routine. Then watch the days, weeks and perhaps even months of environmental damage, melt away.

For more, visit Menard.

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Men’s Folio Style Pick of the Week: Lanvin Homme ‘Nothing’ Scarf

Lanvin Homme ‘Nothing’ Scarf

You’ve undoubtedly seen the comeback of logo-mania this season, but as it turns out, you can beat the cold with “nothing”. (Ahem) Lanvin’s Lucas Ossendrijver makes a no-holds-barred, albeit ironic statement on anti-sloganism with this soft wool-blend scarf, featuring fringe-trimmed edges and the word “NOTHING” emblazoned for all to see. It’ll be sure to keep you warm in inclement weather, even if you’re just visiting our cold, cold Malaysian cinema theatres. lanvin.com

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Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Concept Store is Now Open at Pavilion KL

Located on the second floor, the store is about 1500 sq-feet and invites its patrons to discover more about the art of fine watchmaking and iconic style of the JLC Manufacture. Fans of the Reverso can head right up to the exclusive Reverso counter to witness their favourite timepiece upclose. Guests who prefer a more intimate shopping experience will enjoy the private sitting area in the back of the boutique.

Present for the occasion were: Geoffroy Lefebvre, Deputy CEO of The Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre, Maxence Kinget, Managing Director of Jaeger-LeCoultre South East Asia and Oceania and Reena Tan, Country Manager of Jaeger-LeCoultre Malaysia and Vietnam. Also present were the Swiss Embassy’s Charge d’affaires of Switzerland to Malaysia Mr Werner Bardill and Joyce Yap, CEO of Pavilion KL.

The party resumed at Pavilion Pitstop with cocktail and canapes, a runway show featuring JLC timepieces on the models’ wrists, and musical entertainment by Canadian singer, Janaia. Around the circular runway, guests were also treated to an exclusive showcase of heritage pieces, including a vintage pocket watch collection specially flown in for the launch, as well as fascinating timepieces like the Hybris Artistica Mysterieuse, Grand Complication like the Reverso Gyrotoubillion Tribute, The Master Minute Repeater Ultra Thin and also Enamel pieces with paintings from Van Gogh.

Blaze of Glory: Rado X Sam Amoia True Blaze

The True Blaze is the first in a series of six watches where Rado collaborates with today’s up and coming modern designers across multiple genres. Today, we look at the work of interior designer Samuel Amoia.

Recently named by Vogue as “one of the Young Interior Designers to Watch, Samuel Amoia is an interior and furniture designer based in New York city. In working on the Rado True Blaze, it becomes readily apparent that materials are fundamental to his work as a designer – from the high tech ceramic ‘canvas’ to his choice of galvanic creation process, the interior designer’s vision and ethos takes an otherwise hyper-clean, unblemished (and nigh tarnish-proof) ceramic Rado True and infuses it with a face of glorious blazing stars.

Blaze of Glory: Rado x Sam Amoia True Blaze

Amoia’s inspiration for the Rado True Blaze draws upon nature’s majesty through simple, honest materials; in creating the True Blaze, Amoia has created something interesting yet still clean and sculptural. Layered with texture, his design approach is strongest reflected in the dial of the True Blaze.

“I wanted to create a simple but innovative piece. Something that reflects my aesthetic and personal design philosophy,” – Sam Amoia

Limited to 1001 pieces, the Rado True Blaze is a celebration of glitz and glamour. 40mm plasma high-tech ceramic case notwithstanding, the dial, evocative of a club element from our disco days is an expression of not just art but material science: The silvery metallic dial is created by using a galvanic process that replicates the crystalline structure of diamond powder, what results is an ostentatious glittery explosion with minimalist feel thanks to the simple gold indexes and subtle Rado logo imbuing the Blaze with a sophisticated aesthetic.

“The True Blaze has such a powerful visual impact, which makes it the perfect embodiment of the Radospirit. Adding Sam Amoia’s unique design sensibility to our collection is a huge enrichment, both for the brand and for our customers.” – Rado CEO Matthias Breschan

While the Rado True collection encompasses quartz movements as well, Amoia’s True Blaze found voice in the sweeping passage of seconds courtesy of an automatic movement. It is a choice, Amoia explains, which allows the watch to better connect with the wearer.

Sam Amoia was astounded how much work goes into a Rado timepiece and the bespoke element of handcrafts even before his unique dial technique was applied. As a recent recipient of the “Rising Talent” award from the prestigious Parisian Maison & Objet fair, it speaks volumes about Rado.

Limited to 1001 pieces, the Rado True Blaze features Amoia’s signature style housed in one of Rado’s most sought-after watch designs. Find out more.

Words by Jonathan Ho.

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