Lifestyle

Lifestyle

Creating Malaysia’s Premier Team-Building Resort

The OE Resort, envisioned as Malaysia’s top team-building resort, had been developed with an investment of RM30 million. Its grand opening ceremony took place on Sunday, December 8th, at 5 PM. The event was open to the public, free of charge, and featured spectacular performances, including a 101-drum ensemble, lion and dragon dances, and fireworks. Miss Tourism International from 50 Countries Attended A highlight of the event was the attendance of Miss Tourism International contestants from 50 countries. Visitors had the opportunity to witness the elegance and charm of these international beauty queens in person, adding vibrancy to the celebration. Natural Setting and Unique Facilities Situated in Mantin, Negeri Sembilan, OE Resort spanned nine acres and had been designed over three years by Dato’ Wira Calvin Khiu, founder and chairman of the OE Young Entrepreneurs Academy. The site, formerly a durian orchard, had been transformed into a serene retreat surrounded by lush greenery, blending harmoniously with its natural environment. The resort offered a variety of accommodation options, including space-themed pods, A-frame cabins, and Japanese-inspired hillside villas, accommodating up to 200 guests at a time. Its facilities included a forest pool, themed restaurants, a conference hall, viewing platforms, and spa services, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience. Outdoor Activities for Recreation and Team Building Complementing its serene ambiance, OE Resort featured a wide range of outdoor activities, such as zip-lining (Flying Fox), water volleyball, beach soccer, and hiking. These activities provided recreation and fostered team-building experiences. The resort welcomed individuals, couples, families, and corporate team-building bookings. Youth Development and Leadership Programs The OE Young Entrepreneurs Academy had recently introduced the Youth CEO Training Course to unlock children’s potential, build confidence, and enhance public speaking skills. Calvin Khiu emphasized the importance of mastering stage presence at a young age, helping children overcome stage fear and prepare for future success in various fields. The academy had also launched the “Program 3 Cinta” initiative, offering free talks to schools, universities, and organizations in Negeri Sembilan. Focused on patriotism, family values, and self-love, the program addressed issues like familial conflicts and mental health through motivational case studies, promoting positive thinking and emotional resilience. Patriotism and Values Calvin Khiu believed in instilling patriotism from a young age, distinguishing between a government and a nation. He highlighted that poor government performance did not reflect a country’s worth. The program also emphasized self-acceptance and gratitude, encouraging individuals to adopt a healthier outlook on life despite challenges or pressures. Knowledge Sharing and Community Engagement In alignment with its mission to promote learning, the OE Academy had launched the OG Plan, an educational platform providing free content and lectures. The platform allowed students to access expert-led modules, while a paid subscription service at RM1 per day offered over 300 audiobooks, with 100 new titles added annually. Future Developments and Economic Contributions The first phase of OE Resort had been completed, with plans underway to construct a 1,000-person conference hall on the remaining land. This expansion aimed to meet growing market demand for large event spaces. During its three years of trial operations, the resort had attracted an average of 5,000 monthly visitors, significantly contributing to the local economy in Nilai and Mantin. Tourism-Education Integration Calvin Khiu envisioned OE Resort as a model for integrating tourism and education, a trend gaining traction globally. The resort’s tranquil environment was designed to enhance focus and productivity during training programs. It also served as a permanent base for OE Academy events, eliminating the need for external venue rentals. Promoting Negeri Sembilan Tourism The resort hosted the Miss Tourism International contestants, showcasing Mantin’s beauty to an international audience. This initiative elevated Negeri Sembilan’s reputation as a tourism destination, highlighting its natural and cultural charm. The resort’s strategic location near the Kajang-Seremban Highway enhanced its accessibility and appeal. A Personal Connection to Nilai Calvin Khiu expressed a personal connection to Nilai, where he had achieved his first major business success. His dedication to the community was reflected in his commitment to fostering development in the area as a way of giving back. He aimed to promote Mantin and Nilai as desirable destinations for tourism and investment. Economic and Social Impact During its trial operations, the resort had brought over 60,000 visitors annually to the area, boosting local businesses, including factories, property developments, and restaurants. Calvin Khiu believed that increased awareness of Mantin and Nilai’s proximity to the Klang Valley would further drive tourism and economic growth. A Bright Future for OE Resort The resort planned to unveil its theme song, “Accompany Me Through the World,” during the grand opening, marking another milestone in OE Resort’s journey toward becoming a key contributor to Negeri Sembilan’s tourism and educational development.

Lifestyle

Solitario Enters Malaysia with New Lab-Grown Store in Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR: Solitario, India’s premier luxury lab-grown diamond brand, has announced the grand opening of its first flagship store in Malaysia. Located within the prestigious Seibu shop-in-shop store at the TRX Exchange Mall in Kuala Lumpur, the 1000-square-foot space marks a significant milestone in the brand’s ongoing international expansion. With the global jewellery market increasingly turning towards sustainable luxury, Solitario has rapidly positioned itself as a leader in the lab-grown diamond sector. The opening of this new store in Kuala Lumpur in quick succession to the brand’s successful operations in Dubai underscore this growing demand for ethically sourced, high-quality diamond, while opening new markets for the brand in the APAC Region.  Facilitating the strategic expansion, Shreya Gems has acquired the franchise rights for Solitario Diamonds in Malaysia. The Malaysian operations will be led by industry veterans Purav Shah and Krunal Mehta, who bring a wealth of expertise in luxury retail and contemporary jewelry design. On the feat, Ricky Vasandani, CEO, Solitario, said, “We’re excited to introduce our lab-grown diamonds to Malaysia. The market here is exceptionally promising, and we anticipate a 100% increase in growth in the coming years. Our focus will remain on offering timeless designs and an unparalleled shopping experience that blends sophistication with sustainability. Our vision is to redefine luxury in the diamond industry, and Malaysia will play a key role in that journey.” As consumer preferences shift, there is growing interest in lab-grown diamonds, especially among younger, eco-conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability without sacrificing quality or design. Solitario’s new Kuala Lumpur store is set to meet the demand for elegant, ethically sourced, and innovative jewellery. Speaking about the franchise, Purav Shah, MD,  Shreya Diamonds emphasized on the role of changing consumer preferences in driving the brand’s success, “There has been a steady shift in audience preferences towards lab-grown diamonds. Consumers today are not just looking for beautiful jewellery; they want pieces that reflect their values. Capturing this, Solitario’s designs embracing global contemporary trends, combining sophistication with sustainability. As the demand for lab-grown diamonds continues to rise, this strengthens our commitment to staying at the forefront of design and luxury.” Solitario’s new Kuala Lumpur store will feature a curated collection of lab-grown diamond jewellery, from engagement rings to bespoke pieces, all crafted with the brand’s signature quality and craftsmanship. The store’s design promises an immersive, luxurious shopping experience, making every visit as special as the diamonds offered.

Lifestyle

Yung’s Bistro Opens in Taikoo Place

HONG KONG SAR: Yung’s Bistro has officially opened its second restaurant in Taikoo Place. Building on 82 years of culinary expertise from its parent company “Yung Kee Restaurant”, the brand celebrates authentic Cantonese cuisine through its philosophy of “Taste of Art, Made with Heart”. The restaurant offers traditional Cantonese dishes with contemporary flair. The new location is a significant milestone, where the brand incorporates modern design elements and sustainability concepts to create a dining space that perfectly balances traditional charm and modern sophistication. Harmonizing Nature with Urban Life The new Yung’s Bistro sits in the open space at Taikoo Piazza at Taikoo Place, Taikoo Square, Taikoo Garden and the open space at Taikoo Piazza offer more than 70,000 sq ft of green area. This redeveloped green space embraces nature-centric design, enhancing biodiversity and connecting the community with the natural environment. As a dynamic business hub, Taikoo Place skillfully blends modern urban amenities with green spaces, striking an ideal balance between work and leisure. The area features native vegetation, water features, and open spaces designed for community use and urban ecology, allowing visitors to experience Hong Kong’s bustling business world while enjoying moments of natural tranquility. Yung’s Bistro recognizes urban professionals’ desire for quality living and has created a new location that perfectly aligns with sustainability principles and Taikoo Place’s green design. This philosophy is reflected in the restaurant’s interior, where diners can enjoy gourmet, leisure, and nature at the same time. A Dialogue Between Classic and Contemporary The new location’s interior design was helmed once again by the Lim + Lu design team. The 2,500-square-foot interior space and nearly 1,000-square-foot outdoor terrace has been transformed into a serene dining sanctuary with contemporary design aesthetics. The restaurant boldly features “vermilion,” one of the twelve traditional Chinese colors, as its primary tone. This distinctive reddish-yellow hue creates a subtle earthy texture throughout the space, establishing a vintage, subtle luxury atmosphere that gleams of liveliness and joyfulness. The signature brick wall design, inspired by Yung Kee, is reimagined through contrasting tones, honoring its heritage while asserting the young brand’s unique identity. The three-dimensional handcrafted bricks create rich visual textures and depth. Upon entering, guests are greeted by two striking hand-painted murals. These works blend playful charm with traditional Chinese artistic elements. The lifelike figures are inspired by Black Maine Chinese Goose, referencing Yung Kee’s iconic goose pond and “Lanting Court” private dining room. The design incorporates elements from Wang Xizhi’s famous “Winding Stream Party,” depicting serene pavilion scenes. The charming geese appear to frolic in nature, leisurely enjoying tea from cloisonné teaware. Both murals, personally created by Lala Curio’s founder Laura Cheung Wolf, add vibrancy and whimsy to the restaurant while celebrating cultural heritage. The designers have maximized the VIP area’s limited space to cleverly create three private rooms with sage green leather panels. These rooms can be combined into one spacious dining area for events and gatherings, maintaining design cohesion while enhancing the space’s aesthetic appeal. The lounge area, situated in front of the central bar, features floor-to-ceiling windows. Here, guests can relax on comfortable sofas and armchairs and enjoying drinks while basking in natural daylight—creating an inviting dining and social atmosphere. At the bar’s far end lies an intimate and secluded photo spot. The two overlapping semi-circular booths sits in front of another lively hand-painted mural, where playful geese appear to wander through different corners of the interior. This creates a relaxed, joyful atmosphere that perfectly suits Taikoo Place’s young professional community, ideal for both quick breaks and social gatherings. Outside, guests will be whisked into Yung’s Bistro’s nearly 1,000-square-foot terrace. The spacious outdoor dining area, where pets are also welcomed is perfect for both events and after-work relaxation and embodied true work-life balance. Leading Sustainable Development in the Food & Beverage Industry Yung’s Bistro’s new Taikoo Place location demonstrates strong environmental commitment through both design and operations. The restaurant showcases its sustainability philosophy through various eco-friendly materials, including innovative seating from Kanso Design—a company recently honored with the 2024 DFA Design for Asia Awards for its outstanding design concepts. Yung’s Bistro is the first restaurant worldwide to feature Kanso Design’s latest black and white interwoven collection. These chairs, crafted by Japanese designer Sakura Adachi, combine stylish aesthetics with environmental consciousness—their fabric is woven from 100% recycled ocean plastic fibers, representing a perfect blend of fashion and sustainability. From planning to completion, the restaurant has adhered to rigorous sustainability standards, becoming the first local Chinese restaurant to receive the highest “Three Leaf” in Taikoo Place’s “Green Kitchen” programme. The restaurant also put a significant amount of resources and effort in waste reduction, plastic reduction, and carbon reduction, and is currently pursuing BEAM Plus certification. Yvonne Kam, third-generation leader of Yung Kee, explains “Opening Yung’s Bistro at Taikoo Place marks not only a significant milestone in our brand’s development, but also an advancement of our sustainable dining vision. We understand the importance of corporate social responsibility, which is why we’ve incorporated numerous eco-friendly elements into the new location’s design, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable development.” To further embrace sustainability, Yung’s Bistro has partnered with renowned local fashion designer Dorian Ho for an innovative upcycling project. Apart from designing staff uniforms, Ho has transformed unused tablecloths into stylish eco-bags to be gifted to guests for the opening. Yvonne adds “Yung Kee has always championed ‘Made in Hong Kong.’ We’re thrilled to collaborate with local talents across different sectors to contribute to Hong Kong’s sustainable development. Through Yung’s Bistro, we hope to inspire customers to explore and appreciate Cantonese cuisine in a new light, promoting authentic flavors and Hong Kong’s unique food culture.” A Culinary Symphony of Tradition and Modernity Yung’s Bistro’s Taikoo Place location offers a feast for both eyes and palate. The team extends the brand’s core philosophy through four key pillars: modern interpretations of classics, nostalgic favorites, childhood-inspired creations, and refined home-style dishes. The team meticulously selected several original and signature dishes of “Twelve Exclusive Delights” to offer in Taikoo

Lifestyle, The Executives

BiiB Fosters Team Spirit in Fitness with Innovative Challenges

In an exclusive interview with The Exchange Asia, Sheyong Tan, Co-Founder and CEO of BiiB, shared his insights into how the platform is revolutionising the fitness industry by transforming solitary activities like running into community-driven experiences. A Vision for Inclusivity and Support BiiB was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to make fitness more inclusive and socially rewarding. As a runner himself, Tan recognised that while running is often seen as a solitary pursuit focused on individual performance, there’s immense value in creating a supportive community. “Running is often a solitary pursuit where individual performance and speed are highly valued. As a runner myself, I know how impactful it is to belong to a supportive group,” Tan explains. This realisation inspired Tan and his co-founders to create a platform where people could set and achieve fitness goals together, turning wellness into a shared journey rather than a competitive race. A Collaborative Approach to Fitness At its core, BiiB is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform designed to facilitate fitness challenges that encourage collaboration rather than competition. Participants can set collective goals—whether it’s reaching a certain number of steps or covering a specified distance—and track their progress through the BiiB app. The emphasis is not on individual speed or performance; instead, it’s about achieving something as a team. “The focus isn’t on who’s the fastest—it’s about accomplishing something as a team. This group-oriented structure keeps people motivated, accountable, and engaged,” Tan explains. The Early Days The journey to developing the BiiB app began unexpectedly when Tan and his team organised a running challenge. When over 600 participants signed up, they realised they needed a way to track distances and calculate results. “We couldn’t find any existing tools that met our needs, so we decided to create the first version of the app within four months,” says Tan. The early stages weren’t without their challenges, but the overwhelming interest from participants confirmed that there was a real demand for a platform that reimagined running as a team sport. Inclusivity at the Core Inclusivity is a central value for BiiB. The platform’s focus on running and walking—activities that require little more than a pair of shoes—ensures that fitness is accessible to everyone, regardless of experience or background. Tan emphasises, “Unlike other sports that require special equipment, running and walking are accessible to nearly everyone. By keeping it simple and accessible, we encourage as many people as possible to take part and benefit from a healthier lifestyle.” Wellness and Team-Building for Businesses For businesses, BiiB offers a unique solution for promoting workplace wellness and team-building. Organisations can use the platform to organise large-scale fitness challenges that bring employees together to work towards shared health goals. Unlike traditional team-building events, BiiB’s challenges can scale to accommodate thousands of participants across various locations. “This inclusivity fosters camaraderie and teamwork, creating a culture of collaboration that extends beyond the challenge itself and into the workplace,” Tan explains. A Successful Partnership with Malaysia’s Health Ministry In August, BiiB had the opportunity to partner with Malaysia’s Health Ministry for the Langkah Sihat Putrajaya step challenge. The event, which involved public servants from 26 ministries, saw an impressive response. “Seeing people so motivated and engaged in pursuit of a shared goal was a breakthrough for us,” Tan reflects. “It highlighted BiiB’s potential to inspire mass participation and unite diverse groups, bringing an entire city together in the spirit of fitness and teamwork.” Expanding Beyond Malaysia: BiiB’s Global Vision With the increasing demand for community-driven fitness solutions, BiiB is now looking to expand beyond Malaysia. Tan notes that the platform is already receiving organic interest from companies in other countries. To support this growth, BiiB is working on addressing language barriers and time zone differences to ensure that its platform remains adaptable to the needs of users around the world. “We believe that our inclusive approach to fitness resonates with people globally, and we’re excited to take BiiB beyond Southeast Asia,” says Tan. Creating Shared Journeys to Wellness BiiB’s appeal lies in its ability to create a shared journey towards wellness. For individual users, being part of a team provides a motivational boost, while for corporations, the platform offers a practical solution for building a healthier, more connected workforce. “Employees can participate in wellness challenges that foster teamwork and friendly competition, leading to better physical health and stronger workplace bonds,” Tan concludes. This dual value—health benefits and social connections—makes BiiB a powerful tool for individuals and organisations alike, promoting well-being and togetherness in an increasingly disconnected world.

The Christmas Tree-Turned Magic Angel Interacts with the LED Castle
Lifestyle

Christmasland in New Taipei City

TAIPEI: Marking its 14th year, the 2024 Christmasland in New Taipei City makes a dazzling spectacle of magic. This year’s highlights include a radiant Christmas tree reimagined as a magical angel and a towering eight-story-high LED castle that hosts daily immersive light shows. The event spans four themed lighting zones, each with unique artistic features to captivate visitors. The City of Magic, extending over New Taipei City Plaza, 2nd East Gate Square of Banqiao Railway Station, and South Square of Banqiao Station on the Circular Line, invites visitors into a world of enchanting lights and whimsical wonders. Magical Paradise at Station Plaza is an immersive fantasy estate featuring Santa’s “Happy Train,” a dynamic mechanical installation that sparks the imagination. Magical Fairy Tale Kingdom is a magical realm made real at Fuzhong Plaza where every corner is imbued with mysterious enchantments that readily create a delightful and surprising adventure for all. At Wanping Park, Magical Cinema brings together a host of beloved international movie characters—from Transformers to Barbie—to deliver a cinematic feast for fans of all ages. Christmasland in New Taipei City isn’t just about the lights—it’s a photogenic spot packed with interactive attractions for family fun. At New Taipei City Plaza, hop on the Magic Spinning Unicorn or float with the Magic Hot-Air Balloon. Over at Banqiao Station Square, ride the radiant Lucky Ferris Wheel or journey through time on the mysterious Fantasy Train. Whether you’re snapping photos or enjoying magical moments with loved ones, Christmasland in New Taipei City promises unforgettable memories in a joyful, enchanting atmosphere. Join us and get lost in the magic!

Lifestyle

Traveloka Partners with LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS: Unlock Exclusive Deals with South Korea’s Largest Hotel Group

KUALA LUMPUR: Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform, is excited to announce its new partnership with LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS, South Korea’s largest hotel group. From October 28 to November 10, 2024, Traveloka users can enjoy up to 10% off luxurious stays at LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS properties in iconic South Korean destinations such as Seoul, Busan, and Jeju. This limited-time promotion aims to connect Southeast Asian and Australian travellers with the best of South Korean hospitality. The partnership comes at a significant moment as interest in South Korea among Southeast Asian travellers continues to soar. Traveloka’s data reveals a remarkable 154% year-on-year increase in flight searches in September 2024, underscoring South Korea’s growing appeal as a premier travel destination. This collaboration is designed to make South Korea more accessible, enabling travellers to effortlessly plan their adventures, book premium accommodations, and immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage. “Traveloka is thrilled to partner with LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS, merging Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform with one of South Korea’s most renowned hospitality brands,” said Caesar Indra, President of Traveloka. “This partnership grants our nearly 50 million users across Southeast Asia and Australia access to exceptional travel experiences in South Korea, while helping LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS enhance its visibility in these key markets.” LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS provides premium accommodations in some of South Korea’s most iconic locations. Whether exploring the bustling streets of Seoul, the tranquil landscapes of Jeju Island, or the vibrant coastal cities like Busan, LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS properties elevate the travel experience with unparalleled comfort and a deep connection to South Korea’s cultural heritage. Mr. Yang, JaeHyuk, Senior Managing Director of Marketing Strategy Division at LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS, added, “As one of Asia’s top destinations, South Korea is experiencing a remarkable increase in international tourists. Traveloka is poised to be a key partner in our distribution strategy across Indonesia and other Southeast Asian markets. This partnership and promotion will enhance LOTTE’s brand recognition among those visiting Korea, and we believe Traveloka is the perfect partner to elevate our global visibility.” Unlock Exclusive Savings! Enjoy up to 10% off unforgettable stays at LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS in South Korea with Traveloka! Unforgettable Family Fun at LOTTE Hotel World: Stay at LOTTE Hotel World Seoul, featuring exclusive family rooms designed for kids’ comfort. Guests have direct access to LOTTE World Adventure Park, ensuring fun rides and attractions for all ages. Romantic Escape at LOTTE Hotel Jeju: Couples can unwind in a serene atmosphere, enjoying breathtaking ocean views and local culinary delights, including the must-try fresh seafood on Jeju Island. Experience Coastal Elegance at L7 Haeundae: Just steps from Haeundae Beach, L7 Haeundae offers modern accommodations with stunning ocean views, perfect for exploring local seafood markets and cultural hotspots. Plan Your Trip to South Korea Now! Book tickets and tour packages to South Korea on Traveloka and take advantage of exciting promotions for LOTTE HOTELS & RESORTS. This limited-time offer is available on the Traveloka app across key markets, including Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Australia. Visit the Traveloka app today to book your dream vacation and explore the world with ease!

Lifestyle

GOELIA continues its international expansion with the opening of nine new stores during Golden Week

SINGAPORE: During China’s 2024 National Day Golden Week, celebrated fashion brand GOELIA opened nine new stores in China and overseas focusing this time on Singapore, where three flagship stores were launched consecutively at Jewel Changi Airport and Orchard Road. In contrast to the general trend of closing physical stores mainly due to the economic downturn, GOELIA, strong of its financial performance, has bucked the trend strengthening its international presence. Already, these new openings have proven a great success among the communities. Being the first Chinese fashion brand to integrate global traveling as part of its culture in designing fashion, GOELIA’s recent international strategy marks a step further in putting the brand on the global map. The brand now boasts online customers from nearly 60 countries and a fan base across 188 countries and regions. Furthermore, GOELIA has established multiple flagship stores in landmark commercial districts in Australia, Singapore, and most recently in Spain. As a global hub for international trade, Singapore features the world’s most significant transshipment port and an air transport network connecting Asia, Europe, Africa, and Oceania. It is also one of the most influential and multicultural consumer cities worldwide. GOELIA has identified Singapore as a pivotal step in its international expansion strategy. With the opening of three stores, the brand is expanding its investments in the Singapore market, strengthening its presence and laying the foundation for breaking into additional markets to solidify its presence at international level. GOELIA’s confidence in its global expansion is based on having more than 30 years of history, rigorous quality control, and an excellent pricing strategy. In addition, GOELIA has implemented research and its effective localization strategy to accommodate different languages, cultures, tastes, and preferences. By setting up operational branches in various countries, local teams work closely with the headquarter in China to ensure effective localized management. The brand tailors its product lines for each region based on market preferences and consumer profiles. Furthermore, the integration of offline flagship store services with a global free shipping strategy for orders exceeding a certain amount on the official global website provides consumers worldwide with a convenient, high-quality, and trustworthy shopping experience. GOELIA gains international favor with a sustainable fashion philosophy “Nature + Civilization = Fashion” embodies GOELIA’s fashion perspective. The brand carefully selects natural materials for its clothing, with core products featuring fabrics such as mulberry silk, triacetate, traditional Xiangyun silk, 95% white goose down, and cashmere. Accessories also emphasize natural materials, like Tahitian shell buttons and palm nut buttons, aiming to provide consumers with higher-quality products at competitive prices. GOELIA’s global stores are designed around the concept of natural ecology and wildlife conservation. In Singapore, each of the three stores presents a unique environment reflecting Goelia attention to nature and sustainability. The interiors are designed to reflect the changing seasons and Goelia’s love for country. From China to Asia, Australia, and Europe, the phrase “Keep moving forward!” is frequently shared by GOELIA’s founder. The brand’s next stop, the “Starred Store Journey,” is fashion capital Barcelona in Spain. The intention is to reach and inspire more global consumers marking the start of a new era for China’s fashion industry.

Lifestyle

Elevete Patisserie Unveils Spectacular Deepavali Dessert Collection

KUALA LUMPUR: Elevete Patisserie announces its newest dessert collection, specially baked to celebrate this year’s Deepavali. In honour of the Festival of Lights, Elevete Patisserie brings two exquisite treats designed to enhance your celebrations with flavour, style, and a touch of magic. The Elevete Patisserie Deepavali collection is available for purchase from now until November 3rd, 2024. Get ready to experience a show-stopping centrepiece like no other! Introducing the Light Diya Up Diwali Burn Away Reveal Designer Cake — a one-of-a-kind creation that combines visual artistry with delicious flavour. The base is crafted from our signature Lemon Poppy Seed Cake, vibrantly decorated to capture the essence of Deepavali’s colours and traditions. The magic truly begins when you light the cake’s diya-designed top, an interactive burn-away paper. As the paper burns away, a hidden message with “Happy Diwali” is revealed in a stunning edible image, adding a touch of wonder to your celebration. Perfect for gifting or as a jaw-dropping treat for your own festivities, this cake combines the joy of the season with a delicious twist. For those looking to share a variety of delightful flavours, Elevete Patisserie introduces the Divine Diwali Bites — a gift-wrapped treat box that brings together a medley of our beloved Mix & Match Cake Bites in a Deepavali-themed packaging. Each box features four distinct flavours, perfect for savouring with loved ones during this festive season: Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake Bites Pandan Gula Melaka Cake Bites Lemon Poppyseed Cake Bites Ultimate Chocolate Cake Bites Whether as a thoughtful gift or a shared treat for family and friends, the Divine Diwali Bites are sure to spread sweetness and joy this Deepavali.   Delivery and Pre-Order Information Place your pre-orders or orders from now until November 3, 2024, with deliveries starting on October 7, 2024. Pre-order or order by 5 PM for FREE same-day delivery* or convenient pickup options. Visit www.elevete.com.my/collections/diwali-2024 for more information. *Terms and conditions apply.

Lifestyle

H&M Opens Its First Store In Huế, Central Vietnam

HUE, VETNAM: Global fashion retailer H&M is proud to announce the opening of its first store in Huế, marking its 14th store in Vietnam. This exciting expansion into Central Vietnam highlights H&M’s commitment to bringing fashion to new regions across the country. The new store, located inside the highly anticipated AEON Mall Huế, opens its doors to the public this 11 October 2024, offering local customers access to H&M’s latest fashion collections. This milestone introduces H&M’s quality and sustainable fashion to the vibrant city of Huế and coincides after the opening of AEON Mall Huế – the city’s very first commercial centre. “We are thrilled to open our first store in Huế, a city rich in cultural heritage and youthful spirit. At H&M, we constantly challenge conventions to make fashion more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable. This store represents our commitment to bringing diverse, affordable, and innovative fashion to the people of Huế, empowering them to celebrate their individuality and express themselves with confidence.” by Frankie Shadbolt, Sales Manager for Southeast Asia. Bringing Fashion to the Cultural Heart of Vietnam As a city known for its deep historical significance and cultural heritage, Huế has long been a center of creativity and tradition. From the grandeur of its imperial past to its restored historical landmarks, the city has a unique identity that blends the old with the new. H&M is excited to complement this dynamic spirit by offering modern fashion choices that resonate with Huế’s youthful and evolving community while respecting its rich heritage. H&M Aeon Mall Huế will offer an array of styles from casual essentials to trend-driven pieces, catering to both locals and visitors who appreciate global fashion with a local offering. Sustainability and Innovation at the Core H&M Aeon Mall Huế will feature a full range of fashion collections, including women’s, men’s, and kids. As with all H&M stores, sustainability remains a core focus, with initiatives such as the garment collection program encouraging customers to bring in unwanted clothing for recycling in exchange for vouchers. “Every store is unique and designed with our customers in mind. This is not just about fashion, it’s also about community. We aim to offer more than just fashion, but also a space where people can express themselves in a world of elevated products and experiences. And we are excited to bring this to Huế.” by Frankie Shadbolt, Sales Manager for Southeast Asia Opening Day Specials H&M Aeon Mall Huế covers 854 square meters of shopping space and will host a special opening day promotion and exclusive discounts. The first 100 customers will receive a 200,000 VND gift card as part of the grand opening celebrations. Members will also receive a complimentary tote bag with every purchase. H&M Aeon Mall Huế opens from 11 October 2024, 10am – 10pm daily.

Lifestyle

Free-visa Phu Quoc Island emerges as the new global MICE tourism spotlight

PHU QUOC: In Viet Nam, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourists from travel companies account for an average of 15-20 per cent of total visitors. The number can reach up to 60 per cent at some large companies during peak months. Amid this trend, Phu Quoc has recently risen as a new MICE tourism paradise thanks to special visa policy and an increasing number of attractive experiences and high-standard infrastructure. Special visa policy Phu Quoc is currently the only destination in Viet Nam with a special visa policy. Foreigners and Vietnamese holding foreign passports who enter, exit from, and reside in Phu Quoc Island are exempt from visas with a temporary stay period of up to 30 days. This 30-day visa-free policy simplifies procedures for MICE groups, which often have large numbers of participants. Thanks to this policy, many international flights operate in Phu Quoc, with frequent services from countries, including South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Mongolia. High-end resort system Visitors to Pearl Island can enjoy a fresh, sunny atmosphere year-round while discovering the idyllic paradise of islands and beaches. Phu Quoc boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including Kem Beach and Sao Beach, with creamy white sand and crystal-clear waters. It also has smaller islands, including Hon Thom and Hon May Rut, offering pristine beauty and a rich diversity of marine and forest ecosystems. With this natural advantage, resorts along wide sandy shores are key attractions for many MICE groups seeking luxury relaxation. These spaces also serve as ideal settings for team activities and memorable outdoor parties. A prime example is JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, known for successfully hosting MICE groups, including lavish Indian weddings, such as the globally renowned wedding of Rushang Shah and Kaabia Grewal. New World Phu Quoc stands out with its villa-style accommodations, all featuring private pools, while Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay offers 752 rooms at reasonable prices with five-star quality. Notably, Phu Quoc’s luxurious restaurants and highly skilled chefs offer global cuisine, including vegetarian and Halal options. Spacious conference facilities Resorts in Phu Quoc are equipped with large conference rooms and halls, catering to a wide range of events. In the heart of Sunset Town, opposite La Festa Phu Quoc – Curio Collection by Hilton, stands the Sun Signature Gallery convention centre, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley. Its highlight is the grand ballroom, which can accommodate up to 1,000 guests, featuring advanced technology and aesthetic appeal. The ballroom can host events in various formats, including classroom-style or workshops for up to 1,000 people, cocktail receptions for about 800 people, or seated dinners for 550-600 guests. Additionally, the Sun Signature Gallery ballroom has cutting-edge lighting systems that allow 360-degree flexibility for dynamic lighting adjustments. In late October, the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc will unveil the Sun Convention Centre that managed by New World, a new conference venue with a capacity of up to 1,000 guests. Offering diverse experiences MICE groups choose Phu Quoc for the reason of the wide range of top-tier entertainment and recreational activities. For premium groups, Phu Quoc is a golfer’s paradise, with picturesque courses that attract enthusiasts. Notably, Eschuri Vung Bau offers a unique theme, taking players on a ‘forest to sea’ journey across 18 challenging holes. Kem Beach Driving Range is a perfect choice for beginners. The range features 18 lanes stretching 300 yards, equipped with an Auto Tee system, providing a comfortable and complete training experience. Sun Paradise Land complex in southern Phu Quoc also offers an unparalleled entertainment experience. Visitors can explore the Kiss Bridge, watch the Kiss of the Sea multimedia show, enjoy nightly fireworks displays, explore Vietnamese culture with the folk show at A Oi Theater and stroll through the seaside VUI-Fest bazaar. At the end of the year, Sun Paradise Land will launch Symphony of the Sea show, which will feature a dynamic mix of Jetski and Flyboard performances, fireworks and Vietnamese cultural elements such as lion dance, festival drums… These outdoor shows, held in spacious venues, are perfectly suited for serving MICE groups. Another must-do experience for any visitor to Phu Quoc is the journey on the world’s longest non-stop three-cable car to Hon Thom Island. This experience has been hailed as one of the most worthwhile in Phu Quoc by Lonely Planet, the world-renowned travel guide.

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