Innholdsfortegnelse for July 2024 i Tatler Malaysia

TATLER HONG KONG Tatler secured a rare interview with Gerald Li, the co-founder of Leading Nation, which runs award-winning establishments such as The Diplomat and Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic. TATLER MALAYSIA Tatler met Matthew Tang, the 18-year-old who’s secured places to study chemistry at four Ivy League universities. He shared some of the important lessons he learnt during the process. TATLER PHILIPPINES Gina Consing McAdam and Siobhán Doran, the authors of Houses That Sugar Built, an Intimate Portrait of Philippines Homes, revealed what sparked the idea for their compendium of stunning Philippines architecture. TATLER TAIWAN Abner Chao, a Gen.T honouree, co-founded the AmazingTalker online platform with the goal of making online English learning more accessible. He explained how he transitioned from a career in boxing and how he’s facing…

From being branded too “outspoken”, “liberal” and “weird” to getting flack for having opinions that go against the grain, supermodel and actress Alicia Amin has fielded more criticism and pushback in her 14-year career than most people her age would endure in their lifetime. But she’s an incredibly gifted actress who has put in the hard work to be where she is today. She’s also a cat- and dog-lover with multiple pets under her roof. She’s an accomplished equestrian. She’s fiercely protective of her siblings. The point is, no one is one-dimensional, and she certainly is not. Whatever labels she’s been slapped with, Alicia’s whole career, if anything, is a daring confrontation of conventional wisdom that says you have to think, feel or live only a certain way to earn…

Winifred Duraisingam’s students at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Lembah Keramat, Selangor, were told one day that their P.E and geography teacher wasn’t at school because she was out participating in a cricket tournament. Curious, some students went back home and Googled their teacher for the first time, thrilled to discover that she is an internationally renowned cricket player and the young captain of the national women’s cricket team. “They’d come up to me and say, ‘I saw you on Google and on TV!’” says Winifred with a grin. “I’d play around with them and say, ‘Are you sure? I didn’t see anything about myself online!’” Imagine the effect it would have had on the young, aspiring athletes in Winifred’s class—boys and girls who found themselves up-close with one of Malaysia’s rising…

When it comes to sports, there are stories that resonate far beyond the roar of the crowd or the glitter of medals. These are tales of perseverance, resilience, and unyielding spirit. With the 2024 Paralympic Games on the horizon, Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) president Datuk Seri Megat D Shahriman Zaharudin’s commitment to the nation’s Paralympians offers a compelling glimpse into the heart and soul of Malaysia’s adaptive sports community. As we sit in the Tatler studio for an interview, Megat’s passion is palpable. “It’s not just about the medals,” he says, his eyes gleaming with determination. “It’s about fairness, inclusivity, and breaking down barriers.” He further reitirates, “Fairness in terms of merits. No discrimination in sports.” This declaration from Megat encapsulates his vision for Malaysian sports. “In order for…

In honour of Mother’s Day, an intimate group of 30 ladies gathered at the stylish Longines boutique at The Exchange TRX for an exclusive evening preview showcasing Longines’ Mini Dolcevita 2024 novelties. A celebration of exquisite craftsmanship and refined sophistication, the invite-only event hosted by Tatler and Longines was specially curated to pamper a select group of stylish mothers through various in-store activities, including live sketching, a hand pampering session, and bespoke floral bouquet arrangements. The event kicked off with light refreshments as familiar faces like Mereen Teo and Norashidah Wahab were invited to try on the latest watches from the stylish Mini Dolcevita collection, exuding confidence, contemporary elegance and quiet luxury. Upon receiving welcome drinks and canapés, each guest was treated to personalised attention from the Longines team, who…

“Once you understand how the game is played, the hang of it, and figure out the scoring, you’re in for a really good time”— CHRISTIAN LEE It’s early Wednesday morning. The atmosphere is charged with the rhythmic exchange of volleys and the precise beat of paddles striking neon-yellow plastic balls. Two players, dressed in a combination of traditional tennis attire and casual athletic wear, stand either side of a net wielding solid rackets made from composite or wood materials designed for both power and control. Distinctive “pop” and “pock” sounds are followed by the higher-pitched “clink” of the ball hitting the court surface, resonating as players exhibit impressive agility and precision. Their swift movements involve shuffling sideways, lunging forward and executing sharp pivots. This is the scene that unfolds as…

LONGING FOR SUMMER There’s a maxi dress for every taste, whether you opt for flowing bohemian designs or sleek modern cuts. The options this season are endless, from Johanna Ortiz’s vibrant and colourful prints that pair perfectly with chic sandals to Lanvin’s sophisticated silhouettes that exude timeless elegance. GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT Dressing up for a night out with the girls is even more fun during the summer—when you love your outfit, you feel good and a fun time is almost guaranteed. Make sure your gang makes a statement—we’ll be ensuring all eyes are on us in this summery yellow Rodarte number and painting the town red in a bold creation by Jean Paul Gaultier. IN THE BAG Nothing says “summertime” like swapping your Birkin or Neverfull for a beach-ready tote.…

GEAR UP Encased in sleek, white Quartz TPT—a proprietary composite material—the RM 17-02 Tourbillon stands out for both its robustness and the elegance of its design. Known for its resistance to wear, the Quartz TPT beautifully frames the complex, skeletonised movement inside, where blue, gold and black PVD finishes play across the surface. But this movement isn’t just about aesthetic appeal: it’s built with a grade 5 titanium baseplate, ensuring both durability and precision. The inclusion of a tourbillon regulator and a unique mechanism to prevent overwinding makes this piece one to bookmark. HOUSING TIME Omega, the official timekeeper of the Olympic Games, will open Omega House Paris for the 2024 Games. Located centrally, it will be a haven for select members, guests, VIPs, and athletes. The venue will showcase…

Cartier’s Grain de Café collection exudes the glamour and radiant elegance reminiscent of Grace Kelly on the French Riviera in the 1950s. The yellow gold rings, pendants, earrings, and brooches play with light, volume, and delicate finishes to create lively yet versatile combinations. Arranged in clustered, floral-like forms, the coffee bean shapes studded with diamonds move fluidly, creating a subtle rustling with the slightest motion. This year, Cartier also reinterprets a 1955 necklace design, paying homage to the creative heritage of the Grain de Café line and the legacy of its original designer, Jeanne Toussaint. Handpicked for those who have a hunger for style…

ART What do the Romanovs, Gladys Deacon the Duchess of Marlborough and Imelda Marcos have in common? The Kokoshnik pearl diadem, a crown encrusted with 144 diamonds and 25 large pear-shaped pearls. First owned by Empress Maria Federovna, the mother of Tsar Nicholas II, the last tsar of imperial Russia, the piece was auctioned by Christies in 1927 after the fall of the Russian aristocracy to Lenin’s communist regime and bought by American heiress Gladys Deacon, the wife of the ninth Duke of Marlborough. Shortly after Deacon’s death in 1978, Imelda Marcos, the wife of former Philippines president Ferdinand Marcos, is said to have purchased the piece. Few academics, let alone artists, would think to link these seemingly disparate historical figures and events, but British Filipino artist Pio Abad has…

When choosing an airline to fly with, one of the biggest decision-makers is comfort. In-flight dining, in particular, can make or break an airborne journey experience. Meals must be hearty, wholesome, and taste good. Singapore Airlines’ revamped Premium Economy Class offerings deliver just this, setting the standard for in-flight meals. Living up to its recently crowned title of World’s Best Airline at the 2023 World Airline Awards, Singapore Airlines has introduced 200 new meals, including elevations of signature dishes. Passengers will be greeted with a glass of Charles de Cazanove Brut Tradition NV—an addition to its wine list comprising bottles sourced from Australia and New Zealand. When in Rome, do as the Romans do but when in Singapore, order a Singapore Sling. The nation’s signature gin-based cocktail will be served on…

“Please don’t be offended...I’m not looking into your eyes directly but actually concentrating on your eyebrows as we’re talking,” Mint Lim says candidly, adding that she has dyslexia and that people with learning differences often have unique challenges to overcome when it comes to learning and interacting. “It’s sometimes hard for me to handle that emotional presence, because in my mind, I’m going part by part on this formula in my head while speaking, otherwise I might sound incoherent,” she says with a winsome grin. Lim is the founder of the School of Concepts, an educational institution in Singapore that teaches English and Chinese literacy as well as STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) proficiency through an innovative visual/auditory/kinesthetic learning methodology. By rethinking how different children learn and encouraging…

For Dang Tai Luk, the visionary man behind retail chain MyNews, his journey to entrepreneurial success is one defined by grit and perseverance—qualities he learned and inherited from his parents. Growing up with eight other siblings in Air Tawar, Perak, Dang shares the catalyst that changed their humble circumstances: “I once overheard my father say to my mother, ‘Let’s not breed another generation of rubber tappers; let’s work hard to educate our children.’” Witnessing his father supplement their income with a small welding business to support the family and send most of his siblings to further their studies abroad sparked an entrepreneurial spirit in Dang at a young age. After completing his degree and master’s in computer science at the University of Manitoba, Canada, he returned home and soon ventured…

INVITATION TO ESCAPE The Chanel Coco Beach 2024 collection channels the spirit of vacationing and Gabrielle Chanel’s fondness of the seaside. In a campaign featuring model Olivia Vinten, photographer Cass Bird captures the vibrant joy of a golden summer. Expect to encounter a range of playful swimsuit options, including a glamorous asymmetrical creation with a jewel fastening on the back and pastel strapless swimsuits worn under matching denim shorts. The collection also features a peach and coral bikini, a jumpsuit with vertical stripes, a coated canvas parka, and other seasonal must-haves. HIGH SUMMER Step into Thom Browne’s High Summer collection and embrace the season with impeccable style. This collection highlights the essence of summer sophistication with its crisp white shirts, masterfully tailored jackets, and versatile cotton canvas trousers. Each piece…

An enduring mainstay in the Richard Mille sports collection, the timepieces of the Rafael Nadal collection reflect the unwavering pursuit of excellence of the 22-time Grand Slam champion. With a keen focus on combining high-precision timekeeping with weightless wear, the all-new RM 27-05 Flying Tourbillon Rafael Nadal marks the climactic pinnacle of Richard Mille’s quest to develop the ultimate sporting watch. Boasting an impressive technical data sheet, the RM 27-05 Flying Tourbillon Rafael Nadal sets the record with its lightweight construction of 11.5 grams, excluding the strap. A reassuring weight on the wrist of the 14-time French Open champion, the featherlight watch can withstand rigorous rallies and powerful volleys with a remarkable shock resistance of up to 14,000 g-force—a velocity no ordinary person is likely to encounter. A genuine feat…

BROOCH THE SUBJECT A white diamond brooch never goes out of style. Director and Cannes Film Festival jury member Hirokazu Kore-eda provided clear proof of this, sporting the Chaumet Oeillet brooch from the Jardins collection at the 77th edition of the festival in May. Crafted from 18-karat white gold and adorned with 224 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 3.34 carats, the piece gleamed as Hirokazu ascended the venue’s famed steps. HONEY, I’M GOLD Perlée, a signature motif that dates back to the 1920s, has long been celebrated for its delicate golden beads, and has adorned some of the most iconic pieces in the history of Van Cleef & Arpels. This motif is reimagined in the latest collection, where the beads are not just decorative elements but integral to the structural beauty and…

ONE LAST LOOK Nicholas Chuan, a professional illustrator, designer, and art director from Penang, has created vibrant artworks for international sports brands such as UEFA, FIFA, Manchester United, Liverpool FC, F1’s Red Bull Racing, FC Bayern, the Kansas City Chiefs and more. In 2022, at just 19 years old, Chuan designed the Sepuluh NFT (non-fungible token) collection for legendary Malaysian footballer Safee Sali, donning his iconic number 10 jersey, associated with football heroes. This project marked a significant milestone for Chuan in the local sports and art scenes. Chuan regards Safee as a role model who has made significant contributions to the local sports industry. The Sepuluh collection captures highlights from Safee’s career, notably his role in leading Harimau Malaya to victory in the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup, where he…

CHUAN LOOI Chuan Looi is a sought-after photographer whose work has been featured in top fashion magazines in Malaysia and Hong Kong. He’s also an award-winning music video director and had published a coffee table book, which was a collaboration with actress Lee Sinje based on their month-long trip to India. For Tatler, he photographed our July cover shoot featuring Mark Choo, Christian Lee, Datin Wira Sabrena Dani and Kim Raymond. CHERRY MUI Cherry Mui is the fashion director at Tatler Hong Kong. Growing up between Chengdu and Hong Kong, she is influenced by the aesthetics of the east and west, classic and digital, and nostalgic and futuristic. Her work has been featured in Vogue and Ming’s, among others. She styled the Parisset fashion shoot this month. SOPHIE GREEN Documentary…

In 2019, Puteri Munajjah Az-Zahraa Azhar etched her name in Malaysian chess history, becoming the third Malaysian to earn the International Chess Federation (FIDE) title of Woman International Master (WIM). It is the second highest title, after Woman Grandmaster (WGM), which Malaysians have yet to claim. The 23-year-old prodigy joins the elite ranks of Audrey Wong Su Yi, who first claimed the title for the nation in 1985, and Dr Siti Zulaikha Foudzi, an eight-time record holder, whose last win came in 2006. With her predecessors now retired, Puteri is the highest-ranked among the nation’s women chess players. “I believe it takes a competitive mindset to be a woman international master. It begins with setting goals and working towards achieving them,” Puteri says, reflecting on her journey. “I used to…

GAVIN GREEN Asia’s Most Influential 2021 Pro-golfer Gavin Green was introduced to golf at age seven when his father took him to a driving range. At 13, he made his debut in the amateur circuit, playing in the 2007 Johor Open on the Asian Tour. He won the Asian Development Tour as an amateur in 2014 before winning twice as a pro in 2016 to earn his card to the Asian Tour. After turning professional in 2015, he became the first Malaysian to win the Asian Tour Order of Merit in 2017, which earned him a European Tour card. Green also finished 47th and 57th, respectively, at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. On top of being the only Malaysian in the prestigious European Tour, Green also…

Already in its third year, the Tatler Malaysia Sustainability Weekend 2024 has gotten bigger and better. Held in partnership with The Exchange TRX and Enrich by Malaysia Airlines, the two-day affair brought together key players from the realms of fashion, beauty, food and lifestyle, along with sustainability thought leaders, to a single venue. They presented innovative and eco-friendly products and solutions, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship. Hosted at The Exchange TRX, the event was a hub of activity with over 30 diverse brands, all united under the theme “Sustainable Future: A Journey Towards Greener Living.” The event was open to all, offering attendees a chance to immerse themselves in a variety of interactive workshops, enlightening talks, and engaging activities. The aim was to educate and inspire positive environmental action,…

GEN.T Single mothers often have to manage household duties, childcare and earning an income. The weight of these responsibilities may cause elevated stress levels and fatigue, affecting their personal well-being and their capacity to take on other roles or pursue passions. With these challenges in mind, Aida Zunaidi and Wong Wei Qi were inspired to start their social enterprise Ibupreneur in 2019 while still in university. They were both participating in the Youth Leadership Academy programme by McKinsey and Company, which focuses on equipping young Malaysians with skills to be entrepreneurs. “We were given the topic of women’s economic empowerment, which I [could resonate with] because I grew up with a mother who had to hold our family together and was the sole breadwinner,” says Aida. “Having witnessed the drive…

At Hublot, orange is the new black—and when the king of coloured ceramics introduces a fun new hue, we sit up and take note. The watch features a polished ceramic 42mm case, available in this vivid orange as well as a subtle dark green, complemented by a micro-blasted black ceramic caseback and a skeleton dial that boldly exposes the inner workings. Equipped with the advanced MHUB1280 Unico 2 Manufacture self-winding chronograph flyback movement, the orange beauty boasts a robust 72-hour power reserve. Limited to 250 pieces. These tourbillons are crafted to make your head spin with excitement…

FEATURE Louis Cartier produced the maison’s first wristwatch in 1904, for Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont; today, nearly 120 years later, the maison continues to innovate with every collection it unveils. Its latest offerings at this year’s Watches and Wonders are a clear reflection of this enduring legacy of combining reinvention and tradition. Tatler sits down with Pierre Rainero, Cartier’s image, style, and heritage director, to dig into how the iconic designs of the early 20th century still pulse at the heart of the maison’s modern creations, proving that true style never ages, it only evolves. How are Cartier’s 20th-century designs reflected in this year’s novelties at Watches and Wonders? The choices that were made in terms of type of shapes [in the early 20th century] were linked to what Cartier…

Longevity has come into sharp focus in recent years. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global population of over-65s is projected to double from 750 million in 2019 to 1.5 billion in 2050. That’s one sixth of humanity. The current generation simply refuses to age as their predecessors did, as they yearn for innovative approaches to longevity and healthspan—that is, the length of time that a person is healthy, not just alive. As Dan Buettner, author and host of the 2023 Netflix documentary Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones, says, “Most of us are leaving good years on the table. [Globally, about two-thirds of people] will die prematurely from an avoidable disease. How do we fix this? It’s not by trying to prevent death; it’s by…