Innholdsfortegnelse for November 2024 i Tatler Malaysia

TATLER HONG KONG Tarmo Peltokoski, the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra’s music director designate, chatted about filling auditoriums and his obsession with Wagner. TATLER MALAYSIA Internet sensation Uncle Roger, aka Nigel Ng, discussed how he is using comedy to bring Asian food to the world stage, and his new restaurant Fuiyoh! It’s Uncle Roger. TATLER PHILIPPINES Tatler spoke to first-time (and double) Olympic gold medallist Carlos Yulo in his first magazine interview post-Paris about his experiences at the 2024 Games and his plans for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. SHANGLIU TATLER Taiwan-born superstar Brigitte Lin has been honoured with the Chaplin Award in Asia in recognition of her contributions to cinema. The Tatler cover star took us on a journey down memory lane. TATLER SINGAPORE We talked to former banker Jocelyn…

Your best kept secret for the upcoming party season: gem-set and go…

Asymmetric cuts and shapes: for those who think out of the box…

Diabetes is projected to afflict 7 million Malaysian adults aged 18 and older by 2025, according to a recent study on the prevalence of type-2 diabetes and prediabetes in Malaysia. The increasing trend comes from a range of causes, including rising rates of obesity, physical inactivity and an ageing population. A World Obesity Federation report predicts 41 per cent of the nation’s adults will be obese by 2035. In 2023, the Malaysian Ministry of Health launched a Sugar Advocacy Plan to combat excessive sugar consumption and reduce the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes. Earlier this year, the ministry launched the “Kurang Manis” campaign in Putrajaya to promote healthier drinking habits. Reception was tepid, reflecting a broader cultural resistance to change. In 2025, Malaysia will raise duties on sugar-sweetened…

From dramatic haircuts to retail therapy, remedies for a broken heart are as varied as they come, but perhaps none are as timeless or comforting as food. The idea of a meal as a source of sustenance and healing is a universal one, central to multiple traditions. Of the many myths and legends surrounding the origin of Uzbekistan’s national dish, plov—a hearty rice dish with vegetables, meat and spices simmered in a broth—one is based on the premise that the dish is a cure for heartbreak. A prince fell in love with the daughter of a craftsman but was unable to marry her due to their differences in social status; to cheer him up, he was fed plov, the sustaining, comforting qualities of which eased his misery. It is this…

For the complete list, scan the QR code. SERINA HIJJAS ARCHITECT AND DIRECTOR, HIJJAS ARCHITECTS & PLANNERS Serina Hijjas is a prominent Malaysian architect and a leader in sustainable architecture. As the principal of Hijjas Architects and Planners, she upholds the legacy of her father, Hijjas Kasturi, a key figure in modern Malaysian architecture. Since taking over in 2011, she has brought a blend of tradition and innovation to the firm. With over 30 years of experience, Serina began her career at Foster Associates in London before joining her father’s firm in 1991. Her work in London, focusing on energy efficiency and environmental design, sparked her enduring passion for sustainability. Serina’s role with the Malaysia Green Building Council and the Green Building Index has positioned her as a champion of…

When thinking of improving one’s skin, the mind automatically drifts to skincare in the form of beauty products. However, diet plays a significant role, with certain foods providing powerful benefits, from nourishing the skin to supporting collagen production. Here are six foods that boost complexion. AVOCADO Rich in healthy fats, avocados moisturise the skin and protect it from oxidative and sun damage, reducing wrinkles and fine lines. The high vitamin C and E content also improves hydration and reduces inflammation, making the skin soft and smooth. CAVIAR Not just a gourmet delicacy, caviar is a beauty powerhouse with nutrients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins A and D, and antioxidants. This makes the ingredient an important one for maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier, boosting collagen production and deep hydration.…

There is no shame in having undereye bags, jowls, and crow’s feet, but if you prefer a youthful appearance, there are products that can instantly transform and rejuvenate your face. Among the most sought-after formulas are bakuchiol and retinol, which experts trust when it comes to fighting and decreasing the signs of ageing. While both promise instant lift and protection against harmful free radicals, each has a different mode of action and set of benefits. Bakuchiol, for instance, is a gentler alternative to retinol. On the other hand, retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A that aids in collagen production and skin renewal. In this article, Tatler delves deeper into the use of both substances and their similarities and differences. RETINOIDS EXPLAINED Simply put, retinoids are a class of chemical…

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR As a Malaysian, you already know the story of Datuk Nicol David. Her status as the Greatest Of All Time in squash is well-documented—eight World Championship titles, a record-breaking 108 consecutive months as the World No. 1, and countless profiles have been written on her (many from Tatler)—all are readily available with a quick search online. Her early days in Penang, the sacrifices made, her rise through junior squash, the countless matches won, her exceptional grace both on and off the court, and more recently this year, her exemplary role as Malaysia’s Olympic deputy chef de mission at The Games, what remains left to be acknowledged about her? Our cover story is about how a legend like David transcends mere statistics and accomplishments (p.54). She reminds…

At first glance, one would not recognise the menu at Backdoor Bodega for what it is. Slotted into a shelf, the red hard-cover printed book looks like a tourist guide in the travel section of a bookshop, filled with stories from a dive into Penang-grown nutmeg and a map of the island’s different hiking trails to detailing iconic eateries from Nyonya and char kuey teow to rojak spots. “It actually doubles up as our menu as well, which has always been rooted in local ingredients,” enthuses Koh Yung Shen, Backdoor Bodega’s founder, who notices my enthusiasm. It is only then that I realise each story, penned by the humble bartender himself, corresponds to a respective drink. The current menu is inspired by different parts of Penang’s culture—for instance, the guide…

Qarbotech is a Malaysian-based agritech startup on a mission to revolutionise agriculture through innovative nanotechnology, promote sustainable farming practices, combat climate change and work towards eliminating world hunger. The company was co-founded in 2018 by Chor Chee Hoe, Prof Suraya Abdul Rashid and Amirul Merican, who are fully committed to their cause. The company’s flagship product, QarboGrow, is the world’s first patented photosynthesis enhancement technology. With its capacity to increase crop yields by up to 20 per cent, the biocompatible product increases farming efficiency with quicker turnaround times and improved produce quality. Depending on the crops and other factors, QarboGrow can also increase yields by up to 60 per cent, bringing society closer to food security. Chor, who is the CEO of Qarbotech, admits his path into the agritech industry…

Tatler Best is Asia’s definitive guide to the top 100 hotels, top 100 restaurants and top 100 bars in the region, celebrating excellence in hospitality and dining. With its 27 Best in Class awards—11 for hotels, nine for restaurants and seven for bars—Tatler Best stands apart from similar honours. Nominees were selected based on expert insights, with input from Asia’s most discerning globetrotters, culinary connoisseurs and drinks specialists, reflecting the evolving tastes of the region’s most savvy travellers. Tatler Best jury co-chairs handpicked a jury of more than 400 individuals, including Tatler editors, established food writers, travel journalists, influencers and, importantly, members of Tatler’s community across Asia, who are known for their sophisticated takes on where to stay, eat and drink. The process to identify the Tatler Best 100 in…

BIRD WATCHING Of course, a Tiffany blue watch face will always be in style, but in this piece, the famous shade is represented through a natural turquoise gemstone. The high jewellery piece displays hours and minutes on a diamond-paved sub-dial, while Jean Schlumberger’s favourite diamond-encrusted, 18-karat white gold birds sit atop the signature shade. A flying tourbillon complication is also seen under a diamond-like faceted sapphire crystal dome. SUPER CARBON This year, we have seen Audemars Piguet dabble with a lot of interesting materials; in the case of the Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date model, that’s Chroma Forged Technology (CFT) Carbon. The maison last used forged carbon eight years ago; this new version can be coloured and is free of porosity, a development that took the in-house…

THE WINNING ENSEMBLE Elizabeth Debicki radiated a subtle royal charm at the Emmys this year, where she won the award for best supporting actress in a drama series for her role as Princess Diana in The Crown. She paired her long black velvet Dior dress with De Beers Arpeggia one-line diamond earrings and a matching bracelet. Her earrings, a strand of shoulder-grazing diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, totalling 4.71 carats, were the highlight of her look. LEAF IT We love classic wedding jewellery that can also be worn with everyday ensembles. That’s why the CTF Bond Collection by Chow Tai Fook is one to bookmark. Some of the designs in the collection are inspired by olive leaves, which feature in necklaces, bangles, bracelets, earrings and rings. The collection is…

Few spaces at home are as personal and essential as the bathroom, comparable to those of the bedroom. This is even more so lately, as modern bathrooms have evolved into a sanctuary of relaxation and self-care. Once a purely utilitarian area for the rudimentary washing-up, it’s now a place where one spends copious amounts of time. “Aesthetically, we’re seeing a shift toward injecting more character and personality into bathrooms,” chips in David Gituen Marcus, head of interior design of Linear Vista. “We’re moving away from the conventional bathrooms that are cold, sterile environments; they’re no longer viewed as purely functional, but as destinations within the home, feeling as comfortable and stylish as any other room in the home.” Furthermore, layering atop curated elements that instil bathrooms with their own distinct…

The first products that I pack in my travel beauty kit before any trip are… Basic skincare products: toner, serum, cream, lip balm and cotton pads. These are considered just one skincare set for me. I pack these items first because skincare is the most essential step. The products I pack are Kids Soft Cleansing Tissue and Essential Mool Deep Cleansing Oil from my brand Jungsaemmool, and scalp treatment ampoule by Ell-Cranell. What are your must-have skincare products? On top of the essential skin set, I pack cleansing products. Cleansing using proper products according to your skin conditions is very important. While travelling, my skincare routines are very important. When I’m on the plane, I always keep three sticks in my bag: Essential Mool Stick, Essential Mool Stick Glow and…

If the pieces of clothing you choose to dress yourself in serve as a visual dialogue of who you are, it’s the colours they’re adorned in that truly complete your narrative with emotion and depth, painting a vivid portrait of your inner world and unique identity. But colour is far more than just a medium for self-expression, but also “the most visible form of armour,” as Chanel brilliantly encapsulates. In the realm of beauty, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel deemed lipsticks as a subtle yet powerful tool of empowerment, famously declaring, “If you are sad, put on some lipstick and attack.” Chanel’s 31 Le Rouge embodies this liberating spirit, which now sees twelve new bold shades with a velvety, matte finish. Drawing inspiration from various aspects of Chanel’s storied heritage, this new…

DAMIEN FRY Los Angeles-based photographer Damien Fry specialises in brand look books, portraits, fashion shoots and landscape photography. He has worked with stars including Miley Cyrus, Charlie Heaton and Carly Rae Jepsen and his work has been published by Marie Claire, GQ and Wonderland. He shot this month’s fashion shoot for Tatler. (p.92) WEECHEE The celebrity fashion director’s aesthetics are uniquely cinematic, inspired by the film and art world. Having lived and worked in KL, New York and Beijing, Weechee counts Ling Tan, Gong Li, Li Bing Bing, Simon Yam and Godfrey Gao among his celebrity clients. His work has been featured in Elle China, Vogue Thailand, Harper’s Bazaar and Esquire. For Tatler this month, he styles our cover star Datuk Nicol David. (p.54) TAWFICK ESPRIELLA Colombian photographer and filmmaker…

“Light is just a medium that I fell in love with. It’s one of those elements that can pair with anything, from sound to movement or material structures,” says Jun Ong, light artist and co-founder of KL-based spatial design studio, POW Ideas. Over the last decade, Ong has made a name for himself in the world of installation art, drawing from his architectural background and fascination for light and space. “When I first started creating light installations, it was a lonely experience because there was no one to look up to. I took a leap of faith, and today, I’m happy that I did.” Ong has shown at major art festivals, including the Taiwan Lantern Festival (2023), Art SG (2023), Art Central Hong Kong (2018) and iLight Marina Bay Singapore…

Nga Kor Ming is often known for his dedication to public service, his role as Malaysia’s Minister of Housing and Local Government, and his impassioned speeches. But beyond the political arena, Nga is a man deeply shaped by his upbringing, values, and belief in social justice. We speak to him as he opens up about the experiences that moulded him, the passions that drive him, and the simple pleasures that define his life away from the public eye. Nga’s story begins in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, where he was born into a multicultural environment that has had a lasting impact on him. He emphasises the importance of Malaysia’s diversity as a cornerstone of his personal beliefs. “The greatest asset of our country is the racial harmony and unity among the multiracial…

The World Economic Forum estimates that addressing the gaps in women’s health can potentially boost the global economy by at least US$ 1 trillion by 2040. The message is clear: give a woman access to well-rounded healthcare that takes her and her family’s needs into consideration, and her participation in the economy adds growth and prosperity to the entire world. Helping just one woman creates a ripple effect that includes a better life for her parents, her children, her community and ultimately, all of society. This is a need that former squash World No 1 champion Datuk Nicol Ann David quickly recognised while working on training future squash athletes through the Little Legends programme in her non-profit organisation, the Nicol David Organisation (NDO). Founded together with Columbian squash champ Mariana…

HOTELS 1. Exceptional Service: The best hotels provide intuitive, personalised service at every level of the guest experience, anticipating visitors’ needs without being intrusive. 2. Outstanding Design: Striking architecture and interior design leave a lasting impression. From the moment you enter, you can tell these hotels are not your run-of-the-mill luxury properties; there’s a distinctive charm and individuality that sets them apart. Lighting and landscaping are also considered. 3. Sense of Place: Great hotels go beyond aesthetics to create meaningful connections between guests and the local culture and community. This is often achieved through thoughtful design elements and exclusive, authentic experiences. 4. Sustainability: HNW travellers are increasingly conscious of their environmental and social impact, choosing hotels that embrace sustainability practices—such as waste reduction, energy-efficient systems and sustainable sourcing—and integrate these…

JACK(ET) OF ALL TRADES As the temperatures in parts of our region begin to dip, even if only marginally, it’s finally cool enough to add a layer to your outfit with the perfect jacket. A casual denim number or a sequin-studded statement piece ups the ante for a Saturday night out, while a slim-fit blazer, as seen at Balmain and Gucci, finishes off a more formal look. GREEN LIGHT There’s a new shade in town, and it’s not messing around: olive green is stepping out of the shadows and into the spotlight this season. From Fendi’s catwalk, where over-the-knee boots in this earthy hue stole the show, to Burberry’s all-green ensembles, the colour is making its way from Mediterranean groves to metropolitan life. MINI MANIA Long live the minibag! These…

Let’s start with the impact of the First World War on the designs of timepieces at Vacheron Constantin. Wristwatches arrived in the second half of the 19th century, and they were 100 per cent dedicated to women. I remember reading an article in a Swiss watchmaking journal which said their accuracy is questionable, but they are good enough for ladies; and that no serious gentleman would ever [wear one]. The journalist was wrong. Wristwatches started to be adopted by men [who were mostly] aristocrats. Their popularity grew [around] the First World War because soldiers started to wear timepieces on their wrists for convenience. What models from that era stand out? The American 1921 comes to mind. This timepiece was created in the Roaring Twenties, right after the First World War.…

Many people would be unlikely to take up the chance to drink water that’s billions of years old water out of an ancient geode lined with amethysts—but then, performance artist Marina Abramović isn’t most people. In her own words, she “is all about the experience”. The compulsion came about from an insatiable curiosity, a love of crystals and an innate desire to test the limits of the human body and experience transformation. “I drank it thinking it was the most primordial water on the planet. I mean, can you imagine having something in your body that old?” she says, describing the water as a kind of elixir. “I wouldn’t recommend it, though, because I got really sick,” she admits. “But I drank it anyway because I was so excited to…

The allure of Chanel transcends mere luxury, embodying the crème de la crème of indulgence and artistry in all the finest forms. In the realm of beauty, the maison’s Sublimage collection transforms skincare from a mundane routine into a sumptuous ritual of rejuvenation and wellness. Infused with the rich regenerating properties of polyfractioned Vanilla Planifolia, each product is meticulously crafted to envelop the senses, offering a decadent interlude of self-care that nourishes both the skin and spirit. Within the Sublimage range lies the Les Extraits line, enriched with the potent reparative benefits of Swertia extracts to revitalise the skin with new life. This year, Chanel has expanded its Les Extraits offerings with two new additions, the Sublimage L’Extrait de Lotion and Sublimage L’Extrait Pommade Or, elevating this restorative ritual to…

Stigmas have been lifted and views have shifted in the world of cosmetic procedures. As a result, more people are turning towards non- or minimally-invasive treatments to enhance natural features, rather than dramatically changing the way they look. Here, we document a variety of treatments available today, as well as trends that are rising in this space—from facials, like one inspired by the coveted Korean “glass skin” glow, and micro-doses of Botox, to those with considerably longer-lasting effects. A IS FOR AQUAFACIAL Clean, clear skin will never go out of style. Enter the Aquafacial, a non-invasive facial treatment that combines deep cleansing, exfoliating and oxygenation. Results—ranging from improved texture to reduced fine lines—are said to be immediate, with no downtime. B IS FOR BOTOX Botox—a brand of botulinum toxin, a…

If you’re looking for a reason to skip the Netflix binge and hit the gym, here’s one that might just make you jump off the couch and get moving: working out is the ultimate spa treatment, and the best part is that you can do it for free! You’ve most likely heard about post-workout glow, but looking radiant isn’t the only skincare benefit of staying active. In fact, that’s just the tip of the iceberg because the list of beauty perks that come with regular exercise is practically endless. From unclogging pores and boosting collagen to reducing stress and enhancing your skin’s repair mechanisms, there’s a treasure trove of beauty rewards waiting to be claimed. Let’s dive into how your next sweat session is your ticket to a natural beauty…