tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73289046279679214332024-03-19T14:39:53.861+08:00Peggy Loh ~ My Johor StoriesPeggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.comBlogger1556125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-81576120267462097742024-03-19T14:39:00.000+08:002024-03-19T14:39:21.573+08:00A longer Buffet Ala Bazar 28 Hari<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Aware that people enjoy
browsing in Ramadan bazaars for favourite food and drinks to break their fast,
the Gleneagles Terrace Restaurant at Pulai Springs Resort successfully
presented their Ramadan buffet in the theme, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Buffet Ala</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bazar 28 Hari</i>,
since 2019.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yQqVbC5OCT5XiG4M1NbP8FzAwPNuGEitDkY-TlT4WOt3gCc95feSrBTYmK2X21bVTubT-al-DSXIubNBcup9ojr9K_vb2RP95Yz9wnSio34NaAjPODu7v_ssKG-WwXcXEYyO8fcrMurNfBgwyxe-8_tiDAUFXCKPckTN4M3PCcGajN4GwWJkWHJ1/s4018/IMG_2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3006" data-original-width="4018" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-yQqVbC5OCT5XiG4M1NbP8FzAwPNuGEitDkY-TlT4WOt3gCc95feSrBTYmK2X21bVTubT-al-DSXIubNBcup9ojr9K_vb2RP95Yz9wnSio34NaAjPODu7v_ssKG-WwXcXEYyO8fcrMurNfBgwyxe-8_tiDAUFXCKPckTN4M3PCcGajN4GwWJkWHJ1/s320/IMG_2021.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bunting I spotted along the way<br />into Gleneagles Terrace Restaurant<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The “28 Hari” simply means
the duration of 28 days in the Ramadan month when this specially curated buffet
spread will be served, mainly from bazaar-style stalls.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I was pleased to be back at
the Resort and saw simple signage that directed diners to walk from the open
carpark (where parking is Free!) towards the Gleneagles Terrace Restaurant
where ushers at the entrance will guide diners to their tables.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As I followed these signs
and made my way to the Restaurant, I paused to look at the eye-catching bunting
which proudly announced, “This Year, Even Longer!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk4-X2ULFIaP9EMhVN6tztIh-EkdZ7HO0x-LnMT61-s5ue_l0wYql4bNrZKxFXMELcBrFqVYnUZmF4me_C4hQawNrRZz_RFMfv8Sl10HUrVMGSgtF1eqH7vfkkYccBstBry349FgP2Ti-TMQCeb9oOLp9nVQJswZEpGuXLeaK9eSRlfVxGG9rv8QTB/s5292/IMG_1118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5292" data-original-width="3356" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk4-X2ULFIaP9EMhVN6tztIh-EkdZ7HO0x-LnMT61-s5ue_l0wYql4bNrZKxFXMELcBrFqVYnUZmF4me_C4hQawNrRZz_RFMfv8Sl10HUrVMGSgtF1eqH7vfkkYccBstBry349FgP2Ti-TMQCeb9oOLp9nVQJswZEpGuXLeaK9eSRlfVxGG9rv8QTB/s320/IMG_1118.JPG" width="203" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A whole roasted lamb,<br /><i>Kambing Bakar</i>, on the spit<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">When I arrived at the
outdoor terrace, I saw that it was neatly covered by canopies with one side of
the terrace lined by a row of bazaar stalls – one after another – that spanned
the entire length of the terrace, all the way to the swimming pools.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">From the first stall that
served skewers of freshly grilled satay, there were 26 stalls set up along this
terrace, as far as my eyes could see.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The start of the Bazaar
was marked by the Barbecue Section where <i>Kambing Bakar</i>, a whole roasted
lamb was being roasted on a spit. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This section also served a
range of barbecued items like Honey Chicken, Grilled Lamb Shoulder, Teriyaki
Sausage, Turmeric Marinated Fish and Beef Steak, to savour with a choice of
sauces.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiURUt9EYDbPtY1OAlKwM2hX56u-UTEq2jD64TU0NMYREc6k5okp2rNtv1rUOSUbZhwI8oDw8dwsPbeNODm7cm7vzO1izSuWT5kyFTmwIozx8vqImtVwl1onwdNjumo-wbOidp_bdiCyCqZKtXnly_h5FkQaltSQgpqzg6qkhf6_JMimVxRElsO7Be/s3940/IMG_2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2898" data-original-width="3940" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiURUt9EYDbPtY1OAlKwM2hX56u-UTEq2jD64TU0NMYREc6k5okp2rNtv1rUOSUbZhwI8oDw8dwsPbeNODm7cm7vzO1izSuWT5kyFTmwIozx8vqImtVwl1onwdNjumo-wbOidp_bdiCyCqZKtXnly_h5FkQaltSQgpqzg6qkhf6_JMimVxRElsO7Be/s320/IMG_2024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A row of live-cooking stalls along the terrace<br />as far as my eyes could see...<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">I was told that there were
more stalls ahead so I did not hesitate to trek down the terrace to see for
myself, how this row of bazaar stalls was longer than ever before.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">[A gentle reminder to
diners; Do explore all the way to the end of this long row of stalls to
discover the exciting choices offered in this Bazaar at Gleneagles Terrace
Restaurant.] <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The culinary team led by
Sous Chef Tom, has prepared a wide range of local and traditional favourites
with Middle Eastern, Western and Korean international specialties along with fresh
and mixed salads, pickles, crisps, desserts and drinks.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9wC-bNROsIz2vhiIc6QVCBIIVUxcuLimWvXCvIZWY7VOyAhQvMtleBZJsrt0DO3VHbjahmUlbYawncCVwMPMtsytf0DtxGA2cZbQ3P6ZfJMbqqrplmW7gHBexW91JJvvWuLMbZixCbv-76v8dpg3K1nGxaCk80J4FV54G_6WGX9xr6sVYruvFdjQ/s5472/IMG_1182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9wC-bNROsIz2vhiIc6QVCBIIVUxcuLimWvXCvIZWY7VOyAhQvMtleBZJsrt0DO3VHbjahmUlbYawncCVwMPMtsytf0DtxGA2cZbQ3P6ZfJMbqqrplmW7gHBexW91JJvvWuLMbZixCbv-76v8dpg3K1nGxaCk80J4FV54G_6WGX9xr6sVYruvFdjQ/s320/IMG_1182.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshly grilled beef and chicken satay<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">It was interesting to
observe that each stall was a live-cooking station for diners to pick their
choices of ingredients to be freshly prepared for them or diners may select
from a range of gravies or items to enjoy.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 58.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
Bazaar sought to serve something new each year and I was pleased to discover
the stall for <i>Nasi Kandar ala Pulai</i> where diners may enjoy white rice
with their choice of rich gravies made with meat, poultry and vegetables.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 58.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 58.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0uZkj5IhiSnhaTBoqKFLC0gHpbvXvmIioF1PqX_-bG8FRCadLtj2Iibvi4BvZpOuPIZvjKi5v5Axanis1Pe0DP5lOoQJdD-HxSfrIJFSi6-43kU_Orqal5iomRcPwpd3ua-VW7ffUxlYya6tpVYfWkgHrR43OAN8aCn8VtxgTkb_0TAn7xN4_mEfy/s4022/IMG_2026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3012" data-original-width="4022" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0uZkj5IhiSnhaTBoqKFLC0gHpbvXvmIioF1PqX_-bG8FRCadLtj2Iibvi4BvZpOuPIZvjKi5v5Axanis1Pe0DP5lOoQJdD-HxSfrIJFSi6-43kU_Orqal5iomRcPwpd3ua-VW7ffUxlYya6tpVYfWkgHrR43OAN8aCn8VtxgTkb_0TAn7xN4_mEfy/s320/IMG_2026.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ingredients to create your own <i>Nasi Kerabu</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Lovers
of rice will be thrilled with the whole lamb shanks served at the stall for <i>Nasi
Arab ala Pulai</i> and the refreshing <i>Nasi Kerabu</i> flavours at the stall
dubbed, <i>Warung Pantai Timur </i>or the East Coast Stall.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 58.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 58.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There
was also a stall that served packets of traditional <i>Nasi Lemak</i> wrapped
in fragrant banana leaves to savour with a choice of deep-fried items like
squid, prawns and crabs.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Diners who preferred to
break their fast differently (not with rice) may place their order for
freshly-made pasta prepared within the Grana Padano Cheese Wheel.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6m9bZfzpUcwdTPQzFxz19l77uuePfHnmOHDGKts18d44-jHmy_Xir0mZe3DNraILV8LX0wpBmzL29JWwHXvBRyVrSgn7H8NgW9KY2vViFB2wOVIkacd_llcj3m6_P2L7wLQ0QLrUF1456rYIq4JX5uOlO_mxcP-wFIzDf_vvQx8gN05tkztTclLuw/s5364/IMG_1177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3478" data-original-width="5364" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6m9bZfzpUcwdTPQzFxz19l77uuePfHnmOHDGKts18d44-jHmy_Xir0mZe3DNraILV8LX0wpBmzL29JWwHXvBRyVrSgn7H8NgW9KY2vViFB2wOVIkacd_llcj3m6_P2L7wLQ0QLrUF1456rYIq4JX5uOlO_mxcP-wFIzDf_vvQx8gN05tkztTclLuw/s320/IMG_1177.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A rich beef broth with oxtail and beef bones<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Going with the flow of the
Korean Wave, this Bazaar also featured a stall that served freshly fried
chicken in popular Korean flavours like Spicy Fried and Soy Garlic Fried. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Another new item in this
Bazaar must be <i>Lokching</i>, a traditional street snack popular in Kelantan
that borrowed its name from neighbouring Thailand. These are skewers of grilled
sausages usually made from fish, also available in flavours mixed with cheese
or chicken and savoured with a sweet dip sauce. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VMsW6HScxbS8K7GDao4w91q7_Bo9wKyx0H-EeEHEOxf-geGSID7oBCX18hMWQOMKt3E0eT0zeeuBWk_WlxHwcoKInh2agyuBiwtPYkOVKIofJ7Dp8eu277TiGwo5TaQnmlk1ZDpHdBLAUE5sMWte0zVau7w13h-x6A3jg6Tf9APKhRq1fSpexAi8/s3788/IMG_2025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3788" data-original-width="2664" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VMsW6HScxbS8K7GDao4w91q7_Bo9wKyx0H-EeEHEOxf-geGSID7oBCX18hMWQOMKt3E0eT0zeeuBWk_WlxHwcoKInh2agyuBiwtPYkOVKIofJ7Dp8eu277TiGwo5TaQnmlk1ZDpHdBLAUE5sMWte0zVau7w13h-x6A3jg6Tf9APKhRq1fSpexAi8/s320/IMG_2025.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshly-made Som Tam salad<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">At the stall for Johor
specialties like signature<i> Asam Pedas</i> and <i>Gulai Lemak</i>, the
serving staff will simmer the diner’s pick of fish from a choice of pre-cooked
fish like Ikan Pari, Ikan Siakap, Ikan Kembung or Ikan Tenggiri, in the
selected gravy before serving it piping hot.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 58.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Another
popular choice must be traditional Sup Tulang Merah also known as Sup Gear Box,
drizzled with sambal kicap (spicy dark sauce) and savoured with slices of
French loaf.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 162.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 162.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Other
popular items in the Bazaar were Mee Kolok ala Pulai, Ketupat and Lemang to
savour with Beef or Chicken <i>serunding</i>, freshly-made Som Tam, a Thai
salad, Murtabak Cheese, Roti John, Shawarma ala Pulai, and Oden-oden served in
a choice of soups.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 155.1pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In fact, one stall was
dedicated to serving refreshing Coconut Shake, a delicious dessert drink made
popular at Klebang, Melaka while another stall served deep-fried Durian
fritters.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlZcg-QM1kjgEwqJI9M1Vw7o0Uc1A8SpVxzEwb4_xCRpAM6lbKvHxcfjDRH_2AA8yiWJkPy488BVIyB5mmvWVqNYLTO0LHRVg-n2H6kZJDBvPF_kMYbvvAhjjI7rXqwDIf1n7kpmyPOMIThIr60KotAD2ThbIBxzt1puTI3rf2xWMsVoZ3yGuU2io/s5472/IMG_1119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlZcg-QM1kjgEwqJI9M1Vw7o0Uc1A8SpVxzEwb4_xCRpAM6lbKvHxcfjDRH_2AA8yiWJkPy488BVIyB5mmvWVqNYLTO0LHRVg-n2H6kZJDBvPF_kMYbvvAhjjI7rXqwDIf1n7kpmyPOMIThIr60KotAD2ThbIBxzt1puTI3rf2xWMsVoZ3yGuU2io/s320/IMG_1119.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friendly reminders in<br />signs placed at the buffet<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">I was pleased to see the <i>Love
Food-Hate Waste</i> signs placed around the buffet that reminded diners to,
“Take what you need, eat what you take; Let’s end buffet waste for good!” </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The best part about a
buffet was the privilege to return for another portion if we so wished for more,
so diners must make it a practice to finish what they took from the buffet and
not waste good food.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 155.1pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 123.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">At
the outdoor section of the Restaurant, there were jars of crisps and crackers,
piquant pickles, appetizing Malaysian and Thai salads in a variety of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">kerabu</i> and a range of fresh local greens
like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ulam-ulam kampong</i> to savour with
a choice of traditional sambal sauces.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 123.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 123.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">No
Ramadan buffet is complete without fresh cut fruits and a range of local
desserts like sweet broths and tempting western desserts like cakes, pastries,
jellies and puddings, so head indoors to the Restaurant to find your favourite
sweets. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 173.65pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 123.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLKNez9ZFE15vXS5C6g6iEm2u0mSLJl9wsZq3nhoY2cdg-G_gxRpF_5yIj9pa6c7pRxgEJG4lCXI8lA_L8hBmqQyciQcHmUeSf490BfygiKeFlZjDp607ghF7xqYP_XLIgXT6FerrEcidymAQS1XZyQI4WyNBKMQdHLcF7-vxim1gE3UOmwXr0fkeJ/s4026/IMG_2028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3018" data-original-width="4026" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLKNez9ZFE15vXS5C6g6iEm2u0mSLJl9wsZq3nhoY2cdg-G_gxRpF_5yIj9pa6c7pRxgEJG4lCXI8lA_L8hBmqQyciQcHmUeSf490BfygiKeFlZjDp607ghF7xqYP_XLIgXT6FerrEcidymAQS1XZyQI4WyNBKMQdHLcF7-vxim1gE3UOmwXr0fkeJ/s320/IMG_2028.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A section for the desserts inside the Restaurant<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">One
of the fun things to do at the buffet must be to assemble a choice of
ingredients and top it with shaved ice to create your very own <i>Air Batu Campur</i> or ABC and icy cendol.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 123.05pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Don’t miss the two live
stations outdoors (opposite each other) where one serves delicious popcorn while
the other serves <i>kunafa</i>, a traditional Arab dessert made with spun
pastry and cheese, topped with minced pistachios. Also try the Red Velvet
version topped with clotted cream. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There was indeed, a great
deal to savour in one sitting, so diners were encouraged to enjoy a leisurely
breaking of fast meal with the added pleasure of watching a movie on a large
screen, at the adjacent landscaped garden, while munching freshly-made popcorn.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 201.2pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1BK2uieo7FwYWonhet_LUlRMHozdIAn_PTMTvNxSZ6zlHoZ-0Fle6tb12rO7AM1l9_RUv2jIFHuU2FNrNK2cMVxhwZMkIs04Jgg2J7DzNSrhJx-UBY_GofRFUnqlyaqQL6fyU8xmrCTbbK23V-a-meq-cjtmXwgAy2Uw14qAFjnmeA-9co22ARUGU/s3884/IMG_2033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2816" data-original-width="3884" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1BK2uieo7FwYWonhet_LUlRMHozdIAn_PTMTvNxSZ6zlHoZ-0Fle6tb12rO7AM1l9_RUv2jIFHuU2FNrNK2cMVxhwZMkIs04Jgg2J7DzNSrhJx-UBY_GofRFUnqlyaqQL6fyU8xmrCTbbK23V-a-meq-cjtmXwgAy2Uw14qAFjnmeA-9co22ARUGU/s320/IMG_2033.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diners watching a movie on the big screen<br />at the adjacent landscaped garden<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The <b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Buffet Ala Bazar 28 Hari</i></b> will
be served at the Gleneagles Terrace Restaurant from 6.30pm to 9.00pm daily,<b> from now till April 9</b>.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Prices are RM138 nett per
adult and RM69 nett per child aged 4 to 12 years. For every ten (10) paying
adults, one dines for Free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For more info and
reservations, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Tel: +607 – 521 2121,
WhatsApp Tel: +6016 733 2918, +6016 733 2919 </b>or email: enquiry@pulaisprings.com<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There is a
designated room prepared for Maghrib prayers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Pulai Springs Resort is
located at 20km Jalan Pontian Lama, 81110 Pulai, Johor. <o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-62637217017594819782024-03-17T12:31:00.000+08:002024-03-17T12:31:13.287+08:00Selera Warisan Meldrum returns this Ramadan<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Selera Warisan Meldrum</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">, simply translated as <i>A Taste of Meldrum Heritage</i>,
is the theme for a menu of traditional favourites served in a breaking-of-fast
buffet spread at GBW Hotel Johor Baru that was so successful that it was brought
back again this Ramadan.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqFkvP9ityquFGrml67uyHBZkMjmvxm7NXtMTbOxc15QzQ8Q67fYZzSAfbU8vTilXwRVzSkrnfZMYRzqfh40MXWgWFRI6y7lbnzuueoH47Nrdt_vjnIWVFxdyGLkcAFjwejISnVXhRfWXa5Lvtj_hrOktPbw5weOkQMx5qbqj2ieAeDN2AEtnckoU/s5410/IMG_1069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3554" data-original-width="5410" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqFkvP9ityquFGrml67uyHBZkMjmvxm7NXtMTbOxc15QzQ8Q67fYZzSAfbU8vTilXwRVzSkrnfZMYRzqfh40MXWgWFRI6y7lbnzuueoH47Nrdt_vjnIWVFxdyGLkcAFjwejISnVXhRfWXa5Lvtj_hrOktPbw5weOkQMx5qbqj2ieAeDN2AEtnckoU/s320/IMG_1069.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh cut fruits and desserts to satisfy every<br />sweet tooth at the breaking-of-fast<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">It
was good to be back again at GBW Hotel to savour a breaking-of-fast buffet
dubbed, <i>Selera Warisan Meldrum Kembali Lagi</i> or </span><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">A Taste of Meldrum
Heritage returns again.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Strategically
located on Bukit Meldrum, this buffet theme was named after its historical location
in the heart of Johor Baru and aims to satisfy the cravings of diners homesick
for homecooked specialties and for families to bond over familiar favourite
food.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9JH6PgRCTvVryTLXon_fvUSunZjGekCLXpyJGmZzU8omKip1knCNv5gO9QoThn17EKZ883UxzqMkDVvbv5s-JZ1i6JX2utUcJV9Dc2dlLFuGz7W6NajgN-niWb_pps6dt4-PGB-7Gf3OTY7ChJRBFoDtaFb4v4CBTP1mD5qmONDpUAbRtPBeiaRN/s5466/IMG_1080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3640" data-original-width="5466" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9JH6PgRCTvVryTLXon_fvUSunZjGekCLXpyJGmZzU8omKip1knCNv5gO9QoThn17EKZ883UxzqMkDVvbv5s-JZ1i6JX2utUcJV9Dc2dlLFuGz7W6NajgN-niWb_pps6dt4-PGB-7Gf3OTY7ChJRBFoDtaFb4v4CBTP1mD5qmONDpUAbRtPBeiaRN/s320/IMG_1080.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serving diner with juicy portions of<br />the whole roasted lamb or <i>Kambing Golek</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Chef
Karim and his culinary team at the GBW Hotel Johor Baru are presenting this
sumptuous spread of familiar dishes served within the café and which also spans
across the length of the hotel lobby with live-cooking stations in the outdoor terrace.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
were more than 100 dishes in this generous spread for the breaking-of-fast
buffet that will not only tantalize the diners’ tastebuds but also give them that
much longed-for comfort and taste of home. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinL7ws2AXFuu3fD7aRptRELE5VszfyBZVCoa_14E66myy4nybxwuO8hXSNppqnKvAph5IWmNQxwItFWgnp9XRwGQYDd58h1bPZaC-eqTnFMgXdmlKMTn3RlJo5RU_LSAVlL-f0aoGMsprLr-k4LpHaUunuXsViPEMX2ZmfBuFIIeD9qXd8YyZHFDo-/s5472/IMG_1061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinL7ws2AXFuu3fD7aRptRELE5VszfyBZVCoa_14E66myy4nybxwuO8hXSNppqnKvAph5IWmNQxwItFWgnp9XRwGQYDd58h1bPZaC-eqTnFMgXdmlKMTn3RlJo5RU_LSAVlL-f0aoGMsprLr-k4LpHaUunuXsViPEMX2ZmfBuFIIeD9qXd8YyZHFDo-/s320/IMG_1061.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crackers to savor with your meal<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">In
the Appetizer section the buffet begins with a choice of preserved dates and a
range of mixed salads in various types of <i>Kerabu</i> and fresh ingredients
provided for diners to mix their own Rojak Petis and Gado-Gado. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
are choices of local crackers like <i>keropok</i> made with fish and prawns as
well as pickled fruits to whet the appetite for more food from the hot buffet.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Familiar
dishes in the hot buffet included Kupang Masak Merah Berserai (mussels), <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Sotong
Paprik (squid), Udang Sambal Petai (prawns), Kambing Rendang (lamb), Daging Biryani
(beef), Ikan Bawal Percik (fish), Ayam Kuzi (chicken) and Telur Bistik (eggs).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXx0YGXMuIM8paCcFsL5_wcvRvXZdcGOPoZrRuPT3rHtxDWqfd70Ngihhe7egpyCu6jlH-g1-eMY0TLz-DOgGi4M7ZG3P-1GahdYw6gUMdGdKP4cHHsHcuYe5eWzZ08LP-O91rd33235bZCZmoxuEPwzVc_5ih-nco_pIf9SSIJuXXXnLn5lE5dq2i/s5238/IMG_1084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3256" data-original-width="5238" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXx0YGXMuIM8paCcFsL5_wcvRvXZdcGOPoZrRuPT3rHtxDWqfd70Ngihhe7egpyCu6jlH-g1-eMY0TLz-DOgGi4M7ZG3P-1GahdYw6gUMdGdKP4cHHsHcuYe5eWzZ08LP-O91rd33235bZCZmoxuEPwzVc_5ih-nco_pIf9SSIJuXXXnLn5lE5dq2i/s320/IMG_1084.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The aroma of freshly grilled skewers of satay!<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
daily menu served in the hot buffet is a range of popular local dishes prepared
with meat, poultry, fish, seafood and shellfish as well as local vegetables in
menus that will rotate so that diners may savour something different each time
they dined at this buffet during Ramadan.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the outdoor section, live-cooking stations, designed as stalls, serve Kambing Golek
or whole roasted lamb, Ayam Golek, Beef and Chicken Satay, Chicken Shawarma, a
choice of noodles like Curry Noodles and Mee Rebus, as well as stir-fried
noodles.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOf8WHgaHMrLk_ZJWpM8wCG10b9XriTAwEMXZ-0CM1zEX9hErl4Vq2Pt6a-7POZKKtnGsNPfM0AkkEwIuCfOcWFT2baBw87gpc1G_hD7JZuz4rU05LKozdxGXuBicVmFMxTygAGd26Hw-onmxxshMSZlmKL4U1I_KRbuf6de27u9auZxZLMN-VXcpA/s4032/IMG_2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOf8WHgaHMrLk_ZJWpM8wCG10b9XriTAwEMXZ-0CM1zEX9hErl4Vq2Pt6a-7POZKKtnGsNPfM0AkkEwIuCfOcWFT2baBw87gpc1G_hD7JZuz4rU05LKozdxGXuBicVmFMxTygAGd26Hw-onmxxshMSZlmKL4U1I_KRbuf6de27u9auZxZLMN-VXcpA/s320/IMG_2019.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sticks of Beef and Chicken satay topped<br />with tasty peanut sauce<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Rice
lovers will enjoy<i> Nasi Briyani Ambok</i> (lamb) served with <i>dhall</i> or
lentil gravy. Don’t miss the counter for a taste of comforting <i>Bubur Lambuk</i>,
kept warm in a deep soup pot and garnish the rice porridge with condiments for
the best experience of this traditional breaking-of-fast staple.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">At
the GBW Aneka Sup stall, diners may taste a rich beefy soup and add in a choice
of cut meat, carrots and potatoes, topped with a dollop of spicy dark sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Murtabak</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">
and Roti Jala or net bread are freshly-made to eat with gravies while the
Goreng-Goreng Bukit Meldrum stall offers deep-fried items like fried bananas
with cheese, sweet potato slices, small spring rolls, samosa and cubes of
deep-fried durian.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRncSuC5AksCqlK_VRNQZZ8qtqk5t4DtLCA47OeU1x4BsYg688xo76xvU9xwa34X-9cvIxRLhA4S_P0wgt9UgebmcI_7HHLYybFjTrxIsw2iv5Fg1Eb0JXuQGqm8LTFykiFkdrCWZB-OjGNKBsbUzPfaHQa4QE0EMiYiqEX2NDzxMh48LpQDd3qfE/s5472/IMG_1090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRncSuC5AksCqlK_VRNQZZ8qtqk5t4DtLCA47OeU1x4BsYg688xo76xvU9xwa34X-9cvIxRLhA4S_P0wgt9UgebmcI_7HHLYybFjTrxIsw2iv5Fg1Eb0JXuQGqm8LTFykiFkdrCWZB-OjGNKBsbUzPfaHQa4QE0EMiYiqEX2NDzxMh48LpQDd3qfE/s320/IMG_1090.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take your pick of ingredients to savour<br />with a piping hot bowl of beef broth<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Indoors,
the eye-catching, colourful array of cakes, tarts, puddings and pastries are
designed to tempt while an assortment of local <i>kuih</i> and sweet broths vie
for equal attention.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
meal ends sweetly with a choice of warm and cold desserts in the form of <i>Pulut
Serawa Durian</i>, <i>Cendol Durian</i>, shaved ice ABC-Cendol, a range of
ice-cream flavours and fresh cut fruits.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
is a choice of thirst-quenching cold drinks as well as a range of hot beverages
like Coffee, Tea, Milo and <i>Teh Tarik</i> or pulled tea.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Prayer
rooms are prepared for the convenience of Muslim diners, and parking spaces are
provided in the indoor carpark. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8p-QGigZmhtI_wl0s41UvAkSXO4XILkN882mK3ACr1Gq5L_Y07vgiSAfJs-eSJx4RrZb1BN1DoHRInJiXzD84cd_7RWsQQIU99xVRnen-rQR5fk2emoODhTZEJgqzgnX3I3S8SXvf5KbLraIl2NsSkvLEduBucEbwofDFpUoQLNEJ5DmI-w2mcwIy/s4032/IMG_2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8p-QGigZmhtI_wl0s41UvAkSXO4XILkN882mK3ACr1Gq5L_Y07vgiSAfJs-eSJx4RrZb1BN1DoHRInJiXzD84cd_7RWsQQIU99xVRnen-rQR5fk2emoODhTZEJgqzgnX3I3S8SXvf5KbLraIl2NsSkvLEduBucEbwofDFpUoQLNEJ5DmI-w2mcwIy/s320/IMG_2020.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional Bubur Lambuk<br />topped with condiments<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">After
the leisurely meal, parking tickets should be endorsed at the hotel reception
to enjoy a flat rate parking fee.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Selera Warisan Meldrum Kembali Lagi</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> Ramadan Buffet is served daily from 6.30pm to 9.30pm
at D’ Meldrum Café on the lobby level of the hotel <b>from now to April 8, 2024</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Take
advantage of the of the <b>Buy 10-Get one Free</b> group deal on the adult
price.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Rate
at RM108 nett per adult, RM58 nett per child aged six to 12 years and RM88 nett
for seniors aged above 60 years.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Also
check out the cake counter for a takeaway deal of 30% discount on cream cakes.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">GBW
Hotel is located at No. 9R Jalan Bukit Meldrum, 80300 Johor Baru, Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
reservations, Tel: +6016 710 0048, +6016 723 3558 and +6016 710 0073.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
more info, visit official Facebook page and website: www.gbwhotel.com.my<o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-548477476929886922024-03-14T15:39:00.006+08:002024-03-14T17:09:15.273+08:00Meeting media from the Middle East<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
I received the invitation from </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas to
meet media members visiting from the Middle East, I did not hesitate to ask for
more information about the publications they were writing for.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhaNPrviFRnoO_etW9lJC5aJIo2vutUXH8TR3UDOLnqgL7i2yVHa_WcFvVrE_XB5Wk7kMYxK4sAdJM1Am4B5To76vjRw0B1JooSRp3ImBpgnr05oHpvWx6kuckMJLY9nxUsmLJNrdbhGT3dXBeHYWbS4LtgoHT9hhVkM5-Xv-EE6vTdMP7mHysw6o/s1280/ac6d8a32-127e-4439-87b3-998988534689.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhaNPrviFRnoO_etW9lJC5aJIo2vutUXH8TR3UDOLnqgL7i2yVHa_WcFvVrE_XB5Wk7kMYxK4sAdJM1Am4B5To76vjRw0B1JooSRp3ImBpgnr05oHpvWx6kuckMJLY9nxUsmLJNrdbhGT3dXBeHYWbS4LtgoHT9hhVkM5-Xv-EE6vTdMP7mHysw6o/s320/ac6d8a32-127e-4439-87b3-998988534689.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With media representatives from the Middle East<br />along with Dane Halpin [2nd from Right]<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This was of interest to me
because I was once the Johor-based writer for <i>Travel Times</i>, a pull-out
section dedicated to travel that came with The New Straits Times, a leading
English newspaper here that also had an online version.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Last October, when <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/10/stories-by-sea-with-german-journalists.html">Anantara Desaru Coast invited me to meet with German media representatives</a> from leading
newspapers and magazines based in Austria, Switzerland and Germany, I had the
pleasure to relive moments when I was in their shoes, visiting destinations to
write from my experience for the Travel newspapers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Once again, this event will be
hosted at The Observatory, the bar which overlooks the beach and swimming
pools, with a panoramic view of the resort and beyond to the South China Sea in
the horizon.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUjfcFgngWGoWKf7Ar4RK4IXpx7ZI-WCljTO2WNPEFieJ09lpKcMiMrpGCPGkSaiti8slnRe2BzjIF_aKcoFW1OMYJP9EqHzwV71yO_f21RiV7x20Txvejj1_LNU2AggXVLdI7TDPFpU7Yx4h5DtUzeaRvfcaA3_FlgdyfNauHcEoJRUmdrYacGYuw/s1280/2cbf0ef9-0926-4b84-9ded-24bb283b0509.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUjfcFgngWGoWKf7Ar4RK4IXpx7ZI-WCljTO2WNPEFieJ09lpKcMiMrpGCPGkSaiti8slnRe2BzjIF_aKcoFW1OMYJP9EqHzwV71yO_f21RiV7x20Txvejj1_LNU2AggXVLdI7TDPFpU7Yx4h5DtUzeaRvfcaA3_FlgdyfNauHcEoJRUmdrYacGYuw/s320/2cbf0ef9-0926-4b84-9ded-24bb283b0509.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An inter-active time with the media reps<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When I arrived at The
Observatory, dark clouds were low and heavy with threatening rain. The wind
that evening in early March was at such a high velocity that whipped my
signature chic hairdo into what I would call, a wind-blown look.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I gave up on styling my hair back
into shape when I was introduced to </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Dane
Halpin, Director of Public Relations & Communications, MINOR Hotels, who
was visiting from their corporate office in Thailand</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">As always, Anantara Desaru Coast
General Manager, Christian Gerart, gave me a warm welcome to the Resort. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7KEg8KPrnwQDZ8RBTka46I87ISCirbhgT4DbjlpuVSLNxbumK40f2N2bTwuhBDRpCbPl5kw1l8qiUsgdCQ9C4WxAF3No_7U6gSFJUURUHaAb9n8lVzxhMsecbkNRGeOQ5rDdHx3hxRwbv2UcAfekLG7WDFowKxe7fqNGkLVFhi8bCgBpDmJnlfGN/s1280/41dff8c5-5881-4619-b4a8-1595b08bf043.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7KEg8KPrnwQDZ8RBTka46I87ISCirbhgT4DbjlpuVSLNxbumK40f2N2bTwuhBDRpCbPl5kw1l8qiUsgdCQ9C4WxAF3No_7U6gSFJUURUHaAb9n8lVzxhMsecbkNRGeOQ5rDdHx3hxRwbv2UcAfekLG7WDFowKxe7fqNGkLVFhi8bCgBpDmJnlfGN/s320/41dff8c5-5881-4619-b4a8-1595b08bf043.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isabella [Left] and Dane [Right] kept me<br />engaged in a lively conversation over dinner<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">After a brief chat, Christian
left for another appointment while Dane joined the guests from the Middle East
in getting to know more about Johor through <i>My Johor Stories</i>.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">When we gathered around the table
prepared for the event, introductions were made and I was able to put a name to
each face.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Isabella
Sullivan who writes for Near+Far, an online magazine that covers luxury travel,
including know-how, travel trends, up-and-coming destinations and
tried-and-tested hotels.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVeo7KT5w3Lktb9_M1ThL6TQIMIesnirtJomzfFp1jNY2pOQ1l6ESUVgLBTlnsrbZKScVrXKfe20UyU81azB_IpPVr__TxpX4WQp_QbINmcFOsDrw8hjdbdtBK4dI5IBghrLgql15DZ7NbHYZfMkUkuBJgbX5mAzcXxFoac192xiI2ikPhjZBYLQcx/s1280/f7b57c4f-fa16-431e-8870-273e8952a9d8.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVeo7KT5w3Lktb9_M1ThL6TQIMIesnirtJomzfFp1jNY2pOQ1l6ESUVgLBTlnsrbZKScVrXKfe20UyU81azB_IpPVr__TxpX4WQp_QbINmcFOsDrw8hjdbdtBK4dI5IBghrLgql15DZ7NbHYZfMkUkuBJgbX5mAzcXxFoac192xiI2ikPhjZBYLQcx/s320/f7b57c4f-fa16-431e-8870-273e8952a9d8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharing an old photograph with the media reps<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
Near+Far website was launched in March 2023 for curious, modern Middle Eastern
travellers who are in search of beautiful places, things and experiences.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Selina
Denman who writes for Conde Nast Traveller Middle East, a regional edition of
US-based Conde Nast Traveller magazine, and covers luxury travel, providing
inspiration and advice for discerning travellers seeking unique, unforgettable
and luxurious travel experiences.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">And
Emily Baxter who writes for Destinations of the World News, a luxury travel
magazine that covers the hottest destinations, most luxurious hotels and
extraordinary travel experiences.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGu_XIdNCwA8k5jReoa_4qfIYL2rWsYqEFvqD0pDU0Y5k2eqNfIz3SiE59tLGTsgbI4eSs-St9q4GuwXpFK8xVQDQdG6mHbqnryN8FdGuuMnEGxZVp6-SZ8utt5OZpOBounTiYfsJvRFBGNTqBNHBLAKjMYliSbwtLFK5yMMc_45kBX0T-M3rQ-0nY/s1280/691caa64-95b1-4ba8-8e26-be8b8ac30774.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGu_XIdNCwA8k5jReoa_4qfIYL2rWsYqEFvqD0pDU0Y5k2eqNfIz3SiE59tLGTsgbI4eSs-St9q4GuwXpFK8xVQDQdG6mHbqnryN8FdGuuMnEGxZVp6-SZ8utt5OZpOBounTiYfsJvRFBGNTqBNHBLAKjMYliSbwtLFK5yMMc_45kBX0T-M3rQ-0nY/s320/691caa64-95b1-4ba8-8e26-be8b8ac30774.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guests at The Observatory can enjoy reading<br />the trilogy of <i>My Johor Stories</i> placed there<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Launched
in July 2006, this monthly magazine is for first and business class travellers,
five-star hotel guests and travel professionals.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Joining
these media representatives was Duaa Radwan of Dash Consultancy, a Public
Relations agency in Dubai that represents Anantara properties in Asia, the Middle
East and Europe.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The guests then received the
trilogy of <i>My Johor Stories</i> tied up in pretty ribbons.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I encouraged the guests to untie
the ribbons and flip through the pages of my 2017 MPH Non-Fiction Bestseller, <i>My
Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People, Rich Heritage</i>, along with <i>My
Johor Stories 2: Interesting Places and Inspirational People</i>, and the final
instalment, <i>My Johor Stories 3: Proudly Johor, Then and Now</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiokbUgtQBE_TtupywPd_Fc0S7dnrTn6qU-ybW1WO4Dj5XDLBozlKfl8EV9gMqs9vH5LwBQVSCSXEkFgbxIcnTNvmpbjSXYSUGZX9aj0xsU_bJYq93o-Srb1A67_R2L2sKPbMbnLZbUqpOfy3jrDY5fau3yfmoif4ZT9q528SrD4mJ-tVAN8gwuz8R1/s1280/252071de-ecc5-4c2b-b258-8e61ff9a5855.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiokbUgtQBE_TtupywPd_Fc0S7dnrTn6qU-ybW1WO4Dj5XDLBozlKfl8EV9gMqs9vH5LwBQVSCSXEkFgbxIcnTNvmpbjSXYSUGZX9aj0xsU_bJYq93o-Srb1A67_R2L2sKPbMbnLZbUqpOfy3jrDY5fau3yfmoif4ZT9q528SrD4mJ-tVAN8gwuz8R1/s320/252071de-ecc5-4c2b-b258-8e61ff9a5855.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying a chat with Duaa Radwan<br />while Dane looks on<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I am glad that <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2022/03/my-johor-stories-at-anantara-desaru.html">Anantara Desaru
Coast understands that <i>people liked to stay in a place with a story</i> </a>and
have been presenting My Johor Stories books to VVIP guests and foreign media so
that they may continue enjoying their experience in Johor by getting to know
more about Johor from my books after their stay at the Resort.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Then I learnt that this media
group visited downtown Johor Baru that morning and passed Sungai Segget – our city’s
main waterway – with stops at the Johor Street of Harmony to see flower stalls
and dessert stalls in Little India, Johor Old Temple, Sikh Temple and traditional
bakers at Salahuddin. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCFK8UpP_PaNssHqnZEdEPxEc8hCqULxi8qBo0hrYAtdP3GjHrtpeD8HDbVYUu8uP4qVgPrWROxL7bXgooxFseQUdmFtRDjoBHs1VWgS_dQXNCBUBJuTQUjnMlefLGtlf4-zBA50LBxUE8QP7OU9XI1Sca_5h4Vl7WRrHWboi7VroLgJkI15AaJzi/s1280/337f5974-3ff3-4176-b023-0b86ae72e9bc.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCFK8UpP_PaNssHqnZEdEPxEc8hCqULxi8qBo0hrYAtdP3GjHrtpeD8HDbVYUu8uP4qVgPrWROxL7bXgooxFseQUdmFtRDjoBHs1VWgS_dQXNCBUBJuTQUjnMlefLGtlf4-zBA50LBxUE8QP7OU9XI1Sca_5h4Vl7WRrHWboi7VroLgJkI15AaJzi/s320/337f5974-3ff3-4176-b023-0b86ae72e9bc.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Showing Dane some old photographs that<br />support my stories in <i>My Johor Stories</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I also learnt that they were
well-travelled media and have stayed at various Anantara properties in
worldwide locations.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Their
brief experience in downtown Johor Baru gave me the starting point to share
with them about Johor culture and heritage and welcomed them to interrupt me
with any queries so that I may clarify and provide any relevant info they may need.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Among interesting snippets about
the Johor rulers, it was my pleasure to share with them briefly about how Johor
developed from the time when forests were felled to produce timber for export,
the first industry in Johor, the rich heritage in road names, as well as our
pepper and gambier heritage and how the motif of these plants were recognised
as a Johor icon.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4AbtijxyX3u5HMHgpCt7px3TEGdhES86DEk4Qx3KBMW23hx1_-rySgArMsSZc6WZkMY9Kdz2Av8SCjzceXhDZYubt7UA3HbIFuucIn2370O097QAXJf0AfQhBMQKOIKNKPSuJ2ynbu3U3d6I02fxqcQ7x8KhCt5kIlQ2Wzo4CAGkdsTbZFG0C8TU/s1280/ba771db9-11f5-4e41-afbe-d385f36fdad8.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4AbtijxyX3u5HMHgpCt7px3TEGdhES86DEk4Qx3KBMW23hx1_-rySgArMsSZc6WZkMY9Kdz2Av8SCjzceXhDZYubt7UA3HbIFuucIn2370O097QAXJf0AfQhBMQKOIKNKPSuJ2ynbu3U3d6I02fxqcQ7x8KhCt5kIlQ2Wzo4CAGkdsTbZFG0C8TU/s320/ba771db9-11f5-4e41-afbe-d385f36fdad8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was happy to autograph my books for the guests<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Because “A picture is worth a
thousand words,” I encouraged them to turn to various pages in my books to
refer to the photos there for them to better understand what I was talking
about. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">As we enjoyed a delightful dinner
together, I continued to answer their curious questions and also took the
opportunity to get to know them.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">While the media representatives are
based in Dubai, Isabella and Selina have lived there longer than Emily and are respected
writers who have earned a reputation as credible sources of information.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieIWTxSfUzkok7-VR_sk2HK_sWvQg0CrgklzB5q0JQV4IfvEUmKfEZgju49df-sFt-tPGKjXcoK7c9vsTLm-rWHk94vBwTjCmwv__MLnodHVhwlU6mCoeha9vseM9yCrxkU_xbcZSSpK-IdmhQheXoiuyLsjDN1xRY2qciWyYLnS4SAH2AH98fNpwj/s1280/8c5279d3-2268-4108-9758-206a5275a311.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieIWTxSfUzkok7-VR_sk2HK_sWvQg0CrgklzB5q0JQV4IfvEUmKfEZgju49df-sFt-tPGKjXcoK7c9vsTLm-rWHk94vBwTjCmwv__MLnodHVhwlU6mCoeha9vseM9yCrxkU_xbcZSSpK-IdmhQheXoiuyLsjDN1xRY2qciWyYLnS4SAH2AH98fNpwj/s320/8c5279d3-2268-4108-9758-206a5275a311.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Duaa and <i>My Johor Stories </i>books<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">That evening when I met Duaa, it marked
the first time I ever met with an Egyptian.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">When she explained that the
meaning of her name was, ‘prayer’ it struck me that her name, Duaa, sounded
similar to <i>doa</i>, the Malay word for ‘prayer.’<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In the course of conversation, I
learned that this was the first time the media from the Middle East visited
Johor and felt deeply honoured to be part of their experience.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">It was very encouraging to know
that their experiences in Johor will be published in their Travel publications
and personally, I was more than pleased that they will also take home a bit of
Johor in <i>My Johor Stories</i> books.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Thank you, Anantara Desaru Coast
Resort & Villas for letting me share with your guests a bit more about
Johor and for your continued support to <i>My Johor Stories</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-13339036064734431012024-03-13T15:41:00.010+08:002024-03-13T16:40:43.595+08:00Selera Citarasa at Tea Garden for Ramadan<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In January 2024, I read the news that
a proudly Johor brand, Tea Garden, was inducted into the prestigious Malaysia
Book of Records with two remarkable feats.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGY-O9ZcMWfI4evmPmf_tYSTbbiWD-zqfJupSJgM-CognwjF43umPcDI210zCwx7DxM1MvHCORCM2jq7olKcnNYsQqROsYzW9_Ybn3N-Apu3CUcN049h-YKe-h_KC08I7_aVmt7qt50jF8aV_KJ7eh_PD0G2lHAlM0R9rDBdi6jqcB2oJ5QUEDx8Y/s3962/IMG_1996.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2930" data-original-width="3962" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGY-O9ZcMWfI4evmPmf_tYSTbbiWD-zqfJupSJgM-CognwjF43umPcDI210zCwx7DxM1MvHCORCM2jq7olKcnNYsQqROsYzW9_Ybn3N-Apu3CUcN049h-YKe-h_KC08I7_aVmt7qt50jF8aV_KJ7eh_PD0G2lHAlM0R9rDBdi6jqcB2oJ5QUEDx8Y/s320/IMG_1996.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Facade of the Tea Garden outlet at Taman Molek<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">As I read on, my mouth watered at
the memory of its taste because Tea Garden earned the recognition for the <i>Most
Sold Baked Herbal Chickens in a Year</i> and the <i>Most Sold Hainanese Milk
Tea in a Year</i>, a very interesting record of achievements.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">During
the recent Chinese New Year season, relatives and friends who came to Johor for
a visit, happened to dine at different Tea Garden outlets and then shared
photographs as well as their positive comments with me.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPH8smiSm1Hp6H2Ud930_7_uiZm9Q7ZQhRw3qAM7bV_-V31cWrXGUvFlbJdaymAAMSZ1rUK0u9kkbhQvVNNDnnTHliwhtHVH3KTS8CGbUQeG2ZRw3ZEL7ngw5uGnt6qn29N5SqbfmnnYITX4upBuLFZhwbg9N9sQKrUy0d0CFVTATbJPZta1MrCCy/s3696/IMG_1999.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3696" data-original-width="2684" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFPH8smiSm1Hp6H2Ud930_7_uiZm9Q7ZQhRw3qAM7bV_-V31cWrXGUvFlbJdaymAAMSZ1rUK0u9kkbhQvVNNDnnTHliwhtHVH3KTS8CGbUQeG2ZRw3ZEL7ngw5uGnt6qn29N5SqbfmnnYITX4upBuLFZhwbg9N9sQKrUy0d0CFVTATbJPZta1MrCCy/s320/IMG_1999.jpg" width="232" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef Dzulkifi and Chef Stephen<br />with the <i>Selera Citarasa</i> spread<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I
have always enjoyed the menu at Tea Garden – that remained consistently good –
and could not help but felt strangely proud to hear the good feedback from
visitors who dined there recently.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Not
long after that, I received an invitation from Tea Garden for a preview of the
new menu for the Ramadan and Raya season, and did not hesitate to accept it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Hosted
at the Tea Garden outlet at Taman Molek, a giant outdoor banner announced that
this café brand was certified Halal for diners to dine with comfort and
confidence.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Established
in Johor Baru in 2005 to serve a menu of authentic Malaysian cuisine, this café
brand has since expanded with over 30 outlets locally in Johor and to the Klang
Valley as well as abroad in Perth, Australia.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisrySDFxJNduRx2fGvqZRQEMbiUwPhig1fygLadF8Yr9FNqpVdXM1fSv8mb148LigzIlKt05db8WdHJd2QxwZWCiQEbBRTRKOlIK_ZcSCRxwZh4zMahLLlpEAdtrnafkxsTkyf038w_C78Hm7t42tNut4M84NsAi0QMT4ioDFBuTTI5ahKkneKvGgx/s4032/IMG_2002.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisrySDFxJNduRx2fGvqZRQEMbiUwPhig1fygLadF8Yr9FNqpVdXM1fSv8mb148LigzIlKt05db8WdHJd2QxwZWCiQEbBRTRKOlIK_ZcSCRxwZh4zMahLLlpEAdtrnafkxsTkyf038w_C78Hm7t42tNut4M84NsAi0QMT4ioDFBuTTI5ahKkneKvGgx/s320/IMG_2002.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A serving of Hainanese milk tea:<br />You may wish to have another cup<br />after one delicious cup!</td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Founded
by Hainanese with four decades of culinary experience, Tea Garden continues to maintain
their founders’ original belief in serving homemade recipes and cooking from
scratch using quality ingredients to ensure that diners will enjoy the wealth
of Malaysian food culture and heritage.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
Ramadan, the culinary team led by Chef Dzulkifli Abdul and Chef Stephen Khiew
have curated a menu of delightful dishes for the breaking-of-fast dubbed <i>Selera
Citarasa</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Staying
true to its tagline, <i>Serving Malaysia’s local best</i>, the festive menu
comprised rice and noodle dishes like <i>Ayam Percik served with Egg Fried Rice</i>,
<i>Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah</i>, Laksa Johor Spaghetti and <i>Sup
Kambing Mamak</i> served with Rice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAcqH7JLY9dSk3JspBwf5jEqInrtAAxyPr9BcZL2_VdDuigBTUTN3VEP_e2FCqtM856w2S3BqprKSsZpNVNcyh7lQ9aKYq78YyJpXpnXbZPyGzCJBnH82SuVcXGHaiq8S1NxAJ5Nz9o17MaTuonrzKxqfj7aati4zZ3xuD4Tq00qDQqqLHgk7hb4l5/s4032/IMG_2008.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAcqH7JLY9dSk3JspBwf5jEqInrtAAxyPr9BcZL2_VdDuigBTUTN3VEP_e2FCqtM856w2S3BqprKSsZpNVNcyh7lQ9aKYq78YyJpXpnXbZPyGzCJBnH82SuVcXGHaiq8S1NxAJ5Nz9o17MaTuonrzKxqfj7aati4zZ3xuD4Tq00qDQqqLHgk7hb4l5/s320/IMG_2008.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Platter of <i>Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
platter of <i>Ayam Percik served with Egg Fried Rice </i>was a clever
combination of Chinese-style egg fried rice with a grilled, tender and boneless
chicken chop topped with a generous drizzle of <i>Percik</i> sauce, complimented
by a side of achar pickles and <i>papadam</i> crisps.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Malaysian
favourite, <i>Nasi Lemak</i> topped with a bull’s eye egg was featured in the <i>Nasi
Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah </i>platter. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
came with a quarter portion of chicken and sides of sambal, achar pickles, chunks
of raw cucumber, toasted anchovies and peanuts.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwDzDjKMdiZ5FbnRwEevH_4L_m05TomjdRkLo5W36aGASDLzEhwFVY2l4R3HQwoEWeeqGQwu92Pu_sO_-Wh4n0ODUguP5NpaOd9SvJ9rHXMKaLGqIN-1k7bpdNjUrgIG45DLHkxR95FDyf768qgxy0qNG_9dwhENIK9O7u970cVHwnLDq0xbI7ZoIm/s5472/IMG_1036.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwDzDjKMdiZ5FbnRwEevH_4L_m05TomjdRkLo5W36aGASDLzEhwFVY2l4R3HQwoEWeeqGQwu92Pu_sO_-Wh4n0ODUguP5NpaOd9SvJ9rHXMKaLGqIN-1k7bpdNjUrgIG45DLHkxR95FDyf768qgxy0qNG_9dwhENIK9O7u970cVHwnLDq0xbI7ZoIm/s320/IMG_1036.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tea Garden version of Laksa Johor Spaghetti<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
Tea Garden version of Laksa Johor was served garnished with slices of <i>bunga
kantan</i> or torch ginger flower and sprigs of <i>daun kesum</i> or Vietnamese
coriander.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Meanwhile
the serving of <i>Sup Kambing Mamak</i> came with a portion of rice and salad that
tasted just right with the side of mouthwatering blend of sambal.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
menu also offers a choice of popular snacks that include pan-fried Gyoza
stuffed with minced chicken and Siew Mai made with minced chicken and shrimps.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjghh1_htvaloFQcDvi2EUOH-jWME5yGkMN5OZj9aQMSrcNacqWiLo2XKaM6IM-zekOyqXaqhnCDQAsIW_xI-Cp7kYaDllrHZlzuKBr-lp99tjKMNm1lEuXLJ7Dz8wlGNyv4lTTV67weOJcgmFAI44p1mRmOaijZEJBgmcQq2hfUaKoJMEISXni1R/s3563/IMG_2006.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2672" data-original-width="3563" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjghh1_htvaloFQcDvi2EUOH-jWME5yGkMN5OZj9aQMSrcNacqWiLo2XKaM6IM-zekOyqXaqhnCDQAsIW_xI-Cp7kYaDllrHZlzuKBr-lp99tjKMNm1lEuXLJ7Dz8wlGNyv4lTTV67weOJcgmFAI44p1mRmOaijZEJBgmcQq2hfUaKoJMEISXni1R/s320/IMG_2006.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taste the rich flavour of <i>Sup Kambing Mamak<br /></i> </td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Another
popular pick at Tea Garden must be the <i>Kentang Goreng</i> Special, potato
fries served with their signature sambal-mayo dip sauce.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Two
refreshing thirst-quenchers featured in this new menu are <i>Soda Bandung
Selasih</i> and <i>Sparkling Kedondong Assam Boi,</i> designed to awake an
appetite for more food.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Diners
may, of course, pick familiar favourites from the regular menu so I did not
miss the opportunity to reacquaint my tastebuds with another taste of their
popular Baked Herbal Chicken served with white rice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeGfjrWvFiF01mrBDeqnA9mhr8WVSzH0TS4y-EyBJ9dtPmX0k6qbpv8AxZGen1KRak55-9jQwFj-VpwxduQn0HUHaHHb8Z6FTkyFZWvZE6O8lRwwO2P7TF-wO2iR8R-Ny9GA3TH2-oq9FJFofAmvTE7546vgMPNFIKPq4vMd2PccoNJ6TR4TzB6gnE/s5472/IMG_1033.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeGfjrWvFiF01mrBDeqnA9mhr8WVSzH0TS4y-EyBJ9dtPmX0k6qbpv8AxZGen1KRak55-9jQwFj-VpwxduQn0HUHaHHb8Z6FTkyFZWvZE6O8lRwwO2P7TF-wO2iR8R-Ny9GA3TH2-oq9FJFofAmvTE7546vgMPNFIKPq4vMd2PccoNJ6TR4TzB6gnE/s320/IMG_1033.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some items in the Heat & Eat range of food<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It
was good to see that Tea Garden now has a Heat & Eat range of precooked
frozen food (inside a chiller) for diners to buy back, reheat and eat at their
own convenience.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Among
the popular items in this range were the quarter portion of Herbal Chicken, Chicken
Rendang, Salt-baked Chicken, Glutinous Rice, BBQ Chicken Bun and Black Sesame
Bun, Siew Mai and Gyoza, just to name a few.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the current promotion, every purchase of Heat & Eat items worth RM39.90
will receive a Free cooler bag with a batik motif designed by a local artist.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iDggWup_I3pfMwjlrGwJDoME2v9o70R_p5uMRaCX68J4qG68dWhTl636BmXibOtZz54wDrwUS2xY-KDaRUomKdH-nwvyeSBpKlh6I2BPpMSkh_UuXDAsfsNIoZtGvNmskyhBfVWxl9UGaGL_fDSfkUHl6xeLKNiK8cMp0qGoTCerq9Gwa1TWJScb/s5466/IMG_1026.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5466" data-original-width="3640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iDggWup_I3pfMwjlrGwJDoME2v9o70R_p5uMRaCX68J4qG68dWhTl636BmXibOtZz54wDrwUS2xY-KDaRUomKdH-nwvyeSBpKlh6I2BPpMSkh_UuXDAsfsNIoZtGvNmskyhBfVWxl9UGaGL_fDSfkUHl6xeLKNiK8cMp0qGoTCerq9Gwa1TWJScb/s320/IMG_1026.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A festive gift: twin-pack jars<br />of Nasi Lemak Sambal <br />and Curry Paste<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This
promo also includes ready-to-eat, twin-pack jars of Tea Garden, Nasi Lemak
Sambal and Curry Paste (RM23.80) that comes with three pieces of RM5 vouchers (worth
RM15).</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Yes,
I liked what I ate at Tea Garden and also bought some Heat & Eat items to
savour at home, neatly carried in that cooler bag, designed with a beautiful
batik motif.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The<b> Selera Citarasa menu</b> will
be served at Halal-certified </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Tea Garden outlets* in Johor and
the Klang Valley throughout the Ramadan and Raya season 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Also
available for takeaway and order delivery with Foodpanda, Grabfood and
Shopeefood.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">*EXCEPT</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">
at KUU Kopitiam Senai International Airport, Kuu by Tea Garden at Eco Botani
and Aeon Tebrau City.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">For updated info on Tea Garden, follow
official pages on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok @teagardenmsia.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-35597984946333168162024-03-10T12:18:00.011+08:002024-03-10T13:00:10.059+08:00Farewell, CG Jeevan Singh<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
January 2024, when Consul-General of Singapore in Johor Baru, CG Jeevan Singh
and I exchanged New Year greetings, he mentioned that his time in Johor Baru
was coming to an end very soon.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhep-5qU0JStW2Tx1ftBkmpO9yz1nmT5liDpwZUHHNwtFMhRO1YD3b1brS-CRK7NPISLw2Jv2mqQEGS-iBahCRfxJGimFTlD5edM5PeBkkCkFvrSl3TIVwSg6RL0Bp7W2uqqJ1Op3em2C5oB7lbTGwsNkxYlu3qOHiZZScFQZF-nszCdRr6XGcD27vi/s4016/IMG_1937.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3004" data-original-width="4016" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhep-5qU0JStW2Tx1ftBkmpO9yz1nmT5liDpwZUHHNwtFMhRO1YD3b1brS-CRK7NPISLw2Jv2mqQEGS-iBahCRfxJGimFTlD5edM5PeBkkCkFvrSl3TIVwSg6RL0Bp7W2uqqJ1Op3em2C5oB7lbTGwsNkxYlu3qOHiZZScFQZF-nszCdRr6XGcD27vi/s320/IMG_1937.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sea of guests gathered in front of the<br />'photo booth' for a photo memento with the CGs<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This
jolted my memory and made me consider how the years have flown since we bade
<a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2019/12/farewell-my-friend-rajpal-singh.html">farewell to his predecessor, Rajpal Singh</a>, and welcomed Jeevan to Johor Baru.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Jeevan
said that a reception will be held in March to introduce his successor and did
not hesitate to tell me that he had given him all my books to read up before
coming to Johor. He even emphasized that <i>My Johor Stories</i> were
compulsory reading.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
believe Jeevan gave that instruction in jest but I still felt much honoured to
have had the privilege to get to know one CG after the previous CG, who were
based in Johor Baru in the past terms.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFknaCwukY3hhN9uXJPj531XxgcQnwUMi9Kyk_lQcPxlWBczXWcTQyfHUMQliUq-0H5I9Wy9DzJ9WInyxe9SxryAneakyjfSrTXVk88kVOY2ympY5gKBJVCEAIqpwqBwfwe_rRF1Kr7-QfTmrn6iJCKV7ah2vez7a1J-0OpOPrVqRiq3L7YTvPrRA/s995/Jan%202020.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="995" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFknaCwukY3hhN9uXJPj531XxgcQnwUMi9Kyk_lQcPxlWBczXWcTQyfHUMQliUq-0H5I9Wy9DzJ9WInyxe9SxryAneakyjfSrTXVk88kVOY2ympY5gKBJVCEAIqpwqBwfwe_rRF1Kr7-QfTmrn6iJCKV7ah2vez7a1J-0OpOPrVqRiq3L7YTvPrRA/w400-h178/Jan%202020.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One for the album: With CG Jeevan at the event to<br />speak on <i>Across the Straits: Johor's View of Singapore</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then
I received the invitation to the reception from the office of the
Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Johor Baru and I made a note
on my calendar because I was determined not to miss this event.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
2019, not long after his arrival in Johor Baru, Jeevan reminded me that our
paths had crossed in 2014 because I covered an event which he and other members
of the Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Johor Baru, took part.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99UaEtZfB8kRJjsrN2NHUH5GYMiVy7d3IErpZEwPdvIbNHla9OfXSg1GDO0dC-sf1azD_MSKEttpjfhXpdPyMp98TOM2-g1XbbZNM3MCYEzcpEz6L9GVand2dPZgTHR3YISC5A1xT8pBAjaUEAbJhjmY3SR7KaO9BUmEcV4GF2V3EQkafLsUCw6Y0/s702/Dec%202022.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="702" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99UaEtZfB8kRJjsrN2NHUH5GYMiVy7d3IErpZEwPdvIbNHla9OfXSg1GDO0dC-sf1azD_MSKEttpjfhXpdPyMp98TOM2-g1XbbZNM3MCYEzcpEz6L9GVand2dPZgTHR3YISC5A1xT8pBAjaUEAbJhjmY3SR7KaO9BUmEcV4GF2V3EQkafLsUCw6Y0/s320/Dec%202022.jpg" width="205" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With CG Jeevan and Gregory<br />Lui at my book launch event<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then
only did I recall that I published a piece on the humanitarian walk by United
Sikhs in <i>Streets Johor</i>, the Southern section of The New Straits Times
newspapers dated 10 June 2014.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Jeevan
then invited me to be part of a panel of speakers to meet a delegation of
Singapore civil servants who will be in Johor in January 2020 as part of their <i>Specialised
Understanding of Malaysia and Indonesia</i> course, organized by the Singapore
Civil Service College.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">He
explained that this study visit was a crucial component of the course that will
help the participants appreciate first-hand, the history and depth of
Singapore’s relationship with Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">So
it was in January – just before the global pandemic reached our shores – when I
was among the panel of three speakers in an informal, closed door discussion to
speak on the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2020/01/view-of-singapore-from-across-straits.html">topic, <i>Across the Straits: Johor’s View of Singapore</i></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
on March 18, 2020, the borders between Singapore and Johor were closed and in
the subsequent months, the word, <i>unprecedented</i>, suddenly became widely used.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmrMKhacnRuusSQAix2yfAzVZnLodXgmbQavsFG_E_0rA_OERy9NfeJnX46snkUpY1A2DpFzr0V7ilweq5o-Z7lqAwbx0V2YmIqNoGoxP1kUkjLPDXGNxNO4WhmXRprmN2SXG4H5NMx-N3PhTG_EWyq9PklgUGjFyGgUpyO2qzgA1gyQy_OT5DOv6/s1178/April%202023.1.jpeg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1178" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmrMKhacnRuusSQAix2yfAzVZnLodXgmbQavsFG_E_0rA_OERy9NfeJnX46snkUpY1A2DpFzr0V7ilweq5o-Z7lqAwbx0V2YmIqNoGoxP1kUkjLPDXGNxNO4WhmXRprmN2SXG4H5NMx-N3PhTG_EWyq9PklgUGjFyGgUpyO2qzgA1gyQy_OT5DOv6/s320/April%202023.1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CG Jeevan and his wife, Sima, were among the<br />participants in my Heritage Walk in April 2023<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When
the borders between the two nations were closed, I could only imagine how
challenging it was for the team at the office of Consulate-General of the
Republic of Singapore in Johor Baru who were literally, so near and yet so far
away from their families.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Two
weeks turned into two months and it was some two years later when life slowly
returned to near-normal. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
global pandemic also delayed my work on the manuscript for Book Three, the
final instalment to complete the trilogy of <i>My Johor Stories.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0MuT_60LLHpytmwZ_NE5gUmX-7x-rqsxG_s0dlnems622VSHU93RbSoMqzm5hhplV8wx_M4zbK5xY4mm5TRuS_aNnS7DK9FO93dUNF2Ry4KEE-gF926MouOl5x204XZMmVKiOg134ps3EjVX5XdkxhxzZ4kI64wKGsPI0N20JVg_JfADPKnj8f6V/s2199/20230415_120825-01.jpeg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2199" data-original-width="1830" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0MuT_60LLHpytmwZ_NE5gUmX-7x-rqsxG_s0dlnems622VSHU93RbSoMqzm5hhplV8wx_M4zbK5xY4mm5TRuS_aNnS7DK9FO93dUNF2Ry4KEE-gF926MouOl5x204XZMmVKiOg134ps3EjVX5XdkxhxzZ4kI64wKGsPI0N20JVg_JfADPKnj8f6V/s320/20230415_120825-01.jpeg" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CG Jeevan and Sima with participants <br />at Johor Baru Kwong Siew Heritage<br />Gallery to learn more about the<br />Cantonese Heritage in Johor<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I
was deeply honoured by the presence of many distinguished guests, with Jeevan
among them, on that momentous day in December 2022 when <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2022/12/book-three-completes-my-johor-stories.html"><i>My Johor Stories 3:
Proudly Johor, Then and Now</i>, was finally launched in a simple event</a>. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
in 2023, in an effort to bring life back into the city, Think City Johor Baru
provided a grant for the <i>My Johor Stories in Downtown Johor Baru</i> project
where I hosted Heritage Walks and Book Reading sessions in the first four
months of 2023.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Jeevan
encouraged his team to participate in my Heritage Walks organized in various
themes and I was pleased that two members from the office of Consulate-General
of the Republic of Singapore in Johor Baru, were among the participants in my
Walk in February 2023 that featured <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/02/downtown-johor-baru-heritage-traders.html">the <i>Heritage Traders</i> theme</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
in April 2023, I more than was thrilled when Jeevan and his wife, Sima,
registered and joined my Heritage Walk to gain further insight into Johor
culture and heritage in <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/04/downtown-jb-cantonese-heritage.html">the <i>Cantonese Heritage</i> theme</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Fast-forward
to the eve of the date for the reception, I was at a family dinner to celebrate
my niece’s birthday where I met her uncle, Gregory Lui Poh Sek, my brother’s
brother-in-law who is Chief Financial Officer with AME Elite Consortium Berhad
at Senai Airport City.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">During
our chit-chat, we shared a laugh because Greg finally discovered that the Chief
Executive Officer for Senai Airport City and Head of Group Property at MMC
Corporation Berhad, Gan Seng Keong, with whom he had a business relationship,
was in fact, my cousin.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAS1fG_-AkX-Lchh2Q4Hh83IaV_o-_Fsb4qRx9cDW4uIv882xZK6yszHTX9Nvq0cwRTdnI5d8KWa9WAS0tzevymcPd-5VaVBMJuK405BURQLeiD1l1tTwD6P4uUBpCte6ZNw2Dhyphenhyphen8ieNkq7nRqaBcTE3_9kizr1GzfviqiY1h9sBcW3yXONa8NcTV/s766/IMG_1962.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="766" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAS1fG_-AkX-Lchh2Q4Hh83IaV_o-_Fsb4qRx9cDW4uIv882xZK6yszHTX9Nvq0cwRTdnI5d8KWa9WAS0tzevymcPd-5VaVBMJuK405BURQLeiD1l1tTwD6P4uUBpCte6ZNw2Dhyphenhyphen8ieNkq7nRqaBcTE3_9kizr1GzfviqiY1h9sBcW3yXONa8NcTV/s320/IMG_1962.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A photo memento with CG Jeevan and Sima,<br />and CG Kuan Khai and Teresa, <br />Latha Pillay and Thanam V Suresh<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I
remembered that I met both, Greg and Gan at the previous reception hosted by
the office of the Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Johor Baru so
I asked Greg if he will be there for the reception to bid farewell to Jeevan
and to welcome his successor.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
guessed his reply will be, “Yes!” because I know that Greg and Jeevan were
acquainted when they were at my book launch event for <i>My Johor Stories 3:
Proudly Johor, Then and Now</i>, in December 2022.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
I arrived at the reception that evening, a large crowd of guests was gathered
in front of the ‘photo booth’ set up for the photo session with the in-coming
CG Ng Kuan Khai and out-going CG Jeevan Singh.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As
I recognized many friends among the guests, I noted that the crowd there were
made up of a veritable Who’s-Who in Johor and beyond.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg7LzKXoDcpEgn8mdRZFmRtaopy0LGzQRruucSBf6o2XKITmkS8MWrbuJpRVdTnpBQw-5OMffcikr4bcAKcBqPlaTRiTNzZf7SwZupDGajVxDf3nKhac8Xft5X0vL707EdwDeSG6TCew7CaiFkmMpWm5rRlAd9qVd6P-kX1Tvr0i0z6tkgof1IJLBQ/s3461/IMG_1955.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3022" data-original-width="3461" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg7LzKXoDcpEgn8mdRZFmRtaopy0LGzQRruucSBf6o2XKITmkS8MWrbuJpRVdTnpBQw-5OMffcikr4bcAKcBqPlaTRiTNzZf7SwZupDGajVxDf3nKhac8Xft5X0vL707EdwDeSG6TCew7CaiFkmMpWm5rRlAd9qVd6P-kX1Tvr0i0z6tkgof1IJLBQ/s320/IMG_1955.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With CG Kuan Khai and his wife, Teresa<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">While
Jeevan was preoccupied with posing for photos, I was warmly welcomed by Sima
who graciously introduced me to Teresa, Kuan Khai’s wife.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
soon became aware of the queue of guests who were waiting to capture a photo
memento with the two CGs and spotted more familiar faces including that of <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2020/09/modern-day-major-china-wong.html">Johor Mejar Cina, Dato’ David Wong Khong Soon</a>, whom I choose to address as, Uncle Dato’.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Meanwhile
the crowd was swelling by the minute and as soon as I had my group photo
snapped with the two CGs and their spouses, I made my way to the ballroom where
the event proper will be held.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Among
other familiar people in the foyer, I also met with Mr & Mrs Yap Yew Peng,
parents of the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2016/08/from-caterpillar-to-butterfly.html">savant artist, Yap Hanzhen</a>, who completed an impressive sketch
of the Johor Bahru skyline for the office of the Consulate-General of the
Republic of Singapore in Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Incidentally,
the story of Hanzhen and his gift in drawing was documented under Portraits in
my 2017 MPH Non-Fiction Bestseller, <i>My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real
People, Rich Heritage</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwG42bQ9bcTr_ScyYp72r04fPDe8HoKG-zoikznhOUSAU5RRPVK0hi8OPkq3CsJrqymtBDskm4wL_ogBub6GEzCai3op00-vsIItOgOt1Abz8k4SCOu-Ti2m4WRL2G8-zt9K2kLoI4no_LYYex3deWBZ2ffHFzDzPtOnGp_ZSzmjkBBjTN-eroMzGS/s4014/IMG_1940.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4014" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwG42bQ9bcTr_ScyYp72r04fPDe8HoKG-zoikznhOUSAU5RRPVK0hi8OPkq3CsJrqymtBDskm4wL_ogBub6GEzCai3op00-vsIItOgOt1Abz8k4SCOu-Ti2m4WRL2G8-zt9K2kLoI4no_LYYex3deWBZ2ffHFzDzPtOnGp_ZSzmjkBBjTN-eroMzGS/s320/IMG_1940.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Speech by CG Jeevan Singh<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">As
more guests trickled in, I saw Greg but because I did not see my cousin in the
crowd, I checked with him by text and Gan promptly replied saying he had to
decline the invitation because he had a prior appointment in Kuala Lumpur. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
reception continued in the ballroom with speeches, first presented by Jeevan
and then followed by Kuan Khai. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Jeevan
shared briefly about his term in Johor and expressed his appreciation to all
who helped him, his team and family, especially through the lockdown periods. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">He
ended his speech by raising a glass for a toast and invited Johor to extend to
his successor, the same support and cooperation as they did to him.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
his speech, Kuan Khai quickly established a bond with Johor by sharing that he used
to visit his grandfather who lived in Serkat, near Pontian, and went on to say a
few words on how he and his team will work together to continue the warm
relationship between Johor and Singapore.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_zztQ584py4_v1tkhxCP4g_Tjq8Pzao50ZTlyMzfL0wbI2OIAGXLylYgrbeFHwGr7B1n3PR-z0dIfX2HDWIPFbv56KEFtN6l0XQWjY7s8iUAG9kBL_G3WMIpYfrWolM08rRM9LlC101qAu2OycTtMeZ341bxHYedbSsvzC2dF7F6-kzUzFHFjTjP/s3992/IMG_1953.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2970" data-original-width="3992" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX_zztQ584py4_v1tkhxCP4g_Tjq8Pzao50ZTlyMzfL0wbI2OIAGXLylYgrbeFHwGr7B1n3PR-z0dIfX2HDWIPFbv56KEFtN6l0XQWjY7s8iUAG9kBL_G3WMIpYfrWolM08rRM9LlC101qAu2OycTtMeZ341bxHYedbSsvzC2dF7F6-kzUzFHFjTjP/s320/IMG_1953.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Speech presented by CG Kuan Khai<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Meanwhile
I took time to admire the bright backdrop design that clearly featured familiar
landmarks in Singapore on the Left and landmarks in Johor on the Right. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">And
in the Centre was an artist’s impression of a train on rails built upon raised
tracks, an illustration (my guess!) of the Rapid Transit System or RTS that
will link our borders, scheduled to be completed by end 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
guests were welcomed to enjoy a dinner buffet spread, the reception continued
with more photography sessions with both Jeevan and Kuan Khai.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
I had the opportunity for a chit-chat with Kuan Khai and his wife, I felt
ridiculously grateful when he expressed his determination to read <i>My Johor
Stories</i> to get to know Johor better. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I echo
the words on the backdrop design which read as, <i>Selamat Jalan</i> to Jeevan,
Farewell my friend, and <i>Selamat Datang</i> to Kuan Khai, Welcome to Johor!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-47100342907179805872024-03-08T12:20:00.026+08:002024-03-09T13:22:20.320+08:00Meet-up with Friends of the Museums in JB<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
late December 2023, I received a message from Susan Chong in Singapore who
said:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0E4hX5KKR3BGOBDIhSGO8lSSUYY2-GWYfPdzKxUKLjfRAxpIjRJucaW1ffM__k2D1guxu0frkcFQqlaz8F-VtGNQkW2R3Xs9EOO7MT3Ls_WE5R1bDZ5DQbiNF1ZJlHxdcefN55ALqjAUhyphenhyphen-QbzbmMkuoZ6hdCjTuN_5IB520ISNci3Y8Sdk5viLeh/s2010/PHOTO-2024-02-28-14-36-53.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1484" data-original-width="2010" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0E4hX5KKR3BGOBDIhSGO8lSSUYY2-GWYfPdzKxUKLjfRAxpIjRJucaW1ffM__k2D1guxu0frkcFQqlaz8F-VtGNQkW2R3Xs9EOO7MT3Ls_WE5R1bDZ5DQbiNF1ZJlHxdcefN55ALqjAUhyphenhyphen-QbzbmMkuoZ6hdCjTuN_5IB520ISNci3Y8Sdk5viLeh/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-28-14-36-53.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Friends of the Museum, Singapore, in<br />Johor Baru for their study tour on Johor Chingay<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Hi
Peggy, I am bringing a group of docents from Friends of the Museums to
experience Chingay festival in Johor Bahru, from February 28 to March 2. Your
books have been an inspiration to learn more of Johor history. Would you be
able to meet with my group for lunch or dinner?”</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">At
that time, February 2024 was still a while away so before I replied Susan’s
message, I did a bit of online research (www.fom.com.sg) to understand more
about the Friends of the Museum in Singapore.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I then
learnt that Friends of the Museums (FOM) was a volunteer organization for the
National Museum in Singapore. Started in 1978, it initially focused on Study
Groups and lectures to build expertise on Singapore’s and the region’s history
and culture.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQHJAp8byku2PXYy9Cbzc49TTSQSLSfBzAq3D4zANSPIkUJaVN0PR_3zLGb0Mr3p74sbEdxM6D7sI8pWzDOc_Npe4ZK4bYad53fMmh_Eue6-3uBw_AGxrLbBVZmfncqbw1uNUG0LaUeH31gOySeJfCeBHfLyvul4lm9mCsjRNNFdl2dePu10nB9Kz/s1195/9b38b135-c214-4821-9d6c-927be75cb01a.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="843" data-original-width="1195" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQHJAp8byku2PXYy9Cbzc49TTSQSLSfBzAq3D4zANSPIkUJaVN0PR_3zLGb0Mr3p74sbEdxM6D7sI8pWzDOc_Npe4ZK4bYad53fMmh_Eue6-3uBw_AGxrLbBVZmfncqbw1uNUG0LaUeH31gOySeJfCeBHfLyvul4lm9mCsjRNNFdl2dePu10nB9Kz/s320/9b38b135-c214-4821-9d6c-927be75cb01a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I shared a sumptuous lunch with the FOM group<br />on the first day of their stay in Johor Baru<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">FOM
holds Monday Morning Lectures, a lecture series open to public or members-only,
that focuses on the history, art, religion, philosophy and culture of Asia,
both held in-person or on Zoom, in the case of international speakers.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">With
eight to nine study groups that ran concurrently throughout the year, the first
docent training programme was established in 1980 and after the participants
graduated in 1981, the first docent guided tours were launched.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The FOM now provide guided tours at 10 heritage institutions including the Asian Civilisations Museum, National Museum Singapore, Gilman Barracks and Changi Chapel among others, and with the Urban Redevelopment Authority in Chinatown and Kampong Gelam. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
FOM has some 1500 members made up of 50 nationalities, with Singaporeans as the
largest nationality group who are museum guides.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmEiQXzQhpLSIfD1QaKbZ1fgLh7fnIntCAjtGhroXp6m0Xo_v5y-_tn_W8CHFqY8UxjrjKMN0UNsEBEMqTOxaC4v7uU9Iw7rxkHd_ivPKHaWpNPuWepjEmPPLd02A3Szw-AgE1kTu-kDRrW2yAWwkCzkPEH5_yOJe3jIIUP6HjyOP0vLrC84iczqJ/s2304/IMG_6311.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmEiQXzQhpLSIfD1QaKbZ1fgLh7fnIntCAjtGhroXp6m0Xo_v5y-_tn_W8CHFqY8UxjrjKMN0UNsEBEMqTOxaC4v7uU9Iw7rxkHd_ivPKHaWpNPuWepjEmPPLd02A3Szw-AgE1kTu-kDRrW2yAWwkCzkPEH5_yOJe3jIIUP6HjyOP0vLrC84iczqJ/s320/IMG_6311.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The FOM group visited destinations in<br />downtown Johor Baru<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Since
its first study tour to Melaka in 1979, the FOM had organized over 150 study
tours to overseas destinations including Northern Pakistan, Sarawak, Egypt,
Japan and Inner Mongolia.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Susan
explained that she was part of the study tour group and have brought docents to
destinations in Malaysia like Penang, Melaka, Terengganu and now to Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">At
end February 2024, Susan and her FOM group have plans for a stay experience in
Johor to witness the Chingay festival, a temple tradition unique to Johor Baru
that will mark the close of the annual Chinese New Year celebrations here.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9kWN5VR-earVaK2q-25DUs29hZmu9PmrrOsianQmsRweXtVqXOrEg7Kb4zhRetiVowH06GzgXm4LAZuNkwdiXQ3oLpIMT2WJqHfkjRTZYC2wSeVFPB-RTLEOT8bWcOFBOWUiIur0SGuXK5kd5UkECpSAz0_jOaqlO4PYIGolzSofu_NasGQ0UpGD/s2048/PHOTO-2024-02-29-16-58-49.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl9kWN5VR-earVaK2q-25DUs29hZmu9PmrrOsianQmsRweXtVqXOrEg7Kb4zhRetiVowH06GzgXm4LAZuNkwdiXQ3oLpIMT2WJqHfkjRTZYC2wSeVFPB-RTLEOT8bWcOFBOWUiIur0SGuXK5kd5UkECpSAz0_jOaqlO4PYIGolzSofu_NasGQ0UpGD/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-29-16-58-49.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The FOM group on board a visitor<br />tour truck at the Desaru Fruit Farm<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Through
my correspondence with her, I learnt about their stay itinerary in Johor so I
responded with relevant information and advice particularly for their comfort
and convenience to best experience the Chingay evening parade held in Johor
Baru on the 21<sup>st</sup> night of the first lunar month.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">[They
took my advice to stay in a downtown hotel because many roads will be closed
for this festival and it will be challenging for the group to coordinate
transport in the crush of the crowd gathered to watch this annual street
parade.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Susan
went on to say that her sister-in-law (my friend, Nali) who lives in Johor Baru,
introduced my books to her and reiterated that My Johor Stories were a great
inspiration to her personal quest into Johor history.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">So
after the 15 days of Chinese New Year festivities, I got in touch with Susan
again and she replied, confirming that she and her group were all set for their
adventure in Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvDsSqDjRScLbWwMDsSRQDORopqLjwt37nYemMaqoNdRxOjbVT9x91wm_QvsBzk1Eu0YBOFkbwOLqdP9QqWcx_u_BdMgK4BaijjX6egwUIT7tUuu1_uYHp_JaWSuLl5AmuGrKPqz56lFIumLVQELaUJU4J2ruOBNdc36TBjV2AqBVrqLmTtgazphd/s1600/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-07-23.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvDsSqDjRScLbWwMDsSRQDORopqLjwt37nYemMaqoNdRxOjbVT9x91wm_QvsBzk1Eu0YBOFkbwOLqdP9QqWcx_u_BdMgK4BaijjX6egwUIT7tUuu1_uYHp_JaWSuLl5AmuGrKPqz56lFIumLVQELaUJU4J2ruOBNdc36TBjV2AqBVrqLmTtgazphd/s320/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-07-23.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The FOM group had an <br />experience of the floating <br />village in Kukup<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">On
the morning of February 28, this FOM group travelled across the Johor Straits
by train and coach to start their stay in Johor Baru, beginning with a visit to
popular destinations in the heritage quarter and <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2015/06/explore-jbs-street-of-harmony.html">Johor’s Street of Harmony</a>.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">My
stories on heritage traders like Hiap Joo Bakery, Sin Keng Wah mattress-makers,
Mee Rebus Haji Wahid, Kerala Restaurant, Mee Ho Seng Kee and the Desaru Fruit
Farm, who are still doing the businesses started by their forefathers, are
among those documented in <i>My Johor Stories 2: Interesting Places and
Inspirational People</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Johor’s
<i>Historic Hills and Palaces</i>, <i>Old Markets and Bus Terminals</i> as well
as our Street of Harmony are among the Johor culture and heritage stories documented
in my <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2017/12/my-johor-stories-year-end-excitement.html">2017 MPH Non-Fiction Bestseller, <i>My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real
People, Rich Heritage</i></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
was pleased that this group had arranged a local tour guide with transport to
take them from the heritage quarter to see major landmarks and palaces in and
around the city before meeting me for lunch.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cTXviJibrvMA1iGgWZYladYV-kY73qhLUAdLPC6o8xaT6F8rBzMlH6OZOqQ3181uCDBDUY2vlcjZwpj-K85T9XGmrgtKcaTpZlHO0wyhfeo4G-Ub_CM3d1vbg4__aq7m-tJhyphenhyphenMUUfcPjvs5Nbt7lKzssNxXxro8GTnBlD-ouXRYKJPhIlw3ANdbb/s3119/IMG_7077.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3119" data-original-width="2169" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cTXviJibrvMA1iGgWZYladYV-kY73qhLUAdLPC6o8xaT6F8rBzMlH6OZOqQ3181uCDBDUY2vlcjZwpj-K85T9XGmrgtKcaTpZlHO0wyhfeo4G-Ub_CM3d1vbg4__aq7m-tJhyphenhyphenMUUfcPjvs5Nbt7lKzssNxXxro8GTnBlD-ouXRYKJPhIlw3ANdbb/s320/IMG_7077.JPG" width="223" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Archive photo: Wong Peng Soon<br />with the Thomas Cup trophy <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">With
so much to see and do, I expected the usual delays so I was well prepared to be
flexible with my time. True to my anticipation, I was already outside the
restaurant when I received two message updates from Susan to reschedule our
meet-up time. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
was a pleasure to meet the FOM group made up of three Singaporeans, Candice
Yeo, Azra Moiz and Mohandas Menon, Gisella Harrold from Germany, Jonathan and
Helen Garner from the United Kingdom, Shiv and Roopa Dewan from India and Susan
who is Malaysian, from Terengganu and now based in Singapore.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Shiv
Dewan invited me to sit next to him and with Candice seated on my other side, I
was warmly welcomed to join them for a sumptuous lunch.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSAcsYmkNtok3rXoZQtNsn-LQ_axyp9caIKp2MDxpZqPLqXGmy1hVmin42Lqohyh7iWDIyiHhDDUcGx0yh92C-UMndyUhRR0unFHmkzo9Rc3YmZz6wO4R82rnIDOihDrEAWbl44HkrDyDZbkCnDEbhnSwQBcuHx9acn3eFOwoQ0umP1Ypq6aGvlbm/s1020/a3c8dc47-f54c-43ce-ba39-e648f6fa1261.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1020" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSAcsYmkNtok3rXoZQtNsn-LQ_axyp9caIKp2MDxpZqPLqXGmy1hVmin42Lqohyh7iWDIyiHhDDUcGx0yh92C-UMndyUhRR0unFHmkzo9Rc3YmZz6wO4R82rnIDOihDrEAWbl44HkrDyDZbkCnDEbhnSwQBcuHx9acn3eFOwoQ0umP1Ypq6aGvlbm/s320/a3c8dc47-f54c-43ce-ba39-e648f6fa1261.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cover designs of the three books for<br />the trilogy of <i>My Johor Stories</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">While
Susan may have told them about <i>My Johor Stories</i>, it was my pleasure to
share a brief introduction about my journey to My Johor Stories that went from
newspaper columns to a series of books.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
lunch was served, conversation flowed freely and I was happy to discover that
Jonathan Garner had in fact, read <i>My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People,
Rich Heritage</i>, and was familiar with stories about my mum and dad, and
Johor’s culture and heritage. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">[My
books are dedicated to my mum and dad who shaped my thinking and outlook in
life. I had the privilege to share about it in a recent <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2024/01/my-johor-stories-featured-on-bfm-radio.html">interview broadcast by BFM Radio station,</a> a day ahead of January 31 when His Majesty the Sultan of
Johor ascended the throne as <i>Agong</i> or King of Malaysia.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3sOyOpPnvYfgBzbHKNGOvRdzAJcDyi3wwb65OLBU0xPlk4V1EOkQnZDk0A43Rmo9423B5YDm1nDYA1GYpcKDJHILevjxlTYWcZ2Vn3GAZtQzOKH6Ne7Xzg6XaBaEtwADVLH6wybviDOi7lw0TzpKPMaPXlIUkCbCP3uh-JovpQvFj9lfsvEpl9BY/s1600/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-09-22.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3sOyOpPnvYfgBzbHKNGOvRdzAJcDyi3wwb65OLBU0xPlk4V1EOkQnZDk0A43Rmo9423B5YDm1nDYA1GYpcKDJHILevjxlTYWcZ2Vn3GAZtQzOKH6Ne7Xzg6XaBaEtwADVLH6wybviDOi7lw0TzpKPMaPXlIUkCbCP3uh-JovpQvFj9lfsvEpl9BY/s320/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-09-22.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Throng of devotees along with <br />dragon dancers performances at Xin Kong<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Readers
are familiar with my family stories which they fondly dubbed, <i>Grandfather
Stories</i> because I also shared about life in Johor Baru in a bygone era,
going to school at the only Convent school in Johor Baru, and our family’s passion
for badminton.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
I talked about our grandfather, four-time Johor state badminton champion in the
1930s and who trained the Wong brothers in their early years, Mohandas was quick
to connect the dots because he was familiar with Wong Peng Soon, who earned the
prestigious reputation as one of the greatest badminton players of all time.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 89.75pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLRuEQFcxw2JOilWKoks_PdtM1aeqJNhDAdWEOrKqy5mUI9nI3xKgGIgIXqNjv3nUf3aP896BQsqLkEpAyqj-e8r3q5Y2s0Bw1QHNXwC7ek9OQvESLkb5EbR0IeteCzZjJIUpuejBr-ggRk4aU1SaNXnhHPF_CpuWY8Pip5FwAZvgbjQzEEMrd34bD/s1600/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-08-51.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLRuEQFcxw2JOilWKoks_PdtM1aeqJNhDAdWEOrKqy5mUI9nI3xKgGIgIXqNjv3nUf3aP896BQsqLkEpAyqj-e8r3q5Y2s0Bw1QHNXwC7ek9OQvESLkb5EbR0IeteCzZjJIUpuejBr-ggRk4aU1SaNXnhHPF_CpuWY8Pip5FwAZvgbjQzEEMrd34bD/s320/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-08-51.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chinese opera actor in full<br />costume, ready for the show<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Wong Peng
Soon </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">– grandmother’s cousin – </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">went on
to achieve greatness in his badminton career as a member of Malaya’s first team
who won the inaugural Thomas Cup challenge in 1949. He was also the first Asian
to win the All-England title in 1950 with subsequent victories in 1951, 1952
and 1955.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the course of conversation, I reminded the visitors that Johor and Singapore
had a unique relationship. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">n a history
long before Singapore gained independence in 1965, Singapore and Malaya were in
fact, one country that shared a special bond through geography, economy and
family links where many families have relatives and homes on both sides of the
Causeway.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It was my privilege to share briefly about <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2012/02/pulsating-parade.html">the Johor Chingay</a> which is a temple tradition of the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2010/12/ancient-temple-steeped-in-history.html">Johor Old Temple</a> that was built on
land gifted by the Johor ruler.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYlPmRMYa7Tz5-9_6144WyQ4dBr78dvHEBH6kdRvqOJCOLeHPKSfF83JFcoZV1tjJqcIF8RFf3AnUQHNe3ZMu6PFTPCfO0bH3Mkr9nBNLAaMtzfakJku2nxqUUIgXrXPyUP3-B6VGKQoQUE3f8OMcCdxNmCnHnaY7A9SjWEsKS55n9mX8A6DS9jcj/s2002/PHOTO-2024-03-01-18-42-15.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1474" data-original-width="2002" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYlPmRMYa7Tz5-9_6144WyQ4dBr78dvHEBH6kdRvqOJCOLeHPKSfF83JFcoZV1tjJqcIF8RFf3AnUQHNe3ZMu6PFTPCfO0bH3Mkr9nBNLAaMtzfakJku2nxqUUIgXrXPyUP3-B6VGKQoQUE3f8OMcCdxNmCnHnaY7A9SjWEsKS55n9mX8A6DS9jcj/s320/PHOTO-2024-03-01-18-42-15.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Susan was close to the main stage and caught<br />the JB Drums troop posing for a group shot<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It is also known as the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2015/03/jbs-unique-temple-of-unity.html">Temple of Unity</a> because this
temple uniquely houses the deities worshipped by the five main Chinese dialect
groups here, namely the Hokkien, Hakka, Hainanese, Cantonese and Teochew, all
under one roof.</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
the annual Chingay festival, the deities will be taken out of the temple and
placed in a temporary shrine known as Xin Kong, the next day, February 29.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
was also a destination for the FOM visitors to witness the excitement as
devotees thronged this area to worship and enjoy live entertainment presented
in traditional Chinese opera and music.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf-XkwT3LQpN92lC5tGwb1inFL_HhVEYN0KAYJfIu5l8gkTEj3BWpkUWF5gIDLuLMs8gBw6Mkk3WPn7YKdlzdLhu0vKRo5K9yuWqV1nz9s1Rz3HhVCIWgc5sd0LA5kuE4N9jez7YAm3pU-JyD_8_hex7lLQNolJMpWvEAOYafN5_cK7fV9RSCEDm-f/s1600/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-05-13.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf-XkwT3LQpN92lC5tGwb1inFL_HhVEYN0KAYJfIu5l8gkTEj3BWpkUWF5gIDLuLMs8gBw6Mkk3WPn7YKdlzdLhu0vKRo5K9yuWqV1nz9s1Rz3HhVCIWgc5sd0LA5kuE4N9jez7YAm3pU-JyD_8_hex7lLQNolJMpWvEAOYafN5_cK7fV9RSCEDm-f/s320/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-05-13.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of a section of Chingay parade<br />from hotel on Jalan Wong Ah Fook<br /> </td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">After
her experience at Xin Kong, Gisella shared her photos with me because she even managed
to go backstage to observe the actors while they dressed up in their elaborate
costumes to perform the traditional art of Chinese opera.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">She
also shared her observations at the Xin Kong that included prayer rituals,
dragon dancers, drummers drumming and hundreds of people armed with joss-sticks
while three of the five stages set up here presented live Chinese opera shows.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">“I
have never seen so much action in my life,” declared Gisella. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
Xin Kong was where the Chingay parade will kick off the following evening,
March 1, in an annual street parade through the city that went uninterrupted
for more than 100 years except once during the Japanese invasion in World War
Two.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidF6Vd2bomtSH08lixKEVGted37ytacgKmx8L-5IInbApR5whAjzjXDTELmS0HhCOQHLZgY74oITrXyMgpt-hVv6bePWVR3t2K7E9_bwunI8Z1bQk0k_iJzL7q7PRDljaJNgh2iWfk9w2pFf-iUOg-guyKHZGaJGlKIE937xn35zxwt_oVAE-5QMWQ/s1600/PHOTO-2024-03-04-22-33-07.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidF6Vd2bomtSH08lixKEVGted37ytacgKmx8L-5IInbApR5whAjzjXDTELmS0HhCOQHLZgY74oITrXyMgpt-hVv6bePWVR3t2K7E9_bwunI8Z1bQk0k_iJzL7q7PRDljaJNgh2iWfk9w2pFf-iUOg-guyKHZGaJGlKIE937xn35zxwt_oVAE-5QMWQ/s320/PHOTO-2024-03-04-22-33-07.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Admiring the strength and skills<br />of this acrobat who wielded a<br />giant flag pole in the parade<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">During
the pandemic years and enforced lockdowns, this temple tradition continued
under strict conditions where the deities were placed on board lorries and
taken on their annual street parade but without any spectators.<o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
year, as the world celebrates the lunar Year of the Dragon, the FOM visitors in
Johor were in for a treat because the Chingay parade will feature more dragon
dancers and floats designed with the dragon motif.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Gisella
told me that she then discovered that the Johor Chingay was not just a
religious event but an enormous parade where various organisations/brands
sponsored the decorated floats. [She also identified her favourite float that
night.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">She
had her most memorable moments when she met someone who told her where to get
the festival T-shirt and kindly explained its significance to her, a Caucasian
visitor. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhraEi7HGDBJxmdJ6gZPWRAg6Bm_jsncY7GjbXNVpI6LCDUGenxqXuIf_kn2VdYoHAb1P5a-4tSVvEOdm9VoM7yjLi_kpjOyJ9pjpBXjYdFEwfQgw5Pk628uasCpals3P0dFPtyxzEzAGKBleunyfUSCCDTvS3nA4xll8ktc8dMnefplcXo69JFJvYg/s1600/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-04-43.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhraEi7HGDBJxmdJ6gZPWRAg6Bm_jsncY7GjbXNVpI6LCDUGenxqXuIf_kn2VdYoHAb1P5a-4tSVvEOdm9VoM7yjLi_kpjOyJ9pjpBXjYdFEwfQgw5Pk628uasCpals3P0dFPtyxzEzAGKBleunyfUSCCDTvS3nA4xll8ktc8dMnefplcXo69JFJvYg/s320/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-04-43.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gisella declared that this was her<br />favourite decorated float that night<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">And
when he saw her again on Saturday, March 2, while the deities were being
returned to the Johor Old Temple, he insisted that she should join them to capture
photo and video mementoes with their group bearing the deity.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
the night parade, I reminded the FOM group to keep their eyes on the main stage
set up at the JBCC Mall on Jalan Wong Ah Fook because there will be live
cultural performances for the Johor Royal Family, this year represented by His
Majesty the Regent of Johor, Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail, and VIPs seated
there.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">After
Susan witnessed the 24 Festive Drums’ dramatic art of drumming by the JB Drums
troop, I received her text message that read, “Such a powerful performance!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I am
familiar with the drummers because I had the privilege to document the story of
the 24 Festive Drums, an art of drumming that was founded in Johor Baru, in <i>My
Johor Stories 3: Proudly Johor, Then and Now</i>, the third and final
instalment that completed the trilogy of <i>My Johor Stories</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-zYVR8CX6drYDTBkBmrlAwL4tYRYpNHomThJNRHT_rZsyOFt3rxFc4MFpIJB9hoNvOiqxOx8uCKpqoDmSED8Q1C0ieFrJDGlEOo8c086Oz9Ffy4FzoHJEg7nj5tdofMdmLUbcIqEvQiAxUHLIx0TGVq0FH5AIyjkRKqXU9ADmZ5dPwp1exYi1e6H/s1600/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-04-06.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-zYVR8CX6drYDTBkBmrlAwL4tYRYpNHomThJNRHT_rZsyOFt3rxFc4MFpIJB9hoNvOiqxOx8uCKpqoDmSED8Q1C0ieFrJDGlEOo8c086Oz9Ffy4FzoHJEg7nj5tdofMdmLUbcIqEvQiAxUHLIx0TGVq0FH5AIyjkRKqXU9ADmZ5dPwp1exYi1e6H/s320/PHOTO-2024-03-03-15-04-06.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devotees carrying a deity on<br />sedan chair on its return to the<br />Johor Old Temple at the close of<br />the Chingay festival in Johor Baru<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">While
some of the FOM group watched the parade from the comfort of their hotel (upstairs!) which
overlooked Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Susan said that she went on the street to
immerse herself into the festive atmosphere for the full experience of the
Johor Chingay.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">“I
can feel the vibe and witnessed how the people shouted <i>Daulat Tuanku</i>
with passion,” said Susan who observed the interaction between the <i>rakyat </i>and
the Regent of Johor who was seated on the main stage with his two older
children and other VIPs to watch the parade.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Susan
thoroughly enjoyed her experience of the Chingay festival right up to the final
part the next morning when she watched the deities being returned to the Johor
Old Temple where they will stay until the festival held for the next lunar new
year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
FOM group left for Singapore that afternoon, bringing with them fresh insights
into Johor culture and heritage after their brief stay to experience something
different in an exciting itinerary that explored sites in Johor Baru, Iskandar
Puteri and Desaru, with the Johor Chingay as the highlight of this study tour.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">P.S.
Following this visit by the FOM group, I am honoured to receive an invitation
to do a lecture on <i>My Johor Stories</i> at their Monday Morning Lectures
held in-person at the Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore or via Zoom. We are
considering dates now…more about this later.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Photo Credits to Susan Chong and Gisella Harrold. Thanks very much!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><b>NOTE</b>: <i>My Johor Stories </i>books are available from MPH bookstores nationwide and on line from mphonline. In Johor Baru, my books are available from JARO and YSpace.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-83662000930354875082024-03-07T15:55:00.000+08:002024-03-07T15:55:45.610+08:00Suasana Kenduri at Suasana Suites Cafe <p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
the elevator doors opened on Level 33A of the Suasana All Suites Hotel, I
stepped into the outdoor section of the Suasana Suites Café to join the preview
of their Ramadan spread and saw that this small corridor was transformed into a
food street bordered by live action stalls.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzk1MLJzwsBM7jg_kCNadVxVK9DVrvC8BdGKiMKi6jRI6bm0TQPC8D2u2cHanUgiw-WBsuWkyoCcNuiQ3pLlxT0e6S-DFb9rAcvmdjqeAivgkT598XTpFDElMqssUI0_BxaCJuyRn7XQ56wsBag-m6gSLlPlSFraHufGXl1kFbW50I34WrXWlpo9zH/s5230/IMG_1014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3240" data-original-width="5230" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzk1MLJzwsBM7jg_kCNadVxVK9DVrvC8BdGKiMKi6jRI6bm0TQPC8D2u2cHanUgiw-WBsuWkyoCcNuiQ3pLlxT0e6S-DFb9rAcvmdjqeAivgkT598XTpFDElMqssUI0_BxaCJuyRn7XQ56wsBag-m6gSLlPlSFraHufGXl1kFbW50I34WrXWlpo9zH/s320/IMG_1014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diners helping themselves to the gravies from <br />the hot buffet to eat with white rice<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Located
in the city centre, towering over Jalan Trus and Jalan Wong Ah Fook, this café
has earned a reputation as a romantic dining destination that comes with
spectacular views of the city and beyond the causeway to the neighbouring
nation.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Also
renowned for serving traditional Johor cuisine, I was pleased to see local favourites
like Sup Merah Gearbox, Kambing Bakar Kuzi, and Gulai Kawah among the main
dishes featured in the Suasana Kenduri breaking-of-fast menu.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDgOD48IDalWIwokN5z6jto54JPGlzJ0WnKTD3Fd3_TnA3UQIYgkegJK4Ci5BHX3CW5vN6Y6qrKYRGC4uXASmLx0jT00MPyq6WwFgp_gz0AZrh9TAUFEcKuXBQM9sz13rfVCQsO4xXTfUg_tGAWyS5SWicoCY67IifJe9RJtG7QsTJKDThDGV08fAO/s5162/IMG_0975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5162" data-original-width="3098" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDgOD48IDalWIwokN5z6jto54JPGlzJ0WnKTD3Fd3_TnA3UQIYgkegJK4Ci5BHX3CW5vN6Y6qrKYRGC4uXASmLx0jT00MPyq6WwFgp_gz0AZrh9TAUFEcKuXBQM9sz13rfVCQsO4xXTfUg_tGAWyS5SWicoCY67IifJe9RJtG7QsTJKDThDGV08fAO/s320/IMG_0975.JPG" width="192" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Generous portions of meat<br />in Sup Merah Gearbox<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
live action stalls also served Shawarma and Otak-otak, Mee Goreng and Laksa
Johor.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Other
live-stations offered piping hot Sup Tulang Rawan Berempah, a beef broth to
savour with bread, while diners may assemble their own portion of shaved ice
treats topped with scoops of ice-cream.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the cosy café, the buffet spread featured a range of appetizers like dried
dates, pickled fruits and choices of crisps as well as local greens or <i>ulam-ulaman</i>
for diners to choose and enjoy, topped with a choice of traditional sambal
sauces. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
bar counter was transformed into the Drinks section that served refreshing cool
drinks like Bandung and Sour Plum, or iced water from drink dispensers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvKA5J7VGp_cShxXEexkTr2R90mDtfpW7ttXSa39fpYHEhvXjznrzvweAsVmEoMMdH4ruZS_C7Gb7xeqisXlcsiFMluK3MxMpiI5nKynpMm65gkmYgCn3D2mOiFXmQIk4jDm7tlmgWnlUmsMOlKVeY8DuTKT_LZWvPxXoVImShHJPqKezo-XZy9uMS/s3824/IMG_1928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2724" data-original-width="3824" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvKA5J7VGp_cShxXEexkTr2R90mDtfpW7ttXSa39fpYHEhvXjznrzvweAsVmEoMMdH4ruZS_C7Gb7xeqisXlcsiFMluK3MxMpiI5nKynpMm65gkmYgCn3D2mOiFXmQIk4jDm7tlmgWnlUmsMOlKVeY8DuTKT_LZWvPxXoVImShHJPqKezo-XZy9uMS/s320/IMG_1928.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kambing Kuzi with <br />flavoured rice cooked within the lamb<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
desserts comprised fresh cut fruits, a variety of cakes, local kueh and sweet broth
made with black glutinous rice.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">At
the hot buffet there was a choice of gravies to eat with white rice. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Among
the dishes were Ayam Masak Bunga Kantan (chicken), Daging Salai Masak Cili Api
Berkentang (beef), Udang Goreng Lada Hitam (prawns), Ikan Tenggiri Gulai Nenas
(fish) and Kailan Goreng Ikan Masin (green vegetables).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-XphL47HtMRI6ctnozeMke9DHhMhWNGq2MUj1gGQhpccPOWx4_pA8ADe9GKueHSBb-bCyc3TWT5ja9lwXKi2VO6NxHilMIuabPRkw-3hYb89WJ_Sm-0ibHDAIs6sdVu0o0-nbXvet9JSqjcpbn0dkXzBVqEhzDMZY5AHneR1cTFsJYtg4Pd-CT46/s3908/IMG_1930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3908" data-original-width="2852" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn-XphL47HtMRI6ctnozeMke9DHhMhWNGq2MUj1gGQhpccPOWx4_pA8ADe9GKueHSBb-bCyc3TWT5ja9lwXKi2VO6NxHilMIuabPRkw-3hYb89WJ_Sm-0ibHDAIs6sdVu0o0-nbXvet9JSqjcpbn0dkXzBVqEhzDMZY5AHneR1cTFsJYtg4Pd-CT46/s320/IMG_1930.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Signature Assam Pedas<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Even
after seeing these mouthwatering items, I was still determined to seek out
their signature Assam Pedas so I ventured deeper into the café.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
I looked closer, I was delighted to discover that this popular Johor dish was
prepared in three different choices, made with squid, mussels and chicken.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">True
connoisseurs of Assam Pedas may enjoy this gravy, spicy-slightly sour from the <i>assam</i>
or tamarind, with white rice but I was pleased to see that this café provided a
choice of steamed cassava or <i>ubi kayu</i>, and oval-shaped pieces of
glutinous rice to savour with this gravy.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
have learnt from the Javanese who settled in Johor that it was typical for them
to eat steamed cassava with spicy sambal – something I enjoy too – so no prizes
for the right guess of which carb I picked to eat with my portion of Assam Pedas.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJeke3uqGq1SQ05AM8-Buky-aT8VGwj6NsjpucBa3lO56dQFsRhyphenhyphenr4oM_9tvW-H_dqBpfXvD5HhLFN1HANK6dxZ_2tggXTyUngXDDdkXolgnmcY9vUjS-SWLsJtPydLQ_oypkbOo_E8Bn7oLQHq1XkcC2DOnGaDzIpr-Wlk-7vVol68j2JnuJiz4_q/s5306/IMG_1010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3380" data-original-width="5306" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJeke3uqGq1SQ05AM8-Buky-aT8VGwj6NsjpucBa3lO56dQFsRhyphenhyphenr4oM_9tvW-H_dqBpfXvD5HhLFN1HANK6dxZ_2tggXTyUngXDDdkXolgnmcY9vUjS-SWLsJtPydLQ_oypkbOo_E8Bn7oLQHq1XkcC2DOnGaDzIpr-Wlk-7vVol68j2JnuJiz4_q/s320/IMG_1010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live station that serves Shawarma and Otak-otak<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">I am
familiar with the taste of the flavoured rice cooked within the lamb in
traditional Kambing Kuzi, so I was pleased that what the café served tasted
just right.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As
for the Laksa Johor, the all-important gravy that topped the spaghetti noodles,
was rich and tasty but I prefer the texture of spaghetti that was cooked al
dente. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
spread in the Suasana Kenduri buffet may not be wide but to me, it was
important that the items were a good variety, tasty and oh, so satisfying.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUAzUNNx6Jp2FyIVKLZ_j1civEToXb2496xDmlEIi3RxZFlBoj6CvYXcacDRX17KPjV4qbS6ACGHNbY7Tf0UqCwesnoYPu9o-AOQpiossiIB3PhRMDLJUYh3lek2PdBYAGTVUB25waV51FYfIObN6vdBvWTnBJjupEpCy9LNFOwlX3ouu5u4wWRhF/s3854/IMG_1927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2770" data-original-width="3854" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUAzUNNx6Jp2FyIVKLZ_j1civEToXb2496xDmlEIi3RxZFlBoj6CvYXcacDRX17KPjV4qbS6ACGHNbY7Tf0UqCwesnoYPu9o-AOQpiossiIB3PhRMDLJUYh3lek2PdBYAGTVUB25waV51FYfIObN6vdBvWTnBJjupEpCy9LNFOwlX3ouu5u4wWRhF/s320/IMG_1927.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laksa Johor, a Johor specialty made with<br />spaghetti instead of rice noodles<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">During
the Ramadan month, the culinary team have curated a choice of menus that will be
served on rotation for diners to savour a range of different dishes.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Suasana
Suites Café is on Level 33A of </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Suasana All Suites Hotel Johor Baru, an
all-suites hotel located at No. 82-C Jalan Trus, 80000 Johor Baru. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The<b> Suasana Kenduri buffet</b>
will be served at Suasana Suites Cafe from 7pm to 10pm from March 13 to April 8.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gCOxIUstZAp2ueNMPIaLYCcSrA7ZJVMNPnuKxyH8kbPHXYw4Y_HR4bQL6DnjaDekZJzv4w8zTqnmPQXiD6k_2HgYzoBcW_uvazOrlJXeq0SQqswX9vE9kTbol2i1vpXR4iz5DF533ZYyeAI_gppGTtzaRZYtoxF0qaiZEeoBRlTTwqPhyphenhyphenazkoPa4/s5266/IMG_1003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3310" data-original-width="5266" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gCOxIUstZAp2ueNMPIaLYCcSrA7ZJVMNPnuKxyH8kbPHXYw4Y_HR4bQL6DnjaDekZJzv4w8zTqnmPQXiD6k_2HgYzoBcW_uvazOrlJXeq0SQqswX9vE9kTbol2i1vpXR4iz5DF533ZYyeAI_gppGTtzaRZYtoxF0qaiZEeoBRlTTwqPhyphenhyphenazkoPa4/s320/IMG_1003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The taste of tradition in steamed cassava [Left]<br />and oval-shaped pieces of glutinous rice<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Enjoy <b>Early Bird Promotion</b>
rate for purchases before March 13 at RM88 nett per adult, RM68 nett for
seniors aged 60 years and above, and RM48 nett per child aged six to 12 years.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The normal rate is RM108 nett per
adult, RM88 nett for seniors aged 60 years and above and RM58 nett per child aged
six to 12 years.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Private corporate events can be
customised with a minimum of 30 persons at RM68 nett per person hosted at Amber
Hall on Level 35 of Suasana All Suites Hotel Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For reservations or takeaways, send
email to reservationssjb@umland.com.my or Tel: +607 – 267 0148 and +6011 – 2640
0688.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For more info on Suasana All
Suites Hotel Johor Baru, visit website www.suasanasuites.com.my and Facebook
page.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-68945203133435830792024-03-02T15:23:00.001+08:002024-03-02T15:23:44.474+08:00Warisan Selatan Ramadan buffet at Swatches<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As
the Ramadan month is fast approaching, Swatches in Fraser Place Puteri Harbour recently
hosted a preview of their breaking-of-fast buffet presented in the theme, <i>Warisan
Selatan</i> or Southern Heritage.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkrP2sn0Cg6Qe7_NTYxgrxtvBA2mv0YYbIhCM2wb0gvX805AyMQiv8PJ2MRfjmVEAzC8ylAz79V7aqlXDU2W5WkasF9VltgjOPOVl2ZFi5DSlzxr5ij2v3P38z3w9KoX_4F9RvPKwKjkoLYKLyhFcacuXZ-a3Q7uISA2z9D2GlPoI2q6kMYdo86PbQ/s4032/IMG_1879.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkrP2sn0Cg6Qe7_NTYxgrxtvBA2mv0YYbIhCM2wb0gvX805AyMQiv8PJ2MRfjmVEAzC8ylAz79V7aqlXDU2W5WkasF9VltgjOPOVl2ZFi5DSlzxr5ij2v3P38z3w9KoX_4F9RvPKwKjkoLYKLyhFcacuXZ-a3Q7uISA2z9D2GlPoI2q6kMYdo86PbQ/s320/IMG_1879.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guests being served <i>kawah</i> dishes at the preview<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
entrance into Swatches was decorated with wooden arches, festooned with batik
curtains, to welcome diners into the restaurant for a leisurely
breaking-of-fast meal.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
joined guests entering the restaurant who included corporate clients and media
representatives along with students from Sekolah Ladang Pendas, Gelang Patah, as
the hotel’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the restaurant, we were enveloped by live music entertainment provided by solo
keyboardist, Aziz from Kumpulan Gemersik, who entertained with lounge
favourites to dine along to.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyM0hCRaM6Itozz74xT-FqXaMuLa74fnCiQHpyBqr3_bKa_vTUmbDM_C_B31Oegbn1Y4XRQ101JazNJ_U-sBgXtg5PiwOYdIAhIZ25BG3YlDcZZF1sCcJC5FnkbaJkTXpq9FPmzch-wAstuxr9ezQyGTXXQRWHrDRlQ6DwIZTOjn9GXcehixaMGSz6/s3725/IMG_1891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3725" data-original-width="2752" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyM0hCRaM6Itozz74xT-FqXaMuLa74fnCiQHpyBqr3_bKa_vTUmbDM_C_B31Oegbn1Y4XRQ101JazNJ_U-sBgXtg5PiwOYdIAhIZ25BG3YlDcZZF1sCcJC5FnkbaJkTXpq9FPmzch-wAstuxr9ezQyGTXXQRWHrDRlQ6DwIZTOjn9GXcehixaMGSz6/s320/IMG_1891.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live music entertainment by <br />solo keyboardist, Aziz from <br />Kumpulan Gemersik<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">This
buffet spread featured authentic breaking-of-fast favourites curated in the
Southern Heritage theme with traditional dishes like Bubur Lambuk and piping hot
beef soup for diners to pick an array of ingredients to add to the brew.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the tradition of Ramadan buffets, there was a whole roasted lamb with roasted whole
chickens, ready to be carved and served to diners.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
tradition continued with the serving of popular local dishes presented in a row
of <i>kawah</i> or wok, to savour with fragrant Nasi Minyak Jagung.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Among
the exotic dishes were Belangkas (king crab) Sambal Telur, Siput Gong Gong (shellfish)
Singgang, and Kulit Lembu (cow skin) Sambal Taun.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyxjpLWucK3NmUcroTsm3GYDwNcbdD0PI5NTzlAa3oD56JdoWThfj9KkOU82uOKFMeN2-TogfCicpKcmGKKPyK11JnYV9L4_-Fo7wdQQ_dbI8UoJtz_RujWaHcRdkWsf7kG7mggx7c7R2N8B4gIO6kuR018n-zm8eMbNd52LjHUkcnqO431BkgHk_/s4032/IMG_1874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyxjpLWucK3NmUcroTsm3GYDwNcbdD0PI5NTzlAa3oD56JdoWThfj9KkOU82uOKFMeN2-TogfCicpKcmGKKPyK11JnYV9L4_-Fo7wdQQ_dbI8UoJtz_RujWaHcRdkWsf7kG7mggx7c7R2N8B4gIO6kuR018n-zm8eMbNd52LjHUkcnqO431BkgHk_/s320/IMG_1874.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Appetizing sauces served in stone mortars<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">For
starters, there were salads, both tossed salads in a variety of <i>kerabu</i>
and ingredients to assemble your own with local <i>ulam-ulam</i> and fresh greens
to enjoy with a selection of salted fish and a choice of salad dressings and spicy
dip sauces.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
an added touch of tradition, appetizing sauces like Cincalok, Budu and Sambal
Belacan, were served in traditional stone mortars.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Live-cooking
stations served various items including freshly-grilled beef and chicken satay,
freshly-made <i>apam balik</i> or pancakes filled with crushed peanuts, while a
chef was stuffing pockets of pita bread with roasted beef to serve portions of
shawarma.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2CWJv9vvZ6UCU1T0zwdeOBCXt4dPfOHeCyUIg7WsUxOdBL7IZQEVyJSbTy7YZHTiCjWXyZ6OoDgX0_dsQPbz1RUfTkYPoYNg__8aQyxREH0YtR5ZansfH8J-wRqXG314nuTlFLCABAViPxFCN5F8XEyOb7WD_gok-QbL74UZbeBD6J4ZMGXdjq_7/s4032/IMG_1863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2CWJv9vvZ6UCU1T0zwdeOBCXt4dPfOHeCyUIg7WsUxOdBL7IZQEVyJSbTy7YZHTiCjWXyZ6OoDgX0_dsQPbz1RUfTkYPoYNg__8aQyxREH0YtR5ZansfH8J-wRqXG314nuTlFLCABAViPxFCN5F8XEyOb7WD_gok-QbL74UZbeBD6J4ZMGXdjq_7/s320/IMG_1863.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carving the whole roasted lamb to serve<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">In
the hot buffet, among the dishes served were whole baked fish prepared as Ikan
Bakar Portugis, Ayam Masak Merah Kacang Pea, Siput Sedut Masak Lemak Cili Api, and
Pucuk Manis Masak Lemak Putih.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
Chinese dishes to enjoy included Braised Broccoli with Black Mushrooms and
Butter King Prawns. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Some
of the deep-fried items included mini-spring rolls, fortune bags and keropok
lekor to savour with a chilli dip sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wEqBc65D_duSClLSepVmY0wSvGQ2UYRTx-baGDQ2F5VrCwknGivoFxCetPSJVYi60rEkGIB41icqpHTxmlQPtHhv1EeI79FpGIGtBfQufqO_4gTbcOub0eGKvP05IprLYQ5jAAGkaSycYhCiXIHJc5fJOIaBiBg6L-Hvrb_aMNoSjHryPd3if8-N/s4032/IMG_1885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wEqBc65D_duSClLSepVmY0wSvGQ2UYRTx-baGDQ2F5VrCwknGivoFxCetPSJVYi60rEkGIB41icqpHTxmlQPtHhv1EeI79FpGIGtBfQufqO_4gTbcOub0eGKvP05IprLYQ5jAAGkaSycYhCiXIHJc5fJOIaBiBg6L-Hvrb_aMNoSjHryPd3if8-N/s320/IMG_1885.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel General Manager, Johnny Lau, presenting<br /><i>duit raya</i> to the students from Sekolah<br />Kebangsaan Ladang Pendas, Gelang Patah<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Diners
were also invited to help themselves to pickled fruits and individually wrapped
triangles of kueh dodol, served in tall glass jars.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
addition to refreshing cool drinks, there were hot beverages as well as traditional
desserts like Bubur Kacang Hijau and Bubur Cha Cha.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">During
the event, the hotel’s general manager, Johnny Lau, welcomed guests to the
preview event and presented <i>duit raya</i> to the students. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">“This
event is not only a celebration of Ramadan but also an opportunity for us to
express gratitude to our media and corporate partners for their unwavering
support,” said Lau.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUkPqXCqx1M4fSxJc3iG9c9HYj0WFRa0NLDmym5hdeWcK73ZE8jonbVDIbFwdBXEZq5Ne9gXioI81SmXj2URJnVx7HpM2_Lf4Tt2bLYEUQsV-QJXSFZ_HHxUzBi8lGw46QvyB3xZ_CFe4_9IwrDL1utnumUtTbAu0U1NeS2FG4dc1Kj_RQvFWBrr_/s4032/IMG_1882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUkPqXCqx1M4fSxJc3iG9c9HYj0WFRa0NLDmym5hdeWcK73ZE8jonbVDIbFwdBXEZq5Ne9gXioI81SmXj2URJnVx7HpM2_Lf4Tt2bLYEUQsV-QJXSFZ_HHxUzBi8lGw46QvyB3xZ_CFe4_9IwrDL1utnumUtTbAu0U1NeS2FG4dc1Kj_RQvFWBrr_/s320/IMG_1882.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steaming hot beef soup to enjoy<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">As
a token of appreciation, the hotel also held a Lucky Draw for an opportunity to
win prizes in the form of vouchers for hotel stays and dining at the hotel
restaurant.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Besides
pastries, puddings, cakes and cookies, there was a variety of fresh fruits and
local <i>kuih</i> to end the meal sweetly. Not only for the children but the
colourful jellies served in tall glasses, were simply irresistible.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Speaking
of irresistible, fans of the King of Fruits – the mighty durian – will be
delighted to know that from 8.30pm onwards, fresh fruits will be served from a
counter set up in the front porch. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Plastic
gloves are provided for diners to indulge in these fragrant fruits served on
small paper plates where they could sit or stand around nearby cocktail tables,
to savour these fruits to their hearts’ content. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAoZeFrqh0zl0MVrI_dk9CqCEu9FUrcLZ4WrLz6iecaofiHz-3NJ3Q-tBHMRK0sp-l3i4aWlN0Mx4TGr1E-Bws3Ah1iZvUV1IK9fY3MN0IVy9Np8Jo83-r-rN1GPPfKiaY7hMht1N9YzCRzpS47Sexrd8X6AkbqoMfwUGmpMFZqQK8bJvjNbjZZ91Z/s4032/IMG_1876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAoZeFrqh0zl0MVrI_dk9CqCEu9FUrcLZ4WrLz6iecaofiHz-3NJ3Q-tBHMRK0sp-l3i4aWlN0Mx4TGr1E-Bws3Ah1iZvUV1IK9fY3MN0IVy9Np8Jo83-r-rN1GPPfKiaY7hMht1N9YzCRzpS47Sexrd8X6AkbqoMfwUGmpMFZqQK8bJvjNbjZZ91Z/s320/IMG_1876.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet treats in local kueh and<br />jellies served in tall glasses<br /> </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The <i>Warisan Selatan</i> Ramadan buffet will be served at Swatches from
6.30pm to 10pm, <b>from March 12 to April 9, 2024</b>.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Price
at RM168+ (adult) and RM88+ (child aged six to 12 years and senior citizen aged
60 years and above).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Enjoy
<b>Early Bird</b> rate of RM148+ (adult) for purchases <b>from now till March
11</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Swatches
Restaurant is located on the lobby level of Fraser Place Puteri Harbour at
Jalan Persiaran Tanjung, Pengkalan Puteri, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
enquiries and reservations, Tel: +607 – 530 8837, +6013 – 778 6821.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-76594991661139786252024-02-29T14:48:00.000+08:002024-02-29T14:48:13.533+08:00Semarak Rasa buffet at Dine@Eight Restaurant<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">This Ramadan for the breaking-of-fast, the culinary
team at the Holiday Inn Johor Bahru City Centre presents a buffet spread dubbed,
<i>Semarak Rasa</i>, or ‘A vibrant taste’ which describes the explosion of food
flavours from various parts of Malaysia.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiAFNV5xJilvK78ltfPEBS0WMam0nECfd95WznYC5Yg7zn4zij2YlcT5tOUuKehxuRv0aZkKr4jvRsK83gzZSZ-UIuCNAfkt4C1lb_RMcAQ4H9n0KKbMqZIWOy4yBz7oJtwJ3TfFlpfRLSYt54RDSUdufQweqs6vpMa6ULkYr34boUDrYDQ0kT26n/s3736/IMG_1836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2792" data-original-width="3736" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiAFNV5xJilvK78ltfPEBS0WMam0nECfd95WznYC5Yg7zn4zij2YlcT5tOUuKehxuRv0aZkKr4jvRsK83gzZSZ-UIuCNAfkt4C1lb_RMcAQ4H9n0KKbMqZIWOy4yBz7oJtwJ3TfFlpfRLSYt54RDSUdufQweqs6vpMa6ULkYr34boUDrYDQ0kT26n/s320/IMG_1836.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creatively carved fresh fruits at <i>Semarak Rasa</i><br />buffet at Dine@Eight Restaurant<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">At the entrance of Dine@Eight Restaurant, the
eye-catching display of fresh fruits drew my attention to the rich colours and creatively
carved fruits that promise a refreshing treat to parched throats.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Also
at the entrance, a live station dubbed, <i>Pondok di Tepi Bendang</i>, was inspired
by a rice field cottage where freshly-made <i>Lempeng Kelapa</i>, <i>Lempeng
Pisang</i>, or pancakes topped with coconut or banana, and traditional <i>Kuih
Ketayap</i> or pancake rolls filled with grated coconut flavoured with palm
sugar, are served to diners.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXhXgqfk6Tfm4-Y5Sbje9oylvLDDDJ7QutpRJFpwV4Tp9UHnAz_JBXesrRfN7waflqNUfXZntWSbx2CKSswCCiYgKtJ54cYbjX59KAufp44KflUCvtWrtMUnHw5Kd-rj6TOP5iN3ewew_9MUoaiLcavQNYHEFh6SVH1AGisYjCtDqYnzZqYl_Da1JW/s3884/IMG_1835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2814" data-original-width="3884" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXhXgqfk6Tfm4-Y5Sbje9oylvLDDDJ7QutpRJFpwV4Tp9UHnAz_JBXesrRfN7waflqNUfXZntWSbx2CKSswCCiYgKtJ54cYbjX59KAufp44KflUCvtWrtMUnHw5Kd-rj6TOP5iN3ewew_9MUoaiLcavQNYHEFh6SVH1AGisYjCtDqYnzZqYl_Da1JW/s320/IMG_1835.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshly made <i>Lempeng</i> and <i>Kuih Ketayap</i> from<br />this <i>Pondok diTepi Bendang</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">In the tradition of breaking-of-fasts, a range of dried
dates were served in traditional <i>tudung saji,</i> charming covered platters,
along with trays of local kueh, cakes and pastries, all cut small for diners to
enjoy a wider variety of treats.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">An array
of desserts ranged from sweet treats like Brownies, Lemon Tarts, Eclairs, to
Middle Eastern delights like Rice Pudding, Kunafa and Baklava. There was also a
Kids Corner with a variety of fun treats to dip into the Chocolate Fountain.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The
preview of the Semarak Rasa buffet spread kicked off with a welcome address by Hotel
General Manager, Emelyn Rosales, who said,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="IT" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4psdJDe5i5mCMqQEG1_p_nugJrVtwGxUs1dUZXvXyKmHHU7MP_NcUHUVI8B5q5nqFiKyMff2BIdieryPPt1laeGlzDqww4oWHuJEWAKlqQMCLQmNiDDqugd5debmaqBcEqSHKXUNE1PjkbPjJpJyR3ihST9Iw_Lsfr91bec2PUNFmR5wEOnUGPxef/s3954/IMG_1848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3954" data-original-width="2916" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4psdJDe5i5mCMqQEG1_p_nugJrVtwGxUs1dUZXvXyKmHHU7MP_NcUHUVI8B5q5nqFiKyMff2BIdieryPPt1laeGlzDqww4oWHuJEWAKlqQMCLQmNiDDqugd5debmaqBcEqSHKXUNE1PjkbPjJpJyR3ihST9Iw_Lsfr91bec2PUNFmR5wEOnUGPxef/s320/IMG_1848.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef Khairil [2nd from Left] <br />introducing his team of chefs<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">“I am thrilled to present the Semarak Rasa Buffet, a
culinary masterpiece curated to transcend cultural boundaries and offer a
symphony of flavours that cater to both local and International palates. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="IT" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: IT; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="IT" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: IT; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Our diverse array of dishes, from the iconic Nasi Kandar
Penang to the tantalizing Middle Eastern delights, reflect our commitment to
delivering a gastronomic journey that resonates with every guest, and we aim to
not only satisfy the appetite but also create lasting memories of togetherness
and celebration.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">This
was followed by the proud introduction of the</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"> hotel’s culinary team led by Executive Chef,
Chef Khairil Anwar, with Sous Chef Zulkiflee, Chef Aidil and Chef Kudin, who
will prepare over 200 dishes in this buffet spread for an unforgettable dining
experience served this Ramadan from March 13 to April 8.</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pKOQ3Q-a6c126vQ3gwKGzO_6lq-daCJi-QddAT90YEm2M0Y7-nWXsrGAqwg-aN6bbOHIR8YO5-M93zUIzfc4AM5fC15hU0T2PT_xlJ7YrtEhj-aCmiLIBBefltr9aTGJ8KnwTiptbsx1TLFNWhyAR-4rFuWTULt6f-1CUSyxx0_VMadi0NZQRrIn/s4032/IMG_1850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pKOQ3Q-a6c126vQ3gwKGzO_6lq-daCJi-QddAT90YEm2M0Y7-nWXsrGAqwg-aN6bbOHIR8YO5-M93zUIzfc4AM5fC15hU0T2PT_xlJ7YrtEhj-aCmiLIBBefltr9aTGJ8KnwTiptbsx1TLFNWhyAR-4rFuWTULt6f-1CUSyxx0_VMadi0NZQRrIn/s320/IMG_1850.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live action at <i>Warung Bakar Nyonya</i><br />for freshly grilled seafood<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
aroma of freshly-grilled seafood from the <i>Warung Bakar Nyonya</i>, a
Nyonya-themed grilled seafood station, was like a magnet that drew diners close
to help themselves to grilled items like <i>Ikan Pari, Ikan Cencaru Sumbat,
Sotong</i>, and more.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Nearby,
Chef Adil’s <i>Warung Mee Mat Salleh</i> presents innovative twists on pasta
dishes that range from Salted Egg Carbonara to Creamy Tom Yum Pasta, in an
artful blend of diverse culinary traditions.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Thirst-quenchers
are served street-style in a variety of flavours that range from the refreshing
taste of <i>Air Katira</i>, a tangy kick of <i>Air Asam Boi</i> (preserved
plum) to the creamy richness of <i>Air Jagung Susu </i>(corn with Milk), <i>Mangga
Susu </i>(mango with Milk), <i>Air Bandung </i>(Rose syrup with Milk)<i>, Air
Buah Campuran </i>(mixed fruit) and<i> Air Tebu</i> (sugarcane juice). <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWBJjQw9DlZ-b11x4Je2KsNW-cgwdMK7lgx3imaftGmCMZIfqW5XW0m4BmjmOJptj-D9Q7dMcdVcuF-jnF45ZKqXp14SHSV8VtrGgMhCAGVFyqpDVS3oxbizdIWkNZZm5SBtCu_f6LWRXo2PQPRi-E6j_CqM3jVxj8BIKKl3v5lz7N_LmUma2VwpJ/s3848/IMG_1834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2762" data-original-width="3848" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWBJjQw9DlZ-b11x4Je2KsNW-cgwdMK7lgx3imaftGmCMZIfqW5XW0m4BmjmOJptj-D9Q7dMcdVcuF-jnF45ZKqXp14SHSV8VtrGgMhCAGVFyqpDVS3oxbizdIWkNZZm5SBtCu_f6LWRXo2PQPRi-E6j_CqM3jVxj8BIKKl3v5lz7N_LmUma2VwpJ/s320/IMG_1834.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshly grilled Kambing Golek [lamb], <br />Ayam Percik [chicken] and other meats at<br />the Carving Station<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Meanwhile,
the Carving Station by Chef Khairil featured <i>Kambing Golek, Ayam Percik</i>.
<i>Daging Bakar Desa,</i> complemented by a selection of condiments, Fattoush Salad, and Lamb Gravy
Sauce.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Diners
who long for the rich flavours of the Middle East can head over to the Taj
Mahal corner that features Middle Eastern delights such as Chicken Shawarma,
Tandoori Chicken and Lamb Kebab, that pair well with classic Garlic Naan.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Nasi Kandar
Penang, </span></i><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">a live station by Chef Kudin, brought
the essence of Penang's culinary heritage to Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJXTlutLCCLAi-SJpG6a6RMj468sTR2LU1mzKDIHbSM4BRUEtAZIgDS8zXzgbQU2iXDFourDJeifB6ry-Jw59EIOwSLl-jaG3mhp3tuUlSPsML3K0ZgYPENbsyZ88NB5Ojewl1Bk0pVyzPtnMDz__iuJQFyvd1Kn-vjSsKVt1w9HtAeobvXtbUDjy/s5462/IMG_0919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5462" data-original-width="3632" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJXTlutLCCLAi-SJpG6a6RMj468sTR2LU1mzKDIHbSM4BRUEtAZIgDS8zXzgbQU2iXDFourDJeifB6ry-Jw59EIOwSLl-jaG3mhp3tuUlSPsML3K0ZgYPENbsyZ88NB5Ojewl1Bk0pVyzPtnMDz__iuJQFyvd1Kn-vjSsKVt1w9HtAeobvXtbUDjy/s320/IMG_0919.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef Kudin at the Nasi Kandar<br />Penang station in the buffet<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">This station
serves steamed white rice to savour with a selection of dishes like <i>Kari
Kepala Ikan</i> (fish-head curry) <i>Daging Hitam Manis </i>(beef in sweet dark
sauce)<i>, Ayam Masak Bawang</i> (chicken in onion sauce), <i>Daging Rusuk</i> (beef
spare ribs), <i>Burung Puyuh Goreng Berempah</i> (deep fried quail) and more. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">As I
sank my teeth into the meaty ribs and tender chicken, I must commend Chef Kudin
for the bold and vibrant flavours in these delightful dishes that pairs
perfectly with white rice. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The
chicken portions are just right but I would suggest to reduce the size of the
ribs served so that diners (like me!) may save some space in the stomachs to
enjoy the wide range of specialties served in this Semarak Rasa buffet.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">This
was also because I did not want to miss the taste of their signature <i>Oxtail
Asam Pedas</i>, that also pairs well with white rice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3ECe5LEmM4yfeAH69aliOsdeXwVCLsbNmHyTF-fhTZhYokjT4tEKt04a64Xmn5r81a3ZQILBuNpwQREo9cJ_ltdxwwLhj96foOpfcOdcK6oTht8ljV-8cocWgFvCTppIFGSzTpXAdio-9bAyf8AE83p20Dnhom81rt17D7R22H5sNiulXKy5qTl5/s720/IMG_0891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3ECe5LEmM4yfeAH69aliOsdeXwVCLsbNmHyTF-fhTZhYokjT4tEKt04a64Xmn5r81a3ZQILBuNpwQREo9cJ_ltdxwwLhj96foOpfcOdcK6oTht8ljV-8cocWgFvCTppIFGSzTpXAdio-9bAyf8AE83p20Dnhom81rt17D7R22H5sNiulXKy5qTl5/s320/IMG_0891.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet treats in local kueh, cakes and pastries<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">In anticipation of Hari Raya, this buffet also
offers <i>Special Syawal</i> treats for diners to feast on traditional steamed
glutinous rice items like <i>Lemang</i>, <i>Ketupat
Nasi</i>, <i>Ketupat Palas</i> <i>Burasak, Botok-Botok</i> and paired with <i>Kuah Kacang </i>(peanut sauce), <i>Serunding
Daging</i> (beef meat floss) and <i>Serunding
Ayam</i> (chicken meat floss).</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">Other live stations prepared breaking-of-fast
favourites like <i>Roti John</i> but my eyes zeroed in on the hot griddle where
the chef was making <i>Roti Jala</i> (net bread) but with a difference. Here,
the rolls of Roti Jala were served with creamy durian fillings. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3h-yv1RkN79IDC3DHYQMW5HrIFOs_58KlmE-XXp19JAsO-Vy06F4czC43lti02DHX3I9lzrspifoaNbzjPHHvTJrvpwFSkUIYdMfip8Yi2Dx1NNcsPyWE-buyzlYrkNEoV9mL8X3LSu9CXN4NPNx1wKhzDt91-FXsYkPgLw8k3JZ-L8brSyYG-v0l/s720/IMG_0878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3h-yv1RkN79IDC3DHYQMW5HrIFOs_58KlmE-XXp19JAsO-Vy06F4czC43lti02DHX3I9lzrspifoaNbzjPHHvTJrvpwFSkUIYdMfip8Yi2Dx1NNcsPyWE-buyzlYrkNEoV9mL8X3LSu9CXN4NPNx1wKhzDt91-FXsYkPgLw8k3JZ-L8brSyYG-v0l/s320/IMG_0878.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Durian Tempura - a hot favourite from the buffet<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">When
it was time to sit back with a warm cup of freshly brewed Camomile Tea, I
indulged in the richness of more durian in <i>Serawa Durian</i> and Durian
Tempura, along with small choux pastries and a cube of cheesecake.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">The <b><i>Semarak Rasa</i> Buffet</b> will be
served at Dine@Eight Restaurant from <b>13 March to 8 April 2024</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Take
advantage of the <b>Early Bird</b> Promotion at only RM152+ for adults with a
buy 10 free 1 promotion. Available exclusively <b>from now until 12 March 2024</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Normal
prices at RM182+ for adult (buy 10 free 1), RM162+ for senior citizens (aged 60
years and above) and RM92+ for children (aged 6-12). </span><span lang="IT" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: IT; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">5 years old and below kids will
eat for free.</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="IT" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIR0j_VyF2w5UG0WvJpNeuMgRb2XVvBJOXdjN3aIddbePelsLqUh4_yLbRdvI98PC_WHeSjxA67_rCrRaGkSEqYmfwfFjE7Np1ObXnta_jKAxF8g7mAsuz52Sbse0KEfPLqW3nJOYzRAXrzuzyGrObxWUZG91VJLEGpgsMQPWBdvAhFe8D8RBNQXAY/s692/IMG_0887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="692" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIR0j_VyF2w5UG0WvJpNeuMgRb2XVvBJOXdjN3aIddbePelsLqUh4_yLbRdvI98PC_WHeSjxA67_rCrRaGkSEqYmfwfFjE7Np1ObXnta_jKAxF8g7mAsuz52Sbse0KEfPLqW3nJOYzRAXrzuzyGrObxWUZG91VJLEGpgsMQPWBdvAhFe8D8RBNQXAY/s320/IMG_0887.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional sauces to drizzle on <i>ulam</i> salads<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Get rewarded with</span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> 20%
off IHG One Rewards Dining Privileges </span><span lang="IT" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">with a limit of eight persons for every receipt. </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In-house guests enjoy a special rate of RM152+.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Explore
the Dinner Bed and Breakfast package at holidayinn.com/johorbahru for a
complete experience of staycation, Sahur Buffet and Semarak Rasa Buffet.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="IT" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: IT; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">For reservation or more information, please call 07 207
8888, email to </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="mailto:info@hijbcc.com"><span lang="IT" style="mso-ansi-language: IT; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">info@hijbcc.com</span></a></span><span lang="IT" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: IT; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">, </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">or walk into Dine@Eight Restaurant.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Dine@Eight
Restaurant is on Level Eight, the lobby level of Holiday Inn Johor Baru City
Centre, located in Johor Baru City Centre Mall, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, 80000
Johor Baru, Johor. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-7885112346531274702024-02-24T14:57:00.017+08:002024-02-24T15:16:17.381+08:00Focus on Jalan Tan Hiok Nee<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Every now and then, I may receive messages
from students and university undergraduates with enquiries about certain topics
they read from <i>My Johor Stories</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfXHsNvk4I89xGh8pboPjKM5jG-r8Pwdk6pxdvT-sUPH7AGNLQ1UOW6fP8B7rX9O_eHtHSKF3MY-pInph-gc7yM4mDmHnxYVXdErF3EKH3g4uEtzeo_PMh_RXA6TTOsuKTDSjWiC2iTMQTVzw653Rk720XoHoNsagE7I37y9WJffK1oAKCa7KSwmQ/s1993/a1f972e1-bbfc-4c59-a077-eb4026501173.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1387" data-original-width="1993" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfXHsNvk4I89xGh8pboPjKM5jG-r8Pwdk6pxdvT-sUPH7AGNLQ1UOW6fP8B7rX9O_eHtHSKF3MY-pInph-gc7yM4mDmHnxYVXdErF3EKH3g4uEtzeo_PMh_RXA6TTOsuKTDSjWiC2iTMQTVzw653Rk720XoHoNsagE7I37y9WJffK1oAKCa7KSwmQ/s320/a1f972e1-bbfc-4c59-a077-eb4026501173.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Walk with Bettina<br />[Far Right] during our Heritage Walk<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I always reply to the best of my ability or I
will direct them to relevant sources that may provide them with the information
they required.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Recently, I received a message from an
Interior Design student with Raffles University who introduced herself as
Magadia Bettina Dielle, and told me she was working on her thesis titled:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Exploration of Adaptive Reuse Application
in Heritage Buildings: <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Case Study of Shophouses at Jalan Tian Hok Nee
<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">While doing research about Jalan Tan Hiok Nee,
she stumbled upon my blog which has a collection of stories on Jalan Tan Hiok
Nee and asked to have an interview with me about this heritage street.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLStrcVVVJK7IHM9b3F16MMFjJspY4jUTzEnSNATxroPHcOBODQ8bZnVh1cjndjG723XFt26ornDwh5kZiI-ZNsPxIsYdwq6MAabsR-8pI_SCNQjt-CtMWfNPkGOe-7ZIqe6KBISXponiB9FXYLq9yqv9aCTnCSrIJjO3k533pDdwxORWaXQlkrpJ/s3952/THN%20Heritage%20Walk%20Road%20Sign.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3952" data-original-width="2916" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLStrcVVVJK7IHM9b3F16MMFjJspY4jUTzEnSNATxroPHcOBODQ8bZnVh1cjndjG723XFt26ornDwh5kZiI-ZNsPxIsYdwq6MAabsR-8pI_SCNQjt-CtMWfNPkGOe-7ZIqe6KBISXponiB9FXYLq9yqv9aCTnCSrIJjO3k533pDdwxORWaXQlkrpJ/s320/THN%20Heritage%20Walk%20Road%20Sign.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Road sign at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When
I replied with a request to tell me more about her project, Bettina’s prompt
reply said: “I am glad you responded.”</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
Bettina confirmed that she was based in Johor Baru to attend classes with Raffles
University at their campus in Medini 7, Iskandar Puteri, I remembered passing
by that precinct on my way to Sunway Big Box and the Citrine Hub.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">She
may have explored my blog and discovered some stories I shared about Jalan Tan
Hiok Nee so in reply, I shared with her a piece I wrote simply titled, <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2014/06/old-buildings-new-lives.html"><i>Old
buildings, new lives</i>,</a> published in The Iskandarian in June 2014 – some 10
years ago – to give her an idea of my thoughts about giving old buildings new
lives.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">By
now, almost all of the businesses opened in these old buildings may have
ceased, save one which is still operating as a private school in Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">[The
Iskandarian, the official newspapers of Iskandar Malaysia, had a page dedicated
to <i>My Johor Stories</i> when it then published a print version.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Bettina went on to further explain:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“Adaptive Reuse is a common practice to use
for heritage buildings, which is good as it promotes sustainability. It uses a
different function than what it was intended for but at least it is being
repurposed. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Compared to conserving a building it will be
more costly. By having this research, it will aware people of adaptive reuse
and as well as the history/evolution of the heritage buildings in Jalan Tan
Hiok Nee.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqlL-3pmFAt3GJM-Bkg6kGp7RJjsMd90-unFXNFHmYH4YWRlLKMQgIkdEZkR7q5B3FBh25IdjWr1hgreShflCrNMMNph9mSCoQ28d_TmEBWv_6JpYXoeEYdvvlv5s3w4iE5uH-T1gGnartqq_emPGZ6usySiXholhLG3Ip1PHGI3quZLycJ9lUQd5R/s4026/IMG_1789.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3016" data-original-width="4026" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqlL-3pmFAt3GJM-Bkg6kGp7RJjsMd90-unFXNFHmYH4YWRlLKMQgIkdEZkR7q5B3FBh25IdjWr1hgreShflCrNMMNph9mSCoQ28d_TmEBWv_6JpYXoeEYdvvlv5s3w4iE5uH-T1gGnartqq_emPGZ6usySiXholhLG3Ip1PHGI3quZLycJ9lUQd5R/s320/IMG_1789.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bettina [Left] recording the interview with me<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">She
was currently doing data collection and planned to have interviews with people in
Think City Johor Baru on the heritage buildings in Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, with a
lady who was in the field of heritage buildings in Melaka and with me, as I had
written about Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
was glad that she provided such relevant information to let me digest and
decide on how I may participate (or not!) and contribute to her thesis.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">She
did not hesitate to send a list of questions for me to prepare my replies and
asked if we should meet at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee for the interview or we could just
do it in a video call.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqEREwuX1uPq2nEKRv3_jdcJP26950UpCHU4dclfVbRsgxB0BhUcoDkTt7k6AfEIuANoMaZ3uhNI_BOZXn41xikKdcZt2RxEPaD1dtUSECAF-VMHFSj5rx9HIJzFPb6w-tsqzIK-UtfLWLCFqP0IS-BMIrXr2bR8TULLN3sMt0UQ0vojPEXAR-66E5/s2304/IMG_7003.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqEREwuX1uPq2nEKRv3_jdcJP26950UpCHU4dclfVbRsgxB0BhUcoDkTt7k6AfEIuANoMaZ3uhNI_BOZXn41xikKdcZt2RxEPaD1dtUSECAF-VMHFSj5rx9HIJzFPb6w-tsqzIK-UtfLWLCFqP0IS-BMIrXr2bR8TULLN3sMt0UQ0vojPEXAR-66E5/s320/IMG_7003.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Facade of the Johor Baru <br />Chinese Heritage Museum <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I
sensed her urgency to complete these interviews but at that time, I was
preparing for my Heritage Walk, arranged with a group on Sunday morning. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
occurred to me that I could ask Bettina if she was keen to join this Walk
because an experience in our city’s heritage quarter should reap some useful
knowledge and insights about Johor culture and heritage.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">From
her name, I could tell that she was not Malaysian and from her telephone
number, I saw that it was registered in Qatar. I am familiar with foreign
students here so I quickly asked if she wished to join my Heritage Walk on
Sunday.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">“Oh
yes, I read about it from your blog,” she replied and agreed to join.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
we met for the Heritage Walk that morning, Bettina clarified that she is
Filipino but was brought up in Qatar where her parents live and work.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSz-l_z9b4DwtjZy064b9maRNsFfFUSc19Hqbu9NKv7jfETHEaQe21lY-FJNW8guv6dNp2MABtp9LlncT8XExmJFI_M8gCSmldouwAidg7PDup9nIZrGfjjVF2Sto-F3HpcVh3rr97yn9i7ct1qUkBPm3b87ylJn8Ai29QmTh7I72kzABLnbrJN5Tm/s4018/IMG_1787.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3006" data-original-width="4018" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSz-l_z9b4DwtjZy064b9maRNsFfFUSc19Hqbu9NKv7jfETHEaQe21lY-FJNW8guv6dNp2MABtp9LlncT8XExmJFI_M8gCSmldouwAidg7PDup9nIZrGfjjVF2Sto-F3HpcVh3rr97yn9i7ct1qUkBPm3b87ylJn8Ai29QmTh7I72kzABLnbrJN5Tm/s320/IMG_1787.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There was much to share with Bettina<br />about Jalan Tan Hiok Nee<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">While
we enjoyed our time together in the Walk, we had yet to fix an appointment for
that interview. Soon after the Walk, I studied her list of questions to prepare
my replies and fixed an appointment to meet on a weekday after her classes.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Bettina
said that this interview will be voice recorded for her review later so when we
were comfortably seated, she set up various devices to take notes and to record
the interview.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I gave a brief introduction to <i>My Johor
Stories</i> and told Bettina that many pieces on Jalan Tan Hiok Nee and the
heritage quarter in downtown Johor Baru were first published in <i>The
Iskandarian</i>, and <i>Travel Times</i> (rebranded <i>Life & Times</i>)
and <i>Johor Buzz</i> (rebranded <i>Johor Streets</i>), pull-out sections of <i>The
New Straits Times</i> newspapers as well as online newspaper, <i>The Malaysian
Insider</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8DrfbXuPloczZ4iFEAUS9JPDs_Jg0p2h90j_0iAe5v2Q0SLo-xwIfcBwdXwHpvnFwENuMnoXyfzwue4HBO8VlyyRHmI7IWhLFo22m6i9M4y-68FdwUsR7RnTFZFGRU-BsTjz-YlKSANN0gbtjDwWoqXDpODLD1wIlm66bumDTOfxSCY9ow6r03Ok4/s4000/IMG_3095.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8DrfbXuPloczZ4iFEAUS9JPDs_Jg0p2h90j_0iAe5v2Q0SLo-xwIfcBwdXwHpvnFwENuMnoXyfzwue4HBO8VlyyRHmI7IWhLFo22m6i9M4y-68FdwUsR7RnTFZFGRU-BsTjz-YlKSANN0gbtjDwWoqXDpODLD1wIlm66bumDTOfxSCY9ow6r03Ok4/s320/IMG_3095.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carelessly parked cars in front of No Parking <br />signs in downtown Johor Baru<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In
reply to her query, “</span></span><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Why Jalan
Tan Hiok Nee?” I did a rewind back to that time when the state administrative
offices in the Sultan Ibrahim building gradually shifted to Kota Iskandar, the
new state administrative centre in Iskandar Puteri. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">This
contributed to a marked reduction of customers in city businesses. Over
the years, many businesses on Jalan Tan Hiok Nee closed or moved to the suburbs
and only a handful of traditional traders remained. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">When the Johor Baru Tiong-Hua Association vacated their premises at No.
42 Jalan Ibrahim and moved to their new building in Taman Sri Tebrau, this
property was refurbished and opened as the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2011/02/follow-trail-to-jb-chinese-heritage.html">Johor Baru Chinese Heritage Museum</a> with
its rear entrance on Jalan Tan Hiok Nee. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__VQAuB89F82RaIWnwGNeNiPkDs0KFHJ24cIXxp2uru88UFNS4NkXxAJfwnUnB93nRlY_p6IIB2tfgWaM6qi2hpMmQ0th4-s24Aeb_-c8ezedLf7VORULg8OgMV_KlJXiL0dGLyeU_xKF6hOBBC7tGjmwccXoXKHn96oIVW-0h-ZTXbFtWHXC2F7L/s2304/IMG_7283.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__VQAuB89F82RaIWnwGNeNiPkDs0KFHJ24cIXxp2uru88UFNS4NkXxAJfwnUnB93nRlY_p6IIB2tfgWaM6qi2hpMmQ0th4-s24Aeb_-c8ezedLf7VORULg8OgMV_KlJXiL0dGLyeU_xKF6hOBBC7tGjmwccXoXKHn96oIVW-0h-ZTXbFtWHXC2F7L/s320/IMG_7283.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big car parked across tiled pavement...<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">At the official opening of this Museum in 2009, the then Johor Menteri
Besar declared Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, a Heritage Walk.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Between 2009 and 2014, the Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Walk committee
worked hard to organise a series of <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2012/01/saturday-nite-culture.html">cultural events</a> for the public, on this
road on Saturday nights.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">The heritage walk was closed to vehicular traffic in the evenings to
encourage more people to come into the city to enjoy the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2012/02/wowed-by-wushu.html">street carnival activities</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Co-founder of the art of 24
Festive Drums, Tan Chai Puan, a cultural activist who was then a Heritage Walk
committee member, would brief me in advance and helped me with English
translation, so I often joined in the fun at Chinese festivals and <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2012/02/first-yingge-in-jb.html">cultural events</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZYF2k5QwZXuqlvMRUJH9-Ia4msDeZHheWa_CME3wLwWgjjfJAl3w6uo7-_wVqSFqIvfVhi545BT88JoxjQ1waIe85CneZno_wHMz1vZV2gXuK6nPKB6zos3V0fng4jDf_TzQ9eQAhVFk0VDYnRV0wXORooojjYjZqpYULbhfunvxafXgzLzTmBkv/s1008/WhatsApp%20Image%20(1).jpeg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1008" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZYF2k5QwZXuqlvMRUJH9-Ia4msDeZHheWa_CME3wLwWgjjfJAl3w6uo7-_wVqSFqIvfVhi545BT88JoxjQ1waIe85CneZno_wHMz1vZV2gXuK6nPKB6zos3V0fng4jDf_TzQ9eQAhVFk0VDYnRV0wXORooojjYjZqpYULbhfunvxafXgzLzTmBkv/s320/WhatsApp%20Image%20(1).jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">City Council tow truck towing away a car<br />parked along double Yellow lines<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I had the privilege to write
about these exciting events and published them with good photos in <i>Johor
Streets</i>, a section of The New Straits Times that (unfortunately!) ceased its
publication in 2015. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">At that time, young
entrepreneurs moved into old buildings and refurbished them for new businesses
and revitalized this area into <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2015/02/old-but-hip.html">a hip and happening heritage destination</a> which
became popular to both local and foreign visitors in search of nostalgia and a
retro charm.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">This area gradually transformed into a charming destination where
traditional businesses continue to operate among trendy cafes, coffee places,
art galleries, boutiques and specialty shops.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">The favourable currency exchange rate is another factor which keeps
foreign visitors coming here for a day trip or weekend destination, to explore,
eat and shop.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Looking back, many of the new businesses then opened in the old shops,
have already closed but after the recent pandemic years, many new and popular
brands have started their businesses here.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-Frx61p0ZMxGjWKzXKKJ8LnjVdLMvNhpbjBX3RGlH6u_Oj4cqddWadHzWcp6-r3K7qWj5b3PISX8ixQT6VSsV_lGSoBmPBR1-uIRpDwCZ0iEIytknz6gBwlmIRUwsiyZoBTyg1bmdY9BM1PzY5x6K-7ToHwofgRMpIBxJqSWgIKRWDTmc0qstDmB/s4032/IMG_1792.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-Frx61p0ZMxGjWKzXKKJ8LnjVdLMvNhpbjBX3RGlH6u_Oj4cqddWadHzWcp6-r3K7qWj5b3PISX8ixQT6VSsV_lGSoBmPBR1-uIRpDwCZ0iEIytknz6gBwlmIRUwsiyZoBTyg1bmdY9BM1PzY5x6K-7ToHwofgRMpIBxJqSWgIKRWDTmc0qstDmB/s320/IMG_1792.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was a pleasure to share my experiences<br />with Bettina to let her have a better view of<br />heritage buildings in the city<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I shared with Bettina that my earliest memory of Jalan Tan Hiok Nee
was buying bread from Hiap Joo, a traditional bakery. I remember being seated
in the backseat of dad’s VW Beetle as he drove downtown to stop in front of the
bakery.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Dad would call out his order, “<i>Ngiau kai</i>!” (Hainanese for “small
one”) and the baker would pass a loaf to us through the open car
window. Then we would drive off with the fragrance of freshly baked bread
inside our car. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">And when my sisters and I were sick, mum would take us to consult a lady
doctor, <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2013/01/our-lady-doctor.html">Dr Alice Low, who had a private practice at Low’s Clinic</a>, opened at the
block of shops close to the OCBC Bank.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">At that time, we could just drive through Jalan Tan Hiok Nee and return
home with ease because traffic flow was smooth and there were no obstructions
along the downtown network of roads.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Now drivers carelessly park along both sides of the roads, even on tiled
pavements – destroying the tiles and obstructing pedestrians – which created a
narrow path for vehicles to pass. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">This presents grave danger because in case of medical or other
emergencies like fire in the heritage quarter, it would be very difficult for
emergency vehicles to pass through and reach the affected areas. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">I have highlighted <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2013/11/city-parking-woes.html">this issue of indiscriminate parking in the media</a> but
<a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/01/so-good-to-see-mbjb-in-action.html">the effort by the City Council to remove carelessly parked vehicles</a> seems to be
temporary and in the long-term, the recalcitrant drivers seem to be getting
away with their bad behaviour.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I was also
pleased to share with Bettina about</span><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> other roads in the city that
are part of </span><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;">Old </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;">Johor </span><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;">because </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;">these roads were
named after Royalty, Malay leaders, Chinese </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">pioneers and </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">British expatriates who worked
with the Johor State Administration, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">and people who have </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">contributed significantly
to the early development of the state.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;">Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is linked to a network of roads like Jalan Dhoby,
Jalan Trus and Jalan Pahang, once a thriving metropolis where banks, lawyers,
offices and traders like coffee-shops, restaurants, provision stores, fabric
merchants, electrical suppliers, dry-cleaners, stationers, barbers,
hairdressers and other services operated. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7o5j7pnJIXlpCmeeVcY2HxkyOxUtoK9Dpdmp6yuLrRc6xc4mxTz42QmpXRi7k01l99myarJmGO8CloIlIpYUgZFwJt01qn788ULAIWy2hF_WK2eZFaUnYl4OiSw3pgbW6W_sHILxtMw7BEyn6FRNYCOgV5DXcbRBnDCKAmGGaTv2Pb1cWutztAGK/s3941/CIC%202014.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2912" data-original-width="3941" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7o5j7pnJIXlpCmeeVcY2HxkyOxUtoK9Dpdmp6yuLrRc6xc4mxTz42QmpXRi7k01l99myarJmGO8CloIlIpYUgZFwJt01qn788ULAIWy2hF_WK2eZFaUnYl4OiSw3pgbW6W_sHILxtMw7BEyn6FRNYCOgV5DXcbRBnDCKAmGGaTv2Pb1cWutztAGK/s320/CIC%202014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two churches at Jalan Gereja and Jalan Gertak<br />Merah, mark the start of Johor's Street of Harmony<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I explained
that Jalan Trus was linked to </span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Jalan Ngee Heng and the adjacent road was </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Jalan Gereja or Church Road, so named because two
churches marked the top of the road we fondly call, </span><i style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2015/06/explore-jbs-street-of-harmony.html">Johor Baru’s Street of Harmony</a></i><span style="font-size: 12pt;">.</span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This was because the places of worship of the early
community here were situated literally on the same road, built on land gifted
by the Johor Ruler.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;">Bettina has a copy of </span><i style="text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">My Johor Stories
3: Proudly </span></i><i style="text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Johor, Then and Now</span></i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;">, the third </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;">and final </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;">instalment that completed the
trilogy of <i>My Johor </i></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -36pt;"><i>Stories</i>, so I encouraged </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">her to </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">read more </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 0cm 0cm 36pt; text-indent: -36pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">info about roads in Johor
Baru documented in, </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">A </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">Rich Heritage in Road Names</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -36pt;">.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHAGp1IPJlfdnOA5IxxMrk87SNeJ8jtQFZiQv7Q6RLFNU22nZeEOQKPZI2mAibFII5S0dkodWhNMmtlR-Jivh6OvbsAUjzejjd_mArBMX_ss_iE1ERNW35VqppFsRGdgyGINt9Q7EgtYZ7FXcv_bFweJ-K1Boc2R0Hyw68y_1Tk5jgR3GuM7oG0D7H/s2877/Peggy%20001.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2204" data-original-width="2877" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHAGp1IPJlfdnOA5IxxMrk87SNeJ8jtQFZiQv7Q6RLFNU22nZeEOQKPZI2mAibFII5S0dkodWhNMmtlR-Jivh6OvbsAUjzejjd_mArBMX_ss_iE1ERNW35VqppFsRGdgyGINt9Q7EgtYZ7FXcv_bFweJ-K1Boc2R0Hyw68y_1Tk5jgR3GuM7oG0D7H/s320/Peggy%20001.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Road sign for Jalan Ngee Heng<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">While
she was pleased with the progress in her project, Bettina told me about her
attempts at reaching the bakers at Hiap Joo Bakery for an interview – not about
their products or business – but about their building, its age, structure,
components, materials and floor plans, any modifications and other details on
its interior spaces.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Hiap Joo, traditional bakers,</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> was among the Heritage Traders featured in <i>My
Johor Stories 2: Interesting Places and Inspirational People</i>, so I helped
to connect Bettina with my baker friend, James Lim Toh Shian. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">By
now, James was familiar with being interviewed about their family’s business
but because Bettina’s queries were specifically about the heritage building
that housed this ancient bakery, I shared her questions for him to prepare his
replies.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsso5-btndr93hVK44wzHXkavtJhEuwLVqVEdp_aJuP3Qb21ChoHRE106E6Sw3YCG8pcK5dvgSuPFFty9ywygYdJTioUnpHq4dsUDDgj8kqTOciTfh3gljJm0Vxu_PGDqRSKnB4NlxqJk-M7hARc796xpyFGV6BAEfiXADmSCB8zoTwU77J52sKvK/s2222/IMG_6337.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1402" data-original-width="2222" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsso5-btndr93hVK44wzHXkavtJhEuwLVqVEdp_aJuP3Qb21ChoHRE106E6Sw3YCG8pcK5dvgSuPFFty9ywygYdJTioUnpHq4dsUDDgj8kqTOciTfh3gljJm0Vxu_PGDqRSKnB4NlxqJk-M7hARc796xpyFGV6BAEfiXADmSCB8zoTwU77J52sKvK/s320/IMG_6337.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Row of shops adjacent to Broadway cinema<br />refurbished by Think City Johor Baru<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I
encouraged Bettina to get in touch with James for an appointment and she
assured me that she will bring her course mate, who could speak Mandarin, to
help with language translation.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
morning, I was delighted to receive a message from Bettina who said, “I just
had my meeting with Mr James.” And went on to say, “Yes, I got my answers about
the building.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
understand that she will also meet with the people at Think City Johor Baru so
I reminded her to ask them about their project with No. 52 Jalan Tan Hiok Nee
as well as the refurbishment of that row of shops adjacent to the old Broadway
cinema. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Best
wishes Bettina, for every success in your Bachelor of Interior Design degree
with Raffles University, and for your internship placement next year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Raffles
University Medini Campus is located at G-05, Medini 7, Jalan Medini Sentral 5,
Bandar Medini Iskandar Malaysia, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-82458315142869239052024-02-23T13:55:00.010+08:002024-02-23T14:06:39.775+08:00Impiana Senai shares Chinese New Year goodwill<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
2017, I had the privilege to witness <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2017/10/impiana-hotel-opens-in-senai.html">the grand opening of Impiana Hotel Senai</a>
as the first business-class hotel in this area and was back for various events
including <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2018/05/celebrating-johor-at-impiana-senai.html">a stay review</a> of the facilities and festive food reviews.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2cq9eFoxDnmhkwoQ7UvXVFeOiSYmjfjIUelk16iIqMufwxP2WNhN4NF_DHoGtYVa3vJZ2SXSmlRHzuU0Z180iqzLkcolMq6T3en_3p-dB_8WVxFaMR0kmJxDCYSVu2kjmB-Lyl1vHu8grIXAZz_lY7JyZ7YkFWF1qUtpsmb1vnC9tdITKRTN8ZFe/s714/IMG_0848.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="472" data-original-width="714" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2cq9eFoxDnmhkwoQ7UvXVFeOiSYmjfjIUelk16iIqMufwxP2WNhN4NF_DHoGtYVa3vJZ2SXSmlRHzuU0Z180iqzLkcolMq6T3en_3p-dB_8WVxFaMR0kmJxDCYSVu2kjmB-Lyl1vHu8grIXAZz_lY7JyZ7YkFWF1qUtpsmb1vnC9tdITKRTN8ZFe/s320/IMG_0848.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group shot with guests at Chinese New Year<br />celebration 2024, Impiana Hotel Senai<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2018/01/my-book-with-friends-at-impiana-senai.html">Hotel
team members who are familiar with <i>My Johor Stories</i> </a>made my stay very
welcome and as I was then working on <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2018/12/giving-thanks-with-grateful-heart.html">my book sequel<i>, My Johor Stories 2:
Interesting Places and Inspirational People</i></a>, I was pleased to include a
story on Senai along with stories from other districts in Johor, published in December 2018.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Since <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2018/03/first-lunar-new-year-at-impiana-senai.html">the hotel’s first Chinese New Year in 2018</a>, their festive celebrations have
always been shared with the local community, especially with underprivileged
organisations established in and around Senai and Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBpbZorBgwHPwjKIjvSsZDKG0dydtZl4kKvT8gV0X9FAO-Al9Sffl6usds1fuw57YYe4dHOBUCeM2ly2hn1aTTr3KPYJ4toj2M4AnCnZBe1VLd1OA04ryxgkNodpszvJCfKkM_C7KkHcNMLNVY7g8P7JIJ8rSeAljeWzz-WPSvYoF9Zr_bVJLtZKI/s4012/IMG_1774.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4012" data-original-width="2998" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBpbZorBgwHPwjKIjvSsZDKG0dydtZl4kKvT8gV0X9FAO-Al9Sffl6usds1fuw57YYe4dHOBUCeM2ly2hn1aTTr3KPYJ4toj2M4AnCnZBe1VLd1OA04ryxgkNodpszvJCfKkM_C7KkHcNMLNVY7g8P7JIJ8rSeAljeWzz-WPSvYoF9Zr_bVJLtZKI/s320/IMG_1774.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lion dancers in the hotel lobby<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Looking
back, I can safely conclude that this hotel has a heart for the local community
particularly after these recent years when people faced hardship and economic
uncertainties due to the global pandemic.
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
year, under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Impiana
Hotel Senai and the property owners,</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> KCC Hotel (Senai) Sdn Bhd,
continued its commitment to giving back to the community by inviting five Johor-based
welfare homes and hosted them to a memorable and meaningful experience at the
hotel. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Some 22 guests from the welfare
homes were from Persatuan Penjagaan Kanak-Kanak Terencat Akal Johor Bahru, Yu
Shan JB Disabled Welfare Centre, Pusat Jagaan Warga Istimewa Kempas, Pertubuhan
Kebajikan Cheng En Johor Bahru, and Persatuan Kebajikan Vision Kulai.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIK0hnYg2uaPKx863JBPRGUEl_Ka258L-b4ci2VU0Ry0ZeuIaA8zjqtm588Eyr25sGFBamS4RaG2UMNO_t_ulOiwlKsiXiZKRe-0Uxnt46hlfBIwRwU1TJaCipXho3yOXYtSxi60XSpWKKIE-rSfshUYQCS4LDDRPQ6SuXzy_lPySzTjRCzOTDxGp/s710/IMG_0795.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="710" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIK0hnYg2uaPKx863JBPRGUEl_Ka258L-b4ci2VU0Ry0ZeuIaA8zjqtm588Eyr25sGFBamS4RaG2UMNO_t_ulOiwlKsiXiZKRe-0Uxnt46hlfBIwRwU1TJaCipXho3yOXYtSxi60XSpWKKIE-rSfshUYQCS4LDDRPQ6SuXzy_lPySzTjRCzOTDxGp/s320/IMG_0795.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Young guests accompanying<br />lion dancers to The Tiffin<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In the spirit of Chinese New
Year, the mood was upbeat as the event kicked off with the lighting of
explosive firecrackers at the hotel entrance. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">This was followed by the sound of
thunderous drums and clashing cymbals for a pair of lion dancers who skillfully
reached up to the top of the main entrance to retrieve a bunch of fresh lettuce
and scattered its leaves to symbolically shower everyone with good fortune.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The pair of lion dancers
continued their skillful dance into the hotel lobby to give traditional greetings
to hotel General Manager, Mazli Bin Abd Malik, before the lions danced their
way around The Tiffin, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant and then proceeded
upstairs – by elevators – to dance up good fortune wherever they went.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayUHbPDznFoODHKhFnF7TbhSjy4u3Tt5U7wm3CT7EiRoYW0womX6uqXx9ei5DjBV6StzBpAQ903lD_O1c4JAZFm9BdEPe_HUWQUamGjO7CkiX1YmlCePOm8TZA-bXWGlNyZIzkZkC72iRJxdloARByjVeSj3U8qEc7ZfjC6qT_M4kQv5kGg-ebtwH/s718/IMG_0808.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="718" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayUHbPDznFoODHKhFnF7TbhSjy4u3Tt5U7wm3CT7EiRoYW0womX6uqXx9ei5DjBV6StzBpAQ903lD_O1c4JAZFm9BdEPe_HUWQUamGjO7CkiX1YmlCePOm8TZA-bXWGlNyZIzkZkC72iRJxdloARByjVeSj3U8qEc7ZfjC6qT_M4kQv5kGg-ebtwH/s320/IMG_0808.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Young guests helping themselves from the buffet<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Meanwhile the hotel’s culinary
team had prepared a special buffet luncheon in The Tiffin for everyone to enjoy
the festive mood over good food. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The hotel acknowledged that these
homes play a crucial role in nurturing the less privileged in our community, and
to support their effort in providing enriching and comfortable lives to the
needy, the sum of RM2,000 was presented to each of these homes.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHWPeIK6zthOMTUKyda2CeqcsHaiCP5Lu-zxBUq8Dnaz14Xyc60I4ZsgMpfZOaN1nmfXPhTn2POtZsh2t1xUf5mtbUsfom0Ts5QMrErcv0UZrDQifvdOD9K6u3tbRY0EeLIkwn-as64ESTCT1UtZ9NGH_diKZreotr5lxZ28RftTD6G4rF7RfylZm/s688/IMG_0850.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="688" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHWPeIK6zthOMTUKyda2CeqcsHaiCP5Lu-zxBUq8Dnaz14Xyc60I4ZsgMpfZOaN1nmfXPhTn2POtZsh2t1xUf5mtbUsfom0Ts5QMrErcv0UZrDQifvdOD9K6u3tbRY0EeLIkwn-as64ESTCT1UtZ9NGH_diKZreotr5lxZ28RftTD6G4rF7RfylZm/s320/IMG_0850.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying themselves with the colouring activity<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">GM Mazli then presented individual
cheques that were received by representatives of these welfare homes.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The hotel’s gesture in sharing
Chinese New Year goodwill reminded us that the essence of Chinese New Year lies
not only in extravagant celebrations but also in reflecting on the blessings
received and the importance of generosity to the needy.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">“Let us continue with the spirit
of giving and compassion, not just during Chinese New Year but throughout the
year,” said GM Mazli.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSLj8bXNVKtPEiSOpfbjYTLaAjEf5NySozxYDmw2xbAe_pmT7mOKujp0DBQFI-mo3-nLXOJYhBrydkASG21M86yQABvrDWefSN0xvdtlz8pd2P76YrNIVrWaYBWiJP8HlAGarABf9qVHQUA-xPjac1sHahazByAMjqWI5aHCYux0OV0vPjIsS7u4-/s720/IMG_0855.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSLj8bXNVKtPEiSOpfbjYTLaAjEf5NySozxYDmw2xbAe_pmT7mOKujp0DBQFI-mo3-nLXOJYhBrydkASG21M86yQABvrDWefSN0xvdtlz8pd2P76YrNIVrWaYBWiJP8HlAGarABf9qVHQUA-xPjac1sHahazByAMjqWI5aHCYux0OV0vPjIsS7u4-/s320/IMG_0855.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creatively colouring a drawing<br />of a dancing lion<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Let us strive together, to build
a brighter, more inclusive future for all,” he added.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">After enjoying a leisurely lunch
at The Tiffin, the guests were invited out to the hotel lobby to capture a group
photo memento of the event.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In addition to monetary gifts, the
hotel also organised a series of engaging activities, including a colouring
session for the children, aimed at encouraging creativity and for the
youngsters to have some fun. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Finally, each child was given a
box of coloured pencils – which they could take home – to creatively colour a
picture outline of a traditional lion dancer.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Impiana Hotel Senai is located at
Jalan Impian Senai Utama 2, Taman Impian Senai, 81400 Senai, Johor. For more
info, visit website: impianasenai.com<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-87538500362705267222024-02-22T13:33:00.020+08:002024-02-22T13:57:30.084+08:00My Johor Stories Heritage Walk, last Sunday<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">“An
awesome Sunday morning spent with Peggy Loh, author of <i>My Johor Stories</i>
at a Heritage Walk around downtown Johor Baru, our old city center.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cpTAY-0R_JhKtq81ETpRT-SP72sxp5KCQ0fWO7JkYjoVhx5xcSvoB6sbVfbBBouARopa4kZ8gwN4BlBHgB5197Umcjo347WXEWJW1fiS0aOHy2WOXCvWKB04S8gBFSAT5KIw5sBiTLYCx04tpR7CP5i1ApIJ6WsXe6NXSkW57if2d8jwBibICskS/s2458/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-28.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1637" data-original-width="2458" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6cpTAY-0R_JhKtq81ETpRT-SP72sxp5KCQ0fWO7JkYjoVhx5xcSvoB6sbVfbBBouARopa4kZ8gwN4BlBHgB5197Umcjo347WXEWJW1fiS0aOHy2WOXCvWKB04S8gBFSAT5KIw5sBiTLYCx04tpR7CP5i1ApIJ6WsXe6NXSkW57if2d8jwBibICskS/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-28.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All set for the start of Heritage Walk<br />with My Johor Stories in February 2024<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Despite
having lived in Johor Baru for 37 years, this was my first experience to really
immerse myself into Johor’s culture and heritage.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Peggy
brought the history of Johor Baru alive with her passionate and excellent
commentaries and storytelling.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Many
“firsts” for me today in discovering:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">One:
Johor’s early industry of a steam sawmill from which Jalan Sawmill got its
name!!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Two:
The historical Soo Peng Hang Press located just a stone’s throw away from my
office in Johor Baru City Square.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpokcHyC5Nojm3HG8FeVQGD_7JQ7y86CFhlIvJnHL6jeLIXZm0TOBv-VqQocAso69pbE301-7e0f1vh_acan83lBHv6rB_5v6nFc-3_c8ICBKiago-F_Y_y8PjEyaiNcl8_ZV0_l5blfJmLICue7KjeQ1dcfr4uBlrNih_RhOEglSXvaqWwmtbeYdD/s1078/PHOTO-2024-02-19-07-00-30.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1078" data-original-width="658" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpokcHyC5Nojm3HG8FeVQGD_7JQ7y86CFhlIvJnHL6jeLIXZm0TOBv-VqQocAso69pbE301-7e0f1vh_acan83lBHv6rB_5v6nFc-3_c8ICBKiago-F_Y_y8PjEyaiNcl8_ZV0_l5blfJmLICue7KjeQ1dcfr4uBlrNih_RhOEglSXvaqWwmtbeYdD/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-19-07-00-30.jpg" width="195" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking along the promenade<br />next to Sungai Segget<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Three:
Johor Baru’s renowned Foon Yew School was established in 1913 on the site where
Galleria Kotaraya stands today.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Four:
Visited the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2024/02/a-vintage-photo-studio.html">Johore Heng Photo Studio</a> which was well patronized by Johor Baru
folks in the yesteryears for any form of photographs, from family portraits,
graduation, weddings etc. Sadly, this old photo studio will be shutting its
doors come April.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Five:
Visited the enriching Johor Baru Chinese Heritage Museum, the Museum of the 24
Festive Drums and the Indian Heritage Centre.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Looking
forward to join the energetic and enthusiastic Peggy again for another Walk
soon to discover more aspects of Johor culture and heritage.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">But
before that, to finish reading her trilogy of <i>My Johor Stories</i>, to
better understand the history behind each landmark!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7HiHSzml6t7OJGEmsOAGq1lnNVr9T3yWgdkiVHQHT9mo3mpevdm-CABsNEZyasF9lbwJ0Za9_-vG08v2gejt9sN9XFqMU2EigYXCDXEHc8R_w2nKGE6sHcfG068mR76x5SbcbG6K8rpDQHveQB_K1Grh-OcHmgGvFy3GRqi14R0WWEfXNsFcCo9wy/s2424/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-33.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1724" data-original-width="2424" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7HiHSzml6t7OJGEmsOAGq1lnNVr9T3yWgdkiVHQHT9mo3mpevdm-CABsNEZyasF9lbwJ0Za9_-vG08v2gejt9sN9XFqMU2EigYXCDXEHc8R_w2nKGE6sHcfG068mR76x5SbcbG6K8rpDQHveQB_K1Grh-OcHmgGvFy3GRqi14R0WWEfXNsFcCo9wy/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-33.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the lobby of the Johor Baru <br />Chinese Heritage Museum<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
above was quoted verbatim from a Facebook post by Maggie Ng, one of the
participants in my Heritage Walk on Feb 18, who clearly had a very positive
experience with me.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Flashback
to January 16 when I had the pleasure to attend a preview of the Chinese New
Year menu served at Hop Sing, the Chinese restaurant at Ponderosa Golf and
Country Club.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Since
I was writing food and hotel reviews for the <i>Travel Times</i>, a pull-out section
of The New Straits Times newspaper, I regularly participated in food previews
here.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">My
relationship with <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2018/03/my-book-at-ponderosa-golf-country-club.html">Ponderosa Golf and Country Club</a> took a step closer in 2018
when the resort graciously placed copies of my 2017 MPH Non-Fiction Bestseller,
<i>My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People, Rich Heritage</i>, in their hotel
rooms for the guests’ reading pleasure.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1jupYuecZblJC4LFQ20uvKTTa5tVIVy6jqjQoOr304o75hcVKqdTbckw-R90izPGZBGXrxyrwkCkL8NJG6OQsJtyiln6P_6I-mIdXiFz6r7_4C3GMLtwABvjOkFIb0jmVMZI1MYa6_2iOK7knoDcP6Uiz4Qc7RBfyxU81mheOs1QRj2PUV_WC7SD/s720/IMG_0675.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1jupYuecZblJC4LFQ20uvKTTa5tVIVy6jqjQoOr304o75hcVKqdTbckw-R90izPGZBGXrxyrwkCkL8NJG6OQsJtyiln6P_6I-mIdXiFz6r7_4C3GMLtwABvjOkFIb0jmVMZI1MYa6_2iOK7knoDcP6Uiz4Qc7RBfyxU81mheOs1QRj2PUV_WC7SD/s320/IMG_0675.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the Johore Heng Photo Studio<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This
recent pre-Chinese New Year banquet was hosted with corporate guests and after
the traditional Yee Sang prosperity toss, the lunch menu proceeded course by
course. As I was enjoying the meal, Maggie came over to my table to say, “Hello.”
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">And
when she asked me what I was up to recently, I told her about my Heritage Walks
last December and in January, that happened upon request. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
explained that my Heritage Walks and Book Reading sessions kicked off in 2023
under the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/04/downtown-johor-baru-acknowledgements.html"><i>My Johor Stories in Downtown Johor Baru</i> project</a>, an initiative
under the Downtown Johor Baru Grants Programme: Arts, Heritage and Culture, a
collaboration between Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) and Think
City, supported by Majlis Bandaraya Johor Baru (MBJB).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9WauR8YladeyklgQDPst5EFfDoMwXyzKT6_T-Ws89bxp-Us_jASoQ88SgiNBHkQvsAIW329VpEkOI8gQpsx4qs7W0c7wNWURQL-WPJiR5R2fx1RUoZJQhx2hIqhsgdd-d2B-VFKmTwdNzLssyDiODsw1Ts-Xkr0Ct3iarXQqIgNQGtdwzMD-VSBde/s712/IMG_0715.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="712" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9WauR8YladeyklgQDPst5EFfDoMwXyzKT6_T-Ws89bxp-Us_jASoQ88SgiNBHkQvsAIW329VpEkOI8gQpsx4qs7W0c7wNWURQL-WPJiR5R2fx1RUoZJQhx2hIqhsgdd-d2B-VFKmTwdNzLssyDiODsw1Ts-Xkr0Ct3iarXQqIgNQGtdwzMD-VSBde/s320/IMG_0715.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Elwin Law [Standing Centre] in the<br />Museum of the 24 Festive Drums<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Focusing
on the heritage core of Johor Baru, the grants programme aimed to support
community-based initiatives to reactivate Downtown Johor Baru. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Under
this project, my Heritage Walks were held once a month from January to April
2023, each designed according to a specific theme based on My Johor Stories
with the Walks personally conducted by me.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As
Maggie listened, her interest was piqued and without hesitation, she booked six
slots for the next walk in February!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCe3yh1hMTiRQqJsYFw2W-_HawlfU42DMDN0EKADoLBg1N6r0Kk6WhbLJ5MhS9uV2hOMt3LH3C35PN1cN7F9ULOxcp7KblLRNhaUW-7O5f-97w6S23-Xb-uHMBA_0iH79d9UQJF2r3rYaSItRn9bvqhaf04bLasgYbtfIILcTN5w8QYhvcANAFPgyv/s2560/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-35.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2427" data-original-width="2560" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCe3yh1hMTiRQqJsYFw2W-_HawlfU42DMDN0EKADoLBg1N6r0Kk6WhbLJ5MhS9uV2hOMt3LH3C35PN1cN7F9ULOxcp7KblLRNhaUW-7O5f-97w6S23-Xb-uHMBA_0iH79d9UQJF2r3rYaSItRn9bvqhaf04bLasgYbtfIILcTN5w8QYhvcANAFPgyv/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-35.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elwin Law, a drum instructor with JB Drums,<br />explaining the rationale for the logo of<br />the Museum of the 24 Festive Drums<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
group who joined my Walk with Maggie included Irene Tan, Goh Mey Foon, Michele
Tan, Cheah Bong Hou and his wife, Swee Lian.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Meanwhile,
Lai Hon Kit, better known as Kit, who joined<a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/04/downtown-jb-cantonese-heritage.html"> my final Walk in the original series of Walks in 2023</a>, enjoyed it so much that she regretted that she failed
to participate in the earlier Walks and Book Reading sessions under the
Downtown Johor Baru project.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Later
that year, when Kit and I met again at an event, she recounted her Walk
experience with me and looked forward to join my next Walk. She so keen to join
that she even offered to be a “helper” and not just a participant.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
I told Kit about the Walk planned for Feb 18, she signed up to join along with
her friend, Evelyn. She also asked, “BTW what do I need to do as a “helper?” It’s
my first attempt and am pretty excited.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU0zzIkn79lMbrJh380yh0RqLeyZN9MuW12BiMImO5ot2mFdbmSLpDZvXyLszl8W3H4tdOc-Igv6Uh0Fg_QyXRYPT4YdkoRMiYZvsYC0MI4IfEl4RlU6Ss8yMwP1_6tkvfB8fmdJqbunP19wwv2itTWG4Spna5H2os9Y7DZ74_JFDHNYU9IR5aNnf/s2560/63702204-5de9-4eba-a06f-c60408ec3871.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1146" data-original-width="2560" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyU0zzIkn79lMbrJh380yh0RqLeyZN9MuW12BiMImO5ot2mFdbmSLpDZvXyLszl8W3H4tdOc-Igv6Uh0Fg_QyXRYPT4YdkoRMiYZvsYC0MI4IfEl4RlU6Ss8yMwP1_6tkvfB8fmdJqbunP19wwv2itTWG4Spna5H2os9Y7DZ74_JFDHNYU9IR5aNnf/w400-h179/63702204-5de9-4eba-a06f-c60408ec3871.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One for the album, with the Sultan Ibrahim building<br />as a majestic backdrop<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I
gave her the job brief and on the day of the Walk, Kit did her part to help me
with managing the group on the Walk and also helped to capture some good
photographs.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">After
the Walk, she said: “Thanks for the great day and experience in exploring JB
town,” and continued, “Shall share the pics in a short while.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As
I read their messages and looked at the photos, I thought that sharing the
encouraging comments and feedback from the participants was the best way to
showcase how everyone felt about their Walk experience with me.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJEacSNEAM4fdLpnBnGp8gsLpqWfv8_lm315tHvMpyESdvA3zwLrCsNtVKEU4TBY9g8blxWj7mBcxPJouklusdWSLUxNdbA50d1sO-hD7VtwPgShmLOVwqfCLhF2fbtglAn-kLflAelP2Mn5u6hXoL4xxrRHEfbOl1yCDlN1vw0JAmJOZcEVxQk_A/s4032/IMG_1733.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJEacSNEAM4fdLpnBnGp8gsLpqWfv8_lm315tHvMpyESdvA3zwLrCsNtVKEU4TBY9g8blxWj7mBcxPJouklusdWSLUxNdbA50d1sO-hD7VtwPgShmLOVwqfCLhF2fbtglAn-kLflAelP2Mn5u6hXoL4xxrRHEfbOl1yCDlN1vw0JAmJOZcEVxQk_A/s320/IMG_1733.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Yeoh, the mattress-maker at<br />Sin Keng Wah Kedai Tilam<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Goh
Mey Foon said: “Thank you for organizing such an informative and interesting
Heritage Walk, with many facts unknown to me, even though I was born and raised
in Johor Baru.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Didn’t
realise about the arches until you mentioned them – I can be so blind at times.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
was not aware of the existence of the Museum of the 24 Festive Drums and the
Indian Heritage Centre.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Overall,
it was a fun day with recalled memories. Your explanation was short and sweet,
with enough information for us to explore further if we wanted. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">After
this Walk, I have more stories to tell my friends about JB. Well done and thank
you.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitLY-F6XvcyogYhS72areM86BhXp9yZzlDb2y9QhwbtfRuXyYIL8i8yvzsx1B4fJgZbduGncvu-zwf49KAEoM81hl1IWMfMC8JwtWwqNbuFcuNOFcrtEE_27WXJC7BDRbK4obUgKYH2FazUQ55zytpCXFtiPsvoMOTQufvogMyEeisR6aBsTMVq3ag/s2560/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-37%20(1).jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="2014" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitLY-F6XvcyogYhS72areM86BhXp9yZzlDb2y9QhwbtfRuXyYIL8i8yvzsx1B4fJgZbduGncvu-zwf49KAEoM81hl1IWMfMC8JwtWwqNbuFcuNOFcrtEE_27WXJC7BDRbK4obUgKYH2FazUQ55zytpCXFtiPsvoMOTQufvogMyEeisR6aBsTMVq3ag/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-37%20(1).jpg" width="252" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An ancient arch along Jalan Trus,<br />gets a facelift with modern art<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When
we walked along the promenade on Jalan Wong Ah Fook that bordered the Segget
River, we paused to look at the façade of the shop that used to house the Soo Peng
Hang Press, one of the early printers who operated using moveable type printing.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
shared briefly about the Soo family’s proud legacy in the print industry because
I had the privilege to work with them on the English version of a book project
on the Soo Peng Hang Press.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
our group was in the Johor Baru Chinese Heritage Museum, there was a copy of
this book on the coffee table for visitors to turn its pages and get an idea of
the work and skills involved to run a business in moveable type printing. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the Johor Baru Chinese Heritage Museum, we saw a collection of artefacts and read
the information to understand the basis of the strong relationship between the
Johor royal family and the Chinese community here.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8LiT5Wo4-Gvb1LJ1_-wsej12WcSrTB2VyqexHqAKrucDiY1_wdnXtYojC9dg3FikOtmi14d-LBKQGyiPlsJGAG1upapxx4ApPF8tRPyADZyxKSZF8riLNl1E4kskn9WJBRCzcZnw8umStvq97gILfNMjs_5QhmeNfg5YRoWSr33X9-osFpT84tRT/s4032/IMG_1738.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8LiT5Wo4-Gvb1LJ1_-wsej12WcSrTB2VyqexHqAKrucDiY1_wdnXtYojC9dg3FikOtmi14d-LBKQGyiPlsJGAG1upapxx4ApPF8tRPyADZyxKSZF8riLNl1E4kskn9WJBRCzcZnw8umStvq97gILfNMjs_5QhmeNfg5YRoWSr33X9-osFpT84tRT/s320/IMG_1738.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our group had the privilege of a live show<br />by the JB Drums at Galleria Kotaraya<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Proof
of this strong relationship continued at the Johor Old Temple which bears the
name of the State, “Johor” in honour of the Johor Ruler who gifted the land to
the Chinese to build the temple. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
his wisdom, the Johor Ruler united the five main Chinese dialect groups, with a
common place of worship where the five deities revered by the five dialects,
are uniquely housed under one roof in this temple. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">One
of the participants, Karen Aw, told me that she was deeply moved to learn about
how the Johor Ruler united the Chinese dialect groups with this “Temple of
Unity.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADPUijU2N5tM_a-LoyOZkZ-Mii7ryyZEhHEHwnDJqexztKcL9Rh1O9SlgmayTNq4FIRDUMeT18x6k8GiWagO3Jd9ZqEpHnjq-icUzXcqLtb33m4D0V_GcspjvcfH-l-CWOYX1HUUUVUIaXsbK0NnFT2W1wv5cw6-vEPFVajVYicCOcgspDp5EJqlA/s720/IMG_0725.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADPUijU2N5tM_a-LoyOZkZ-Mii7ryyZEhHEHwnDJqexztKcL9Rh1O9SlgmayTNq4FIRDUMeT18x6k8GiWagO3Jd9ZqEpHnjq-icUzXcqLtb33m4D0V_GcspjvcfH-l-CWOYX1HUUUVUIaXsbK0NnFT2W1wv5cw6-vEPFVajVYicCOcgspDp5EJqlA/s320/IMG_0725.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our group with the JB Drums drummers<br />outside Galleria Kotaraya<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Karen</span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> marveled at his wisdom</span><span style="color: #19080c; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"> when I said that the Johor Ruler respected the Chinese tradition of
ancestor worship, where he not only presented land for their temple but also
for their cemetery or burial ground</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-MY; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Karen
brought our mutual friend, Leila Nordgren from Finland, to join my Walk because
Leila was familiar with <i>My Johor Stories</i> and wanted to know more about
Johor Baru, where she now lives during the winter months in her homeland.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
Leila was President of the Johor Baru chapter of the International Women’s
Association (IWA), I had the pleasure to work with her for many events including
<a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2012/10/johor-malay-culture.html">exploring Malay culture and heritage with the <i>Yayasan Warisan Johor</i></a> or
Johor Heritage Foundation and covering reports on the charity bazaars hosted by
the IWA.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAb5lxlBfNbciY7m1oh7nrqzwnAP6OoB39ZKMFLo-wKIdV2LblmEBeeWlwvqDgQpft3QjaFzEY0kgBQ7LZKNJd2CH5G-Cgad5GollyIOh8RzTXSRVXMDnwz05kiRtmxwx4DOyQKOo7-Cq_QiTfbR5jmO-NlPZ8PcckbPTZBys-WUoWOQ8gvKNsiM_/s4032/IMG_1744.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAb5lxlBfNbciY7m1oh7nrqzwnAP6OoB39ZKMFLo-wKIdV2LblmEBeeWlwvqDgQpft3QjaFzEY0kgBQ7LZKNJd2CH5G-Cgad5GollyIOh8RzTXSRVXMDnwz05kiRtmxwx4DOyQKOo7-Cq_QiTfbR5jmO-NlPZ8PcckbPTZBys-WUoWOQ8gvKNsiM_/s320/IMG_1744.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joss-sticks burning in urn at<br />forecourt of Johor Old Temple<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">
also had the privilege to be <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2017/09/a-morning-with-peggy-loh-and-iwa-jb.html">guest speaker at the IWA meeting</a> to present to
them, my 2017 MPH Non-Fiction Bestseller, <i>My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real
People, Rich Heritage</i>, and at the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2020/03/celebrating-womens-day-with-iwa.html">IWA Women’s Day celebration in 2020</a>, I had
the pleasure to speak on the subject, <i>Building Bridges with My Johor Stories</i>.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Leila
and the IWA ladies have visited some downtown destinations but it was clearly a
different experience with me. As we walked along, Leila asked me about my latest
book projects and I was pleased to share with her about my recent experience in
helping the Tan family produce a book as a meaningly tribute to their father.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
was pleased to include the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2020/01/museum-of-24-festive-drums-is-open.html">Museum of the 24 Festive Drums</a> into the Walk itinerary
to remind the group that this art of drumming was proudly born in Johor Baru,
then spread across the nation and have even exported abroad.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bT-Rqt2Cpeth_ye1n_wJChOeJQC-ROYEiwBeuNxHvekdfcwKcfHVFEVmgeeZInGbmJXpxzsttHHn-u8-AthnzJKmdEva9JLRZz3gT13eRzQDzSY4t5INz6BjMYcisBh-4Atwdo8d9GYEwcXRHsFFTQ8FKWYXOLIQO2PoM0NYeaNsugz47R9qbBfB/s545/IMG_0742.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6bT-Rqt2Cpeth_ye1n_wJChOeJQC-ROYEiwBeuNxHvekdfcwKcfHVFEVmgeeZInGbmJXpxzsttHHn-u8-AthnzJKmdEva9JLRZz3gT13eRzQDzSY4t5INz6BjMYcisBh-4Atwdo8d9GYEwcXRHsFFTQ8FKWYXOLIQO2PoM0NYeaNsugz47R9qbBfB/s320/IMG_0742.JPG" width="254" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fun pose in the Indian Heritage<br />Centre with Maggie and Irene<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Last
year, I had the pleasure of partnering with JB Drums to set up a pop-up store
at the lobby of the Permaisuri Zarith Sofia Opera House during <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/06/building-bonds-through-drum-up-jb.html">the series of “Drum Up JB” shows</a> for fans of the 24 Festive Drums to buy <i>My Johor Stories</i>
books that also featured the story of the 24 Festive Drums as well as its co-founder,
Tan Chai Puan.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Last
year, the JB Drums troop proudly presented a performance at the main stage
during the Johor Chingay parade, witnessed by His Majesty the Johor Sultan and
other VIPs.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
Chinese New Year festive season, I was aware that the JB Drums troop had a
schedule of engagements to perform at various venues including shopping malls
in and around the city. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">That
morning, when our group left Sin Keng Wah <i>Kedai Tilam</i> (mattress-makers) and
was walking along Jalan Trus towards the Johor Old Temple, we heard drum beats
which sounded like the Chinese drum for lion dances, common during this season
to usher in good fortune.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As
I listened, I recognised the rhythm of the familiar drum beats as that of the
24 Festive Drums and was delighted to see a crowd gathered in the outdoor
section of Galleria Kotaraya to enjoy the performance of a small drum troop.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Not
only did I recognize the drum beats but also my friends, the JB Drum drummers,
who gave an engaging performance to thrill and delight our group with such a
bonus of a live show, soon after our visit to the Museum of the 24 Festive
Drums! Yay!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">[I
told the group that this was definitely unplanned and NOT part of our itinerary
but so perfectly timed and clearly a gift to them during this festive season.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOKkY6ra9iJ0U23WP73wOgQ3lzouCtd6gjpjRPGRDI1UucAoO7gPy05scDZLzho11Jacyo9buvzlGKsGv0vUJIKjyePT-uSdBcyLnx4l2vfiOgnWlukr_pXfoSevquss-6MvtNIf8Jv0OS5Cy2-m4fkdgomjwR33b-QdqgWoaAx9PbxqaGLmPFIW7i/s843/IMG_1764.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="843" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOKkY6ra9iJ0U23WP73wOgQ3lzouCtd6gjpjRPGRDI1UucAoO7gPy05scDZLzho11Jacyo9buvzlGKsGv0vUJIKjyePT-uSdBcyLnx4l2vfiOgnWlukr_pXfoSevquss-6MvtNIf8Jv0OS5Cy2-m4fkdgomjwR33b-QdqgWoaAx9PbxqaGLmPFIW7i/s320/IMG_1764.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kongxi! Kongxi! to everyone from all of us!<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Incidentally,
the last participant to join this Walk was Magadia Bettina Dielle from The
Philippines, an under-graduate with Raffles University at Iskandar Puteri.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">A
few days ago, Bettina reached out to me because she needed to complete her
thesis on, <i>The Exploration of Adaptive Reuse Application in Heritage
Buildings: Case Study of Shophouses at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee</i>, and wanted some
useful input from my experience in the heritage quarter of Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">After
we discussed arrangements for an interview, it occurred to me that Bettina
should join this Heritage Walk for a first-hand experience with me. She was
keen to join and there she was, bright and early at our meeting point that
morning. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXfw5cMFnrTWzbIB7Ke6cdEdTKleE64SDt8JW7B0jDmRzncibNqiZmGDXWPE9uM8Ajopiu83WXtizbI2MIC-76MByWuAoEHdBy1kHuYYAk0TIf2K3LkJZRIfc5xFZpJ17OOYVQ834bGnhqxXWhk1fxuoFNoYAOe2AL6dFEdN01b_ycUBu2tkuWHYBv/s2560/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-37.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2338" data-original-width="2560" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXfw5cMFnrTWzbIB7Ke6cdEdTKleE64SDt8JW7B0jDmRzncibNqiZmGDXWPE9uM8Ajopiu83WXtizbI2MIC-76MByWuAoEHdBy1kHuYYAk0TIf2K3LkJZRIfc5xFZpJ17OOYVQ834bGnhqxXWhk1fxuoFNoYAOe2AL6dFEdN01b_ycUBu2tkuWHYBv/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-19-06-57-37.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our group with Elton Ho [Standing Right] in<br />Mee Ho Seng Kee, Johor Baru City Square<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Our
Walk that day ended at <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2020/01/experience-new-look-mee-ho-seng-kee.html">Mee Ho Seng Kee</a>, located on Level Six of Johor Baru City
Square, where I introduced the group to Elton Ho, the third-generation operator
who brought their family’s business literally from a pushcart to a cool café. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Seated
in air-conditioned comfort, participants had the opportunity to ask questions
and to share their thoughts, comments and feedback on their Walk experience. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the course of our chit-chat, I was pleased to learn that participants wanted to
have the complete trilogy of <i>My Johor Stories</i>, autographed for their own
and to present as gifts.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Note:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> <i>My
Johor Stories</i> books are available from MPH bookstores nationwide and online
from mphonline. In Johor Baru, my books are available from JARO and YSpace. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Photo
Credits: Maggie Ng, Irene Tan, Cheah BH, Kit and Florence Liew<o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-52198325220169918972024-02-20T11:24:00.000+08:002024-02-20T11:24:04.399+08:00Nostalgia Rasa Renaissance Iftar at Cafe BLD<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
moment I stepped into the lobby of the Renaissance Johor Baru, I was enveloped
by traditional festive music presented by a live band with vocalists from <i>Yayasan
Warisan Johor</i> or the Johor Heritage Foundation.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAY14jTgSc5p16F-QOJ2G1RDMfUgIQA1Y_btZMEHpSZLpaMkLJtYHYtDbr9qb2qtzx0lAhOOXKEq7c2QqvlmEaKlBaN2C_K8WKHkl0T-PAuH_QzamFwsOoc8pqytE-l_5SVK0qR1bx4Peq9P2pJ5MRQsvf71t0GucNLHm5VSidQ4JCHDnL3jOMVpDA/s720/IMG_0612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAY14jTgSc5p16F-QOJ2G1RDMfUgIQA1Y_btZMEHpSZLpaMkLJtYHYtDbr9qb2qtzx0lAhOOXKEq7c2QqvlmEaKlBaN2C_K8WKHkl0T-PAuH_QzamFwsOoc8pqytE-l_5SVK0qR1bx4Peq9P2pJ5MRQsvf71t0GucNLHm5VSidQ4JCHDnL3jOMVpDA/s320/IMG_0612.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indian cuisine is part of the Nostalgia Rasa<br />Renaissance Iftar buffet at the outdoor terrace<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">I
am familiar with the flavours of the Ramadan spread at Café BLD and was pleased
to see the sumptuous spread in the preview of this year’s traditional breaking-of-fast
treat in the theme, <i>Nostalgia Rasa Renaissance Iftar</i>.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
impressive spread invite diners to break their fast with a wide array of
mouth-watering dishes and delicacies served specially from March 12 to April 10.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
spied much activity happening at the outdoor terrace and did not hesitate to
head outdoors to see the teams, busy at the live-cooking stations set up to
serve freshly made items in this buffet spread.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4GSyxLq3LsKGRi519PsGtXvado-2I9RFM2oq4AUEvazd4AJBl592teu356NEfOetyaQnVA055IrYj5k6JzSNxxdxeXstFRp1a4a9Y8LCqmtm8VBfaZqBgk-uN2W22Fuqvbe64UMEuZk_0RL6Os67nEIWWIR0m-9jYqx06jYNi-4toyqiz4qGwxFUM/s718/IMG_0578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="718" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4GSyxLq3LsKGRi519PsGtXvado-2I9RFM2oq4AUEvazd4AJBl592teu356NEfOetyaQnVA055IrYj5k6JzSNxxdxeXstFRp1a4a9Y8LCqmtm8VBfaZqBgk-uN2W22Fuqvbe64UMEuZk_0RL6Os67nEIWWIR0m-9jYqx06jYNi-4toyqiz4qGwxFUM/s320/IMG_0578.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live station that serves Shawarma<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Chefs
for Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisine were at their work stations to prepare
favourite items like deep-fried <i>dim sum</i>, popular at Wan Li, their
Chinese restaurant as well as deep-fried snacks and irresistible desserts like durian
rolls wrapped in crispy batter.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Next
to the whole roasted lamb where diners will be served slivers of carved tender
meat to savour with a drizzle of sauces of their choice, a chef was busy
preparing portions of Shawarma.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjmuA_mB_OGkdGMngv3vgtVkkxXxCrPLyBVYO98USJ8M_L6yQfnmk4AOgYhASSd6vAbLLboW6f61CNqTHn6Ib8lHaorrNnFTj50UCr8QarGUa0y0WsEb9f26XlUerw2Irw2vu3hWBhoqhTcCza3rvgABnWBzMXb7gA3tI4HZDxyPyjl2LMapjxpDg/s692/IMG_0594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAjmuA_mB_OGkdGMngv3vgtVkkxXxCrPLyBVYO98USJ8M_L6yQfnmk4AOgYhASSd6vAbLLboW6f61CNqTHn6Ib8lHaorrNnFTj50UCr8QarGUa0y0WsEb9f26XlUerw2Irw2vu3hWBhoqhTcCza3rvgABnWBzMXb7gA3tI4HZDxyPyjl2LMapjxpDg/s320/IMG_0594.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Durian rolls wrapped in<br />crispy batter<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Another
team were fanning burning embers to barbecue skewers of the signature BLD Beef
and Chicken satay for diners to savour with spicy peanut sauce and condiments
of raw cucumber and onions.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Another
eye-catching choice must be the Giant Freshwater Prawns prepared in the traditional
South Indian deep-fried “65” recipe. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
spread of traditional dishes continues in a range of signature <i>Gulai Kawah</i>
items presented in warming <i>kawah</i> or giant wok, that will be served on a
rotation basis for Monday, Wednesday and Friday alternating with Tuesday,
Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
are fresh ingredients to make salads topped with a variety of sauces and a
range of ready-to-eat local salads or <i>kerabu</i> created with various
ingredients like squid, beef lung, mixed seafood, barbecued chicken, mango as
well as local greens, <i>ulam-ulam</i> fern leaves.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6G2wBDQavDtdX1pm_JqtMNINk-NrB3SKKdQdEgMS1X7IXcm_ZHYmSVxXv_0PT1UTTVjDu2dI5nuWB7YP8bCnWsEnZsIPOelY23kYEMbKn_hzCeNrByCQiz-bBK7wtUoCGFrc9NtunEGTVG6RyTjlAep2j1XZ-bPav3OSQmX7v2ZWx-6rdOZ-NJ-ez/s708/IMG_0544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="462" data-original-width="708" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6G2wBDQavDtdX1pm_JqtMNINk-NrB3SKKdQdEgMS1X7IXcm_ZHYmSVxXv_0PT1UTTVjDu2dI5nuWB7YP8bCnWsEnZsIPOelY23kYEMbKn_hzCeNrByCQiz-bBK7wtUoCGFrc9NtunEGTVG6RyTjlAep2j1XZ-bPav3OSQmX7v2ZWx-6rdOZ-NJ-ez/s320/IMG_0544.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dedicated to fans of Hummus<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Diners
at this Ramadan buffet will enjoy the various Do-It-Yourself or DIY sections to
assemble their own Pasembor (Monday & Friday), Indonesian Gado-Gado (Tuesday
& Saturday), Nyonya Fruit Rojak on (Wednesday & Sunday) or Nyonya Pai
Tee (Thursday).<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
was even a corner dedicated to serving Mediterranean Hummus for diners to enjoy
a range of hummus including Pumpkin Hummus, Roasted Beetroot Hummus, Roasted
Red Pepper Hummus, Tex-Mex Hummus and Classic Garlic Hummus with cucumber and carrot
sticks, broccoli and cauliflower florets, among a range of items.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UOEqIpOQ2ejVMgFPQXcNns5VTZfS2GehptNcsTGy-xYXeTey1dM4lMayopiWs8JXf-5brn9anBXcH5ECT5LEvc7pQml5OlBa4WIq2eXQ5TTjQDIehx0PksqfiH3uUGDZzBVQ3GFTo-34g6Po8G9I3MNchTtNh_GXN9MbLpYmVYy6ZLg8naWIwPc8/s3866/IMG_1720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3866" data-original-width="2788" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UOEqIpOQ2ejVMgFPQXcNns5VTZfS2GehptNcsTGy-xYXeTey1dM4lMayopiWs8JXf-5brn9anBXcH5ECT5LEvc7pQml5OlBa4WIq2eXQ5TTjQDIehx0PksqfiH3uUGDZzBVQ3GFTo-34g6Po8G9I3MNchTtNh_GXN9MbLpYmVYy6ZLg8naWIwPc8/s320/IMG_1720.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This meal comes with live<br />music entertainment<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
traditional breaking-of-fast meal will not be complete without a taste of juicy
dates along with comforting <i>Sup Ayam Berempah</i>, a spiced chicken soup,
and <i>Bubur Lambuk</i>, traditional rice porridge, from the Soup Station.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
the Chicken Soup will be a regular item on the menu, diners can expect dishes
like Mee Jawa (Monday & Friday), Mee Rebus (Tuesday & Saturday), Laksa
Johor (Wednesday & Sunday) and Mee Bakso (Thursday).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Fans
of comforting hot soup can look forward to traditional spiced beef soup, <i>Aneka
Sup Campur Berempah</i>, which diners may top with items like beef tripe, beef
lung, ox tail or lamb bone marrow, fondly known as Gear Box.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Festive
favourites like <i>Lemang</i>, glutinous rice with coconut milk baked within
bamboo sticks, and <i>Ketupat Palas</i>, glutinous rice cakes steamed in
coconut leaves, are kept warm within a Chinese bamboo steamer, and served with
a choice of <i>Serunding </i>or tasty meat floss made from beef, chicken and
fish.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCRQP4yP9CH3T0Ky1IyUWcZW6pgMHBM_RaYZAVGn4R_WUw_I7OVooLi5Rxx-vEgk0IVAGL0PMTWCiGKJKCc6AD5U1LMPoJPeXWMyAnmPG9uzF4a5sKAZ7ZWSBx4vbKz7Rtni2whg6HkkTzKO_MammdAHDsKRYKGwoM3fKIkxu81KKR_Zr2jWXSMvUl/s686/IMG_0604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="686" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCRQP4yP9CH3T0Ky1IyUWcZW6pgMHBM_RaYZAVGn4R_WUw_I7OVooLi5Rxx-vEgk0IVAGL0PMTWCiGKJKCc6AD5U1LMPoJPeXWMyAnmPG9uzF4a5sKAZ7ZWSBx4vbKz7Rtni2whg6HkkTzKO_MammdAHDsKRYKGwoM3fKIkxu81KKR_Zr2jWXSMvUl/s320/IMG_0604.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend, Norfy, helping herself to fried <br />carrot cake, a popular item at Wan Li<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Meanwhile,
the Seafood-on-Ice, a popular BLD staple, offers fresh-water prawns, premium mussels,
flower crabs, <i>lala </i>shellfish and Hokkaido scallops, for fans of seafood to
enjoy these cold items with a twist of fresh lime and a range of dip sauces.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">At
the Dessert section, a live station serves freshly-made <i>Kueh Ketayap</i> and
the BLD signature <i>Serawa Durian, </i>cubes of<i> </i>steamed glutinous rice topped
with durian sauce<i>.</i><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMmbibd-21g6MTUzhZm6yT55dAooFt-nFugaeF9Ia_dt4G5DQ8k6M0T6jsVpH7vWlyWxB7FJXrU8Xsm13b3gF4VVaor2n_QHmDNDvWfVjWV5XWDMf1dH312hDyBQ_R9ylyNjbtHoqe-IDHU9ozWMqREQe6E81-Qxmxic95zH5VMmnJJTr85wiK8Lv/s4032/IMG_1717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMmbibd-21g6MTUzhZm6yT55dAooFt-nFugaeF9Ia_dt4G5DQ8k6M0T6jsVpH7vWlyWxB7FJXrU8Xsm13b3gF4VVaor2n_QHmDNDvWfVjWV5XWDMf1dH312hDyBQ_R9ylyNjbtHoqe-IDHU9ozWMqREQe6E81-Qxmxic95zH5VMmnJJTr85wiK8Lv/s320/IMG_1717.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savour a taste of tradition in dates, <i>dodol</i>,<br />cakes, cookies and a range of pastries and <i>kueh</i><br /> </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">This
buffet comes with hot and cold drinks as well as a selection of cut fresh
fruits and a wide range of traditional festive cookies, assorted pastries and
cakes, traditional Malay <i>kuih</i> and <i>dodol </i>in three flavours:
original, pandan and durian.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Nearby,
an entire counter was dedicated to serving sweet porridge desserts like <i>Bubur
Cha Cha</i>, <i>Bubur Pulut Hitam</i>, <i>Pengat Pisang</i>, and <i>Bubur Barli.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
taste of nostalgia continues with <i>Air Batu Campur</i> or ABC, a traditional
shaved-ice dessert specialty for diners to top with a choice of ingredients,
drizzled with syrup and palm sugar, as well as traditional ice-cream <i>potong </i>in
a range of flavours to pick from the chiller.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNpX-lDwbTtuiarJKBdnUMkFPPhcbKBbfJU27yYpqzBwI0tXSKqV1dwd6apUEu4fshesHk9O8v6SxWoi-GD5k6KdcZps7JcyQ_pnnB1RZGMYeUL8WD3HGDXj3uKK2xxsd2cWHA060VHSrHZKBP65Ejra8jBr9r7kLogeEsxWOGOHhnPgXu_6GB46RZ/s720/IMG_0540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNpX-lDwbTtuiarJKBdnUMkFPPhcbKBbfJU27yYpqzBwI0tXSKqV1dwd6apUEu4fshesHk9O8v6SxWoi-GD5k6KdcZps7JcyQ_pnnB1RZGMYeUL8WD3HGDXj3uKK2xxsd2cWHA060VHSrHZKBP65Ejra8jBr9r7kLogeEsxWOGOHhnPgXu_6GB46RZ/s320/IMG_0540.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A live station that serves <i>Kueh Ketayap</i> rolls<br />and <i>Seraya Durian<br /><br /></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
<b>Nostalgia Rasa Renaisssance Iftar Buffet</b> will be served at Café BLD from
March 12 to April 10, from 6.30pm to 10pm.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Priced
at RM198 nett per adult and RM99 nett per child aged between six to 12 years
old, while children below six years old will enjoy complimentary dining.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Club
Renaissance Johor Baru members are entitled to 15% discount.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Take
advantage of the <b>Early Bird Promotion</b> by buying your dining vouchers
without delay.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZTfOtA-WXtfX4ZB4dbFgwrczSnGGZ7v3zVAGoAsccBzYs0RfR1Nxs85GPM54eGkn2cotilrlZYsoA3D8ITSwr2vk7XutUig9Anbwl3JQjxsoiZ0DKZjlnqQrytUrdTWLg3gf5-2LvybbKezVWhJ9OfyBVleaYzgp9VIzdYX_2E1509_iiHI_Lp-g/s4024/IMG_1718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3014" data-original-width="4024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaZTfOtA-WXtfX4ZB4dbFgwrczSnGGZ7v3zVAGoAsccBzYs0RfR1Nxs85GPM54eGkn2cotilrlZYsoA3D8ITSwr2vk7XutUig9Anbwl3JQjxsoiZ0DKZjlnqQrytUrdTWLg3gf5-2LvybbKezVWhJ9OfyBVleaYzgp9VIzdYX_2E1509_iiHI_Lp-g/s320/IMG_1718.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to Cafe BLD, located on the<br />lobby level of Renaissance Johor Baru<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Every
10 vouchers bought from now to Feb 29, will receive <b>two</b> complimentary
vouchers.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Every
10 vouchers bought from March 1 to March 10, will receive <b>one</b>
complimentary voucher. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Enjoy
a <b>RENtastic Deal</b> for dining vouchers bought from now to Feb 25, to dine
from March 12 to March 20, to get <b>two</b> complimentary vouchers for every
10 vouchers bought.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Diners
who wish to host their own breaking-of-fast gatherings, <b>Private Dining</b>
with a minimum of 30 people is offered with a choice of two menus at prices
starting from RM108 nett per person. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Café
BLD is located on the lobby level of Renaissance Johor Baru, at No. 2 Jalan
Permas 11, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, 81750 Johor Baru, Johor. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
enquiries and reservations, email to: rosliza.lazim@renaissancehotels.com or
evelyn.soh@renaissancehotels.com. <o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-89495089398933301032024-02-19T13:49:00.007+08:002024-02-19T13:51:21.554+08:00Flavours of Nusantara at Bricks, Legoland Hotel<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
Ramadan, have a breaking-of-fast dinner with a difference.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHwgDJiH6ul-A7gPKusaCyf_WOcnuaSKRZ3lSv4tHfLn6ofbZZPpqYAbQaMHO54OKTS-5d4AsEIZuqU28nhvUebdSkL_kmqRKw-KML7-S0GzCtgkhqo04ys9eercgF7LOlzyNx35pTeSYnolLk_0C9W0eU0z0kQy8hfuN4dCcldImEQDZMrGQ-9mtC/s4032/IMG_1578.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHwgDJiH6ul-A7gPKusaCyf_WOcnuaSKRZ3lSv4tHfLn6ofbZZPpqYAbQaMHO54OKTS-5d4AsEIZuqU28nhvUebdSkL_kmqRKw-KML7-S0GzCtgkhqo04ys9eercgF7LOlzyNx35pTeSYnolLk_0C9W0eU0z0kQy8hfuN4dCcldImEQDZMrGQ-9mtC/s320/IMG_1578.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breaking-of-fast desserts at Bricks Family <br />Restaurant, Legoland Hotel Malaysia, Johor Baru<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It
was always fun to dine in Bricks Family Restaurant in Legoland Hotel because
the restaurant is decorated with Lego bricks, created in various designs, both
as signages and sculptures in the buffet arrangement, that meets the
imagination of Lego fans.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Diners
at this Ramadan buffet will also have the option to start this delightful
dining experience with an exciting visit to SEALife Malaysia at only RM30 per
person, with entry from 4pm to 6pm on the dine-in day.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
exciting Legoland experience continues in Bricks Family Restaurant where various
Lego mascots will make an appearance and mingle with diners to give everyone
the opportunity to capture photograph souvenirs with them.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiT3Pg3t9dOf2TBqwtUo410cBKIUnw3Yk2RfSCAzsmaZ4DvWd5taTOu6rgtiofYmuWY1QwNhZKeMHMowgR9ciWJNMF3j7597lL46mPR6uxBYe_wYbfn9lzjsMw71hKFkiFHEtpruZSbg-cpUjoi2Epho-_5XZGwNnhwvDJHkta7A-ankrHqiZYI7Zh/s3838/IMG_1577.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3838" data-original-width="2746" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiT3Pg3t9dOf2TBqwtUo410cBKIUnw3Yk2RfSCAzsmaZ4DvWd5taTOu6rgtiofYmuWY1QwNhZKeMHMowgR9ciWJNMF3j7597lL46mPR6uxBYe_wYbfn9lzjsMw71hKFkiFHEtpruZSbg-cpUjoi2Epho-_5XZGwNnhwvDJHkta7A-ankrHqiZYI7Zh/s320/IMG_1577.jpg" width="229" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A range of seafood presented on ice<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">My
experience of the Flavours of Nusantara started from the entrance of the
restaurant where team members, dressed in traditional costumes, ushered me in
to be seated.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Heading
towards the table, the helpful team member reminded me that live-action stalls
were arranged on the outdoor terrace. From a glance through the glass-paneled
walls, I saw much activity going on at the live stations to prepare the
freshly-made dishes.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
liked the familiar feel of the restaurant where tables are covered with sheets
of paper designed with fun activities along with crayons, provided for young
diners to have fun while everyone enjoyed a leisurely buffet meal.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
wasted no time to explore the outdoor buffet where live-cooking stalls serve a
range of breaking-of-fast staples like whole roasted lamb, <i>Ikan Bakar</i> (grilled
fish) and of course, skewers of chicken and beef satay served with spicy peanut
sauce. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdovjOsNf_lpW4dspoKgQXzaNxzTB4GaPe7Tb-qrv7epHNwvhdgOb32MUqi2a97F38AvtFBK9U2FQjBHC31gV6TrciMfLXaUzdD3FqDLDMLE57j7lET2ClPtcnjy_JsBOO1DifAtP8AtfE0fXJR4GrgNxSfA6hXuJnMhwfsMI-C3Opg8hCy_axiLN/s708/IMG_0517.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="462" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdovjOsNf_lpW4dspoKgQXzaNxzTB4GaPe7Tb-qrv7epHNwvhdgOb32MUqi2a97F38AvtFBK9U2FQjBHC31gV6TrciMfLXaUzdD3FqDLDMLE57j7lET2ClPtcnjy_JsBOO1DifAtP8AtfE0fXJR4GrgNxSfA6hXuJnMhwfsMI-C3Opg8hCy_axiLN/s320/IMG_0517.JPG" width="209" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A warm welcome into<br />Bricks Family Restaurant<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">To
complement these local delights, there are also stalls that serve a choice of freshly
made noodles, pasta and local snacks like <i>apam balik</i>, deep-fried banana
as well as the ever-popular deep-fried durian rolls. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Inside
the restaurant, my eyes were riveted to the Dessert counter that was festooned
by trays of cakes, pastries, puddings and local <i>kuih</i> among various types
of traditional lamps in its decor, with a miniature wooden Malay kampung house
perched on top as its centerpiece.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
was a section for Seafood-on-Ice that serves whole plump prawns, flower crabs,
scallops and mussels in half shells to savour with a selection of dip sauces, while
a separate live-station serves freshly-made rolls of <i>popia</i> or spring
rolls.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
there were choices of appetizers, ice-creams, cut fruits and traditional <i>lemang</i>
and <i>ketupat</i> to savour with choices of beef or chicken <i>rendang</i> and
<i>serunding</i> arranged on separate counters, I did not miss the comforting <i>Bubur
Lambuk</i>, rice porridge in choices of beef or chicken, as well as the various
dishes presented in the Asian and Western wings of the hot buffet. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQVX6zXTIvcCGQ7On1IGR9q9k1QV4kD6MalYOuy7pYdCN8LpZmcA61ArJwnGh9t9QeswK3lPDq7S7QnZ20iXG8C_qUnXpWCDj-v86b87F5VfC5qg_ECFerXkfeOF2jgxioUA-e729ZdZM7-I0Vu1_fMHM8AqRIpN1Eg7yi6xAYIcUQ_0H5kYG9Ulx/s696/IMG_0500.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="442" data-original-width="696" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQVX6zXTIvcCGQ7On1IGR9q9k1QV4kD6MalYOuy7pYdCN8LpZmcA61ArJwnGh9t9QeswK3lPDq7S7QnZ20iXG8C_qUnXpWCDj-v86b87F5VfC5qg_ECFerXkfeOF2jgxioUA-e729ZdZM7-I0Vu1_fMHM8AqRIpN1Eg7yi6xAYIcUQ_0H5kYG9Ulx/s320/IMG_0500.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshly-made <i>popia</i> from this live station<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It
was good that the names of the dishes and gravies were written on label plaques
next to each warmer dish, so diners can read and make their choices. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">However,
if I did not see a label for any item, I just asked the helpful staff so that I
did not help myself to items that I may not like (and then wasted it).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
drinks counter presented a refreshing range of colourful, chilled drinks for
diners to fill their tumblers and mugs with choices of cold beverages.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP6EACN3pvWu5_KqqmKR4E8i1VAZYHLBjWRLL_sP7H9U6VxM678R4Y0JCpe8fi7fxmM5qjSZ0MqmU0FAzQ6Dmx0cgHEQj-7-Q7hq6JYcemeF7xKLYKtafBrHzBK6gKQCl7JKCHlaoIQByMCtMlM3dHPvJ_7DUp5wjgIpeU07LUrNN0tz-IOWiJ9mbG/s3561/IMG_1582.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2412" data-original-width="3561" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP6EACN3pvWu5_KqqmKR4E8i1VAZYHLBjWRLL_sP7H9U6VxM678R4Y0JCpe8fi7fxmM5qjSZ0MqmU0FAzQ6Dmx0cgHEQj-7-Q7hq6JYcemeF7xKLYKtafBrHzBK6gKQCl7JKCHlaoIQByMCtMlM3dHPvJ_7DUp5wjgIpeU07LUrNN0tz-IOWiJ9mbG/s320/IMG_1582.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional Malay dancers entertain during<br />the buffet dinner at Bricks Family Restaurant<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">While
we were enjoying the breaking-of-fast meal, the sound of traditional Malay
music bought our attention to the small stage where dancers stepped out to
perform a traditional Malay dance.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
festive mood continued with music entertainment provided by an acoustic band
playing familiar tunes that enhanced our enjoyable dining experience.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
Flavours of Nusantara Buffet Dinner will be served from <b>March 15 to April 7</b>
at Bricks Family Restaurant in the Legoland Hotel, from 6pm to 10pm.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhMxS2fYnuy-fff0R7U_u48AS6o4Rk-D6kwUY2zfiTtj0za7qtmQnzyzXxB2EjfHtAyJ0io8MLEbFyDhfAh49ni6pJHfRs5lDUh1I6h16pDD86QIumrcZ-mMNhkbqKIluLSFoNOF7pCzjbG95p2gg0tuAGV7DAZ07GoSZhPRUPI_XmYF1v5VJwuPvr/s4030/IMG_1579.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3022" data-original-width="4030" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhMxS2fYnuy-fff0R7U_u48AS6o4Rk-D6kwUY2zfiTtj0za7qtmQnzyzXxB2EjfHtAyJ0io8MLEbFyDhfAh49ni6pJHfRs5lDUh1I6h16pDD86QIumrcZ-mMNhkbqKIluLSFoNOF7pCzjbG95p2gg0tuAGV7DAZ07GoSZhPRUPI_XmYF1v5VJwuPvr/s320/IMG_1579.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refreshing cool drinks from this counter<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Priced
at *RM188 per adult and *RM95 per child aged five to 11 years and seniors aged
60 and above, that comes with a special price Day Ticket to SEALife Malaysia
(Entry from 4pm to 6pm) at only RM30 per person.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">*Legoland
Annual Pass members enjoy an exclusive 10% discount.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Take
advantage of the <b>Early Bird Promo</b> when you make your reservations <b>from
now to March 15</b>, to enjoy RM158 per adult and RM80 per child aged five to 11
years and seniors aged 60 and above, that comes with a special price Day Ticket
to SEALife Malaysia (Entry from 4pm to 6pm) at only RM30 per person.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Bricks
Family Restaurant is located on Level G, the lobby level of the Legoland Hotel,
Iskandar Puteri in Johor. For more info, visit website: www.LEGOLAND.my<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
reservations, Tel: +607 597 8888 daily from 9am to 6.30pm, or send email to: info@legoland.my<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
more info on Flavours of Nusantara dinner buffet, visit the official website </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">at </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.legoland.com.my/hotel/discover/dining-shopping/flavours-of-nusantara/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">https://www.legoland.com.my/hotel/discover/dining-shopping/flavours-of-nusantara/</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">or LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort social media pages on </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LEGOLAND.my/"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Facebook</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> and </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/legolandmalaysia/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Instagram</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-70360792310884528632024-02-17T15:26:00.001+08:002024-02-17T15:26:28.567+08:00Sajian Nostalgia at Causeway Cafe, St Giles<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">From
the lobby of St Giles Southkey on Level Two of Mid Valley Southkey Mall, an
elevator ride to Level Six took me to Causeway Café for a preview experience of
the Ramadan buffet spread in the theme, <i>Sajian Nostalgia</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaFJXVSzuqA-v88oI6WqDHO_tdpImtvgyWXVnNH44E2cB6VsB7f6UxbXZM3AHISq5pGk8nvkCXhDwEzC9cRVqPG3bZTtG1EIzWxGuLtlkUPbkx1rL2ipPydM-I4Ewb91YqNL7UGIMjZYPPTL4QX23pTAsFCx0HBYa7wwO_cd6tlSXhRmjptJaBKax/s702/IMG_0413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="702" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaFJXVSzuqA-v88oI6WqDHO_tdpImtvgyWXVnNH44E2cB6VsB7f6UxbXZM3AHISq5pGk8nvkCXhDwEzC9cRVqPG3bZTtG1EIzWxGuLtlkUPbkx1rL2ipPydM-I4Ewb91YqNL7UGIMjZYPPTL4QX23pTAsFCx0HBYa7wwO_cd6tlSXhRmjptJaBKax/s320/IMG_0413.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savour <i>Kambing Pak Mus,</i> roasted lamb with rice<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Popular
for its weekend buffets, Causeway Café will serve a breaking-of-fast feast that
comprise authentic Malay culinary delights for diners to go down the proverbial
Memory Lane as they savour familiar favourites this Ramadan month.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
liked that this Ramadan preview came complete with live music entertainment
provided by <i>Sri Putra</i>, a three-piece band who played the <i>gambus</i>,
cajon and accordion to provide a pleasant and unobtrusive dining ambience.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivCOFogx2T9vJCITf1y_XZVRFv4FrlrX-DRGlJZOVkuQs7CCvwBQgxlQ3cZFbenNncBkWBTLktXO7SbApCSZDPdip1d_beOJdVJ9kz3lF3BzsmjiKFZXIDFCP6vWqhPSR_UaQsPBv6YtYCqpCSlgp8TsiLinIeQocJaQAH5dKhbwcSvaHXPNCa7PQ/s720/IMG_0442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivCOFogx2T9vJCITf1y_XZVRFv4FrlrX-DRGlJZOVkuQs7CCvwBQgxlQ3cZFbenNncBkWBTLktXO7SbApCSZDPdip1d_beOJdVJ9kz3lF3BzsmjiKFZXIDFCP6vWqhPSR_UaQsPBv6YtYCqpCSlgp8TsiLinIeQocJaQAH5dKhbwcSvaHXPNCa7PQ/s320/IMG_0442.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live music entertainment by <i>Sri Putra</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">A
glance around the buffet spread showed me that in addition to traditional
breaking-of-fast dishes served from live-cooking stations and the hot buffet,
there were also Do-It-Yourself stations.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
feeling of nostalgia was enhanced by the use of traditional <i>dulang</i> or decorative
metal round trays that were incidentally, designed in bright Red and embossed
by the Chinese characters for Double Happiness.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwJ3RfnKmdh9SacYmsEzypbLIsCEbtBZ2NVdwF2_A_wuK8jFDMUk1vF6dYtCu5gBVoEtJqt1L_OTR3rVsk-z6LUhRvI7w4kd7kZDzJdp6oxoNgK1tEvzMu7WaGVzCbmgY4CkwyA2zXQjqqvu8rm_zZU3cmQnhOe8Pb33LoVPqf9n7LakEUQmfBNGp/s708/IMG_0435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="460" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwJ3RfnKmdh9SacYmsEzypbLIsCEbtBZ2NVdwF2_A_wuK8jFDMUk1vF6dYtCu5gBVoEtJqt1L_OTR3rVsk-z6LUhRvI7w4kd7kZDzJdp6oxoNgK1tEvzMu7WaGVzCbmgY4CkwyA2zXQjqqvu8rm_zZU3cmQnhOe8Pb33LoVPqf9n7LakEUQmfBNGp/s320/IMG_0435.JPG" width="208" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet dates to start with at the<br />breaking of fast <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
whole Roasted Lamb was dubbed, <i>Kambing Pak Mus</i>, where a chef will carve
and serve portions upon request. Drizzled with a choice of sauces, the lamb was
best savoured with flavoured rice. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
a separate station, a chef will serve chicken Shawarma to savour with Baba
Ganoush and Humus.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
was <i>Bubur Lambuk</i>, a tasty rice porridge and breaking-of-fast staple along
with hot soups to enjoy with a range of bread rolls.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
were refreshing local salads, <i>Ulam-ulaman</i> served with a range of
traditional sauces like Sambal Belacan, Tempoyak, Cili Kicap, Budu, Cencalok,
and Air Asam.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q9cfaV8MmxPVgi7Qw8NtWMUMQEJC-qNRKntl58vGHOZjoSjRh2YsSXy5rrPpiPNy0ahG4Yj-_gQAJ7PSAVjJj_YRhYsrOAMDCoNtv4oP9-1ILFQq-eBNxgWggTU1YPpOmgnnN71wVWMn8w2qmnYr41Y-F0Pzmi5qNHBI9k3IkWp0F7DqctDA9mDa/s720/IMG_0421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Q9cfaV8MmxPVgi7Qw8NtWMUMQEJC-qNRKntl58vGHOZjoSjRh2YsSXy5rrPpiPNy0ahG4Yj-_gQAJ7PSAVjJj_YRhYsrOAMDCoNtv4oP9-1ILFQq-eBNxgWggTU1YPpOmgnnN71wVWMn8w2qmnYr41Y-F0Pzmi5qNHBI9k3IkWp0F7DqctDA9mDa/s320/IMG_0421.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seafood-on-Ice is part of the buffet spread<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Local
appetizers comprised ready-made salads like Kerabu Pucuk Paku, Kerabu Daging
Salai Bakar, Kerabu Manga Ikan Bilis, Acar Buah, fruit pickles as well as
ingredients for Do-It-Yourself salads like <i>Gado-Gado</i> topped with spicy
peanut sauce.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">An
entire section was dedicated to pre-Raya specialties like <i>nasi empit</i>, <i>lemang</i>,
<i>ketupat</i> and <i>burasak</i>, traditional steamed rice and glutinous rice
items that taste good with chicken or beef <i>Serunding</i>, meat floss.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfecQTu9QvraBlxyFQTc778kz6NNP-HPXVuUmaIv3_T99DsqlvNsCJZAKzmSLzGuRN2gS5xxBzamGVP9yCJcj9qoyGTh_k-eqFzSV_bridi5RmUQpKFMZEsdYY5QSHh5E8Gz63plxXi8uN7vwTvGem7hB_5Ys3bPid4tIRSOaug0gmpMmUqcR1cshyphenhyphen/s686/IMG_0455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="686" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfecQTu9QvraBlxyFQTc778kz6NNP-HPXVuUmaIv3_T99DsqlvNsCJZAKzmSLzGuRN2gS5xxBzamGVP9yCJcj9qoyGTh_k-eqFzSV_bridi5RmUQpKFMZEsdYY5QSHh5E8Gz63plxXi8uN7vwTvGem7hB_5Ys3bPid4tIRSOaug0gmpMmUqcR1cshyphenhyphen/s320/IMG_0455.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diners helping themselves to<br /> dishes from the hot buffet<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">There
was also an attractive display for Seafood-on-Ice to pick from a choice of prawns,
mussels and crabs to savour with lemon juice and a choice of sauces. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
noticed that Asian favourites like steamed Dim Sum were served in large,
rectangular shaped steamers, probably to meet with the high demand during the
breaking of fast meal.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
was interesting to learn that one of the popular choices for the
breaking-of-fast was Japanese specialties so there was a good spread like
Sushi, Sashimi, Maki Rolls along with complimentary condiments like wasabi and
refreshing pickles and salads.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX58sCzJiKrsoXu0He04BtxNCjcjdA62OYvg4Esp3NNo_piADLBDI82XN-j4Pm0zHyuwhThl1rRnNPsoBmjsLPaZdFeEzOkyYyg_E3z22VidVpoaSpLL7KdglahCsR8S7Ef1fY_8O4rMbGm-LtwmbuNElsMyZVlp71HegzfRZUz_fuPs-eElMxYAUN/s629/IMG_0452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="629" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX58sCzJiKrsoXu0He04BtxNCjcjdA62OYvg4Esp3NNo_piADLBDI82XN-j4Pm0zHyuwhThl1rRnNPsoBmjsLPaZdFeEzOkyYyg_E3z22VidVpoaSpLL7KdglahCsR8S7Ef1fY_8O4rMbGm-LtwmbuNElsMyZVlp71HegzfRZUz_fuPs-eElMxYAUN/s320/IMG_0452.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend, Lisa, helping herself to freshly-made<br />sushi and sashimi at the Japanese section<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">From
the hot buffet, diners can help themselves to steamed white rice that tastes
right with popular gravies like <i>Rendang Daging</i> (beef), <i>Ikan Tenggiri
Asam Pedas</i> (fish), <i>Ayam Masak Merah</i> (chicken), <i>Sotong Goreng
Berempah</i> (squid), <i>Sayur Goreng Jawa</i> (vegetables) and Chinese dishes
like Beef Kung Pao, Egg Foo Yong and <i>Sayur Campur</i>, stir-fried mixed
vegetables.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Among
the deep-fried snacks were slices of bananas and sweet potato, curry puffs,
spring rolls and rolls of deep-fried durian – which I was told – specially
prepared in a batter created by their own Chinese chef.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiatosrlB5qfITkJK2GLr7MBiCEe8zO2q0IXzDsBKr_FETPmDk6LdoPVN2Bx89LCobQmlQUtEXZzZuOTotrF6MMkUp6TIUqkKBdfiNDL0038sC4CgKRUBVduigq1_N1I8BlklwRXjSpgk4CIta0YRMH1fu4gyr9-UoMiH_o6bz-IlwVpbU0gsgV1mG/s720/IMG_0456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiatosrlB5qfITkJK2GLr7MBiCEe8zO2q0IXzDsBKr_FETPmDk6LdoPVN2Bx89LCobQmlQUtEXZzZuOTotrF6MMkUp6TIUqkKBdfiNDL0038sC4CgKRUBVduigq1_N1I8BlklwRXjSpgk4CIta0YRMH1fu4gyr9-UoMiH_o6bz-IlwVpbU0gsgV1mG/s320/IMG_0456.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A choice of refreshing fresh fruits to enjoy<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">In
addition to refreshing drinks, there were fresh, cut fruits and a range of
popular desserts like jellies, puddings, cakes and pastries as well as
traditional sweets like dried dates and festive <i>kueh</i>. </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">To
end the meal coolly, there was a Do-It-Yourself section for <i>Ais Batu Campur</i>,
a shaved ice dessert for creative mixes of shaved ice treats as well as a range
of <i>Haagan Dazs</i> ice-cream to add toppings of your choice.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
was pleased to learn that the menu served at Causeway Café will rotate daily
for diners to enjoy a different range of dishes for the breaking of fast during
the Ramadan month. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLV6lrVXv4oJe8mpZTxOCc0-A0j5VW48lAQ9eP1DVz7NpCH8k_Ay1_uZnizf6HQOW2KV5cttaArwrFzAdxYQ1X-iQqUHc62oB8T_IXL_wX_AHoX_Y7E_OlWi0Xy35g8z4UesSNenCSw788cY5pUlrk_URXa28z7L9lPNVqay86dyExnybEsHXLGLhE/s720/IMG_0433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLV6lrVXv4oJe8mpZTxOCc0-A0j5VW48lAQ9eP1DVz7NpCH8k_Ay1_uZnizf6HQOW2KV5cttaArwrFzAdxYQ1X-iQqUHc62oB8T_IXL_wX_AHoX_Y7E_OlWi0Xy35g8z4UesSNenCSw788cY5pUlrk_URXa28z7L9lPNVqay86dyExnybEsHXLGLhE/s320/IMG_0433.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional festive treats from this buffet spread<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
<i>Sajian Nostalgia</i> buffet dinner will be served at the Causeway Café from 6.30pm
to 10.00pm from <b>March 18 to April 8, 2024</b>.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Rate
at <b>RM188nett per adult</b>, <b>RM130nett per seniors</b> aged 60 and above and
<b>RM94nett per child</b> aged six to 12 years. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Enjoy
<b>Early Bird price of RM158nett</b> per adult by<b> booking from now to March
1 </b>and to<b> enjoy 15% off</b> total bill for groups of 10 and above when
you book from March 2 to April 8 or <b>Buy Five-Free One</b> deal. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
reservations, Tel: +6012 309 9762 or email to fnb.skjb@stgiles-hotels.com. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
more info, visit webpage: www.stgileshotels.com/st-giles-hotels.com<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Causeway
Café is on Level Six of St Giles Southkey, located within Mid Valley Southkey
Mall at No. 1 Persiaran Southkey 1, Kota Southkey. 80150 Johor Baru, Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-45020415238302666492024-02-14T18:21:00.005+08:002024-02-14T18:23:35.375+08:00Two majestic monuments in Johor Baru<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In my recent story on the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2024/02/a-vintage-photo-studio.html">vintage photo studio</a>, I made reference to Ahmad Fadhli Syed Hassan who was on a quest
to uncover information about the monument that commemorated the Diamond Jubilee
year of the rule of Sultan Sir Ibrahim (topped by a crown) and the Tanjong
Puteri Monument (topped by a star and crescent).<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhSaxTxPtpZfMiOD9BO82Kb_fDzHgu6Wuag-W5k-ZmB63S78QsVFC9ePGMAU7OaR3YHPi3HomQeNyz-W-NQCESzUYPZOq5v5H-_20Gq_OJxgmVklx0WOxcMLYVzDSy1fSoZd7Z5wg-CRAgGVBvwDvuK3BfzKFG2VwFaNSSohlqEeaZjp8eGfdXhxXz/s960/IMG_5935.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhSaxTxPtpZfMiOD9BO82Kb_fDzHgu6Wuag-W5k-ZmB63S78QsVFC9ePGMAU7OaR3YHPi3HomQeNyz-W-NQCESzUYPZOq5v5H-_20Gq_OJxgmVklx0WOxcMLYVzDSy1fSoZd7Z5wg-CRAgGVBvwDvuK3BfzKFG2VwFaNSSohlqEeaZjp8eGfdXhxXz/s320/IMG_5935.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The two majestic monuments in the front<br />compound of Istana Gardens on a hillock<br /> that overlooks the Straits of Johor;<br />Photo courtesy of Dato Dr Abdul Rahim Ramli<br /> </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ahmad Fadhli is a fellow author with
a passion to document stories on members of the Johor royal family. His book, <i>Almarhum
Sultan Ismail Johor 1894 – 1981</i>, was published in 2018.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">He is currently doing the research,
collecting info and photos for his next book project on the Diamond Jubilee
celebration of Sultan Sir Ibrahim (1895 to 1959), which he will co-author with
our mutual friend, Johor Royal Court Council advisor, Dato’ Dr Haji Kassim
Thukiman.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">During our brief chat to verify
some information on the Johor monuments, Ahmad Fadhli also shared with me,
photos of the sites for these two monuments along with a coloured postcard,
printed with a vintage photograph of the monument.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3iK-89SOtVCxZ66zAocN2ckLWyszBhoZxdr7-iN8jCWcRwGnQXs9-wWDxd3DJpq0sZ_V0sGzBbTzLAoAjMluS7gmVgDsb66cOwifg4SYHQN0RQsgEIrDnrylQnwIUE3Y6NNEFrDrCE2j4JsjovTjQvQEGzLsJTeJWNwLaqvlAQmu1Pczob6y9JD1/s3315/k1.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2078" data-original-width="3315" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3iK-89SOtVCxZ66zAocN2ckLWyszBhoZxdr7-iN8jCWcRwGnQXs9-wWDxd3DJpq0sZ_V0sGzBbTzLAoAjMluS7gmVgDsb66cOwifg4SYHQN0RQsgEIrDnrylQnwIUE3Y6NNEFrDrCE2j4JsjovTjQvQEGzLsJTeJWNwLaqvlAQmu1Pczob6y9JD1/s320/k1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picture postcard that Ahmad Fadhli bought<br />which showed the original site of this monument<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">We talked about the two monuments,
their original sites in the heart of Johor Baru and how the two looked similar
but were distinguished by the features on top.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I shared his curiosity about the
original sites because I could hardly remember anything until he showed me his
postcard printed with a coloured photograph. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">From the reverse side of this
postcard, I read that it was printed in the USA and was titled, “MEMORY OF
DIAMOND JUBILEE, Johore Baru, Malaya.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGethKjF7eDNpr1VjROsvInM-4Xr8Aj307GRtGQPQXplpNCGNUY8S9xStaHgmUuDMWklOzoJrddq9kBQkfgjHlu4VTgDeZFUVK8Neof6QqLYRiLDeNYJluYc-AUmjtk8Z5qRTI2Ul7WqR8Sz6T_QtJR3lvZgZFQrd08wiSJ2G6waln3ygjlPlrK_QZ/s3329/k2.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2119" data-original-width="3329" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGethKjF7eDNpr1VjROsvInM-4Xr8Aj307GRtGQPQXplpNCGNUY8S9xStaHgmUuDMWklOzoJrddq9kBQkfgjHlu4VTgDeZFUVK8Neof6QqLYRiLDeNYJluYc-AUmjtk8Z5qRTI2Ul7WqR8Sz6T_QtJR3lvZgZFQrd08wiSJ2G6waln3ygjlPlrK_QZ/s320/k2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The reverse side of this postcard<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ahmad Fadhli and I also share the
privilege of approaching Dato’ Dr Abdul Rahim Ramli, President of the Johor
Royal Court Council, to discuss and verify information on Johor culture and
heritage.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">And from Dato’ Rahim’s Facebook
post, we learnt that the current location of these two monuments is within the
grounds of Istana Gardens, on a site that overlooked the Johor Straits, also
known as Tebrau Straits.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">But where were their original
sites? <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Were they located side-by-side or
at different locations? <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWtkxvauHFPby7hsxem4WP_nfp0JqgbCzjyv3hbDJ9hm-Jbe3RTIRcyELFbkrrheMGh8eRlfTZh-zYsgLLh3WIyiCeEFVvU3rJVVrFg4HcttfooyMF-vlcueKDId08S-vJL8ZURtEabBU2h12HWiqsy7jz0gholwbXQ_2ZB4Tx2d7ecTmK7ISS_VE/s3256/Perasmian%20Tugu%20Peringatan%20Johor%20Bahru.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2022" data-original-width="3256" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWtkxvauHFPby7hsxem4WP_nfp0JqgbCzjyv3hbDJ9hm-Jbe3RTIRcyELFbkrrheMGh8eRlfTZh-zYsgLLh3WIyiCeEFVvU3rJVVrFg4HcttfooyMF-vlcueKDId08S-vJL8ZURtEabBU2h12HWiqsy7jz0gholwbXQ_2ZB4Tx2d7ecTmK7ISS_VE/s320/Perasmian%20Tugu%20Peringatan%20Johor%20Bahru.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A vintage photo from the Johore Heng Photo<br />Studio taken in 1955 to commemorate the<br />Diamond Jubilee year of the rule of <br />Sultan Sir Ibrahim; The Sultan is seen here <br />with Lady Marcella and Princess Tunku Meriam<br /> </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Thanks to Ahmad Fadhli and his
keen interest to discover more, he managed to buy this coloured, vintage picture
postcard from Carousell which showed the site of the monument (topped by a
crown) located close to the Johor Straits, that commemorated the Diamond
Jubilee year of the rule of Sultan Sir Ibrahim.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The photo on this postcard
depicted a typical scene on a Public Holiday – note the flags and buntings
strung across the lamp-posts, fluttering in the wind – where the public
thronged the street and patronised a mobile food stall, set up next to the
monument.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Something of interest to me were
the casual outfits of the men, women and children, particularly for the women
who dressed modestly in <i>baju kurung</i> with scarves for head-covering while
many women sported uncovered heads.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3hRZyy8Q_p_paNnkRTaxQrU78V1QWpSbkyattAZOCungClStIvf9pIV7nhVqpCp7ZcIrADCA67dci5hMMqVk9-htadbUt4qtWoGuvbHxljt2NLdDypsHxTi-64sKx0UA1WBiyywfC8Lktjpmxu9hxrPU0A5aohbKKO_plGVtsWcxqikZUMxiS27Rk/s1280/PHOTO-2024-02-03-09-17-30.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="963" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3hRZyy8Q_p_paNnkRTaxQrU78V1QWpSbkyattAZOCungClStIvf9pIV7nhVqpCp7ZcIrADCA67dci5hMMqVk9-htadbUt4qtWoGuvbHxljt2NLdDypsHxTi-64sKx0UA1WBiyywfC8Lktjpmxu9hxrPU0A5aohbKKO_plGVtsWcxqikZUMxiS27Rk/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-03-09-17-30.jpg" width="241" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The site can be identified by the <br />concrete border of the original <br />platform for the monument<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">From looking at this picture postcard,
Ahmad Fadhli narrowed down his search for the site to the coast which bordered
the Johor Straits, an area which now looked different with the addition of reclaimed
land and an elevated coastal highway.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">A short walk along Jalan Ibrahim
took him to the site which can still be identified by the concrete border of
the original (I guess!) hexagonal-shaped platform where the monument was first
established to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee year of the rule of Sultan Sir
Ibrahim in 1955.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Ahmad Fadhli was pleased to have obtained
a copy of vintage photograph from the Johore Heng Photo Studio, captured at the
event that featured Sultan Sir Ibrahim, his consort Lady Marcella and Princess
Tunku Meriam. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">When he stepped onto the grassy
site – somewhere opposite the Johor Courthouse – Ahmad Fadhli observed that the
only thing which remained here was an old tree.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-cjCAu8VSb9s5AfffW3Q6B_0FpYYWkjg82NfgABtxkFORNIIz-IQ971f57812vr_QwW9_ye_8K6_bH_uandwlVAsU5sE4NEazuARgFJ0WMC4zOgmzEZpxmQWfZUmu4agdKYyKyNIc3khK1MPuUX44PePyQIlHYedoVFXOO4QUE3KOwjAXZaYAtYM/s1280/PHOTO-2024-02-03-10-53-59.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ-cjCAu8VSb9s5AfffW3Q6B_0FpYYWkjg82NfgABtxkFORNIIz-IQ971f57812vr_QwW9_ye_8K6_bH_uandwlVAsU5sE4NEazuARgFJ0WMC4zOgmzEZpxmQWfZUmu4agdKYyKyNIc3khK1MPuUX44PePyQIlHYedoVFXOO4QUE3KOwjAXZaYAtYM/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-03-10-53-59.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's Ahmad Fadhli at the site of the <br />monument along Jalan Ibrahim<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">As for the Tanjong Puteri
Monument which is topped by a star and crescent, Ahmad Fadli was pleased to have
obtained another copy of an old photo from the Johore Heng Photo Studio that showed
a bird’s-eye view of Jalan Tun Abdul Razak in the direction of downtown Johor
Baru, cut across by the flyover to Jalan Bukit Meldrum.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Ahmad Fadhli drew in an “arrow”
to point out the original site of this monument which once stood at Jalan
Sawmill, a small road that borders the Johor Baru Central Police Station.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">From this photo, we safely
concluded that it was where Johore Heng Photo Studio photographer, Liew Wee
Peng, captured that precious shot of his two young sons, Ah Lek and Kok Choy,
next to this monument at Jalan Sawmill, so many years ago.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpf1bQohuNMa8O9p6eXIcl8rozd6aQqwEP6MPCk3oLL3Y5Kv35ZtCBuRAGfFDKR6XFQCnFX9K1OwhEVCgwItxvj_oXrIUzRlFGITKfwBCeVLSVhMxGX82C8MWbQkNpmkuPlKFb7FBUrID05oXwyEr_bpT6J_gWfrnjjJApcFU-6YusqVy2hcFKUJEI/s1198/PHOTO-2024-02-03-10-32-02.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="842" data-original-width="1198" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpf1bQohuNMa8O9p6eXIcl8rozd6aQqwEP6MPCk3oLL3Y5Kv35ZtCBuRAGfFDKR6XFQCnFX9K1OwhEVCgwItxvj_oXrIUzRlFGITKfwBCeVLSVhMxGX82C8MWbQkNpmkuPlKFb7FBUrID05oXwyEr_bpT6J_gWfrnjjJApcFU-6YusqVy2hcFKUJEI/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-03-10-32-02.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The arrow points to the original site of the <br />Tanjong Puteri Monument at Jalan Sawmill<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Jalan Sawmill has been reduced to
a short road and Ahmad Fadhli did well to drive around this area to locate the
spot – now under the flyover – when this monument once stood.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">[Incidentally, I was near this
very spot with a group on a Heritage Walk under the <i>My Johor Stories in
Downtown Johor Baru</i> project in April 2023.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We are grateful for the info
shared by Dato’ Rahim in his Facebook post which explained that these Johor monuments
were relocated, not once but twice, as Johor Baru city developed with modern infrastructure
like roads, highways and flyovers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSotYNpnCJLipNVpE9ofsF4chb0Gra-AcnFb9gihYlR1bm9fSw_SAHTCk9gDg1InrGeMjutsuRmj8yJZejVxT2Lkdydeln_0mPiUYk-AvsEs27CVDAJ5_n3Cui6bNwQ0iS1Fzc3VFMhCX60NN9JfnTyl2wjbYLkLbWYZwumoUxf1P-QARH6qiMb4Ny/s960/IMG_5934.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSotYNpnCJLipNVpE9ofsF4chb0Gra-AcnFb9gihYlR1bm9fSw_SAHTCk9gDg1InrGeMjutsuRmj8yJZejVxT2Lkdydeln_0mPiUYk-AvsEs27CVDAJ5_n3Cui6bNwQ0iS1Fzc3VFMhCX60NN9JfnTyl2wjbYLkLbWYZwumoUxf1P-QARH6qiMb4Ny/s320/IMG_5934.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Golden Jubilee Monument<br />now located in the Istana Gardens<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In 1995, the two monuments were
relocated to an open area in front of the guardhouse at the Grand Palace or <i>Istana
Besar</i>. This, however, was a low-lying area and often subject to flooding. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">As such, His Majesty Sultan
Ibrahim decreed in 2012 that the two monuments be shifted to a hillock in the front
compound of Istana Gardens where they overlooked the Johor Straits.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">A 100-ft flagpole was erected
here to stand as sentinel to Johor, in accordance to the wisdom and vision of
Sultan Abu Bakar where those who arrived in Johor will lift their heads to pay
respects to the sovereignty of the state of Johor Darul Ta’zim.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Istana Gardens, however, is now closed
to the public but the two monuments can still be seen from the road.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">So the next time you pass the
Istana Gardens, slow down to take a look at the two majestic monuments that were
established to mark important milestones in the history of modern Johor. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-60985144950125873302024-02-12T16:11:00.011+08:002024-02-12T16:20:03.451+08:00A vintage photo studio<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I met the two brothers, Liew Ah
Lek also known as Alex, and his brother, Liew Kok Choy, who operate the Johore
Heng Photo Studio located at No. 61-A (upstairs!) on Jalan Ibrahim in the heart
of Johor Baru’s heritage quarter and published a piece titled, <i><a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2011/03/liews-lens-of-history.html">Johor through Liew’s lens of history</a></i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqezGue1Z5YMZ9_uXKlNh8eU_8zIbwpt9aTUcKBddTvC5G2upOzWge9wPTBDuPk_fgdZ5b_8qkfR0TGKLchrI9RyZyMin07H_AHEPYQHBSqH2NmpB3MJpiNSFnDuDsp5hJL5fXTRYOWmTJtuPgJhijzs6fgzgshJgO1UWq3ZtKD7utJXMHrQy9MOs/s1232/8f901f13-e92f-4bee-be22-ae4cf1615fe4.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="894" data-original-width="1232" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqezGue1Z5YMZ9_uXKlNh8eU_8zIbwpt9aTUcKBddTvC5G2upOzWge9wPTBDuPk_fgdZ5b_8qkfR0TGKLchrI9RyZyMin07H_AHEPYQHBSqH2NmpB3MJpiNSFnDuDsp5hJL5fXTRYOWmTJtuPgJhijzs6fgzgshJgO1UWq3ZtKD7utJXMHrQy9MOs/s320/8f901f13-e92f-4bee-be22-ae4cf1615fe4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A group shot captured inside the<br />Johore Heng Photo Studio in January 2024<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It was dated 7 December 2010, a
cover and centrespread story published in <i>Johor Streets</i>, a pull-out
section of The New Straits Times.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Since then, the newsprint pages
of this publication were postered on the wall of the photo studio next to other
Chinese newspaper publications that featured this photo studio.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">A distinctive feature of this
photo studio was that the walls along the staircase as well as the walls of the
lobby upstairs were covered with a collection of valuable, vintage photographs
of Johor and members of the Johor royal family through generations of Johor
history.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In 2018, while I was compiling
stories for the contents of <i>My Johor Stories 2: Interesting Places and
Inspirational People</i>, a version of this story on the Johore Heng Photo
Studio was also featured among the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/02/downtown-johor-baru-heritage-traders.html">Heritage Traders who are still doing the businesses inherited from their forefathers.</a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7XGJT0K1zSEHGf6eakBxOc77G9myq8MseppnTLjgTqe406w1JuMHNTvVrcvm9EmVb0TC3S5KPmNYCE4cQSPsVwObxATmMk4ACWKlIADv5JRXAe2_PeykIx7jDSNiCxf6559dhnvGr6J4hBbGAX-fal_OtfAH_ihdDpcx3YVkSIAT9EAfKcfyleO77/s3958/IMG_7742.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3958" data-original-width="2922" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7XGJT0K1zSEHGf6eakBxOc77G9myq8MseppnTLjgTqe406w1JuMHNTvVrcvm9EmVb0TC3S5KPmNYCE4cQSPsVwObxATmMk4ACWKlIADv5JRXAe2_PeykIx7jDSNiCxf6559dhnvGr6J4hBbGAX-fal_OtfAH_ihdDpcx3YVkSIAT9EAfKcfyleO77/s320/IMG_7742.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My story postered on the wall <br />inside Johore Heng Photo Studio<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Readers who are familiar with this
photo studio, will know that the Johore Heng Photo Studio was one of the few
professional photography shops that was opened in Johor Baru since the early
1900s.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Johor was then was spelled with
an “e” to read as “Johore” and the business was named after its original owner,
Heng Kok Wee.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Heng’s photographer, Liew Wee
Peng – the father of the Liew brothers – later took over the business and the
brothers inherited the business from their father.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">For the <i>My Johor Stories in
Downtown Johor Baru</i> project in early 2023, I arranged four Heritage Walks
through the city’s heritage quarter. Each of the four Walks was planned in a
different theme with the second one that featured our heritage traders.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I was keen to let participants
have an experience of the vintage Johore Heng Photo Studio among other heritage
traders in the city who were still doing the businesses that were started by
their forefathers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRVASwfgsAK-Khba_v7H-CAoh8OzKNn9pGlOXk_Xoerv2BbT-jftgPdbS2z8J2BQdW8dj_7PWan8cBAdA8Ze95IcgoOm4UAc9i1hM_I-EDcxb_wlmP1tBhMIf_IUBAMiE_lX-m4aDYqbgKtLIkohk1MO8Q-EF-cKkdD713Vsj3x5GGKMm6_qisT2tF/s3609/IMG_7737.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3609" data-original-width="2844" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRVASwfgsAK-Khba_v7H-CAoh8OzKNn9pGlOXk_Xoerv2BbT-jftgPdbS2z8J2BQdW8dj_7PWan8cBAdA8Ze95IcgoOm4UAc9i1hM_I-EDcxb_wlmP1tBhMIf_IUBAMiE_lX-m4aDYqbgKtLIkohk1MO8Q-EF-cKkdD713Vsj3x5GGKMm6_qisT2tF/s320/IMG_7737.jpg" width="252" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The downstairs entrance to <br />Johore Heng Photo Studio<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In January 2023, </span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Tengku Tarmizi Bin Tengku Aziz, his wife and two young
children were among</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> the participants in my Heritage Walk</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Incidentally, </span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Tengku Tarmizi (TT) is the Librarian of the Sultan
Ismail Library at Jalan Datin Halimah.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">His
Walk experience with me left such a positive impression that TT also arranged
to join the next Heritage Walk in February 2023 which included a visit to the
Johore Heng Photo Studio.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">TT so enjoyed his
My Johor Stories in Downtown JB experience and was </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">so impressed with the valuable collection of old
photos in this vintage photo studio </span><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">that he shared it
with his boss, the <i>Datuk Bandar</i> or Johor Baru</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> <span lang="EN-US">City Mayor, Dato’ Haji Mohd Noorazam
Dato Haji Osman.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #19080c; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In fact, he brought
the Datuk Bandar to Johore Heng Photo Studio for a first-hand experience of
this charming vintage photo studio in the city’s heritage quarter.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWo_9FGF-eRPUNJFkyDHqQDape6e7WPI72f1Rj8DJMa9QDyOvyzLwWO33BhCmNaT5egf0gtB5V-dNk2GOtkwE7xEilwyStMBEKcGragDA5LxFflbtXuJkSVdPAbj51XMYf1wnSjDuksZjjQSbNKNWKvI9Bs6KymkPWWM4_2MenzAjjYBv35NNGoUb/s3564/IMG_7741.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3564" data-original-width="2798" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWo_9FGF-eRPUNJFkyDHqQDape6e7WPI72f1Rj8DJMa9QDyOvyzLwWO33BhCmNaT5egf0gtB5V-dNk2GOtkwE7xEilwyStMBEKcGragDA5LxFflbtXuJkSVdPAbj51XMYf1wnSjDuksZjjQSbNKNWKvI9Bs6KymkPWWM4_2MenzAjjYBv35NNGoUb/s320/IMG_7741.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This vintage photo studio once<br />boasted of an air-conditioned section<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then in December 2023, I was
happy to include the Johore Heng Photo Studio into the itinerary of my Heritage
Walk because I knew that a vintage photo studio such as this, would be an
eye-opening destination for the participants.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">However, <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2023/12/one-more-heritage-walk-in-2023.html">on the day of this Heritage Walk</a>, I was deeply disappointed to see that this vintage photo studio
was closed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">When I shared this disappointment
with TT, I was saddened to hear that he found out that the Johore Heng Photo
Studio was permanently closed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">He also told me that the studio’s
valuable collection of old photos was relocated to <i>Galeri Sejarah Johor</i>,
a gallery for Johor historical artefacts run by avid collector, Mohd Fariz
Johari, located at the KOMTAR JBCC Mall.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxM7XqCkWpANp6eCUFr1kWJTrTtc-jvsRznJq54RQQymAz3r-8_jju4BSc5-ncw1bFo_BWZuJm2qwwdofUuV-B3uI4gkHnK5haHhDF2MVOorGabnqiW_58FAh9ECRJAzwOjkLiv-VZSBh2xBxegfpGX4UO2wPNIDmoLNKCD2HBRNOijqUsSwrvfp7/s1272/PHOTO-2024-01-11-13-40-27.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="1272" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxM7XqCkWpANp6eCUFr1kWJTrTtc-jvsRznJq54RQQymAz3r-8_jju4BSc5-ncw1bFo_BWZuJm2qwwdofUuV-B3uI4gkHnK5haHhDF2MVOorGabnqiW_58FAh9ECRJAzwOjkLiv-VZSBh2xBxegfpGX4UO2wPNIDmoLNKCD2HBRNOijqUsSwrvfp7/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-11-13-40-27.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was pleased that the photo studio was still open<br />in January 2024 for this group to experience it<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">While I was aware that the
studio’s closure was possible because the Liew brothers were advancing in age
and they may no longer wish to continue with the business, I was still sorry
that we will no longer have the privilege to experience such a vintage photo
studio in our city.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Later on, when my friends told me
that they saw the photo studio was opened just the day before, I was hopeful
that its doors were momentarily shut that day when I was downtown and that this
photo studio was not (yet!) permanently closed. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">So when I was planning my
<a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2024/01/a-heritage-walk-discovery-experience.html">Heritage Walk for January 2024</a>, I was apprehensive about including the photo
studio into my itinerary, lest I will be disappointed again.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKN9E1VBHoJLHg1DM7MYmXhJml00Es68rgxv9Vgd1nDdu3nMLRvpL2UldK1wny8yj-ENRv0yDNj_eBVhz9jK2UcDnoRR0pZwgD06pXfSbdGRd2UYQjuiTfqM7Mq-Z4Ag9sYUNHNlYHNCf3BLzEu8qZ1oamTFG5I30Dt9ESKoZJD1KVhPFotXdYdZti/s4032/IMG_7738.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKN9E1VBHoJLHg1DM7MYmXhJml00Es68rgxv9Vgd1nDdu3nMLRvpL2UldK1wny8yj-ENRv0yDNj_eBVhz9jK2UcDnoRR0pZwgD06pXfSbdGRd2UYQjuiTfqM7Mq-Z4Ag9sYUNHNlYHNCf3BLzEu8qZ1oamTFG5I30Dt9ESKoZJD1KVhPFotXdYdZti/s320/IMG_7738.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A collection of formal wedding<br />photos and portrait photos<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">On the day of this Heritage Walk,
my fingers were crossed as I walked down Jalan Trus towards Jalan Ibrahim –
eager to see if the photo studio was opened – and only uncrossed my fingers
when I saw that the photo studio was indeed, opened.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">It was comforting to see the
familiar figure of Kok Choy seated at the downstairs entrance to the photo
studio but when I arrived and looked closer, I noticed that most of the vintage
photos that used to adorn the walls of the staircase and upstairs lobby, were
removed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I told the participants to make
the most of this visit as they may be among the last to have the privilege of such
an experience because this photo studio will soon be closed for good.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I reminded them that in the age
before the invention of telephones with built-in cameras, not every one could
afford to own their own camera nor had the skills to operate a good camera.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6lMxmn94QE_obGhExKxGXyJNtlORYcJ2t7pYcXg2C5g2chcDyMsBmnBRRwO2x0s2x9a4heLvIT5kJGoThktauegThnPoUqgKIXZssztCzDWZ4xiNegwtqjK3knhwwMWssNmOpCh1o0fnzbIp82hhgT2Mn-IWgqeFVHI0HCW5rjiluWQOhEa-hKHT/s4030/IMG_7740.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4030" data-original-width="3022" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6lMxmn94QE_obGhExKxGXyJNtlORYcJ2t7pYcXg2C5g2chcDyMsBmnBRRwO2x0s2x9a4heLvIT5kJGoThktauegThnPoUqgKIXZssztCzDWZ4xiNegwtqjK3knhwwMWssNmOpCh1o0fnzbIp82hhgT2Mn-IWgqeFVHI0HCW5rjiluWQOhEa-hKHT/s320/IMG_7740.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A kiosk equipped with powder and <br />comb, songkok, neckties, blazer or<br />jacket to be properly dressed for photos<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">So the photo studio used to be an
important part of life to mark major milestones of achievement in families or
for people who kept photos as precious mementoes.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Inside the studio, there was a
collection of formal studio shots of wedding couples that reminded us that many
couples chose to capture photo mementoes of their wedding to frame up for
display in their marital home.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In this modern era, wedding
photography has been taken to new heights by creative teams who not only dress
and style the wedding couple, they also arrange photo destinations – both local
and abroad – to capture exciting outdoor shots to compile into an album as well
as to present in videos shown during the wedding banquet.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Now everyone – from kids to
grandfathers – have their own sophisticated smartphones with built-in cameras
and know how to use the phone’s smart features to compose and create clever
shots, reels and videos, to post on social media.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoatmjFYrqwLx2wMxLXFxQj_KchuVLs6tE9pi5vW8kcenwxUyfh6NhHmTvNfWYEBgq3986zV5bGWywfyepPA34OsLm6KRvkM4jxosNdzO_bbB4VKP3tJlv-DNVItAzprHXcEpSjX-derIKrSZdAyeOyCx9XPEosyn6si_KB7KtC-au6imFczvUgyU7/s960/IMG_8098.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoatmjFYrqwLx2wMxLXFxQj_KchuVLs6tE9pi5vW8kcenwxUyfh6NhHmTvNfWYEBgq3986zV5bGWywfyepPA34OsLm6KRvkM4jxosNdzO_bbB4VKP3tJlv-DNVItAzprHXcEpSjX-derIKrSZdAyeOyCx9XPEosyn6si_KB7KtC-au6imFczvUgyU7/s320/IMG_8098.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>My Johor Stories in Downtown Johor Baru</i><br />visit to the photo studio in February 2023<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Modern wedding packages that
included photography at exciting destinations and the invention of good cameras
on smartphones, have gradually eliminated the traditional services of photo
studios to mark births, graduations and weddings.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The photo studio was also an
essential part of life because it was where people went to get portrait shots
of themselves to apply for passports or visas, bus passes or other similar
permits which required visual proof of the holder.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">These photo requirements varied
so the traditional photo studio provided a small kiosk equipped with powder and
comb to improve one’s looks as well as songkok, neckties, blazer or jacket to
be properly dressed for their official photos.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMhDX3np7_9PsXXZr0bUXXhLpq1biYHjl6YY3TmLIRfb7-MyquEPvET-TBhmhFHHbyxpwgi9eOG01mTfaaXXdEhDp0FT8NsQxe7tOilmh7qf92fUF9ic3gjmuQvpNUSThwRRpAH5XKiyyQjyLjRZURP4weCKsICkpyHIUK3MHG_WI8o7Qs6LpS3uBg/s1276/PHOTO-2024-01-11-13-40-28.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1276" data-original-width="954" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMhDX3np7_9PsXXZr0bUXXhLpq1biYHjl6YY3TmLIRfb7-MyquEPvET-TBhmhFHHbyxpwgi9eOG01mTfaaXXdEhDp0FT8NsQxe7tOilmh7qf92fUF9ic3gjmuQvpNUSThwRRpAH5XKiyyQjyLjRZURP4weCKsICkpyHIUK3MHG_WI8o7Qs6LpS3uBg/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-11-13-40-28.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Heritage Walk in January 2024,<br />less photos on the walls of the studio<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Now people no longer needed to
submit portrait photos of themselves for passport applications because the
Immigration Department is equipped with photography equipment to take photos of
applicants during the application in the department.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Similarly, visas may now be conveniently
applied online and applicants will submit digital photos of themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">With wider use of digital
documents in a paperless environment, the services of traditional photo studios
are no longer required.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Traditional photo studios once
provided all these services that we no longer require so it was only a matter
of time before the photo studios ceased to be relevant.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">So it was a privilege to look at
the ancient shutter cameras and the décor inside the vintage photo studio, and
capture our photo mementoes of this sunset trade.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Before we left the studio, I had
a word with Kok Choy who confirmed that the Johore Heng Photo Studio will
remain open, maybe up to April this year, before they closed permanently. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgLM-RT42aOlHJFrDhQcWMrz-8MhviQwPZlNvS7fs5EhAbh-014ZJazvMhxn2wNmzxpnASuqR-ZIjMwS8vvx1YeLLI_X98UPCch9BfChEb6rs8KjB47X-iZcj1L2pAF1W8xsLg78gl5FneEV9X2VUVxXy5Rem_bOqEM8IwslJzpw83EIvFq6u4Tn8/s1280/PHOTO-2024-01-11-15-09-22.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgLM-RT42aOlHJFrDhQcWMrz-8MhviQwPZlNvS7fs5EhAbh-014ZJazvMhxn2wNmzxpnASuqR-ZIjMwS8vvx1YeLLI_X98UPCch9BfChEb6rs8KjB47X-iZcj1L2pAF1W8xsLg78gl5FneEV9X2VUVxXy5Rem_bOqEM8IwslJzpw83EIvFq6u4Tn8/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-11-15-09-22.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Chinese character for Double <br />Happiness in the photo studio to<br />capture formal photos with wedding<br /> couples; a photo memento for this<br />Korean couple in our January 2024<br />visit to the vintage photo studio<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then on February 3, I received a message
from Ahmad Fadhli Syed Hassan, <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2019/04/a-passion-to-document-johor-royalty.html">a fellow author who has a passion to document stories on members of the Johor royal family</a>.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">He was on a quest to uncover
information on the monuments that commemorated the Diamond Jubilee year of the
rule of Sultan Sir Ibrahim (topped by a crown) and shared with me a Black &
White photo of the other Johor monument (topped by a star and crescent) – the Tanjong
Puteri Monument - with two small boys in front.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">He also shared with me photos of
the sites for these two monuments along with a postcard printed with the
monument. [This will be for a separate story.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Ahmad Fadhli told me that he just
visited the Johore Heng Photo Studio and learnt that it will be closing for good,
very soon.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I referred to the Black &
White photo of the Tanjong Puteri Monument with the two small boys in front and
asked Ahmad Fadhli, “Do you know who these boys are?”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">He replied with, “Tengku Tarmizi
told me it’s Mr Heng’s photo.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdv8F3D-nJncW5zTq85HWZBKYrZ90WcVOX5fXmWjEAKfimkINY5qkOMA2d1-MVWanbLyKZeUQrULa9n9mRVq3thrIvAAK1rxV8rPXIgI_4hRH4FTf3jvuTK4NyZ2hjDcALo-Sxl1fMCUY6kf5iGZTmxRtq1ZMp0zmpqHGUb2T3xQKoPgOf9PbQtP5D/s1401/PHOTO-2024-02-03-08-55-49.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1401" data-original-width="1076" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdv8F3D-nJncW5zTq85HWZBKYrZ90WcVOX5fXmWjEAKfimkINY5qkOMA2d1-MVWanbLyKZeUQrULa9n9mRVq3thrIvAAK1rxV8rPXIgI_4hRH4FTf3jvuTK4NyZ2hjDcALo-Sxl1fMCUY6kf5iGZTmxRtq1ZMp0zmpqHGUb2T3xQKoPgOf9PbQtP5D/s320/PHOTO-2024-02-03-08-55-49.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The two boys in front of the<br />Tanjong Puteri Monument<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">In response, I told him that this
old photo did indeed come from that vintage photo studio but… I was asking
about the two boys.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I understand that when Heng
passed away, Liew took over the business and maintained the studio’s
established name and reputation. When Liew went out on photography assignments,
his sons Ah Lek and Kok Choy, often went along and they not only observed how
their father captured precious moments on film, they were also the subjects he
photographed.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">In 1964, Ah Lek joined his father
to work in the photo studio and younger brother, Kok Choy also joined the business.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I asked Ahmad Fadhli if he saw the
two brothers at the photo studio when he dropped by to talk to them about those
monuments, and he replied, “Yes!” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">When I told Ahmad Fadhli that the two boys
in the old photo with that monument were the Liew brothers, Ah Lek and Kok Choy,
his response was an exclamation, “Wahhh!” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-57168993587512163122024-02-07T16:13:00.000+08:002024-02-07T16:13:04.752+08:00Chinese New Year is here again!<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">We
seemed to have lost two years to the lockdowns due to the global pandemic
but in the past few years, Chinese New Year celebrations returned with a vengeance and
for many, it was a major celebration to make up for lost time with family and
friends.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfifWncFA9TOzf8DWwRyZGoslQu_cn0U8NZshwMmMw2U59eQMqRwbq54hZFmi5YXiX1GVR1RFi49ty_fHYaVwKhTbH6Mq0-An_30fWJ-RQTW00QqRXj2tnJ5mO4at14x7nv1ahggfCKbNzoY26NOl7UomFxqIDlylNhYaGDLNiKyCvacwGpSuUx2R/s3885/IMG_3916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2408" data-original-width="3885" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfifWncFA9TOzf8DWwRyZGoslQu_cn0U8NZshwMmMw2U59eQMqRwbq54hZFmi5YXiX1GVR1RFi49ty_fHYaVwKhTbH6Mq0-An_30fWJ-RQTW00QqRXj2tnJ5mO4at14x7nv1ahggfCKbNzoY26NOl7UomFxqIDlylNhYaGDLNiKyCvacwGpSuUx2R/s320/IMG_3916.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chinese New Year meet-up with our immediate<br />family members in the UK, Australia and Kuala<br />Lumpur with us in Johor Baru via Zoom in 2021<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Now
as the Chinese prepare to usher in the Lunar New Year of the Dragon, the
celebrations seemed to be gearing up for events celebrated in an even grander
scale.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">After
the lockdowns and enforced separations, what matters most for my family, my friends
and I, is the privilege to meet-up in person again.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Travel
plans are in place for journeys home to a Reunion dinner planned for the eve of
the lunar new year – a very important event – especially after the years of
uncertainty due to the global pandemic.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Plans
are also afoot for a group of Johor girls who now live in Singapore, to cross
the border by train to Johor for a gathering with us, Johor girls who still
live in Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZfQeETQzk6lEPf8uALvModlSlhEA4bdQO5jO_7isHSDSgeHgICq8wbUMUt7n_L3Ouaw8qebIrdS5LRCAMHGtjT__AJWbw0uGrkiuBbliBxow_-2yPQp1AeM-gSoBzao7ynkE-2oUBtoEJbHrpgdpq0MYScGqqn8ithp0ZxE2xUV_OsGsud6Kwv0o2/s3797/IMG_1383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2998" data-original-width="3797" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZfQeETQzk6lEPf8uALvModlSlhEA4bdQO5jO_7isHSDSgeHgICq8wbUMUt7n_L3Ouaw8qebIrdS5LRCAMHGtjT__AJWbw0uGrkiuBbliBxow_-2yPQp1AeM-gSoBzao7ynkE-2oUBtoEJbHrpgdpq0MYScGqqn8ithp0ZxE2xUV_OsGsud6Kwv0o2/s320/IMG_1383.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chinese New Year goodies to enjoy<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">While
the elderly in our families are advancing in age, plans are now changed to
accommodate their needs. So instead of dining out in restaurants and hotels,
meals are arranged comfortably at home for the convenience of the seniors.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Since
the lockdown years, restaurants have accommodated takeaways of not only dishes
but entire banquet menus. While most restaurants have reverted to dine-in
arrangements, many still offer takeaway options.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the days ahead of the dawn of the new lunar year or Spring Festival,
traditional Chinese families have much to do at home with a major project for
decluttering, also known as Spring Cleaning.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Homes,
particularly those which are expecting visitors, will do everything to spruce
up the porch and living room with festive decorations and fresh flowers – or
artificial blossoms – whichever works to enhance the space.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEboZhv6I0IsJhMChxlGUqC4lgtJjjS-i6W1I4wAmfs9sMp0EmvZlPQHiORVc3pLRZ07EOfL-ci3Q3dxyQzxf_LB08RjzuQn_ZFITABsmQ1xVEBghyphenhyphenYx2-kZKnYpzo5yxlHUCh9u66vV7f0My5R5mbWviCln_NBbYnh5L5LqoQUDJQVNPeLJIAfx0s/s4026/IMG_1208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3016" data-original-width="4026" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEboZhv6I0IsJhMChxlGUqC4lgtJjjS-i6W1I4wAmfs9sMp0EmvZlPQHiORVc3pLRZ07EOfL-ci3Q3dxyQzxf_LB08RjzuQn_ZFITABsmQ1xVEBghyphenhyphenYx2-kZKnYpzo5yxlHUCh9u66vV7f0My5R5mbWviCln_NBbYnh5L5LqoQUDJQVNPeLJIAfx0s/s320/IMG_1208.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical goodies to snack on at Chinese New Year<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Don’t
be surprised that a little touch of Red ribbons tied to a green bamboo plant
can make a difference to an otherwise ordinary room.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Speaking
of Red… Red is an auspicious colour to the Chinese who believe that this bright
would usher in good fortune and prosperity. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Traditional
Chinese will buy “something new” to wear for the new year so the shops and
malls will stock items designed in the colour Red… from dresses, shirts,
T-shirts to underwear for both men and women.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
learnt from my grandmother that women’s underwear was a very private item and
in the olden days, girls and women do not hang their underwear out – even to
dry.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Instead,
the underwear was hung under their beds.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
could picture that because my grandmother’s bed was a traditional Chinese double-bed
designed with a canopy and raised so high that even after its legs were sawn
down, the space below was wide enough for a child to crawl underneath.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Now
when I walk pass the shops that were dedicated to sell women’s underwear, I
cannot help but be distracted by the range of Red bras and panties hung right
up front, a far cry from those days when these mysterious garments were
discreetly kept from view.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Clearly,
there must be a demand for the manufacturers/designers to produce such a large
supply of Red underwear, especially for the lunar new year season.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9387Tr-anTQPsrBFtC09RYFaL1KT2H4DS7xtd4N0zAxignX_Agw-C740v2y1CbdiRLBhlwCf22cAZaeKC8OLQ2Ekw2UQZhQOOcOG5oNw8EeQ37QMFGQS1YR5r4dUragwNkyVWzYZu3ZN5zNQJVSj8Lz6nerf_R1UcMoewfHvR_v_AVrua-M8s-CmS/s4032/IMG_9185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9387Tr-anTQPsrBFtC09RYFaL1KT2H4DS7xtd4N0zAxignX_Agw-C740v2y1CbdiRLBhlwCf22cAZaeKC8OLQ2Ekw2UQZhQOOcOG5oNw8EeQ37QMFGQS1YR5r4dUragwNkyVWzYZu3ZN5zNQJVSj8Lz6nerf_R1UcMoewfHvR_v_AVrua-M8s-CmS/s320/IMG_9185.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cookies designed to celebrate<br />the lunar year of the Rat<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Another
interesting thing that evolved over the years was the embracing of the lunar
calendar which is represented by a string of animals. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
the uninitiated, please take a look at the pages of our traditional <i>kuda </i>calendar
which keeps a record of the lunar calendar in tandem with our Gregorian
calendar.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Because
we will be ushering in the lunar year of the Dragon on February 10, there is a
huge focus on dragon motifs in the mall and street décor, the arrangement of
salad ingredients for the <i>Yee Sang</i> dish, and dragon dance performances
among other dragon-related events.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
fact, an innovative brand has even offered prizes for photos of the most
creatively arranged Yee Sang salad dish in the Dragon theme.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Very
often, traditional Chinese who believe in Chinese astrology, may agree that
those born in the years represented by such animals like, Rat, Rabbit or Horse,
will have similar character traits as those animals. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Consider
how those born in the lunar year of the Ox are supposed to be, “hardworking”
while those born in the year of the Tiger may be “ferocious” so this becomes a
fun topic to discuss during Chinese New Year gatherings.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Among
the traditional festive food for everyone to enjoy during this season are
Mandarin oranges and pineapple tarts. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcDAfBd_ds6-5MdIBFppMXrI4sz1rQpV5H6C2ULB1mruEpw8WAya9_tnlvyCE9GnfACYmmbyJFGWgmiK6IMqnX2jp3JV8BH5tfxTKeGEeLouuFUlfzOp2UDEREnExB802ZfLr6ORJFyBmQ8yld38mF6xoILFOAIWj-Z6l-GEIz8ZS2nR5OFBTbN5l/s4032/IMG_3843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcDAfBd_ds6-5MdIBFppMXrI4sz1rQpV5H6C2ULB1mruEpw8WAya9_tnlvyCE9GnfACYmmbyJFGWgmiK6IMqnX2jp3JV8BH5tfxTKeGEeLouuFUlfzOp2UDEREnExB802ZfLr6ORJFyBmQ8yld38mF6xoILFOAIWj-Z6l-GEIz8ZS2nR5OFBTbN5l/s320/IMG_3843.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A generous pineapple topping on<br />this open tart<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">It
is interesting that the art of making good quality pineapple tarts have been
mastered by various people in our multi-cultural community so this festive
season will see a flurry of baking to meet a demand for the preferred type of
tarts.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">There
is even a wide choice for connoisseurs to choose from a range of tarts made
with a particularly type of pastry or butter and pineapple fillings on open
tarts that are moist and generously topped into a tiny hill or made into rolls
or balls…<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Over
the years, we have seen the introduction of “new products” like deep-fried
slices of arrowroot crisps, crab-stick crisps and fish-skin crisps coated in
salted egg flavour. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
many snacks, love-letters, cookies and crisps are mass produced, there are
still many die-hard connoisseurs who prefer to make-their-own – once a year – to
enjoy and present to family and friends with much pride.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Another
trend we have seen is the addition of familiar snacks like <i>murukku </i>and <i>rempeyek</i>
crisps from the Indian and Malay communities to enjoy along with the many
Chinese New Year goodies.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rzd1oukeZWeAlarLhJzjDtUsFWZIawQl4SrIooAF6tpbCyg9Cqx9o4q3xQUOzVyfIDmGGjHOFYG_9Ja0ajep1ypJU3jXQVjFnEyz9D0gJYf3AJK51qdaJTHznNt5PaiBJMC8ZejXqOfQKkUAUC30smx9VTayfxETj0u6-MMWh2M_fbC2HIc_xQRO/s4032/IMG_1203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rzd1oukeZWeAlarLhJzjDtUsFWZIawQl4SrIooAF6tpbCyg9Cqx9o4q3xQUOzVyfIDmGGjHOFYG_9Ja0ajep1ypJU3jXQVjFnEyz9D0gJYf3AJK51qdaJTHznNt5PaiBJMC8ZejXqOfQKkUAUC30smx9VTayfxETj0u6-MMWh2M_fbC2HIc_xQRO/s320/IMG_1203.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditional <i>Nian Gao</i> or <i>Kueh Bakul</i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">As
hotels and restaurants now serve <i>Halal</i> versions of Chinese festive banquets,
friends in our multi-cultural community have become familiar with Chinese festive
traditions like eating <i>nian gao</i> (Mandarin) or <i>kueh bakul</i>, tossing
<i>Yee Sang</i> salads for better fortune and savouring the high-value
ingredients brewed in the banquet-in-a-basin, <i>poon choy </i>(Cantonese).</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
tradition of nian gao, also called sticky rice cake, is a sweet treat offered
to the Kitchen god in the homes of traditional Chinese families, about a week
before the dawn of the lunar new year.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">According
to beliefs, the Kitchen god would leave for heaven to make his annual report to
the Jade Emperor and this ritual of offering nian gao to the Kitchen god aims
to “seal his lips” so that he would fail to give a poor report about the
family.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1oqcvbLUQ2xP72E_04VBR2PXTweCBWm7fuzN_6Z5F1JrmqIgzwV3bTA6pQl2T6o29T0HUqk6CCquew6-3OoUNIs96Hy_ccW6iYdn2IfHYTf6ikHi6F1211YigzhAQTyARweXoJN4rvYwhCnLyi7uEW4eXqMSIayEf3np483YP-gmRqkfauEBNbSJ/s4032/IMG_3795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1oqcvbLUQ2xP72E_04VBR2PXTweCBWm7fuzN_6Z5F1JrmqIgzwV3bTA6pQl2T6o29T0HUqk6CCquew6-3OoUNIs96Hy_ccW6iYdn2IfHYTf6ikHi6F1211YigzhAQTyARweXoJN4rvYwhCnLyi7uEW4eXqMSIayEf3np483YP-gmRqkfauEBNbSJ/s320/IMG_3795.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red packets designed in shades of orange and pink<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">One
of my favourite Chinese New Year traditions must be the tradition of giving and
receiving <i>lai-see</i> (Cantonese) or fortune money in <i>hong pau </i>or Red
packets. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">My
mother taught us that it was impolite to open the Red packets upon receiving
them so when my sisters and I were dressed to visit our grandparents, we always
carried our own handbags so that we could store away all the Red packets we received.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
Chinese tradition, married people will present Red packets while the singles
may receive for as long as they remained single. While senior folks give Red
packets, they may also receive the same from their children and grandchildren. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Take
a closer look at the designs on Red packets and you will see that they have
become creative artwork that is worth collecting.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Over
the years, I learnt that it was not the contents of the Red packet that
mattered but the warm wishes received from the giver of that Red packet.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGyL4bmFLY_eq99NIeNbdnDUolbwJ6FkDFjvTgOxwcQqMDqJJXIFR5EhYnIQkR-1IQuQhNRsxYJJ304OcQBFL_asvYp4bLAj59-zdFOQ95aFNYmkXS1GolSXiEVivZWHX2Fk9C1hdgrV3G5V9UFM8NTNO9UJUnjPNi4Y65bM9ydGeU1enj9iUn1Q0/s1600/IMG_1471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGyL4bmFLY_eq99NIeNbdnDUolbwJ6FkDFjvTgOxwcQqMDqJJXIFR5EhYnIQkR-1IQuQhNRsxYJJ304OcQBFL_asvYp4bLAj59-zdFOQ95aFNYmkXS1GolSXiEVivZWHX2Fk9C1hdgrV3G5V9UFM8NTNO9UJUnjPNi4Y65bM9ydGeU1enj9iUn1Q0/s320/IMG_1471.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ingredients to top off the <i>Yee Sang</i><br />salad for the prosperity toss<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Another
sad reality is the absence of senior members of the family who have passed on,
some quite suddenly during the pandemic years, and missing them especially
during festive gatherings at Chinese New Year.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
most families, the traditions passed down from generation to generation, continue
as families make new traditions together. But for some, their traditions ended
with the passing of the family patriarch or matriarch.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">We
cannot see into the future but one thing is for sure: we do not know if we will
meet the senior family members again at the next Chinese New Year. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">So
as we countdown to the dawn of the lunar year of the Dragon, let us treasure
our traditions and the privilege to meet-up in person.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Xin Nian Kwai Ler</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> (Mandarin) or Happy Chinese New Year, everyone and let
us make the most of our time together this festive season.</span> </p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-69099976453571398972024-02-02T13:28:00.000+08:002024-02-02T13:28:33.273+08:00Meldrum Buffet Bonanza promo at GBW Hotel<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">From
the lobby of the GBW Hotel, a spiral staircase leads up to the D’Mezzanine
Restaurant, so named because the restaurant is designed on the mezzanine floor,
complete with a covered outdoor terrace.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkbnGDzhL87tCFfjeBlReZf7ULIroj3GrD0mStVlZzTjOyH2_yt2iZChHpfZ236z1QkgAtNogJ8P2aUH9yyNZ4jhlumBXxgKB5ah3uK-m9jX3qVFXtB58Uc-LmVfM3oXTAkkBTxnoVfLPaOxBbo_w_YriRLEuLM8Qmm-CFkxSHKHbAjJhVD6ZfUQ5/s720/IMG_0489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLkbnGDzhL87tCFfjeBlReZf7ULIroj3GrD0mStVlZzTjOyH2_yt2iZChHpfZ236z1QkgAtNogJ8P2aUH9yyNZ4jhlumBXxgKB5ah3uK-m9jX3qVFXtB58Uc-LmVfM3oXTAkkBTxnoVfLPaOxBbo_w_YriRLEuLM8Qmm-CFkxSHKHbAjJhVD6ZfUQ5/s320/IMG_0489.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A section of the buffet spread in the<br />Meldrum Buffet Bonanza at D'Mezzanine<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">This
terrace overlooks Jalan Bukit Meldrum, the route of the soon-to-be-ready Rapid
Transit System (RTS) that will link Johor Baru with neighbouring Singapore by a
six-minute ride across the Straits of Johor.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When
I stepped out to the terrace, I paused to take in the panoramic view of the
construction in rapid progress to meet the schedule to be completed by end 2026.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When
I looked at the live cooking stations arranged here, my eyes zeroed in on the
grill where rows of rotisserie chicken were rotating automatically over
charcoal embers.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITbQ_YZsMTwCHiKG7rV5r9dMRzI2tJXH5FeVCv8Ja6Oqdjh5QdiN867Yj5mbo_YEORPgK_IkHWFDWgZ4bcFbDUCDi0tVs7nzJOKA9_1Dc9uj0Nb-CjYSHMoE9kEdD96xMw1l0qRzD-Is9xLm0Zg4yhX5SVTJf1qHVXYqLtSCgm5fsu8wI2yRbOAzU/s3962/IMG_1538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3962" data-original-width="2928" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITbQ_YZsMTwCHiKG7rV5r9dMRzI2tJXH5FeVCv8Ja6Oqdjh5QdiN867Yj5mbo_YEORPgK_IkHWFDWgZ4bcFbDUCDi0tVs7nzJOKA9_1Dc9uj0Nb-CjYSHMoE9kEdD96xMw1l0qRzD-Is9xLm0Zg4yhX5SVTJf1qHVXYqLtSCgm5fsu8wI2yRbOAzU/s320/IMG_1538.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adding a layer of honey to the<br />glazed chickens on the grill<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">As
I watched the chef adding a final layer of honey to glaze the whole chickens, I
was pleased to learn that this is the latest addition to the buffet dinner menu
at D’Mezzanine Restaurant.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">While
the rotisserie chicken was served with a choice of sauces: Thai chilli sauce,
Blackpepper sauce and <i>Percik</i> sauce, I was pleased that this freshly
grilled chicken was tasty by itself so I enjoyed it without topping with any
sauce. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
other cooking stations at the terrace prepared freshly made Fried Rice and
Cantonese-style <i>kway teow</i> or flat rice noodles.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">A
glance around the restaurant indicated that – by comparison with other hotel
restaurants – this was a smaller buffet spread but it is all good for me. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6gLR6OdVTnfGBYXrtjKf08Gckvm7jVSNq3cq3sUZY6iqVS1V0VDheebnMDnif7rH38lQApfOqqMhRYl017jS7vMISU63Ro-fQ43UldxqIASktOllNXEQX5t7A6lS617ywWMrdZflOPuAAXAm4EVGPdR3mEm_MrRSnXl_1b2aj79GSrLFL5U6o6c4/s3920/IMG_1540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3920" data-original-width="2870" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6gLR6OdVTnfGBYXrtjKf08Gckvm7jVSNq3cq3sUZY6iqVS1V0VDheebnMDnif7rH38lQApfOqqMhRYl017jS7vMISU63Ro-fQ43UldxqIASktOllNXEQX5t7A6lS617ywWMrdZflOPuAAXAm4EVGPdR3mEm_MrRSnXl_1b2aj79GSrLFL5U6o6c4/s320/IMG_1540.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshly grilled honey glazed <br />chicken being chopped up to serve<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">This
is because I would rather enjoy a smaller menu of items that are good than a
wide menu where the menu items were just average.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I
thought that this buffet spread was ideal for small group gatherings and in
this promotion, group reservations of 15 diners and more will receive a ½ kg
cake for <b>Free</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">An
added attraction for this buffet spread is the promo deal of one diner eats for
<b>Free </b>with seven adult diners.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I
liked the local salads served with a choice of appetizing spicy sauces like <i>cincalok</i>,
and chopped chillies in<i> kicap hitam</i> or dark soy sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBiUjP4onW-7bvEkuXgBI7_TuR6X_Kp59soCVueA7oBh_4EnPHVqUPYBr_5MCLrHoL2KaMmQZySVs1vydeq1kLCq-P-K5SsvnYb8zy9YnwqGucYKImldd09wv8mhh0XzS40xG_eQGRe2OICOLphRSeXy3AClcXDD8yBipuwGxXg7Iwk-GyIgbdmvUP/s720/IMG_0477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="720" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBiUjP4onW-7bvEkuXgBI7_TuR6X_Kp59soCVueA7oBh_4EnPHVqUPYBr_5MCLrHoL2KaMmQZySVs1vydeq1kLCq-P-K5SsvnYb8zy9YnwqGucYKImldd09wv8mhh0XzS40xG_eQGRe2OICOLphRSeXy3AClcXDD8yBipuwGxXg7Iwk-GyIgbdmvUP/s320/IMG_0477.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A platter of local vegetables to make own salads<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">There
was also a spread of savory condiments to enjoy with comforting Chicken Rice
Porridge as well as Mushroom Soup and <i>Sup Kambing Berempah</i>, a rich brew
of lamb soup.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In
addition to the Do-It-Yourself Mee Rebus stall, there were dishes in the hot
buffet that included Buttermilk Prawns, <i>Sambal Sotong</i> (squid), Lamb Stew,
Beef Lagsana and the ever popular, spicy Korean Chicken pieces. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Another
Do-It-Yourself station was for diners to pick their choice of cut fruits and
vegetables to drizzle with peanut sauce to create their own <i>rojak</i> mix.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2qUBohMGfyQauxNMNgoJTO-usiUgQgI_Ytg1C1eYqj1uh3sThlU1PplpyWvQS0F2DNPdKp6QG6IENLc7Pvz5cO9qM_liDXgsgPeaQOOSuc_yNgarS1jO-mVlL6ytAz3mDIOqTRcwhbW9GfTDJbUanG3or0coB5zfoT8GULtj3JeA66_jj36hETbl/s720/IMG_0475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2qUBohMGfyQauxNMNgoJTO-usiUgQgI_Ytg1C1eYqj1uh3sThlU1PplpyWvQS0F2DNPdKp6QG6IENLc7Pvz5cO9qM_liDXgsgPeaQOOSuc_yNgarS1jO-mVlL6ytAz3mDIOqTRcwhbW9GfTDJbUanG3or0coB5zfoT8GULtj3JeA66_jj36hETbl/s320/IMG_0475.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A serving of Korean spicy chicken<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>There
was something for everyone from the range of appetizers to the cut local fresh
fruits and desserts of cakes and local kueh, as well as scoops of ice-cream to
enjoy on crispy wafer cones.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">During
our leisurely dinner, the piped-in music was suddenly interrupted by the
familiar tune for the Birthday song, so we paused to join in the singing and watched
a cake being served to the birthday girl at the next table.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
convivial mood continued as the birthday girl brought slices of her birthday
cake to share with us and to diners at other tables in the restaurant.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 106%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7Q8xQIDMlITCyinW0rORgemvkKO1wCO1ByL6AYqrUV2qevL9MZVZJZ3It-ySfJDJh0pnj_OhBnjDCP6WKl8jOOzVo7WwCk5HK-RLipNPlBkgEboqNO2_tWBErWP6r3p-1sJTHO1bGasSJ1Psf5l_yW8DihzUJgzQwdXk2f6XT1N_N87ssEuRR8ZC/s710/IMG_0494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="710" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7Q8xQIDMlITCyinW0rORgemvkKO1wCO1ByL6AYqrUV2qevL9MZVZJZ3It-ySfJDJh0pnj_OhBnjDCP6WKl8jOOzVo7WwCk5HK-RLipNPlBkgEboqNO2_tWBErWP6r3p-1sJTHO1bGasSJ1Psf5l_yW8DihzUJgzQwdXk2f6XT1N_N87ssEuRR8ZC/s320/IMG_0494.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A portion of freshly made Cantonese <i>kway teow</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Advance
reservations are recommended for the <b>Meldrum Buffet Bonanza</b>, on now for
lunch and dinner till 10 March 2024.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">Enjoy
promotional deals of <b>½ kg cake for 15 diners and above</b>, and <b>one diner
eats for Free with seven adult diners</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">For <b>lunch
daily from 12pm to 2.30pm</b> at RM48 per Adult, RM38 per Senior Citizens and
RM28 per Child.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">For <b>dinner
only on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 6.30pm to 9.30pm</b> at RM58 per
Adult, RM48 per Senior Citizens and RM38 per Child.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">For
reservations, Tel: 016 - 710 0048, 016 - 723 3558 and 016 - 710 0073 or email
to: info@gbwhotel.com.my<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">D’Mezzanine
Restaurant, is on the mezzanine floor of the GBW Hotel located at No. 9R Jalan Bukit
Meldrum, 80300 Johor Baru, Johor. <o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-63875308491359874322024-01-31T14:40:00.019+08:002024-01-31T17:07:14.941+08:00My Johor Stories featured on BFM Radio<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">It all started from a message I
received on January 22 that read like this:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAaQNLdbZ9K2uGSWmmabduAxp5N8PF-SnTlUYm2Dl9-UBFggvud-LuGOwjWbC-jd-w1BYrRJ0R-XJ_CGMbjW4o7jtxapLVeKkuvSZkPw88kbTNwK-Rv8Q_3Z3q7qow6q9C_GcEtVX6Zs2x8lje3tBXiKpRnzRPsx516iZoosEe32HG6cxXH9EPKkzi/s1152/PHOTO-2024-01-29-17-35-51%20(1).jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAaQNLdbZ9K2uGSWmmabduAxp5N8PF-SnTlUYm2Dl9-UBFggvud-LuGOwjWbC-jd-w1BYrRJ0R-XJ_CGMbjW4o7jtxapLVeKkuvSZkPw88kbTNwK-Rv8Q_3Z3q7qow6q9C_GcEtVX6Zs2x8lje3tBXiKpRnzRPsx516iZoosEe32HG6cxXH9EPKkzi/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-29-17-35-51%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juliet Jacobs in action recording our interview<br />for BFM Radio programme, <i>Live & Learn</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Hi Peggy, my name is Juliet
Jacobs and I’m a producer/presenter with the radio station BFM89.9.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">My colleague, Sharaad Kuttan,
formerly of Astro Awani, passed your number to me…”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">She continued: “I was hoping to
chat with you about <i>My Johor Stories</i>, for a radio interview on one of
the segments I host called, <i>Live & Learn</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We are doing coverage on the
coronation of the Johor Sultan as the new Agong, and thought it might be nice
to talk about Johor, its history and share some stories on the state, in
conjunction with the coronation.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3EsQkY7u0KKRo0-LINHHOvYNpKzZ_xYIoHuuWhPP_VMVJN6w47OUV0NxNpLQx4ECkCyGEBdaQR5QPJdXbafIuAG0rUum6RqNmpdYF0g8hLngLb7596hSLlqxmXaMFainsq30TaLLkAzZ19hofzFf7B2kWVE89ynAEe4lhw8VWxzQPXXXWtvo0I6o9/s617/PHOTO-2024-01-30-10-53-12.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="617" data-original-width="617" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3EsQkY7u0KKRo0-LINHHOvYNpKzZ_xYIoHuuWhPP_VMVJN6w47OUV0NxNpLQx4ECkCyGEBdaQR5QPJdXbafIuAG0rUum6RqNmpdYF0g8hLngLb7596hSLlqxmXaMFainsq30TaLLkAzZ19hofzFf7B2kWVE89ynAEe4lhw8VWxzQPXXXWtvo0I6o9/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-30-10-53-12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logo for BFM Radio on 89.9 FM frequency<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">As I read her message, my
thoughts flashed to the meet-up with <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2022/03/my-johor-stories-on-astro-awani.html">Sharaad who came to Johor Baru to cover the Johor Elections in 2022</a>. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">With all eyes on Johor for the
Elections, he also wanted to talk to Johoreans to share more about social and
environmental issues as well as culture and heritage.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">This was why he got connected to <i>My
Johor Stories</i> to do an interview with me for the English TV programme, <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2022/04/my-johor-stories-featured-in-lets-talk.html"><i>Let’s
Talk</i>, that was aired on Astro Awani in April 2022</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Due to the global pandemic, mask-wearing
was still mandatory so Sharaad and I were both wearing masks for this show. It
was a pity because viewers probably saw the cover designs of My Johor Stories
books more clearly than my face.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4g9qt3I82ZbRySQ7ahSuayAoKlnMxXNvH1JV33ntCglnxBnrihlI1-V5Re5RvXmeVO1bFPmb1KYYC-dgQDhwgTnwOCKFf4TDI-pyhlU05YBwxJVIBoLnCR6sVrMmAbBGST4muk41BR50YLqIk7VlRsZLULMkDpYMgpVpsx_8I2ceJEhNv282CK4Vy/s2592/IMG_0019.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1936" data-original-width="2592" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4g9qt3I82ZbRySQ7ahSuayAoKlnMxXNvH1JV33ntCglnxBnrihlI1-V5Re5RvXmeVO1bFPmb1KYYC-dgQDhwgTnwOCKFf4TDI-pyhlU05YBwxJVIBoLnCR6sVrMmAbBGST4muk41BR50YLqIk7VlRsZLULMkDpYMgpVpsx_8I2ceJEhNv282CK4Vy/s320/IMG_0019.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My view of the screen in our Zoom meet-up<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">At that time, I was still working
on the manuscript for the third and final instalment of My Johor Stories, so
when Juliet of BFM Radio reached out to me, I thought that it was timely to
share more about Johor at such a significant moment in Johor history.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Later I thanked Sharaad for
introducing me and My Johor Stories to his colleague and his encouraging reply
read like this: “It was such a pleasure interviewing you that I had to share
the experience with Juliet.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">When he told me that Juliet was
also Johorean and who studied at the Johor Baru Convent School, it was good to
know that we shared the same alma mater in Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYksxz8o6nF5UzSvwN9OFeL3ZGcAbkKS3x4dca8kNRBOQdeGNFLmkA17X2o46Q2-tJO_4cG2L6dUJDaKd3VCsInGWCYAufQlEB6u4TJMeHIYLGio-tayAcopktJ3rtCN-tHklmMK5mWoq7A_EOR5BgVuwfvi70Oojdn3HQJ5FLZhv4ckrKROiDowu/s1156/PHOTO-2024-01-29-17-35-50.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="868" data-original-width="1156" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYksxz8o6nF5UzSvwN9OFeL3ZGcAbkKS3x4dca8kNRBOQdeGNFLmkA17X2o46Q2-tJO_4cG2L6dUJDaKd3VCsInGWCYAufQlEB6u4TJMeHIYLGio-tayAcopktJ3rtCN-tHklmMK5mWoq7A_EOR5BgVuwfvi70Oojdn3HQJ5FLZhv4ckrKROiDowu/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-29-17-35-50.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juliet Jacobs made me feel comfortable <br />in our online interview<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Even though BFM Radio is not
broadcast nationwide but limited only to the Klang Valley for listeners to tune
into the 89.9 FM frequency, I am familiar with BFM Radio.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">This is because <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2018/03/celebrating-women-our-very-own-sylvia-ng.html">BFM Radio produced a video that featured our Aunty Sylvia, a National and International sports personality</a>, to commemorate International Women’s Day in 2o18.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I replied Juliet’s message with a
request for more information about this interview and was pleased to learn that
it will be pre-recorded, ready for broadcast later.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Juliet then prepared some
questions and a framework to share with me, to let me prepare my replies.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPoj2mkD7BbboOWBIz__YVCty_gV6OdNlUK3mx40KVcZZDAwhHWS-vh9N2uLS-l6qPi6kG_xwyCWjqWovaXm_kXq67090dWBZeIs0wDDawRYmaelTIatF0j0HRbHHr2fO092xEX8abpzzZ6ma-fIvCJcoMuwvo4hvH-I8IGje4jvEJE1rjYc6QAyH/s1600/PHOTO-2024-01-29-17-36-30.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="898" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPoj2mkD7BbboOWBIz__YVCty_gV6OdNlUK3mx40KVcZZDAwhHWS-vh9N2uLS-l6qPi6kG_xwyCWjqWovaXm_kXq67090dWBZeIs0wDDawRYmaelTIatF0j0HRbHHr2fO092xEX8abpzzZ6ma-fIvCJcoMuwvo4hvH-I8IGje4jvEJE1rjYc6QAyH/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-29-17-36-30.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the screen at BFM Radio<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When I received her list of
questions, I scrolled down and took a deep breath when I saw that she had given
me 22 questions, some of which were two-part questions. Whew!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Many of her questions were
inter-related and quite broad, deliberately kept open for me to elaborate and
share what I liked best. This meant that we probably would not be able to cover
every single question on her list. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Keen to start on my prep work, I
quickly replied with thanks and asked Juliet to tell me which questions on her
list that she most wanted me to answer so that I may focus on those.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Her prompt reply was, “I want to
ask you EVERYTHING.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">With more time, I could certainly
answer everything too but I knew that the time allocated for her Live &
Learn show, was limited.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Then she continued more seriously
with: “OK let me whittle it down.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Juliet said that there was about
48 minutes in total for the whole interview so we had to squeeze everything
into that space of time.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">When she managed to whittle the
number down to 15 questions, I reviewed each question and saw that we could
combine some of the replies quite comfortably.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We also arranged an appointment
on Monday, January 29 for a chat via Zoom to record the interview for the
recording to be broadcast on Tuesday, January 30, at 3pm, a day ahead of the
coronation of the Johor Sultan as the next Agong.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">As I pondered over my replies to
the questions, I felt deeply humbled for such a privilege to talk about Johor
culture and heritage in relation to the Johor Sultanate and its royal legacy in
Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Readers who are familiar with My
Johor Stories, know that I started sharing my stories on Johor culture and
heritage, first published in the <i>Travel Times</i>, a pull-out section of The
New Straits Times dedicated to Travel. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Then my stories were also
published in <i>Johor Streets</i>, the Southern section of this newspapers, along
with opinion pieces from the column called, <i>Your Johor Stories</i>, which
readers fondly called, my <i>grandfather stories</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Over the years, I accumulated a
collection of Johor stories that were well-accepted by readers. Looking back, it was indeed a combination of circumstances that developed organically and resulted in the birth of the My Johor Stories series of books.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">This, plus opportunities given to me, the support of readers and the collection of my dad's old photos, that encouraged me to publish My Johor Stories.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">No one expected it, least of all
me, that when <i>My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People, Rich Heritage </i>was
launched on 15 July 2017, this title went to the Number One spot of the MPH
Non-Fiction Bestsellers list on the first week of its launch.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">This book stayed on the MPH
Non-Fiction Bestsellers list for consecutive weeks and months, and by December,
my book was counted among <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2017/12/my-johor-stories-year-end-excitement.html">The Best of MPH 2017</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtGDnV_zzanUD-qeka7tVwxCurkwN1L5Vqd3e4sPQGVbANQaP9Me-1rZq1VScV30stknpa3wOX_L8nAUA5gTPMLBZ_cQaiiRj3ITYm2QsXFFMxsnvbeJppwsOdhuabu9_IBa6Q2F0SOnRa-EySYWuwTv2ose4Yb-SAtLnVsjBpU0f1eOmIJ22DpCl/s658/IMG_4345%20(2).jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="511" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNtGDnV_zzanUD-qeka7tVwxCurkwN1L5Vqd3e4sPQGVbANQaP9Me-1rZq1VScV30stknpa3wOX_L8nAUA5gTPMLBZ_cQaiiRj3ITYm2QsXFFMxsnvbeJppwsOdhuabu9_IBa6Q2F0SOnRa-EySYWuwTv2ose4Yb-SAtLnVsjBpU0f1eOmIJ22DpCl/s320/IMG_4345%20(2).jpg" width="249" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from 24 November 2018,<br />a screenshot from Instagram<br /> </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">A book sequel, <i>My Johor
Stories 2: Interesting Places and Inspirational People</i>, followed in 2018
and to me, the most significant moment happened on November 24.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">As you may know, His Majesty
Sultan Ibrahim has a tradition of building bonds with his <i>rakyat</i> through
an annual <i>Kembara Mahkota</i> tour, since he was Crown Prince, to visit
various districts in Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The 2018 Kembara Mahkota happened
to coincide with His Majesty’s birthday and during an event in Muar, District
Officers presented His Majesty with birthday gifts.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">My sister-in-law, who follows the
Official Sultan Ibrahim Instagram page on social media, shared with me a
photograph with info which showed His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim holding a
copy of my book, <i>My Johor Stories 2: Interesting Places and Inspirational
People</i>!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The contents of this book
included stories on Heritage Traders who are still doing the businesses started
by their forefathers as well as stories about inspirational people in various
districts in Johor like Muar, Batu Pahat, Kluang, Kulai, Kelapa Sawit, Desaru
and Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Needless to say, I was thrilled
to see that my book had literally reached the hands of His Majesty the Sultan
of Johor, among the many birthday gifts he received.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWe1s6oo9i8VY16jyR64ePZISjyLcyuiE46aMsTBtGT4v0mB670gWNzfSwbDaedEqPATiYwUIzykYZG55CDMgKQJMjZ2RbFjCkY6IxkslOLNRdjXwS5tqZlzfZ-mYeUaIW1ayS6J_Sx_6sNc9BKZl-4n1DzdxdFQKo0Lcs5Sp9z59pPY_cryf3o65/s1020/a3c8dc47-f54c-43ce-ba39-e648f6fa1261.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1020" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWe1s6oo9i8VY16jyR64ePZISjyLcyuiE46aMsTBtGT4v0mB670gWNzfSwbDaedEqPATiYwUIzykYZG55CDMgKQJMjZ2RbFjCkY6IxkslOLNRdjXwS5tqZlzfZ-mYeUaIW1ayS6J_Sx_6sNc9BKZl-4n1DzdxdFQKo0Lcs5Sp9z59pPY_cryf3o65/s320/a3c8dc47-f54c-43ce-ba39-e648f6fa1261.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trilogy of <i>My Johor Stories</i><br />published by MPH Publishing Kuala Lumpur<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Meanwhile, I know that a copy of
my <i>My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People, Rich Heritage</i>, was
presented to Her Majesty Permaisuri Johor, soon after the book was launched in
2017.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">And at an event in November 2023,
the complete trilogy of My Johor Stories, along with the final instalment of <i>My
Johor Stories 3: Proudly Johor, Then and Now</i>, was presented to the Johor
Princess, </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Tunku Tun Aminah Sultan
Ibrahim.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">My appointment with Juliet via
Zoom went on smoothly but I guessed she could not have anticipated the bulk of
information that I was about to share with her listeners.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We knew that it was virtually
impossible to share the wealth of Johor culture and heritage in such a short
time together, so we did our best to cover as much as possible and touched on a
few topics that were close to my heart.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Juliet opened the interview with
a brief introduction like this: <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">“<i>Author Peggy Loh, who has
written extensively about Johor through her My Johor Stories series, which
include personal accounts of her own family life, but also stories of former
and current personalities who have left their own mark in Johor</i>.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The old idiom that, <i>Time flies
when you are having fun</i>, certainly rang true for Juliet and I. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We chatted on comfortably – had two
commercial breaks – until she indicated that our time together was running out.
Oh dear!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRnL_ICeWSOlJfyh-hNii7a5nDavVQMvtmX2tfWbm8YKWtge3JMR7bnYQBJA4VCuDRd1LuNNFDt_3x15Sk1t0tbZwHjEAE8KR8wj23spYvDIVGOL6HxFEi1Yt36NdZ4XWVHdBA4onStNB68PBqMtY_Mtzdhuh04FnuzlbELblB_btYMhhqgGvPZpnx/s1140/PHOTO-2024-01-29-17-35-51.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="1140" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRnL_ICeWSOlJfyh-hNii7a5nDavVQMvtmX2tfWbm8YKWtge3JMR7bnYQBJA4VCuDRd1LuNNFDt_3x15Sk1t0tbZwHjEAE8KR8wj23spYvDIVGOL6HxFEi1Yt36NdZ4XWVHdBA4onStNB68PBqMtY_Mtzdhuh04FnuzlbELblB_btYMhhqgGvPZpnx/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-29-17-35-51.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the recording studio with Juliet Jacobs<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This, unfortunately, exerted a
bit of pressure on me to rush through the last bit because there was much, more
I wished to share but did not have time to do so.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">It was regretful but I was glad
that I mentioned a few names to credit the people who have helped me with
historical references and resources, and the friends who guided me to learn
about different cultural traditions so that I could write in English.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">According to schedule, on
Tuesday, January 30, at 3pm BFM Radio broadcast the <i>Live & Learn</i> show that
featured My Johor Stories.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Listeners outside the Klang
Valley – like me – tuned in to listen live online at:
https://player.listenlive.co/62201/<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Juliet assured me that once the
interview had aired on radio, a podcast will be available and she will send me
the link once it was ready.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Here is the link for readers’
listening pleasure:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.bfm.my/podcast/bigger-picture/live-and-learn/a-walk-down-johors-memory-lane" style="background-color: white; color: #196ad4; outline: none !important;" target="_blank">https://www.bfm.my/podcast/bigger-picture/live-and-learn/a-walk-down-johors-memory-lane</a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Thank you, Juliet Jacobs, for the
privilege to share <i>My Johor Stories</i> with BFM Radio listeners in
conjunction with the coronation of the Johor Sultan as Agong.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Note:</span></u></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> While
all the MPH bookstores in Johor Baru are now closed, <i>My Johor Stories</i> books
in hardcover and softcover versions, are available from MPH bookstores
nationwide and online from mphonline.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">With
permission from MPH, a small stock of My Johor Stories books is available from
two (2) outlets in Johor Baru:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 25.8pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 25.8pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">1] Johor Area Rehabilitation Organisation or JARO, at
No. 18 Jalan Sungai Chat, Sri Gelam, 80100 Johor Baru, Johor. Open from 8.30am
to 4.30pm. Closed on Friday and Saturday.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 25.8pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 25.8pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">2] YSpace Johor Baru, located at No. 2 Jalan Yahya
Awal, 80100 Johor Baru, Johor. Open 11am to 10pm. Closed on Thursday. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 25.8pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-8819529618537539172024-01-25T17:37:00.000+08:002024-01-25T17:37:21.966+08:00Tiong Nam Hospitality hosts Appreciation event<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It was my pleasure to, once
again, accept the invitation to a pre-Chinese New Year celebration in a joint
Media and Corporate Appreciation event hosted by Tiong Nam Hospitality.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaxwmEDiR5bDpJ_a2_MnTN8z3TTKo9ZMDijUvqv51p_LChfZ4ijbrTbQ8tbeVYH1rbsziQAou4CSJtrBIIWWpXIMFh246-WrmXm-ncpaKeiC4V60SJKNXEQuznbK0RC16QYf1C3ohTMJtlT5L6Wtl5zj-qWfjbZefnxkr7znFVY4v7pFsIP8jDYV9u/s712/IMG_0349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="712" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaxwmEDiR5bDpJ_a2_MnTN8z3TTKo9ZMDijUvqv51p_LChfZ4ijbrTbQ8tbeVYH1rbsziQAou4CSJtrBIIWWpXIMFh246-WrmXm-ncpaKeiC4V60SJKNXEQuznbK0RC16QYf1C3ohTMJtlT5L6Wtl5zj-qWfjbZefnxkr7znFVY4v7pFsIP8jDYV9u/s320/IMG_0349.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chefs in a row [Left to Right] Chef Daniel Lowe,<br />Chef Tock Huey Hock and Chef Koh Chee Chai<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Renowned as a logistics leader,
Tiong Nam started as a small-scale cargo business in 1975 to handle
consolidated cargo for distribution throughout Peninsular Malaysia.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Headquartered in Kempas Baru,
Johor Baru, Tiong Nam embarked on its expansion plan in 1978 and was
incorporated as an enterprise. Their transport business expanded across the
borders to Singapore since 1984 and then to Thailand in 1992. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">After its public listing on the
Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange, Tiong Nam Logistics Holdings expanded further into
a regional network to provide integrated logistics services in seven countries,
customised solutions, property development and then into the hospitality
industry.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXKdDndXL9tg4PvYxMEr0uyyUwMFxlVtyYkMuui15QqAwcPYgzAfFrlId1QgvHMmuGoh59kdiXqvpW1dFScdoQy7xaZepJbPsk9bNiDwSyLhPXdgcWa1WiLFMHNaW1QJgu7uhn7vGWlnwKneiFFgYETwEljamIrDnLDZphyphenhyphenCb889JdoD5tyfdkaGC/s3724/IMG_1465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3724" data-original-width="2906" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXKdDndXL9tg4PvYxMEr0uyyUwMFxlVtyYkMuui15QqAwcPYgzAfFrlId1QgvHMmuGoh59kdiXqvpW1dFScdoQy7xaZepJbPsk9bNiDwSyLhPXdgcWa1WiLFMHNaW1QJgu7uhn7vGWlnwKneiFFgYETwEljamIrDnLDZphyphenhyphenCb889JdoD5tyfdkaGC/s320/IMG_1465.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Menu on our table with a<br />place card for My Johor Stories<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The six brands under Tiong Nam
Hospitality came together at this event to honour partnerships, celebrate
milestones and to showcase the Chinese New Year banquet menu served at Fraser
Place Puteri Harbour this festive season.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">These brands included Fraser
Place Puteri Harbour, Pinetree Marina Resort, Brix KLIA by Pinetree, 1975
Avenue & Hotel, Hard Rock Café Puteri Harbour and Hard Rock Café Ipoh.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Once again, this event was held
at Fraser Place Puteri Harbour, hosted in a banquet hall, lit up by glass
chandeliers designed and arranged as schools of swimming fish.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In keeping with the spirit of
Chinese New Year, the auspicious colour Red, was evident in the charming
costumes worn by team members and guests alike at this appreciation event to
honour media partners and corporate contributors.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3IpCcpL_FFb1svl4oZjcUzBogk1UnHk_WmkWB1Ptm3KMdFyN2ufOF8VeOjjGYn6uOaVNb7E0MjPLDA2unsrvJ10sJ_9BWpbOoJHREmDUO9zhyphenhyphenFkHnSJnLJw7JNPMmqdB5D1QzMfrjKjASKa-jEGy01mToQ_26rk9ziwQTLWBoAsH8wLGDt7BINCu/s720/IMG_0330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3IpCcpL_FFb1svl4oZjcUzBogk1UnHk_WmkWB1Ptm3KMdFyN2ufOF8VeOjjGYn6uOaVNb7E0MjPLDA2unsrvJ10sJ_9BWpbOoJHREmDUO9zhyphenhyphenFkHnSJnLJw7JNPMmqdB5D1QzMfrjKjASKa-jEGy01mToQ_26rk9ziwQTLWBoAsH8wLGDt7BINCu/s320/IMG_0330.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A friendly 'Lion' dancing around the banquet hall<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">It
was good to see Chef Daniel Lowe again as he moved around the banquet hall to
meet guests and stopped by at our table for a chat. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
affable Chef Daniel, who leads the culinary team at Fraser Place Puteri
Harbour, was quick to credit Chinese chefs, Chef Tock Huey Hock and Chef Koh
Chee Chai, who prepared the Chinese banquet which we would enjoy for dinner
that evening.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
Chef Daniel shared juicy “insider information” about the culinary skills of the
Chinese chefs, my anticipation (and expectations!) of the dishes in the banquet
menu, simply went up a few notches.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhGe5Ga9vjqeyget2d3jbNaXtQJh3JlPRSKhMsNCqd3ugxq_f6DxpvVcxTwzORzigNn9T1twoBVOljDxokgfa1CHI3UvtRAyvenhgPPI9JOe5JlMtSvb2O9zrc2tSKM9GuweAVhdgigY7HJTBm6d8A3zXbCvhDXRPP7lvGbeCjW8mQZ-6dWrh_tDo/s720/IMG_0314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhGe5Ga9vjqeyget2d3jbNaXtQJh3JlPRSKhMsNCqd3ugxq_f6DxpvVcxTwzORzigNn9T1twoBVOljDxokgfa1CHI3UvtRAyvenhgPPI9JOe5JlMtSvb2O9zrc2tSKM9GuweAVhdgigY7HJTBm6d8A3zXbCvhDXRPP7lvGbeCjW8mQZ-6dWrh_tDo/s320/IMG_0314.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying a traditional lo-hei or prosperity toss<br />of Salmon <i>Yee Sang </i>as the first dish on our menu<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">As
Chef Daniel discreetly mentioned that Chef Tock, a member of the original
culinary team at Meisan, was handpicked by the Owners to join their team at
Fraser Place, my interest was piqued.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Many
Johoreans like me, fondly recalled the taste of renowned Szechuan and Cantonese
cuisine served at the Meisan Chinese restaurant, then opened in the now defunct
Mutiara Hotel Johor Bahru, so we could hardly wait for the dinner to start.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">During
the Chinese New Year season from January 19 to February 29, the hotel presents
three festive banquet menus for tables of ten diners, dubbed the “Pure Blossom”
menu [RM1,588++], the “Birth of Spring” menu [RM1,888++] and the “Joyous
Empire” menu [RM2,388++].<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdE0ic4RcLsMCGRkAy4CxhWpwiK8D0DU-8vXg2Khze4L3tie1HfUhyphenhyphenDMBiu8fW4yb9rLPrIDNnWy8OjZMQEBepqwStSTUj0zH7hA09xpq8Ro2tXX-n4YJrmRskpVbrA2B5qiUHlAV85VNfAgu8SNEKJqQW_s_31_403icEd_V12pwrxRkh9TQq0wzp/s720/IMG_0353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdE0ic4RcLsMCGRkAy4CxhWpwiK8D0DU-8vXg2Khze4L3tie1HfUhyphenhyphenDMBiu8fW4yb9rLPrIDNnWy8OjZMQEBepqwStSTUj0zH7hA09xpq8Ro2tXX-n4YJrmRskpVbrA2B5qiUHlAV85VNfAgu8SNEKJqQW_s_31_403icEd_V12pwrxRkh9TQq0wzp/s320/IMG_0353.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prosperity <i>Poon Choy</i> that serves eight diners<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
Chinese culinary team has also curated attractive festive menus for a Steamboat
Buffet Reunion Dinner, a Chinese New Year High Tea as well as <i>Yee Sang</i>
salads and <i>Poon Choi</i>, a celebratory banquet traditionally served in a
basin.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
evening’s programme kicked off with music entertainment by <i>Feedback</i> from
the Philippines, the resident band rocking out at the Hard Rock Café Puteri
Harbour.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
thunderous beats of Chinese drums and crashing cymbals signaled the arrival of
a pair of prancing, auspicious Lions to usher in the Lunar Year of the Dragon.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbMqbNK-6D79lDZEHJXd8Egi9xoe4ryTRy97vztIOj89iocvGT6VSpQjfKFeXzhj2a9Tm3fC9f2EdW8FMqewwqSX3bgnzsTfvgF1Lip-5O1v0Og-sMZb_1wYJva-fb-5K9BpVnnSX2s0Sp3FjpCf8WPah_V8wasuNMtR30Zr2Yqbdf_lugP9ZaOQdE/s720/IMG_0320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbMqbNK-6D79lDZEHJXd8Egi9xoe4ryTRy97vztIOj89iocvGT6VSpQjfKFeXzhj2a9Tm3fC9f2EdW8FMqewwqSX3bgnzsTfvgF1Lip-5O1v0Og-sMZb_1wYJva-fb-5K9BpVnnSX2s0Sp3FjpCf8WPah_V8wasuNMtR30Zr2Yqbdf_lugP9ZaOQdE/s320/IMG_0320.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bowls of warm Braised Crab Meat and<br />Fish Lips soup<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">After
Johnny Lau, General Manager of Fraser Place Puteri Harbour received the
traditional auspicious wishes from the Lions, the lion dancers went around the
banquet hall to let guests capture we-fie photos and have a close-up
experience.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
the Chinese New Year tradition, our dinner started with Yee Sang, a salad
topped with slivers of Salmon for the traditional <i>lo-hei</i> or prosperity
toss for good fortune.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNF773XSssUvBTo3fpkvvl2hsI7g-WSKIjOAH5oKo8Zwdm2SzczQ5F2WZMhyphenhyphen_N8wRH72mT1QLMgRo_z8XJzLiTPndcUGVwg-0phMKR2s1iIxmhuJhKL0p3_myBH7DGzauJ7gqVpHajDrj4oWNDj62UWc4_rUXNWW7M_ixPWN_GmQvQVGc1DH9eHra/s674/IMG_0322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="674" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNF773XSssUvBTo3fpkvvl2hsI7g-WSKIjOAH5oKo8Zwdm2SzczQ5F2WZMhyphenhyphen_N8wRH72mT1QLMgRo_z8XJzLiTPndcUGVwg-0phMKR2s1iIxmhuJhKL0p3_myBH7DGzauJ7gqVpHajDrj4oWNDj62UWc4_rUXNWW7M_ixPWN_GmQvQVGc1DH9eHra/s320/IMG_0322.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whole Roasted Chicken with a side of<br />Mongolian sauce<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">After
enjoying a rich, warm bowl of soup filled with Braised Crab Meat and Fish Lips,
the next dish, Roasted Chicken with Mongolian sauce, was served. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
flavour of this Roasted Chicken was reminiscent of Meisan and while it tasted
so good – I could eat it on its own – a drizzle of the Mongolian sauce simply
took its taste up to the next level.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
appetizing Mango Thai sauce that topped the crispy whole Red Snapper had a
generous portion of fresh mango sticks heaped on the fish, enough to encourage
us to do justice to this dish … which was ultimately left in a pile of bones.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSn_irjttzErbCAFL1Ivw7WhlMWyieNirHpmQkpM5fZvAc4t6pZwOPylwErlQB-Ejz_RdrFRUsR78Ve2Fv2-AXTrby7Yk1cudpCk2voyxRFtJgPlQsfkmjeQjaUzpkQa7DPcbKUiRkPSobJ-Gw-tzPuZM2e-7cldGdr-Lgody758Dd7roFh5Gf9f0U/s4032/IMG_1471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSn_irjttzErbCAFL1Ivw7WhlMWyieNirHpmQkpM5fZvAc4t6pZwOPylwErlQB-Ejz_RdrFRUsR78Ve2Fv2-AXTrby7Yk1cudpCk2voyxRFtJgPlQsfkmjeQjaUzpkQa7DPcbKUiRkPSobJ-Gw-tzPuZM2e-7cldGdr-Lgody758Dd7roFh5Gf9f0U/s320/IMG_1471.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A trio of drummers performed the dramatic<br />Art of the 24 Festive Drums, on stage<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then
our attention was riveted to the stage where a trio of drummers performed the dramatic
Art of the 24 Festive Drums, a proudly Johor-born art of drumming.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">[I
am familiar with this art of drumming because I had featured the co-founder of
the 24 Festive Drums, Tan Chai Puan, as an exclusive story in my 2017 MPH
Non-Fiction Bestseller, <i>My Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People, Rich
Heritage</i>, and the Art of the 24 Festive Drums as a proudly Johor brand,
established here and exported abroad, published in <i>My Johor Stories 3:
Proudly Johor, Then and Now,</i> in 2022.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4qHOebjn7Ztpp9tkxruR5FVQSbR3_E_UqVTLbntyXyCeIg9t_7Ajd0bhUhlKy7dGGSSlrnbPAJFt7otCZrwQdGt1YjB8wREVuYWPrrK3N33nxD3fKMCzNyx9eX2N2ZNHrUzlMy0rxSniSHutsGBNNaCkY5YzzjYheFqNMX54Cluwr_8A5nWKgCUF/s720/IMG_0338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="720" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4qHOebjn7Ztpp9tkxruR5FVQSbR3_E_UqVTLbntyXyCeIg9t_7Ajd0bhUhlKy7dGGSSlrnbPAJFt7otCZrwQdGt1YjB8wREVuYWPrrK3N33nxD3fKMCzNyx9eX2N2ZNHrUzlMy0rxSniSHutsGBNNaCkY5YzzjYheFqNMX54Cluwr_8A5nWKgCUF/s320/IMG_0338.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carved vegetables in the presentation of this<br />Stir-fried Garlic Soya King Prawns<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">When
the platter of Stir-fried Garlic Soya King Prawns was served, I could not help
but notice the effort put into its presentation. These whole prawns in their
shells, prepared in a traditional <i>harlok </i>(Cantonese) recipe, were fresh
and tasty.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">After
enjoying the satisfying tastes of the poultry, fish and prawns, I was looking
forward to the vegetable dish and was not disappointed with the familiar
flavour of Broccoli florets topped with Shitake Mushrooms arranged within a
ring of Fortune Bags.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupfZXEKge_fL0UfIQaLv7di2RjNjlvdoibAxCogg9LqtcH-jrPqGIHa2IioNo5krXFs5J4dmuQUs_16LbTf-O_gJxvMVTbq_VesdMrnveYKA2cJZN5IYmgp-w5_W5OWMcfBGow2SNGE8fIl6on3MoPGNOmlGFd2r5D6cWx4N8wGjKba9L0L4XAH1X/s698/IMG_0343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="698" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupfZXEKge_fL0UfIQaLv7di2RjNjlvdoibAxCogg9LqtcH-jrPqGIHa2IioNo5krXFs5J4dmuQUs_16LbTf-O_gJxvMVTbq_VesdMrnveYKA2cJZN5IYmgp-w5_W5OWMcfBGow2SNGE8fIl6on3MoPGNOmlGFd2r5D6cWx4N8wGjKba9L0L4XAH1X/s320/IMG_0343.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Broccoli florets topped by Shitake Mushrooms<br />within a ring of Fortune Bags<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
banquet meal ended with portions of Steamed Supreme Rice with Salted Egg
individually wrapped in lotus leaves. This dish may not be “photogenic” but
after the first bite, my fellow diners agreed with me that it tasted, oh so
good!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Finally,
the savoury flavours we enjoyed in this menu was aptly washed down with a
chilled dessert of Ice-Jelly Longan and Sea Coconut.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">After
the Chinese chefs joined Chef Daniel on the stage to take a bow for serving the
evening’s banquet, Chef Daniel came by again for our comments about the dishes
served.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">He
also mentioned that banquet reservations for Chinese New Year’s Eve was already
closed but diners should not hesitate to make their reservations for dates
before the eve of Chinese New Year and during the Chinese New Year season.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For more information on the menu
and for reservations, Tel: +6013 778 6821 or email to
fnb.fpph@frasershospitality.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Fraser
Place Puteri Harbour is located at Jalan Persiaran Tanjung, Pengkalan Puteri,
79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-37178872755670200192024-01-23T15:39:00.000+08:002024-01-23T15:39:07.079+08:00Lunar New Year celebrations at Legoland<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">To
usher in this Lunar Year of the Dragon, LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort with LEGO®
NINJAGO® are inviting all Ninjas to embark on an extraordinary adventure along
the Path of the Dragon to build, train and enhance their Ninja skills. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkAPSyOLVofxrVWqQk6pCi2ghid70MsTcdM9txtqFqtNjCEqeihkHV78DduDn5kVWwAsrcnalA7JjoBoOVfgUljstIo9w97GYd0xv_7K5ZZklIuCJQNohaJVp1GBbatMd5oHXYrMIpRJlqTm8GXF45W1Sd_aBohwQU4ISdeE5y6iS4xoLkwC-TjfO/s2304/IMG_0257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkAPSyOLVofxrVWqQk6pCi2ghid70MsTcdM9txtqFqtNjCEqeihkHV78DduDn5kVWwAsrcnalA7JjoBoOVfgUljstIo9w97GYd0xv_7K5ZZklIuCJQNohaJVp1GBbatMd5oHXYrMIpRJlqTm8GXF45W1Sd_aBohwQU4ISdeE5y6iS4xoLkwC-TjfO/s320/IMG_0257.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Master Lim</i> joined in the comic skit for the<br />launch of the Lunar New Year celebrations<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">From
January 18 to March 17, 2024, visitors can look forward to a fiery fusion of
dragon energy and action-packed fun to unleash their inner Ninja.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">So
get ready to kick off the Lunar New Year at Legoland Malaysia Resort where all Ninjas
will get the opportunity to choose the elemental dragon power that they wished
to master.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Upon
entering the park, visitors are invited to take part in themed activities and
interactive shows across the park to earn special stickers that will guide them
toward unlocking their ultimate Ninja potential.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgksAAFyAS7peLtrvF_GqRk-Vl-JYElhg7clQ63P1PJBs3vCRI8tDN8ZZUy3qehx0DIHXVW2jqcSbkjpAlIeBdhRRJ_bzAHHGyWYx-yzZpQSISFmK2JQW8kEo-5Z1fVaHYHyJd58xTzFDNdecL6B3d64epRkKGa-MlprnUvmLim4skntzMnid8NGeun/s2248/IMG_0205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="2248" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgksAAFyAS7peLtrvF_GqRk-Vl-JYElhg7clQ63P1PJBs3vCRI8tDN8ZZUy3qehx0DIHXVW2jqcSbkjpAlIeBdhRRJ_bzAHHGyWYx-yzZpQSISFmK2JQW8kEo-5Z1fVaHYHyJd58xTzFDNdecL6B3d64epRkKGa-MlprnUvmLim4skntzMnid8NGeun/s320/IMG_0205.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Make your wish at this Wisdom Tree<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">At the
Beginning, </span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">don’t miss the opportunity to
make a wish at </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Wisdom Tree</span></b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> decorated with
beautiful cherry blossoms.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Then catch </span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">the specially curated Lunar New Year
performance that combine </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Martial Arts</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"> and </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Chinese Traditional Dance</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"> that feature a guest appearance from Ollie
the Dragon!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">From February 10-25, 2024, catch Ollie the Dragon
in his special Lunar New Year outfit with special appearances from a famous Cheng
Du Opera actor and the mischievous Monkey King. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjtTdNKtz62-FBEWA6qhlzV7t1QtD1USukJGtpxI6uFCNyzGM9KOk5oOUo2ppjmKWzibmlbMZwye2Ko8aoMOLvNvbYtGI4_q4SsN2l_naxM5Tp71TetPs07I5mwCXkTMia5EED0RtONdlN3l4xr4-6fl8wfw2PVhmLoY4dJm7TBCTguEh4UOG1HJm/s2304/IMG_0274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjtTdNKtz62-FBEWA6qhlzV7t1QtD1USukJGtpxI6uFCNyzGM9KOk5oOUo2ppjmKWzibmlbMZwye2Ko8aoMOLvNvbYtGI4_q4SsN2l_naxM5Tp71TetPs07I5mwCXkTMia5EED0RtONdlN3l4xr4-6fl8wfw2PVhmLoY4dJm7TBCTguEh4UOG1HJm/s320/IMG_0274.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miniland version of Dragon Dance, Lion Dance,<br />High-Pole Lion Dance and Chinese drummers<br />presented at <i>The Forbidden City</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then on February 10 and 11, 2024, watch live performances
of</span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">traditional </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Lion Dance</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> and highly skilled </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">High-Pole Lion Dancers</span></b></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">The Lunar New Year celebrations at the park
was launched in a simple ceremony by </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">CS
Lim, Divisional Director of LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort</span><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">, better known as <i>Master Lim</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">He was such a good sport to dress the part and
joined a comic skit in the role of Master Lim, to entertain and enhance the
mood in the launch event, held at the Beginning.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“This
Lunar New Year, LEGOLAND isn't just about building bricks. It is about building
heroes! <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFxYSQgvTW3p6WowG0YodeBg-HX_4Uq-ha8yLiY4bdoq4XjY2O5cGdp7MFrYlVvBOFNwXdRvce8xnMmRMhjgG3u6xFn5x2L6jZ3uNuOcwFIljHZT7NAldOdtzQ-qZU8iPctMHanMelh_4JgCi6S32YNcd8FpAmsL5irbzVcJn665jUKpfDgmYg6vs/s2302/IMG_0222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2302" data-original-width="1532" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFxYSQgvTW3p6WowG0YodeBg-HX_4Uq-ha8yLiY4bdoq4XjY2O5cGdp7MFrYlVvBOFNwXdRvce8xnMmRMhjgG3u6xFn5x2L6jZ3uNuOcwFIljHZT7NAldOdtzQ-qZU8iPctMHanMelh_4JgCi6S32YNcd8FpAmsL5irbzVcJn665jUKpfDgmYg6vs/s320/IMG_0222.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ms Thila with C S Lim,<br />striking a pose together<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">We
are blending LEGO NINJAGO's epic adventures with Malaysian traditions, teaching
families the valuable lessons about friendship and believing in themselves, all
while having a blast with dragons, shows and epic ninja fun!” said CS Lim.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“It's
going to be a Lunar New Year they'll never forget,” he added.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Take time to meet brand-new LEGO NINJAGO
characters Sora and Arin together with Ninja Kai, and Master Wu. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Also at the Beginning, visitors can </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Build-A-Mech </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">for Sora and Arin as they compete in The Crossroads Race.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0fN54z3aZ_Tgws2bxdK1ck7Wtaf-hpmPIJcGTP04yFA9C13nvHv5vFKLHxkeCtimfVsex2_tsYzNpCSZGKbo_WCNYkQLE5mYBA9AHMfBKe1mOed7-vFQBMSgClurcflAm8lplfVv5F-KuoLSFs7K2SDCGGSeE-AK1RG4MxFsWe1z1h6eDLQpJzsOX/s2304/IMG_0206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0fN54z3aZ_Tgws2bxdK1ck7Wtaf-hpmPIJcGTP04yFA9C13nvHv5vFKLHxkeCtimfVsex2_tsYzNpCSZGKbo_WCNYkQLE5mYBA9AHMfBKe1mOed7-vFQBMSgClurcflAm8lplfVv5F-KuoLSFs7K2SDCGGSeE-AK1RG4MxFsWe1z1h6eDLQpJzsOX/s320/IMG_0206.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Come, build your own Ultimate Dragon Build<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Then embrace the Year of the Dragon by building
your very own </span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ultimate Dragon Build</span></span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">
with LEGO Bricks. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Also help </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Hunt for the Dragons</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"> hidden at LEGO
NINJAGO World! There are special prizes for Ninjas who spot all five dragons, so
be sure to snap a photo of each dragon you find to redeem a gift. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">There are opportunities to capture cool photos
with the </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Ninjas Unite
backdrop</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"> and to test your Ninjas
skills, just hop on </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">LEGO NINJAGO The Ride </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">for
the ultimate test!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zkX4La8l9eZ53YWk02LEPCX2hUyyobIAlAOWzo4Dge31BA-Ac8inOwW5ggQ1lvz6_buqfpSTwpN9AsfU8adXl4hlsHzd3_NBTQ2-tbb-NezHn6_k0n6dks-wMZf86DkSO4Hk9ulCP-M-CeNu81Mpgrarb_Vlv90QnRwlNTRF1y2fPMXJZFegPnQP/s4032/IMG_1454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zkX4La8l9eZ53YWk02LEPCX2hUyyobIAlAOWzo4Dge31BA-Ac8inOwW5ggQ1lvz6_buqfpSTwpN9AsfU8adXl4hlsHzd3_NBTQ2-tbb-NezHn6_k0n6dks-wMZf86DkSO4Hk9ulCP-M-CeNu81Mpgrarb_Vlv90QnRwlNTRF1y2fPMXJZFegPnQP/s320/IMG_1454.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrate Lunar Year of the Dragon<br />with LEGO bricks<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">With exclusive new shows, awesome brick builds and
more, visitors should not miss an action-packed day of Ninja fun at LEGOLAND
Malaysia Resort this Lunar New Year! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Enjoy a must-see live Japanese-puppet-style show
with impressive visual mapping effects presented at the City Stage and be
transported into the world of </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">LEGO NINJAGO & The Realm of Shadows.<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">If you started your visit with dancing along
to </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">The Dragon’s Heartbeat</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;"> with an epic drum performance and showing off
your best Ninja moves at the </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">‘Whip Around’ Dance Party</span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">,
then celebrate your Ninja achievements at the end of the day with the </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">Ninjas Unite Celebration </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-MY; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: PMingLiU;">where you can see your favourite LEGO NINJAGO ninjas.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">For more information, head over to the official
website at </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.legoland.com.my/explore/shows-entertainment/ninjago/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">https://www.legoland.com.my/explore/shows-entertainment/ninjago/</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>or LEGOLAND
social media pages on </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/LEGOLAND.my/"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Facebook</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> and </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/legolandmalaysia/"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Instagram</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-33599029175341214922024-01-22T22:35:00.001+08:002024-01-22T22:39:16.601+08:00Good food, good friends at Jombali Village<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Looking
back, it was some 13 years ago when I got acquainted with Chef Gary Ozzy Hong and
his cuisine served first, at the <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2011/03/grilled-pleasures.html">Grill Bar</a> and then at the biker themed, <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2016/04/biker-themed-cafe-racer.html">Café Racer</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvcpoPhjAPmaJ0o2wSz7UfRlnCszIfrGtCA_xvnjYBbvwcYcnmIPJdO0X40NG_hnXJrrqMhRDU5qm8OJVJmgJ0VWd63L334c_ccpMOVw0J59tEZVx89-Ny47Lw0D_5QiWbei930e5cvsSu5kBXC008KP8ub-yIt3cOXtALCRJC8nYUbAY_-FuhSV_O/s1280/PHOTO-2024-01-18-22-19-12.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvcpoPhjAPmaJ0o2wSz7UfRlnCszIfrGtCA_xvnjYBbvwcYcnmIPJdO0X40NG_hnXJrrqMhRDU5qm8OJVJmgJ0VWd63L334c_ccpMOVw0J59tEZVx89-Ny47Lw0D_5QiWbei930e5cvsSu5kBXC008KP8ub-yIt3cOXtALCRJC8nYUbAY_-FuhSV_O/s320/PHOTO-2024-01-18-22-19-12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A we-fie with Chef Gary Hong at Jombali Village<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">As
discerning diners often returned for more dining experiences at these two
eateries, the Chef successfully established a reputation for himself in Johor
Baru. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Regulars
familiar with Chef Gary will agree with me that he has an enterprising spirit
and oozes with culinary creativity, probably because it is in his genes. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
is because his grandfather, Hong Say Tee, was an entrepreneur and innovative
pioneer in the Food & Beverage industry, who earned himself the enviable moniker
as <a href="https://ppunlimited.blogspot.com/2021/08/remembering-johor-barus-coffeeshop-king.html">Johor Baru’s Coffee Shop King</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">[I
had the privilege to feature the Coffee Shop King under Portraits in <i>My
Johor Stories 2: Interesting Places and Inspirational People</i>, published in
2018. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">So
honoured to have documented his story because he left us peacefully at the ripe
old age of 100 in August 2021.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4CE7atCE2G1tLHNqEDR1TOibFkq25AV5bJeGoA6EdEDQ3YFEZe3YXsU5-VhsD7XjC0YDa10-kNpA5Z2mlIHWzlU3TOpgi6EJGR4lpriatqPhM7VQA3VSbbRO94EHeU1wKxYyNyftRudMI2nvjgnK4IXa576ZhWZ1GpE2YsZe8Mcb_X9hITppCxU0/s3461/IMG_1436.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2465" data-original-width="3461" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4CE7atCE2G1tLHNqEDR1TOibFkq25AV5bJeGoA6EdEDQ3YFEZe3YXsU5-VhsD7XjC0YDa10-kNpA5Z2mlIHWzlU3TOpgi6EJGR4lpriatqPhM7VQA3VSbbRO94EHeU1wKxYyNyftRudMI2nvjgnK4IXa576ZhWZ1GpE2YsZe8Mcb_X9hITppCxU0/s320/IMG_1436.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is a charming outdoor section [Upstairs]<br />at Jombali Village<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">After
a successful stint in Johor Baru, Chef Gary sold his businesses and headed
across the Causeway (again!) to seek new challenges and fresh experiences to
add to his culinary portfolio.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
I learnt when I bumped into Chef Gary just days into January this new year. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">A
lot had happened in the past few years but I was delighted to hear that he is
back in the city and had recently started a new venture at Jombali Village.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
he graciously invited me over, I thought I should share this dining experience
with my foodie friends and wasted no time in making the arrangements.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSW_YXVMVrpO99G72MZv8eFVrGm3F3s0jj2g1YTUZrAAgR3cJ32IZGrxSnJcW3dJ7604ob_mpwhuFJ23m7XKZmyJSq5jgs9mlU6JbZdPIleT8O4MRma_pk9Ebg8M4OBATUjc2k-9a5BPdadeqR6NbaBc4GuiraQywHDY7SXfqaGkKmkaAhWsbXLWrk/s2302/IMG_0201.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1532" data-original-width="2302" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSW_YXVMVrpO99G72MZv8eFVrGm3F3s0jj2g1YTUZrAAgR3cJ32IZGrxSnJcW3dJ7604ob_mpwhuFJ23m7XKZmyJSq5jgs9mlU6JbZdPIleT8O4MRma_pk9Ebg8M4OBATUjc2k-9a5BPdadeqR6NbaBc4GuiraQywHDY7SXfqaGkKmkaAhWsbXLWrk/s320/IMG_0201.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A section of the outdoor dining area<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">From
my experience of the cuisine presented by Chef Gary, I had much confidence that
the menu at Jombali should meet mine and the tastes of my friends.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">With
a restaurant named Jombali, I guessed it gave our talented chef a great deal of
room to apply his creative culinary skills in the preparation and presentation
of dishes made with Indonesian influence but using European techniques.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Jalan
Perang is a familiar street for cafés and restaurants in Taman Pelangi so I was
pleased to find parking space here. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUu2ArEUmYrHk8WCFbMZo7PYycGVmH1LGXRTHbVIhfl9TIkFwnvTX1UABTYcoS_baUriUE5TVvWdS3Bk_ZKJA8hxrsuHQmoxMfUgyiIhrAmDmlDhlQEis6BWB1LczP5RW7nDVpXyDQiLRcI7dFsgWU8dhY9V0G_-35KdjRAn9q6SwXz3HtnhwZQ-7Q/s3928/IMG_1428.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3928" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUu2ArEUmYrHk8WCFbMZo7PYycGVmH1LGXRTHbVIhfl9TIkFwnvTX1UABTYcoS_baUriUE5TVvWdS3Bk_ZKJA8hxrsuHQmoxMfUgyiIhrAmDmlDhlQEis6BWB1LczP5RW7nDVpXyDQiLRcI7dFsgWU8dhY9V0G_-35KdjRAn9q6SwXz3HtnhwZQ-7Q/s320/IMG_1428.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef Gary Hong in his element,<br />working at the open kitchen<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">From
its façade, I saw that the restaurant occupied two shop-lots and there was a
charming outdoor dining area that overlooked the street. By the side of a
Korean restaurant, a flight of stairs led to Jombali located above.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">At
the top of the stairs, I spotted the open kitchen through the glass paneled
door even before it was opened for us to come in.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">From
where he was working at this open kitchen, Chef Gary shouted his welcome <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">while
we were ushered to a table in the outdoor section.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As
the waitress was taking our drink orders, my thoughts were on the concept of
the open kitchen where the chef welcomed diners to watch/observe/admire his
skills in preparing and presenting their food orders. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GSWcyZ7Fl2oNU-8laTgYcjAi93SlpzmRfGsWpKNA5Nrv0MBXl7Mpn-TE3E0_-UsCvjtwVbrh7aned01DaQ7oTw3QHTmvBn-XSa1brAGeI2_0z2GFJtDwce5n7WdR6ZcAhuSQnP67DZZbFF1tNWV6QBVyQhyZIRTMsShyTN4hjNlmByLX2GWi2azw/s2304/IMG_0122.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GSWcyZ7Fl2oNU-8laTgYcjAi93SlpzmRfGsWpKNA5Nrv0MBXl7Mpn-TE3E0_-UsCvjtwVbrh7aned01DaQ7oTw3QHTmvBn-XSa1brAGeI2_0z2GFJtDwce5n7WdR6ZcAhuSQnP67DZZbFF1tNWV6QBVyQhyZIRTMsShyTN4hjNlmByLX2GWi2azw/s320/IMG_0122.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emping Belinjo crisps served<br />with two choice of tasty sambals<br /> </td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I
believe this also counts for the confidence of the chef who was pleased to show
off his culinary skills so diners could see for themselves, the quality ingredients
that went into the dishes and the way the chef meticulously added his personal
touch before each platter was served to the diners’ tables.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
heard the helpful waitress recommend their refreshing fresh juices and orders
were placed for Fresh Watermelon Mint and Fresh Pineapple Mint along with
bottled beers like Carlsberg, Erdinger White and Hoegaarden.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
the main course items were being prepared, <i>Emping Belinjo</i> was served as
a starter to whet our appetite for the dishes that Chef Gary wanted us to
taste.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF2TYGQbnXqAZHdzaiRM3sVhDi1UxZj091ZfnQ-lHLfj5rL4g-rKjN3RYksxL5u0Eu3iIby5T1X1mI46yX_ugZVxisrBn718PHI56xUUOgNrsPunVsCAWr4gAnYUu5LHhXBydqndMpF5jChLQtFDxNV4Zg2qd_WVDhLfjsgPZ6mr3V2V5Iqp8I6QRA/s2304/IMG_0167.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF2TYGQbnXqAZHdzaiRM3sVhDi1UxZj091ZfnQ-lHLfj5rL4g-rKjN3RYksxL5u0Eu3iIby5T1X1mI46yX_ugZVxisrBn718PHI56xUUOgNrsPunVsCAWr4gAnYUu5LHhXBydqndMpF5jChLQtFDxNV4Zg2qd_WVDhLfjsgPZ6mr3V2V5Iqp8I6QRA/s320/IMG_0167.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I could not get enough of Jagung Bakar Jombali<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Belinjo
are traditional Indonesian curly crisps made from <i>melinjo</i> or <i>belinjo</i>
nuts that has a slight bitter taste and to add a bit of zing, these crackers
were served on a platter with two types of sambal dips. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
Red sambal clearly hinted of spicy chillie while the savoury taste of the Green
sambal was also a winner, rich with the toasted flavour of anchovies. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
we were deciding which of the two sambals we preferred, Chef Gary came to our
table to say, “Hello!” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtdZCgzo6kj4EgS173V4T20GMxnbwD4ahZfHEFWtFbnDvA1zSE5Hzy-PypDNmQvjeOgSCvrG-07hyphenhyphenrfDoUQZRH4JLG-_-PWT1jxMQeVSOa1_bXViPOb8-p484Qp89Ac7H_4PxjFc6HY2Gduzv33WtQFwXnoRmBCdzceC0kL-uEwthexK5zCTwTE0i/s4030/IMG_1429.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4030" data-original-width="3022" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtdZCgzo6kj4EgS173V4T20GMxnbwD4ahZfHEFWtFbnDvA1zSE5Hzy-PypDNmQvjeOgSCvrG-07hyphenhyphenrfDoUQZRH4JLG-_-PWT1jxMQeVSOa1_bXViPOb8-p484Qp89Ac7H_4PxjFc6HY2Gduzv33WtQFwXnoRmBCdzceC0kL-uEwthexK5zCTwTE0i/s320/IMG_1429.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decor in the indoor dining hall<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When
we asked him about the sambals served with the belinjo crisps, he shared about
his desire to replicate the sambals once served at <i>Yong Nasi Padang</i>, one
of the landmark coffeeshops run by his grandfather in downtown Johor Baru.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">[Throughout
the meal, I observed that each meat dish was complemented by a side of sauce or
dip for diners to add something more to enhance the flavours.]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
he excused himself to return to the kitchen. He was (understandably!) anxious to
prepare the dishes to impress us but I guess he was confident that we will be
suitably impressed because he said, “Let the food do the talking!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
the platter of <i>Jagung Bakar Jombali</i> was served, I was pleased that this
corn-on-the cob dish was not only presented creatively but it tasted so
extraordinary (I must confess!) that I had to consciously stop myself from
taking another piece because I had to keep some space to taste the other
delightful dishes. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">No,
it was not unladylike to hold the corn in my hand and nibble the pearls of corn
because this was exactly how we should relish the taste of this grilled
corn-on-the-cob.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3jBw709t3F41Yo7PdUVqwoWI_Mrd4YyzFcbZ1BDmgIXQOmdxBxFqKwDdhdLOgPeslG_5Uklw5DozYmFyYdlnyskR1OzDgmb_O8w57y4AhFknhsm2olTcBb0Zzosu0yfaTL59W0m8fV1bs-aLVFiFzpJiMu0hSE8JCJq0J3D-jvRKzCQLMFV_qoYds/s2304/IMG_0165.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3jBw709t3F41Yo7PdUVqwoWI_Mrd4YyzFcbZ1BDmgIXQOmdxBxFqKwDdhdLOgPeslG_5Uklw5DozYmFyYdlnyskR1OzDgmb_O8w57y4AhFknhsm2olTcBb0Zzosu0yfaTL59W0m8fV1bs-aLVFiFzpJiMu0hSE8JCJq0J3D-jvRKzCQLMFV_qoYds/s320/IMG_0165.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nangka Goreng Gulai Hijau<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Fans
of seafood soup will appreciate the creamy taste of Village Crab Lump Soup, so
named because the Seafood Bisque was filled with lumps of Swimmer Crab meat. It
came with a slice of grilled bread to mop up the soup to its last delicious
drop. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Clam
lovers may pick from a choice of two clam soups: the Spicy Live Clam Soup, as
its name indicates, tasted spicy, while the Butter & Wine Clam Soup was
mmm… yum.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
we were served two <i>goreng</i> or fried dishes, each fried quite differently.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0osKnb1fM9jYy5EUsMOuQKeeiKsnk9N1XTuIm1kM-ZYYxi2Tu-5Tmdy0U-dScivHtzCIAmZYvb73mqvJLlb05iLbp5uMkGE-XEp4hzpbk_Fuo7XVJTCIYkrRAUc9q7fGNTzTuJIEOKJgIyjsWKyBwY1mCf_emWiXnwD9L_7umhN-b_WX73dGMI3LO/s2296/IMG_0175.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1524" data-original-width="2296" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0osKnb1fM9jYy5EUsMOuQKeeiKsnk9N1XTuIm1kM-ZYYxi2Tu-5Tmdy0U-dScivHtzCIAmZYvb73mqvJLlb05iLbp5uMkGE-XEp4hzpbk_Fuo7XVJTCIYkrRAUc9q7fGNTzTuJIEOKJgIyjsWKyBwY1mCf_emWiXnwD9L_7umhN-b_WX73dGMI3LO/s320/IMG_0175.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A serving of Australian Angus Sirloin<br />Flame-Seared Steak<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Earlier
on, Chef Gary said that the dishes in his menu were bar-bites or just right to
pair with drinks so I was pleased to see a platter of <i>Bebek Goreng Bali</i>,
deep-fried duck with a side of dip sauce, that went well with our drinks. [By
the way, the Indonesian word for <i>duck, </i>is <i>bebek</i>.] </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Fresh
fruit in a savoury dish was the next experience where we enjoyed the sweet,
ripe taste of <i>Nangka Goreng Gulai Hijau</i> or juicy Jackfruit in Green
Curry.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">While
Chef Gary uses local sources for most of his ingredients, some of the imported meats
he serves include the Australian Angus Sirloin Flame-Seared Steak and the New
Zealand Garlic Lamb Loin, each served with Asian Chimichurri <i>gulai</i>
gravy.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCdzk1RrI2VHQ1P97Ys0nZBsHDelhvLbySVPC5W0M9n9zowdD1H9ZHp7BHaQIrP_-oGxAeX6krWgJj_kl13Kk7cRKM1s8qM3K4XVXxX1tKmJxN-oGECCFUkFL0uq1ABwyhCvhJkrWhFa79Fcr1YCKs2dROTzU6h3jbXhK-Vn-P1HmjKGgydi1ZI7E/s2184/IMG_0168.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1330" data-original-width="2184" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCdzk1RrI2VHQ1P97Ys0nZBsHDelhvLbySVPC5W0M9n9zowdD1H9ZHp7BHaQIrP_-oGxAeX6krWgJj_kl13Kk7cRKM1s8qM3K4XVXxX1tKmJxN-oGECCFUkFL0uq1ABwyhCvhJkrWhFa79Fcr1YCKs2dROTzU6h3jbXhK-Vn-P1HmjKGgydi1ZI7E/s320/IMG_0168.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jombali Ikan Bakar<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
platter of <i>Crispy Udang Laut Besar</i> or battered large sea prawns, was
served with a citrus dip. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
best way to savour them was to pick up the whole prawns with my fingers, nibble
the crispy bits, then chew and crunch up the juicy prawns, crispy shells and
all. Then politely, leave its tail. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">From
the bones left behind, I saw that my foodie friends also enjoyed the <i>Jombali
Ikan Bakar sambal kicap</i>, fresh whole seabass grilled and served with
sweet dark sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSsawtKCMeUPTD2e2-GxBW6CDCBA0y_RYTEnFdWaIfgd4NRkJlkasISccnu3YlpA8TPwFyHE5uGBFsDdsO6nfd_ayyWKCOdOtyJb-Y9hUnHHzsKQQDOcr2vVM6UK8RuQP6iqE4oXtnf3Ljfs2wuikh1eQ29fj0W8-NmsspMK6eJALWCpyoKtZDnNQ/s3964/IMG_1430.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2930" data-original-width="3964" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSsawtKCMeUPTD2e2-GxBW6CDCBA0y_RYTEnFdWaIfgd4NRkJlkasISccnu3YlpA8TPwFyHE5uGBFsDdsO6nfd_ayyWKCOdOtyJb-Y9hUnHHzsKQQDOcr2vVM6UK8RuQP6iqE4oXtnf3Ljfs2wuikh1eQ29fj0W8-NmsspMK6eJALWCpyoKtZDnNQ/s320/IMG_1430.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome back to the Johor Baru F&B scene<br />Chef Gary Hong<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When
we gave our compliments and comments to Chef Gary, he was not only receptive but
said that he was ready to add more items to his interesting menu. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Regulars
(like me) who are familiar with him will notice that he had dramatically shed a
lot of body weight since we first met. This he attributed to the discipline of
cutting out carbohydrates in his diet. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">But
he was quick to assure us that they do serve rice for diners who wished to eat
rice with the dishes in his menu. [So please do not hesitate to ask for rice!]<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Our
evening of good food with good friends ended in a convivial mood as we reminisced
about the cafés that once dotted this same street and their popular dishes. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
was pure foodie fun to share ideas as Chef Gary was still developing his menu
to offer something for everyone to enjoy.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Jombali
Village is located up a flight of stairs at No. 39-A Jalan Perang, Taman
Pelangi, 80400 Johor Baru, Johor. Open daily, from 4pm to 12am. No pork or lard
are used in the kitchen. For reservations, Tel: +6017 733 5577.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-68552279715682716342024-01-20T21:52:00.001+08:002024-01-20T21:52:24.405+08:00AmCham staff visit to Johor<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">“Err…
what is AmCham?” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
you read the word, <i>AmCham,</i> I guess this question popped up. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7ZaxZsa29kWm06V5uXzSzQID3rgnFKEX4vbZdc4IK7kRT0SLDJKXS-U9XfwIs6l9gGLuEzxXw8tXhDvlxBDrmdA3iowHihe-o4oZXFPkRZh13uwOg4pLzZ9alI7CSp2cfUmgSNMul6VRXm-xdy32Cg5j5woSIGWa-GBLYNpVjOp_k2HQea4nO98Z/s1250/8e9431a7-3b74-4ffd-bf86-db078ee0d294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="876" data-original-width="1250" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7ZaxZsa29kWm06V5uXzSzQID3rgnFKEX4vbZdc4IK7kRT0SLDJKXS-U9XfwIs6l9gGLuEzxXw8tXhDvlxBDrmdA3iowHihe-o4oZXFPkRZh13uwOg4pLzZ9alI7CSp2cfUmgSNMul6VRXm-xdy32Cg5j5woSIGWa-GBLYNpVjOp_k2HQea4nO98Z/s320/8e9431a7-3b74-4ffd-bf86-db078ee0d294.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group shot in Hua Mui restaurant<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">In
our <i>kopitiam</i> culture, a beverage blend of coffee and tea equals, “cham”
or <i>mixed</i> in the colloquial tongue. So, is AmCham a type of blended
drink?</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
I met members of this group for lunch at Hua Mui restaurant, I was told that
the shortform of their name, American Chamber of Commerce was simply, AmCham.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I learnt
that 12 in their group travelled by train while five took the bus across the
Johor Straits to reach Johor Baru that morning to start their visit to the
heritage quarter.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
was interesting to hear that planning for this visit started since last
September. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOmDrbpqTM0Ax1MvD1EfS5RsrsIpvOPcE4vG4TvL55WK_wYRvNRk_-AfnTx5ovbUjp2CZrsdodK4AXFwEoTCr7ei7PFBTnYZxPEFDbH-izX0swIunII8W046QmpGfPFsCK6-oP5l3hek2uT9TielcC8UaqhlOTgVNyyL-968-FA8yEh2xbRb75ac9r/s3878/IMG_1420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2808" data-original-width="3878" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOmDrbpqTM0Ax1MvD1EfS5RsrsIpvOPcE4vG4TvL55WK_wYRvNRk_-AfnTx5ovbUjp2CZrsdodK4AXFwEoTCr7ei7PFBTnYZxPEFDbH-izX0swIunII8W046QmpGfPFsCK6-oP5l3hek2uT9TielcC8UaqhlOTgVNyyL-968-FA8yEh2xbRb75ac9r/s320/IMG_1420.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three books autographed for Bibi<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">As
for me, I learnt about this plan from Jane Iyer of Jane’s Tours in Singapore since
last October when she wrote me and said:</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">“Pleased
to say we’re finally able to work on a tour to Johor Baru in January next year.”
She said that the tour was with a group of about 15 from the American Chamber
of Commerce in Singapore. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
Jane told me that she had checked at mphonline.com but failed to find <i>My
Johor Stories: True Tales, Real People, Rich Heritage,</i> among the catalogue
of my books and asked if I could help her get a copy.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
explained that this book was my 2017 MPH Non-Fiction Bestseller so by 2023,
stocks may be running very low at MPH bookstores but I assured her that I am
keeping a small stock and would be happy to put one in the post for her.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLME3lGGtlGoixRNPLYt1sIEaCnm2AHMXDAhGPG_W300f7hfQh4X0FbOwR6nuFpPtb1SFgIkIdy4oy544hQZajOlkUnxr6gneWH4zgd3qE5jx95FM5PrEGbPU-THc11ljLuvk3Ov1hsF1re2Ru3L9aEs6kr6e4y7LfulfdehwXZsRNlQAzNJr-URZx/s3327/IMG_1421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3327" data-original-width="2237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLME3lGGtlGoixRNPLYt1sIEaCnm2AHMXDAhGPG_W300f7hfQh4X0FbOwR6nuFpPtb1SFgIkIdy4oy544hQZajOlkUnxr6gneWH4zgd3qE5jx95FM5PrEGbPU-THc11ljLuvk3Ov1hsF1re2Ru3L9aEs6kr6e4y7LfulfdehwXZsRNlQAzNJr-URZx/s320/IMG_1421.jpg" width="215" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Facade of Hua Mui restaurant<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Jane
went on to invite me to join the tour group for lunch (if I was available) and
said that the leader for this tour was her colleague, Bibi, short for Berit
Karlsen, who is Danish, married to a Singaporean and speaks fluent Malay.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Jane
also shared with me their proposed itinerary for the group to experience local
street scenes with a (mandatory?) stop for banana cake and breads from Hiap Joo
traditional bakery.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">When
Jane asked me about working with local tour guides for the morning walk in our
heritage quarter, I did not hesitate to connect her with my friends in the
Johor Tourist Guides Association.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
was mid-November when Jane wrote again to say she was back from her travels and
was delighted to see that my book had arrived by post, safe and sound.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Two
days later, Jane wrote to say: “I’m so enjoying your book which brought back
memories of when I lived at BBC Tebrau (near Masai) in February 1963. Must tell
you more when we finally get together…”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLfQur__oaCMms8ldlVFmYXmdb0Fe5NfPNCFGfIlnSzwzbQ4kxmSmpjQWEXc3MYL-E3qJL8zfZ3eFlMkAAd3byhKw7dD49yKILxiX-wU4rJJQSM_koQwiUed0W2vFSnA7UsxDWWG4BZ4HT-mI_Fgz_1yhmso71kbhz6QHO6TqAYdOcVnH2cOqIY4n/s2260/IMG_0106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2260" data-original-width="1466" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWLfQur__oaCMms8ldlVFmYXmdb0Fe5NfPNCFGfIlnSzwzbQ4kxmSmpjQWEXc3MYL-E3qJL8zfZ3eFlMkAAd3byhKw7dD49yKILxiX-wU4rJJQSM_koQwiUed0W2vFSnA7UsxDWWG4BZ4HT-mI_Fgz_1yhmso71kbhz6QHO6TqAYdOcVnH2cOqIY4n/s320/IMG_0106.JPG" width="208" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wooden flight of stairs<br />to the upstairs<br />dining hall at Hua Mui<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">In
early January 2024, Jane connected me with Bibi, her colleague who would be
leading the AmCham group to Johor Baru. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
Bibi told me that while she was reading <i>My Johor Stories</i> – borrowed from
Jane – she would like to have a set of the trilogy of My Johor Stories books of
her own.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
assured her that I would arrange it and even autograph the books and bring them
along for her when we met for lunch.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">On
that appointed day, the weather was fair and cloudy as I walked to Hua Mui, a landmark
kopitiam located at the corner where Jalan Trus meets with Jalan Dhoby.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
was pleased that table reservations have been made in advance as this restaurant
was a popular destination for diners seeking a taste of nostalgia at this
landmark kopitiam in downtown Johor Baru.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPvkNIfuWs55hGOVoqUV0wat8T5pcApT5ImehlyVNDWUxAWWRfJA_HD_As0y5b6St6B9t1ukNteBdgP5R4LhbfMkAzNdwORwXkhkBOHZS9R9jmdG2bgOFaWYTQ8AlMQPwlZrSX0peAwTmHkASrzaYYc8J7plzv7JQc1FFSwCn-pdr9y5-0IjSAqti2/s2222/IMG_0109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2222" data-original-width="1402" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPvkNIfuWs55hGOVoqUV0wat8T5pcApT5ImehlyVNDWUxAWWRfJA_HD_As0y5b6St6B9t1ukNteBdgP5R4LhbfMkAzNdwORwXkhkBOHZS9R9jmdG2bgOFaWYTQ8AlMQPwlZrSX0peAwTmHkASrzaYYc8J7plzv7JQc1FFSwCn-pdr9y5-0IjSAqti2/s320/IMG_0109.JPG" width="202" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celina with a bag of baked<br />Coconut Buns by Hiap Joo<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">To
me, every creak that sounded from the wooden staircase that linked the ground
floor to the upstairs dining hall, was pure nostalgia. (If the stairs/walls
could speak, I was sure they had loads of tales to share about the generations
who have dined here since the restaurant was opened in 1946.)</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
was good to meet Celina, Aisyah and Jayden from the group, who had arrived just
ahead of me, and while waiting for the others to trickle in, I quizzed them for
more info about their group’s visit here.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then
I learnt that the group of AmCham staff included Singaporeans, two American
Koreans and an American Taiwanese, some of whom were in Johor for the very
first time. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I
was not surprised to hear that these three were familiar with the attractions
in the downtown area because they and their family members were regular
visitors from across the causeway. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-Jh7IMvUBQKIwNnVJX-RPs3WQeokxOcFMVeTrmy2OdctWsuQ1DTnU2y6C7EfHxwKuY1831Hf0pZWspoC4F0d8xQr_rmt3DH-BPOEW1s6eJIYmrm0qyGP-3FPMNMR9KnFyhH0aDMPxZ9y0k0ZWapb83AdepcMBVA1-hzpDWTFst0wxcuEMU4zcZ6-/s3690/IMG_1424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2498" data-original-width="3690" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-Jh7IMvUBQKIwNnVJX-RPs3WQeokxOcFMVeTrmy2OdctWsuQ1DTnU2y6C7EfHxwKuY1831Hf0pZWspoC4F0d8xQr_rmt3DH-BPOEW1s6eJIYmrm0qyGP-3FPMNMR9KnFyhH0aDMPxZ9y0k0ZWapb83AdepcMBVA1-hzpDWTFst0wxcuEMU4zcZ6-/s320/IMG_1424.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Berit Karlsen AKA Bibi<br />at Hua Mui restaurant<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">While
Jayden (Indian) and Aisyah (Malay) were also familiar with their respective
pre-festive-season-shopping-destinations here, Celina (Chinese) did not deny
that she absolutely enjoyed the juicy taste of the Coconut Buns baked by Hiap
Joo.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Bibi
was thrilled to receive her set of <i>My Johor Stories</i> books and when she
packed them away in a tote bag which she just bought from the Johor Baru
Chinese Heritage Museum, I saw that it was a useful souvenir item printed with
a sketch of a landmark building drawn by Yap Hanzhen.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
gave me much pleasure to tell Bibi that I had documented Hanzhen’s story under
Portraits, among other Johoreans whose lives have impacted others, in my 2017
MPH Non-Fiction Bestseller.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrgyzy1IrgACbQ6AZ5_3PicypFDvc6r9q20Yp5PSK4GYLiUXbH7bhKCLV1s0gG2lyEY1NhllcIy-xwZHUZHNl3Y47mx-WwOrlG7eIcb0auMmgebMikZ8KprS5RXEc4MzwLe4N5IvwnPV4xTxKqY2KsyWi-CUZSi2gu-6pQ3-M-Fq0sXhpRiP3Sh7E/s2304/IMG_0112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2304" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrgyzy1IrgACbQ6AZ5_3PicypFDvc6r9q20Yp5PSK4GYLiUXbH7bhKCLV1s0gG2lyEY1NhllcIy-xwZHUZHNl3Y47mx-WwOrlG7eIcb0auMmgebMikZ8KprS5RXEc4MzwLe4N5IvwnPV4xTxKqY2KsyWi-CUZSi2gu-6pQ3-M-Fq0sXhpRiP3Sh7E/s320/IMG_0112.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hua Mui's kampung fried rice;<br />[Watch out for the 'fire cracker' chilli bits inside!]<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Meanwhile,
coordinating the food and beverage order for a group such as this was quite a
challenge but everyone was pleased when the drinks and dishes were (finally!) served
to our tables.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">As
I savoured my choice of their signature Hainanese Chicken Chop, I observed how
the plates were passed around the table for the colleagues to taste each
other’s orders of <i>kampung</i> fried rice and stir-fried noodles, prepared
the Hua Mui way.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">With
lunch comfortably done, the group was ready to head out again to do their own Rest
& Recreation “thing” during the next few hours of Free Time on their
itinerary.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJbbuD2Oh6h9yiBTArn8ikZqXkxWqARQDKjqI_fKpBChwsNguw4ourAtWQAYbE-G8VDvs9tVJifeqfwAhyP0fAGQckMNl72qDbYAyoerP3DWa4fmXSc6aEr6EAbyYXRpukGIn7WGR6JaDiMwt9q6EaE1J6WM_0IH-1wdBhY2puSTQTOYaQsGecWaw6/s1010/6c7238c8-494d-4bbb-9d7b-f3f691e749c7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="1010" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJbbuD2Oh6h9yiBTArn8ikZqXkxWqARQDKjqI_fKpBChwsNguw4ourAtWQAYbE-G8VDvs9tVJifeqfwAhyP0fAGQckMNl72qDbYAyoerP3DWa4fmXSc6aEr6EAbyYXRpukGIn7WGR6JaDiMwt9q6EaE1J6WM_0IH-1wdBhY2puSTQTOYaQsGecWaw6/s320/6c7238c8-494d-4bbb-9d7b-f3f691e749c7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We-fie taken by Christina Wong, their<br />Johor tourist guide for that morning<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">I overheard
from the chit-chat, that some were heading to Jalan Ungku Puan to buy some
traditional cooking ingredients while some had (already!) made spa treatment
appointments at Johor Baru City Square.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Bibi
and I were among the last to leave the restaurant. Before we parted ways, she graciously
thanked me for joining them and said she looked forward to the next opportunity
to meet up again.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">A
few days later, Bibi shared a brief update about the great time they all had in
their Free Time before heading out for dinner at the Hard Rock Café Puteri
Harbour.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">It
was good to know that their experience at the Customs Immigration &
Quarantine (CIQ) checkpoint for the return trip across the causeway, was what she
dubbed, “…a breeze!”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
more info about Jane’s Tours, visit website: www.janestours.sg<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7328904627967921433.post-25062289951530138442024-01-17T16:40:00.000+08:002024-01-17T16:40:00.298+08:00A taste of tradition at Hop Sing<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I
am familiar with the wholesome, homecooked-style dishes at Hop Sing, the
Chinese Restaurant in Ponderosa Golf & Country Club and was happy to join
the preview of their Chinese New Year banquet, one of the menus that will be served
from 1 to 24 February.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2BfLFcBWWg6dYuXL057Nmk_xviXNv2tr_rgL5r7oHZRVDdhy7XqvkRWhLFn-3NRvQ4Lqv8YRcGLONcYPtvFheuIrsfwisVkopgDZhRvtcvh4SNkOMepFRBiN7pYrG9Tok0ByV4o8sV1rStHuTEGZKrrnu1C75lj7OsIwxP_Fgeo3C4a68ALmbxgi_/s4010/IMG_1393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2994" data-original-width="4010" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2BfLFcBWWg6dYuXL057Nmk_xviXNv2tr_rgL5r7oHZRVDdhy7XqvkRWhLFn-3NRvQ4Lqv8YRcGLONcYPtvFheuIrsfwisVkopgDZhRvtcvh4SNkOMepFRBiN7pYrG9Tok0ByV4o8sV1rStHuTEGZKrrnu1C75lj7OsIwxP_Fgeo3C4a68ALmbxgi_/s320/IMG_1393.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Live music performance by a duet of musicians<br />playing traditional Chinese instruments, the<br /><i>erhu</i> [Left] and the <i>gu-zhen</i> [Right]<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">To
enhance the festive mood, the restaurant had arranged for a live music
performance by a duet of musicians skilled in playing traditional Chinese
instruments, the erhu and gu-zhen, as we usher in the Year of the Dragon. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">The
Chinese celebrate with sumptuous meals as they believed that it augurs well for
greater prosperity and abundance in the coming year and </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%;">I
liked that the set menus at Hop Sing are designed to cater to small groups that
aimed to reduce food wastage. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%;">To usher
in the Year of the Dragon, the culinary team has created sumptuous set menus that
caters for tables of six diners (RM388+) and eight diners (RM888+). <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 106%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiALv3blLSKjucAJ4r6yVUC0_E83_IRX-HaU5DEn6A7cYxRA8GyXco07-lQXulUCG-RtC30JypzDcrDG70bg5u7Xzm2AuplzXK63_pel0Fj8JWtaqZ2W6J6N8XjImHd_6ru8g41Eb5VDpuOEWYBT-vh-tK77vLtsLsHwEwR-UCLhHnDWevYxeueMxAy/s4032/IMG_1392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiALv3blLSKjucAJ4r6yVUC0_E83_IRX-HaU5DEn6A7cYxRA8GyXco07-lQXulUCG-RtC30JypzDcrDG70bg5u7Xzm2AuplzXK63_pel0Fj8JWtaqZ2W6J6N8XjImHd_6ru8g41Eb5VDpuOEWYBT-vh-tK77vLtsLsHwEwR-UCLhHnDWevYxeueMxAy/s320/IMG_1392.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My portion of <i>Yee Sang</i> salad<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Each of
these festive menus has the tradition of starting with a prosperity toss of this
salad as businessmen in this part of the world had started the tradition of
eating <i>Yee Sang</i> or Raw Fish salad at
the dawn of the New Year.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">Hop
Sing has provided the option to toss this auspicious salad with or without fish,
where the slivers of salmon were replaced by slices of refreshing fresh mango.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">Since
the restaurant started offering the option for Mango Yee Sang, this choice
remained popular as it not only tasted good but was also great for vegetarians.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">The
next course served in the set menu dubbed Imperial Dragon Set A for eight
diners, a hot soup was presented in a rich broth of Braised Fish Maw with Crabmeat.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 106%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJKRKaaYN20OwupTA1Vory-pjMjUnTdLHG3aFPtn3-nhAwsdk_qw00bozKg4g_wZC6dsD5VzXmgJJaWG2ctPRTnRkhzl7-riO9g0K8UpLavm0eq-Vw_D5qZBhyphenhyphen9W8uESFLBBTKc4xlguyEKg6-Gt7JK1DKgQ2vU13_Gl5bc9ntlP_CPY9FTCXp39uv/s3916/IMG_1407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3916" data-original-width="2864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJKRKaaYN20OwupTA1Vory-pjMjUnTdLHG3aFPtn3-nhAwsdk_qw00bozKg4g_wZC6dsD5VzXmgJJaWG2ctPRTnRkhzl7-riO9g0K8UpLavm0eq-Vw_D5qZBhyphenhyphen9W8uESFLBBTKc4xlguyEKg6-Gt7JK1DKgQ2vU13_Gl5bc9ntlP_CPY9FTCXp39uv/s320/IMG_1407.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The festive decor in the lobby of<br />Ponderosa Golf & Country Club<br />clubhouse<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">I chose
to add a shake of white pepper to this rich soup while others decided to add a
drizzle of dark vinegar.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">The
fish dish served was a whole Grouper steamed HongKong style in a light sauce. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">To connoisseurs
of steamed fish, the skill in steaming was in the timing to achieve flesh that
was smooth and tender. So the pile of bones and very little left of the whole fish
was certainly proof that they managed the steaming rather well.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">I soon
discovered that the Eight Treasure Prosperity Chicken was so named because I
spotted the eight different ingredients that were stuffed inside the bird that
was braised to a fall-off-the-bone tenderness.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 106%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLm_7HmHqGyHt5WWmapCmiLvfmdW9vzP8zUU-5-hak0RV2sVfp_nWzpzQYkHK9jO59TJba36xwTrUJtoNruG4W_DDPa6pIN9feznOrU425wSbwLnWaiF4JJdHpysI3pu42Wl98OnK7iHwYJbH3_jQCKyhFEChJmxYaMf0B0vHM2SXvhM2KtfQH3xC/s4032/IMG_1399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLm_7HmHqGyHt5WWmapCmiLvfmdW9vzP8zUU-5-hak0RV2sVfp_nWzpzQYkHK9jO59TJba36xwTrUJtoNruG4W_DDPa6pIN9feznOrU425wSbwLnWaiF4JJdHpysI3pu42Wl98OnK7iHwYJbH3_jQCKyhFEChJmxYaMf0B0vHM2SXvhM2KtfQH3xC/s320/IMG_1399.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eight Treasure Prosperity Chicken<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The
vegetable dish was Braised Chinese cabbage topped with razor clams, <i>fatt choy</i>
and dried oysters. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">This, I
thought, was their version of <i>Ho See Fatt Choy</i>, prepared with ingredients
that spell auspiciousness in the Chinese New Year tradition.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">The
tradition continued with the prawn dish where whole prawns in their shells were
prepared in a tasty Szechuan style sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 106%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64Ba_O9GUjFBKk0xmY1qFv1iLBKugevBY2wq_wKEkl_3PrrgUbm59jqAmkVsuIk9jiznwXtzrQMBxevS8weOBbAaa4Q5oW61dA6j9KgOwahmIHFc8S9YwBovDZMGe4wg_yeOjBaHu6izwl4aJtsSdw007bGhqepf4BUrc7lHw7VQ04VkZ9UYRfUAv/s4032/IMG_1400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64Ba_O9GUjFBKk0xmY1qFv1iLBKugevBY2wq_wKEkl_3PrrgUbm59jqAmkVsuIk9jiznwXtzrQMBxevS8weOBbAaa4Q5oW61dA6j9KgOwahmIHFc8S9YwBovDZMGe4wg_yeOjBaHu6izwl4aJtsSdw007bGhqepf4BUrc7lHw7VQ04VkZ9UYRfUAv/s320/IMG_1400.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Szechuan style Prawns<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">The meal
rounded off with Golden Garlic Fried Rice, dotted with small peeled prawns, reminiscent
of the piles of small prawns that I used to peel after our grandmother did her
weekly shopping for the family.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">Our festive
meal at Hop Sing came to a sweet end with a warm dessert of Red Bean Soup with
Tangerine Peel where the brew was blended into a rich, smooth blend.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 109.95pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">Hop
Sing, the Chinese Restaurant at Ponderosa Golf & Country Club, is on Level One
of the main club-house at No. 3 Jalan Ponderosa 1/1, Taman Ponderosa, 81100
Johor Baru, Johor. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 106%;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggd2iLdVh2aAtHazpdFm-evlWU1u_RUlEpXdWVdmu2z6VsKHPr0GlWNfphjWPHdMi8Qh9Txx5OqzphV5Mds4li3H8kXRrb-sCn9GBYK2pQrETt61VE8V1POnCBbJBb0Ua-fGMtr_ogXDKsA7fWwzzZ1VF_Ect9J3VRYn0KDByqf5GpvvNR_1ZsWRlO/s4032/IMG_1401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggd2iLdVh2aAtHazpdFm-evlWU1u_RUlEpXdWVdmu2z6VsKHPr0GlWNfphjWPHdMi8Qh9Txx5OqzphV5Mds4li3H8kXRrb-sCn9GBYK2pQrETt61VE8V1POnCBbJBb0Ua-fGMtr_ogXDKsA7fWwzzZ1VF_Ect9J3VRYn0KDByqf5GpvvNR_1ZsWRlO/s320/IMG_1401.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small prawns in the Golden Garlic Fried Rice</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: georgia;">Open
from 11am to 2.30pm for lunch and from 6pm to 9pm for dinner. Dine-in, takeaway
and delivery orders are welcome.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Food
from Hop Sing is prepared with No Pork and No Lard as all ingredients used are
sourced from Halal food suppliers. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 102.7pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">More
details on the Lunar Year of the Dragon menus and resort promotions are on
website: ponderosagolf.com</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">For
reservations or to order, Tel: 019 – 728 8464 or 019 – 758 8272 or email:
enquiry@ponderosagolf.com. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 106%; margin-bottom: 0cm; tab-stops: 80.95pt 278.5pt;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 106%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></p>Peggy Lohhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09083379159211271386noreply@blogger.com0