SO Staff

A symphonic escapde at MANDARIN ORIENTAL,MACAU

Mandarin Oriental, Macau has launched two luxury accommodation packages for classical music lovers who wish to experience Macau’s 2018/19 Concert Season. Guests booking either the hotel’s A Symphonic Escapade in Macau or An Exclusive Orchestra Evening will receive two VIP concert tickets and other benefits, including 30% reduction on spa treatments.

Concerts featured in the hotel’s two room offers will be highlights of the Macao Orchestra’s 2018/19 Concert Season and performed at the Macao Cultural Centre Grand Auditorium.Guests booking A Symphonic Escapade in Macau can choose to attend one of three concerts the Macao Orchestra has organised in collaboration with internationally renowned musicians, conductors and ensembles:

  • 25 November 2018: National Geographic: Symphony for Our World

Multimedia concert featuring National Geographic natural history footage with live orchestral performance

  • 16 February 2019: Valentine’s Day Concert
  1. Schumann: Overture to Genoveva; C. Schumann: Piano Concerto in A minor

Brahms: Symphony No.4 in E minor

Conductor: Lio Kuokman       Pianist: Chen Sa

  • 27 July 2019: 2018-19 Season Closing Concert

Beethoven: Violin Concerto in D Major

Schubert: Symphony No.9 in C Major

Conductor: Lu Jia                    Violinist: Kyung Wha Chung

The Symphonic Escapade in Macau package is a one-night stay for two priced from HKD2,599++, and includes:

  • Accommodation in a Deluxe City View Room
  • Breakfast at Vida Rica Restaurant for two
  • Two VIP concert tickets (not available for children under six years of age)
  • 30% savings on spa treatments

The hotel’s second luxury room package for classical music aficionados, An Exclusive Orchestra Evening, is offered to guests wishing to celebrate opening night of the 2018/19 Concert Season on 1 September 2018 or New Year’s Eve on 31 December 2018:

  • 1 September 2018: 2018-19 Season Opening Concert

Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No.1 in F-Sharp minor

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

Conductor: Lu Jia                    Pianist: Barry Douglas

  • 31 December 2018: Starry Vienna – New Year Concert
  1. Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier Suite

Suppé: Overture to Light Cavalry, and more…

Conductor: Arvo Volmer        Soprano: He Hui

The Exclusive Orchestra Evening package is a one-night stay for two priced from HKD 4,699++, and includes:

  • Accommodation in a Deluxe City View Room
  • Breakfast at Vida Rica Restaurant for two
  • Two VIP concert tickets (not available for children under six years of age)
  • 30% savings on spa treatments

For further information and reservations, please log on to www.mandarinoriental.com/macau.

When booking either A Symphonic Escapade in Macau or An Exclusive Orchestra Evening, supplementary charges will be applied to Bed & Breakfast rates for extensions of stay and the 30% spa saving does not apply to manicure and pedicure treatments.

Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day Kini Kembali

Shopee, platform e-dagang utama di Asia Tenggara dan Taiwan, telah melancarkan pesta beli-belah tahunan terbesarnya, Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day.  Berikutan kejayaan acara 9.9 tahun lepas, yang mencatatkan peningkatan pesanan sebanyak tiga kali ganda dan pertambahan kunjungan tapak web sebanyak lima kali ganda, Shopee memeriahkan lagi pesta tahun ini dengan menganjurkan acara beli-belah mega 14 hari dari 27 Ogos hingga 9 September.

Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day, yang membabitkan lebih 10,000 penjual, 120 jenama, dan 40 rakan korporat, membawakan pelbagai tawaran hebat kepada pengguna meliputi semua kategori produk. Malah menjelang 9 September, Shopee akan mengadakan hari bertema hebat, setiap satu dengan promosi menarik, termasuk jualan kilat dan potongan sehingga 99% atas pelbagai produk berasaskan tema tawaran pada hari berkenaan.

“Shopee telah berkembang pesat tahun lepas, dan kami kini menjadi destinasi beli-belah pilihan bagi pembeli dan penjual bukan sahaja di Malaysia, tetapi juga di seluruh rantau. Ini merupakan tahun ketiga kami menganjurkan pesta beli-belah tahunan 9.9 di Malaysia, dan dijangka menjadi acara terbesar pernah kami anjurkan. Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day telah dilancarkan sebagai tanda penghargaan kepada semua pengguna kami; sejajar dengan itu, kami terus mengukuhkan hubungan dengan jenama terkemuka untuk membawakan lebih banyak tawaran eksklusif, dan melancarkan inisiatif baharu dalam usaha menambah baik pengalaman beli-belah keseluruhan,” kata Ian Ho, Pengarah Urusan Serantau Shopee di majlis pelancaran.

Manfaat hari bertema hebat, termasuk Jualan Hebat Mengejut

Mulai 27 Ogos, pengguna boleh menikmati acara beli-belah maraton tanpa henti selama 14 hari, dengan hari bertema setiap 24 jam secara berturut-turut.  Setiap hari, pengguna boleh memanfaatkan pelbagai promosi dengan tema harian, bermula dengan Pesta Jenama Hebat (Super Brands Festival) pada 27 Ogos. Dalam Pesta Jenama Hebat, rakyat Malaysia boleh memanfaatkan tawaran luar biasa dengan potongan sehingga 99% untuk produk paling hangat daripada pelbagai jenama kegemaran ramai termasuk Nestle, L’Oreal, Russell Taylors, honor, Mead Johnson, Elianware, Her Jewellery, Thunder Match, Watsons dan PETPET. Tambahan lagi, Shopee telah berganding bahu dengan rakan korporat seperti Citibank, VISA, Hong Leong Bank dan BHP untuk terus menambah nilai bagi pelanggan selepas mereka tidak lagi berada dalam talian.

Pengguna boleh merebut tawaran hebat produk selebriti paling hangat di Shopee Celebrity Squad. Sejak pelancaran pada bulan Mei, Shopee Celebrity Squad telah mendapat sambutan hangat daripada peminat bintang-bintang tempatan termasuk Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza, Nora Danish dan Emma Maembong.

Pastikan anda mengingati tarikh 9 September kerana Shopee akan mengadakan 9 pusingan menarik Jualan Kilat (Shocking Sale) yang menjanjikan potongan 99% bagi produk paling popular. Di samping itu, pengguna juga boleh mendapatkan baucar eksklusif menawarkan diskaun besar bagi pelbagai kategori produk termasuk Barangan Pengguna Laris (FMCG), Fesyen, Elektronik, dan Gaya Hidup.

Shopee Shake dengan tabung 99 juta syiling Shopee

Sejak dilancarkan tahun lepas, Shopee Shake Shake telah dimainkan sebanyak 70 juta kali oleh beribu-ribu pengguna. Untuk terus menggalakkan permainan Shopee Shake sempena Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day, Shopee akan menambah tabung syiling kepada jumlah luar biasa 99 juta syiling sepanjang kempen. Bukan itu sahaja, Shopee akan berbuat demikian secara ‘kaw kaw’ dengan membuka 9 slot masa pada 9 September, dengan 2 permainan setiap pengguna untuk setiap slot; supaya pemain boleh menggoncang dan menang sehingga 18 kali setiap 24 jam.

Tawaran yang disediakan bukan sahaja lebih besar dan lebih baik, Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day juga bakal menghimpunkan peruncit dan peserta industri yang terbesar di negara ini. Sebagai sebahagian daripada pelancaran 9.9 Super Shopping Day, Shopee akan menganjurkan perbincangan panel bertajuk Membina Ekosistem E-dagang Serba Maju Menerusi Pakatan Strategik, melibatkan para pemimpin daripada jenama terkenal seperti PayNet, RHB, KLFW, Digi dan XES yang berkongsi idea untuk menyuburkan ekosistem e-dagang di Malaysia.

“E-dagang di Malaysia semakin berkembang maju, dan berasaskan pakatan kukuh dengan industri, pengguna dapat menikmati kemudahan pembayaran dan logistik lebih baik, pilihan produk lebih luas, ciri lebih menyenangkan dan tawaran lebih menarik untuk membeli produk kegemaran mereka. Kami telah membawakan rangkaian tawaran dan promosi menyeluruh yang disesuaikan mengikut selera pengguna kami untuk Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day dan kami yakin pembeli pasti gembira dengan pengalaman beli-belah tiada tandingan di acara beli-belah serantau terbesar kami,” rumus Ho.

Kunjungi shopee.com.my/99 untuk mendapatkan maklumat lanjut. Muat turun Aplikasi Shopee secara PERCUMA menerusi Apple App Store atau Google Play Store.

Lim Wen Suen, Winner of The Voice Singapore & Malaysia, joins Universal Music Group

Lim Wen Suen, champion of The Voice Singapore & Malaysia 2017, has officially joined Universal Music Group. In conjunction with the signing, Wen Suen has released her highly anticipated brand new single, The World Will Remember My Name《這世界終會記得我的名字》on available on all digital music platforms on 24 August 2018.

Following the inaugural season of The Voice Singapore & Malaysia last year, Wen Suen and the rest of the top 8 finalists recorded a compilation album. Appreciative of all the support they’ve gotten throughout the competition, the top 8 finalists did an extensive promotional tour in Malaysia. Since then, Wen Suen’s been focusing on producing this new single. She hopes to share a different and lesser known side of herself as compared to what her fans already know her for.

Lim Wen Suen

Widely known for her powerhouse vocals, The World Will Remember My Name is a mixture of pop and traditional folk genre. The song is written and produced by renowned Malaysian producer, Guan Qiyuan (管启源). During recording, Guan guided and challenged Wen Suen to deviate from her usual singing style in order to present herself in her rawest form. With that in mind, Wen Suen managed to finish recording her vocals in just an hour.

Wen Suen joked, “Guan wanted me to steer away from the singing techniques that I’m used to, and suddenly I felt like I didn’t know how to sing at all.”

While it is not Wen Suen’s first time collaborating with Guan, it is through the production of this single that Wen Suen made a lasting impression on him. Despite being known for her vocal prowess, Guan intentionally made Wen Suen sing in low notes for the song. Wen Suen’s real challenge was to hit the low notes at the start of the song. Instead of letting Wen Suen do her vocal warmups before recording, Guan specifically reminded her not to warm up her vocals so that she would not start the song on a perfect high note.

After emerging as the champion of The Voice, Wen Suen’s popularity soared. She has since received many performing opportunities too. While there is some pressure on her for this single following her win, Wen Suen is still thankful for all the support she has been receiving.  and will strive to work towards creating more great music for all to enjoy.

With a major record slated to be released in Q4 of 2018 and coupled with a strong vocal prowess that belies her petite stature, this is one name that you will remember – Lim Wen Suen.

HUA FUNG TEH named chairman of ONE CHAMPIONSHIP in CHINA

The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has just announced that Hua Fung Teh has been named Chairman of ONE Championship in China. Teh also serves as the company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). He joined ONE Championship in January of 2018.

Teh has extensive knowledge and experience in China’s business circuit. He was formerly a Principal at leading global private equity firm TPG Capital (TPG), where he was a key leader in the origination, evaluation, and execution of investments deals across Greater China and Southeast Asia for over 6 years.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “Hua Fung has done incredible work with ONE Championship over the past few months since joining the company. His dedication to growing our scale while delivering fans a unique and authentic martial arts experience has changed the game for us. I am proud to announce that he will be taking on more responsibility as Chairman of ONE Championship in China. I have full confidence that he can lead our operations in China and bring it to the next level.”

HUA FUNG TEH, Chairman of ONE Championship in China

Hua Fung Teh, Chairman of ONE Championship in China, stated: “It is an honor to be appointed as Chairman of ONE Championship in China, a country with a long and respected tradition of martial arts going back thousands of years. I look forward to engaging with our local partners, athletes and fans, and helping our team further grow ONE Championship’s footprint and fan base in the country. The China market is incredibly important for us, and we are doing everything we can to achieve success. In addition, I have a deep personal affection and respect for China, having spent a lot of time and made many friends there. My late grandparents were also from Southern China, so there is a personal connection for me as well. I am very excited to start working with our amazing partners and team in China.”

Teh will continue to serve as CFO of ONE Championship, where he oversees various aspects of the company’s operations including finance, human resources, corporate development, media rights and digital partnerships.

Prior to his time at TPG Capital, Teh held various leadership positions in Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). At MTI, he was a key member of the team that brought Formula One (F1) racing to Singapore and organized the first night race in F1 history in 2008. He was also an aviator with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF), where he operated F-16 fighter jets.

A graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard Business School, he sits on the Global Steering Committee of the Milken Institute Young Leaders Circle, and is a member of The Forum of Young Global Leaders at the World Economic Forum.

For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

RUFFEDGE – ‘SEPERTI MEREKA’

Hampir 10 tahun menyepi tanpa karya terbaru, kumpulan Ruffedge kembali mewarnai arena muzik tempatan dengan single terbaru berjudul ‘Seperti Mereka’.

Sekian lama hilang dari persada seni, Ruffedge kembali mencuri perhatian peminat pada awal tahun ini apabila muncul membuat persembahan dalam majlis Anugerah MeleTOP Era 2018. Kemunculan semula Ruffedge menimbulkan suasana keterujaan dikalangan peminat muzik tanahair, lebih-lebih lagi apabila Ruffedge mengumumkan penganjuran konsert perdana mereka ‘Ruffedge: 20th Anniversary’ yang bakal berlangsung di KL Live pada  4 Ogos nanti. Sebagai pelengkap episod kemunculan semula mereka di persada muzik tempatan, singleSeperti Mereka’ dirakam khas untuk peminat setia Ruffedge yang merindui karya terbaru daripada mereka.

Di zaman kegemilangan mereka, kumpulan yang dianggotai oleh Cat Farish, Azan, Zain, Mode, Sein dan Amir ini pernah popular menerusi lagu-lagu seperti Tipah Tertipu, Bila Rindu, Goyang, Khayalan, Da’ Bomb, Lemas dan banyak lagi. Kumpulan yang mendukung genre R&B dan hip hop sejak awal kemunculan mereka pada tahun 1998 ini, tetap mengekalkan genre muzik yang sama dalam ‘Seperti Mereka’. Lagu yang mengangkat tema cinta ini diberikan sentuhan muzik  R&B soul seperti lagu hit mereka terdahulu Bila Rindu. Single pertama Ruffedge selepas 10 tahun ini merupakan hasil ciptaan penuh anggota kumpulan itu sendiri iaitu Azan Addin.

Seperti Mereka’ merupakan single terbitan MKZ Network dengan kerjasama Warner Music Malaysia sebagai pengedar. Single ini boleh didapati di kesemua pelantar digital seperti Spotify, iTunes, KKBox, Deezer, Joox dan juga Apple Music bermula pada 3 OGOS 2018 di pautan ini:

Seperti yang semua tahu, Ruffedge telah mengeluarkan single terbaru mereka yang berjudul “Seperti Mereka”. Oleh itu, Ruffedge sedang mengadakan contest yang membolehkan para peserta untuk menghantar video pertunangan atau video perkahwinan mereka dan pemenang akan berpeluang untuk diletakkan di dalam Music Video Seperti Mereka. Durasi video adalah minimum 2 minit dan mestilah di dalam format HD. Video boleh dihantar ke warnermusic.my@gmail.com dan tarikh penyertaan adalah daripada 14 Ogos 2018 hingga 21 Ogos 2018. Contest ini akan dijalankan di Akaun Instagram Ruffedge sendiri.

VistaJet adds Michelin stars to the Mid-Autumn Festival with on-board Cantonese dining by Duddell’s

VistaJet, the first and only global business aviation company, today announces its collaboration with Duddell’s, the Michelin-starred culinary, cultural and social destination in Hong Kong.  Together Duddell’s and VistaJet will create an exclusive in-flight menu and limited-edition mooncakes to celebrate the upcoming Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival.  The exquisite food is not limited to the air – guests will be able to enjoy the VistaJet menu in September, at Duddell’s restaurants in both Hong Kong and London, which offer classic Cantonese favorites in a refined and artistic setting.

Duddell’s coveted cream custard mooncakes will also be made available outside of their Hong Kong restaurant for the first time. The delicacies will come in a limited-edition gift box and bag featuring artwork by celebrated Hong Kong-based painter Chu Hing Wah. This piece is inspired by the artist’s past celebrations with his own family in Yuen Long. Chu Hing Wah’s rich color selection references the joy found in gathering, the liveliness of the Mid-Autumn Festival, and an atmosphere of pure celebration.

Abalone and Chicken Soup

The exclusive festive offering is dedicated to all VistaJet Members’ appreciating fine dining experiences and looking for suggestive ways to celebrate the holiday. The seasonal menu for flights departing from Hong Kong is comprised of double-boiled black chicken soup with qi zi herbs and fish maw, a rich and nutritious dish brimming with collagen from the fish maw, and the Cantonese delicacy braised whole African abalone 5 heads with shiitake mushroom in supreme abalone sauce stewed to perfection over low heat for nine hours. Duddell’s London will also present its own menu for flights departing from the city, including European favorites and regional variations.

“We are thrilled to be collaborating with Duddell’s for our Mid-Autumn Festival celebration this year,” said Leona Qi, President of Asia at VistaJet. “The idea behind the campaign starts with our shared passion for curating one-of-a-kind discovery experiences. The festive menu and the gift of mooncakes represent the essence of Cantonese cuisine and Chinese culture. Both VistaJet and Duddell’s match welcoming attitude and a passion for art, to create the perfect surrounding to share good food and holiday celebration.”

Cabin Hostess in air

Following the launch of VistaJet’s Adventures in the Sky, the most extensive travelers’ program designed for children at high altitude, the Mid-Autumn Festival celebration adds to VistaJet’s series of innovative programs to enhance customers’ travel experience. VistaJet is the only private jet company to fly to 96% of the world, but being global is not only about geography – it is also about discovering, respecting, and representing traditions and tastes from all countries and regions.

BOH lancar NEGARAUMMPH TV Sempena Hari Kebangsaan

Seiring dengan sambutan Hari Kebangsaan Ke-61, BOH Plantations Sdn Bhd (BOH) telah melancarkan saluran TV dalam talian, yang dinamakan NegaraUmmph TV. Ia merupakan satu pergerakan di seluruh negara yang menjemput semua rakyat Malaysia untuk bernyanyi sehati sejiwa demi negara.

Saluran 24 jam ini akan disiarkan pada Hari Kebangsaan, bermula dari jam 12.00 tengah malam. Ia bertujuan memaparkan nyanyian ‘Negaraku’ oleh rakyat Malaysia dengan penuh kegembiraan dan kebanggaan, sekaligus menjadi peringatan bagi semua betapa uniknya Malaysia dan bagaimana keunikan negara ini harus dirayakan.

NegaraUmmph TV berpegang kepada misi untuk menyemarakkan semangat perpaduan dan kekitaan terhadap tanah air, tanpa mengira perbezaan latar belakang setiap individu. Oleh itu,  pada Hari Kebangsaan ini, BOH menyeru semua rakyat Malaysia agar menunjukkan semangat ‘Ummph!’ mereka.

 “Lepak. Mamak. Nasi lemak. Badminton. Bola Sepak. Teh Tarik, semuanya menarik! Sebagai seorang rakyat Malaysia yang bangga, kami meraikan sifat-sifat kebudayaan unik ini yang melambangkan identiti kita sebagai anak Malaysia. Namun, Hari Kebangsaan tahun ini adalah lebih mengujakan berbanding dengan Hari Kebangsaan sebelum ini. Memandangkan persekitaran kita semakin berubah, kami berharap untuk melihat lebih ramai rakyat Malaysia yang bangga dan penuh semangat ‘Ummph’,” demikian kata Chen Chaw Chang, Ketua Pegawai Komersial BOH Plantations.

“Sebagai pengeluar teh tempatan, BOH telah menjadi sebati dengan budaya minum teh di Malaysia untuk selama 90 tahun. Namun, kami bukan sekadar ingin menyajikan teh sahaja. Di BOH, kami bertekad untuk berkhidmat kepada masyarakat di Malaysia dengan cara yang lebih bermakna. Justeru itu, NegaraUmmph TV bukan sahaja mencerminkan dedikasi kami untuk memperkaya pengalaman bagi semua rakyat Malaysia, tetapi ia juga membuktikan komitmen kami untuk terlibat dalam setiap detik bahagia dan perayaan dalam kehidupan peminat-peminat teh di seluruh negara,” tambah beliau.

Rakyat Malaysia yang ingin menyertai pergerakan bermakna ini boleh melayari NegaraUmmph TV di www.negaraummph.tv untuk menghantar versi ‘Negaraku’ mereka yang tersendiri. Penyertaan akan dimuat naik ke saluran NegaraUmmph TV, yang akan disiarkan selama 24 jam pada 12 tengah malam, hari Jumaat, 31 Ogos 2018.

 

Shilla Stay Haeundae

It may be best known as the host city of one of Asia’s most important film festivals and a key transfer port, but the South Korean coastal metropolis of Busan is the ideal destination for those seeking an adventurous getaway or a cultural escape.

From the famed Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) Square – where the world-famous festival is held each October – to historical temples, quaint villages, seafood markets, and stylish retail districts, jetsetters have more than one reason to make a stop here.

  1. Beauty and the Beach

The city’s sprawling beaches make Busan a popular destination for sun lovers. Laid back, yet still bustling, Haeundae Beach is one of Korea’s most beautiful beaches featuring natural untouched wonders. For foodies, Haeundae also offers a variety of local delicacies, from restaurants specialising in king crab and cold noodles, to street vendors peddling fish sticks and steamed dumplings.

With sweeping views of the ocean, Shilla Stay Haeundae is located just a two-minute walk away from the picturesque Haeundae Beach. The property features a relaxed, residential-style design with clean lines and soft hues that showcase the surrounding coastal region. Six room types are available, including the Ondol Suite which recreates an authentic Korean underfloor heating system for guests looking to experience a traditional Korean home.

  1. Cuisine Scene

Given its location, Busan offers an abundance of fresh seafood. For the best finds, locals direct visitors to the Jagalchi Market, often likened to Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji Market, where varieties of live and dried seafood are prepared in different ways. For a distinctive dining experience, Shilla Stay Haeundae’s Café serves a wide selection of fresh seafood as part of its daily buffet available throughout the day. Guests can also lounge and soak up the sun in the hotel’s rooftop pool, which overlooks the panoramic beachfront, while enjoying refreshing drinks and snacks from the poolside bar.

  1. Village People

The second most populous city after Seoul, Busan has its share of cultural attractions that capture the old-world charm of Korea’s rich heritage. Gamcheon Cultural Village consists of hundreds of tiny, colourful houses, shops and buildings dotted throughout a maze of small, winding streets. Built on surrounding hills with views overlooking the sea, the Village rises above the city and is known as the “Santorini of Korea”. The Village’s hand-drawn murals and sculptures create a living art installation and a picture-perfect hotspot for visitors.

Haedong Yonggung Temple Photo credit Busan Tourism Organization
  1. Culture Trip

Another scenic landmark, the Haedong Yonggung Temple is a breathtaking temple perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the East Sea. Dating back to the 13th century and built by a legendary Buddhist teacher, the temple is nestled between the sea and mountains and boasts a beautiful three-storey pagoda that represents tranquil harmony. For panoramic views of the city, Busan’s newest attraction, the Busan Air Cruise, offers a magnificent 1.6 kilometer journey above the sea in glass-enclosed cable cars.

  1. Bargain and Barter

Korea is renowned for its shopping – endless malls selling clothes, makeup, and accessories – and Busan is no exception. The lavish Shinsegae Centum City is listed in the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest department store, housing countless brands as well as entertainment options, including an indoor golf range and spa.

Shilla Stay Haeundae_Rooftop Chicken & Beer

A vibrant and energetic city, Busan offers a unique insight into Korean culture. Visitors will embrace the convivial atmosphere, lively beach scene, and variety of little-known attractions waiting to be discovered.

For a seamless getaway, a “Welcome to Korea” package is available at Shilla Stay Haeundae, which includes a Busan City Tour Bus Ticket (one-day pass), complimentary breakfast*, and exclusive Shilla Stay teddy bear gift. Room rates start at KRW 114,000** per night, based on two persons sharing a room. More information is available at http://www.shillastay.com/haeundae/index.do.

*Terms and conditions apply. 

**Excludes taxes and service charge.

Starbucks Malaysia Unveils Exclusive Designer Collection with Malaysian Designer Rico Rinaldi

Starbucks today announced its first collaboration with Malaysian designer Rico Rinaldi to offer a curated collection of exclusive merchandise to celebrate Merdeka. Designed exclusively for Starbucks Malaysia and available only for a limited time, the 2018 Rico Rinaldi x Starbucks® Designer Collection will be offered at Starbucks stores throughout Malaysia.

The merchandise draws inspiration from three endangered animals representing the elements of nature – Forest, Sea and Air in the form of a Harimau (Tiger), a Penyu (Turtle) and a Kenyalang (Hornbill). Bold colors that are reminiscent of Malaysia’s heritage, flag and the diverse flora and fauna help round out the designs.

“Designing this collection, I was inspired by Malaysia’s rich nature. I am thankful for Starbucks for this unique opportunity to commemorate our 61st National Day, and I hope my fans and Starbucks customers alike will enjoy the collection,” says Rico Rinaldi, a well-known fashion designer in Malaysia for his nature-inspired collections and colorful floral prints.

As design enthusiasts, Starbucks has a history of innovative partnerships with fashion’s elite. Over the years, Starbucks has collaborated with Anna Sui, Vivienne Tam, Paul & Joe to bring designer products to customers in stores. However, the Rico Rinaldi + Starbucks® collection is the first Malaysian collaboration and is exclusive to Malaysia. Through this exclusive designer collection, Starbucks hopes to bring the unique cultural experiences of Malaysia to its customers.

“We are excited to be introducing this collection, the first Starbucks partnership with a Malaysian designer to inspire and delight our customers as they express their love for Malaysia,” said Sydney Quays, Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Food Berhad and Managing Director of Starbucks Malaysia and Brunei.  “The designs that Rico shared with us celebrates a very important part of Malaysia, and we are thrilled to be able to share that message through our merchandise for Merdeka this year.

The Rico Rinaldi + Starbucks® collection includes the following pieces:

  • Rico Rinaldi + Starbucks® Double Walled Mug (12 fl oz) – A ceramic mug with painted ceramic lid and gold detailing on the rim.
  • Rico Rinaldi + Starbucks® Thermos Tumbler (20 fl oz) – Thermos stainless steel tumbler with spill proof lid.

Exclusive to Malaysia, the Rico Rinaldi + Starbucks® collection includes a set of Double Walled Mugs and Thermos Tumblers in three different designs. The Double Walled Mugs are priced at RM150 each, while the Thermos Tumblers are priced at RM168 each. For those looking to own all-three designs of the Double Walled Mugs, can purchase them in a bundle price of RM450 or RM480 for all-three designs of the Thermos Tumblers.

This collection will be available from 31 August 2018 onwards at all Starbucks stores across Malaysia, while stocks last.

For more information, please visit the Starbucks Malaysia’s website at www.starbucks.com.my.

 

The Canon PhotoMarathon Malaysia is Back

If you have ever wondered what you may achieve in pursuit of your passion for photography then just ask Mohammad Norfarhan Bahron, the winner of the Canon PhotoMarathon Malaysia 2017. Farhan is the first Malaysian to emerge victorious at the Canon Photo Marathon Asia Championship 2018, beating 16 others from 11 countries and regions around Asia.

Farhan dabbled in freelance photography before leaving his career as a hotel chef to pursue his passion full-time, and now runs his own company called Paan Pictures.

“The Canon PhotoMarathon is more than just a competition as it offers participants a learning opportunity that can contribute to their aspiration in taking their interest in photography to the next level. Being part of this competition and being recognised for my talent has really contributed to my photography journey,” said Farhan.

Bring out the best of your skills at the Canon PhotoMarathon Malaysia 2018!

The highly anticipated Canon PhotoMarathon Malaysia returns to thrill the local photography community on 20 October 2018 (Saturday) at Sunway Pyramid, Subang Jaya, Selangor. Hosting the competition for the 12th year, Canon Marketing (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. welcomes photography fans from across the nation to display their talent and eye for capturing stunning images in this exciting one-day competition.

Fast-paced and challenging, participants strive to create photographic masterpieces under a time pressure based on three themes announced during the competition day. The biggest photo shooting competition of its kind in Malaysia, the event held in Kuala Lumpur last year attracted over 1000 enthusiasts of all ages and levels of experience.

“The photography scene in Malaysia is thriving with many enthusiasts making it a serious hobby or career choice. As a digital imaging solutions leader, we are committed to making photography a special experience for everyone, and through the Canon PhotoMarathon we look forward to seeing some exceptional work,” said Andrew Koh, President and Chief Executive Officer of Canon Marketing Malaysia.

The competition is part of Canon’s larger purpose to cultivate a photography culture by giving aspiring photographers a platform to develop their technical skills, push their creative boundaries and showcase their talent to a wide audience.

Participants can compete in one of two categories, either the “Open” or “Student” categories. There is also a “Varsity Challenge” category that is by invitation only for higher education institutions.

This year, renowned photographers Fazry Ismail, Chai Kok Leong and Bonnie Yap will judge the photo submissions.

Fazry, chief photographer of the European Pressphoto Agency (EPA) in Malaysia, started his career at The Star and Malaysia Gazette. He has covered the 2016 Summer and 2018 Winter Olympics as well as other cultural and breaking stories. Award-wining Chai Kok Leong is an ambassador of the Wedding Portrait Photographers Asia and a qualified member of The Master Photographers Association of United Kingdom. He also runs photography seminars and workshops in Malaysia and overseas. Canon EOS Ambassador Bonnie Yap, known for her indoor studio food shoots, entertainment, travel and fashion photography, was with The Star for 12 years and has travelled to the Artic and Antarctica for her photography pursuits.

Jeffrey Kung, Head of Consumer Imaging & Information Group of Canon Marketing Malaysia said that photography is able to connect people through imagery which captures inspiring and cherished moments.

“Canon PhotoMarathon fuels that connection by bringing together photography fans to share their passion, common interests and skills in an exciting and challenging environment which will add value to their photographic journey,” Kung added.

To help Canon PhotoMarathon participants prepare for the competition, the brand will host the ‘Canon PhotoDrill’ which will feature four selected photography enthusiasts who will be sharing exclusive tips and recommended spots for great shots. This digital photography bootcamp will also feature an Instagram contest that will run from 24 August to 23 September 2018 to dial up the competitive spirit leading to the Canon PhotoMarathon. Each week, a series of ‘PhotoDrill’ locations will be revealed, and enthusiasts will need to take a photo at the spot and hashtag it accordingly to stand a chance to win exciting prizes from Canon.

Participants can look forward to a unique finisher’s medal this year that is part of a three-piece collection consisting of a camera body, flash and lens cap, with two unique key chains. They will be awarded the individual parts in a series starting this year and at the Canon PhotoMarathon Malaysia 2019 and 2020.

Over RM150,000 worth of attractive prizes await the winners of all categories. The grand prize winner of the Open Category will receive an exclusive all-expense-paid photography trip to Japan to participate in the Canon Photo Marathon Asia Championship and a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR camera. First prize winners for the Open and Student category will take home a Canon EOS 6D Mark II DSLR and Canon EOS M5 Mirrorless camera respectively. The winner of the Varsity Challenge category will walk away with a RM4,000 voucher for Canon’s official store in Lazada Malaysia, a challenge trophy and a EOS Club set-up in their school by Canon Marketing Malaysia. Other prizes include Canon EOS 80D, Canon EOS M50, Canon EOS M100 cameras, the Canon Speedlite 430EX III RT flash and a host of exciting items from our sponsors Western Digital, Viewsonic and Grab.

The 12th Canon PhotoMarathon Malaysia will be held on 20 October 2018 (Saturday), from 7.00am to 8.00pm, at Sunway Pyramid, Subang Jaya, Selangor.

Those interested can register via http://bit.ly/mycpm2018 , or register on the event day at the registration booth before 9.00am.

Participants are required to bring along their Identification Cards or Passports for verification purposes; children under the age of 18 years old are required to fill in a parental consent form. The registration fee is RM30 for Open category and RM20 for Student category. Walk in registration fee is RM50 for both categories.

For more information, please visit https://photomarathon.canon-asia.com or follow the Canon Marketing Malaysia’s Official Facebook page at

https://www.facebook.com/CanonMalaysia.

KONSERT AMAL DOA BUAT KEKASIH

Tidak ada siapa yang mahu kehilangan cinta. Namun kehilangan mengajar erti kesabaran dan ketabahan serta bagaimana meraih semangat untuk bangkit semula bagi meneruskan hari-hari yang mendatang.

Secara simbolik, inilah elemen utama yang cuba diangkat dalam Konsert Amal Doa Buat Kekasih yang bakal berlangsung di Persada Johor international Convention Centre pada 1 September 2018.

Konsert amal yang bakal dijayakan oleh Datuk Ramli Sarip bersama Dayang Nurfaizah dan Ayai Ilusi ini dianjurkan Yayasan Kanser Tunku Laksamana Johor (YKTLJ) dengan kerjasama Rasa Karya Music Sdn Bhd dan MG Network dengan tujuan meraih dana bagi membantu pesakit-pesakit kanser yang memerlukan bantuan kos rawatan dan perubatan.

Pada waktu yang sama ia juga diharap dapat menyuntik rasa prihatin dan kesedaran mengenai penyakit kanser di kalangan masyarakat dengan Iebih mendalam lagi bersesuaian dengan objektif penubuhan YKTLJ.

“Kita mensasarkan sumbangan daripada syarikat-syarikat korporat dan individu bagi menjayakan konsert amal sambii berhibur. Kita juga akan menjemput pejuangpejuang kanser untuk sama-sama hadir menikmati konsert ini bersama dengan DYMM Raja Zarith Sofiah Binti Alharhum Sultan ldris Shah, Permaisuri Johor merangkap Penaung YKTLJ”. Kata Y.B Dato’ Ismail Bin Karim, Ahli Lembaga Pengarah YKTLJ merangkap Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Penganjur Program.

Menurut Encik Mohd Anizam Bin Jamian, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif YKTLJ pula, untuk edisi yang julung kalinya diadakan ini pihak YKTLJ mensasarkan kutipan sebanyak RM3 juta daripada pakej penajaan penjuaian meja Platinum bernilai RM100 ribu, pakej Gold RM50 ribu, pakej Silver RM30 ribu dan Bronze RM10 ribu.

Mengangkat lagu Doa Buat Kekasih yang dinyanyikan serta dipopularkan Datuk Ramli Sarip sebagai pemilihan tajuk konsert amal ini, kehebatan lagu yang memiliki nuansa muzik pop penuh kemelayuan ini bukan hanya terletak kepada hook melodinya yang cukup santai, catchy, easy listening serta mudah dinyanyikan bersama, sebaliknya ia memiliki nukilan lirik yang cukup positif mengenai sebuah perpisahan cinta.

Tidak hairanlah mengapa ia berjaya mencetuskan fenomena cukup luar biasa di dalam senario industri muzik Malaysia dan seluruh gugusan kepulauan Melayu terutama Singapura, Brunei dan lndonesia.

“Setiap perpisahan itu tidak semestinya harus berakhir dengan kepahitan. Adakalanya kita harus reda dengan ketentuan dan mendoakan kekasih kita itu, biarpun hubungan telah pun berakhir. la sebuah lagu perpisahan yang positif serta matang,” kata Datuk Ramli Sarip sewaktu membuka rahsia mengenai lagu yang digubahnya serta liriknya ditulis Hartinah Ahmad itu.

“Lagu tersebut sudah mencecah usia 30 tahun. Idea untuk menghasilkan lagu Doa Buat Kekasih tercetus selepas popularnya lagu Up Where We Belong nyanyian Joe Cocker & Jennifer Warnes. Terfikir saya mengapa tidak saya hasilkan lagu duet. Kebetulan industri muzik kita memang ketandusan lagu-lagu berbentuk duet, lebihlebih Iagi pada era 80-an.

Namun, konsert ini nanti akan mengetengahkan segmen persembahan solo setiap penyanyi dengan mengangkat lagu hits masing-masing.

Konsert Amal Doa Buat Kekasih 2018 ini adalah sebahagian daripada rentetan perjalanan Konsert Doa Buat Kekasih 30th Anniversary Tour 2018 bakal berlangsung di beberapa lokasi terpilih di seluruh negara termasuklah di lstana Budaya pada 6 Oktober dan Dewan Konsert Esplanade Singapura (17 Oktober 2018).

Konsert Doa Buat Kekasih 30th Anniversary Tour 2018 di Dewan Konsert Esplanade Singapura pada adalah hasil kerjasama bersama AlN Society (Social Services Organization for Cancer Patient).

Seperti lazimnya, Konsert Amal Doa Buat Kekasih 2018 yang dijayakan Datuk Ramli Sarip, Dayang Nurfaizah serta Ayai llusi ini turut mendapat khidmat iringan pemuzik profesional, Soul Journey yang dianggotai Aji Samin (gitaris 1), Rizal Halim (gitaris 2), Din Safari (bassist), Rozario Rasul (keyboardist), Tom Anuar (drummer) dan Paang Zaman (percussionist).

Tempahan meja dan tiket Konsert Amal Doa Buat Kekasih 2018 di Persada Johor Convention Centre boleh didapati menerusi pejabat YKTLJ ditalian 07 557 0404.

Layari tl’cf.oro/doabuatkekasih atau laman Facebook rasmi Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Foundation dan lnstragram Laksamana Foundation @tljcf.

Manakala tiket-tiket Doa Buat Kekasih 30th Anniversary Tour 2018 di lstana Budaya pada 6 Oktober telah pun mula dijual pada harga RM400, RM350 RM250 , RM200 . RM150 dan RM100. Belian atau tempahan tiket: www.ilassotickets.com. lnfo tiket: +603 31706333. Info Konsert: +603 77730677.

TP-Link & Neffos Unveil a Line-up of Full-view Smartphones

TP-Link and Neffos today announced their exciting range of products, designed specifically to offer consumers a seamless viewing experience, be it at home or on-the-go. The new range of products from Neffos comes packed with FullView Display, larger battery capacity, Arcsoft registered photography capabilities and latest dual-band Wi-Fi technology.

The event unveiled the latest Neffos full-view smartphone range which include the Neffos X9, C9, C9A, and the Neffos C7A while TP-Link unveiled the Deco M9 Plus, TP-Link’s first mesh Wi-Fi system with smart hub functionality. Teasing the arrival of new innovation, Neffos also showcased its first smartphone with built-in laser projector capable of displaying a 200-inch image.

Present to officially unveil the new range of product was Jason Xu, Chief Executive Officer, Neffos, who said, “The belief that excellent smartphones need not be priced over-the-top lies at the foundation of our success, and the new range of Neffos smartphones are designed to prove that. We believe in our continued efforts and hope to drive TP-Link and Neffos’ sales and share growth in Malaysia and across the globe.”

Hugo Cai, Director of TP-Link Distribution Malaysia Sdn Bhd, said, “We believe that these new additions will bring more variety to our loyal customers, thus giving them more value with their choice of smartphones. We will continue to provide quality smartphones with the best prices combined together with our unsurpassed aftersales services, our customers can be confident with every smartphone that they purchase.”

Neffos X9

The new Neffos X9 boasts an advanced dual-camera system around the back and a large Full-View Display on the front — and incorporates them into an attractive polycarbonate body with a premium metallic look and feel.

Built for capturing moments that matter, the Neffos X9 is equipped with 13- and 5-megapixel rear cameras, and 8-megapixel camera on the front. It comes equipped with phase-detection auto-focus while the f/2.0 aperture lens allows for greater depth of field, resulting in a more dramatic effect.

Neffos X9

Sporting a massive 5.99-inch Full-View touch display, it runs at HD+ resolution using in-cell technology and engineered to deliver a sharper and more vivid picture. Designed with user comfort and convenience in mind, the Neffos X9 has a fingerprint sensor on the back and face Unlock with the latest AI technology incorporated into the front camera, capable of scanning over 100 different facial details to pixel-level accuracy.

The Neffos X9 will come in two variants, 3GB RAM with 32GB internal storage and 4GB RAM with 64GB internal storage. Both variants will be available in two colours – Space Black and Moonlight Silver. The Neffos X9 3GB with 32GB internal storage variant is now available in stores in Malaysia at an amazing retail price of RM599, meanwhile the Neffos X9 4GB with 64GB internal storage variant will be available at the end of August for RM799.

Neffos C9 and C9A

The C9 features an 8-megapixel Softlight Camera on the front, while the C9A has been outfitted with a 5-megapixel Softlight Camera that captures your face in the best way possible, be it at night or in a dimly lit environment.

Equipped with the 13-megapixel rear camera’s lower-aperture lens and phase-detection auto-focus system, the Neffos C9 and C9A can capture sharp and detailed photos from day to night.

Neffos C9 and C9A

Both models come in generous sizes, with the C9 and C9A sporting 5.99- and 5.45-inch screens, respectively, featuring an impressive 18:9 aspect ratio and HD+ resolutions.

Both the C9 and C9A will be available in two colours – Cloudy Grey and Moonlight Silver. The Neffos C9A is now available in stores nationwide at an affordable price of RM429 while the Neffos C9 will be available at the end of August 2018, priced at RM479.

Neffos C7A

The Neffos C7A is yet another fantastic budget entry that promises uncompromised design and performance backed up by an attractive price point.

It is powered by a 64-bit, quad-core processor coupled with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of local storage. It comes pre-installed with the latest Android 8.1 Oreo, along with a number of new customizations and UI changes as well as the latest security patches.

Neffos C7A

The C7A also features a 4G LTE modem with speeds of up to 150Mbps, ensuring speedy browsing experiences and amazing streaming quality. With a bright and colorful IPS display measuring 5 inches diagonally and running at HD resolution, the Neffos C7A is capable of capturing picture-perfect moments with its 8-megapixel, f/2.2 camera at the back with fast auto-focus and LED flash. The selfie camera is 2 megapixels and has an f/2.2 aperture lens as well for snapping brighter shots at night or in lower lighting.

The C7A will be available in Grey colour and will available in stores in Malaysia at the end of August 2018 retailing at RM359.

Neffos P1

The latest and most exciting addition to the Neffos family, the new and groundbreaking Neffos P1 boasts a built-in projector for viewing HD content on a wall with a screen size of up to 200 inches.

To project content directly from the hardware, the P1 uses American military-grade micro-electro-mechanical system or MEMS laser technology and a three-color beam light to produce a clear and high-resolution picture on a flat wall or screen.

To produce the most vivid and detailed picture possible, the Neffos P1 achieves a contrast ratio of 5,000:1, which is much higher than what a standard digital-light-processing or DLP projector is capable of producing. The typical DLP projector has a native contrast ratio of 400:1. The Neffos P1’s superior contrast ratio allows for striking visuals in high definition.

Neffos P1

The small MEMS projector built into the Neffos P1 also consumes less power, enabling the device to project an image continuously for up to four hours on a single charge of the 4,000mAh battery.

And incredibly, despite housing a projector that can throw a 200-inch image to a wall or screen, the P1 is only 10mm thick and weighs only 203 grams. Those particulars make for a portable and lightweight smartphone-slash-projector that can slip into a person’s pocket or bag easily.

TP-Link AC2200 Smart Home Mesh Wi-Fi System Deco M9 Plus

TP-Link’s first mesh Wi-Fi system with smart hub functionality, aimed at providing Wi-Fi that’s “Fast. Smart. Everywhere”. AC2200 Smart Home Mesh Wi-Fi System Deco M9 Plus is the simplest way to guarantee a strong Wi-Fi signal in every corner of homes up to 6500 square feet with three Deco units. Users can enjoy fast, secure Wi-Fi for over 100 connected devices, and take control of all their smart home devices with Deco M9 Plus, with no need to buy an additional hub.

Deco M9 Plus delivers super-fast Wi-Fi to devices in every part of the home. The AC2200 Wi-Fi system transmits three separate wireless bands for combined speeds of up to 2134Mbps: one 400Mbps 2.4GHz band for surfing, online shopping and audio streaming, and one high-speed 867Mbps 5GHz band for lag-free 4k streaming and gaming, with another 867Mbps 5GHz band as backhaul. Smart Connect technology automatically assigns each device to the optimum band to balance traffic and maintain fast connections.

The Deco M9 Plus utilizes a single 5GHz band as wireless backhaul when traffic is light but can count on the other 5GHz band and the 2.4GHz band for backhaul when traffic gets heavy, delivering speeds of over 1000Mbps — ideal for users with gigabit fiber connections. 

Unlike traditional Wi-Fi routers, each Deco M9 Plus unit has a built-in smart hub, bringing all your smart home devices onto one platform. Deco M9 Plus is compatible with smart bulbs, lights, switches, locks, sensors, plugs, cameras and more, including TP-Link and other leading brands. The Deco M9 Plus will be available in Malaysian stores beginning August 2018 retailing at RM999.