GOASIAPLUS March 2019

MARCH 2019 | ISSUE 34
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM
SANDY BAYS IN
HONG KONG
SONGDO, SOUTH KOREA
OLD BAKERIES

CONTENTS
4 ON THE RADAR
8 OUT & ABOUT
16
10 TRAVEL
Spotted in Asia:
Songdo, South Korea
12 TRAVEL
Beach, Bay and Beyond
16 TRAVEL
Davao, Philippines
18 TRAVEL
Heaven in the Forest
20 SHOP
Time to Rethink Bamboo
22 FOOD
Buns for the Long Run
24 TALES ON TRACK
Lost & Found
22
COVER BY
GETTY IMAGES
EDITORIAL TEAM
GROUP HEAD & BRANDS
JOHN SO
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
JAMIE SOO-HOO
SENIOR WRITER
JESSY WONG
PHOTOGRAPHER
RICK CHEAH
CONTRIBUTORS
FRANCIS YIP & NG SHEN LEE
DIGITAL TEAM
4
WEB CONTENT
JESSY WONG
EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES
EDITORIAL@PCOMASIA.COM
SENIOR MANAGER
SALES & MARKETING
YONG WANG CHING
YONG@PCOMASIA.COM
20
COMMERCIAL & PARTNERSHIP
JOHN SO
JOHNSO@PCOMASIA.COM
PUBLISHED BY
PUBLISHCOM ASIA SDN. BHD.
NO. 83–1, JALAN MEDANG SERAI, BUKIT BANDARAYA,
59100 KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA.
+603–20118983 WWW.PCOMASIA.COM
PRINTED BY
PERCETAKAN TURBO SDN. BHD.
NO. 8, JALAN SEKINCAN 26/9,
SECTION 26, SHAH ALAM 40000, MALAYSIA.
The views expressed in the articles published are not necessarily those
of Publishcom Asia Sdn Bhd (963236–P). While every reasonable care is
taken in compiling the magazine, the publisher shall not be held liable for
any omission, error or inaccuracy. Please notify the publisher in writing of
any such omission, error or inaccuracy. Editorial contributions are welcome,
but unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender’s risk. The publisher
cannot accept any responsibility for loss or damage. All rights reserved by
Publishcom Asia Sdn Bhd (963236–P). No part of this publication may be
reproduced in any form without the publisher’s permission in writing.
KDN PP 19019/05/2016 (034482)
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 1

EDITOR’S
NOTE
John So
Publisher
March arrives like a gust of warm wind after the two months of
low-key break and festivity since the beginning of the year. This
warm wind might be expectant to some but it blows at crosspurposes
with others.
I believe that life will always bring us somewhere. Despite the
wariness in the unknown horizons and distant future, it is inevitable for
us explore. Gear up because we will never know what we can discover by
believing and working hard.
So when the chance arrives, dare to explore different things. Hong
Kong has always been one of my favourite destinations–be it business
or leisure trips. The yum cha sessions and food kept many desirous of
returning but how many explored the other sunny and sandy side of
Hong Kong?
From our ‘Beach, Bay, and Beyond’ (page 12), I hope you will be
enticed by their coasts and have a different holiday approach for your
next Hong Kong trip. For embracing new things, the old ones will always
keep me in balance.
On page 22, check out our take with three old bakeries in Malaysia.
Each notable for their own offerings, I wish the roti and buns will take
you for a bite back to revisit your childhood days.
BRINGING
THE BAGS
Photo ADOBE STOCK
Go around anyone’s house and you will find me stashed
away with tens of my other cousins. All thanks to my
popularity. For the good reasons.
For the longest period, I am introduced to the world
as a battle against my fated sworn enemy–known as the
plastics. Born and recycled with good blessings, many of you
supported me by giving me a platform to grow my influence.
Supermarkets are my biggest ally in the reformation and
it wasn’t long until I was put to work as giveaway bags in
events and promotions. Brands started using me as an easily
available tote to advertise their businesses. Useful on one
day then stashed away for the eternity.
Now, I exist in an abundance of quantity but not fully
utilised to my initial purpose.
While I’m readily available in their homes, people would
still rather pay the minimal amount for plastic carriers at
their own convenience in disregard to the environment.
Take a look around and you’ll find only one out of ten
shoppers diligently bring me around on their errands.
So, please don’t leave me at home. Always keep me in
your car storage or bag and allow me to do what I am made
for. Afterall, I’m of a better quality than the plastics!
Often neglected,
Reusable bags
PICK-UP POINTS
Read our magazine exclusively in Aerobus airport shuttles or bring home a copy of GOASIAPLUS with you at these pick-up points below:
GATEWAY@KLIA2
AIRPORT SHOPPING MALL
KLIA EKSPRES
KL SENTRAL
KLIA
INFORMATION COUNTER AT
DEPARTURE MAIN TERMINAL
& SATELLITE BUILDING
KLIA2
INFORMATION COUNTER,
SATELLITE BUILDING &
INTERNATIONAL ARRIVAL
2 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

NEWS
ON THE RADAR
GET UP TO DATE ON THE LATEST HAPPENINGS ON
TRAVEL, HOTEL OPENINGS, FOOD OFFERS AND
TRENDING FASHION AROUND SOUTHEAST ASIA
SUNSHINE STATE OF MIND
The theme of Swarovski’s
bright new Spring/Summer 2019
collection, Sunshine, catches its
gleam across the Mediterranean in
celebrating radiance and brilliance
for women. The Royal Goddess line
takes inspiration from the Hamsa
and the Eye of Providence in a
vibrant palette of gold, cherry red
and turquoise blue.
Available at Swarovski outlets
nationwide
A SILVER JUBILEE FOR PANTAI HOSPITAL
CHERAS
Cheras’ pioneering hospital celebrates their 25-year
anniversary to mark the medical milestones achieved
since 1994. Pantai Hospital Cheras specialises in various
expertise including general surgery, neurosurgery,
ophthalmology, orthopaedics and paediatrics.
To commemorate the occasion, Pantai Hospital
Cheras is offering a comprehensive health screening
package that tests diabetes, nose cancer and liver
function (valued at RM250) for senior citizens at just
RM25. It is open to residents of Cheras aged 60 years
and above. Be the first 500 participants to register
before 30 June 2019 to enjoy this screening package.
www.pantai.com.my/cheras
LIGHTEST CANON EOS MODEL
The EOS RP, second addition to Canon’s new EOS R
range, weighs only at 485grams for an interchangeablelens
mirrorless camera. One of the main feature of this
model is its smooth and fast autofocus speed even in
poorly lit conditions. Using DIGIC 8 image processor,
Canon EOS RP is perfect for new users to full-frame
cameras to achieve superb image quality.
www.canon.com.my
SHERATON ARRIVES AT PHILIPPINES
The new Sheraton hotel is set to attract guests
to the capital of Philippines with its dynamic
location. Close to the main airport, Sheraton
Manila boasts of 390 rooms including two-level
lofts accomodation for a multigenerational travel.
Sheraton Manila is also the first to introduce “The
ColLab”, a co-working space in a hotel.
www.sheratonmanila.com
4 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

NEWS
RECORD-BREAKING SUCCESS FOR 8TV CNY GRAND BAZAAR
For the entire 19-day event, the one and
only 8TV CNY Grand Bazaar has welcomed
over 400,000 visitors at Bukit Jalil Sports
City. Garnering a massive number of festive
shoppers and weekend strollers, Malaysia’s
biggest Chinese New Year bazaar ended with
a bang on 31 January 2019.
The mainstream national channel 8TV
organised the bazaar in collaboration with
Build Up Resources (BUR) and AirAsia Berhad
for a fun-filled festival. Besides meeting 8TV
personalities and celebrities, visitors were
engaged with various programme like cooking
demonstrations, cultural music performances
and interactive games throughout the days.
AirAsia BIG even took a spot in the
Malaysia Book of Records for the ‘Most
Number of Lions’ in a lion dance performance
during the event launch with 388 dancing
lions. For those who missed the performance
have excitedly gathered for AirAsia BIG
King of the Lions Championship to catch
contestants all over Asia put on a thrilling
set of moves with Lien Huu Dragon & Lion
Dance from Vietnam emerging as the new
champion.
The 8TV CNY Grand Bazaar saw more
than 300 merchants in both indoor and
outdoor shopping areas, food street, and the
flower market. While one is spoilt for choice
at the bazaar, the projection mapping of
thousands of flowers at Blossom Wonderland
became their highlight attraction.
The closing ceremony is joined by
Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng and an
adrenaline-pumping lion dance performance
by world-champion winner Kun Seng Keng
Lion and Dragon Dance Association.
GO TRAVEL IN ONE STOP SOLUTION
Get all your bookings done from flights, hotels,
tour packages and attractions on Go Travel–
homegrown travel e-portal and mobile app.
Introduced by Gofay Group, the e-portal and
mobile app features plenty of travel packages
and needs for leisure travellers, business trips
and even wholesale partners.
Gofay Group is known in the Malaysia
travel market for offering personalised travel
services and global chartered flights. With this
new launch, travel and business booking are
made easy and efficient through digital space.
Go Travel mobile app is now available for
download on Google Play and Apple Store.
www.gofaytravel.com
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 5

ADVERTORIAL
Basic Toolkit
for
Travel
Journaling
F Canon Mini Photo
Printer (model
number PV-123)
F Unlined notebook
F Coloured pens
F Washi tapes
F Travel stubs
KEEPING UP WITH
TRAVEL JOURNALING
CALL IT A TRAVEL DIARY OR SCRAPBOOKING, THE COLLECTION OF ADVENTURES AND
MEMENTOS FROM YOUR TRIP CAN BE A WONDERFUL MEMOIR IN YEARS TO COME. THE NEW
CANON MINI PHOTO PRINTER MAKES KEEPING A TRAVEL JOURNAL EFFORTLESS WITH ITS
PORTABLE AND EXPRESSIVE WAYS TO RECORD MEMORIES.
The creative way of making
a log of travels extends
beyond the sentimental and
artsy community in perfecting
their visual diary. Travel
journaling has become a trending
hobby because the satisfaction
of gathering tangible objects and
assembling it into an experience
and memory is irreplaceable.
Now, up your game with
Canon Mini Photo Printer to
enjoy the freedom and excitement
in imagining your travel journal.
After all, travel journaling is all
about capturing vivid visits and
Canon’s mini portable printer just
refashioned the ways of creating
a travel journal at anywhere and
anytime you want.
SNAP AND PRINT
Enjoy a wireless printing with
Canon Mini Photo Printer just
by pairing it to a smartphone via
Bluetooth. The lightweight and
compact mini printer has a builtin
battery for easy mobility
during travels.
PERSONALISED PHOTOS
Canon Mini Photo Printer mobile
app has an extensive library of
photo-editing tools from filters,
photo frames, creative stamps and
textbox to draw on artworks to
enhance photos before printing.
GLOSSY PRINTS
The ZINK Zero Ink Technology
enables dry-printing in full colour
without having to use any ink
catridges in the mini printer.
SCRAPBOOK MATERIAL
Put your glue away for these
mess-free glossy photos! Printed
photos from Canon Mini Photo
Printer have a peel-and-stick
reverse side for scrapbooking in
a jiffy.
ENLARGING MEMENTOS
Blow it up if the standard 2x3-
inch image does not give the
photograph its justice. Canon
Mini Photo Printer has a “tiling”
function for you to enlarge a
photo by printing in tiles to
create a bigger photo made up of
multiple collage prints.
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 7

EVENTS
OUT & ABOUT
LOOK OUT FOR THE MOST ANTICIPATED EVENTS OF
THE MONTH IN MALAYSIA AND BEYOND
DESCENDANTS OF THE
DRAGON 2060 WORLD TOUR
16 MARCH
Wang Leehom is returning to
Malaysia for a prodigious concert
since his last visit 5 years ago. His
Malaysian fan group, Homaniacs,
are in treat for a sci-fi themed stage
and performance of Leehom’s hit
songs such as ‘Forever Love’, ‘The
Only One’ and ‘You’re Not Here’.
Stadium Merdeka,
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
www.ticketcharge.com.my
RAPTOR WATCH 2019
9-10 MARCH
For the 20th anniversary of Raptor
Watch, Malaysian Nature Society are
extending the annual event to 2 days
for bird watchers and enthusiasts to
welcome the return of migratory birds
to their breeding grounds. Guests can
participate in the guided walks, join craft
activities and games besides watching
raptors at this special event.
Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve,
Melaka, Malaysia
www.mnsraptorwatch.wordpress.com
MALAYA RELIVED: THE FALL OF
SINGAPORE
22-24 MARCH
This new musical–The Fall of Singapore–is
the first of the Malaya Relived series which
explores the foundations of Malayan
cultural identity. The three-act musical
surrounds the story of a young family with
Bugis ancestry living in Singapore under
the British empire in the 1940s of Malaya.
GMBB Gallery, No 2 Jalan Robertson
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
www.liverandlung.com
MAROON 5 RED PILL BLUES TOUR
LIVE IN SINGAPORE
7 MARCH
The band is set to play their largest
show in Singapore in accordance to
their successful sixth studio album ‘Red
Pill Blues’ that has more than a million
sales. This tour is a first for Sam Farrar
to debut as an official member of the
Grammy-winning Maroon 5 as a multiinstrumentalist
in the band.
National Stadium, Singapore
www.sistic.com.sg
RITA ORA PHOENIX 2019 LIVE IN TAIPEI
16 MARCH
Embarking on her first solo tour in Asia, Rita Ora
will be performing in support of her second studio
album ‘Phoenix’. Despite the long wait since her
debut studio album, Rita Ora remains the first
British solo artist to have 13 top 10 songs in UK
with singles like ‘Your Song’ and ‘Anywhere’.
Legacy Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
www.livenation.com.tw
8 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

TRAVEL
SPOTTED: ASIA IN FILMS
SONGDO, SOUTH KOREA
Text NG SHEN LEE
Photos ADOBE STOCK & FREEVECTORMAPS.COM
By the waterfront of Incheon in South
Korea lies Songdo. Dubbed as the
country’s “smartest” city, it’s been
built from the ground up to become the
ultramodern city it is today–a wonder of
technology bringing the term “eco-friendly”
to a whole other level.
Think built-in computers in every
building and street, as well as garbage
chutes which suck waste underground.
But Songdo’s claim to fame doesn’t stop
there. It’s modern utopia-like surroundings
has made it popular among filmmakers as a
filming location for multiple dramas, movies
and even music videos.
Among them include “Descendants of
the Sun”, where the Songdo G-Tower made
an appearance. The rooftop of the 33-floor
skyscraper is also accessible to members of
the public looking for a panoramic view of
the city.
Not too far away, also in Songdo Central
Park is the Northeast Asia Trade Tower.
Filming for “Goblin”, another household
name for fans of Korean dramas was held
here as well.
In the romantic fantasy “My Love
From The Stars”, the character Do Min-
Joon heroically saves Cheon Song-Yi from
falling down the cliff. This setting was made
possible at the Incheon Songdo Mountain,
an abandoned quarry. The same male lead
also played the role of a university professor
at the Songdo campus of Incheon University
in the drama.
And surely many can recall the infamous
music video of PSY’s “Gangnam Style”
which took the world by storm at the time
of its release in 2012. The underground
parking lot? That was the parking lot of a
building in Songdo. And that bawdy scene
where an actor dances on top of PSY as he’s
on all fours? Filmed in an elevator of the
same building too!
So, if one weren’t in the know, they’d
probably say that Songdo is the “Tomorrow
City” it boasts itself to be, flocked day and
night by tourists. But what if that wasn’t so?
Even with a slew of triumphs behind its
back, the city hasn’t been seeing nearly as
much tourism as it should have as a result
of being host to so many filming locations.
To the extent of being called a No Man’s
Land, the unsettling emptiness of the city
has even been compared to the desolation
of Chernobyl.
We can only hope that the pristine
metropolitan will be able to spike tourism
with the help of more and more established
film projects in the area.
In Songdo, there
are no trash
cans or garbage
trucks!
FUN
FACTS
An impressive
40% of the city is
to be made up of
green parkland.
10 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

TRAVEL
BEACH, BAY AND BEYOND
A WALK TO THE SIDELINES OF URBAN HONG KONG IS AN ABSOLUTE WONDER FOR ONE TO
UNCOVER ITS LESSER-KNOWN COASTAL TREASURES ON THE ISLAND.
Text JESSY WONG Photos HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD, ADOBE STOCK & GETTY IMAGES
1
1 The resort-like Repulse Bay on Hong Kong island 2 Big Wave
Bay for surfers 3 Cheung Sha Beach of Lantau island 4 A surfer
playing against the tides 5 Paddleboarding competition for the
locals 6 BBQ pit by the beach 7 A rocky Hung Shing Yeh beach
8 Windsurfers casually parked on the sandy beach
12 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

TRAVEL
Why pack your swimming attire for a trip to Hong Kong if you are only going to use it at
the hotel’s pool? Bring along your sun hat as not many know that hidden beneath the
shadows of a world-class metropolitan city are its secret scenic beaches.
Beyond the fascinating buildings, vibrant nightlife and lip-smacking food, it is commonly
forgotten that Hong Kong is afterall, made up of several islands. Situated in the southeast of
China, Hong Kong’s beaches are a perfect escape from the fast-paced city life and play hosts to all
sunbathers and outdoor buffs with summer recreations on the waters.
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 13

TRAVEL
BIG WAVE BAY BEACH
The surfer’s paradise in Hong Kong is one of the
best-equipped beaches for a family picnic or beach
gathering. Besides the readily available beautiful
location with public BBQ pits, equipments like
parasols, beachmats, surfboard and wetsuit are up for
rents. Living up to its namesake, Big Wave Bay Beach
is a remote surfing spot enveloped by green hills. For
interested amateurs, you can even take up surfing
lessons at the beach from the professionals. Another
nearby attraction is a large prehistoric rock carving
with geometric designs and animals.
Popular for
Surfing
Location
North of Shek O,
Hong Kong island
2
How To Get There
Taking a direct cab from Central to Shek O would take
30 minutes. For cheaper alternative, public transport like
the MTR or buses go to Chai Wan and you can enjoy the
short scenic hike from Chai Wan to Big Wave Bay.
3
4
5
CHEUNG SHA BEACH
Known as the longest beach in the country, Cheung Sha beach is an ideal escapade
from the urban capital. In the absence of high-rise buildings, it certainly makes
one hard to believe that the serene beach is part of Hong Kong as the beach
overlooks an endless horizon of the blue sea ringed by nature and adjacent
hills. The beachfront of lower Cheung Sha beach is populated with cafes and
restaurants besides a water-sports center that rents out kayaks, paddle-board and
surfing equipments. Other than sunbathing in the day, there is also a camping
ground for a campfire night at the beach.
Popular for
Windsurfing from November till March
Location
South coast of Lantau island
How To Get There
From Central Ferry Pier, take a ferry ride to Mui Wo. Once arrived, take bus number
1 or 2 to Cheung Sha Ha Tsuen. The beach would be walking distance from the stop. If
you’re driving, do take note that parking is limited by the beach.
14 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

TRAVEL
6
HUNG SHING YEH BEACH
Hung Shing Yeh beach is a commercial site on Lamma
island with a long line of eateries, shops and street vendors
heading to the sandy area. Compared to other beaches in
Hong Kong, this beach is notable with rocks decked by the
coast. Hung Shing Yeh beach is a sunny calling for a breezy
relaxation for locals and tourists so do expect large crowds
on weekends and Hong Kong’s public holiday. Close by,
Lamma Power Station beach is a small, less crowded seaside
bank overlooking Lamma power plants if you want to escape
the crowd.
Popular for
Sunset BBQ
Location
North of Lamma island
7
How To Get There
Take a short ferry trip from Central Ferry Pier heading to Yung
Shue Wan Pier. Once arrived, the beach is only a 20-30 minutes
walk on the main road from Yung Shue Wan Pier with road signs
to the beach.
8
TUNG WAN BEACH
Don’t be surprised if you catch couples taking wedding photos on the
beach. Tung Wan beach has one of the best picturesque views in Hong
Kong with the country’s longest suspension bridge, Tsing Ma Bridge, and
clear blue sky in the backdrop. Fitted with shark net and lifeguards on
duty, the beach is safe for swimming, windsurfing, canoeing and surfing
if the wave permits. Tung Wan beach is a scenic spot to go for a fun
weekend. Furthermore, the nearby Noah’s Ark Theme Park could be an
optional stop when the weather turns awry.
Popular for
Windsurfing
Location
Cheung Chau island
How To Get There
It takes a 30 minutes ferry ride from the Central Ferry Pier to Cheung Chau
and it is only a 10 minutes walk to the beach from the pier. You can rely on sign
posts along Tung Wan Road while making your way to the beach.
ALSO CHECK OUT
SHAM WAN BEACH
This coast at Lamma
island is unique to green
turtles as it is their only
nesting site in the whole
South China Sea. Due to
its ecological importance,
authorities closed the
site from early June till end of
October every year to allow turtles to breed.
After the nesting period, the beautiful beach
is reopened to public. The only way to get to
the remote beach is through a 3 kilometres
hike through Mo Tat Wan New Village.
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TRAVEL
ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
DAVAO, PHILIPPINES
THE HIGHLY URBANISED CITY ON THE ISLAND OF MINDANAO
NICKNAMED “KING CITY OF THE SOUTH” IS A LAND OF DELIGHT FOR
NATURE ENTHUSIASTS AND ANIMAL LOVERS.
Text JESSY WONG • Photos ADOBE STOCK & RED PLANET HOTELS
HOW TO GET THERE
Located 2 hours south from the main capital of
Manila, easily get to Francisco Bangoy International
Airport via domestic flights. International airlines
like Singapore Airlines and AirAsia have direct flights
to Davao. Besides travelling on road, one may also
travel by sea to Davao on ferry rides from Manila.
WHERE TO STAY
Red Planet Davao is a budget hotel strategically
located close to shopping hotspots. Perfect for
business and leisure travellers, the hotel is also
equipped with wheelchair-friendly facilities.
Alongside, Bahay Ni Tuding is a homely inn in
the city with minimal accents of Filipino decor.
This inexpensive inn is also walking distance to
Davao River.
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WHERE TO EAT
Dine at Kaonanan sa Tribu K’Mindawan Davao
to taste authentic Mindanao cultural food and
tribal inspired meals. The Palosebo meal is
a vegan food to try made of banana blossom
cooked in coconut milk. For a good range of
Spanish and Filipino cuisine, go to Tiny Kitchen
& Dulce Vida restaurant.
WHAT TO DO
Bird lovers can spend their day at Philippine
Eagle Centre, home to the largest eagle species
in the world. The conservation center is also a
breeding facility for the critically endangered
Philippine eagles. Afterwards, head to People’s
Park to see life-sized sculptures of the native
peoples of Mindanao.
Take a quick ferry ride to neighbouring Samal
Island and spend a day there by visiting the cave
of Monfort Bat Sanctuary, play in giant slide at
Maxima Aqua Fun and dip in Hagimit Falls. For
the adventurous spirit, try whitewater rafting in
Davao river and ziplining at Asia’s longest and
fastest zipline at Outland Adventure.
GOOD
to
KNOW
Davao is home to
the highest peak in
Philippines, Mount
Apo, a dormant
volcano near 2,954m
in height.
Durian, the “King
of Fruits” is amply
grown in Mindanao
and can be found
almost everywhere in
Davao.
Kadayawan Festival
is Davao’s biggest
annual festival in
celebration of life and
thanksgiving for good
harvest held on every
third week of August.

TRAVEL
1
2
HEAVEN IN
THE FOREST
PURA ANANTHA BOGA IS A SACRED FOREST
IN INDONESIA KEPT BEAUTIFULLY WITH
SCULPTURES OF MOTHER MARY, JESUS
CHRIST, GODDESS OF MERCY, SHIVA, GANESHA
ALONGSIDE A MUSLIM SURAU.
Text & photos FRANCIS YIP
In Malaysia, we have streets of harmony with churches, mosques
and temples side by side. But did you know in Indonesia, there is
a sacred forest site displaying a similar rare show of unity?
Welcome to Pura Anantha Boga or aptly known as Anta Boga
in Banyuwangi, Indonesia. I call it “Heaven in the Forest” because
the sacred site exudes an aura of peace and serenity captured in the
beautiful verdant profile of the forest.
Nestled on the slopes of Raung Mountain in Glenmore District,
Banyuwangi, Anantha Boga is sprawled over an area of 300 acres of
forest. The people of Bali and the surrounding villagers believe that
the legend Rsi Markendeya meditated in this forest and received
God’s calling to build a temple in the next island now known as
Bali. The temple is named Besakih, mother temple of Bali.
Anantha Boga is then transformed into a sacred forest site with
the belief that all religions are good and could co-exist in harmony.
The site was built by the local community to reflect East Java's rich
culture and tolerance to all religions. It has since attracted locals
and tourists alike from all faiths.
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TRAVEL
4
“All religions
are good and
could co-exist
in harmony.”
5
3
1 Hindu God Ganeshan overlooking the holy river 2 A
portrayal of Lord Shiva among the greens 3 This holy
river's water is believed to have healing powers 4 A
statue of Jesus in the forest 5 An altar of Mother Mary
with flower offerings
BEHIND THE LEGACY
Anantha Boga is the name of one of the Sang Hyang Naga Tiga; namely
Sang Hyang Naga Ananthaboga (symbolising earth), Sang Hyang Naga
Basuki (symbolising water) and Sang Hyang Naga Taksaka (symbolising
air). The three are believed to form the island of Bali. Etymologically,
Anantha Boga means food that will not run out.
It is believed that Pura Anantha Boga takes on the Tri Hita Karana
concept, which is the harmonisation between God (parahyangan), humans
(pawongan), and nature (palemahan).
There are various kinds of symbols that represent the existence of
the oldest religion Hinduism, such as lingga-yoni and Ganesha statues.
Lingga-yoni is an object used for the means of worshiping Shiva and
Parvati, while Ganesha is known as the god of knowledge and son of Shiva
and Parvati.
Today, the Tourism Board of Indonesia is dynamically promoting Pura
Anantha Boga as one of the key tourist destinations in East Java. Garuda
Indonesia’s low-cost airline, Citilink has also recently opened the Kuala
Lumpur-Banyuwangi direct round-trip route.
Getting There
From Airport Belimbing Sari, approximately 40-45km
From nearest Hotel Pinus, appoximately 10-15km
From the Genteng Subdistrict, about 6km to the west
(Glenmore). Turn right after finding a signboard (to
the north) then cross the railroad tracks. Then walk
straight for 6 km to the Anantha Boga secretariat, the
Sandya Dharma Temple in Selorejo Hamlet.
Good To Know
Cover your body
appropriately when
entering the site. If you
want to purify your
body in the holy spring
water, you may change
into a sarong.
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 19

SHOP
TIME TO RETHINK
BAMBOO
MITIGATE THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE
WITH BAMBOO-MADE CONSUMER PRODUCTS
THAT ARE MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
AND SAFE FOR OUR PLANET IN THE LONG RUN.
Text JESSY WONG • Photos THE USUK INITIATIVE, THE HIVE & JESSY WONG
Ride in the current wave of sustainability
to reduce plastic usage in our daily lives.
Plastic is extensively used everywhere and
the non-biodegradable material is damaging to
the planet. When thrown on land, it reduces soil
fertility. When disposed in sea, it harms marine
life and pollutes the ocean.
Therefore, naturally-sourced materials that are
composable are better for the planet in a long run.
Bamboo has proven its versatility in many ways
and today, it is used in popular productions like
furniture, flooring and clothes.
This is because bamboo is one of fastest
growing plants on Earth and it can be harvested
frequently in a year. Also, the root is not damaged
when harvested so it doesn’t need to be replanted.
Besides being the panda’s favourite snack, bamboo
also absorbs a higher amount of carbon dioxide
than most other plants.
However, due to the strong nature of raw
bamboo, the process of manufacturing it into
fabric puts the ‘green’ product into question. Even
that, the possibilities and benefits of bamboomade
products still outweigh the mass production
materials like plastic and cotton.
Take a small step to rescue the environment
by reinventing your daily choices and usage. Like
the late Stan Lee has put it, one person can really
make a difference. So even if you failed all your
previous resolutions, take a momentous turn this
year by switching to bamboo-made products for a
good change.
STRAW
Malaysia has called a nationwide ban on plastic
straws starting 2019 so be equipped with
your own straw for your next dining outside.
Bamboo straws can be soaked in boiled vinegar
water then scrub it with coconut fibre cleaning
brushes for a more thorough clean!
GET IT AT G
The Usuk Initiative
www.theusukinitiative.org
20 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

SHOP
COTTON SWAB
Reduce your daily toiletries waste with
these compostable bamboo sticks cotton
swabs for everyday use.
GET IT AT G
The Hive Bulk Foods
92A, Lorong Maarof, Bangsar Park,
Kuala Lumpur
GOOD
to
KNOW
All eco-friendly products could be reuse and
disposed. In its entire life cycle, a sustainable
product can help to reduce the waste in our
landfills from the process of making, consumer
usage and till the final disposal. The products can
be infinitely recycled as raw materials or fully
composted back to Earth.
TOOTHBRUSH
Biodegradable bamboo handles makes
an ethical change for toothbrush
replacement in every 3 months.
GET IT AT G
The Hive Bulk Foods
92A, Lorong Maarof, Bangsar Park,
Kuala Lumpur
PAIR it WITH
FRANGIPANI BULK SOLID
TOOTHPASTE
Made with natural and organic ingredients,
the toothpaste comes in a reusable stainless
steel mini box. This handmade toothpaste
is also refillable for a zero waste initiative.
GET IT AT G
The Linc KL, 360, Jalan Tun Razak,
Kuala Lumpur
www.frangipani-shop.com
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 21

FOOD
BUNS FOR THE
LONG RUN
THE MORNING STAPLE FOR MOST
MALAYSIANS IS PROUDLY A GENERATIONAL
BUSINESS FOR THESE ONE-OF-A-KIND
BAKERIES IN WEST MALAYSIA.
Text & photos JESSY WONG
Steeped in Malaysia’s multicultural community,
bread is among the major bedrock to our
identity and history. One that represents our
ancestor’s culture that steams mantou, another
kneaded and baked over hot iron griddle that forms
roti and the English’s introduction of brown outercrust
white loaves to Malaya.
Be it if you pair with the spicy curry, sweet
kaya or fragrant butter, bread is a universal love for
Malaysians. Conceivably, the popularity of bread
sees many independent operated bakeries serve the
local demands for decades and some has held certain
irreplaceable trademark products. All tried and
tested, here are the places I found that may fix your
cravings for good buns.
CONTINENTAL BAKERY
Since 1980s
The retro set-up of the bakery is a spell of age and
esteem to the locals in Penang. As the star of Nagore
Street, Continental Bakery is known for baking fresh
and hearty buns for the longest time. The bakery’s
best well-known recipe belongs to Multi Grain
Walnuts and Dates bread, a comforting healthy bread
for the health-conscious consumers. Find a wide
variety of Western baked goods like wholewheat
English muffin, cream puffs and cakes. The bakery
also has a small eating area for dine-in to pair their
buns with mushroom soup and spaghetti bolognese.
Personal pick
French Butter Croissant. The
croissant is unbelievably soft with
a well-baked savoury crust. Larger
than the size of my palm, each
bite of the handmade croissant
brings a dough buttery finesse to
the tastebuds.
33, Jalan Nagore, 10050,
Georgetown, Penang
+604-228 3814
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FOOD
“A spell of age
and esteem to
the locals.”
HIAP JOO BAKERY & BISCUIT FACTORY
Since 1919
This four generational bakery takes pride
in their long commitment of providing
the finest buns to the locals. Using only
one large brick-made woodfire oven,
Hiap Joo Bakery is filled with the aroma
of freshly baked buns daily. Besides plain
buns, their round bread comes in nine
variety of fillings from coconut, red bean,
peanut, curry potato, sardine and etc.
Also, the good thing about this age-old
bakery is that no preservatives are used
in baking so all their cakes and breads
are best consumed within 3 days to
maintain its freshness.
Personal pick
Banana Cake.
Underneath the slightly
charred top is an
irresistibly spongy and
moist banana cake with a
light smoky flavour. This
crowd-magnet is sold in
two sizes; big with ten
sliced pieces or small
with five slices.
13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee,
Johor Bahru, Johor
+607-223 1703
SALAHUDDIN BAKERY
Since 1937
The beige front and pastel green interior is a
familiar sight to many in this town. Salahuddin
Bakery was a start-up dream for this family.
For four generations, it remains as a charm to
Malaysians with their original soft bread baked
in coal-fired oven till this day. From the wee
hours of morning, fifty over kinds of baked goods
are slowly put on display like the olden times.
One may be spoiled for choice with all kinds of
pastries, breads and muffins but their best-seller
remain to be the large triangular Indian curry
puffs with potato fillings.
Personal pick
Bengali bread with the bakery’s
kaya spread. Bengali bread is a
local term for common white
bread with brown crusts. The
bread from this bakery is a gem
because it is difficult to find an
authentic Bengali bread with
coal-fired fragrant.
26, Jalan Dhoby,
Johor Bahru, Johor
+607-2273736
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 23

TALES ON TRACK
LOST & FOUND
ADVOLUTION
Text & photos FRANCIS YIP
mee, fast to cook,
good to eat.” “Milo, grow
“Maggi
like a champion grow.”
“Energizer. Keep going and going.” I grew
up watching these TV commercials in
the 80s. And I didn’t expect years later
in 1993, I joined the advertising world as
a copywriter. Some friends thought my
job was literally “copying” information or
dealing with copyright law! Well, welcome
to the unexpected world of advertising.
THE EARLY DAYS
The history of advertising in Malaysia
can be traced back in the early days of
independence. There were only a few
advertising agencies in Kuala Lumpur,
namely Cathay, Grant. Benson, Young,
Fortune, Masters, Millington, MarkLin and
the famous local agency, Union 45.
The advertising industry in that era
was dominated by foreign agencies but
the landscape started to change in the
80s and 90s with the set up of more
local agencies. In 1971, the Association of
Accredited Advertising Agents of Malaysia
was established to represent the voice of
advertising agencies in Malaysia.
In those days, if children told their
parents they would be joining advertising,
the first impression in mind was they
would be drawing bus signages, cinema
posters and billboards. Thankfully, this
stereotype perception had gradually faded
over time with the emergence of new art
colleges in Malaysia like Lim Kok Wing
Institute of Creative Technology, One
Academy and more.
LIFE AS AN AD MAN
Many people think advertising is full of
glitz and glam. Believe me, agency life is
not a bed of roses. We rack our brains and
even stay overnight in the office to meet
deadlines. It is even more of a torture
when there is an advertising pitch.
But if you get used to it, you will love
your job. I have been saying I wanted to
quit advertising probably more than ten
times in my entire career. Guess what? I
am still doing copywriting today.
Looking back at how I first started my
career can be quite amusing. Back then,
there was no internet. So art directors
would do scamps and the visualisers have
to hand-draw or airbrush the ads and
storyboards.
Photoshop and other Adobe software
were still not extensively used. Corel Draw
was used instead. Video editing was done
manually by cutting and pasting the back
of the films with Scotch tape. A tedious
process compared to video editing using
computer today.
I have also worked in an agency
which didn’t believe in investing in
technology. Hence, copywriters had to
use the complicated Wordstar software
instead of Microsoft Word. Well, not all is
bitter. Advertising people also have their
taste of glory. We have our own Oscar
in advertising known as Kancil Awards
and later, more awards like Putra Brand
Awards and Effie Awards came into play.
Afterall, all work and no play makes Jack a
dull boy.
THE DIGITAL WORLD
Today 87.4 percent of Malaysians use the
internet. Digital marketing has become
more important and clients channel
more budget in digital than traditional
media. Out-of-home media such as
digital billboards, transit and wallscape
advertising are also growing in demand.
The landscape of advertising has
changed but the good old wisdom of the
business stays.
Above all, “I’m lovin’ it” in spite of my
love-hate relationship with the industry.
24 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM
FRANCIS YIP always loses himself but somehow, finds his way back with lots of juicy stories to share. Forgive him if he sparks a debate.
Love him if he unlocks hidden jewels. So heavenly, so travelicious with him!
www.franciswriter.com franciswriterAd franciswriter