happenings in sarawak vol:24

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Happenings make every effort to ensure that the information given is accurate at the timeof publication. The publisher shall not be held liablefor any omissions, errors or inaccuracies. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

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Everything Sarawak CONTENTS

EDITORS NOTE

Sarawak is the largest State in Malaysia by area that joined to form the Federation of Malaysia on 16th September 1963. This 125,450 sq km of land area is the home of over 2 million population, and among them, the State has more than 60 ethnic or sub-ethnic groups. Each unique individuals are heirs of their origins, culture and her-itage. Where do we even begin to unearth such diversity like no other?

In our previous issue, we have launched the initiative - PUBLISHING YOU that offers a platform for the Youths to express themselves through our publication. The goal remainsto ensure that our community stays in touch with one another regardless of race, age or generation you belong in. The previousmonths have been eventful. Not only did we celebrated the Harvest Festival, Hari Raya, we also celebrated Hari Merdeka, and Malaysia Day. With so many celebrations, we pondered upon how far we have come and we wondered how much of this journey is remembered and cherished especially among the youths. With this, our team embarked on a journey to uncover the rich culture and heritage of Sarawak and they have returned with more than what we can share within pages of just 1 issue.

HAPPENINGS Personalities - Journey to Success

10 Director of Ducati Borneo - Dean Kuan shares his childhood dream come true

13 Top 6 Finalists of Master Chef Malaysia Season 1, author of Secubit Garam Sesudu Gula, featured Chef All Stars celebrity - Imelda Maya Harris reveals her secret ingredients!

13 34

Dato Patrick C.J. LiewEditor-in-Chief

HAPPENINGS Youth Interview: Traditions vs Modernity16 Are the old ways of life to be kept, adapted or changed for the better? Get an insight to the mind and voice of our youths by hearing it from them first-hand

Discover Sarawak: Where to GO and What to Taste?24 OFF! to Experience Sarawak - Culture within Nature26 Travel Guides and Tips28 SIBU! Here we come! - Local Delicacies

Editors Pick:30 Culture and Heritage FootstepsInterview Highlight:34 An Extraordinary Tale behind an Ordinary Boy who has a Curious Fascination

HAPPENINGS Lifestyle:38 Diet Myths BUSTED!

NEW!41 DIY Halloween Make Up42 DIY Christmas Deco43 Leisure: Spot the Difference45 Technology - Apps the way you work and play 47 HAPPENINGS: One Stop Directory

We could not be more delighted with this result as it proves to us once more that a hundred morepublications will not exhaust what Sarawak and its people has to share.

The purpose for Happenings in Sarawakis once again validated and we are more motivated than ever to provideyou with more to come! We THANK YOU all once again for yourunceasing support for Happenings in Sarawak. You have undoubtedly contributed to our community bysupporting this youth-run magazine that now serves as a transitionallearning ground for young adults.And in return, we present to you the voice of our younger generation. Allow us to also take you to them through our years or experience in the realm of advertising. It remains Conquerors Vision aim to provide our clients with service as certain as the Sun and to edge your names amongst the Stars!

This issues Participants of PUBLISHING YOU

Kimberly-Ann De Rozario(Feature Writer)Priscilla Tawie (Feature Writer)Tiu Kian Wee(Feature Writer)Luther Ong Zen Yoong(Feature Assistant)

Kirubananthini a/p Krisnan(Feature Writer)Wong Yee Lin(Marketing Representative)Vincent Kong Tze Khiong(Photographer and Designer)

EDITORIALS

Clara Liew(Managing Editor & Content Director)Igat Jeremy(Creative Director)Patsda Liew(Account Manager)

Rose (Design Editor)Sam A.(Copy Editor) Malcolm Wu(Contributing Photographer)

in collaboration with LIMKOKWING & UNIMAS

Nur Rawina Abdul Eagan(Feature Writer)Wong Yee Lin(Marketing Representative)Melissa Myra Ng(Graphic Design)

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22 Event Calendar

How did the fascination towards superbikes came about?

Ive always loved motorcycles, I remember my first ridingexperience way back when I was only 10 years old. Our family made a trip back to my dads kampung in Bekenu Miri and me and my cousin got the opportunity to ride around with a Suzuki 90cc cub. Since then Ive been borrowing motorcycles from my elder friends. Of course without proper guide and training there were a number of accidents which I am very lucky that they did not cause any serious injuries, so please ensure that you do get proper guidance. I love any bikes, not only super bikes. There is something about the control, a disciplined speed and that ultimate feeling of freedom, which every bike can offer.

Currently, you are the only one operating anoutlet in Sarawak carrying the international brands Ducati and Pisterpro.Why the two brands?

Yeap, Ducati is something that I can only dream of in my childhood. I recall that day in 1993 walking into Ghee Seng Motorcycle shop in Padungan. They gave me two posters, one of which is a Ducati and the other, a Nolan helmet. That was my very first encounter with Ducati. Today I have gathered much more knowledge towards the brand itself.

Ducati is a product of passion. Its performance and sexy Italian design have been its identity since day one up till today. So much so, that this identity plays a big part in inspiring the motorcycle fashion we have today. It is a great honour to be part of the family. As I delved into the industry further, myobsession went on to improving motorcycles stability, quality, affordability and that is when I discovered Pitsterpro.

Share with us a little bit more aboutPitsterpro.

Pitsterpro started in the USA since 2003 with the vision toproduce a high quality performance fast race motocross bikes in smaller sizes. I was introduced to it through a friend. It has one of the most agile chassis Ive ever rode! One test drive was all it takes to spark my undying fascination towards it.

I searched the factory, met up with the engineers and the idea of creating a fun and affordable motorcycle for the local market sprung upon me. A motorcycle that could work as a rider training tool, you can ride it to work on a daily basis and also have fun with it during the weekends. From then onward, it was a series of endless testing stages. We experiment the product through races, practices, conduct test runs on its components and then finally we did it! We created a prototype that made Pitsterpro now legal on road!

There are many aspects to work on in order to achieve this. For performance, we use a lot of high performance components put together; engine, chassis, suspension, alloy parts and many more. We work with various direct factories for parts and assemble them in Malaysia which makes Pitsterpro an affordable quality product.

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Sarawaks young innovative entrepreneur Dean Kuan (Director) of Ducati Borneo andPitsterpro Motor (M) Sdn Bhd) shares his childhood dream come true with !

HAPPENINGS PERSONALITIES Journey to Success

It is a very common perception on how dangerous racing bikes can be and howthey do not seem fitting as a regulartransport on the road but something you see on race track instead. Does Pister Probelongs to this category too?

That is a generalization that can be misleading sometimes. The fact is, anything with two wheels is considered quitedangerous whether it is a sport or a transport. It requiresdiscipline, control and knowledge. Two things you can do is to improve your knowledge and be disciplined. You do not need to be on the race track to have fun. To me, riding on the road with any bikes, big or small, enjoying the scenery and embracing the wind is something that tops an enclosed sport car.

Share with us a little about the big bikers associations we have in Sarawak. Who are they and what do they do? Are the groups open to just anyone and can amateursparticipate to learn safer ways to gainbetter control over the wheels with experts in the group?

It is more like a group of people with the same specific interest coming together. Some of them have organized eventsthat put lots of colours into our local biking scene and wehave a few bike weeks in Sarawak every year. The group ispretty much open to anyone of the same interest, it is all tomaximize the fun out of a shared passion. For amateurs to gainbetter knowledge and skills, the first best way is to seek forprofessional trainers or sign up for training courses. There is a company call TRUEVENTS, a good friend of mine manages it and has put in much effort to organize advance riding courses throughout Borneo. It is really good and I would recommend it to anyone who have interest in riding to take up this course. You can contact Otovendor Sdn Bhd for further details.

From your experience as an entrepreneur, what are the most important elements to strive in our Sarawak/Malaysia market?

I think good intention and sincerity are the most important. I am lucky that throughout my effort in developing the business, I have family who have faith in me, supportive friends and a team who are willing to work together with me. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank them all.

Any advice for young entrepreneurs inSarawak out there?

Dare to dream! Go get it with a clear conscience without any bad intentions towards people.

One might say that it would be wiser to tap into a large existing market but what drives me most is the motivation to create new things, newventures and benefiting experiences for our local community.It is my aspiration and I look forward to it everyday. - Dean Kuan

More than just a bike, its a lifestyle.Elaborate more on this statement.

Every type of motorcycle has its own unique identity aside from being just a transport. Owning a motorcycle is like buying an album, discovering the tracks in it and grow to appreciate the artist behind it even more. It is probably easier for one to understand if you compare your fascination towards fashion, sports or music etc. Now imagine yourself as a supermodel, a sportsman or a rock star, us bikers dress accordingly to our ride and occasions. Every product is designed to represent something and our choice of motorcycle often is a choice that alludes to our personality. It is safe to say that for many bikers, the riding gels into our life and creates something new for each of us. Thus, becoming part of our lifestyle.

PitsterproLXM125R

She loves bling! She loves food! She loves fun, colours and crafts!Most of all, she loves being a Sarawakian!

Profile:. Top 6 Finalists of hit TV-reality show MasterChef Malaysia Season 1 2011. Author of recipe cook book Secubit Garam Sesudu Gula 2013. Featured celebrity chef in Chef All Stars 2014.. Fashion Jewelry Designer and creator of the brand BRICKcessories. Proud owner of Craez caf serving western food in Kuala Lumpur. Consultant for Malaysian Youth Profiling Indicator (MYProdigy) project. Liaison with Malaysia Paper Board in developing local recipes and promoting Sarawaks black pepper. Frequent guest starred on local radio station CatsFMs Sarawaks food trail segment and television cooking programs

The Life Changing Experience- MasterChef Malaysia Season 1, 2011

A lthough the franchised reality show only had a run of two seasons in Malaysia, it did however achieved its purpose to inspire and elicit young talented cook for that is where it all began for food lover Imelda who took up the courage to participate in the show. From casual bantering among friends and family, it became a reality. It started off with filling in a form of 60 questions followed by personality interview while presenting a dish to the judges. Imelda got her ticket to the next stage with her vibrant personality and with her first dish - lentil and prawn with rice soup that won the judges heart.

Every episode, the participants faced elimination with different challenges that put their skills and creativity in the kitchen to test. Imelda made it to the Top 40 by surviving the third challenge of replicating a dish within an hour. She recalled the intensive one week classes to be the most taxing as there were so much to learn within such limited time. Various technical skills had to be mastered in order for the participants to move on to the Top 24 such as the onion chopping challenge and skills of separating egg yolks and grating coconuts to produce a meringue. The higher the stages, the tougher itbecame. The pressure was beyond her expectations as participants were quarantined for 3 months without any gadgets and only twice a week were they allowed to make their restricted 10 minutes phone call. However, it was also this isolation of the participants from the world as they know that brought them to a higher level of understanding towards food. Here, was a common ground for individuals who shared the same passion and it became the platform for them to mingle and exchange their ideas and knowledge. The experience enlightened Imelda with all the possibilities she can achieve with her love for food and it is here that our very own celebrity chef was born.

As a proud Sarawakian, she added a touch of Sarawak into every dish she made regardless of the type of cuisines they were asked to produce. She presented her very own inventions to the judges including duck Pak Lo, Tempoyak Goreng, Fish Botok, Sarawak Black Pepper Muscle, and Prawn Umai. Her culture and origins are elements that were already intertwined in her daily life and she made good use of adapting them into her cooking. She realized then how unique Sarawaks cuisines are in terms of cooking styles or the rare local ingredients we have; it simply has so much to offer! This was the very inspiration that created her proud winning dish -Prawn Umai Sri Kenyalang.

HAPPENINGS PERSONALITIES Journey to Success

13Volume 24 | October

Meet celebrity chef

Imelda Maya Harriswho has lived a fulfilling life of dreams and passion pursue!

Cooking is a story best told through a plate

- Imelda Maya Harris, 33

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Back to the beginningThere are a few key characters who have taught Imelda how to cook - her mother, aunts, and the chefs she watched on television. Imelda comes from a family who all shared one similarity, and that is to traveland explore other cultures especially their food! From all the unique tastes she had the chance to savor, it motivated her into a quest ofhunting for more diversities of food flavours and textures. She then taught herself to replicate these dishes she has observed and tasted. She will attempt them tirelessly until she gets the satisfied result. Imelda has also imagined herself as a chef cooking on live television programs. One of her idol would be Malaysias renown Chef Wan. He uses simple techniques that allow viewers to learn them easily and the energy hebrings into a kitchen was what attracted Imelda the most.

Overtime, she has expanded and developed her own distinctive styles of cooking. Heres Imeldas views on cooking prospective:

The more you try, the more experiments you make,the more the techniques you learn, the more flavors you will create.

A Love to ShareWhat I love about cooking is thesatisfaction that I get from serving and making people happy. It is priceless. Cooking with sincere heart and love brings out the best of every dish! Cooking also has feelings. When you are cooking for someone, you reflect that individuals taste and preferences. At the same time, you also get to know more about yourself. To be a good cook, keep exploring and find your own true colours and strength from within because basically, what you feel inside is what you serve. Happy cooking, happy food, happy tummy!

It was a fantastic experience in my life. It was not about winning a competition but about the realization that food could bring people together, regardless. And to fuse with a group of people who speak the same language is beyond anticipation!

On her First Cooking EncounterAs a curious and adventurous child at the age of 6, me and my cousins decided to play cooking for real with a brand new pot that my mother bought. We used coconut coir as a fire starter and began to cook the leaves. Of course the smoke from that got us caught red-handed!


Today, Imelda is sharing her passion and experience through

all the opportunities that come along the way; in recipe

books, on television, on radio, through various collaborations

and also through her own restaurant. She looks forward to

expand her restaurant chain in Kuching with a singular label

that represents Sarawak. We cant hardly wait as well!

Here I would like to dedicate my passion with everyone. I believe thatby combining the things that I enjoy most, it will give more pleasure andstories for me to share. I hope each of the pieces of art that I share with you will bring you more joy and more love.Photo: From left, Imelda Harris, Nur Rawina, Kirubananthini, Vincent Kong

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT Traditions vs Modernity

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OCTOBER

The first Halloween fun-run ever to be createdin Borneo to promote healthy lifestyleand community spirit amongst generalpublic especially the Youths. Organized byOurYouth.my to create awareness andencouraging a caring society, all fund raised are given back to charity houses in need.

Monster Dash Charity Run 2.0,3rd October

Held in Miri at the Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club, AMF is a two days musical event featuring musicians from ASIAN countries namely India, Korea, Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines and Malaysia. AMF promotes Asian music, art and culture.

Asia Music Festival 2014 (AMF),4th - 5th October

NOVEMBER

Santubong Nature Festival,8th - 9th November

An annual event organized by The Malaysian Nature Society Kuching Branch at Permai Rainforest Resort. The event is open to the public and features outdoor activities such as treasure hunt, nature heritage walks, boat trips and many more.

CityOne Megamall Kuching continues to promote modern dance culture by providing a platform for talented young dancers in the region. Public are welcomed to witness the competition showcasing various dance styles.

Borneo Talent Award,20th - 23rd November

A talent competition opened to allMalaysians at Sibu Civic Centre.

3rd Traditional Tattoo Expo 2014 - The Revival,28th - 30th November

A Borneo Tattooing event featuring both local and international tattoo artists from all around the world including Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Australia, Japan, Holland, England, Germany, United States of America and many more. The event is organized by Monkey Tattoo Studio to promote Sarawaks tattoo as an art form of its own and to provide a platform for congregation of experts and new artists in order to alleviate the tattoo industryin Sarawak. Other highlights of the eventincludes art exhibition and bazaar , tattoocompetition, sape performance and many more.

Venue: Le Park, Civic Centre

DECEMBERMiri City Christmas Parade,6th December

A combined effort from all the churches in Miri and Miri City Council to celebrate this jovial festive occasion with the aim of promoting it as one of the signature events taking place at the main street of Miri.

This 3-months long fest is segmented through: The Malaysia International Gourmet Festival, the ASEAN Food Heritage Trail, Street Food Festival and the Restaurant Food Festival. Enjoy tastes and culinary styles of various local delicacies that exist nationwide through this enticing event.

Fabulous Food 1Malaysia,October - December 2014

24th Sarawak Chief Minister Cup (II) ITF Junior Circuit (Grade 3)14th - 16th October 2015

A tournament by Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association that has attracted hundreds of participants from all around the world for 24 consecutive yearsFind out more at: www.itfsarawak.org.my

October - December 2014Happenings Events

An annual fund-raising music concert at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching showcasing both Malaysian and international artistes in support of the upkeep of the Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals(SSPCA) animal shelter. The event alsoincludes a festive bazaar, pet blessing and wiggle waggle walk.

WAG Music Festival 2014,24th - 25th October

International Drum Festival,21st November

DBKU MOUNTAIN BIKE CHALLENGE1st - 2nd November

This sport event is made for fans of extreme mountain bike riders to test their cycling skills. The challenge will be divided into categories such as Downhill, MTB XC Time Trail, MTB Cross Country XC categories and Team Relay. Those interested to take part can obtain the entry forms from DBKUs Communication and Community Development Division at level one, DBKU headquarter, Bukit Siol, Jalan Semariang.

Pesta Sematan 20147th - 9th November

This is a community event by Sematan District Office promoting traditional sports, foodand arts. A fine tradition of the area is theGendang Melayu- drum orchestra accompanied by lyrics sung on the go and joget (dance). There will be performances by the Sambas Cultural troupe to reflect the close proximity of Sematan with Kalimantan Indonesia.

Venue: Sematan, Lundu, Kuching

Dance Styles Competition,16th November

An event by Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara that highlights on drums and percussion music from various ethnic groups from around the world.

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Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia that is rich with cultural diversities and natural beauty to explore. When it comes to making travel plans, we all wish to explore as much as we can within the permitted time frame and budget which are the two key deciding factors for most travelers. Some may perceive that it is expensive to include Sarawak as one of their travel

destinations due to the distance to travel from one spot to another may be relatively further. The common perception is that when the distance is far, it takes more time, and it takes more cash as well. For those who are unfamiliar with the whereabouts and the time it takes to visit a place, they could easily have such a misconception especially when referring to general tourist guide books with listing of recommended vacation spots that are located far from one another.

It is certainly not the case if proper planning and research is done prior to making the trip itself. Truth is, Sarawak remains a developing state with plenty of destinations that are yet commercialized. Most iconic spots in the cities of Sarawak can be completed within 2-3 days and local delicacies are all fairly cheap in comparison to other big cities in Malaysia. You can enjoy a wholesome meal within RM10, bus fares are cheap and car rentals are affordable as well. It is not possible for us to include all the destinations that promises great adventures within just a few pages, but heres a start to make sure that you visit not just the city, but also include the great outdoors in your travel plans when you visit Sarawak, because right there, lies the gem of the land of Hornbill - culture, heritage and unscathed beauty of nature. Here are three holiday destinations that are located nearby to each other and you can complete them within 2-3 days, saving you cash, time, but offering you all the more dose of excitement!

Annah Rais Longhouse is a Bidayuh Longhouse located at a small district call Padawan. It takes only about an hour from the city for you to witness the traditional way of life of the Bidayuhs, known as the Land Dayaks. The longhouse has existed for more than a century since 1834, it is a living heritage on its own. The longhouse has existed for more than a century and you will be experiencing life as it was upon visiting this heritage. The structures, walls and flooring were designed and built by the ancestors way before any big machines came about. Here is a home for many built out of natural resources mainly the varieties of bamboos species, wood and dried sago palm leaves.

The descendants still live in their houses, so visitors will beable to observe and experience their everyday life. Fear not ofapproaching them in person as they are friendly and welcoming towards visitors. The internationally renowned European mural artist Ernest Zacharevic has also made a pit stop at this very longhouse and left three pieces of his valuable art here.

A little further down the longhouse, there is a hot spring that co-exists with a flowing river named Annah Rais Hotspring. One may be surprised that Sarawak too has a hot spring without a volcano. The hot spring is separated from the river water using granite. Visitors can sit on the granite to dip their feet comfortably. The river water is cold, refreshing and its depth is suitable for people of any age.

Annah Rais offers not only a great longhouse experience but also allows you to relax at its hot spring.Price guide:Annah Rais Longhouse - RM8 per adult & RM5 per childAnnah Rais Hotspring - RM5 per person & RM3 per child

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DISCOVER SARAWAK: Destination Highlight

EXPERIENCE SARAWAKby Tiu Kian Wee

Annah Rais Longhouse

Kampung Danu is a small village located at Padawan as well. It is about 20 minutes drive from Annah Rais Longhouse. The Bidayuh village has approximately 400 populations currently. Kampung Danus main attraction would be the suspension bridge that the visitors have to cross in order to enter the village. Upon entering the village, you will fall in love with the serenity and cleanliness of the village. The village has actually received a number of awards for its well-kept cleanliness.

The pebble river at Kampung Danu is another amazing sight to experience. Many activities can be conducted by the pebble river, such as picnic, fishing and campfire especially during the dry season. During the festive months (June and August), the local authority will organize many interesting activities such as Gawai Concert and Bamboo Rafting Competition. Make sure you visit also the villagers farm and plantation of pepper, pineapple and cocoa. These remain their livelihood for the since the olden days. The richness of the land and its natural resources are inseparable from the villagers life.

Kampung Danu

Kampung Danu offers a serenity that is obsolete and much sought-after by city folks.


Price guide: Semadang Discovery Kayaking - RM188 per person (Inclusive of Bidayuh Traditional Lunch, Equipment, River Guide, Return Transfer from Kuching, and complimentary Photo DVD.)

Kampung Semadang

Embrace the beauty of nature by kayaking at Kampung SemadangKampung Semadang is another wonderful Bidayuh village located at Padawan. The most popular activity here would be kayaking. The kayaking adventure is done within the perimeters of Kampung Semadang. This adventure allows you to be at one with the crystal clear river surrounded by water-eroded stones and all within the tranquility of a tropical rainforest. You will be able to indulge yourself with the popular Bidayuh traditional delicacies after a thrilling kayaking adventure. Aside from kayaking, one can also opt for bamboo rafting or caving activities as well.

. kurakura.asia . www.danuvillagestay.com . www.semadangkayak.com . www.longhouseadventure.com . www.kuchingholidays.comcredits

Transportation . Semadang Kayak travel package includes transportation from Kuching. No public bus is available in Padawan. Taxi for Hire: Kuching Taxi Centre (082-343343 / +6 082-348898). Licensed Car Rental Service: Kuching Holidays & Car Rental Sdn Bhd (016 885 5955 / 082 463318).

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Travel Tips & GuidesTravel Tips & GuidesHere are some useful tips that may come in handy when visiting Sarawak

An award winning homestay within the Padawan region. Latitude N180836 Longitude E11015.907, a spot that surrounds you with nature and serenity. The premise is located just 10 minutes from Annah Rais authentic Longhouse. Enjoy great hospitality within the atmosphere of a village. The homestay serves continental breakfast, buffet lunch and dinner of local cuisine with drinks. You can opt for a BBQ dinner or request for kitchen facilities should you prefer to do your own cooking. The main guest house with sharing bathrooms and common lounge area caters to family or bigger groups; Mountain View and River View Chalets with veranda are also available. It is spacious, homely and breezy, you will look forward to returning here to enjoy the evening sun and a wholesome meal after your day of activities at the villages.

bidayuhlonghouse.blogspot.com

The Bidayuh Annah Rais Long House Homestay

3. Security and SafetySarawak is one of the safest and most visitor-friendly states in the world and you will be amazed by the hospitality given by the Sarawakians. Most locals are able to converse in basic English and will be more than glad to assist you with directions. However, avoid carrying too much cash in hand. Stay alert and keep a low profile to not become a victim of opportunistic snatch theft. Avoid traveling alone in dark empty streets at night.

2. Customs RequirementsWhen you reach Sarawak, you will have to go through customs check again although you might have been stamped into Malaysia (e.g. via Kuala Lumpur). Sarawak is a unique state that has its own custom regulations. So, dont be surprised to have your passport stamped just to enter Sarawak.

1. Sarawak Malay Dialect. Aok (a ohk) = Yes or Okay. Sik (seek) = No. Sigek (see-gek) = One

. Kamek (Kar-make) = Me

. Kitak (Key-tak) = You

. Nyaman (nyah-mun) = Delicious

4. WeatherTropicall, humid, sunny, rainy. Temperature between 25C - 30C all year long. Monsoons come between the months from November to March. Shorts, t-shirts and sandals are best for the tropical weather.

5. Banks & Money ChangersThese centrally located banks and money changers handle both travellers cheques and cash. Most banks open Mon-Fri 9.30am - 4pm.. Ambank, Lower Ground Floor, Plaza Merdeka Mall. Hong Xi Enterprise, Ground Floor, Tun Jugah. Public Bank, 101 Jln Song Thian Cheok (behind Everrise)

6. Telephone FacilitiesFrom outside the Kuching area, the dialling code is 082. Malaysias country prefix is 60. To avoid expensive roaming charges, prepaid SIM cards for cellular phones are on sale almost everywhere - IC or passport required.

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DISCOVER SARAWAK

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EDITORS PICK

It was the 1990s, everything I saw inside the museum is imprinted in my head. I remember all the natives murals, especially the Orang Ulu Tree of Life that fascinated me the most. And like a plain white piece of paper, I absorbed them all.His journey could not have been more down-to-earth and his passion towards the art of tattoo was as genuine as it can be. Opposite from what one may presume, Jeremy did not actually excel in any of his art classes in school, he was not keen on drawing with a pencil or on a paper; it was purely carvings and only mural patterns. His many trips to the museum turned into a carving venture with almost anything a young boy could get ahold of. This included keys, metal rulers, compass needles, pretty much any tools that were sharp enough to carve on wood. His passion carried on into his teenage years experimenting with sewing needles attached to a regular 2B pencil and Chinese calligraphy ink.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: ART & CULTURE

Would you have already known your destiny at the age of 7? What was your ambition and how did you spent your after school hours? Does your childhood fascination defines who you are today? For young Jeremy Lo (now at age 31), his childhood was spent exploiting Borneos oldest museum (since 1891) - the Sarawaks State Museum. Young Jeremy wandered the museum among the exhibits of ethnographic artifacts 5 days a week like it was his playground without ever getting weary of his exploration. The 7 years old boy who lived across the museum spent his after school hours loitering into the old building that holds Sarawaks history collection is now the proud owner of Monkey Tattoo Studio. It has been 13 years of career as a professional tattoo artist for Jeremy Lo whose name is already renown among the tattoo community across the globe. Both locals and foreigners would specifically come to him for a unique hand-tapped traditional ink. His work is also featured in the Black Book, a collection of outstanding traditional tribal tattoos from artists around the world.

It is a fascination that cant really be explained. Just like anyone else who may be interested in a certain subject, I started reading a lot of books, hear a lot of stories from natives who were patronage to my grandfathers old store. Anything that has to do with tattoo arouses the curiosity in me. It is a fascination to the patterns and the cultures that come along with it. Later, I traveled to a lot of longhouses, belonging to various tribes, and it was there I heard many first hand stories from ancestors who are already gone today. That, I will always treasure and they are something that I retain and express through the art of tattoo. - Jeremy Lo

An Extraordinary Tale Behindthe Ordinary Life of a Boy Who

Has a Curious Fascination

Jeremys featured artwork

Share with us some examples of what one can discover and learn through local traditional tattoos from the knowledge and insights of which you have gathered over the years. Aside from Iban culture and art, are you also familiar with other natives background?

It is actually quite sad to say this but I learn the most from history books written by the Dutch explorers, British or Holland missionaries etc. They wrote a lot and took many photographs from what they have discovered during the colonial days. All these are gem that are close to gone. The truth is, our aborigines art and culture and their significance are actually very similar with slight differences. It is the patterns that set them apart from each other. They do this so as to have unique designs that distinguish their tribe and identity from one another. No one can trace all the way back to claim for certain where tattoo really originated from; but heres a closer truth to its purpose during the earlier days. Tattoo art served mainly for aesthetic purposes such as beautification (like make-up) and they set a caste system among the ladies. As far as anybody has written, this is most

prominent with the Kayan women, what we categorize as the orang ulu group today. In some other cases, tattoo also served as a belief practice or ritual to be rid of evil spirits.

There were so many smaller tribes back then that we do not know of and probably has no record of. It was only later that the categorizing of tribes was done. Back then, tribes have a practice call bejalai (local term for walking). Bejalai is a journey made by tribesman to the unknown for gaining knowledge and wisdom. It is also considered a rite of passage into adulthood. They travel to expand their grounds, migrating as a result of wars, intermarriage and so on. So the art transformed and diversified as they traveled. Traditional tattoo de-signs are not definite, they are adapted to the tribes life experiences, where they live, what they practice, and it is simply impossible to uncover all the stories but one thing for sure, Borneo is best known to possess the oldest and richest tattoo history. Tattoo artists from all around the world are aware of this and they come here to discover and to share their portion too. When we have international conventions, that is where

that is where the exchange of art and culture takes place.

Tribal tattoos are very significant as they are inspired from real life stories, or folktales translated into art, they represent a persons spiritual power and life force. In the modern tattoo world, these have all become art more than heritage. It is like a new form of culture created through tattooing while sti l lretaining its origins at the core. So we are hoping to play a part to preservethis dying culture as they are after all designs inspired by our native ancestors.

For this issue of , we aim to uncover more of Sarawaks heritage and culture, so we took the opportunity to gather a portion of them through Jeremy who has acquired a generous amount of knowledge and exposure along his journey, as a tribal tattoo artist.


What are the most commonmisconceptions that Sarawakians or Malaysians have about tattoo?

I like this one! Tattoos do not belong to people who are bad and it do not spread diseases! Those are all very misleading representations. Hygiene is actually the biggest concern for all professional tattoo artists and you can almost call us clean freaks! As long as you go to a profession-al tattoo artist, you do not have to worry about getting diseases such hepatitis or HIV because the sterilization process is a compulsory procedure. Do your research,

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: ART & CULTUREask around and make sure the artist is registered and experienced or maybe even has a hygiene certificate. You can have the tattoo artists explain how the sterilization process is done. Standard tattoo should all come with Nitrile gloves, needles from a brand new pack, and autoclave sterilization.

Also, people always ask if its painful, do Google: Is it painful to tattoo. They have the best answers for you. Like anything else, everyones tolerance is different but very often, the pain is not as bad as you have imagined it to be. With technology nowadays, there are professional tattoo equipment that conceal the needles and the sound from the machine. They are extremely sharp and penetrates smoothly less than 0.2cm skin deep. The pain is often exaggerated in your mind.

Aside from tattooing for a living, what do you wish to achieve as a tattoo artist? And what efforts have you devoted yourself to in order to achieve that goal?

Back then when I first started, tattoo was really not as accepted as compared to now. The first time I tried to organize an international tattoo convention in 2010, it was really tough to kick it off on your own without any support. Now there are more who are willing to look past all the misconceptions, see the potential of the event in promoting Sarawak, and accept it with an open mind. For this years convention, Ive found OurYouth.my that caters to youths passion and is willing to support my event. I wish that we will have more young talented tattoo artists in Sarawak doing traditional tattoos, not just in Sarawak but bring it out to the world and promote our heritage. To contribute to this, I teach and share my knowledge to them wherever I can.

I have traveled at my own expense to many countries to ensure that there is at least one Sarawaks representative attending International Conventions at

London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Japan just to name a few. To provide the same opportunity for both artists from other countries and also for our local talents here who do not have the same privilege to travel overseas for such an experience, I decided to take the initiative to organize Traditional Tattoo Expo right here in Kuching Sarawak.

Share with us a little on whatthe public can expect from theupcoming 3rd Traditional Tattoo Expo in November 28th - 30th 2014. Will it be an event that is made for tattoo enthusiasts only or an event that the general public can enjoy as well?

Yes, the public can definitely be a part of it. First of all, it is free. Secondly, you get to experience and witness professional tattoo artists from all over the world in action. You will get to know about this art better. In the recent years, more and more locals have begin to show appreciation and realize the value of tattoo art. Some would even specify to have local traditional patterns inked on them, as their own way of preserving their identity and heritage. Believe it or not, I have regular clients behind those suits, such as lawyers, woman doctors, and many more. So I would not generalize it to still belonging to only the minority.

Finally, do you have any suggestions on ways we can retain our unique heritage and culture among the younger generations especially?

Send more young local professionaltattoo artists from representative studiosto participate in international tattooconventions. Many can also be a part to support the organizing of this annual international tattoo event in Sarawak.

All these are educational and they spread awareness about our culture. I am fairlycertain that we have already lost a number of passionate young talents who

have given up along the way. Chances are, we could risk losing this heritage from our ancestors entirely over time as they will gradually diminish from one generation after the next. We should embrace what is truly ours, especially. We should not wait for something to be accomplished by someone else first and then only take notice or interest in it, because all success has to begin from somewhere, and that is initiative and active participation. Everyone can play a part in retaining our heritage and culture as long as you take actions towards what you care about.

Interviewed by Clara Liew

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Tattoo Conventions

The 3rd Traditional Tattoo Expo is expected to be bigger and better! Thousands have visited the previous two Expos in year 2012 and 2013. It caught the attention of top international tribal tattoo artists and the previous convention was even covered by famous tattoo journalist Travelling Mik who writes for Tattooweir Mangazine, one of the biggest tattoo magazines in Europe.This convention highlights the art and culture especially that of Sarawaks. Every year, competitions will be held to put a light on young local talents. The success of the last two conventions have produced new talents and more significantly, it raised awareness towards the dying art. It has also sparked interests from around the globe towards Borneo art. The 3rd Traditional Tattoo Expo boasts a substantial list of tattoo artists specializing in traditional/tribal tattoos and also modern expressionist tattoos, colours, portraits, lettering, Oriental and more.

E: [email protected] Monkey Tattoo Studio

To make an appointment, click the artists name or link on the Expos page and send them an inquiry.Early bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment.

This convention is FREE ENTRY for all.

Find a list of all participating artists on this site:www.facebook.com/tattoo.expo.borneo

Teha, Sweden (Specializes in Hand poke Tattoos esp spiritual symbols such as mandalas) Ricky Sta Ana of Skinworkz Manila, Phillipines

(Organizer of the infamous Dutdutan Tattoo Convention and one of the master behind Kons tattoo) Dmitri Babakhin, Russia (Renowned for Polynesian and Borneo-inspired work)

Taku Oshima, Japan (Modern expression of global tribal tattoos) Jimmy Wong, Thailand (Sak Yant Tattoos)

Boy Skrang, Sarawak (Founder of Skrang Tattoo Borneo)(Best known for his lineage of traditional Iban tattooing and a warrior village style also known as Pantang Iban)

And more artists from Singapore, Sabah, West Malaysia Croatia, USA, and Switzerland.

3rd TraditionalTattoo Expo 2014


Le Park, Civic Centre, Kuching, Sarawak28th to 30th November 2014

From 10.00am - 10.00pm

LIFESTYLE Phoenix Gym

Starving yourself doesnt work.Unless you know how.There are some people who think by depriving themselves of food, it will somehow help them achieve the body of their dreams. This is a total fallacy. You deprive your body of necessary nutrition it needs in order to run properly and run the risk of severe long-term damage. There is an exception to this rule however, and that is through what is called Intermittent Fasting, or (IF) in short.

How it works is that when you eat, your body takes time to process it, burning all the available energy. And because you have resupplied your body with easy to burn energy, it will focus on burning this first before it burns your bodys existing fat stores. So by eating only in certain time windows of the day, you can rapidly accelerate fat loss. BE WARNED though. If you are considering IF, its important to read up on it. Theres a wealth of information online for your reference. Doing this wrongly could be harmful for your health.

If you do not have the discipline to do IF the right way, your best bet is to eat small meals regularly through the day, thus keeping your metabolism firing.

Not all calories are created equal.It is vital that you give your body the required amount of carbohydrates, fats and protein. Allow me to stress this, ensure that they are CLEAN sources. If youre trying to lose fat and yet you count calories whilst eating chips and burgers, Im sorry to say, youre doing it wrong. Focus on clean sources of macro-nutrients, and by clean, I mean foods that provide energy and nutrition without doing damage. The fat in coconut milk, for example is a great source of clean fat. For carbohydrates, sweet potatoes are fantastic. When it comes to protein, fish is great. There are many clean sources out there, but it is important for you to do your own research and compile your a list of clean foods that you personally enjoy.

If you always do what youve always done, youll

always get what youvealways gotten.

Article by: Dan LingDirector of Phoenix Gym

So what should I be eating?Fresh, whole foods. You can never go wrong with lean meat, fish, fruits and vegetables. Remember though, that these should be prepared with minimum oil and sauce. You may have the freshest slab of salmon, but if you smother it in mayo, youre missing the point. When youre cooking meat and vegetables, do not drown them in oil.

Almonds, nuts and berries are also fantastic energy boosters that provide energy and nutrition. Drink at least 3-4 litres of water per day. Water helps to facilitate fat loss, as well as clear toxins out of your system. Eliminate empty carbs from your diet by keeping rice and noodles to a minimum. Stay away from processed food as they contain so many preservatives and other junk that they do more damage than good. Start following these steps, and I guarantee you will start losing fat, and build a stronger, healthier body.

It comes down to discipline, and common sense. The funny thing about common sense however, is that you would often realize it is not all that common! So for your own sake, research and learn more about your individual body type, and what foods are ideal for you!

Healthy living, everyone!


Diet MythsBUSTED!

Diet Myths

As a fitness industry professional, I am always surprised by the amount of misconceptions about dieting. People often ask me what to eat to lose weight, and when I quizzed them about what they have been eating, the answers are often shocking to me. Here are 2 common mistakes that desperately need addressing.

Maison Monica Hair and Beauty AcademyNo 5D Arcade Shop Kenyalang Park Shopping Centre,93300 Kuching Sarawak Malaysia(T) 082 332 416 / 082 482571(F) 082 341839

Career Possibilities for Graduates:

Professional Hairstylists Professional Beauty Therapist (Facial & Body) Aromatherapists Reflexologist Professional Make-up Artist Professional Nail Technician Salon Owner/ Manager Image Consultant Technical Consultant to Hair, Beauty and Nail Products Company Trainer Examiner for National and International Exams Expert Adviser to Body Examination Competition Judges

PASSIONPERSEVERANCE

PROFESSIONALISMGot a flair for hair and beauty?

Founded since 1971, Maison Monica Hair & Beauty Academy is probably the oldest and most established salon in Sarawak. Apart from offering hair styling, beautician consultancy, bridal make-up services, the organisation also provides the young people of Sarawak the opportunity to better themselves in their quest for professional hairdressing and beauty therapy training. Maison Monica is offering courses and training leading to both national certificates, such as JPK (MLVK) and international certificates and diplomas, such as CIDESCO (Swizterland), ITEC (UK) and CIBTAC (UK). Other certificate training includes Pivot Point (USA) Hairstyling Diploma, City & Guilds (London) hairdressing and beauty therapy awards.

Here at Maison Monica, you can make a career out of your passion.

Maison Monica Hair & Beauty Academy

JPK

Branch63 Ground and First Floor, Jalan Tun Jugah,93350 Kuching Sarawak Malaysia(T) 082 578 429

(E) [email protected] (W) www.maisonmonica.com

3Then draw an outline of a skull using black colour.Apply black colour also for the eye and nose.

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Continue by using black eye shadow to smudge out the lines on the forehead and areasbelow the eyes. This will create a 3-D skull-impression. Finally! Complete your Halloween skull makeup by putting on your costume such as a black hood!

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Fo r t h e a r e a a b o v e t h eforehead, use black linersto create fine lines that give an illusion of the cracking of the skull.

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Start off with a white base, cover your forehead, cheeks, chin and mouth EXCEPT the eye area.

Brought to you by:The Official Makeup Artist for

Monster Dash 2.0

Makeup artistAngeline Kiew

ModelYvonne

LEISURE Fun Halloween DIY-Makeup

Next, draw lines right below the cheek bones extending from the corners of your mouth followed by drawing small vertical lines across the lips to create outline of the teeth.

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Fill in black colour below the fake teeth and below the cheek bones lines to create a hollow looking cheek.

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C l e a n s e y o u r f a c e a n dr e m o v e a l l m a k e - u p o rfoundation.

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HALLOWEEN

In conjunction with:


TECHNOLOGY

Sarawak is the largest of Malaysias 13 States and one of the two States located on the third largest island

in the world - Borneo. Known as the Land of the Hornbills, it is a unique and diverse gem in terms of its

population, culture, geography and history.Sarawaks head of state is the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (or

Governor). The State practices democracy system and the executive body is headed by Chief Minister. Sarawak

has a population of over 2.4 million with more than 25 ethnic groups. The multiculturalism is reflected in the

peoples lifestyles, cultural practices, heritage, art, food and experiences Sarawak has an equatorial climate.

The temperature is relatively uniform throughout the year -- within the range of 23 degrees Celsius early in the

morning to 32 degrees Celsius during the day. It is home to the Batang Rajang, Malaysias longest river and the

rainforest of Borneo is acknowledged to be among the worlds most distinct and species-rich.

FOR EMERGENCY, Police/Ambulance 999

*COMMUNICATION: Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) -- Malaysias pioneer telecommunications company provides telephone facilities throughout

the State, including most remote villages via fixed line and wireless services. Most areas in Sarawak also receive cellular

telecommunications coverage via the various service providers: Celcom, DiGi, Maxis, and Tune Talk. Pre-paid and postpaid packages, as

well as international roaming services are available.

KUCHING

Visitors Information Centre, Kuching Sarawak Tourism Complex, (Old Courthouse), Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching,Sarawak, Malaysia.

Tel. : +6 082 410 944Email : [email protected] Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm

USEFUL CONTACTS:

Fire Station 994/+6 082417712Sarawak General +6082276666Hospital

TransportationKuching International +6 082454242Airport Lost & Found +6 082401217Malaysian Airlines +6 082246622/(MAS)/ Maswings 1300883000Air Asia 1300 889933Taxi Radio Service +6 082482000/ 343343Express Bus +6082411111/(Biaramas) 456999

Immigration OfficeVisa, Pass & Permits +6 082410436 Passport +6 082429653

Postal ServiceGeneral Post Office +6 082242211Pos Laju (National +6 082339937Courier Service)

SIBU

Visitors Information Centre, Sibu Jalan Tukang Besi, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak,Malaysia

Tel. : +6 084 340 980Email : [email protected] Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm

USEFUL CONTACTS:

Fire Station 994/+6 084330343Sibu General Hospital +6 084343333

TransportationSibu Airport +6084307799Malaysia Airlines +6 084307871(MAS) Air Asia +6 084307871Taxi Service +6 084313384Express Bus +6 084344999(Biaramas)Express Boat +6 084319228(Express Bahagia)

Immigration OfficeVisa, Pass & Permits +6 084366882Passport +6 084333237

Postal ServiceGeneral Post Office +6 084315343 Pos Laju (National +6 084345998Courier Service)

MIRI

Visitors Information Centre, Miri Lot 452, Jalan Melayu, 98000 Mir i , Sarawak,Malaysia

Tel. : +6 085 434 180/181Email : [email protected] Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm

USEFUL CONTACTS:

Fire Station 994/+6 085420991Miri General Hospital +6 085420033

TransportationMiri Airport +6 085615433Malaysia Airlines +6 085414155(MAS)Taxi Service +6 085432277Express Bus +6 085414999(Biaramas)

Immigration OfficeVisa, Pass & Permits +6 085442104Passport +6 085442105

Postal ServiceGeneral Post Office +6 085433423

ABOUT SARAWAK

For Inquiries or to write in to us, visit: Visit www.happeningsarawak.com or https://www.facebook.com/HappeningsMagazine

For More Info on Sarawak, visit:

The Official Portal of the Sarawak Government http://www.sarawak.gov.my/en/media-centre

Sarawak Tourism Board at www.sarawaktourism.com


happenings in sarawak vol:24

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