For Connoisseurs #013

Top 10 Festivals To Visit Before You Die

pg 16 pg

20 pg 32pg

28

THE LIFE ISSUEA Hub For Medical Tourism

The Right to Humanity

Reinventing The British Pop Culture Icon 13

2013

not for saleIssue

#

Leica Store Avenue K - 03-2163 1818, E-mail: [email protected] @ StarhiLL GaLLery 03-2142-9633, E-mail: [email protected] camera aSia Pacific Pte Ltd Malaysia Representative Office-03-2142 2822, E-mail: [email protected]

NeW: Leica X2Every moment tells a story.

The compact Leica X2 is perfect for making each moment something truly special. It spontaneously captures life’s stories with authenticity in brilliant-quality pictures. With its new image sensor, its fast and extremely precise autofocus, and the ability to change instantly between automatic and manual control at any time, the capabilities of the German-made Leica X2 are as diverse as life itself. Its luxurious leather-style finish is also so inviting that you’ll never want to put it down. Leica X2 – for the sheer joy of photography.

Discover more at www.x2.leica-camera.com

Also available in black anodized finish.

For Connoisseurs4

Regards,George Wong,Publisher

Licensed by AD. House Marketing Services (001811719-X)

Content Provider Berkeley Advertising Sdn. Bhd. (1008821-P) B-3A-1, The Tube, Menara Prima, Prima Avenue, Jalan PJU 1/39, 47310 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. (O) +603 7887 5515

Publisher & Sub-Editor George Wong [email protected]

Editor-at-Large/ Photographer Szetoo Weiwen [email protected]

Art Director Archee Moong [email protected]

Designer Jasper Yong [email protected]

Sales Director Edward Chong [email protected]

Contributing Writer Mandy Leong [email protected]

Sub-Editor Anya Tan [email protected]

Advertising & Enquiries [email protected]

Printing Pakatan Tusen Cetak Sdn Bhd (763398-X) 11, Jalan SG 7/6, Taman Sri Gombak 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor License No. 046131

All images copyrights reserved for For Connoisseurs. For Connoisseurs is published every other month by Berkeley Advertising Sdn. Bhd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent from the Publisher. The opinions expressed in For Connoisseurs are those of the writers and the contributors and are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher. Images in this magazine are photographed and art directed by Berkeley Advertising or used with the permission from the provider. The Publisher accepts no responsibility for use of unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or other materials.

This latest installment is arguably our favorite issue to date and it’s probably due to our excitement working on this issue’s theme: The Life Issue. The cover, we believe, truly represents the mystery we call life. Despite the chaos that surround us and humankind’s endless pursuit of happiness, a simple idea or a passion for simplicity has changed the course of history, altering our way of life as we know it and progressing the existence of humanity one step at a time.

We pay homage to various aspirational individuals that have contributed to this evolution as well as perspectives & experiences on life-changing decisions from the everyday champions of humanity. No story is too small or too simple as we believe everyone has their own little part to play, regardless of circumstance. As highlighted by renown designer Philippe Starck, “No one has to be a genius, but everybody has to participate”.

Since the last issue, we wanted to allow more accessibility to our magazine so we’ve provided a digital subscription through our website so get connected with us! If you have any feedback that you would like us to address, do e-mail me at [email protected]

EDITOR'S NOTES

www.connoisseurs.my For Connoisseurs is the preferred magazine of:

THE LIFE ISSUE

13th issue | 2013TABLE OF CONTENTS

For Connoisseurs6

HIGHLIGHTSpg 9 Ligne Roset Sentul East

pg 10 Maserati Granturismo Sport

pg 11 BMW HP4

pg 12 Audi A1 Sport

pg 13 Canali Spring Summer 2013

pg 14 Godiva Spring 2013

pg 15 Sony BRAVIA 2013

FEATURESpg 16 Top 10 Festivals to Visit Before You Die

pg 20 Malaysia - A Hub for Medical Tourism

INTERVIEWpg 24 MME Martine Dorance, Ambassador of France

TRAVELpg 26 The Art of French Living Up in the Air

DRIVEpg 28 Reinventing the British Pop Culture Icon

PRESPECTIVEpg 32 The Right to Humanity

pg72 Definingthe'Right'Diet

HOME & LIVINGpg 35 Cool Pools at Klang Valley

pg 36 Parenting a Third Culture Child

pg 40 Timeless through Design

pg 43 Heart of the Household

TOP 10 FESTIVALS TO VISIT BEFORE YOU DIE

A HUB FOR MEDICAL TOURISM

REINVENTING THE BRITISH POP CULTURE ICON

wine.liebherr.com

Passion for Wine

■ The taste and aroma of fine wines blossom best at their ideal drinking

temperature – in the underbench wine cellar red and white wines can

be stored at the same time, both at their ideal serving temperatures

■ The two independently controlled storage zones can each be adjusted

to a precise temperature between 5ºC and 20ºC

Liebherr – the very best quality and performance from the refrigeration specialist.

Liebherr Sales Kluang Sdn. Bhd. Tel: +603 - 5638 [email protected]

13th issue | 2013TABLE OF CONTENTS

For Connoisseurs8

DESIGNpg 48 Philippe Starck - Set on Saving the World

pg 50 In Sympathy with Nature

ART SPACEpg 53 Sir Roy Calne - An Artist with A Scalper & Brush

pg 54 Bringing Art to the Masses

pg 56 Art Gallery

COUTUREpg 60 Fashion Trends for Summer 2013

pg 65 Jewelry Fit for Royalty

PENMANSHIPpg 68 The Legend Who Created a Universe

WINE CELLARpg 70 Thirst Quenching Coolers

pg 71 A Wine for All Occasion

GASTRONOMYpg 76 Kimchi Tuna Gimbap

pg 78 Viva La SousVide!

pg 80 Packing that Perfect Picnic Basket

IN SYMPATHY WITH NATURE

THE LEGEND WHO CREATED A UNIVERSE

DEFINING THE 'RIGHT' DIET

9

HIGHLIGHTS

LIGNE ROSET SENTUL EAST

The new showroom is located at Lot G-12, d6 at Sentul East, 801 Jalan Sentul, 51000 Kuala Lumpur.

Looking for inspiring contemporary European interiors? Ligne Roset, the renowned French design house of luxury design furnishings, announced a brand new showroom in Sentul East Design Centre showcasing a wide variety of delectable furnishings including sofas, bedroom furniture, dining tables and chairs, lighting as well as other accessories such as bowls, vases and rugs.

For Connoisseurs10

HIGHLIGHTS

MASERATI GRANTURISMO SPORT

One of the most celebrated designs in the world of sports cars, the new Granturismo Sport houses an impressive 4.7-litre V8 engine, boasting 338kW of power which delivers 0-100km/h in only 4.8 seconds. Available in both 6-speed automatic (MC Auto Shift) and electro-actuated 6-speed (MC Shift) tranmissions, the GranTurismo Sport also delivers a new generation of the Sport Skyhook active damping system and dual-cast brakes for maximum stopping power.

YoucanfindmoreinformationontheMaseratiGranTurismoSportatwww.maseratigranturismosport.com or contact Naza Italia Sdn. Bhd. at +603-79568599.

11

HIGHLIGHTS

BMW HP4

BMW Group malaysia unveiled the All NewBMWHP4,thefirstandlightestfour-cylinder powered motorcycle in its class under the High Performance family featuring a total displacement of 999cc, delivering 152kW (193hp) at 13,000rpm. This equates to a heart-stopping 0-100km/h sprint in just 2.9 seconds. A whole host of otherinnovationsincludeafirsteverDynamic Damping Control (DDC) suspension system, Dynamic Traction Control, Race ABS with IDM setting andtheLaunchControlfunction,afirstin a BMW motorcycle.

To discover more about the All New BMW HP4, visit their website at www.bmwgroup.com

For Connoisseurs12

HIGHLIGHTS

NEW AUDIA1 SPORTBACKAudi’s latest 5-door Sportback variation of the A1 tucks neatly into the premium subcompact segment that boasts a nippy 122hp engine with standard features notably 16-inch alloy wheels, Audi Concert radio system with 6.5-inch TFT color display and ESP with the latest differential lock system. An S upgrade option comes with 17-

inch alloy wheels from quattro GmbH, S line sports suspension and leather & cloth combination upholstery for a superiorrideandfinish.Remarkably,Audi is offering the Sportback variation at a competing price point with the 3-door A1 making it the most affordable Audi in its range.

TofindoutmoreaboutthelatestAudiA1Sportback,visitwww.audi.com.my

13

HIGHLIGHTS

CANALI SPRING SUMMER 2013Canali has spent the last 78 years perfecting menswear and the unlined, deconstructed, effervescent Kei Jacket certainly checks all the right boxes where eternal holiday and sartorial worthy looks are concerned. The Kei jacket was introduced by the Italian luxury brand eight years ago and prides itself in maintaining the fit and elegance of a traditional jacket while being light and summer ready at the same time. It’s the perfect travel companion given the specially developed fabrics that prevent wrinkling and now comes in vibrant hues of yellows, blues and rose pink.

For more information, visit www.valiramgroup.com

For Connoisseurs14

HIGHLIGHTS

GODIVA SPRING 2013Belgian Chocolatier GODIVA celebrates Spring with their Limited Cake Truffle Collection and Chef Collection. The Cake Truffle collection incorporates 4 heavenly divine cake inspired flavours from Butterscotch Walnut Brownies to the Pineapple Hummingbird Cake, into each chocolate. Imagine a sweet pineapple and banana ganache with velvety pecan cream cheese, paired with a white chocolate frost, that’s the latter for you. The Chef Collection is presented in a precious gift box contains 6 unique recipes for a total of 18 indulgent chocolates by Godiva’s Global Executive Chef Chocolatier, Thierry Muret.

To seek out these delectable goodies, visit www.godiva.my

15

HIGHLIGHTS

SONY BRAVIA2013

Sony announced its latest BRAVIA Internet TV lineup for 2013, boasting a total of 12 new models, meeting the needs of every market segment. Highlights include improved NFC integration through the BRAVIA’s one-touch remote control, unique Signal-to-Sound Architecture that greatly boosts the audio capabilities, redesigned ‘Sense of Quartz’ concept, improved X-Reality PRO picture processor for unprecedented quality and color accuracy as well as a new TRILUMINOS Display LED backlighting for enriched and authentic colors.

To discover more about the latest 2013 lineup, do visit www.sony.com.my

For Connoisseurs16

TOP 10 FESTIVALS TO VISIT BEFORE YOU DIEThere will come a day when the regular jet-setting routine will take its toll on you. Checking out tourist sites, museums, visiting the zoo, some markets, another museum and then concluding the trip with souvenir hunting. Check, check, check, been there done that! If your vacations are failing to entice you, then this is a list you might want to keep tucked in your planner the next time you’re planning your annual vacations. The quickest and most intense way to experience cultures and interact with the locals is by getting down and dirty with them at their festivals. With that in mind, here’s our list of "10 festivals to see before you die".

The Super Bowl is the annual championship game of the National Football League or better known as NFL, the highest level of professional American football in the United States. In this land of the free where almost everything is done in extremes, crowds fillupthestadium,pubs,parkinglots,diners or gather at home in front of the television to cheer on their favourite teams with chicken wings in one hand and a bottle of beer in the other. It is also the second largest event of food consumption in America, after Thanksgiving. Popular singers and musicians have also begun performing during the event’s pre game and halftime ceremony, increasing the popularity of the programme. It’s as close as you can get to a true American festival!

Super Bowl SundayUSA, in February

writer | Szetoo Weiwen

photography | Courtesy of TotalProSports Super Bowl Sunday

17

FEATURE

Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday” which refers to overindulgence in eating richer and fatty foods before fasting for Lent which begins on Ash Wednesday. A Christian holiday and popular cultural phenomenon, Mardi Gras dates back thousands of years to pagan spring and fertility rites. This festival of debauchery sees residents and visitors wear outrageous masks and costumes, enjoying the spectacular floats with imaginative themes and people tossing favors into the cheering crowd. In fact, most people admit to being extremely competitive and addicted to collecting these items which can be anything from doubloons to beans to medallions and onlookers go to the extreme of flashing in order to catch the attention of krewe members tossing favors from floats.

There are also dancing, sports competitions and parades for 12 days leading up to Lent. It’s hard to imagine any religious ties to this raucous festival. Mardi Gras is celebrated in countries with large Roman Catholic populations such as Belgium, Senegal, France, Germany and Brazil but the most popular place to celebrate has got to be in New Orleans, Louisiana (USA) where over 4 million people visit to party in what is known as the “greatest free party on Earth”.

Death is often a solemn affair but Mexico has a peculiar relationship with it, one that deeps dig into complex heritage and a turbulent history. You’d be forgiven to mistaken the Mexican custom El Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead as the US version of Halloween seeing as both events start at midnight the night of October 31 with images that reflect souls long gone and death but the similarities stop there.

In Halloween festivities, death is to be feared but for the Mexicans, death is something to be celebrated or at least the memories of the departed. In the weeks leading up to this event, stores are stocked with miniature coffins,skullsandskeletonsmadeofchocolate, marzipan, paper, cardboard or clay. Many are engaged in highly un-skeletonlike activities such as riding bicycles, playing music or getting married.

Wealthier families build altars in their homes with offerings such as cempasuchil flowers, sugar skulls, paper mache skeletons, ribbons, colored candles, tamales, fruit, corn, a container of water (to quench the thirst of the dead) and pan de muertos (bread of the dead). Others visit the cemeteries bearing wreaths of marigold, toys for the dead children, bottles of tequila, mezcal, pulque or atole for adults.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Rio's Carnivale is officiallythebiggestpartyontheplanet(sorry Mardi Gras) attracting millions of tourists who not only watch but join the parade. For 40 days and nights before Easter, Brazillians wake up to the sounds of samba and it’s also the last thing they hear before hitting the sheets. People can be seen dancing everywhere: on the streets, beaches, clubs, table tops and the parks as long as music can be heard. Excluding malls, industrial activities and the carnival workers, the country stops working almost for a week especially in coastal cities. In 2011, Rio de Janerio’s carnival saw over 4.9 mil participants with 400,000 being foreigners. During this period is also the most expensive time to visit Rio what with hotel rooms escalating up to four times more than the regular rates. Samba costumes can go up to $500 but you’d better have the body to go with it.

Mardi Gras New Orleans, in February and March

Day of the Dead Mexico, in November

Carnivale Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 46 days before Easter

The origins of this beautiful and meaningful celebration can be traced back to the indigenous peoples of Latin America, such as the Aztecs, Mayans Purepecha, Nahua and Totonac. It is believed that the dead continue to exist in a spiritual waiting room called Mictlan until they can return to their homes at that time of the year. Celebrants also paint their faces like skulls and hand out sugar skulls as gifts.

Day Of The Dead Carnivale

For Connoisseurs18

Young or old, everyone loves a good waterfight.Thephrase‘Songkran’meanswaterfightbutitisalsoconsidered as the Thai New Year usually occurring in April for three continuous days. Considering that April is also a hot month in Thailand, bring out the water guns, pails and hoses because you’re most likely to be doused with water if you head down to the streets! During Songkran, mostoffices,banks,familyrunshopsand restaurants are closed except shopping malls. It’s a good time to meet people and explore other aspects of culture. For the Thais, it is customary to visit the wat or Buddhist temples to pay respects to the Buddha. Water is poured on the face of Buddha statues to cleanse them.

Holi is celebrate with great pomp across India to welcome spring on the last full moon of the lunar month to commemorate the victory of good over evil over the demoness Holika by Hindu God of Preservation, Lorn Vishnu. It also marks the end of the winter season and the abundance of the upcoming spring harvest season. They do this by dousing each other in gulal or colored powder, having parties and consume bhang (a paste made from cannabis plants). People of all castes and religions come together to celebrate this festival and it’s great fun if you don’t mind getting wet and dirty. The colored powder doesn’t come off easily so you may want to rub coconut oil into your hair and skin before heading out into the streets.

Hadaka Matsuri is one of three most eccentric festivals in Japan where men strip down to nothing but loincloths (fundoshi)inafiercecompetitionfora pair of sacred lucky sticks called Shingi. This festival is held all over Japan during the cold season but biggest one takes place in Okayama, the birthplace of the festival where over 10,000 near naked men strip down for good luck and bountiful harvests. It begins with the crowd of men heading towards the central shrine shouting “Wasshoi! Wasshoi!” while carrying huge stalks of bamboo. Precisely at midnight, the sticks are thrown into the crowd and the men rush to grab a stick. Cold water is sprayed heavily on the raging men as they struggle ambitiously for the lucky charm. Even if you manage to grab a stick, it will be quickly snatched away by others. Each team carries a whistle to command the troop and enough sake to keep up the spirits. Anyone who gets hold of a shingi and manages to stick it upright inawoodenboxfilledwithricewillbeblessed with a year of happiness.

Songkran Festival Chiang Mai, Thailand, in April

Holi Festival of Colours India, in March

The Naked Festival (Hadaka Matsuri) Various cities in Japan, at various times

Songkran Festival The Naked Festival (Hadaka Matsuri)

19

FEATURE

Of the many Korean festivals, it is the Boryeong Mud Festival that attracts the largest number of international visitors. Like Woodstock and Mardi Gras, this festival proves that the human core is made of all things juvenile and reckless. Boryeong originally began in 1996 as a way to promote cosmetics made of mud from the Boryeong mudflats which are believed to be full of minerals, bentonites and germaniums.

During nine day period of this festival, the city of Boryeong swells with 200 tons of mud and 2 million visitors who just want to roll in it. Among the activities include mud wrestling, mud massages, mud dancing, acupunture and treatments utilizing the medicinal qualities of the mud, mud skiing, live music and plenty of large attractions erected in the seafront area of Daecheon. The festival ends with a largefireworkdisplayusuallyonthesecond weekend of July.

To-may-toes, to-mah-toes, doesn’t matter how you say it but here’s onefoodfightyou’llneverforget.LaTomatina is a festival held in the town of Bunol where an estimated 150,000 tomatoes are hurled at one another, you know, for fun. The festival is held on the last Wednesday of August as part of the week long festivities in Bunol. At 10 am, a whole ham is placed at the top of a greased pole while an entire singing and dancing crowd standing around it is hosed with water. People will then attempt to scale the pole for the ham. Once they dislodge theham,thetomatofightbegins.Thetomatoes come from Extremadura where they are more affordable and grownspecificallyforthethisholiday,hence lacking in flavour.

It is recommended to wear a pair of goggles and gloves before engaging inthefight.Tomatoesalsohavetobe crushed before throwing to avoid injury.Thefightlastsforonlyonehour,after which the whole town square is coloredredandfiretrucksarrivetoclean the area.

St. Patrick has become synonymous with Guinness on a global scale but up till the 1970s, March 17 was just another religious feast day in Ireland. The day commemorates St. Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland while celebrating the heritage and culture of the Irish. Celebrations include public parades and festivals while wearing green attire or shamrocks.The St. Patrick’s Day we all know today was actually invented in America where Irish immigrant soldiersinU.Sstartedthefirstparadeswhich spread to Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia.

Mud Festival Boryeong, South Korea, in July

La Tomatina Bunol, Spain, in August

St. Patrick's FestivalIreland, on March 17

Mud Festival La Tomatina St. Patrick's Festival

For Connoisseurs20

MALAYSIAA HUB FOR MEDICAL TOURISM

Decades ago, it was the norm for third world countries or developing nations to seek medical help from firstworldcountrieswhohadthefacilities and technologies for patients seeking treatments that are not readily available in their home countries.

However in recent years, medical costs have escalated dramatically in addition to long waiting periods inmanyfirstworldnationsresulting in patients looking out of the country for alternative and affordable treatments.

writer | Szetoo Weiwenedited by | George Wongphotography | Courtesy of MHTC

21

FEATURE

Global industry leaders began to notice this dynamic shift and as a result built world class facilities with world class doctors in developing countries to take advantage of this market. With the extremely high cost of modern medicine and procedures costing hundreds and thousands of dollars in the US and Europe, the cost and burden of travelling abroad is seen as a small price to pay for most in addition to a holiday for recuperation. Today, manyconsumersareableto‘shop’fortreatmentsthatbestfittheirbudgetand physical requirements. This phenomenon was eventually coined as medical tourism, where patients travelled abroad to address their

medical care needs. Medical tourism is yet another way that our world is getting a little bit smaller.

For those seeking affordable medical services abroad, Malaysia is being quickly recognized as one of the countries with immense potential in medical tourism. With constant regulation by the Ministry of Health and top-notch medical services that provides reliable, safe and effective treatments in comfortable surroundings with ease of access and affordable prices, Malaysia has certainly become a leading choice for foreign patients seeking healthcare treatment abroad. Treatments that are rated as best value in terms

of prolonged medical care here are namely cardiology, oncology, aesthetic surgery, robotic surgery, fertility treatment, bariatric surgery, orthopaedics, dental implants, ophthalmology, neurology and aesthetic procedures to even minimally invasive surgeries. The many private hospitals in the country boast some ofthefinestandbestequippedprivate medical facilities in the region helmed by highly trained English speaking doctors and specialists with international postgraduate qualificationsmostlyfromtheUnitedKingdom, Australia and the United States.

For Connoisseurs22

and programmes to helping healthcare travelers. Also, the government has beenprovidingfinancialsupporttoenhance the growth in this sector in addition to tax incentives for hospitals to fund accreditation and removing restrictions on the licensing of foreign specialists.

MHTC works closely with the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia and operates MHTC Careline, a dedicated call centre for international patients in addition to hosting a welcome lounge at the KL International Airport.MHTChasofficesoperating

in Dhaka, Jakarta and Hong Kong (serving Greater China, Japan and Korea).

This initiative is conducted amongst 75 out of 253 private hospitals throughout the country, all registered with MHTC to handle international patients and monitored by the Ministry of Health with standards recognized by the ISQUA. Malaysian hospitals pride themselves at performing on par with its local competitors within Asia as well as against international standards while offering more affordable costs compared to Singapore or Korea due

Although Malaysia’s presence in medical tourism trails behind

Korea, Singapore and Thailand, we have been modestly described as the best kept secret in medical tourism. In fact, according to the IMTJ Market Analysis, Malaysia is ranked as one of the top 5 medical tourism destinations in the world with the establishment of the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) in 2009 which aims to propel the nation as the destination of choice withintheAsia-Pacificregion.MHTCis a one-stop centre for everything related to healthcare travel, from answering queries regarding policies

23

FEATURE

treatments with great holidays in Malaysia. Medical tourists can obtain information pertaining to medical tourism via the MHTC Careline (+ 603 272 68 688), a medical travel call centreset-upspecificallytocatertoyour medical travel needs. As part of the continuous efforts to help travellers have a hassle-free holiday in Malaysia while having their medical needs taken care of, MHTC has now set up two useful touch points (Medical Concierge) at the KL International Airport (KLIA), the main gateway to the country.

to the government policy that hospitals must price healthcare services for international patients at the same level as domestic patients. Healthcare providers such as Gleneagles and the National Heart Institute have made further initiatives to obtain JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation to boost their reputations.

Famous for its welcoming people, sunny climate, exceptional infrastructure, delicious food and now outstanding yet affordable medical treatments, visitors have the opportunity to combine their

Above all, Malaysia’s excellent hospitality offers a rewarding experience at all levels. Visit www.medicaltourism.com.my for information on medical tourism in Malaysia.

24 For Connoisseurs

MME MARTINE DORANCE, AMBASSADOR OF FRANCE

France, being a developed country and the largest country in Western Europe, possesses the 2nd largest exclusive economic zone in the world. France has been a major power with strong cultural, economic, military and political influence in Europe and around the world.

writer | Mandy Leongphotographer | Jasper Yong

25

INTERVIEWFrance is a member of the G8 Group of leading industrialized countries and isrankedastheworld’sfifthlargesteconomy and Europe’s second largest economy by nominal GDP. Can you briefly share with us which industries that have placed France at this rank? What is your biggest defense weapon production industry that contributes that most towards your economy?

France is one of the world's leading countries in all innovative technologies. For many decades, France has developed high tech and high value-added industries. President de Gaulle and then President Pompidou conducted very proactive policies in this area by launching, for example, the French nuclear program. Today this energy furnishes 75% of all electricity produced in France.

France's leading industries produce machinery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, metals, aircraft, electronics equipment, environment and sustainable technologies. We have an extensive railway system. The firstofanumberofhigh-speedraillines (TGVs) was completed in 1983. Airbus, an European aerospace company founded in 1970 and based in Toulouse, produces half of the world’s jet airliners. Arianespace, a French company founded in 1980, is theworld'sfirstcommercialspacetransportation company. Today 10 European countries are shareholders of Arianespace.

We have more than 300 types of cheeses! – and are naturally, important French industries.

The defence industry in France is to assert our defence and diplomatic independence. France equips its armed forces largely from indigenous capabilities. In the process, the French industrial base developed several leaders in global defence technology: aircrafts such as Rafale, helicopters, space systems, naval vessels, submarines, radar devices, missiles, etc. Today, France strongly supports also the development of a European-wide defence industrial base.

Aside from the wines and champagne exports worldwide, what other agriculture products are also famous in France for exports?

Winesandchampagnesfigureasverywell known French products, thanks to their very high quality. A combination of landscapes, expertise and soil make our country one of the best places in the world for wines, champagne and spirits.

France is also the country of excellence in many more gourmet products. Crafts and soil products, from the “terroirs” as we call it in French, are very much appreciated in France and outside our country.

In addition, France is the global leader in the food industry for the agro-industrial ingredients and for countless semi-finishedandfinishedproductswhich are far from the image of inaccessible luxury gourmet products: special flour, yeast, bakery, pastry, egg products, aromatic and texture ingredients, etc.

France has developed an expertise-oriented production of high quality food at the best price for everyone. Not to mention dairy products and its derivatives in all forms possible.

Basedonstatisticalfiguresprovidedby the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) in 2011, France rankedasthefirsttouristdestinationin the world. What are the most visited places for the arts, architecture, fashion, food and wine, quaint village homestays, seaside holidays. Where else would you recommend?

Asyousaid,Franceremainsthefirsttourist destination in the world. France offers a lot, with its 37 sites inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List and features cities of high cultural interest. Parisisofcoursethefirstplacetovisit,having the world largest and renowned museums, including the Louvre, which is the most visited art museum, but also the Musée d’Orsay, with its beautiful architecture, the museum of fashion, and so many more places. But besides Paris, I would recommend to go further and explore France in its entirety. The beautiful city of Toulouse, or Strasbourg, or Bordeaux

are worth to visit. The city of Lyon, in the southeast, is the French and world capital of gastronomy. I am sure the Malaysians would extremely appreciate this unique city. The French Riviera in south-eastern France, is the second leading tourist destination in the country after the Parisian region: don’t miss it!

For those who love it, the wine routes have also to be explored. Bordeaux wines are very famous and present in Malaysia, but there are many other regions of France with exceptional wines to discover: for example, the wines of Burgundy, Alsace, Loire Valley, and Provence, which are usually less known by the Malaysians.

French cuisine is renowned for being oneofthefinestintheworld.Canyou briefly share with us what are French national dishes? What are the traditional dishes usually served during Christmas?

Beyondtheimageofexceptionalfinedining, generally seen as expensive and unaffordable, France is more especially the country of friendly, affordable and easy to access gastronomy. We enjoy simple cooking of friendship, “terroirs” and traditions from the diverse regions of the metropolitan and overseas France. Food is what brings us even closer to Malaysians: we have in common the passion for simple and quality food.

France is known to host several major tennis tournaments a year. Aside from Tennis, what other famous sports events does France host yearly?

France’s most popular sport event organized every year, for three weeks in July, is the Tour de France, the most important cycling race in the world, created in 1903. The French are also fond of the Rugby Six Nations Tournament, launched in 1883. As for motor sport, Formula One Grand Prix has its roots in France where the firstautomobileracingwasorganizedin 1894. The last French Formula One Grand Prix was held in 2008, but we are working now to revive the most historic of all Grands Prix. This competition could take place in 2013 or 2014 with a new circuit.

For Connoisseurs26

TRAVEL

Renowned for its high standard of attentive service, Air France’s

Business Class is constantly evolving to offer its customers the finest experience up in the air derived from the art of French living. From its cabin amenities to its exquisite meal service, Air France is continuing its efforts to provide ever more refined service, combining modernity and comfort as connoisseur of the art of travel.

With Air France, your French experience begins the moment you step on the plane. With Business Class seats on flights to more than 25 destinations worldwide, passengers will relish its exquisite in-flight meals designed by the world’s greatest chefs and offering more contemporary menus, dining ware and comfort kits, all regularly renewed.

Business Class customers will be delighted to enjoy an exceptional culinary experience by France’s leading airline caterer, Servair, with menus on long-haul flights from Paris featuring the signature dishes of leading French chefs that incorporate the perfect blend of flavours, freshness and discovery. Menus are renewed every 10 days to satiate the palate of frequent travelers. In addition, each dish is accompanied by a selection of two red wines, a white wine and champagne, selected by Olivier Poussier, allowing customers a taste of French wine heritage.

An impressive 90% of Air France customers have also complemented the airline’s longer, wider, and more

spacious seats that comes with additional legroom and integration of storage compartments making it one of the most spacious and comfortable seats on the market. Apart from a good rest, the 5 kilogram lighter seats also help lower CO2 emissions.

Each Business Class seat is equipped with a wide choice of on-demand entertainment systems with up to 600 hours of programming: from 85 to 100 films and a jukebox of 200 to 300 CDs, 25 radio stations and 20 interactive games. With baggage allowance three times that of Voyageur class, Business Class customers can check up to two 32-kg bags free, for a total of 64 kg (and up to three bags for Flying Blue Silver, Gold or Platinum members or holders of SkyTeam Elite or Elite Plus cards) with priority handling at the arrival airport. Two carry-on bags, weighing up to 18 kg, plus an accessory also are allowed.

Air France customers can be well assured that they will be well taken care of in over 500 Business lounges around the world, including 50 Air France lounges where they can enjoy a wide selection of reading materials, beverages and food, free internet access, showers or simply rest in one of their many lounge chairs. The 3000 square metre lounge at

Terminal 2E satellite boarding area at Paris-Charles de Gaulle in particular provides spacious shower facilities, clothes steaming, breakfast, a work area equipped with computers, international newspapers and magazines, and a service for booking transportation to Paris. Everything is done to put the customer in the best condition to start the work day. Business Class customers can also enjoy free facials and herbal massage courtesy of Clarins.

Business Class travelers will earn the equivalent of 125% to 175% of the distance converted into miles compared to 25% to 100% in the Economy Cabin and 100% to 125% in the Premium Economy cabin. They will also have faster access to Flying Blue bonus awards and the benefits offered to Flying Blue Silver, Gold and Platinum cardholders such as waiting list priority, priority boarding and free additional baggage allowances.

From booking to luggage delivery, Air France is a symbol of assurance for the restless traveler be it for business or pleasure. Air France operates more than 1,500 flights per day. Air France and KLM complement each other’s networks in offering flights to 254 destinations in 124 countries.

writer | Szetoo Weiwenphotography | Courtesy of AirFrance

THE ART OF FRENCHLIVING UP IN THE AIR

For Connoisseurs28

REINVENTING THE BRITISH POP

CULTURE ICON

29

DRIVE

Few cars are as instantly recognizable as the revolutionary Mini. In the iconic 60s era which brought us the Beatles and the hippie movement, the Mini was born and has since become symbolic and synonymous with British pop culture. The personality of the Mini captured the hearts and minds the world over that even Mary Quant, the creator of the ever chic mini-skirt, named her creation in its honor. Driven by celebrities and models of its era, the Mini has been utilized as an indirect reference to contemporary cool in filmandTV,mostnotablyinthemovieThe Italian Job, as well as the primary go-to vehicle of classic comic Rowan Atkinson in his role as Mr. Bean.

Despite its apparent success among the wealthy and influential, the Mini was never intended to be an iconic car. The 1956 Suez Crisis created an incessantneedformorefuelefficientcars in the UK and other parts of Europe due to the fuel rationing caused by the closure of the Suez Canal, at that time an important conduit for the shipment of oil. Microcars (or 'bubble cars')madeabriefintroductiontofulfillthis need but was oftentimes shunned due to its limitations in seating and storage as well as its predominantly odd three-wheeled design.

Leonard Lord, the head of British Motors Corporation (BMC) at that time, vowed to build a proper 'miniature car' and set out to build a car smaller than their best selling car: the Morris

Minor. He laid down some basic yet specificrequirementsforthisnewcar: it had to use an existing engine tokeepthepricelowandithadtofitwithin a 3.0m x 1.2m x 1.2m box while stillprovidingsufficientspacefor4average sized adults with luggage. Essentially, he wanted a spacious car in a small package. This colossal task was undertaken by Sir Alex Issigonis (1906 - 1988), by then already a world renowned engineer for his work on the Morris Minor, and his barebones team of 8 which built the original prototype in 1957, affectionally named 'The Orange Box' due to its color.

The end result: a car that was 22% lighter than the Morris Minor that fitthediminutivesizerequirementswhile still dedicating 80% of its floor space to its passengers and luggage, something unheard of at that time. Space economy came from the reduced engine cabin where they mounted the same engine from the Morris Minor into a space 30% of the original by simply turning the engine sideways and placing the 4-speed transmission beneath the engine at the sump, a simple yet innovative concept in automotive design at that time. In order to further reduce the overall structure, they employed a front wheel drive making the Mini also the world's firstmassproducedfrontwheel drive car.

The car was originally sold under BMC’s Austin and Morris brands. However, the name Mini didn’t make a proper appearance till 1961 when BMC decided to allow the Mini to have its own marque. Initially, not many

wanted to be in the funny little car and the Mini only really came into its own when noticed by a friend of Issigonis, John Cooper, the owner of the Cooper Car Company that designed and built Formula One and rally cars. He saw the potential of the Mini, with its lightweight frame, low centre of gravity and wide track, to be a competition car and thus worked together with Issigonis to create the Mini Cooper that debuted in 1961.

His version almost doubled the horsepower of the standard Mini engine and featured a host of improvements including a racing-tuned engine, twin SU carburetors, a closer-ratio gearbox and front disc brakes, uncommon in small cars of that era. A more powerful version, the Mini Cooper S, was developed alongside the original and introduced 2 years later in 1963 which featured a slightly more powerful engine, nitrided steel crankshaft, strengthened bottom end forfurtherfinetuningandlargerservo-assisted disc brakes. More powerful variations were made for circuit racing which achieved great success which eventually led to their entry into the Monte Carlo Rally, one of the toughest races in the world competing alongside established big guns in racing like Mercedes and Saab. Not only did the Mini perform remarkably well against all odds, it won the Monte Carlo Rally 3 times in 1964, 1965 and 1967, cementing itself in history as one of the greatest giant-killing success stories in the history of the sport. In a very short period of time subsequent to that, everybody wanted to own a Mini.

writer | Mandy Leongedited by | George Wongphotography | Courtesy of smallcarBIGCITY

phot

ogra

pher

| J

aspe

r Yon

g

An old banged-up Mini waiting to be restored. The same Mini fully restored in all its glory. The iconic classic emblem of the Mini.

For Connoisseurs30

DRIVE

classic version but it does retain most of its personality, visual aesthetic and engineering philosophies that despite its apparent changes, its still recognizable as a Mini. Having driven both the classic and the current variations, both offer a completely different driving experience but yet still embodied a great element of fun and glee just being behind the drivers seat. Which is perhaps why the Minis have been described as a class-less vehicle, in that you could be anyone from any level of society and still love all variations of a Mini equally as much which is unique even among luxury cars.

Today, the BMW MINI is built in one of the world's most state-of-the-art facilities, utilizing advanced robotics to potentially roll out completely built MINIs from the production line every 68 seconds. No two MINIs are exactly alike as they're built-to-order based oncustomerspecificationsandarestill built in Oxford in England, thus retaining a lot of its 'British-ness' despite being owned by a foreign car manufacturer. With an overall reinvention in terms of performance, handling, and premium interior finish,theBMWMINIshaveearnednumerous accolades worldwide becoming a distinguished hallmark in Miniculturethatcontinuestodefinethe compact car segment today.

A classic Mini can possibly be restored in a matter of months but it can also be extremely time consuming depending on its condition. 3 years would be the amount of time he would need to restore a Mini from just the chassis of the car as he would need to source for an original Mini engine, seats, accessories and other necessaries from Japan (and beyond) forreassembly.Afifitakesprideinhisrestorations and only uses original parts for his work rather than cheaper third party alternatives in existence guaranteeing an authentic ride upon completion.

The classic Minis started out as a costefficientcommutingsolution,and50 years down the road it still has a strong claim to that mantle despite the numerous options available in the market. For a mere RM20,000, you can be a proud owner of a fully restoredvintageclassicMini,certifiedfor functional road use by the local council. The fuel economy is still welcome in this age of rising fuel cost and the road tax and car insurance is almost negligible making this perhaps the most affordable collectors item in a vintage car collector's garage. However, if you're perhaps more interested in something current, the BMW MINI will certainly whet your appetite.

The BMW MINI is perhaps not technically the same car as the

The classic Minis remained in production in Europe throughout the 70s till the 90s. By the

mid 80s, more than 5 million Minis have been produced worldwide but was slowly beginning to lose mainstream appeal. As a result of a series of mergers, nationalization and subsequently re-privatization that struck BMC, the Mini brand was eventually acquired by the Germany luxury car manufacturer BMW, as part of their purchase of the Rover Group in 1994 from British Aerospace (BAe). Despite selling off most of the companies under the Rover Group and discontinuing the Mini line in 2000, BMW retained the rights to build the next Mini which was launched in 2001, renamed as the BMW MINI. Models prior to the BMW MINI has come to be known as classic Minis and are still well loved today.

Tofindoutmoreaboutthisinherentpassion in classic Minis here in Malaysia,wepaidavisittoAfifi,alocal classic Mini restorer who is based in Sg. Buloh. Having purchased and restored classic Minis since his childhood alongside his father and brother,Afifiistheembodimentofatrue blue classic Mini enthusiast. To fuel the demand of these classics, AfifiusuallyimportstheclassicMinis(either in pieces or partially completed units) from Japan, one of the last few countries to be able to produce the classic Minis before the takeover..

The BMW MINI, evolved while still maintaining the original's dynamic personality.

For Connoisseurs32

THE RIGHT TO HUMANITY writer | Melissa Diener

edited by | George Wongphotography | Courtesy of Melissa Diener

33

PERSPECTIVE

I’ve never really given it much thought, human rights I mean. When you grow up in a 'safe haven' like the small rural village in northeast Switzerland where I’m from, human rights, or even more so the absence of it, are a somewhat abstract concept.

You’ll probably agree with me that when we think about it, few things in life are essentially the way they appear tobeatafirstglance.Mypersonal'safe haven' turned into hell at age 14 when I lost my mother to cancer after her 6 year long battle against the disease. After that, life never went back to what used to be normal. I have since looked at the world from a very different angle where everyday could potentially be your last day to make a difference in this world.

I must admit, it can be challenging in today’s fast paced world to fully comprehend socio-political problems andwhat’smoreimportant,tofindplausible solutions for these problems. Some people exclude themselves from

the process of creating positive change because they feel that they have to change the world. The good news is you don’t have to change the whole world in order to make a difference. The key is to identify an issue which is important to you and then decide how you can provide solutions for improvements. I, for one, have chosen to become a human rights activist because I care about the wellbeing of people.

Ifirststartedgettinginvolvedinhuman rights activism when I moved to New Zealand just over three years ago. It was here, in a country likely to be overseen or forgotten on the international radar, have I learned to understand and appreciate the role of human rights.

I’ve crossed paths with some truly inspiring individuals here in New Zealand, of whom some have become close friends. Even though these individuals couldn’t be more different in their nature, upbringing,

and cultural & religious background, they’ve all had one thing in common: they've been victims of human rights violations. Some of them were born in slums, others had parents and family members killed in armed conflicts. Some of them were deprived of their ancestral land with no choice but to become refugees while others were victims of discrimination because of their skin color, race, or religion.

I knew that one of the most effective waystofightthisinjusticewastoadvocate for human rights in order to ensure that every person enjoys the protection of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights¹. This is why I started volunteering for the world’s largest human rights organization Amnesty International². I’ve organized fundraising events, participated in vigils and campaigns, signed petitions, sent letters to prisoners of conscience, and currently doing an internship with Amnesty International Aotearoa, New Zealand.

¹ www.un.org/en/documents/udhr ² www.amnesty.org

For Connoisseurs34

PERSPECTIVECampaigning for human rights can be exhausting sometimes but what you have to bear in mind is that you’re not alone in your struggle. You’re part of a global movement, a 'snowball effect', that will grow bigger & bigger and eventually you will manage to get that prisoner of conscience released. You will give your voice to those who can’t speak freely until there are enough voices to silence those who abuse human rights. You will add your signature to petitions until there are enough signatures for governments to realize that the power of the people has become greater than the people in power.

We’ve become witnesses of such a 'snowball effect' on the 2nd of April 2013 when member states of the UnitedNationsfinallypassedanArmsTrade Treaty (ATT) which will forbid arms transfers if they contribute to genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes. Amnesty International, amongst a list of other organizations, has been campaigning for this long overdue treaty for over 20 years. Ironically, up until recently, even the global trade of bananas has had tighter regulations than the global trade of arms.

The ATT is probably the best and most recent example which highlights the power of human rights activism because sadly, it wasn’t the pressure of governments which led to the establishment of the ATT. All these years, governments have been relatively passive even though human rights activists and reputable international organizations have repeatedly urged them to stand up for an effective ATT. If it wasn’t for the tireless efforts of motivated activists aroundtheworld,wemostdefinitelywouldn’t have an ATT now and arms would keep on being misused for atrocious killings.

Societies around the globe have undergonesuchsignificantparadigmshifts in recent years that government bodies, media and global organizations (such as the United Nations) are no longer the watchdogs. We, the people, are the ones who are watching them. And we’re watching very closely.

When I think about it, the thing that keeps giving me faith in humanity is the feeling I get from helping others. Sometimes you just have to focus on the 'small picture' when the big picture becomes too blurred to see or envision.

This is the beauty of helping others. It’s a simple thing which really doesn’t even have to cost us much time, money or effort to have a positive impact on someone else’s life. Anyone can do it and everyone should do it. You don't want to look back one day with regret because you chose not to make a difference when you knew you could.

So whatever it is that you believe in, you have to take action and you have to do it now.

35

HOME & LIVING

COOL POOLSat KLANG VALLEY writer | Mandy Leongphotography | Courtesy of representative venues

These days, women are quickly shedding their leggings and men, their ties faster than you can scream ‘icecream’asthiscontemptuoustropical summer heat wave continues to envelope the city. So what can be done to cool down in this unforgiving weather you ask? Well, hitting the pool

tops our list, and quite frankly, nothing comes close to this slice of heaven in this concrete oven we call the Klang Valley.

Aside from cooling off, swimming encouragesweightlosswhilefirmingand strengthening muscles, improving

flexibility, breathing and heart rate. On a social aspect, it’s a good energy drainer for your active children and a great way to chill out with friends. We give you a peek at all the hottest pools in the Klang Valley, with something for everyone.

Everybody loves pools with water slides as it makes life more fun & exciting

Swimming at hotel pools with a beautiful skyline of the city makes life feel more blissful & luxurious

Partying with a pool in view is the best way to go

Sunway Lagoon Water Themepark For more information, please contact

(603) 5625 8000

Desa Water Park For more information, please contact

(603) 7118 8338

Gold Coast Morib Water Themepark For more information, please contact

(603) 3198 1028

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Kuala LumpurFor more information, please contact

(603) 2380 8888

The Ascott Residency Kuala LumpurFor more information, please contact

(603) 2380 8888

GTower Kuala Lumpur For more information, please contact

(603) 2168 1919

SkyBar, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur For reservations, please contact (603) 2332 9888

LunaChilloutBar,PacificRegencyHotel Suites For reservations, please contact (603) 2332 7777

The Pool, Kuala Lumpur For reservations, please contact (6017) 998 5577

For Connoisseurs36

HOME & LIVING

PARENTING A THIRD CULTURE CHILD

ERICA KNECHT

37

HOME & LIVING

Erica Knecht, a Canadian expatriate currently residing in Jakarta, Indonesia, is no amateur to globe-trotting. At theageof16,shegotherfirsttasteof expatriate living as an exchange student in France. A major turning point in her life came during a ski trip in the Canadian Rockies, where she set eyes upon the man that would bring her on a journey of a lifetime around the world, the man that she now calls her husband.

Culture wise, the love story between a Swiss and Canadian might not seem a far-fetched idea, given how there are even more exotic matches between the vastly different cultures of the world. All waswellforEricaatthefirstfewyearsof her marriage, as she trekked across the globe where her husband’s career leads them. All was very well indeed – until they found out that Erica was expecting a baby – in Japan!

Already baffled by her Swiss husband’s conviction that vinegar-soaked socks will cure a cold, Erica was apprehensive about the prospects of embracing motherhood in a foreign culture. Her heart craved for a “Canadian” pregnancy, where mothers are given

complete control over birth plans and parenting skills. Ask any culture of Asian descent, be it Chinese or Japanese, and you are bound to come across a stream of do’s and don’ts for expecting moms – to top it all off, each family had different variations when it comes to such unspoken rules! Initially, Erica was highly reluctant to adhere to Japanese pregnancy customs. After curbing this mental obstacle, everything eventually fell into place. Notlongafter,Stella,the‘thirdculture’baby was born, a beautiful girl with tumbling curly locks.

writer | Anya Tanphotographer | Erica Knecht

It is often said that no woman can be fully prepared for motherhood, and this is especially so for Erica. After embracing the formality and rigidity associated with Japanese culture, she thought everything in her life was finallyincontrol–untilherhusband’sjob brought the family to Jakarta, Indonesia, six months after Stella was born. Fazed but unbeaten by the prospects of picking up life yet again in another culture, Erica now rechanneled her efforts into raising her third culture child in the laidback setting of Indonesian lifestyle.

Erica Knecht, the globe-trekking mother with Stella, her Swiss-Canadian child born in Japan, and currently living in Indonesia.

For Connoisseurs38

HOME & LIVING

“The most important lesson I’ve learnt as an expatriate parent is that there are as many ways to parent a child as there are children to be parented. There is incredible variance in parenting practices across cultures, and no country can claim their parenting normsare‘right’”.WhileEricaprefersher native modes of child rearing, still she has picked up her host culture practices along the way, carrying Stella in a batik selendang and letting her eat noodles and bakso, a native Indonesian dish for breakfast.

Relearning another culture from scratch taught Erica to become more self-reliant, a crucial skill that mothers-on-the-go will need. “The expat experience overall, has made meinfinitelymoreindependentandself-reliant, because when you land in a new country every three years, you have to learn to trust yourself and to be your own best friend,” said Erica. No matter how receptive Erica is to a new culture, still the incongruence baffles her. “Never let your children get exposed to the rain, she will catch a cold,” advised concerned Indonesian mothers as they watched Stella frolicking in the rain. Erica brushed

off the admonishment with a smile, knowing full well that germs are the cause of colds, or so she thought. Imagine her disbelief when Stella immediately caught a cold after that play session in the rain.

The life of an expatriate is no simple feat, what more with a child by your side. When asked whether Erica would choose this life path again, “Oh, I’d live this life a million times over”. Ultimately, Erica hopes that this unique lifestyle will teach Stella life lessons that no other child can draw level with – the ability to adapt, be flexible and to be culturally aware. Expatriate parents also need to recognize that their child’s experiences of growing up will be vastly different than their own, and it is essential not to disparage the environmental culture in front of the child. Children such as Stella are bound to internalize some of the features of the host culture, and to disrespect such cultural aspects disrespects the child. “I make it a point of showing her that despite all our cultural, ethnic, and economic differences, people are all people, we’re all equal, and we’re all worthy”.

Born to parents of different cultures, Stella's childhood and upbringing is one full of rich cultural diversity.

Exclusively at Starhill Gallery, S3 Pamper Floor, 181 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.Tel : +603-2710 3388 Fax : +603-2710 3807 Email : [email protected]

Unit G-12, Bangunan Perdagangan D6, No. 801 Jalan Sentul, 51000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.Tel / Fax : 018-716 6768

* ope

ratio

n va

lid o

n or

ders

on

the c

ompl

ete T

ogo

rang

e in

all m

ater

ials

avai

labl

e.RC

S Bo

urg-

en-B

ress

e 545

920

076

.

“WE CUT IT OFF.. .30% DISCOUNT ON TOGO”

To celebrate the Togo 40th Anniversary, enjoy a 30% discount on the Togo range from the 1st of April to the 30th of June. *

www.ligne-roset.com

YTL Togo Connoisseurs[2].indd 1 08/04/2013 10:28

For Connoisseurs40

TIMELESS THROUGH DESIGNwriter | Anya Tanphotography | Courtesy of Togo

41

HOME & LIVINGThey say with age comes wisdom, and wisdom is inevitably accompanied by the unpleasant testimonials of time such as wrinkles and rheumatic joints. Such is the case not only for humans but also furniture in our household. Leathers and surfaces wrinkle and age, while joints go creaky with time. Yet there are certain creations in life that are so eternally appealing that they overcome the ravages of time. Age does not batter the existence of

such creations, but rather legitimize its position as an evergreen piece of art. And art, they say, knows no boundaries of time as it crystallizes the essence of that one very special moment in life.

This 2013, Ligne Roset celebrates the 40th birthday of the evergreen Togo, designed by Michael Ducaroy on the same year as the launch of the Ligne Roset brand. Since its birth into the Ligne Roset family, it has always been produced in the factories in Briord, a

small village in the Bugey region which nestles in the foothills of the Jura Mountains. Seasons change; people come and go, but still Togo remains an everlasting favourite in the Ligne Roset lineup.

One simple design, manufactured from one same origin for forty glorious years. What is it behind this peculiar little couch that has won the hearts of many for over four decades and still showing no signs of wavering popularity?

For Connoisseurs42

Behind the wrinkly demeanour that has become characteristic of the Togo is a long history dating back to its birth year in1973.TheTogowasfirstpresentedat the Salon des Arts ménagers at the Palais de la Défense, Paris. Critics from both the professional and public sphere alike were apprehensive of Ducaroy’s creation, reminiscent of a Shar-Pei dog. Yet, this was what piqued the hearts of the organizers of the fair. Immensely impressed with Michael Ducaroy’s brainchild, he walked away with the René-Gabriel prize, which recognized “innovative and democratic furniture”. To the organizers, the Togo struck the perfect balance between price and quality.

Who exactly was the mysterious man who walked away with such a prestigious prize with the design of the Togo? Born in Lyon on 4th November 1925, French designer Michel Ducaroy was raised in a family of designers and makers of contemporary furniture who were commissioned by the Chaleyssin factory which most notably supplied furniture for the liner SS Normandie.

Michel Ducaroy ventured into the family business before studying in the faculty of sculpture at the École Supérieure Nationale des Beaux Arts de Lyon. His encounter with Jean Roset, founder of the Ligne Roset brand was a monumental moment both for Ducaroy and the brand. Founded by Antoine Roset in 1860 between Lyon and Geneva for the purpose of manufacturing parasol handles and walking sticks in turned beech, Ligne Roset initially started out as a furniture maker before turning to the contract market. Since then the company’s furniture has graced civil hospitals, bedroom furniture for halls of residence and various other civil buildings.

It was nearly a decade after the creative explosion in 1968 that he designed the now iconic Togo. Who would have thought a range of all-foam seating with covers generously quilted with polyester would make history?

Fashion is seasonal and changes every cycle, but the Togo has proven to be eternally fashionable for the past

forty years, with its amazing ability to be compatible with whatever style comes in its way. Place it in a classic household setting, spruce it up in mellow tones and there you have a sofa that blends elegantly into your home. Want understated elegance? Play around with monotones and you’ll immediately strike chords with the minimalist feel. If you prefer a touch of ethnic feel to resonate with your cultural background, dress up the Togo in ethnic tones and immediately your inner personality immediately shines through.

A creation of such distinctive personality must have been inspired by something special. But when asked of the inspiration behind Togo, Ducaroy’s unexpected answer was this: “A tube of toothpaste folded back on itself like a stovepipe and closed at both ends,” Truly, his capability to turn the mundane into extraordinary has rightfully earned his creation its current cult status.

Furniture with no hard spots leaves no hard feelings as the Togo dutiful capability serves two generations of family in the household. Uncompromising on safety and comfort, Ligne Roset was inspired to reach out to customers who needed Togo the most – children. By reducing the size of the original into a mini version, the third generation of the family now have a new companion with unsurpassed comfort, safety, and most of all, fun – for life.

With the emergence of Facebook fan pages worshipping Togo, special editions and introduction of Lyonese velvet to commemorate its origins, the little squished toothpaste tube of a couch shows no signs of stopping and we foresee it charging towards a century of undying fame.

If you are looking for the secret of immortality, look no further because as the Togo story goes, it only takes a bit of creativity and observation of squished toiletries; perhaps a dash of luck, to potentially come up with something that might turn out to be the next big thing in your lifetime.

43

HOME & LIVING

HEART OF THE HOUSEHOLD writer | Anya Tan

The humble act of sitting down and watching television is surprisingly packedwithanarrayofbenefitsin the most unexpected ways. In a report by the BBC, watching television actually has the capability to bring families together. This is contrary to popular belief, where television has been associated with stopping-short conversation and inhibiting

communication among family members. Today’s increasingly demanding lifestyles have prompted the simplest pleasures such as watching TV with the family into becoming a necessary habitual practice, drawing parents and children together in the comfort of the household with the shared point of interest and stimulation of discussion.

For Connoisseurs44

James Poniewozik, TV critic of TIMES magazine has highlighted

the particular trend of families getting together to watch reality TVs, directly contributing to the bonding between members. Thanks to TV on-demand, parental control options and digital recording, the prospects for family to bond over favourites like Top Chef and Survivor anytime, anywhere so as long as the television remains at the centre of the household.

Apart from having full control over what you watch through the latest on-demand technology, the humble TV has moved a long way from relying solely on a set top box transmitting only TV signals into evolving into a full-fledged multimedia powerhouse. Hook

the TV up with your digital camera, and larger than life images of your family photos materializes before your eyes, a vivid experience almost comparable to having the actual person beside you; certainTVscanalsobeconfiguredtobe used as an output of your computer screen. Think your average computer – except 5 times larger and crisper images by magnitude of what your computer screen can achieve. Think your favourite videos in full glory of the television at home, at the touch of your fingertipsandalwaysatyourwill.

Technological advances also contributed to the progression of the household television into more than just entertainment. Personalities such as the philanthropic media

mogul, Oprah Winfrey have also leveraged on the boundless outreach of television to help out people in need. In a programme under the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) called‘TroubleNextDoor’,theseriesrevolves around helping families in crisis by implementing community-based methods to get neighbours to reach out and help the victim. The series is aimed at engaging the closest community within reach – our neighbours, and to harness the power of mutual relationship to create positive change in each other’s lives. Though a relatively simple concept, it is the outreach of TV that has allowed the idea to flourish and hopefully make an impact.

45

HOME & LIVING

The outreach of television has proven itself to not only touch the

members of the household but also humanity in general. How many of us cheered in pride as our countrymen triumph in the Olympics? Modern TV technology, with sophisticated camera techniques that can capture acute detail in slow motion, displays the human anatomy in its full glory – well-trained muscles hard at work, the sweat of hard work trickling down the muscular body of athletes. We admire the sheer willpower of these athletes – their blood, sweat and tears a motivation for all of us to cheer on as a nation, in pursuit of conquering the sports arena as champions.

How many of us are captivated by raw human emotion captured through the television screen, such as the successful rescues of the “Los 33”fromthehigh-profileChileanmining disaster in year 2010? The

world watched in bated breath as the rescuers pulled 33 men out from the devastated San Jose copper mine. With all odds against them, survival was an impossible feat. When the world received news over TV broadcasts of their miracle rescue, everyone in the world cheered. For that glorious moment in time, it was as though humanity were united as one.

It is very likely that most of us are so attuned to getting to know the external world via our household TV that you don’t realize its influence. Ever caught yourself gushing about the colourful Brazilian Carnivale while discussing travel plans with your friends? We have never experienced it – but TV brought us the visual aspect of the experience and entices us to experience it for real. Ever caught yourself watching TV to experience New Year celebrations from another part of the globe – all via TV, without the need to leave your

couch or your family? As the clock chimes 12 midnight, the world bursts into Happy New Year greetings and hugs as all of us anticipate the great New Year ahead, all in front of the television screen.

If the various household appliances at home serve as the periphery that keeps the home functional, then the television can be likened to the heart of the living room. It is an absolute must to dedicate time and utmost attention when it comes to choosing the epicentre device of the house. One brand worthy of such investment is Metz TV, a German developer and manufacturer of high end television for over 70 years. With quality that is evidentdowntothefinestdetailandperfectly thought-out innovations, the brands develop high-quality products which are made for the future.

For Connoisseurs46

HOME & LIVING

The Metz TV product range is a virtuoso of perfection, providing

a range of television catered to every whim. Every individual is different – but there is always a Metz out there to pique your fancy. Choose your favourite TV by the aspects that are important for you: Light, multi-functions and stylish design. Every Metz LCD TV offers outstanding sound and picture quality, various integrated tuners and a great diversity of connecting capabilities. A perfect choice for the heart of the living room. Treat yourself to top-class TV quality made in Germany – for the time you value most.

Visit www.metz.de for information on Metz TV.

For Connoisseurs48

PHILIPPE STARCK

phot

ogra

pher

| J

ean-

Bapt

iste

Mon

dino

writer | George Wongphotography | Courtesy of Hansgrohe

Philippe Patrick Starck, French product designer

SET ON SAVING THE WORLD

49

DESIGN

Enigmatic, thought-provoking, environmentalist, non-conformist

- there are perhaps too many words that can describe the revolutionary Philippe Patrick Starck, the contemporary French designer of the modern generation. Born in 1949 to an aeronautic engineer, whom some might consider to be his early inspiration, very little has been written about his adolescent days which suggest that, unlike his other renowned contemporaries, his genius was not derived from a colorful past. Rather, he once indicated that his creativity began by being horribly bored in his youth which was a catalyst for imagination. Proclaimed by some quarters as an extrovert, he goes on to describe his creative process as simply being alone with a blank piece of paper or a computer in the middle of nowhere.

His perspective on the human evolution (affectionally referring tohumansas‘super-monkeys’or‘mutants’)andhowhebelievesthat “no one has to be a genius, but everybody has to participate” juxtaposes him from his peers. Contrast to mainstream designers who strive to deliver unique masterpieces or bespoke designs at outlandish prices, he invented the concept of democratic design which equates to raising quality, cutting prices, and trying to give it to everybody. A clear embodiment of this can be seen in his 2002 range for Target which had 16 different everyday household items that include toothbrushes, magazine racks, staplers, etc all reinvented with elegant

form and enhanced practical function. Oftentimes referring to his 1989 toothbrush as his call to fame, he has oncesaidthatthefinestsymptomofhuman intelligence is humor and that design without humor is not human.

For one held in such high esteem in the world of design, he has mentioned on numerous occasions that his interest was never in design but rather in politics and about helping those around him, to take what he considers ashis‘uselessjob’andgiveitmeaningto serve the human race. This, to him, is an advantage, unbound by the general norms and perceptions of society. His penchant for reinvention has seen him deliver more than 10,000 designs in his name throughout his 30 odd years in the industry, an incredible achievement for a designer.

Philippe Starck oftentimes collaborates with brands that share a similar philosophy for humanism and innovation. One relationship that has been repeated with great success since 1994 is with Hansgrohe. Together,theyredefinedthebathroomasa‘Salond’eau’:awaterroomwithnone of the usual tiles and Philippe Starck has designed four collections for Axor, Hansgrohe’s designer brand, called Axor Starck. At the heart of this is the Axor Starck ShowerCollection,

a modular design that is used to transform the shower into a tailor-made spa.

His design reinvents the shower heads, the thermostat/vales, shelves, lighting, and speakers into 12cm x 12cm metallic modules which can be flexibly combined to create an intelligent showersystemthatfitsspecificallyto your needs. The modular shower heads, in particular, can be placed surrounding the user at any location or frequency providing a truly personal experience. The collection also offers the Axor Starck Showerheaven, a larger shower head for overhead use with 3 different jet types allowing you complete control over water usage completing the overall experience for the perfect shower.

The Axor Starck collection is part of Philippe Starck’s vision of ecology preservation. His belief in green initiatives began long before it became fashionable and has driven his design in every aspect of its development. His extensive work has made great design so accessible that its now possible to own a little bit of Starck in everything, even in your shower. Such is the extent of his influence, changing the world in the only way he knows how, by serving humanity through design.

For Connoisseurs50

IN SYMPATHY WITH NATUREIN NATURE, AS IT IS WITH ART, WE CANNOT BE TOLD WHAT TO THINK.

This is how architecture speaks to us. Architecture is the most

powerfulofthefineartsasitaffectshow we see life on a daily basis. We live and work in buildings, spending most of our lives in them. If these buildings‘talk’toustheycanstimulate individual thought, lift us, encourageustolook,see,findandunderstand - put us in touch with ourselves. This concept is relevant to all built forms – from low-cost housingtograndpalaces.Butfirst,the architect must have something to say, just as the poet, painter or sculptor must convey through their art.

For me, the essence of architecture is not about aesthetics; it is about space and how we, as individuals react and relate to space. Aesthetics suggests a visual experience only, while a spatial experience has the potential to stimulate all our senses and encourage individual thought. Likeallofthefinearts,theessenceof architecture is communication. To methisisfundamental.Ifothersfindmeaninginanartists’creation,findthat it stimulates them into their own thought, not the artists thought, then, Ibelievewehavedefined‘art’.

writer | John Bulcockedited by | Anya Tan

photographer | Gary Dublanko

The architects’ experience is in Nature. What he sees, touches, hears, tastes, smells, he questions and explores to find reason and meaning in that experience.

Therefore understanding in that experience. Therefore understanding in his life.

He communicates to himself to see and understand his reality. This communication, this expression, is his art.

This expression is him, his soul, his experience. It is truth, and because it is truth it will stimulate others into their own experience.

This is an architect’s life.

51

DESIGN

Architecture should encourage exploration – the more we look the morewefind.Allaspectsofthebuilding must evolve from a clear concept. If buildings have no mind and soul behind them, they become an economic activity only and can be harmful to our psychological well-being. The following quotation from the 19th century French architect Viollet-le-Duc clearly states, everything must have meaning and nothing should be superfluous. I relate this to architecture. Much like how every living being has a place in this world; architectureisasignificantartformthat is all-encompassing in life.

John embraces the inextricable relationship between architecture Nature and lets this define his work. Green architecture is not merely a guiding principle but should be viewed as way of life. To attain sustainability, John follows three main pillars:

PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL BEING / STIMULATION OF PEOPLE

• Architecturemustcommunicateto us through Space at an individual level – stimulate us into our own experience

• MaximumcontactwithNature–in all forms – touching our senses

PHYSICAL WELL BEING / COMFORT OF PEOPLE

• Thermal / Lighting / Acoustic / Visual

• Safety and Security

REDUCED IMPACT ON NATURE• Reduced energy consumption• Minimal disturbance to landscape• Choice of building materials

‘Spaces in which light and air are more important than finishes encourage the development of profounder relations between people’

Tadao Ando

The lilies of the field,the leaves of trees, the insects, have style,because they grow, develop and exist according to essentially logical laws.We can spare nothing from a flower, because, in its organization, every part has its function and is formed to carry out that function in the most beautiful manner.

Viollet-le-Duc (1814 – 1879)

phot

ogra

pher

| G

ary

Dub

lank

o

phot

ogra

pher

| N

ikko

Nam

photographer | Nikko Nam

For Connoisseurs52

About John BulcockJohn Bulcock is a Partner in Design Unit Sdn Bhd. He has 27 years experience working as an Architect, Planner, Interior Designer and Landscape Designer on a wide variety of projects in Europe, Turkey, India and Southeast Asia. His experience encompasses Architecture as well as Architectural, Master, Urban and Sustainable Planning. Since 1994 he has been commissioned to carry out a variety of projects in Malaysia, India and Southeast Asia including Residential, Commercial & Institutional buildings and Sustainable Master Planning of Resorts and Townships. Low energy and sustainable design is central to his philosophy and approach to architecture and he has received a number of awards for his work.

TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF OUR CLIMATE:

REDUCE SOLAR RADIATION INTO THE HOUSE

Malaysia is a climate with unforgiving heat. By integrating solar radiation reduction such as using roof materials that prevent heat from penetrating the house and maximizing landscape for shading,homedwellerscanfindsolaceaway from the heat.

MAXIMISE CROSS VENTILATION

Cross natural ventilation creates thermally comfortable internal and external spaces thus reducing dependency on air-conditioning use and energy costs. The mosquito problem can be controlled with appropriate plant species and window / door screens.

CONTACT WITH NATURE

All our houses are designed for maximum contact with Nature in all its forms. As well as opening up internal spaces to the garden, our houses generally include external covered living areas and roof gardens. This blurs the distinction between house and garden to create psychologically stimulating living environments and encourages outdoor living in this tropical climate that stimulate all our senses – Green, Water, Breeze, Light, Touch, Smell, Sound.

LOW MAINTENANCE MATERIALS

It’s important to us that buildings are ‘honest’i.e.theyexplaintouswhatthey are, what they are made from and how they are put together. As such wefavour‘unfinished’and/ornaturalmaterials that that have their own integrity, such as off-form concrete, fair-face brick and so on – materials that express themselves for what they are, such as rattan or bamboo.

UNDERSTAND WHERE YOU ARE DESIGNING

We need to consider the characteristics of the site, which includes contours, trees, views, water bodies and shading. Then we use such naturalsiteconditionsforthebenefitofthe house.

RAINWATER HARVESTING

Rainwater is collected from all the house roofs and is allowed to cascade from the roof via a number of spouts down to pebble catchment sumps at ground level. From these sumps the water is channeled to an underground storage tank. This reservoir can, if required, supply all of the house water requirements including drinking, but generally this is used for landscape watering. This cascading rainwater from roof to ground creates a sensual experience to heighten awareness to this tropical climate, further informing about this place.

phot

ogra

pher

| L

in H

o

phot

ogra

pher

| L

in H

o

MAXIMISE DEFUSED NATURAL LIGHT

Natural light creates a psychologically stimulating living environment while reducingdependenceonartificiallighttherefore energy costs.

53

Shalini Ganendra Fine Art Gallery (SGFA) presents a long awaited exhibition by the famous Sir Roy Calne–TheArtofGiving.Heisfirstand foremost a famous surgeon in the international medical circle but in his free time, he paints and sculpts works of art. The exhibition will be at SGFA from 8th April – 8th July 2013.

Sir Roy Calne is currently 83 years old and is an award winning surgeon who pioneered organ transplantation and immunosuppressant cures. His accolades include the prestigious Lasker Award, Lister Medal, Ellison-Cliffe Medal and two nominations for the Nobel Prize. His gift of living techniques created medical history by allowing people suffering from fatal diseases to be cured and live longer.

Calne’s paintings and sculpture art pieces are inspired by many subjects – from wildlife to flowers from his garden to land/cityscapes, to works of transplantation from patients and to the surgical procedures. His paintings arevibrantandfigurativewhereashis bronze sculptures are life-like and portrays movement very well. These details draw from an expert understanding of form, anatomy, and inclinations.

He draws his inspiration from his patients by talking to and understanding them. His years of experience as a surgeon have given his works of art a deeper meaning, leaving a lasting impression on those who have viewed his art. By doing so, Calne learns the therapeutic value of art, both for himself and the patients, especially the extremely ill young children.

All of his works are a celebration and appreciation of life – The Art Of Giving.

SIR ROY CALNE

AN ARTIST WITH A SCALPEL

& BRUSHwriter | Mandy Leongphotography | Courtesy of SGFA

For more information, please contact Shalini Ganendra Fine Art @ Gallery ResidenceTel: (603) 7960 4740 [email protected]

For Connoisseurs54

ART SPACE

BRINGING MASTERPIECES TO THE MASSES

Paintings have been an integral part in human history with the earliest known paintings, discovered at the Grotte Chauvet in France, is said to come from a time 32,000 years in humankind’s past and the earliest indications of the act of painting another 30,000 years before then. Over the course of history, painting has takenonmanyrolesandsignificantly,for historical documentation and personal expression.

If you’ve taken a walk down the many galleries in the Louvre, you’ll notice that most of the art pieces are sectioned by the era or centuries in which they were created. That also gives you a good indication as to how art has progressed throughout the course of its existence. The further back you explore, the more dilapidated and ambiguous they appear despite all the care and modern restoration methods available today. Looking further into the contents behind many of the paintings, you’ll also notice that different artist's over the course of history have visited the same premise, event, or subject matter, oftentimes with a similar set of expressions, compositions or features

which can controversially be said to be the earliest forms of art reproduction.

It is hard to tell what the motivations of those artists were when recreating similar scenes or situations. Many incorporate their own twist based on their own interpretation or point of view whereas perhaps others just wanted a similar copy of their own. Oftentimes, these competing versions are not from contemporaries and sometimes even from differing eras which opens up the debate as to their motivations long lost in time. It is hard to pinpoint an exact period where art reproduction started gaining prominence but in a day and age where art was more visually appreciatedthanfinanciallyvalued,it gave art connoisseurs an easier access to masterpieces, or at least a resemblance to it, and it has since expanded avenues for the appreciation of art worldwide.

Today, art reproduction plays a larger role by providing artists an opportunity to scale the value of their artwork while still preserving their ownership of the original creation. This prolonged ownership also allows the original to appreciate over time thus increasing its value which, upon a sale at a later

date, is transferred to the original artist rather than to say, an initial purchaser of the artwork if art reproduction did not exist. To the buyer, no doubt perhaps this may be a disadvantage butitdoesalleviatethefinancialburdens any starving artist may have and it lowers the cost of entry for an authenticated piece which opens opportunities for appreciation by the masses. Unfortunately, the bulk of poor art reproductions from China (one of the major suppliers of art reproduction around the world) has had an adverse effect on the desirability of art reproduction pieces.

To understand art reproduction, we have to understand the process that goes behind the creation of a reproduction. There are 2 major considerations when looking at art reproduction: the method and the material used. As lightly referred to above, the most straightforward reproduction method is by literally repainting a copy by hand. Naturally, the quality of the copy depends on the skill of the artist and would only pass off as an original to the untrained eye. The other method gaining mainstream acceptance is giclee prints made from

writer | George Wongphotography | Courtesy of ArtVault Sdn. Bhd.

55

ART SPACE

a high resolution digital image that is transferred to a canvas or archival grade paper through inkjet printers. Essentially carbon copies, if done by a seasoned professional, some are even enhanced by the original artist by hand after the print has been completed.

Both methods should come with a certificateofauthenticityandyoushould always question if there’s a signature on the painting itself. Hand painted art reproductions generally should not come with a signature unless the reproduction was made by the original artist. Verify this beforehand to avoid purchasing a fake that holds no real value in the open market. Giclee prints, being digital copies, commonly include a signature of the original artist (either printed together with the image or hand signed after the print has been produced) but one should always verify it with the certificate,tobeonthesafeside.Thechoice of one or the other is generally a personal preference as some prefer a painting which is actually painted by an actual painting artist whereas others prefer an original copy.

An area often overlooked by casual buyers is the quality of canvas or

material used for the reproduction. A poor quality canvas is suspect to environmental factors which may even warp or distort after a certain period of storage or display. A museum-quality reproduction should be produced on an archival grade material which will retain its structural and visual integrity for more than a 100 years and should be almost indistinguishable from the original. Always check with the seller before concluding a purchase and avoid any who can’t give you a clear or straight answer on this point, especially ifyou’repayingasignificantamountfor a reproduction.

Despite being reproductions, they can stillholdasignificantvalueespeciallyifthey’re sold in limited runs. Many have made a successful residual business by retaining the original permanently and focusing purely on reproductions and even merchandising as the main source of revenue. A great success story of an artist using this method is Thomas Kinkade, touted as 'the most successful and collected living artist in the US', best known today for his Disney inspired series called Disney Dreams. Browsing deep through his website, not only do you see a whole

host of aforementioned offerings, you’ll findawholedealershipecosystem.Thomas Kinkade is not just an artist, he is now a brand thanks to the strategic use of reproductions.

Starting this month, For Connoisseurs is partnering with ArtVault Sdn. Bhd. to provide you an opportunity to museum-quality giclee reproductions fromsomeofthefinestlocaltalentwhichwewillshowcaseinournew‘ArtGallery’ section. Through your support, we hope to empower our local artist to continue delivering quality despite the adversity faced in the local purchasing climate and one day, perhaps we will have our own Thomas Kinkade right here on Malaysian soil.

ArtVault Sdn. Bhd. pioneers the business of royalty managed art reproduction prints in Malaysia. They provide comprehensive products and services to create the highest quality prints with the look and feel of the originalart.Printsarecertifiedforquality,authenticated and serialized by the original artists or photographers. All prints are deliveredonqualityandbrandedfineart&canvasmaterialschosenfromthefinestpaper mills in Germany, Switzerland, the UK and the US, all which have been tested for archival lifespans exceeding 200 years under recommended storage conditions.

For Connoisseurs56

TEK SENG TEMPLE

FISHERMEN AT WORK

size

24" x 18.5"

material

Canvas/Fine Art Print with embellishment

price

RM850

Framing is optional at RM500/pc 2" liner + ~3" black/brown wood frame with grain

size

24" x 19"

material


price

RM850


ART GALLERY

57

ART GALLERY

JETTY SERIES

CITY LIFE

size

24" x 19"

material


price

RM850


size

24" x 19"

material


price

RM850


ARTIST WONG JONG NONG In 1944 he was born in Singapore. In 1964 after graduating from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), Singapore, Wong Jong Nong settled down in Kuala Lumpur. Throughout the years, he has never stop painting. He specialized in oil painting.Scenesofnature,fishingvillagesandcountrysceneriesarehisfavorites.Through brilliant colors, and rustic brush-strokes, he reflects life along riverbanks and coastal lines on canvases. Wong allows art to document the natural surrounding and enhances our knowledge about the world we live in.

For Connoisseurs58

JETTY SERIES

CITY MURAL

size

24" x 18.5"

material


price

RM850


size

24" x 20"

material


price

RM850


ART GALLERY

59

ART GALLERY

WET MARKET

JETTY SERIES

size

24" x 20"

material


price

RM850


size

24" x 20"

material


price

RM850


To order, please e-mail our sales representatives at [email protected].

Please indicate your preference and we will respond within 24 hours. Expect a week for production before delivery. The indicated purchase price excludes delivery charges. Standard delivery charges apply or the purchaser can opt for self-pickup if within the Klang Valley region. Terms & conditions apply.

For Connoisseurs60

Burberry Prorsum Menswear

61

FASHION TRENDS

FASHION TRENDS SUMMER 2013

writer | Szetoo Weiwenphotography | Courtesy of representative brands

Summer is just around the corner though quite frankly, it’s here all year round this side of the equator. Nevertheless, it’s fun to dive into the thick of runway action as we bring to you the latest hits and must haves this season as they strut down the runway. Spring and summer seasons traditionally puts forward a more vibrant colour palette perhaps as tribute to budding blossoms after the drearier winter months. Unlike winter where colors serve to blend in, summer is a time to stand out and be seen. Here are the trends for Summer 2013:

METAL MANIASequins and studs are no longer restricted to nighttime debauchery. Though still inappropriate for work, gleaming studs and metallic sheens have been seen incorporated as accentsandevenentireoutfitsfordaytime to evening wear as seen in Burberry and Jonathan Saunders’ collections. Popular colors revolve around gem-like hues such as diamondwhites,fieryreds,sapphireblues, deep purples and emerald greens.

Designers to look out for: Burberry, Jonathan Saunders, Michael Kors, Tom Ford, Simone Rocha, Fendi, Alexander Wang

FOR

Burberry Prorsum Womenswear

For Connoisseurs62

PSYCHEDELIC PRINTSWe’re not talking houndstooth, leopard or Aztec prints. This year, prints are given a bold and wild touch. House of Holland’s glamorous but daring collection full of trippy shades, show stopping shades of yellow, purple and acid green while Mary Katrantzou and Holly Fulton concentrated on abstracted, Pollock-like patterns. Ditch your inner wallflower, because this trend is loud and proud.

Designers to look out for: House of Holland, Mary Katrantzou, Holly Fulton, Proenza Schouler, Peter Pilotto

BIKER, BOMBER JACKETSOriginally created for pilots, the bomber jacket (also known as flight jackets) have evolved to become a pop culture favourite in the late 1990s. These modern day jackets from Stella McCartney and Christopher Kane are both edgy yet subtly sweet with intrinsic detail. You don’t need a Harley to look like a biker babe.

Designers to look out for: Stella McCartney, Christopher Kane, Antipodium, Versus, Daks

House of Holland

Stella McCartney

Christopher Kane Valentino

House of Holland

Proenza Schouler

63

FASHION TRENDS

FLORA & FAUNAAh, what’s summer without floral prints invading gardens and runways across the globe. Alternatively you could just put a flower in your hair and call it a day but any fashionista will flip at the atrocity of such simplicity. Dior shone with their vibrant colours and intricate motifs cascade down skirts while from Erdem, it was on trousers and Vivienne Westwood took it upon head pieces for her collection. Other garden critters and landscapes also made an appearance including the ever popular vintage bird motifs. Floral is going traditional this year, grandma would be so proud.

Designers to look out for: Vivienne Westwood, Erdem, Christian Dior, Valentino, Kinder Aggugini

CHIC MONOCHROMEThe monochrome trend continues to frontline the runways of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Acne so don’t tell us that burgundy is the new black because these shades are in a class of their own and they’ll stay that way. Instead of blending in with the crowd, these two colors when combined in the form of stripes, checks, houndstooth printsorgraffitiareamarriagemadeinfashion heaven.

Designers to look out for: Acne, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Balenciaga, Eudon Choi

Marc Jacobs Marc Jacobs

Kinder Aggugini

Kinder Aggugini Christian Dior

Michael Kors

For Connoisseurs64

FASHION TRENDS

JEWELLERY FIT FOR ROYALTY

GENDER MIXJune Singer once said that androgyny is not trying to manage the relationships between the opposites; it is simply flowing between them. What’s important is to achieve that yin and yang where masculinity and seduction intersects. It is unapologetic, liberating, and empowering. From Michael Kors to Stella McCartney, designers mixed feminine, whimsical looks with straight-edged, androgynous cuts, allowing for day-to-day role-play. Pair your tea dresses with biker jackets or tailored suits with bare-midriffs, shake up those conformist gender norms, because this season it’s all about exploring the layers of modern womanhood.

Designers to look out for: Michael Kors, Lacoste. Acne, Stella McCartney, Thomas Tait

NINETIES SPORTFilms of the 90s play out the summer fantasies and teenage romances like awhimsicaldream.Ironically,outfitsback then still remained as the perfect definitionofacasualsummer.Today,those nineties nostalgia is making a comeback through neon jerseys, oversized cloth jumpers and grunge inspired mesh jackets. Did we also mention dungarees? Yes those too and bare midriffs.

Designers to look out for: Topshop Unique, Ashish, JW Anderson, Richard Nicoll, Antonio Berardi

Anderson

Ashish Anderson

Michael Kors

Michael Kors

Michael Kors

65

COUTURE

JEWELLERY FIT FOR ROYALTY Throughout history, women of

nobility and gentry have mesmerized us with their immeasurable wisdom, grace, and beauty. The regal aura surrounding these noble women has the enigmatic ability to capture the hearts of many. MORAGLIONE 1922, creatorsoffinejewelleryestablishedin Valenza, Italy, immortalizes the beauty of four special royalties in the form of ever-lasting jewellery. A brand steeped in timeless tradition and rich heritage naturally has the capability to tell the mysterious tale of each princess, juxtaposed against colourful precious stones and alluring diamonds.

writer | Anya Tanphotography | Courtesy of Poh Kong

▲ The ANASTASIA Collection Smoky Quartz, Rose Quartz, Pink Sapphire, Mother of Pearl with Diamonds in 18K Rose Gold

For Connoisseurs66

GRACE Collection

SOFIA Collection

The GRACE Collection derives its inspiration from Princess Grace of Monaco, France. She worked her way to stardom in the limelight – a darling in everybody’s eyes. Her fate changed forever upon meeting the Prince of Monaco. The collection inspired by her is characterised using big semi-precious stones that are transparent and clear. The intense natural colour of the sapphire reminds one of the blue of the Mediterranean Sea reflecting clear skies as found in “Cote d’azur” during the summer, a reflection of her warm personality that won the hearts of many.

The SOFIA Collection, a highly sought after MORAGLIONE 1922 creation, is the epitome of simplistic elegance with its clean forms. The inspiration for SOFIA’s design originates from theregalcrownofQueenSofia,bytheround and oval-shaped cabochon that were used during that era to decorate jewellery and fabric.

◄ The SOFIA Collection features three different rings made with Yellow, Pink and White Gold with White Diamonds encrusted around the outer layer. The gem stones features three different combinations - London Blue Topaze with Mother of Pearl, Onyx and Rutile Quartz, Ruby and Amethyst.

◄ The GRACE Collection features White Gold Ring, Blue Sapphires, White Diamonds And London Blue Topaz.

67

In 1922, a passion is born.

Marco Moraglione firmly believed in the principle of doing each thing with joy and enthusiasm, paving the way for the brand that would become one of Italy’s most revered jewellery brand.

Almost a century ago, Massimo Moraglione, a craftsman with a great passion, started his business in jewellery. In 1943 brothers Marco and Pierino cycled the length and breadth of Italy greatly contributing to the expansion of the fledging company. Since then, the Moraglione brothers have never looked back.

To state that Moraglione is a company with historical ties to the Valenza area, does not allow you to perceive the many adventures and the emotional commitments the Moraglione brothers endured over the years. Though the war and its aftermath, the boom, times of crisis and market evolution, they overcame each socio-economic transformation with resilience and intelligence.

The result is Moraglione today: a company with a unique imprint, able to merge the quality of style with the perfect selection of precious stones. An impeccable taste that perfectly combines the classic and trendy designs.

For MORAGLIONE the jewel is a masterpiece of art. Its beauty and harmony should raise admiration and the desire to possess it and wear it, not only as a simple accessory to compliment an outfit, but to accentuate the femininity of the woman.

About MORAGLIONE 1922

ANASTASIA Collection

ISABELLA Collection

The ANASTASIA Collection is the most enigmatic of them all, a true reflection of the life of the Grand Duchess of Russia, youngest daughter of the Tsar. The elegance of the clean forms together with the peculiarity of the combination of two gem stones gives this collection the idea of the regal life in Russia at the time of the Romanov Empire.The‘icy’andcrystallineeffectof mother of pearl and an array of natural quartz reminiscences cold Russian winters.

Inspired by the namesake of Queen Isabel of Spain, the ISABELLA Collection is an ode to the beautiful Spanish landscape, which is a medley of red sand, grey monuments, and grand churches. The characteristic beauty of Spain is rendered in the different shades of moonstone, from brown to grey to pink, combined with red rubies. The pendant’s form resembles a large crown.

The MORAGLIONE 1922 collection is available exclusively in selected Poh Kong outlets.

► The ANASTASIA Collection features Pink Sapphires, Rose Quartz and Mother of Pearl in 18k Rose Gold.

◄ The ISABELLA Collection features earrings in Rhodochrosite, Pink Quartz, Champagne, Black and White Diamond.

COUTURE

For Connoisseurs68

THE LEGEND WHO CREATED A UNIVERSEwriter | Goerge Wongphotography | Courtesy of Montblanc

There is not a curious mind in the world who does not know Albert Einstein and his most decorated formula: E=mc². His work has made possible the creation of modern technologies like GPS systems and mobile phones to other more powerful and terrifying creations abused by man like nuclear power and atomic bombs. To sum up his importance to humanity, he is one of the fathers, if not THE father of modern civilization.

As a subdued man whose interest were limited to violins and sailing, he has led acolorfullifethatdefieshisstatureasa theoretical physicist. He famously gave up his German citizenship while pursuing his education in Switzerland to avoid military draft at the age of 16 and he wasn’t even a recognized

scientist during the year which saw published his infamous Annus Mirabilis papers, four articles which includes the most famous equation E=mc², the photoelectric effect, Brownian motion and the special theory of relativity. Glossed over by most general history or science lessons, Albert Einstein was considered to be aloof by his peers and educators in his early days to the point, he considered himself a loser which even made him muse at a possibility of a career change to an insurance salesman. Upon his eventual graduation, he found employment as aneducatordifficultandasaresult,hesettled on a simple profession as an assistantexamineratthepatentofficein Bern. This humble vocation gave him ample time to daydream (or what he called thought experiments) that

gave birth to his genius and in 1905, he published the aforementioned theories which has come to be known as his ‘miracleyear’.

A year or two after publishing Annus Mirabilis, he discovered limitations in his special theory of relativity and he started work on what has become known as the general theory of relativity in 1907, which challenged Sir Isaac Newton’s law of universal gravitation and the father of modern science. Albert Einstein published his findingsin1916,about230yearsafterNewton’s law was published.

Throughout the course of this process, he was recognized as a leading scientistin1908andfinallyappointeda full professor in 1911, 6 years after

69

PENMANSHIP

his thought provoking theories, at the age of 32. The general theory of relativity proved to be a challenging theory to validate as the staging ground for its application would require photographing a solar eclipse accurately for precise calculations based on his theory to be made. With the help of dedicated astrophysicist and at the height of World War I. three attempts were made in August 1914, June1918andfinallyMay1919atvarious locations around the world before the theory could be validated.

With his impact on science helping to shape the world in general, it would seem that he would have been a strong contender for the Noble Prize but he was only awarded in 1921 for his early work on photoelectric effect

and not on his theory of relativity. Some suggest that his inability to prove his theory substantially before the three attempts was a roadblock to the prize. The worldwide fame that his theory brought him caused many of his peers to question its validity further which brought forth another attempt, this time to Australia in September 1922, that conclusively proved his theory without a shadow of a doubt thus cementing his legacy in humankind history.

The Albert Einstein Limited Edition 3000 pays homage to this legendary intellect who paved the way for the quantum theory and the Manhattan project. This design is inspired by his quest in resolving the space time riddle with a platinum-plated body

representing a shining beacon in the cosmos while the dark blue lacquer of the cap brings to mind the darkness of the endless universe. Einstein’s legacy is also remembered in the man-made element einsteinium (Es), which is engraved on the hand-crafted rhodium plated 18k gold nib of the Limited Edition 3000. Most significantlyisthelimitationof3000units which represents roughly one hundredth of the value so essential to Einstein’s vision of the universe - the speedoflight-whichtodayisdefinedto be exactly 299,792.458 km/s. This exclusive limited design comes in Ballpoint and Rollerball with 1500 pieces each.

For more information, please visit www.signaturetime.com.

For Connoisseurs70

THIRST QUENCHING COOLERS

Malaysia, as like with many other tropical countries, would have their own concoctions to quench their thirsts during the hot weather.

A mixture of cool, refreshing, tangy lemongrass, mint, citrusy fruits, passion fruit, soda, sorbet and ice forms the basis of Serai’s signature drinks providing a healthy boost of Vitamin C and anti-oxidants. The drinks not only tantalize your taste buds but they also whet your appetite keeping you feeling refreshed during the hot listless days.

Available at Serai Restaurant outlets in Empire Shopping Centre, Subang Jaya & Paradigm Shopping Centre, Kelana Jaya

Sky Bar, Level 33, Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur Tel: (603) 2332 9888

As you chill-out with friends after work hours at the newly renovated Sky Bar in Traders Hotel KL, you will be spoilt for choices with 4 of their signatory Cocktail drinks – Kiwitini, Lychee Rose, Raised in Manhattan and Selangor Sling. Each coming with fresh unique concoctions of fruity mixed with alcoholic flavors creating a pleasant heads up buzz as you unwind the work stress of the day away.

LunaChillOutBar,Level34,PacificRegencyHotel Suites Tel : (603) 2332 7777

For the non-alcoholic drinkers, fret not as Luna Bar’s award winning Bar Manager, Jose Kim, has created 2 new Mocktails to ease the thirstiness with an attractive mixture of colors made with fruits, syrups, soda and ice. Fresh out of the shaker’s new Mocktails are Berry Diablo and Firebird. These drinks are so new that they are not even on the Luna Bar’s menu yet at this point of time.

writer | Mandy Leongphotographer | Jasper Yong

SERAI RESTAURANT SKY BAR LUNA BAR

01

01

02

02

03

03

71

WINE CELLAR

A WINE FOR ALL OCCASIONSwriter | Mandy Leongphotographer | Jasper Yong

occasion. We interviewed Vin of Tanzini at Level 28 GTower for his recommended list of easy drinking wines to celebrate the special occasion.

If you are still uncertain what to drink, Tanzini also offers a Wine Sampler Set consisting of three 60ml of red wines or white wines at RM43++.

To enjoy these wines, kindly contact Tanzini, GTower at 603-2168 1899 for reservations and Vin, the Wine Manager, will recommend you the best wines to go with your meals.

well known in history to last for weeks, sometimes even months, and wine was often consumed throughout that period.

Today, wine is a lucrative industry throughout the world and is enjoyed in every country. Sometimes, traditions don’t last from one century to another but wine has survived the test of time and is still being drunk at celebrations-social events between friends, families and strangers. It is a truly culinary tradition that has stood the test of time.

A celebration is never complete without a toast to congratulate the joyous

Wine is as old as civilization itself and hasheldasignificantplaceinmanyancient traditions that still holds till today. Each continent has their own unique ingredients to make wine from grapes to grains fermentation.

Do you sometimes wonder how and why wine is often associated with celebrations?

Wine is a fermented beverage that started in 8500 B.C. following after the firstfermentedbeveragewhichwasmead, ale and beer. In ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt and Medieval Europe, wine was a drink of royalty, nobility, priesthood and merchants. In ancient India and China, wine was enjoyed throughout the country be it royalty, nobility, military or peasants.

The ancient Greek and Roman philosophers discovered that wine had medicinal values. They celebrated its therapeutic values along with its social values and even had eulogies written for them.

“*Plato – No thing more excellent nor more valuable than wine that was ever granted mankind by God and “*Horace – Wines brings to light the hidden secrets of the soul, gives being to our hopes, bids the coward flight, drives dull care away, and teaches new means for accomplishments of our wishes”

Throughout history, whether birth, birthdays, marriages, coronations, war victories or losses, deaths, wine was often consumed during these occasions. In ancient China, whenever there was a daughter born, a jar of rice and grain wine known as Nu’Er Hong would be buried underground and only unearthed and served to the wedding guests when that daughter gets married. In Ancient Greece and Rome, celebratory philosophical parties are

CHAMPAGNEsuitable for all types of dishes

Louis Roederer Champagne Brut Premier - RM420++

Perrier-Jouet Belle Epooue Champagne Brut 2002, - RM1,265++

WHITE WINESsuitable for white meats and light tasting dishes

Louis Jadot Chablis - RM235++

Dr. Loosen Bernkasteler Lay Riesling Kabinett 2011 - RM230++

* Quotes sourced from www.theworldwidewine.com

RED WINESsuitable for red meat dishes and heavy tasting dishes

Bolgheri Sasigaia 2007 - RM900++

Saint Julien Croix De Beaucaillou 2003 - RM610++

Chateau A’Armailhae Grand Gru Classic 2003 - RM630++

For Connoisseurs72

DEFINING THE ‘RIGHT’ DIETwriter | Anya Tan

photographer | Szetoo WeiwenVendors selling their wares at one of India's many bazaars where the traditional Indian diet constitutes of root vegetables such as potatoes, tapioca and turnips.

73

PERSPECTIVE

The evolution of human nutrition can be traced back to more than 3 million years,wherearchaeologists’firstuncovered evidence that gave clues to what our hominid ancestors ate for survival.Twosignificantdiscoveriesweremade–first,hominidswerenot equipped with claws and had flat molars, which indicated that the human body was not built for the procurement and digestion of meat. However, archaeologists also noted that the hominid’s jaw structure underwentsignificantchange,suchaslengthened incisors that were designed to tear meat apart. The second evidence was the discovery of fossils in the form of crude stone tools, which archaeologists’ deduce were used to hack meat off the bones of animals for consumption.

In the Neolithic revolution, humankind began to master food production by cultivating crops and farming livestock, depending on the climate upon which aculturethrives.Anothersignificantfactor in human history that has impacted our diet is our cultural and religious beliefs. Religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism gave birth to vegetarianism, all rooted in the spirit of non-violence.

To put things into perspective, let us take a look at India, one of the world’s largest vegetarian nations, with the USDA estimating around 20% to 42% of the population being vegetarian. Gujarat, the birth place of legendary freedomfighterMahatmaGandhicarries his legacy in the form of a vegetarian state. Although fresh meat is accessible, still 70% of the Gujarati population remain steadfast with their dietary preference.

On the other end of the spectrum is the exclusively carnivorous Inuit diet, consisting of seal, walrus, cold water mammals and an array of sea produce. A look into the North Pole climate tells it all – the glacial temperatures and bare landscape is unsuitable for agriculture, and the only source of food available to the Inuit people is from the sea. Yet, the Inuit are well-known as a self-sustaining community untainted by modern development with a peace-loving nature.

This stark contrast between two polar opposites marks the inextricable relationship between the physical and psychological evolution of man and nature – Whether humans are born inherently herbivores or omnivores is at best an educated guess. As the progress of humankind goes beyond just mere subsistence, so has the nature of our dietary preferences. With modern agricultural advances, food is now abundant and made accessible to most. In fact, meat once enjoyed a brief period in history where it was revered as a symbol of wealth, only

procurable to the hands of few. Today, food has become an intercultural experience as modern technology overcomes the limitations of our climate by allowing us to transcend borders and explore exotic diets beyond our own.

The transition of food's status as a 'need' to a 'want' brings about changes in the way our food is produced. No longer is food grown or cultivated – livestock, once allowed to feed on endless pastures, is now manufactured in factories, much like inanimate products. Even plants were not spared the mercy of industrialization – plant speciesarenowgeneticallymodifiedto yield produce fast while maintaining resilience against external elements. Geneticmodificationofplantshasitsown share of controversies, but none of it comes as pressing as the moral dilemma of the modern century – unlike plants, animals feel pain. Hence, is the consumption of animals ethical?

There is not one absolute answer to this as earlier on we have already examined the relationship between human and food. For the Inuit, consuming meat was a matter of survival. For Indians, it was a matter of cultural beliefs that held them back from meat consumption. But in a day and age where we are well informed of our choices and its impending consequences, plus the luxury of making choices of our own, are we doing the right thing?

Those who cannot justify the consequences of consuming meat, be it on a spiritual or environmental level, have chosen the path of vegetarianism. Bringing this concept up a notch is veganism, the practice of abstaining not just meat products but anything that would do harm to animals.

As illustrated earlier, there is simply no way to pinpoint which diet is right. From a nutritional perspective, both omnivore and herbivore diets are not without their merits and shortcomings – the consumption of meat is directly linked to heart disease and cancer; while those who abstain from meat are atriskofnutritionaldeficiencies.

Gary L. Francione, animal rights activist and active proponent of veganism approaches the topic from a moral absolutism standpoint. In The Conversation podcast with Aengus Anderson, Francione boils down meat consumption to a very simple matter of moral judgement. Is it right to sacrificethelifeofanimalsforthelustof our palates and to clothe our backs with their skin?

He asserts that veganism should simply be a matter of good moral values of choosing between what is right and what is wrong. Yet, he laments that simple morality is lost in postmodernist society, which encourages pluralism, effectively annihilating thinking by watering down moral issues into just “a matter of opinion”. If it is absolutely immoral to take away the life of a human being, no justificationisvalidfortheslaughterofliving animals for food.

WHAT IS "THE CONVERSATION"?

A project dedicated to prompting intellectual conversation to uncover new ways of rethinking the norm is The Conversation, a medley of intellectual ideas by American thinkers immortalized in podcasts.

Moreatwww.findtheconversation.com

For Connoisseurs74

The message of anti-cruelty is also watered down by organizations with good intentions but ineffective means of execution. Amidst the sexually-charged messages by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), is the media scrutiny on such organizations due to their intent of delivering the message of anti-cruelty to the masses; or is it the media’s irresistiblegratificationtowardscelebrity faces?

Such an approach in advocating for a vegan lifestyle effectively creates an invisible divide, an 'us' versus 'them' scenario. Is this a viable means of propagating good moral values by demonizing one another? If we were to work towards the common good, should there not be a divide that marginalizes one group from another?

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary,anormisdefinedas“aprinciple of right action binding upon the members of a group and serving to guide, control, or regulate proper and acceptable behaviour”. Norms

are never challenged because these practices are deeply entrenched within cultures, making it easy for these seemingly innocuous “normal” life habits to go unquestioned and their consequences unnoticed. If meat consumption is the result of social conditioning that is gradually normalized over time, is the meat eater to blame for their dietary habits inherent to their culture and upbringing?

The hate-mongering towards omnivores with the agenda of trying to convert them through guilt also defeats vegan principles. The foundation of veganism is built upon the love of all living beings, but if vegans cannot learn to respect another fellow human beings’ choice, such behaviour is borderline fundamentalist and downright extreme. Such dictatorial behaviour cannot last long and if the conversion of a meat-eater does not stem from the principle of love and respect to living beings, ultimately defeating the vegan purpose.

“The Vegetarian Myth”, an aptly titled book puts forth another radical argument that stands in stark contrast against Francione’s moral absolutist standpoint. Author Lierre Keith is an American writer, radical feminist, food activist, and environmentalist – similar credentials with Francione but with vastly polarizing views. Keith asserts that “the truth is that agriculture is the most destructive thing humans have done to the planet, and more of the same won’t save us. The truth is that agriculture requires the wholesale destruction of entire ecosystems. The truth is also that life isn’t possible without death, that no matter what you eat, someone has to die to feed you.”

Keith was once a devout vegan for over twenty years before reverting back to consuming meat. She believed that eliminating meat from our diet is not the solution – the only means to salvage the situation is to tackle the roots of all evil – industrial capitalism. Traditional farming allowed an animal to live the natural course of their lives in their native environment before

phot

ogra

pher

| A

nya

Tan

Does sustainable farming strike the right balance for responsible meat-consumption?

75

PERSPECTIVE

THE VEGETARIAN MYTH by Lierre Keith

○ Agriculture is the most destructive thing humans have done to the planet

○ Thefierceadvocacyforavegetable-baseddietisnot the solution

○ Total elimination of meat from our diet is not the solution either

○ Agriculture requires the wholesale destruction of entire ecosystems

○ Life is not possible without death - no matter what you eat, someone has to die to feed you

○ The only means to salvage the situation is to tackle industrial capitalism

○ Compared to industrialized farming, traditional farming allowed an animal to live their natural course of their lives before being slaughtered in modesty and dignity

○ Industrialized farming sets forth a vicious cycle by intensifying crop production to feed livestock, effectively burdening the ecosystem

○ The 'plentiful' meat supply in the supermarket disillusions people into thinking that meat is a bountiful source without considering the repercussions

FOOD FOR THOUGHT from Gary L. Francione

○ 56billionanimalsaresacrificedayearfortheir meat

○ Thereisnoexactestimateforfishandaquatic life, but a low guesstimate would be a trillion

○ Based on various studies, humans don't need animals to be optimally healthy

○ Animal agriculture consumes more of the Earth's resources to grow livestock than to produce crops

○ Animal agriculture also destroys groundwater and soil

○ Animal agriculture is a greater source of global warming than the use of fossil fuels for transportation

○ An acre of land can support 15 to 20 people a year, whereas it takes three to four acres to produce food for an omnivore

○ Thereisnojustificationfortheabovejustfor the sole purpose of producing meat for consumption

slaughtered in modesty and dignity. Sadly, industrialization changed the face of livestock farming forever.

Industrialized farming sets forth a vicious cycle by intensifying crop production to feed livestock, effectively burdening the ecosystem. Damage to the environment does not occur overnight, thus most of us don’t comprehend the magnitude of the issue. What we can see, however, is the plentiful supply of meat in supermarkets where we can purchase at will. This builds a damaging illusion that meat is a bountiful source, effectively neglecting to consider the repercussions of such convenience. Consumer demand then increases; prompting factories to maximize output through the lowest cost, at thegreatsacrificetoanimalsandour environment. The packaging of modern meat produce bears images of free-roaming animals and friendly farmer faces, but is it a reality? Though

most of us are aware of what goes behind the façade, still many are disillusioned into thinking that it is real. After all, who would question a norm we have grown comfortable with?

Such is the paradox of the omnivore versus herbivore debate that this topics should join the ranks of the classic chicken and egg situation. If the discourse of the debate continues toremainfocusedonfindingoutwho is right or wrong, we will forever run in circles without coming up to a real conclusion; and along the way entrenching deeper in unnecessary spite and contempt towards each other due to conflicting worldviews.

We have to learn that the only means of achieving utopia in this topic is mutual respect, a respect for one another’s culture, and a respect for nature. Though the global village phenomenon is growing more apparent as we approach the age of

interconnectivity, still the fact remains that we all live in different realities and this is inevitable due to upbringing and culture. Belittling a culture’s traditional diet by forcing upon alien ideals is not the way. It is when we share mutual understanding that the earth is in need of help that we can walk towards the common goal of preserving the planet for the future generations to come.

If going vegetarian or totally vegan is too drastic a change for you, consider taking small steps in your local community to work your way towards changing the current status quo. Purchase from the local farmer’s market. Participate in a community supported agriculture program. Introduce less meat and more vegetables into your family’s diet. Making a change need not be making a radical movement that sweeps across the globe – it starts within our own community as that is where our outreach will be felt most.

STARK CONTRAST OF POLAR OPPOSITES

For Connoisseurs76

GASTRONOMY

KIMCHI TUNA KIMBAP

KIMCHI TUNA KIMBAP

Ingredients:

Cooking instructions:

writer | Szetoo Weiwenphotographer | Szetoo Weiwen

Korean cuisine has come a long way over the centuries, influenced by different cultural trends and political changes from Southern Manchurian and the Korean peninsula itself. Food permeates every aspect of life for Koreans - it provides taste, medicine and connection to the country. Known as the third member of the Korean Wave, after K-Pop and K-Dramas, Korean cuisine which is largely based upon rice, vegetables, and meats have become extremely popular with adventurous epicureans in many parts of the world. Traditional Korean meals come with an impressive number of side dishes, known as banchan, which accompanies steam cooked short grain rice. Kimchi is also almost always a regular at every dinner table.

With the many Korean expat communities around the Klang Valley, Korean convenience stores are a blessing for both the expats and locals where they can pick up items to prepare simple, wholesome Korean meals in the comfort of their own home. Here’s a simple yet satisfyingly delicious Kimchi Tuna Kimbap recipe which you can prepare for a picnic or dinner parties.

Serves : 2-3Preparation time : 30 minsCooking time : 15 mins

• 5-6 cups cooked rice• 10 Shiso leaves• 250g of Cabbage Kimchi• 2 Japanese cucumbers,

deseeded and quartered across• Several seaweed sheets• One canned tuna• 1 tbsp vinegar• 1 tbsp sugar, divided• 1 tbsp soy sauce• 3 garlic cloves, minced• 1 tsp salt• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted• 3 tsp sesame oil

1. Whisk half of the sugar and the entire salt into vinegar until they dissolve completely.

2. Put the cooked rice into a large mixing bowl and drizzle the above sauce over it.

3. Stir well to coat rice evenly with the sauce and set aside to cool.

4. Add sesame oil to a heated pan and saute garlic until fragrant then add in kimchi. Continue sauteing for 3 to 4 minutes until kimchi is cooked before adding in the canned tuna.

5. Drain the tuna and add it into the kimchi stirfry with a dash of sesame oil

6. Continue to saute over moderate heat, stirring often until the mixture is completely dry.

7. To assemble, spread a seaweed sheet across a bamboo mat and spoon a portion of the rice onto it.

8. Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil on your palms to avoid the rice from sticking to your hands.

9. Spread the rice across the sheet, pressing it at the same time, so that the rice sticks to it.

10. Top it up with the Shiso leaves, cooked kimchi and tuna mixture and a slice of Japanese cucumber.

11. Roll the sheet tightly, with the help of the bamboo mat and unwrap it from the kimbap roll.

12. Wipe a sharp knife with a damp cloth and cut it into slices of about half an inch thick.

13. Serve with your favourite Asian dipping sauce.

This recipe is courtesty of the Korean Tourism Organization. Korean cooking classes are available free of charge every Tuesday on the second and fourth week of every month from 2pm-4pm, where participants will learn how to cook Korean dishes such as Yukgaejang, Namul, Ogokbap and Hobakjeon from a professional Korean cooking teacher.

For more information, visit www.visitkorea.com.my.

Korea Plaza,Ground Floor, Menara Hap Seng,Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur.T : 603-2072 2515F : 603-2072 3552E : [email protected]

TTAA SSSSSSSSS TT EE AAAAAAA SS PP LL AA SS HHooffff

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

SFB Connoisseurs 205x290PATHED.ai 1 7/26/12 3:26 PM

For Connoisseurs78

VIVA LA SOUSVIDE!Having perfectly cooked food will open all your senses and soul to a whole new culinary experience and most people who have had the privilege and pleasure to eat food cooked using the sous vide method can attest to this, with a sly smile. If food had a religion, sous vide would be the almighty holy grail, the mythical secret that would forever change the way we enjoy food.

Over the last 15 years or so, water oven cooking has sneaked into some of the world’s best kitchens and grounded its position as one of the best cooking techniques. An ingenious marriage of science and cuisine resulting in perfectly cooked food be it meat, vegetables and yes, even desserts, every time. This cooking method is simply known as sous vide (pronounced as soo-veed) which

isFrenchfor‘undervacuum’.Theconcept is to cook food at precisely the temperature that you want to serve the food so that the food item is perfectly cooked throughout. Think of sous vide as cooking from the inside out, rather than the outside in. Rather than rushing the cooking process, slow cooking at a low heat creates silky, tender textures. In addition, the vacuum seal allows the spices, herbs and marinades to penetrate and flavour your foods all the way through.

In regular cooking where time is of utmost essence, the SousVide will allow you to cook your proteins and vegetables anywhere from 30 minutes up to a whopping 3 days without any risk of overcooking. Often propagated by chefs like Thomas Keller, molecular gastro chef Heston Blumenthal and

Ferran Adria, the SousVide brings gourmet restaurant cooking methods into your home kitchen at an incredibly affordable price. Really it’s a small price to pay for perfectly cooked food, in fact you may be so spoiled that you may just end up dining in a tad bit too frequently.

The SousVide has the ability to handle both delicate and tougher cuts of meats such as beef, pork, lamb and even poultry without drying or overcooking them. The sous vide cooking method does not only reign on the tongue but also the body by retaining as much important nutrients as possible since they will not be lost to cooking liquid and the temperature is lower than most usual techniques. This is especially crucial when it comes tothefatsinmeatandfishwhichcanoxidize at high temperatures in the presence of oxygen.

Root vegetables and potatoes also absorb seasoned flavours very well and we were very impressed with the

writer | Szetoo Weiwenphotographer | Szetoo Weiwen

79

GASTRONOMY

BASIC STEPS TO USING THE SOUSVIDE SUPREME

SousVide Supreme is available at Havery Norman, ESH, TBM and all major electrical shops. Two models are available and each set comes with a vacuum sealer, priced at RM2,199 and RM2,899.

consistency of texture from skin to core. If you’re a fan of poached fruits for your entrees or desserts then you’d be glad to know that the SousVide does an excellent job of converting your peaches, apples and pears into delectable gems bursting with flavour.

We don’t know about you, but topping our list of comfort foods is the quintessential soft boiled egg. The perfect soft boiled egg should havefirm,custardlikewhitesandairresistibly warm runny yolk. This is a trickier endeavor compared to hard boiledeggsandanartthatisdifficultto master.

Armed with a dozen eggs on a weekday morning, we popped a few

into the SousVide at 64 degrees Celcius and let it work its magic while this writer decided the extra hour would be a good time to spring clean the kitchen and put a plate or two back in its rightful shelves. Dear reader, the resulting egg was so beautiful it trumped all the other soft boiled eggs that passed through this kitchen. Not only was it sight to behold, it was also delicate, carefully holding it’s shape, creamy with the right thickness and consistency.

When cooking meats such as steak, it becomes medium rare from edge toedgewithoutthe‘bulls-eye’effectof a well done ring, medium ring and subsequently a rare centre.

Consistency is key and boy is it delicious. The SousVide is perfect for you whether you’re a regular in the kitchen or not. Meals can be prepared ahead of time and still taste delicious even days later. With this machine, it’s almost impossible to overcook and no more guessing whether your food is fully cooked on the inside or not. That gives less experienced cooks a chance to cook a perfect medium rare steak or adelicatefishfilletproperly,everytime.

The SousVide Supreme comes with alittlerecipebookfilledwith16basic recipes you can try for yourself as well as a list of ingredients and recommended cooking temperatures and durations.

▲ Vacuum sealed pouches ensure that all seasonings and condiments permeates the food thoroughly.

◄ The half boiled eggs turned out delicate, carefully holding it’s shape, creamy with the right thickness and consistency.

1. Season Vacuum sealing the food with any

seasonings, spices or oils will lock in both the flavour of the food and enhance the seasonings. Use frozen broth cubes instead of its liquid form before sealing or you’ll end up with a mess.The same goes with oil.

2. Seal Use only food grade plastic vacuum

sealable pouches to package your food and do not overfill your pouch.

3. Simmer Allow the temperature of the machine

to rise until the desirable heat before placing the sealed pouch into the water batch. When cooking multiple pouches of food, use the pouch rack and ensure that all pouches are submerged underwater.

4. Sear The final step of the cooking process

is to sear foods that require a caramelization or a crisp exterior either on a very hot, lightly oiled skillet, a hot grill, an oven or with a kitchen torch. Take care to caramelize or brown the surface for 1 to 2 minutes to enhance color and flavour.

For Connoisseurs80

GASTRONOMY

81

GASTRONOMY

PACKING THAT PERFECT PICNIC BASKETwriter | Szetoo Weiwen

Growing up, my parents made it a point to take us on picnics quite frequently. Unlike these days where parents would just take their kids to themall,ourweekendsweredefinedby a beautiful day out in the sun with a picnic basket, family and friends. It was a reprieve from one too many hours of homework and educational telly and my mother being, well, my mother, would spend long hours preparing breakfast, lunch and snacks, and would constantly remind us for the rest of the

day about how much effort she had put into it.

Despite the abundance of food, there were often little nitty problems that irritated us like the plastic basket whose handle was too flimsy, heavy silverware that we had to lug around and the lack of junk food. Of course, at a much older age, I found the last bit to be of low priority. Carrying the classic wicker picnic basket can be quite taxing especially if a lot of hiking is involved. These days there are plenty

of less unwieldily basket alternatives that come in the form of fashionable yet functional backpacks, pouches and even tote bags.

Today, anyone can easily pack a healthy, wholesome meal but the art of packing a picnic basket isn’t as simple as you think. You need to think about the volume and amount of food required to fuel your body for the whole day. Here are some quick tips when it comes to packing picnic foods:

PROTEINS

When you’re on the go, protein enriched food will keep you full for a long time. While not all proteins are picnic perfect, food like peanut butter, cheese sticks, precooked Edamame, nuts, grilled chicken, chunky canned tuna are your best bet. Raw or pickled food are convenient and will not go bad easily.

FIBER & GRAINS

These complex carbohydrates will give you plenty of energy for any outdoor activity you plan to engage. Plus they make the perfect accompaniment for any of your proteins. Our favourites include crackers, pita bread, whole grain bread, steamed brown rice or pasta.

FRUITS & VEGETABLES

Fruitsandvegetablescontainfiber,nutrients and energy for the body plus they come in all forms of exciting sizes, textures, and flavours. Whole fruit is convenient and easy to pack, while dried fruit can be packed with nuts for a delicious power mix which you can eat on the go or with yogurt. Easy to prepare vegetables include apples, pears, oranges, raisins, apricots, cherries, carrot and celery sticks, cauliflower and broccoli florets. Just remember to pack them in foil before popping them into the ice box to maintain crisp and freshness.

BEVERAGES

Drinks may end up dropping more than a few degrees in temperature en route to your picnic destination so remember to have them bottled up and packed in an ice box. For a romantic evening by the beach, wine is the way to go with a couple of ice packs.

DIPS

Homemade or off the shelf, dips will make all the difference after a long hike or swim in the sea. It doesn’t matter if you’re not a fan, any picnic outing will have you seeing these bottle jars of goodness in a new light whether it’s salsa, hummus or even plain old mayonnaise. In fact, mayonnaise became an ingredient that I used in almost everything much to my peers’ dismay.

A simple dip to make:

1. Homemade mayonaisse if you have eggs, vinegar and three minutes to spare.

2. Spice it up with garlic, lemon juice, red peppers, curry, thyme or basil.

For Connoisseurs82

GASTRONOMY

TIPS FOR PACKING

1. Stick with Cold Foods Youdon’twanttofindanickymess

at the bottom of your picnic basket after a long hike. Cold foods are also refreshing after a good hike or stroll on the beach.

2. Don’t Spend Too Much Time You may be tempted to pack up

your whole kitchen but chill, packing for a picnic should be easy. Prep the night before and make sure everythingfitsintoyourbasketandcooler bag.

3. Avoid Plastic or Styrofoam Utensils

Plastic cups and styrofoam plates take over 500 years to decompose so bring your own cutleries and eat out of the container before packing them home to wash.

OTHER PICNIC MUST HAVES

1. Comfort Tools Depending on the size of your group, make

suretobringasufficientlysizedblanket.Sunscreen and insect repellent are also highly necessary in this tropical climate otherwise your day will quickly become a nightmare.

2. Fun Stuff Substitute your phones and tablets for kites

and frisbees. Soak up the atmosphere and work up an appetite! Remember, this is a picnic, not a camping trip.

3. Clean Up Tools Hand sanitizers, wet tissues or damp

cloths are your best friends on a picnic trip. Chances are you’re going to get your hands dirty before and after the meal. Also don’t forget to bring along a few large garbage bags. One for your trash and another to store used plates or containers. These garbage bags can also be used to line damp surfaces under your picnic blanket.

That said, the best picnic food in our books are sandwiches because they’re highly customizable withalltheproteins,fiberandcarbsthatyourbody needs, not to mention they’re delectably gratifying and we reckon you can never go wrong with them. Have the perfect day out planned but can’t be chuffed about food? Well leave it to the Irish sandwich experts, O'Briens to whip up a wholesome and vibrant meal for you and the family. You can now catch an extra hour of sleep by having your favourite sandwiches delivered straight to your doorstep along with their premium blend coffees and juices made with as much love and care as you would in the comforts of your own home.

For more O’Briens menu and delivery services, call 1300-30-3000 or visit www.obriens.com.my

Scan to subscribe now!

FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION

www.connoisseurs.my/free-digital-subscription

www.connoissuers.my

For Connoisseurs #013

Documents

Transcript of For Connoisseurs #013