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West Australian
27-07-2025
- West Australian
Noema, a new Bali resort, marries art with a family focus
It's become truly hard to stand out in Bali's crowded tourist-focused south-western enclave of Canggu, but sometimes it's still possible to find a good surprise. Noema Pererenan Resort, part of Indonesia's own JHL Collection of hotels, is the first resort-style property in the popular namesake beach, set within a 10-minute walk (700m) from the black sand Pererenan Beach and a couple of minutes away from its strip filled with high-brow restaurants, art galleries, and cafes. The 157 rooms are all disabled accessible thanks to large corridors, elevators and ramps. The hotel has two large, attractive swimming pools, and about 11 rooms on the ground floor have secluded verandas with direct access to the second, more private pond. Upon arriving at the lobby, which has a welcoming, large open side strewn with couches, one steps out of the largely concrete-paved surroundings and into a youthful, airy environment. Noema utilises a soothing Mediterranean-type palette of colour, where beige and light sand brown make a relaxing backdrop for splashes of greenery, and walking inside the arch-like ceiling reminded me of stepping into a Middle Eastern caravanserai structure or a Moroccan mansion. A series of couches set below the floor level and hemmed by a pond filled with red fish sets the lobby's farthest perimeter, inviting guests to look right towards the open space where a large free-form pool nestles outside of the wall-to-ceiling windows of Noema's all-day restaurant, Mamaloma. We are served a fruit-infused welcome drink as staff register us in, and soon enough we are ushered in our room, one of Noema's Imagisuite on the third floor — a large, luminous room with a cosy living room space, table and mini-bar and coffee preparing station on the left, separated by a bamboo-covered screen housing a flipping LED television that gives way to the sumptuous bedroom area. The bathroom is impressive — larger than life, with beautiful retro terrazzo tiles and a vintage and artsy vibe, a bathtub to soak in, and, if needed, enough room to accommodate a whole family with children. There's also a balcony that overlooks the swimming pool and — a very nice touch given the speed of development in the area — a relaxing view over Pererenan's last and rare rice terrace fields. Other types of rooms have a private plunge pool and their own rooftop balcony. Their warm, artist home-like feel — each has art books and colourful rugs that set the mood — is the first sign of Noema's commitment to blend hospitality with creativity and art — the rest is all visible as one strolls around the resort's three long floors. One of Noema's characteristic creative features is outside on the second floor: a rock-climbing wall realised by Japanese artist Kanoko Takaya, a mix between adult playground and work of art. A few metres away and set in a vertical open space from the ground to the third floor is another art installation by Jogjakarta-based artist Iwan Yusuf. A giant man and a woman come together in mid-air, cleverly realised using a mix of upcycled materials, most of it sourced from the sea, such as fishing nets, ropes and pieces of driftwood. Just in front of it, on the other side of the corridor on each floor, there is access to Noema's feature dedicated to kids of all ages, the Hoola Playground, which is developed using rope tunnels and slides across three stories. The area is made with a mix of rattan, bamboo and playground-type games that help kids own an area they can explore while their parents enjoy other parts of the resort. The main piece is an octopus installation made of bamboo and rattan, whose tentacles dominate the structure and become the pillars upon and among which the kids can climb, jump and explore. Adults may find the spot attractive, too — the swings and structures are certainly nice for taking pictures. A dedicated studio space is used for workshops and for exhibiting artworks, where guests can take a stroll and get to know about some contemporary Indonesian and visiting artists. Noema takes the art involvement even further by offering international artists the chance to take up residencies of about a week. The guest artists' works are then exposed at the nearby Sun Contemporary Gallery tucked away along Pererenan's main street, a delightful space funded by a South African artist. When we visited, we saw the incredibly detailed miniature paintings of South African artist Lorraine Loots, who created a series inspired by her time on the island. Noema's annexed restaurant, Mamaloma, is set around the right corner from the lobby, with views of the swimming pool hemmed by greenery and rice fields. Breakfast is a la carte, with a menu of eggs and French toast-type mains, with an additional well-stocked buffet area where the highlights definitely were the Indonesian choices (I loved the tempe and fresh ground spicy sambal on offer), the salad area, fresh cheese, and pastries. The coffee served is barista type, brewed with beans from a Jakarta-based company called Roemah Koffie. My cappuccino was frothy the way I like it. The selection of four different coffees in the rooms, all from the same brand, surprised me with fruity flavour and the high quality of the brews. If one had to try lunch at Mamaloma, the menu leans towards Italian tastes. We tried a mushroom soup, which was good but a little salty, and as an Italian I am, I had to try the sourdough pizzas. Done in a Napoli style, they have a soft and light crust that didn't feel stuffy even after I wolfed down a whole pizza. My wife tried the duck confit ravioli — served in a thick layer of olive oil and butter, it's filled with tender shredded meat to enhance the taste and flavour. Well done. I was positively impressed by Noema. The rooms are perfect for families or couples who need a little bit of extra space or an excuse to snuggle inside a foamy bathtub. The swimming pool area is quiet and hemmed by greenery, which is a rarity in these southern Bali parts, and the breakfast is definitely curated and deserving of the area's reputation for excellent food. Families with kids will enjoy having the Hoola Playground as a space to let their little ones go wild, and if I could pick, I'd say that the rooms with private pool access are definitely the highlight. Pick Noema if you look for a cosy and artsy stay with plenty of good vibes and relaxed colours, secluded and yet set deep into the heart of one of Bali's tourist hot areas. + Marco Ferrarese was a guest of Noema. They have not influenced this story, or read it before publication.
Daily Express
28-06-2025
- Daily Express
Sun bear centre draws 79,362 visitors
Published on: Saturday, June 28, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 28, 2025 Text Size: Liew, accompanied by Dr Wong, viewing the sun bears from an observation platform. SANDAKAN: The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment has nurtured the growth and development of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) since its inception in 2008. Its Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew said BSBCC, the only one of its kind in the world for protection of this endangered species, is a partnership project with the Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL), an agency under the Ministry, and Sabah Forestry Department. Sun bears are a Class 1 Protected Species under the state's Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997. 'Last year, we allocated RM228,420 for the construction of Phase 1 of the Entrance Foyer, which has since been completed. This year saw an additional allocation of RM250,000 for construction of Phase 2 of the Entrance Foyer. Work is expected to start this year,' Liew told reporters after a recent visit to the centre here. The Minister noted that this 17-year-old tourist attraction, which is home to 42 rescued sun bears, draws local and international visitors like a magnet. 'I was informed by its Founder and CEO Dr (Hon) Wong Siew Te that the Centre received 79,362 visitors in 2024, with an average of 6613 visitors per month. That year, there were international visitors from 115 countries with the United Kingdom, Australia and Italy being the top three international nationalities that visited the Centre. 'The peak season is from July to October generating the most number of visitors. In fact, we have more Malaysian visitors during the school holidays,' she said. Educationists, researchers, school children and teachers, wildlife conservationists, animal lovers, and the like make up the composition of visitors and tourists, the majority being nature lovers and nature-based tourists. Many may not be aware that the BSBCC is also the main implementing agency for the 10-Year State Sun Bear Action Plan, Liew said. The main attraction to visitors at BSBCC is watching the sun bears' natural behaviour in their natural habitat, the rainforest. 'Sometimes visitors can see the bears climbing and sleeping high on the trees. Random feedings enable the visitors to see them eating as well,' said Dr Wong. According to him, all the sun bears at the BSBCC have been rescued from illegal pet keeping after their mothers were brutally killed by poachers. Over the past 17 years, the Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL) has rescued 70 sun bear orphans and sent them to the conservation centre, he disclosed. Liew commended Dr Wong for his unwavering commitment, patience and perseverance in keeping the BSBCC afloat, despite the multiple challenges that came his way. In a guided tour, he drew the Minister's attention to sun bears kept in Pen B, C, and D, where visitors can view and learn about them. 'We regard them as ambassadors for their species to raise awareness among the general public, apart from being subjects of our research projects,' said the wildlife conservationist. Sharing his multitasking role as the founder and owner of BSBCC, Dr Wong said: 'Since founding the Centre 17 years ago, I have been running the place at all levels, from designing the facility, taking care of the bears, and conducting education and research programs to development of the Centre and fund-raising efforts. Everything that you can think of, even gardening and cleaning the toilets. 'We try our best to take good care of the bears and rehabilitate them. Thirteen rescued sun bears were successfully rehabilitated and released back into the wild. In addition, the latest two rescued sun bear cubs have been sent to Tabin Wildlife Reserve to undergo the 'soft-release' program.' Acknowledging the Ministry's contribution, Dr Wong said KePKAS has helped BSBCC a lot for the past 17 years. 'The Ministry even helped us to raise funds for the Centre to get off the ground in 2008, and gave us a grant for our operational cost in 2013. I hope the Ministry will continue to support our work in the future.' He said the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), an agency under KePKAS, has assisted him in many ways to promote the Centre to the local tourism market and internationally, too. 'On our part, our promotional efforts are through social media platforms (FB, Tiktok, X, YouTube) and websites.' In retrospect, Dr Wong said in the infant years (from 2008 to 2013), BSBCC survived on public donations and grants from various funders across the world, adding 'Since opening to the public on January 16, 2014, we have been depending heavily on ticketing fees and souvenir purchase revenue to run the centre. ' Admittedly, his greatest challenge in operating the Centre is the need to seek sufficient funds, not only to maintain the facility but also to expand it wherever necessary. 'Yes, finding competent staff to help me manage the Centre is also a big challenge.' On his future plans, the farsighted Founder and CEO envisions a third observation platform, an interpretation centre and new office building, and a captive breeding enclosure. 'For BSBCC, these construction plans need financing. I have an undying passion and boundless energy to work for another 30 years. By that time, I am sure I have a lot of successors who can take over my life mission,' Dr Wong quipped. He added that he still needs to raise RM1,000,000 to build the Field Office and staff house for the Tabin Sun Bear Project. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Express
Ministry backs film on endangered pygmy elephants
Published on: Monday, June 23, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 23, 2025 Text Size: Liew (centre), flanked by Mohd Soffian (right) and Chong. Kota Kinabalu: Support from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS) is crucial for the success of the upcoming film 'Agatis : A Borneo Story' (AABS) set to start filming between August and September this year. Its Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew said her Ministry has every reason to lend a hand, given the film's potential as a wildlife tourism booster. 'We will render the necessary assistance through our agency, Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL). Firstly, it is a feature film to protect and raise awareness about the endangered Bornean Pygmy Elephants. Secondly, it would be the first ever film in Malaysia filming in close proximity to these majestic animals under supervision,' she said after a presentation on the film project by the Director of Mondo Ab Films Sdn Bhd (MABF), Jeanette Chong Tze Ling, recently. MABF is a KK-based production company in Sabah. Present was the Director of JHL Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar. Chong, a Sabahan scriptwriter, film director and producer, concurred that the Ministry's support is the key to success of AABS, a 90-minute movie featuring Agatis, a four-year-old female Pygmy Elephant and Aki, a two-year-old male Pygmy Elephant, from the Borneo Elephant Sanctuary (BES) within the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. Advertisement 'I thank the Minister for her personal assistance. The support from the Ministry and Sabah Wildlife Department will bolster the confidence of potential funders and sponsors to come forward to contribute within their capacity. 'This film, my fourth screenplay, is intended not only to be screened in cinemas but also to make its debut at some film festivals,' she said, adding that the move will attract potential local and international filmmakers to produce films in Sabah. Briefing the Minister, the lawyer-turned film producer who is also a martial artist, said 'Agatis : A Borneo Story' is created with the collaboration of more than 50 years of combined experience in storytelling, wildlife cinematography, and high-quality film-making with very experienced and established production teams. 'This is the logline of the film. Both orphaned children - a young lost boy (Dhiren) and a baby Pygmy Elephant (Agatis) from two different worlds - found each other in the magical Borneo jungle where they bonded and became entangled in a battle to protect Agatis's species from greedy poachers,' explained Chong who has a passion for filmmaking. On her rationale behind 'Agatis : A Borneo Story', the film producer stressed that there is a pressing need to raise the level of awareness of the existence of the Bornean Pygmy Elephant, and emphasise the importance of coexistence through the film production. 'I met Jibius Dausip (the Elephant Whisperer) in 2023 to learn more about the Bornean Elephant and encountered baby Agatis for the very first time,' Chong recalled. Asked why Sandakan is given the priority for casting (choosing of actors), she attributed this to the location (Kinabatangan), saying it is ideal for the main cast and baby Bornean Pygmy Elephant to bond before filming starts, together with supervision from BES and their caretakers living in Kinabatangan. 'In July, we are going to do an open casting for the children in Sandakan. We are open to more NGO groups being involved as well as the local people in Kinabatangan.' Once we have successfully secured the funding needed, we hope to commence filming in mid-August or September, Chong added. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Film to protect endangered Bornean pygmy elephants
Liew, flanked by Mohd Soffian (right) and Chong, during the courtesy call. KOTA KINABALU (June 22): A feature film to protect and raise awareness about the endangered Bornean pygmy elephants will start filming in Sabah this year. 'Agatis : A Borneo Story' (AABS) has the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS) to ensure its success. Its minister, Datuk Seri Christina Liew, said her ministry has every reason to lend a hand, given the film's potential as a wildlife tourism booster. 'We will render the necessary assistance through our agency, Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL). Firstly, it is a feature film to protect and raise awareness about the endangered Bornean pygmy elephants. Secondly, it would be the first ever film in Malaysia filming in close proximity to these majestic animals under supervision,' she said after a presentation on the film project by the director of Mondo Ab Films Sdn Bhd (MABF), Jeanette Chong Tze Ling, recently. MABF is a Kota Kinabalu-based production company in Sabah. Present was the director of JHL, Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar. Agatis (left) and Aki at the Borneo Elephant Sanctuary in Kinabatangan. Chong, a Sabahan scriptwriter, film director and producer, concurred that the ministry's support is the key to success of AABS, a 90-minute movie featuring Agatis, a four-year-old female pygmy elephant and Aki, a two-year-old male pygmy elephant, from the Borneo Elephant Sanctuary (BES) within the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. 'I thank the minister for her personal assistance. The support from the ministry and Sabah Wildlife Department will bolster the confidence of potential funders and sponsors to come forward to contribute within their capacity. 'This film, my fourth screenplay, is intended not only to be screened in cinemas but also to make its debut at some film festivals,' she said, adding that the move will attract potential local and international filmmakers to produce films in Sabah. Briefing the minister, the lawyer-turned film producer who is also a martial artist, said: 'Agatis : A Borneo Story' is created with the collaboration of more than 50 years of combined experience in storytelling, wildlife cinematography, and high-quality film-making with very experienced and established production teams. 'This is the logline of the film. Both orphaned children – a young lost boy (Dhiren) and a baby pygmy elephant (Agatis) from two different worlds – found each other in the magical Borneo jungle where they bonded and became entangled in a battle to protect Agatis's species from greedy poachers,' explained Chong who has a passion for filmmaking. On her rationale behind 'Agatis : A Borneo Story', the film producer stressed that there is a pressing need to raise the level of awareness of the existence of the Bornean pygmy elephant, and emphasise the importance of coexistence through the film production. 'I met Jibius Dausip (the elephant whisperer) in 2023 to learn more about the Bornean elephant and encountered baby Agatis for the very first time,' Chong recalled. Asked why Sandakan is given the priority for casting (choosing of actors), she attributed this to the location (Kinabatangan), saying it is ideal for the main cast and baby Bornean pygmy elephant to bond before filming starts, together with supervision from BES and their caretakers living in Kinabatangan. 'In July, we are going to do an open casting for the children in Sandakan. We are open to more NGO groups being involved as well as the local people in Kinabatangan.' Once we have successfully secured the funding needed, we hope to commence filming in mid-August or September, Chong added.
The Star
12-06-2025
- General
- The Star
First male gibbon birth in captivity recorded in Sabah
Picture of Nabalu the newborn gibbon. PIC courtesy of GCS. KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has made history with the first known birth of a male gibbon in captivity, announced Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew. The unprecedented birth on May 8 of a North Bornean Gibbon, scientifically known as Hylobates funereus and locally called 'Kalawot', marks a significant milestone. It is believed to be the first captive birth of its kind globally. Sabah-born primatologist Mariani Ramli, Founder and President of the Gibbon Conservation Society (GCS), gave Liew the honour of naming the baby gibbon born to parents Candyman and Manis. The pair were rescued at the Borneo Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (Borneo GReP) site in Kg Kiau Bersatu, Kota Belud. "The birth is a historic first for this endangered species in captivity at a rehabilitation centre. I chose the name 'Nabalu' (meaning Spirit of the Mountain) for this baby gibbon," Liew said, adding that she symbolically adopted the infant. The Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry, through the Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL), supports the Society's gibbon conservation, rehabilitation, and re-wilding project. Founded in 2013, GCS is a non-profit organisation dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and re-wilding gibbons, which are often victims of the illegal wildlife pet trade. Borneo GReP was established in 2022. Mariani, Director of Operations at Borneo GReP, stated that Nabalu and his parents will be released back into the wild as a family when Nabalu is over six months old, demonstrating readiness for re-wilding. Successful gibbon re-wilding requires meeting criteria set by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Best Practices Guidelines, including brachiation, minimal time on the ground, proper socialisation, and successful co-parenting. The release site must be agreed upon by all stakeholders, including KePKAS, JHL, GCS, and the local community. Liew congratulated Mariani on her international recognition in gibbon conservation, having been named World Female Ranger Ambassador for Resilience twice, in 2024 and 2025. "With your passion and relentless effort, you have made Sabah and Malaysia proud of your leadership in gibbon conservation through your Society," Liew remarked. The two gibbon rehabilitation sites in Sabah and Pahang are Malaysia's only IUCN accredited gibbon rehabilitation project centres. Notably, GCS owns, runs, and manages the Borneo gibbon rehabilitation project site (Borneo GReP) in Kota Belud and the site in Raub, Pahang, is managed by Operations Director Ana Jonessy. Sabah Wildlife Department (JHL) Director Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar, present during the courtesy call, noted that gibbons rescued by the department are handed over to Borneo GReP for rehabilitation.
