Latest news with #Peranakan
Straits Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Sample Korean street fare and other foods at Esplanade's Studios season
SINGAPORE – Judging by the way theatremakers Geoff Sobelle and Jaha Koo drooled over the Peranakan cuisine they had during their brief stops in Singapore, the foodie Republic has offered them indelible gastronomic memories. In August, they will get a chance to feed Singapore audiences their gastronomical and theatrical fare. As part of the Esplanade's The Studios season, Sobelle and Koo are serving up two interactive shows in the form of an elaborate dinner party and a Korean street stall respectively – with real food for select audience members.
Malay Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
Shah Alam's Restoran Penang Gulai serves their own spin on dishes like ‘sambal petai ikan bilis', ‘inchi kabin' and ‘assam' curry fish, as well as Chinese dishes
SHAH ALAM, July 30 -- Mention Peranakan food and the debates can go on and on, whether a place serves authentic food fit for a fussy matriarch. I often feel food evolves with time and place to fit people's needs and economic situation as that's the only way to survive in this harsh F&B industry. Penang Gulai is a prime example of how to stay long and prosper since 1979 — a lesson many new start-ups should learn—by reading the moment, giving people what they want. Rarely seen in restaurants, this Sambal Petai Ikan Bilis is a rice killer with its dry 'sambal' and those crispy 'ikan bilis' with a hint of sweetness. The name may suggest a focus solely on Peranakan food but that's just the tip of the iceberg as the pork-free menu also includes Chinese classics like yam ring, butter fried prawns, shark's fin stir fry with eggs and even tomyam soup appears next to shark's fin soup. Reality bites once you see its surroundings — an industrial area with names like Tamco and Pharmaniaga as their neighbours. That's where you may see customers who have called ahead to order easy-to-go meals collecting fried noodles or fried rice to bring back to the office, or even Malay families from Shah Alam drop by to enjoy a communal meal. This version of Inchi Kabin isn't too loaded with spices but it's light, crispy golden batter will have you fighting with your friends for the last piece. On every table with a big group, a fish or even two, takes centrestage, to be eaten together with other dishes and rice. It's a long list of different kinds of fish like pomfret, siakap, grouper, cooked in your favourite style, whether it's steamed, deep fried or served in their signature assam curry. A testament to the assam curry's popularity is its appearance on all the tables including ours. As they usually serve a whole fish, go for the grouper fish meat (RM39 or RM13 per 100 grams) if you're a small group of diners. Assam Jawa Prawns gets the flavours right but needs to be cooked a little longer for the tamarind sauce to coat the prawns. The highlight is the mild spicy yet tangy curry that pairs beautifully with rice. Now I know why you're given a huge bowl filled with rice for you to add more and more to soak up the curry, which has a looser consistency. Inside the curry, vegetables like ladies' fingers and brinjal are also added together with beancurd puffs, although the brinjal needed more time to reach a softer texture. Sambal Petai Ikan Bilis (RM25 for a small portion) is a dish I would happily eat again and again. It's rare for stink beans to be paired with dry, fragrant prawn sambal (hae bee) as usually it's made with a wetter sambal with sliced onions. The final flourish for a contrast of textures came in the form of crispy ikan bilis slightly sweetened as a dash of sugar was added to make sure it maintained its crunchy texture. During the weekend, it's mainly families enjoying a communal meal. Inchi Kabin (RM20 for a small portion) will have my Penang friends screaming that it's not the real deal. It's not dark brown with the spices nor does it come with that Worcestershire-mustard sauce, everyone swears by. Yes, it may have a lighter hand with spices but judge it solely as a fried chicken and it will win you over with its light, crunchy batter with moist meat. It had us scrambling to finish every piece of chicken, together with the deep fried ginger cut into matchsticks. Assam Jawa Prawns (RM40 for a small portion) was a letdown for us though. as their style didn't quite infuse the prawns with the tamarind flavours. Even though they had a dark, sticky tamarind mixture, the prawns weren't fried long enough with the tamarind mixture, leaving it uncoated and mostly on the plate. Most of their diners seem to prefer the butter fried prawns instead, which look covered with the fine, crispy egg strands. The restaurant is within a commercial area where it's surrounded by factories and right across the main road, you will find AEON shopping mall. This place definitely warrants more visits, when I am around this area, as they also serve crabs, Rendang Chicken, Sambal Sotong and definitely repeat orders of that amazing Sambal Petai Ikan Bilis and Inchi Kabin. It also has an old school air to it, with the usage of a trolley to bring the dishes to your table, and the walls are peppered with faded photographs of their signature dishes that haven't changed much after 46 years. Parking is also a breeze during the weekends as most of the shoplots are offices with a few eateries that include the famous Nasi Kalut Jitra Mai. Restoran Penang Gulai, 37, Jalan Keluli Am7/Am, Section 7, Shah Alam. Open: 11.30am to 2.30pm (Monday to Sunday), 6pm to 9.30pm (Tuesday to Sunday). Tel: 03-33431979/ 010-9125323. Facebook: @penanggulai • This is an independent review where the writer paid for the meal. • Follow us on Instagram @eatdrinkmm for more food gems.
Time Out
2 days ago
- Time Out
8 Instagram-worthy installations you can't miss at Sentosa's Peranakan Reimagined
1. The Peranakan House Light Show Where Lookout Loop, Sensoryscape, adjacent to Imbiah Station (Sentosa Express) During the day, this intricate 7.2-metre-tall 'shophouse' draws the eye with its ornate design and vivid colours. But come sundown, it transforms into a dazzling five-minute light show, featuring dynamic projections that illuminate the rich textures of Peranakan life, from traditional motifs and architectural details to beloved dishes and customs. The experience unfolds beautifully as you stroll along Lookout Loop, revealing different angles of this cultural tribute with every step. Best viewed after 7.30pm, golden hour glow optional but recommended. Showtimes run from 7.30pm till 9.30pm, with a 15-minute interval. Time Out tip Bring a tripod and stick around for the full projection cycle – it's worth the wait. 2. Field of Beaded Bloom Where Tactile Trellis, Sensoryscape, near Imbiah Station (Sentosa Express) Tucked away in the lush foliage is this dreamy centrepiece: a pair of giant beaded slippers inspired by traditional Peranakan kasut manek. It's whimsical, colourful, and a great way for you to experience and feel the intricacy of Peranakan craftsmanship. Time Out tip Shoot from a low angle for maximum slipper drama. Bonus if you match your outfit to the beads. 3. Peranakan-Inspired Cable Cars Where Singapore Cable Car (Sentosa Line) To mark the Sentosa Line's 10th anniversary, its cabins now come dressed in colourful designs, ornate tiles and motifs reminiscent of Koon Seng Road's iconic shophouses. Time Out tip Enjoy a one-for-one round trip for two persons at $4 only. 4. Giant in Grace Where The Walkway, near Imbiah Station (Sentosa Express) Rest stops have never looked this good. Along The Walkway at the lower deck of Sensoryscape, nine larger-than-life Peranakan installations turn rest areas into vibrant photo spots and immersive cultural backdrops. Spot towering kamcheng jars, ornate teapot sets, stacked tiffin carriers, and intricately designed wedding baskets – each one celebrating the detailed craftsmanship of Peranakan culture. Keep your camera ready: shimmering sequin panels reveal hidden motifs when viewed through your lens, and some artworks even shift with your perspective. Time Out tip Try shooting with a wide-angle lens or through sunglasses for quirky refracted effects. 5. Mini Clay Kueh Workshop Where Level 1 Concourse, Siloso Point Station (Sentosa Cable Car - Sentosa Line) Get those hands working at this air-dry clay kueh workshop. Each beginner-friendly session shows you how to sculpt mini versions of beloved snacks like ang ku kueh, ondeh-ondeh and kueh dadar, then turn them into brooches or fridge magnets to take home as unique keepsakes. Book a session here. Time Out tip Take a flat lay photo of your creations next to the real deal for a fun side-by-side 'nailed it' moment. 6. Larger-than-life Tingkats Where Siloso Point Station (Singapore Cable Car - Sentosa Line) These aren't your everyday lunchboxes. Inspired by the tingkat collection at The Intan, these three giant towers – the tallest reaching 1.8 metres – are painted in cheerful blues and yellows. They're nostalgic and kind of irresistible to pose with. Time Out tip Snap a photo while peeking out from behind one like it's your secret snack stash. 7. Kebaya Showcase Where Sensoryscape Cable Car Station (Level 2) Four exquisite kebayas, four renowned local designers, one ultra-chic display. Curated with The Peranakan Association Singapore, this showcase spotlights modern interpretations of the iconic garment, from intricate lace to bold prints. The designers include Baba Raymond Wong (Rumah Kim Choo), Ratianah Tahir (Kebayas by Ratianah), Kavita Thulasidas (Stylemart), and Ada Goh (Batik Etsy). Time Out tip Frame your shot to contrast the traditional designs with the modern station backdrop. 8. Peranakan Dress-Up Where Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape, near Beach Station (Sentosa Express) After getting inspired at the kebaya exhibit, why not dress up? Rent a beautifully crafted kebaya or batik shirt and strike a pose. Prices start from $32 for children and $40 for adults, with picture-perfect fabric that'll make your selfies pop. Time Out tip Match with your crew for a coordinated family or friends photo. Then strut down Sensoryscape like it's your runway. Whether you're in it for the 'gram, the glow-up, or the culture crash course, Peranakan Reimagined is where old meets bold in the most photogenic way. Charge up your phone, grab your camera crew, and hit the trail. Explore the full map and programmes here.
Time Out
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
This luxury hotel has themed family suites with slides – here's what we think
What do Bruno Mars, Ayumi Hamasaki, and I have in common? We've all stayed at Mandarin Oriental Singapore – though I'm fairly sure I was the only one flinging myself down a jungle-themed slide here. Fresh from a six-month revamp, this Marina Bay icon is looking exceptional than ever. Gone are the old beige tones, replaced with pink-and-green palettes inspired by Singapore's Garden City charm, plush interiors drawing from Peranakan heritage, art commissioned by local and regional creatives, and a sophisticated new look that still retains its luxurious roots. Add to that some of the best service in town and you've got a hotel that nails both polish and personality. Why stay at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore? Since 1987, MO Singapore (formerly The Oriental Singapore) has been making guests feel like a VIP before even hitting the check-in desk, from the warm greetings by staff to the plush interiors that smell faintly of fresh flowers and quiet opulence. Whether you're here for a romantic weekend, a luxe city staycay, or – like me – a family-friendly getaway with all the trimmings, MO Singapore doesn't disappoint. It's got the vibe of a resort, the heart of a five-star hotel, and the location of your urban dreams. And if you're looking to explore the city in style, it has just the thing for you. One of the hotel's biggest flexes is the Porsche Drive Experience, where guests can book a sleek electric Porsche for up to three hours. Whether you're cruising past the Singapore Flyer or just looping around Marina Bay, it's guaranteed to elevate your stay. What are the rooms like at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore? We checked into the Family Theme Suite, one of the property's most playful options. Choose from themes inspired by safari adventure, outer space, and underwater explorations – ours was decked out in leafy motifs, jungle animals, and a cuddly Mini MO mascot named Rajah lounging in the living room. The lion plushie also makes for a great keepsake and companion for the little one. The highlight? A solid, built-in bunk bed and slide combo that will keep the kids – and kidults – entertained. Word of warning, though: the slide is rather steep, so prepare for a fast descent. The beds, on the other hand, are roomy enough that adults under 1.6 metres like myself won't feel squished. Beyond the wow factor, the suite delivers maximum comfort: separate bedroom and lounge spaces, a balcony, two massive TVs, a washer-dryer, and a fully equipped kitchenette with an induction hob, microwave, dishwasher, and coffee machine. There are also two toilets with remote-controlled bidets, and a bathroom kitted out with a rainforest shower and a bathtub. Where to eat and drink at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore? Let's talk food, because this hotel takes dining very seriously. Embu, the vibrant all-day restaurant, was our go-to for breakfast and dinner buffets. No matter the mealtime, there's a lavish spread featuring premium seafood, Indian and Asian specialities, wood-fired pizzas, barbecue delights, homemade desserts, and even a kids' buffet corner curated for small bellies. There are also live cooking stations for fried eggs, freshly rolled popiah, carrot cake and more made on the spot. Step out onto the lush outdoor patio for a spot of al fresco dining. There's even a small playground nearby, so you can keep an eye on the little one while you tuck into your meal. The restaurant also runs the MO Junior Chef Masterclass, a complimentary experience for hotel guests. My toddler proudly donned a chef's hat and got hands-on assembling a few kueh pie tee, which we happily devoured together. It's a fun touch that the kids will enjoy. If you're in the mood to venture further, the hotel's 10 dining concepts include the award-winning MO Bar, Cantonese fine dining at Cherry Garden, waterfront Italian at Dolce Vita, and Zuicho, a high-end Japanese kappo experience helmed by Michelin-starred chef Kenji Takahashi. What are the facilities like at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore? You could easily spend all day at the 25-metre outdoor pool. There's a main pool for proper swimming, a shallow kiddy pool with bubble jets, and a lounge pool with built-in daybeds perfect for a relaxing soak under the sun. If you'd rather stay dry, kick back on the sun beds or retreat to one of the private cabanas for a dose of poolside peace. With stunning views of the Marina Bay skyline, the deck also doubles as a prime fireworks vantage point – we happened to be swimming during the National Day rehearsal display, and the experience was nothing short of magical. The spacious gym is equally impressive, stocked with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment and offering outdoor sunrise yoga, core workouts and more on the outdoor patio. There's also a serene spa, complete with six treatment rooms and wellness therapies that run the gamut from massages to manicures. What's the area like around Mandarin Oriental, Singapore? The hotel puts you right in the heart of the city, on the Marina Bay waterfront and a short walk to Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Suntec City, Millenia Walk, and Gardens by the Bay. You're within jogging distance of the Merlion, a quick Grab ride from Orchard Road, and practically sitting on the F1 night race track when September rolls around. Why you should book a stay at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore? If you're after five-star comfort with a side of thoughtful whimsy, Mandarin Oriental hits the sweet spot. From luxe design and impeccable service to the family-first details, this city-centre hotel delivers a polished yet playful experience. But what truly sets MO Singapore apart is its people – the service is warm, intuitive, and always one step ahead. It's luxury without the stiffness. Whether you're travelling with tots, planning a romantic getaway, or just in the mood to pamper yourself (and maybe test drive a Porsche), this is easily one of the most exciting stays in the city. And one thing's for sure: you'll be planning your return before checkout.
The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
From legacy to lifestyle resort
Malaysia's first M Social hotel marks new chapter in Penang hospitality A STROLL into M Social Resort Penang reveals a blend of thoughtful design and relaxed island charm, where bold colours, Peranakan touches and modern features come together in a welcoming space. Tucked away in the quiet enclave of Tanjung Bungah on Penang's northern coast, this lifestyle-focused resort is Malaysia's first M Social property and a refreshing addition to the local hospitality landscape. But beneath the playful exterior lies a carefully considered transformation. Bathrooms featuring Peranakan-inspired tiles add a touch of local heritage to the modern design. Formerly the Copthorne Orchid Hotel Penang, the property has been reborn under Millennium Hotels and Resorts' (MHR) fastest-growing lifestyle brand, M Social. The move is not just a rebranding, but a reflection of the group's evolving identity, said MHR global branding, marketing and loyalty vice- president Carolyn Wishnowski. 'The rebranding was driven by the strategic vision of our chairman, who wanted to evolve with the changing preferences of today's travellers,' she said in an interview with StarMetro. Heritage and modern charm With its Penang launch, M Social becomes the seventh property in the global portfolio, joining the ranks of trendsetting locations like Singapore, Paris (France), Phuket (Thailand), Suzhou (China), Auckland (New Zealand) and Times Square New York (the United States). 'We opened M Social Phuket last year, Penang this year, and we are set to open M Social Downtown New York in October, followed by Sunnyvale, Florida (also in the US) in the first quarter of 2026,' said Wishnowski. Rather than tear down and start anew, MHR made a deliberate decision to honour the property's legacy while injecting it with fresh energy. M Social's signature restaurant, Beast and Butterflies, offers both authentic Peranakan and international cuisines. For decades, the Copthorne was a part of Penang's hotel landscape and held sentimental value for the group's leadership. But, as Wishnowski explained, the time had come to realign with the future. 'We saw a unique opportunity to transform a hotel full of legacy and history into something fresh, design-forward and culturally immersive,' she said. Breezy Bites is a poolside space that offers snacks, games and music. 'It wasn't just a renovation; it was also a mindset shift. 'Guided by the brand's 'Live in the Moment' tagline, we wanted to transform it into something fresh and culturally immersive, but still grounded in the spirit of Penang,' she added. That shift is most apparent with the hotel's visual identity. As guests step into the resort's lobby, they are welcomed by murals that reflect Penang's unique blend of heritage and modern charm. Peranakan-inspired patterns and warm, inviting colours set the tone for the space. The Social Hub offers afternoon teas, cocktails and a sunlit setting for laid-back moments. Design elements featuring the dusky leaf monkey, local street-food favourites like char kuey teow as well as sunset-on-the-beach-inspired shades of rose pink, sea green and sky blue come together to highlight the island's culture and natural surroundings. These murals, hand-painted by Thai artist Mayuree Setsomboon of Elegant Art, add character to key areas of the hotel and offer a thoughtful nod to Penang's identity. Guests can unwind by the resort's scenic outdoor pool and soak in stunning sunset views. Wishnowski said each M Social property was guided by its own unique design motif – such as New York drawing inspiration from the city's iconic black-and-yellow taxis and Phuket embracing shades of green to reflect its natural landscape. 'What sets M Social Penang apart is its strong cultural integration and expressive design philosophy. 'In Penang, the palette celebrates the island's rich culture and food setting,' she said. Sweeping sea views from the poolside offer a relaxing coastal escape. — SHALINI RAVINDRAN/The Star This dynamic ethos also extends to the digital transformation within the hotel. M Social Resort Penang is Malaysia's first hotel with in-room artificial intelligence (AI) voice assistant Aiello, allowing guests to control room functions without lifting a finger. Wishnowski said it was also the first hotel in the country to exist in the metaverse, offering a digital twin in Decentraland. Wishnowski says what sets M Social Penang apart is its strong cultural integration and expressive design philosophy. A virtual hotel modelled after different M Social hotels around the world, it offers travellers a chance to explore virtually before visiting and potentially earning real-world rewards. 'Our most exciting addition is the metaverse. 'It is part of the M Social DNA where every property under this brand is represented there,' said Wishnowski. Even with all the modern trimmings, the human element remains at the heart of M Social Penang, she emphasised. 'Many of the resort's staff have stayed on from the Copthorne days. 'The transformation was more about adjusting mindsets and helping everyone see that while we are introducing a new brand, it's still familiar and easy to connect with,' she said. Home for new travellers Strategically located between the hills and the sea, Tanjung Bungah's setting is set to appeal to a growing demographic of young travellers. 'Tanjung Bungah is the ideal location. 'It offers a serene escape while still being near Batu Ferringhi and out of the busy flow of Gurney Drive,' Wishnowski explained. M Social Penang's appeal to younger, eco-conscious travellers is no accident. From glass water bottles and refillable bulk-sized amenities to pre-packed eco-friendly kits, the resort embeds sustainability into the guests' journey. A variety of light bites and signature drinks are served at Social Hub. 'We are speaking to a younger generation of travellers who care about how they travel,' said Wishnowski. 'Our sustainable approach, wellness offerings, and digital innovation set us apart.' Beyond physical expansion, M Social is also building deeper ties within local communities. 'We plan to collaborate with Penang's creative scene and up-and-coming local brands. 'It is about giving back and building something lasting together,' Wishnowski said. Ramli and his wife Noora Ashikin (at centre), joining Saurabh (second from left), Yeoh (fifth left), Leng Beng (sixth left) and other special guests during the grand launch of the resort in Tanjung Bungah. The group celebrated the resort's debut with a launch, marking a new chapter for Malaysia's hospitality scene. The opening was attended by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah. Also present were Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, MHR executive chairman Kwek Leng Beng, executive director Kwek Eik Sheng as well as interim chief operating officer and chief commercial officer Saurabh Prakash. The launch wrapped up with a soulful performance by multi-talented Chelsia Ng. Indulgence with local twist The hotel's 318 rooms are divided into two wings – Sunset Bay and Azure. The property caters to solo explorers, couples, families and long-stay guests alike, with rooms ranging from the stylishly cosy 32sq m Social Cosy Room to the 160sq m Social Grand Suite with sunset views. The dining and recreational offerings at M Social Resort Penang reflect local culture, creativity and connection. Beast and Butterflies, the signature restaurant, serves up playful interpretations of Penang favourites alongside international cuisine in a communal setting. A 24-hour gym enables the hotel's guests to work out at their convenience. The Social Hub offers afternoon teas and cocktails in a cosy and friendly space perfect for casual catch-ups. Breezy Bites, located poolside, features live music, light bites, interactive games and sunset views over the pool's mosaic floor that spells out 'M Social'. Beach access, smart TV, fast WiFi along with a 24-hour gym provide guests with a well-rounded mix of comfort, convenience and opportunities to unwind or stay active during their stay. For special occasions, the 482sq m Pinang Pavilion ballroom features a pillarless space to host weddings, conferences and everything in between. The Star readers can enjoy an exclusive offer by using the promo code STARxMSRP when booking through the Millennium Hotels website or the MyMillennium mobile app. The promotion includes a 5% discount on the Flexible Rate or Flexible Rate with Breakfast, a complimentary upgrade to the next room category (subject to availability), and 20% off food and beverage at the hotel's restaurants. This offer is valid for all room categories, with the booking period running until Aug 31, 2025, and the stay period valid until Dec 31, 2025. Standard hotel cancellation policies apply. For details and reservations, visit
