Mamma Mia!

If you are interested to watch the Mamma Mia London stage show, tickets are still available. There are only 200 seats available for the rest of the shows that run until Jan 4 (3pm) at Istana Budaya.

For details or to buy tickets, call the Axcess Hotline at 03-7711 5000; go online at www.axcess.com.my or visit any authorised Axcess ticket outlet. Hurry, as this is the last chance to watch the show!



Source: The Star.. Mamma Mia!

Shang Palace at The Shangri-la

While in Kuala Lumpur, if you would like to try authentic Chinese cuisine, why not head on over to Shang Palace at The Kuala Lumpur Shangri-la?

SHANG PALACE, Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur, 11, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur (Tel: 03-2074 3904). Business hours: Noon to 2.30pm (Monday to Saturday), 10.30am to 2.30pm (Sunday and public holidays), 6.30pm to 10.30pm (daily).

Opulent: The outlet’s interior mirrors the imperial courtyard in the Forbidden City as it was inspired by the splendour of the Qing Dynasty

Source: The Star..Chef introduces his signature dishes to outlet’s menu

The Podium @ Menara Hap Seng - Dine & Wine

From now until Feb 10, 2009, diners at any participating outlets at the Podium can enjoy up to 30% discount off a wide selection of food and beverages while at the same time have the opportunity to walk away with great giveaways from the Podium’s retail partners.

The Podium is a three-level lobby block in the newly refurbished Menara Hap Seng, which was formerly known as MUI Plaza. It consists of both lifestyle and commercial attractions that include 12 restaurants and cafes as well as a variety of retail outlets.

Chic: Chill out in the contemporary setting at Hakka Republic
Urban splendour: Al fresco dining at Elegant Inn at The Podium.

The good news is each receipt over RM30 will entitle the patron at the participating restaurant an entry to the Dine & Wine Lucky Draw. The first prize of the lucky draw will be a six-day/four-night holiday for two persons to Korea courtesy of Korean Tourism.

The second and third prize is a Maruman Conductor Driver courtesy of Transview Golf and a three-day/four-night stay in Langkawi courtesy of KAA Travel & Tour respectively.

There is an abundance of cash vouchers up for grabs, offering a variety of redemption ranging from cheongsam, massage, pewter and golf bag.

The Podium will also feature a live band performance on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 5.30pm to 8.30pm throughout its festive season extravaganza.

The Podium at Menara Hap Seng is located on Jalan P. Ramlee, next to the Hap Seng Star Mercedes-Benz showroom.

For details, you can call 03-2116 9333 or visit www.hapsenghomes.com

Source: The Star..Nothing boring about this building

Best Decorated Mall, Mid Valley Megamall

Mid Valley Megamall won the grand prize in the Best Decorated Mall contest for Christmas 2008 for the second consecutive year. If you would like to see it firsthand, head on over to Mid Valley Megamall whose decoration will be up until Jan 1.



Source: The Star

Buckle-up, Rear Seat Passengers

The Star reported that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and police will start issuing summonses from Jan 1 to all passengers for not wearing their rear seat belts.

Vehicle owners and passengers would be given a six-month grace period during which they would only be issued a compound of RM300 for not wearing their rear seat belts.

But from July 1, drivers and passengers caught not using their seat belts would have to pay a fine of up to RM2,000, serve up to one year’s jail or both under the Road Transport Act.

However, it is not mandatory for cars registered before Jan 1, 1995 to be retrofitted with rear seat belts as they do not have the rear anchorage points.

Other vehicles that are exempted from the ruling are commercial vehicles such as taxis and rental cars, large vehicles that can seat nine passengers or more and haulers that have a tonnage limit of more than 3.5 tonnes.

Proton, Perodua and Honda have signed a memorandum of understanding to retrofit rear seat belts in 227,000, 435,000 and 35,000 of their respective vehicles for free. So, what are you waiting for?

Source: The Star...Rear seat belt offenders face harsher penalty from July

Malacca - Malaysia's City of Lights

Malacca being recently awarded the Unesco World Heritage Site status is earning a new name as the ‘City Of Lights’.

If you were to take a slow drive through the city or a riverboat cruise down the Malacca River especially at sundown, you would be enchanted by the colourful lights in various parts of the city.

Bright eyes: The 60m Eye on Malaysia situated next to the Malacca River mouth is also decorated with stunning lights at night.
Majestic: The Straits Mosque (Masjid Selat) in Pulau Melaka decorated with colourful lights in the evening.
Famous street: The Jonker Street is decorated with red lights at night.

Source: The Star...Malacca: City of lights

The Avi Spa at Avillion Port Dickson

The Avi Spa at Avillion Port Dickson is probably the only floating spa in Malaysia, built above water, located at the very furthest of the resort on the Straits of Malacca. Port Dickson is a beach town to the south of Kuala Lumpur and is only about one and a half hours drive away.

The spa is divided into three venues – avi lounge; avi spa suites that offer seven luxury suites including two rooms for couples and a premium suite; and avi spa space.

Avi Spa is owned and managed by the Avillion Hotel Group.

Guests may choose to have a massage, scrub, wrap, bath, hair treatment, manicure or a facial. There’s also special “rituals” offered such as the “velvety batik” or “dondang sayang”.

The spa menu comes in three sections – signature, traditional and marine treatments. The signature treatments are mapped according to one of four moods (valour, ardour, lightness and poise) based on elements of nature: water, earth, wind and fire. They are 100% custom-made from pure essential oil blends and each of the oils are based on an emotion inspired by the four classical elements.

More details here..

Ritz-Carlton KL is the best in South East Asia

Accommodations are aplenty in Kuala Lumpur. We even have award-winners, the latest being Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur which recently won the South East Asia’s Hotel of the Year 2008-2010 under theHospitality Asia Platinum Awards (HAPA) - Regional Series.


The hotel was recognised for its commitment to excellence, flawless facilities and personalised care.

It was a finalist in five categories — Hotel of the Year, Signature Luxury Hotel, Signature Hotel Spa (Spa Village, Kuala Lumpur), Most Exquisite Palate Experience and Most Dynamic General Manager.

The evaluation process spanned eight months and included leading hotels in South East Asia.

Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur is located at 168, Jalan Imbi.

Source: The Star - KL hotel is the best in South East Asia

New Sepang LCCT International Arrival Hall

If you are a frequent flyer using the LCCT, you would be happy to know about the terminal being expanded to cater to increased passenger load. Even on non-peak times, the LCCT can be crowded as shown in the picture below..


According to The Star, THE new international arrival hall at the Low-Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) at Sepang in Selangor will open for operation on Dec 15, weeks ahead of its original scheduled date.

The hall is part of the RM160mil new wing constructed under the LCCT expansion plan.

The whole wing is also expected to be fully ready for operation earlier than the original completion date of March 15 next year. The extension adds another 32,000sq m of floor-space to the existing 28,000sq m available.


Check-in counters will be increased to 117 from 72 and will be able to handle a passenger load of 2200 passengers as opposed to the old number of 600. There will be six baggage carousels. Luggage pickup will be a less time-consuming affair for travellers.

Travellers can also expect more retail and food and beverage outlets. There will also be shower and surau facilities. The waiting area will also be increased to cater to 600 seats.

Besides the AirAsia domestic flights and the AirAsia X international services to Thailand, Indonesia and Australia, other airlines using the LCCT are the Cebu Pacific Airways of the Philippines and the Tiger Airways of Singapore.

In March next year, AirAsia X is scheduled to start operating the London Stansted-Kuala Lumpur route from the LCCT.

As for public transport, eight bus companies link the LCCT to Kuala Lumpur, Klang, Shah Alam, Seremban, Malacca, Ipoh and Genting. There are also ample taxi services.

Exciting times ahead for all.

Source: The Star

Kuala Lumpur Landslide - Bukit Antarabangsa

This time of the year is monsoon season when rainfall is frequent and at times furiously. To people who live in hillside residences, this incessant rainfall is worrisome as the soil underneath may become soft and could result in the soil or mud sliding.

At 4am this morning, there was a massive landslide at Bukit Antarabangsa, a hilly residential area in Kuala Lumpur. At time of writing, four deaths have been reported, 15 injured and more than 2000 people have been evacuated.

This site is some 1.5km away from a tower that collapsed on Dec 11, 1993, in which 48 people died.

Rescue efforts are underway.



The Star Photo Gallery

Kampong Boy Stamps

If you have been a fan of local cartoonist, Lat, and if you happen to be a stamp-collector, you may not want to miss this collection of Lat stamps.

Stamping his identity: Lat with the special stamps that feature his Kampung Boy cartoons.


From Dec 1, the 30sen and 50sen stamps will feature Kampung Boy and his depiction of Malaysian life.

Lat, whose real name is Datuk Mohamed Nor Khalid, said having his comics on the stamps was a great honour and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Stamp Week will be held from Dec 1 to 7 and the Lat stamps will be sold at Berjaya Times Square during the period.

Source: The Star

RM499 to fly to London

Who would have thought air travel could be so affordable. Air Asia has made it possible to fly from Kuala Lumpur to London at only RM499.

Malaysians flying to London will also pay RM499 for the return flight while travellers from London going to KLIA will pay £99 (RM541) for the return ticket.

Online bookings opened at 8pm Tuesday (Malaysian time) for the five-times-a-week direct flights which will be for the travel period between March 11 and Oct 24.

Fares start from as low as £99 (RM499) for economy seats and £549 (RM1,999) for XL seats – inclusive of airport taxes and charges.

The latest flights will use Airbus A340 planes which will have 286 economy and 30 premium seats.

Source: The Star..It’s RM499 to fly to London on AirAsia X

Yoga as an exercise is permissible

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Wednesday urged all quarters to understand the content of the yoga fatwa issued by the National Fatwa Council and not twist facts which could cause confusion among the public.

He said Muslims who performed yoga exercise and not chanting any mantra could carry on with their activity as it was good for their health.

More from The Star..Understand yoga fatwa, do not twist the facts: PM

Related stories:
Consider fatwa very carefully, says Nazrin
Jakarta won't follow move

No ban on alcohol sale in Selangor

The controversy over Selangor PAS’ proposal to ban the sale of alcoholic beverages at sundry shops and convenience stores in the state has ended with an announcement by Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim on Wednesday that there will be no such ban in the state.

More from The Star..

Hari Raya Haji on Dec 8

Hari Raya Haji will be on Dec 8, The Star reported today.

The Keeper of the Rulers Seal announced Thursday in a press statement that the date applied to all states in Malaysia.

Yoga has been banned in Malaysia for Muslims

If you are a visitor and a Muslim, and is making Malaysia your home, you may want to note that the National Islamic body has on Saturday, Nov 22, declared that yoga has been banned for Muslims as they fear that the practice which involves three elements of physical movements, worshipping and chanting might erode the faith of Muslims.

Full story: Fatwa Council says yoga with worshipping, chanting is prohibited (updated)

George Town and Malacca receive World Heritage Site Award

The Star reported that thousands of Malaysians and foreign tourists witnessed the official awarding of the Unesco World Heritage Site to George Town (Penang) and Malacca at a colourful ceremony at Dataran Merdeka last night.

The award arrived on an elephant and was passed to Unesco’s regional science bureau for Asia and the Pacific director Hubert J. Gijzen who then gave it to Education Minister Datuk Seri Hishammud-din Tun Hussein who is Malaysia’s Unesco national committee president. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, then received the award from Hishammuddin.



Read full article from The Star: George Town and Malacca receive World Heritage Site Award

In an earlier development on four high-rise hotels approved in Penang might cause it to lose it's World Heritage site status, it has been reported that City status not affected as the buildings had been approved as in compliance with guidelines of the World Heritage site status.

Penang may lose World Heritage site status if...

An artist’s impression of the Rice Miller boutique hotel which will be built in Weld Quay, George Town. It is one of four projects to be carried out in the island’s heritage zone, a move that could threaten Penang’s World Heritage Site listing.

Buildings like the above can be found in many parts of Malaysia, particularly in the Straits Settlement areas of coastal regions such as Penang, Pangkor, Malacca, (Singapore), the city of Kuala Lumpur, and holiday places . These are a legacy left behind by our British colonial forefathers.

Some of these buildings are still used as residences while others have been converted to mini-musuems, art galleries while some others have been destroyed and replaced with modern-day high-rises.

The Malaysian government places importance to these buildings and are retaining them as well as restoring the more significant ones.

The island of Penang, which played a key role in colonial times, have many buildings from that era. However, in the name of development, some of them have been replaced. Penang is right now in a bind over one of these buildings as it has been approved to be replaced by a high-rise hotel. Any structure above 18m or roughly 5-storys high, will render Penang as being not complying to the guidelines of the UNESCO World Heritage site. This could result in Penang's delisting.

Source: The Star

Drab Day In Kuala Lumpur

It's a drab day in Kuala Lumpur today. The sun is taking a break letting the rain take over. It is still raining just as I'm writing this.

The KL skyline is not a pretty sight as buildings are shrouded in mist with the rain still beating down.


Hopefully, tomorrow will be a better day. Looking forward to blue skies and sunshine again.

15 sen Reduction in Fuel Prices

The Star today reported that petrol and diesel prices have been slashed by a further 15 sen per litre from today.

The new pump price for RON97 is now RM2 per litre while RON92 will be sold at RM1.90 per litre. Diesel will be at RM1.90 per litre.

The latest price cut, the fifth since August, was made in line with falling global petroleum prices.

Yesterday’s price of a barrel of crude was about US$56.

In line with falling fuel prices, supermarkets and hypermarkets across the nation are also cutting down prices of many essential items.

Eye on Malaysia Launch in Malacca, Nov 7, 2008

The Eye on Malaysia which has been relocated from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca was officially launched last Friday, Nov 7.


Some 10,000 locals and tourists gathered at the Malacca rivermouth to witness the launch of the 60m brightly-lit Eye on Malaysia ferris wheel amid a fireworks display.

Local artistes including Ning Baizura and Mawi kept the crowd entertained as they waited to have a ride.

The Ferris wheel which has 42 air-conditioned gondolas would be the main attraction among three on the 1.6ha leisure park. A 30m by 60m water screen will be ready by December and a 4D space exhibition will be operational by February next year.

Source: The Star

Places to wine and dine in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is home to endless good places to wine and dine. Listed below are some of the best that The Star has picked.

Asian flavours

THE best of Asian food is being featured under the ongoing Asian Food Festival buffet promotion at Ancasa Hotel & Spa’s Saffron Brasserie. The promotion runs from Nov 17 to 28 and will feature Green Papaya Salad, Shredded Chicken with Chilli, Pickled Cabbage, Crabmeat Rolls and Sup Ekor. Countries to be highlighted include Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, South Korea, Sri Lanka and Thailand. For details, call 03-2026 6060.

Nuts galore

GO nuts over the Cuisine with Nuts month-long promotion at the Toh Lee Chinese Restaurant, Nikko Hotel Kuala Lumpur. There will be Sauteed Diced Fish Fillet with Pine Nuts, Stir-fried Diced Chicken with Walnuts, Stewed Duck with Chesnuts and Sichuan-style Sauteed Diced Prawn Meat with Macadamia Nuts to satisfy your palate. For reservations, call 03-2782 6128.

Cheesy delight

CAKE of the month at the Eastin Hotel is the Hokkaido Cheesecake. Each luscious slice is guaranteed to satiate the sugar cravings of cheesecake lovers. Or, why not purchase or order a whole cake to be enjoyed with friends and family. The cake is priced at RM75++ per kg or RM7.50++ per slice. For orders, call 03-7665 1111.

TO DINE FOR FINE THAI CUISINE, Lot B1-A, Chulan Square, 92 Jalan Raja Chulan, KL (Tel: 03-2145 1708). Business Hrs: Daily, lunch (noon-3pm); dinner (6pm-10.30pm). Pork-free. Serves traditional Thai fare like Tom Yam, Stir-fried Prawn with Black Pepper Sauce and Chicken Stir-fried with Sweet Sauce.

SPICE GARDEN IMPERIAL, 205 Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL (Tel: 03-2142 2220 /2223). Business Hrs: Restaurant — Daily (11am-midnight). Tandoor food and speciality drink Jal Jeera, which is a mix of soda and 65 Indian herbs and spices, should initiate your visit here. Has live entertainment daily. Set lunches RM20-RM22.

CHUTNEY MARY RESTAURANT AND BAR, 21-G Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar, KL (Tel: 03-2282 9923). Business Hrs: Daily (11am-1am). Halal. Northern Indian cuisine with a smattering of Western and local dishes. House specials are Khairi Chicken Special, Chicken Noor Jahani Biryani and Kulfi.

U RESTAURANT, 69 Jalan Bangkung, Off Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya, Bangsar, KL (Tel: 03-2093 1268). Business Hrs: Daily, lunch (11.30am-3pm); dinner (6pm-late). Halal. Uses the “Omakase Kaiseki” concept where chefs decide on how to cook and present the ingredients.

BIBIWOK RESTAURANT, 16, Jalan Persiaran Puteri 1, Bandar Puteri, Puchong (Tel:03-8060 7659). Business Hrs: Daily, lunch (11am-3pm); dinner (5.30pm-10.30pm). Pork-free. Specials include Ayam Api-Api, Thai-style Butter Prawn, Siamese Steamed Red Snapper and Curry Seafood Combo.

RESTORAN PRECIOUS, M2 Mezzanine Floor, Central Market, KL (Tel: 03-2273 7372). Business Hrs: Daily (11am-10.30pm). Pork-free. Malacca-born chef John Locke whips up Nyonya specialities and innovative dishes like Crispy Pomfret and Hangzhou-style Duck, upon a day’s notice. Ornate interior filled with antiques is great for entertaining.

CANTON-i RESTAURANT, G-208, Ground Floor, 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya (Tel: 03-7729 7888). Business hours: 11am to 10pm, Monday to Saturday; 10.30am to 10pm on Sunday. Serves Hong Kong cuisine like Char Siew, Roasted Pork Belly, Roasted Duck and Wanton Noodles with essential ingredients from Hong Kong.

PARKVIEW CHINESE CUISINE, 1F-01, The Waterfront @ Parkcity, No 5, Persiaran Residen, Desa Parkcity, Kuala Lumpur (Tel: 03-6280 7766). Business Hrs: Daily; Mon-Sat, lunch (11.30am-3pm), dinner (6pm-10.30pm). Sundays & public hols, (9am-3pm), dinner (6pm-10.30pm). Non-halal. Dim sum is the favourite for lunch on weekdays with classic favourites like Barbecued Pork Buns, Baked Egg Tarts, Deep-fried Fresh Prawn Balls and Siew Mai. Other offerings are the Australian Lobsters Stir-fried with Ginseng, Toong Sing Garoupa in Two Styles, Homemade Beancurd with Spinach and Egg and Thai-style Fried Meehoon with Glass Noodles.

RESTORAN FORTUNA PALACE, 17 & 20, Jalan ½, Taman Kajang Prima, Jalan Semenyih, Kajang (Tel: 03-8739 3388). Business Hrs: Daily; lunch (10.30am-2.45pm), dinner (5.30pm-10.45pm). Non-halal. The outlet’s interior has a touch of Japanese’s minimalist style. It serves Chinese food with local and imported seafood.

IZZI, 44-2A, 44-3A & 44-4A Jalan Sultan Ismail, KL (Tel: 03-2141 5808). Business Hrs: Mon-Sun (11am-11pm); Fri & Sat (7am-2am). Pork-free. WiFi-able & free valet parking. A casual dining restaurant chain founded in Indonesia. Known for its Italian and Asian cuisine with French-influenced desserts and pastries. Izzi is spread across three floors overlooking the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

RIGHT 4 U CAFÉ, 27 Jalan SS22/19, Damansara Jaya, PJ (Tel: 03-7726 5527). Business Hrs: Daily (11am-1am). Pork-free. Serves local and Western cuisines and recommends food right for your blood type.

SALOMA THEATRE RESTAURANT, Malaysia Tourism Centre (MTC), 139 Jalan Ampang, KL (Tel: 03-2161 0122). Business Hrs: Daily (11am-midnight); dinner with cultural show (7.30pm-10.30pm). Showtime (8.30pm-9.30pm). Halal. For a touch of filmdom, some dishes have been named after evergreen Malaysian movies. Specials are Air Jando Pulang, Sup Tulang, and Daging Dendeng.

ANTONIO’S TRATTORIA CALABRIA, 32A, Jalan Wan Kadir 4, Off Jalan Damansara,Taman Tun Dr.Ismail, KL Tel:03-77254164. Business Hrs: Daily; lunch (11am-3pm), dinner (6pm-11pm). Pork free. A cozy Italian restaurant where the food is elegant in taste and the atmosphere friendly and casual. Famous for home-made thin crust pizzas, pasta and tiramisu.Set Lunch from Monday to Friday at RM12.90 nett.

Air Asia offers 500,000 free seats & no fuel surcharge

Are you due for a holiday next year between June and October? If you are, why not pick an Air Asia destination and make your booking for a free seat today.

Free-seat booking is open from today up to Sunday, and you do not have to pay fuel surcharge anymore as Air Asia has cancelled fuel surcharge for the moment. There are 500,000 free seats up for grabs.

For full story, read The Star's AirAsia does away with fuel fees on all flights

How to book your free seat? You can go online at airasia.com or call their hotline which I would not advise as you can be put on hold for some thirty minutes listening to their rambling advertisements.

Alternatively, you could go to their AirAsia booking office at the Kuala Lumpur Sentral station in Brickfields.

Yet another alternative is , you could book at any AirAsia ticketing agents but they are few and far between.

A last but very reliable alternative if you are in the Klang Valley is, you can call the ticketing agent that my friends use. He is Mr. Lim and he can be reached at (603)62767233 - office / (6)012 6597039. (No, I do not get any commission from this recommendation. He does not even know that I am putting his contacts here. His service is highly commendable according to my friends.)

Penang's 2nd Bridge

Construction has begun on the 16.37km sea portion of the 23km-long second Penang Bridge which will have a middle cable stayed span much like the present Penang Bridge.

The two viewing platforms that formed the “pearl” in the original design have been scrapped.

Traffic jams that occur almost daily during peak hours would hopefully be reduced when this second bridge is ready.

Below is an artist's impression showing how the second Penang Bridge will look now that the viewing platforms in the original design have been scrapped. Work on the new bridge, which will look like the existing Penang Bridge, began yesterday. It is scheduled for completion in 2011.



Source: The Star

Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur

Welcome to Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur. Below is a typical scene when you visit Chinatown - a foreign national manning the stall serving foreign tourists.

Chinatown is a hive of activity any time of the day or night. A visit to Kuala Lumpur is not considered complete without a visit to Chinatown, Petaling Street in particular.

Chinatown has some of the best and authentic Chinese food available. You can find KL's best Hokkien fried noodle, best roast duck, best soya bean drink, and more. A common sight I delight in is of visitors (Caucasians mostly) hanging out having a beer or two soaking in the sights and sounds of Chinatown.


Baunach Ulrich and his wife (above) from Germany said they were fine with foreign workers selling the merchandise, but were not in favour of the cramped placements of stalls. Fortunately, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has shelved a plan to add 94 new stalls at Petaling Street following strong objections from traders who find it increasingly difficult to do business in the area.

Another visitor, Lindy from Australia likes "the atmosphere here - red lanterns, haggling, good food - and I can shop cheaply, it doesn’t really matter if those who man the stalls are foreign workers."

Come, let me take you to Chinatown - through a video. The place is shown in daylight. It never used to be that busy during the day as business only begins at nightfall when the street is closed to auto traffic. These days (since the last few years), business starts early, as early as ten-ish.

Welcome to Kuala Lumpur. Welcome to Chinatown!


Here's a map of Chinatown

View Larger Map

Source...The Star
Tourists have no qualms about Petaling Street’s image
DBKL: No new stalls in Chinatown

Carlsberg Football Web-TV

Wow! The Internet is sure getting better and better. We can now watch football on a dedicated channel.

Yes, Carlsberg has just launched its very own Web-TV channel on football. The www.partofthegame.tv site has five different channels showing everything about football. Everything a football fan loves and loves to see about football can be seen on this Carlsberg web-tv football channel. If you have missed a classic football game and would like to play catch-up, you can now do that. Just go to your favourite video clip and either be in the know or relive your sweet football memories watching your favourite team winning that trophy or that important match.

By the way, there is an added feature to this web-tv channel. You can even upload your own favorite football moments into your very own compilation of your favorite video clips.

Carlsberg web-tv : Partofthegame.tv : Football : web tv - the best channel yet for any football fan.

Breast Cancer Awareness

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and pink is the colour. The Kuala Lumpur Tower in partnership with Estee Lauder Companies will be illuminating the tower in bright pink lights for two weeks from Oct 14 to 31.


The illumination of KL Tower is an important landmark in creating awareness of breast cancer and early detection. The illumination in Malaysia is part of the Estee Lauder Global Landmarks Illumination Initiative.

It is the brainchild of Evelyn Lauder to focus attention and spread awareness about breast cancer and the message of early detection saving lives.

“The Estee Lauder Companies 2008 BCA campaign message is ‘World Pink, World Without Breast Cancer. Wear a Pink Ribbon. Make a difference’.

The illumination is in its 9th year with hundreds of famous buildings, monuments and landmarks glowing in pink in over 50 countries around the world.

Information counters will be set up at Estee Lauder brands in Malaysia- Aramis, Bobbi Brown, Beauty Bank, Clinique, Estee Lauder, Donna Karan, Tommy Hilfiger, La Mer, Lab Series Skincare for Men, origins, and Sean John Fragrances - and pink ribbons and flyers on breast cancer will be handed out to create awareness.

Source: The Star

MPH Warehouse Book Sale

If you are a book-lover and are in Kuala Lumpur, you may want to head on over to the MPH book sale.

MPH Distributors Warehouse Sale will be held from Oct 22 to 27 from 9am to 7pm at Bangunan TH, No 5, Jalan Bersatu, Section 13/4, Petaling Jaya. Thousands of books available with up to 60% discounts. For details, call 03-7958 1688.

Conference of airlines and airports

THE 14th World Route Development Forum (Routes), which was held in Malaysia for the first time, ended on Tuesday. It was held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

The made history of sorts because Malaysia became the first country outside Europe to host the forum since its inception.

More than 1,000 airline and airport representative converged at the largest airport conference with more than 30,000 meetings taking place over the three days.

Next year's forum will be held in China.

No More Jalan Alor

ONE of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular hawker hotspots has got to be Jalan Alor. Like it or not, its name has always been associated with food. Tourists and locals alike are familiar with this famous street located right in the heart of the part of the city known as the Golden Triangle.

However, that name was changed early this week by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to Jalan Kejora, leaving many traders and residents furious at the move.

Read article...Jalan Alor folk unhappy with name change - The Star

Vietnamese Food

If you are one who enjoys trying out different cuisines and are looking to try some Vietnamese food, there is an eatery in Puchong, Kuala Lumpur, that serves authentic Vietnamese food. The place is Hòa Vietnam Noodles.

Their food is more southern Vietnamese as one of the two partners hails from Vungtau, 120km south of Ho Chih Minh City. She personally trains the cooks to prepare food to her standards.

HÒA VIETNAM NOODLES
23 Jalan Puteri 5/7
Bandar Puteri
Puchong, Selangor
Tel: 03-8062 8322/019-4181 388

Hòa Vietnam Noodles is open daily from 11.30am to 10.30pm on weekdays and from 10.30am on weekends. It is closed every second and fourth Monday of the month.

Malaysia My 2nd Home (MM2H)

If you are not a resident here and are perhaps contemplating moving to stay elsewhere, Malaysia would be a great country to consider. This article from The Star features some real reasons why expatriates chose Malaysia as their retirement home. The MM2H or Malaysia My 2nd Home is what you would want to check out.

Let me share some of the reasons given on the choice of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, in particular:

KUALA LUMPUR is becoming the top choice for foreigners wanting to live in the country under the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme.

Due to some changes in the rules, the British and Japanese are now among the top nationalities applying for the MM2H visa. Previously, about four years ago, applications from China and Bangladesh topped the list

“Even though some people spoke English in Hungary or Thailand, I would still need an interpreter if I needed something done in the apartment, like if I were to hire a plumber. In Malaysia, there’s never been an issue,”

“Coming here is like coming home. I could find things in the shops here that I would in Britain, silly little things like ginger biscuits which I couldn’t get in Thailand,”

Raymond said although the cost of living in KL was not as low as it used to be, there were some things he could enjoy here which he would not be able to do in Britain.

“I could just go out to the mamak stall to get a roti telur or tosai for very little because the cost of food is cheaper here,” he said.

“We decided to stay in KL because it’s the city centre and more people spoke English,”


There you have it. Pick Malaysia.

Source: The Star

Sunset over Kuala Lumpur

This shot was taken last week at sunset over Kuala Lumpur. Some days, the sun sets in this shade amidst a hazy sky.

Hari Raya Open House

Today is the first day of Hari Raya Aidil Fitri. Hari Raya is a time of forgiveness and strengthening of ties. In the true spirit of Hari Raya, Open houses are normally held by dignatories open to everyone. If you would like to join in the spirit of goodwill and comraderie and experience an Open house, why not head on over to any of these Open Houses as listed below.



To all who celebrate Hari Raya, let me wish you and your loved ones A Selamat Hari Raya.

Expo on business opportunities and living options in Malaysia - Sept 20 & 21

If you are a Malaysian and have foreign friends who are interested in making Malaysia their second home or if you are a foreigner and a business person and would like to do business in Malaysia, this Expat Expo 2008 is for you. Organised by the Expat Group at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre at Suria KLCC, it will be helld on Sept 20 and 21.

The two-day expo will give tourists and visitors insight on the opportunities of staying and doing business in Malaysia and information on the Malaysia My Second Home Programme, an endeavour spearheaded by Tourism Malaysia.

The Expat Expo 2008 presents an ideal stage for interested parties to interact with Malaysian businesses, and for businesses to showcase the various facilities and services available to existing, incoming, and potential members of the expatriate community.

Make a date and head on over there to have your questions answered.

Source: The Star...Expo on business opportunities and living options in Malaysia

Citarasa Ramadhan Buffet - Bukit Kiara Golf Club

Here is another recommendation for Ramadhan Buffet for breaking fast.

With the escalating prices of almost everything, it is indeed surprising that one can still find a sumptuous buffet at an incredible price of RM42.90 nett per adult and RM16.50 nett per child aged between four and 12 years old. Considering its wide spread and variety, this Citarasa Ramadhan Buffet is value for money.

Available until Sept 27, the buffet spread at the Garden Terrace of Kelab Golf Perkhidmatan Awam (KGPA) in Bukit Kiara will boast up to 150 local favourites, ranging from appetisers, main courses and desserts to beverages.

The main highlight of this promotion is the Whole Roasted Lamb which is from New Zealand. The lamb is marinated for a day before it is roasted over a charcoal fire.

Local Malay dishes include Sup Tulang, Daging Salai Masak Lemak, Ketam Lada Hitam, Daging Tetel Masak Asam Pedas, Sambal Goreng Jawa, Siput Masak Lemak, Ikan Kembung Rebus Dengan Air Asam.

Aside from the Malay must-have dishes during the holy month, the buffet also caters for all taste buds with an array of Chinese, Indian and other Asian cuisines.

Chinese dishes include Orh Jien (Oyster omelette), Lok-lok (steamboat) and Char Kuey Teow, to name a few.

Indian dishes include favourites like Roti Canai, Murtabak and Tosai.

If you are planning on a family or group outing, you may want to get their group discount vouchers which are sold at RM429 nett per booklet of 10 vouchers, with an additional two vouchers given for free.

Each voucher bearer can enter a lucky draw on Sept 27 to win prizes such as 32” LCD TV, mobile phone, digital camera, golf resort stay and hampers.

For details or reservations, contact:
GARDEN TERRACE, Kelab Golf Perkhid­matan Awam Malaysia, Bukit Kiara, Off Jalan Damansara, 60000 Kuala Lumpur (Tel: 03-7955 1216 / 7956 0122; Fax: 03-7955 0214). The Citarasa Ramadan Buffet is available from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.

Source: The Star...Citarasa Ramadhan Buffet

A&W Special combo for Ramadan

What comes to mind when you think of A&W? Coney Dog and root beer, right? These are still available, of course, but this Ramadan, the fast food restaurant chain is introducing something different. It's their latest combo offering, dubbed the A&W Citarasa Ramadan.

The combo comprises two dishes specially prepared for the whole of September. The first item of the combo is a rice dish, with accompaniments of kurma (dates), salad, masak lemak daging salai (beef), and a regular mug of their famous Root Beer.

Cooked with herbs and spices, the masak lemak daging salai is hygienically prepared to ensure its fresh and authentic taste. Spicy gravy is drizzled over the rice to give it the added oomph.

This dish is priced at RM7.50.

If you would like something extra you can order the combo’s second dish — the Chicken Satay.

The serving of four sticks of satay comes with sides like French fries, cucumber, and peanut gravy.

If you order the main rice dish, you can have this Chicken Satay for a top-up price of RM4.70.

The Chicken Satay alone as an ala carte dish is at RM5.30.

Both dishes are available throughout the day, including Buka and Sahur.

Source: The Star...Special combo for Ramadan

Break fast on Cruise Tasik Putrajaya

Why not this fasting month, break fast with a difference. Break fast on a Cruise Tasik Putrajaya. You have a choice of two dining experiences. The Ramadan Al-Mubarak Berbuka Puasa packages are designed to offer guests an outing unlike any other.

Shangri-La Putrajaya is the one catering to the dining cruise on the Putrajaya Lake while Koperasi Kakitangan Petronas Berhad (Kopetro) caters to the lakeside dining.

The 90-minute onboard dining package offers fine dining and buffet options. There is enough room for 60 guests for buka puasa.

The Cruise Dome 1 and Dome 2 fine-dining packages are priced at RM140 nett and RM145 nett respectively, with the buffets at RM165 nett and RM170 nett. Bookings are available, with three days advance notice required.

The other option is the Lakeside Hawker buffet which features stalls and is open daily from Sept 6 to 26. The buffet is priced at RM98 nett and includes a 20-minute sightseeing cruise.


For details or reservations, contact: CRUISE TASIK PUTRAJAYA Putra Jetty, Putra Bridge, Precinct 1, Putrajaya (Tel: 03-8888 5539).

Source: The Star...Packages offer a cruise with your meal

AirAsia giving away One Million Free Seats

Are you planning a holiday for next year between April and July? Then, there is great news for you.

AirAsia is giving away One Million Free Seats for travel from 1 April to 31 July to a whole lot of destinations including Bangkok, Bali, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh, Phuket, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Perth, Melbourne, Macau, Siem Reap, Guangzhou, Guilin, and many more. Check out AirAsia site for more details.

Hurry! Booking window is only until 31 August.

Dim Sum for Lunch

There is no denying that Malaysia is such a paradise where food is concerned. At every turn and corner, you will be able to find food at any time of the day or night.

Malaysia being a multi-racial, multi-cultural society, one can find all types of cuisines to satisfy one's tastebuds. There is the Malay fare, Chinese food, Northern and Southern Indian fare, Western food, Italian, even Middle-Eastern fare. You name it, really.

For this post, I would like to touch on a popular Chinese food called Dim sum. Wikipedia says:

The Cantonese phrase dim sum (點心) means literally "touch the heart" or "order to your heart's content". It may be derived from yat dim sum yi (一點心意), meaning "a little token". ("A Touch of Heart" is perhaps the more poetic translation.)

Dim sum involves a wide range of light dishes served alongside Chinese tea. It is usually served in the mornings until noon time at Chinese restaurants (including those in hotels) and at specialty dim sum eateries where typical dishes are available throughout the day.

Dim sum dishes come in small portions and may include meat, seafood, and vegetables, as well as desserts and fruit. The items are usually served in a small steamer basket or on a small plate.

In Malaysia, there are restaurants in hotels serving Dim sum catering to Muslims. The Dim sum dishes served are pork-free. One such restaurant in Kuala Lumpur is the Chinese restaurant in Novotel Hydro Majestic Kuala Lumpur.

For Muslims, this is a must-try and for visitors looking for Chinese cuisine, why not give Dim sum a try. I have included the restaurant flyer below for your easy reference. Click on image to enlarge it.

Bon appetit!

The English Afternoon Tea

Malaysia was under British colonial rule so it is no surprise that Malaysians still adopt some British customs, such as the English Afternoon Tea.

Not many hotels here serve the English Afternoon Tea. However, Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur does. Located at the hotel lobby, the Conservatory, is a cosy and comfortable setting for the occasion. Theirs is more than the regular English tea but a fusion of Eastern and Western flavours.

Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur is located along Jalan Bukit Bintang, the stretch referred to as Bintang Walk. Its neighbours include The Pavilion, Lot 10, Starhill The Westin Kuala Lumpur and JW Marriot hotel among others.

New Kajang-Seremban Highway stretch toll-free until Oct 4

If you are one who use the Kajang-Seremban Highway stretch from Kajang Selatan to Pajam, you will be happy to know that it will be open from 6am today to the public and will be free of charge until Oct 4.

“Road users will be able to use the highway for free during the coming Hari Raya festive season,” Works Minister Datuk Mohd Zin Mohamed said while opening the highway toll plaza here yesterday.

It is believed that a toll-rate of RM2.80 had been proposed to the Cabinet.

Source...The Star

Petrol price down by 15 sen

The Government has lowered fuel prices. The new price of RON97 petrol is RM2.55 a litre, down 15 sen, while RON92 will now be RM2.40 a litre, a 22 sen reduction. The new price of diesel is RM2.50 a litre, a reduction of 8 sen. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said the reduction in fuel prices is to help ease the people's burden while Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad said the move is to cut back rising inflation.

Continue reading...The Star...Petrol price down by 15 sen

New regulation for China travel

If you are travelling to China or if you are a frequent traveller to China, this information is for you.

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has released a new regulation which takes effect immediately. This is to ensure flight security.

1. No lithium battery products in passenger's check-in luggage.

2. Passengers allowed to carry onboard consumer electronics and appliance installed with lithium battery for personal usage, including watch, calculator, camera, video camera, laptop, mobile phone, etc. Each passenger can bring no more than two pieces backup battery with proper packing and short-cut protection.

Reduction in Fuel Price

Malaysians are hopeful that the fuel price will be reduced but Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said the Government would stick to its decision to announce the new prices on Aug 31, to be enforced on Sept 1.

He said pump prices would hopefully be reduced, due to the falling global crude oil price. However, should the world crude oil price increase, the pump price would not go beyond the current RM2.70 per liter for petrol and RM2.58 per liter for diesel.

New way to claim fuel rebates

KUALA LUMPUR: Vehicle owners can now claim fuel cash rebates through Malaysia’s leading e-Government Services Concessionaire, MY E.G. Services Bhd (MYEG) at their online portal – www.myeg.com.my.

MYEG executive chairman Datuk Dr Norraesah Mohamad said Pos Malaysia Bhd would first verify the claim before making payment to the eligible vehicle owners through money order within seven working days, or credit the amount into their bank account within three working days.

“Vehicle owners can check the status of their fuel cash rebates at any point of time through MYEG’s portal,” he said, adding that eligible vehicle owners could now renew their road tax and submit fuel cash rebates claims simultaneously using the online channel.

He added that the new service was an extension of their newly launched online road tax renewal service in April.

In June, the Government announced the payment of fuel cash rebates to reduce the impact of higher fuel prices.

Eligible vehicle owners are currently claiming their fuel cash rebates of up to RM625 from the 683 post offices nationwide or through Pos Malaysia’s portal at www.posonline.com.my.

Source: The Star

Government to install RM50mil surveillance system

In a bid to curb crime, the government is planning to install 480 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. These cameras would monitor public areas such as pedestrian walkways and parks.

These cameras to be installed by year’s end are intended to fight crime in dense urban areas such as Bukit Bintang, George Town, Ipoh and Seremban. The entire system including personnel and surveillance centres to monitor the CCTV footage would cost about RM50mil.

It would be manned by personnel from the ministry, police and local municipal councils.

The private sector is urged to intensify efforts to install CCTVs in their indoor areas, while the Government would put up cameras outdoors.

Source: The Star

Beijing Airport Update / Malaysian Visa Upon Arrival abolished

During the opening ceremony of the Olympics, Beijing Capital International Airport will be shut down. It also announced that flights will be suspended during the opening ceremony. Even the Beijing Nanyuan airport would also be subject to flight suspensions. No flights would be allowed to take off or land at both airports from 7:00pm to midnight on 8 August 2008.

And on the Malaysian front, with immediate effect, the Malaysian government has abolished the Visa On Arrival (VOA) for 27 countries, who had enjoyed the facilities previously. The countries include India, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Pakistan and most nationalities from Africa.

This would mean that citizens of affected countries would require a proper visa from the Malaysian mission from their respective countries. However, visitors from P.R. China are still eligible and may obtain a fourteen-day (14) Social Visa upon arrival, with a fee of RM100, return/onwards ticket and sufficient funds.

A Book on Malaysia

Are you planning to visit Malaysia and need to know what to expect? Or probably you are a Malaysian and are looking for a reference book on Malaysia?

There is just the book I can recommend. It is a newly-published book complete with all aspects of Malaysia anyone looking for information on Malaysia would need.

The book is titled "50+1 Malaysia". In it, you will find information on the Malaysian culture, the local lingo, the food available here, places to visit, events to attend, famous Malaysian personalities and lots more.

For a limited time only, the book is being offered online for a mere RM19.90, usual price being RM51/-. For the amount of information in it, this sale price is indeed a steal. I have got my copy, don't delay, get yours for this great value price!

Read the review of 50+1 Malaysia and order a copy here.

The Haze is back

Yes, the haze is back. It's that time of the year again. It's the dry spell, the haze is coming back and the number of hotspots in Sumatra has jumped from 351 to 531 within 24 hours.

To make things worse, a 40ha peat forest in Dengkil has been burning for the last two days. And the weather is expected to stay dry for the next three days.

However, airport authorities assured that the fire had not affected airport operations and visibility was fine.



Read The Star...531 hotspots in Sumatra, 40ha burning in Dengkil

Iranian Food in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia is a popular tourist destination all year round and especially so in the summer months from June right up to September. This is the time in which the middle-easterners make Malaysia their holiday playground.

Malaysia indeed has lots to offer the tourist, beautiful resorts with beautiful white sandy beaches and water activities, great shopping opportunities, friendly and helpful locals and not to mention, a great variety of cuisines. There is no shortage of any type of food, local fare, Chinese, western, even Iranian food.

If you are a visitor looking for Iranian food, or even a local looking to try out Iranian fare, this restaurant that serves authentic Iranian or Persian food is what you are looking for. The restaurant is

TAKTAZ RESTAURANT,
No.B-G-3, Block B,
Persiaran Serdang Perdana,
Taman Serdang Perdana.,
43300 Seri Kembangan.
Tel: 03-89413364 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              03-89413364      end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              03-89413364      end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Business hours: noon to midnight.

Below are some of the authentic Iranian fare they serve.

Tempting: The Lamb Koobide Kebab is lean ground lamb glazed to perfection and served with rice topped with saffron.

Different: Salt and vinegarbased vegetable pickles is a favourite among the Iranian community.

Popular: Chicken Barberry Rice is chicken served with specially prepared Persian-style rice, including barberry and pistachio topped with saffron.

Bon appetit!

Source: The Star...The best of Iranian fare

Malaysian Stamps On Dragon Boat World Championship

If you are a stamp collector or a collector of Malaysian stamps, this batch of new stamps that will be going on sale in Post Offices around the country on August 1, may interest you.

It is a special collection of commemorative stamps to mark the International Dragon Boat Federation Club Crew World Championship 2008. This is the first time that Malaysia is hosting this event which will be held in Penang, at the Teluk Bahang Dam from July 31 to Aug 3.


"Dragon boat racing is a team sport that originates from China. The dragon boat is long and narrow and combines the power, speed and endurance of 12 or 20 rowers. During races, the boats are always rigged with decorative Chinese dragon heads and tails, and the members of each team can be seen rowing with full concentration in a synchronised movement, led by a drummer." - The Star

The stamps and miniature sheets come in three designs and measure 40mm x 30mm. They are printed in sheets of 20 on SPM watermark, phosphor coated paper and are available in three denominations – 30sen, 50sen and RM1. Members of the public can also buy the miniature sheet, 120mm x 60mm in size, at RM2.

If you happen to be in Beijing, you will be able to view these stamps at a stamp exhibition showcasing them in Beijing from Aug 7 to 18. This exhibition is to promote Malaysian stamps to collectors from other countries.

Source: The Star...New stamps to mark boat race

L'Oreal Warehouse Stock Clearance/Baskin-Robbins Promotion

Every year this time, Malaysia has her Mega-sale and "Shop till you drop" is never more true. For starters, take advantage of the L'Oreal Warehouse Stock Clearance happening today and tomorrow.

L'Oreal Warehouse Stock Clearance

And to cool off from the heat and humidity, have a Baskin-Robbins with these special coupons.

Baskin-Robbins Ice-Cream Promotion

Fuel Debate tonight at 9pm

The fuel price debate between Information Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will be aired live on TV9, Astro Awani and Bernama TV.

Massive jams

Massive jams this morning in Kuala Lumpur.

Malaysian News Update

Britain may be forced to slap visa requirement

Nicol to be a Penang Datuk

Coffee costs 30 sen more in Penang

Google Map of the World

I thought I would include a world map here. Thanks to Google, this is possible. Feel free to explore the world here. Enjoy! By the way, I am having the world map linked on the side bar for easy access.


View Larger Map

Lifestyle change after the June 5 petrol price hike

The June 5 gas hike has resulted in some drastic actions taken by the public to counteract the sharp rise of fuel. Less vehicles have been reported going into the city and there is a rise in the number of people taking public transport. It has also been reported that there has been a 25% increase in motorbike sales.

The petrol hike has also resulted in prices of goods and services being increased significantly.

Picture source: The Star

Osmonds Concert at Genting Highlands

If you are a fan of the Osmonds, you may want to catch their concert tonight at Genting Highlands, at the Arena of Stars. Concert starts at 8:00pm and tickets are priced at RM480, RM360, RM260 and RM110. You can check out www.genting.com.my for details and reservations.

(From left) Merrill, Donny, Marie and Jimmy all set to perform Saturday.
The Osmonds picked Malaysia as the last stop of their 50th Anniversary world tour. According to Jimmy Osmond, this will be the last time all seven of the Osmonds will perform together on stage. After this, they will continue on their separate careers.

The last time the whole family performed on tour together was 28 years ago ... at Genting! So, this is sort of a reunion concert.

“We won't just go on stage and sing a bunch of songs. It's a lot of variety, a lot of multimedia ... very entertaining two hours,” said Merrill Osmond, 55, lead singer of The Osmonds. Merrill and his three siblings Donny, 50, Marie, 48, and Jimmy, 45, were speaking at a press conference here yesterday.

The Osmonds have sold over 100 million records and released over 140 albums with 52 gold or platinum records.

Restoran Sheesh Mahal

Visitors to Malaysia will have no problem with food because Malaysia is indeed a food paradise. My stats today show someone is looking for a North Indian restaurant here in Kuala Lumpur. Below, you will find details including the telephone number. Welcome to Malaysia!

Restoran Sheesh Mahal
No. 33, Jln Ss15/5a, SS15,
47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
Tel: 60 3 5621 3671

Petrol to cost RM2.70 from midnight

Below is article reproduced from The Star:

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Wednesday announced price hikes for petrol, diesel and electricity.

He said the new price for petrol is RM2.70 a litre, effective midnight tonight. The price goes up by 78sen from the current RM1.92, a hike of 40%.

Abdullah also announced that the price of diesel would be increased by RM1 from RM1.58 to RM2.58.

He also said that Tenaga Nasional Bhd would be raising electricity rates by 18% for homes and 26% for business users.

The announcements are part of the new fuel subsidy plan.

Abdullah also announced a RM625 annual cash rebate per vehicle, for owners of private vehicles with engine capacities of up to 2,000cc, as well as pickup trucks and jeeps with engine capacities of up to 2,500cc.

Owners of private motorcycles with engine capacities of up to 250cc will receive RM150.

Payment will be made via Money Order upon renewal of road tax, from July 1.

For owners of private vehicles with engine capacities exceeding 2000cc, road tax will be reduced by RM200.

Owners of private motorcycles with engine capacities above 250 cc will get RM50 reduction in road tax.

No petrol sales to foreign cars in border towns

If you a visitor to Malaysia and has rented a car to drive in from Singapore, you may want to take note that you will no longer be able to fill up your gas tank within a radius of 50km from the border starting this Friday.

According to The Star today, petrol stations located in border states like Johor and Perlis will be barred from selling petrol and diesel to foreign-registered cars starting Friday.

Less Durians this season

These thorny fruits are called durians., They are a local fruit. To the locals, they are referred to as the king of fruits. However, to foreigners the smell of the fruit can be off-putting.

Durian orchard owners in Penang are experiencing a lean harvest this season, after heavy rains in December and January disrupted the flowering.

Durian trees flower during dry season and after between 90 to 120 days the fruits are ripe and ready to fall. But when excessive rains fall during the supposedly dry season, the tree don't bloom.

According to an orchard owner, “A dry season is needed in order for the trees to undergo stress, a process when the bark cracks, allowing green buds to emerge.” He added that

“It is important for the tree to undergo stress during its fertile period, which is when it produces hormones.

“After the fertile period is over, it is still possible for the tree to undergo stress and flower. However, with a late bloom, the fruits that materialise will not be so good,” Tham said, adding that durians dropped 90 to 120 days after the flowering.

In good times: The average durian tree can yield 50 to 70 fruits after flowering.

Source: The Star...Bad weather a thorny issue for orchard owners

Retirement age for civil servants now 58

The mandatory retirement age for civil servants has been extended from the current 56 years to 58, effective July 1. This was announced at the public sector Workers Day gathering at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre yesterday by Prime Minister, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Civil servants now have a choice of opting to retire at 56 or work until they reach 58. More..The Star