Guardian's Outstanding Brands Awards 2017 Begins on 1 SEPTEMBER

Our favorite annual brands' award - Guardian’s Outstanding Brands Award 2017 (OBA) is back! This marks the 17^th edition of its highly popular annual award for health and beauty brands.

Ms. Christina Low, Marketing Director Guardian Malaysia (left) and Ms Shirley New, Senior Marketing Manager Guardian Malaysia checking out the OBA 2017 online voting site

The annual award, first introduced by Guardian Malaysia in 2000, has been premised on connecting its millions of shoppers to all its business partners and brand owners, by having the shoppers vote for the most outstanding brand.

Ms Christina Low, Marketing Director of Guardian Health and Beauty Sdn Bhd said: “The Outstanding Brands Award is our way of celebrating with our business partners and giving recognition to brand excellence.”

She said that since it was launched 16 years ago, the Award has grown in popularity among Guardian’s shoppers, who look forward to getting their say and having the chance to win attractive prices.

“Needless to say, the Award has also evolved in keeping with changes in lifestyle, spending and shoppers’ trends. This year, the OBA will be conducted entirely in digital format. This means, all voting will be done online,” she added.

Ms Shirley New, Senior Marketing Manager Guardian Malaysia briefing the media on Most Outstanding Brands Award 2017

For OBA 2017, a total of 200 brands will be vying for 60 categories ranging from hair care, face care, cosmetics, hygiene, supplements, medication, mother and child products, and many more. There will be one most preferred brand award for each category.

For shoppers, they stand a chance to win one of the 50 prizes, totaling RM25,000 in Guardian vouchers. 

Fonterra Unites Malaysia-New Zealand Flavours to Celebrate 60 Years of Friendship

Counting down to Merdeka Day, we would like to share a meaningful event that we had attended recently. Host by Fonterra Brands Malaysia, with the aim to commemorate 60 years of Malaysia-New Zealand diplomatic ties in conjunction with Merdeka Day, Fonterra Brands Malaysia demonstrated two unique fusion dishes – Roti Jala with New Zealand Lamb Tandoori and Kiwi Venison Rendang Meat Pie with Potatoes and Mushroom – to showcase the iconic flavours of both countries at the cooking event at The Cooking House, Bangsar last Wednesday.

L-R: Fonterra’s Anchor Food Professionals, Chef Alex; Managing Director of Fonterra Brands Malaysia and Singapore, Mr Jose Miguel Porraz Lando; H.E. Dr John Subritzky, New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Malaysia; and Anchor Food Professionals, Chef Firuz, presenting two unique recipes (Roti Jala with New Zealand Lamb Tandoori and Kiwi Venison Rendang Meat Pie with Potatoes and Mushroom) at Fonterra’s Merdeka Nutrition Kitchen 

Developed by chefs from Fonterra’s foodservices division Anchor Food Professionals, the dishes represent the harmonious and long-standing friendship between Malaysia and New Zealand, as well as Fonterra’s commitment to provide the best dairy nutrition to Malaysians through leading brands such as Anlene, Fernleaf, Anmum (Materna, Essential and Lacta) and Anchor.

His Excellency Dr John Subritzky, New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, highlighted the significance of this 60-year milestone and Fonterra’s role as a leading dairy nutrition provider in Malaysia.

“Malaysia is a key partner for New Zealand – we have long enjoyed strong trade relations, and Fonterra, the world’s largest dairy exporter and New Zealand’s largest investor in Malaysia, plays an important part in this relationship.

“Since its establishment in Malaysia more than 40 years ago, Fonterra has focused on promoting the health and wellbeing of Malaysians by sharing the goodness of New Zealand dairy locally,” said Dr Subritzky.

Mr Jose Miguel Porraz Lando, Managing Director of Fonterra Brands Malaysia and Singapore, emphasised the importance of innovation in meeting the ever-changing needs of today’s consumers.

Tetley Tea is Available @ Malaysia

Calling all tea lovers, we now have a new choice of premium tea. Introducing Tetley Tea, Britain's iconic tea brand, which is also the second largest tea brand globally.

We had enjoy a journey of the art of tea blending hosted by Sebastian Michaellis, Tetley Tea Master at Cocott Restaurant recently. It was a morning to enjoy the special tea tasting and perfect brew learning experience.

Rajat Kumar, Global Head Business Development, Tata Global Beverages

We were welcome by Rajat Kumar, Global Head Business Development, Tata Global Beverages before Sebastian Michaellis shared with us the art of tea blending.

Sebastian Michaellis, Tetley Tea Master

Made from the young leaves and unopened buds of the plant, Calellia Sinensis, Tetley tea leaves are sourced from 11 countries across 3 continents.

With a heritage of 180 years of perfecting the art of blending tea, Tetley is now available for us in Malaysia too. From tea bag, tea leaves, and teapot bad, you would definitely enjoy the quality of a blend which is graded by assessing the tea leaf and tea liquid, using a unique language called Uhuru.

Disney/Pixar's Cars 3 @ Sunway Pyramid

Calling all Disney/Pixar's Cars fans, you could now catch Lightning McQueen at Sunway Pyramid! Happening from 17th Aug to 3rd Sep 2017, make your way to the Blue Concourse to get up close with a life-sized Lightning McQueen, get behind the wheel and feel the road, many more fun activities for the whole family.

Kiki Poh, our very own Malaysian Pixar artist was present at the launch of Disney/Pixar's Cars 3 @ Sunway Pyramid.

Disney/Pixar's Cars 3 movie is already on the cinemas since 24th Aug 2017. The legendary Lightning McQueen finds himself blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast cars. Hoping to get back in the game, he turns to Cruz Ramirez, an eager young technician who has her own plans for winning. With inspiration from the Fabulous Hudson Horney and a few unexpected turns, No. 95 prepares to compete on Piston Cup Racing's biggest stage.

Bye Bye Bad Breath with IBKEEO Premium Oral Hygiene Mouthwash

I hate talking to people with foul oral odor, what about you? Sorry for that as I know oral smell is actually cause by bacteria and not that person's intention, but hey, don't you think it's very important to stay away from oral smell? Therefore, we need products that helps in freshen our breath.

I was glad to attend a mouth wash workshop not long ago. There, we got to learn that proteins elements cover our teeth and gums. Oral bacteria and food will attach themselves to this protein membrane after meals. With that, plus the combination of a body temperature of 37c, it forms a perfect breeding ground for bacteria! Plaques form easily in this condition without proper cleansing and bad breath will be form too.

Hence, it is essential to prevent oral and gum diseases by using a good mouth wash. As a hygience person, my family and I are user of mouth wash for years. However, it was our first encounter with IBKEEO Premium Oral Hygiene Mouthwash, a mouth wash from Kimchi land – South Korea!

What is so special about IBKEEO Premium Oral Hygiene Mouthwash is, it is enhanced with quality ginseng extract, white peony (an active antibacterial ingredient, preventing growth of bacteria), tea tree (helps to remove protein leftover in the mouth and eliminate bad breath) and licorice (activates salivary glands, prevent dry mouth, and cleans oral hygiene). These premium ingredients made it so nice to gargle!

Murad City Skin Duo Protect Our Skin Against All Five Environmental Aggressors

Murad has did it once again. Knowing that our skin will be damaged by the harsh environmental changes and the desires and needs of women today, Murad launched its latest skin care line; the City Skin Duo to protect against all five environmental aggressors, including digital devices, infrared radiation, UVA and UVB Rays, and pollution. Aside from protections, Murad’s City Skin Duo also detoxifies your skin from past damages.

We were honored to be invited to the grand launch of Murad City Skin Duo that was held at Rama V. It was a chilly and relaxing morning plus we got to learn a lot from the experts.

L to R: Mr. Lim Chang Chern, Deacon Medical Sdn. Bhd. Director; Mr. David G.Whyte, Murad Asia Pacific Global Educator; Mr. Jason, Deacon Medical Sdn. Bhd. Director

“Murad skincare has been connecting with its customers in their unique Inclusive Health Approach to build a younger-looking, healthier and happier consumer by protecting and promoting the health of entire body,” said Mr Jason, Director of Deacon Medical Sdn Bhd.

“For that reason, we are confident with Murad City Skin Duo will be a favorite with its unique formulation.” Mr. Jason Choy added.

The City Skin Duo consists of City Skin Age Defense SPF 50 and City Skin Overnight Detox Moisturizer.

With many Malaysians spend most of their time looking at electronic screens, Murad has come to the rescue by utilizing a number of game-changing ingredients such as lutein and marrubium plant to address the damaging effects of staring at computer and smartphone screens all day.

MasteryAsia Joins Hands with Global Coworking Brand Our Space to Bring Luxury Coworking to Malaysia

As the Share Office / CoWorking Space concept is in trend, people in Malaysia will be happy to be offered a luxury coworking space soon. We have attended the conference last week and here we are going to share more exciting news with you.

L: Dean Edward | M: Kevan Halliwell | R: KC See

MasteryAsia, a home grown global coaching and mentoring organisation in Malaysia has entered into an agreement with Our Space, a global coworking space provider headquartered in the United Arab Emirates recently. In addition, the agreement sees MasteryAsia serve as official marketing partner for Our Space in the Malaysian market. Our Space started in Marbella, Spain and opening in Dubai Soon and will also venture into Manchester, Leeds, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Miami and Hong Kong in very near future. 

In line with the ambition to open 50 coworking centres in 12 key cities across the globe in the next five years, Malaysia will see its first Our Space location open in Kuala Lumpur. Coworking spaces are the fastest growing sector in the commercial real estate industry worldwide, experiencing a boom particularly in Asia. MasteryAsia now presents Malaysians with the timely opportunity to join in the success of the coworking movement with investment opportunities with Our Space.

“From the outset, we have been building a global business designed and carefully executed to stake our claim as a pioneer in the coworking industry. Our first locations have been strategically planned across Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East, setting Our Space up for swift and decisive expansion around the world over the next few years," said Kevan Halliwell, Chief Executive Officer at Our Space. “Together with MasteryAsia, we are excited to have Malaysia be part of our continued success story.”

Kevan Halliwell, Chief Executive Officer at Our Space

Coworking has taken the world by storm in the last decade and is without a doubt a buzzword amongst entrepreneurs and SMEs in the leading cities in the region and abroad. Flexible workspaces are preferred more social, affordable and productive for both young and established businesses. Scientists have proven over decades of study that humans also experience lowered anxiety and stress levels, increased creativity, energy and productivity when immersed in an environment with plants, natural light and fresh air.

Personal Branding 247

Why is this Book Written?

Personal Branding is essential for everyone regardless if you are an entrepreneur or a corporate executive. If you do not manage your own personal branding, others will do so on your behalf through their perception of you.

While many in the world focus on the form or the communication of personal branding, Personal Branding expounds the balance between the Substance, the Positioning, and the Form.

How is this book presented?

There are 3 main sections: Brand Audit which focuses on the Substance behind a person. The second is the Brand Strategy which is about the Positioning of the Brand. Lastly, there is a section on Brand Communication which focuses on the Form of the personal branding.

Every chapter in Personal Branding 247 begins with a powerful quotation by the author followed by a concise discussion of the strategy. The strategies discussed are authenticated by the Author’s Story. Each chapter ends with several Points to Ponder so that readers can focus on key consideration before they embark on their own journey.

Apple Fox Cider is in Town

#WhatTheFox is Apple Fox Cider and what the fox says? 

Great news to us in Malaysia, we can enjoy the newly launched Apple Fox Cider from this August onward. Inspired by New Zealand,  Apple Fox Cider ripples your senses with a crisp refreshing taste, made from only good, fresh orchard apples.

By going into the heart of natural freshness – the orchard – Apple Fox Cider captures the essence of purity from where the freshest apples are grown. Just like a fox hunting in the orchard, this alcoholic cider will steal the hearts of those seeking a brand that stands for straight-up, instant refreshment with a contemporary and bold edge. Perfect for those afternoon pick-ups Apple Fox Cider injects a much needed spontaneity to everyday mundane routines. 

Inspired by New Zealand cider makers, Apple Fox uses the best-kept secrets of cider making in creating a distinct, refreshing smooth drinking experience, served over ice. Stealthy by nature, the fox has been known to sneak into orchards to hunt for delicious, juicy apples. Apple Fox is stepping in using our wily friends' favourite fruit to craft great tasting apple cider. 

Apple Fox Cider contains 4.5% ABV and delivers an instant refreshing taste. Only the freshest apples sourced from orchards all over the world are picked to make the cider, ensuring a naturally crisp texture and intense flavour that makes the best tasting cider.
The meticulous process of creating Apple Fox Cider adds to the superior taste of the product. The selection of a perfect mix of crisp and tart apples is the first step in ensuring the unique brand flavour before the milling and pressing process that releases the natural apple juice, which is the basis for the fresh apple taste. On to the fermentation, blending and filtration processes in producing cider that consistently delivers refreshing apple taste.

Korean Face Powder that Cost Only RM16

With the slow economy and everything's price is increasing, we can merely buy a skincare or cosmetic products with less than RM 20, agree with me?

But I am sharing with you a face powder that cost us only RM 16, furthermore it is from Korea! Wow, that's sound so unbelievable but it's the truth. Introducing the Althea Petal Velvet powder, Althea's very first own product.

Comes with a sweet pink and petite packaging, Althea Petal Velvet powder is made from natural flower petals. Infused with oil from Althea seeds, this powder works to keep sebum production at bay without drying out the skin for a radiant, fresh look, all while giving out a gentle scent.

This translucent powder sets makeup and leaves behind a silky finish to the touch. I used it to set my makeup as the last step. All I needed to do it to dab the powder with the fluffy and cute sponge that is provided in the case. I can say that it's oil control is quite good to let me stay shine-free for long hours.

FashionValet Celebrates Local Talents with #IAMHOMEGROWN Campaign to Instill Malaysian Pride @ KLFW 2017

FashionValet is back as the main sponsor for the fifth year of KL Fashion Week! In celebration of the great partnership, FashionValet and KLFW have joined forces to instil pride and recognition of incredible Malaysian talents with #IAMHOMEGROWN as the anchor of this year’s event.

“There is one thing that binds us together in this country regardless of race, religion or political views: We are, first and foremost, Malaysians. In the spirit of Merdeka, the birth of #IAMHOMEGROWN aims to celebrate who we are, our contribution as Malaysians as well as to highlight those who have paved the way for us!” exclaimed Fadzarudin Anuar, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of FashionValet.

The #IAMHOMEGROWN campaign features more than sixty Malaysian icons of various fields and backgrounds, who have made a name for themselves in their respective industries. Some of the icons featured are actors such as Puan Sri Tiara Jacqueline and Bront Palare, music mavens such as Joe Flizzow, fashion powerhouse Mimpikita and Khoon Hooi to purveyors of Malaysian cuisines, Datuk Chef Wan and Madam Kwan, among others. Regardless of race, religion or political views, these names have come together to support the campaign.

To commemorate the #IAMHOMEGROWN movement, FashionValet’s very own FV BASICS have produced a collection of street style inspired threads - from T-shirts, jumpers/sweaters, to jumper dresses and leggings with the text #IAMHOMEGROWN boldly emblazoned on each piece. The pieces from the collection are made in cotton mix, and come in fuss-free hues such as black and white. With its minimalist aesthetic, the collection demonstrates the versatility of street style staples, with endless styling possibilities. Designed to be worn daily by anybody, no matter what they do, each piece is a powerful statement of Malaysian pride.

Interview with a Dancer - Jackson Boogie J

We have been to a few dance competitions recently, and we felt interested in dance competitions especially street dance, on the energy, the fire, the power, and the good attitude. In fact, it is indeed a good platform for youth to showcase their talents via dance. This is what we need for the community - positive attitude and upbringing. Hence, we decided to interview one of the dancer who is also a dance competition organiser, Jackson Boogie J at his studio - Freakz Dance that is located in Klang last week.

Having been in the dance industry for 10 years now, let's see how Jackson answers our questions below;

What are the competitions that you have organised or co-organised before?

Jackson Boogie J: I have organised 'The Moment' competition before. The Moment dance competition has attracted participants around the World to join it in Malaysia. In fact, I have organised dance competition every year.


You are a dancer. Many people just dance to have fun or to win. Why did you get involved in the dance competitions?

Jackson Boogie J: This is because I want to build the dance community and let it stay alive. The dance community and the people need us for improvement.

What is that one thing you see when you organise a dance competition? or feel?

Jackson Boogie J: I can know a person's character from his dancing.

Let’s Gobble Gobble at TEMPTationS, Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel Value buffets for Lunch, Dinner and more!

Attention to all foodie, let’s Gobble Gobble at TEMPTationS, Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel Value buffets for Lunch, Dinner and more! Visit TEMPTationS from 1 August until 30 September 2017 to enjoy our Lunch or Dinner Buffets where you can gobble and guzzle without burning your wallet. Gather your family and friends for Lunch as the buffet is priced at only RM60nett per person while the Dinner Buffet from Thursdays to Saturdays is at RM80nett per person.

In addition to the reduced buffet prices, diners will be able to complement their meals with 2 hours free flow of house wine at RM66nett per person or 2 hours free flow of soft drinks at RM22nett per person and complimentary car park at the hotel basement.

Executive Chef Helmut Lamberger and his team have crafted special menus on rotation basis tailored to cater to every palate where diners will also be able to savor a tantalizing selection of dishes spanning from East to West.

From Soups and Salads to a variety of Seafood on Ice to start off your meal, there is also a hearty selection of homemade breads and cheeses to be relished. Specials at the Dinner Buffet include live stations dishing out Chicken shawarma, Roasted lamb shoulder with rosemary jus, Freshly grilled chicken and beef satay and Salt crusted baked whole seabass to name a few.

Enhance The Beauty of Your Lips with The New Water Lip Tone Up CC

Introducing the Water Lip Tone Up CC – a lipbalm that color corrects your lip colour while it nourishes and moisturizes your lips for an intense and long-lasting moisturization. The Water Lip Tone Up CC comes in a unique formulation that has been created with three colour correcting functions.

CC, or color correcting concept are multi-purpose products that correct color using light-diffusing particles to give the skin a healthy look. With the invention of the Water Lip Tone Up CC, you can now enjoy the benefits of the colour-correcting function in your lip balm too! Apart from that, it also revives dull lips, enhances and restores lip colour as well as brightens the lips. Its formula is further enhanced with 3D PEARL to vividly enhance your natural lip colour, thereby improving one’s overall appearance.

The formula combines powerful nourishing ingredients such as Vitamin C derivative, Vitamin E and Vitamin E derivative to keep lips feeling soft and hydrated. It also contains Olive Oil and Jojoba Oil that nourish the lips.

CUBECRATE July 2017 Box

I have received my CUBECRATE mysterious monthly subscription box for July 2017. Let's scroll down to see what's inside the box ok.

A bottle of OISHI Green Tea Honey Lemon.

OISHI Green Tea Honey Lemon taste refreshing like no other. It's not too sweet as it is made from organic green tea laves.

A tube of Tinkerberry Shea and rose lipbalm.

Tinkerberry's products contains No Preservatives, No Alcohol, No SLS, No Paraben and No Synthetic Ingredients. Support our local brand at https://www.tinkerberryspa.com/

Sport-proof Make-up - PUPA Sport Addicted

Great news for all active people like us, the best selling make-up in Italian perfumeries - PUPA has launched the sport-proof make-up - PUPA Sport Addicted that is specially formulates for use during sport activities. As a beauty junkie, I would not forgo make-up in the name of wellness. Hence, the range is here to save me! Its' sweat-proof, waterproof and totally sport-proof formula allows us to look great even when working out!

Designed for comfortable and long-lasting effect, the PUPA Sport Addicted has a range of products below;

Sport Addicted Powder (RM 115)

For a nutural and delicate coverage for a homogeneous and smooth finish that last for whole day.

Comes in 3 shades namely 001 Rose Beige, 002 Natural beige and 003 Warm Beige.

Sport Addicted Concealer (RM 85)

A lightweight concealer with melting texture that adheres perfectly to the skin. Sport Addicted Concealer instantly corrects every type of imperfection to create that flawless skin.

Comes in 3 shades namely 001 Light Beige, 002 Natural beige and 003 Intense Beige.

Sport Addicted Fixer (RM 99)

An innovative water-based mist that make our face makeup resistant to sweat and heat. Furthermore, it's so lightweight and fresh, which leaves an imperceptible film that fixes our face make up in just a single step.

Sport Addicted Mascara (RM 89)

Smudge eyes no more with Sport Addicted Mascara. It has a soft texture and very lightweight, flexible film that is also resistant to sweat and water, aking it perfect for all sports, even the most intense ones like HIIT.

The formula has two fibres mix with different rigidity, gives us an intense and generous volume and perfectly seperated lashes with just 2 coats.

Sport Addicted Liner (RM 69)

Eye liner pencil with a soft and highly pigmented texture that ensures instant, full colour release.

Comes in 4 colours namely 001 Powerful Black, 002 Dynamic Brown, 003 Energy Blue and 004 Sporty Emerald.

Sport Addicted Balm (RM 59)

A lip balm with soft, comfortable texture. It is easy to apply and extremely pleasant on lips. Lips feel smoother, softer and protected with SPF 15.

Comes with 3 colours, from transparent to gently tinted. Gives us a flawless lips even during sports.

Colour available: 001 Pure Vanilla, 002 Nude Rose and 003 Burgundy.

PUPA Sport Addicted range is now available exclusively at all SaSa stores nationwide.

For more information, go to www.pupa.com and https://www.facebook.com/SaSaMalaysia/

Brighter Skin with Hada Labo Whitening Cooling Sherbet

With Malaysia’s hot and humid weather all year long, we often struggle to find ways to keep our skin radiant, hydrated and grease free. Hada Labo introduces a new Whitening Cooling Sherbet from Japan, so your skin does not have to take the heat anymore.

The Hada Labo Whitening Cooling Sherbet is a multi-purpose soft cream that comes with a unique sherbet-like texture. Upon application, the cream melts on skin surface like a sorbet and instantly calms and cool down the skin. Formulated with Tranexamic Acid- a powerful whitening ingredient, the Hada Labo Whitening Cooling Sherbet not only provides a cooling sensation that refreshes the skin, it also helps fight dark spots, brighten and rebalance skin tone, leaving skin perfectly luminous and translucent with natural radiance. With just a spread of the sherbet cream on your face, skin instantly feels refreshed, moisturized and hydrated all day long!

The formula of the Hada Labo Whitening Cooling Sherbet combines a blend of Menthol, Witch Hazel extract, Strawberry Saxifrage and Edelweiss which boosts skin hydration and visibly minimizes enlarged pores. Upon application, the soft texture of the cream melts smoothly on the skin, giving the skin a refreshing, cooling sensation. The Whitening Cooling Sherbet can be applied day and night, after moisturizer as the last step of your skin regime. It is also ideal to use after sun exposure to cool, calm and soothe skin irritation from UV exposure. For better cooling results, it can also be stored in the refrigerator.

Dettol Deep Cleanse Range

Dettol has launched its latest Deep Cleanse range recently, a refreshingly fragrant formula that cleanses deep into skin pores for better bathing experience.

Comes in body wash and bar soap, the Dettol Deep Cleanse range contains 100% natural apricot micro-scrubbing beads for satisfying exfoliation of dead skin cells, leaving complexion bright and renewed. As the formula removes grime, pollutants and germs thoroughy from skin, the whole families will enjoy its lasting fruity fragrance.

Available at all major pharmacies and supermarkets, Dettol Deep Cleanse Body Wash comes in SKU below;