Sabahan artist Yee I-Lann uses her work to talk about communities celebrating their cultures and differences. She also focuses on connections and one way towards it — that is, to share a tikar. The mat, usually woven by women, represents egalitarian, communal and feminist politics. It is flexible and can serve as a meeting place, like the tamu or weekly market, where people exchange goods, stories and ideas. Stripped of hierarchy, it is a space where people can find the others, and learn from different views and ways of looking at things.

The heart of the matter

Hannah Yeoh has been busy as a bee with various meetings, engagements and appearances scheduled ever since she was sworn in as the youth and sports minister in December. In between catching up with athletes and speaking about initiatives rolled out by the ministry under her care, she talks to us about her Road to Gold programme, which she hopes will yield a gold medal at the coming Olympics in Paris next year.

Raising the game

With Mother’s Day on the horizon, we catch up with respected corporate figure and philanthropist Datuk Anne Eu and Cannes-nominated filmmaker daughter Amanda Nell on supporting and inspiring each other.

As Eu like it

The Niro Ceramic Group is all set to go public in the middle of next year. We speak to its managing director Ian Kok about how the company is banking on its Swiss heritage and innovative spirit to take it forward to become a regional tile player.

Laying the groundwork

A plot of padi land bought in the 1960 evolved over the years and became a weekend home, Sentosa Janda Baik, where Tan Sri Kamarul Ariffin Mohamed Yassin’s family gathered. As the place blossomed with trees, plants and flowers tended by his wife Frances, he collected paintings, sculptures and ornate wood carvings, as well as kitchen utensils, furniture and tools salvaged from his grandfather's home in Kerdau, Pahang. These have been placed in three galleries — the Islamic Gallery, White Gallery and Grandfather’s Gallery — set up on the property and now open to the public. Another of the seven structures on Sentosa Janda Baik in Bentong is a residence, also open to guests for home stays. Guided gallery tours can be arranged, as well as meals on the grounds, which also serve as event spaces.

Tranquil sensibility

We meet with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia chief executive officer and president Sagree Sardien to learn more about the company's sustainability and electrification initiatives. She explains how clear foundation pillars, governmental incentives, and consumer awareness are pushing sustainable practices in the organisation and the automotive sector. All parties must play their role in bringing the central idea together.

All charged up

Born with a visceral call in his heart, Morgan Bourc’his has dedicated his life to freediving and his soul to the sea. The three-time world champion and friend of Tudor was invited to Gaya Island, Sabah to host a freediving masterclass for the brand’s clients. In an exclusive interview, the Frenchman talks about the wonders of and transcending experiences in the deep blue, as well as the daring spirit it takes to go beyond.

Master of the sea

KUALA LUMPUR (March 26): As Château de Versailles turns 400 this year, what better way to mark the occasion than with a weekend break at Le Grand Côntrole, the impossibly luxurious hotel right by the palace’s side? Having opened in 2021, the latter is, by all accounts, a boutique hotel but an overnight stay will put paid to that thought immediately.

All the luxe

Those who profess a love for all things terpsichorean need to make a cultural pilgrimage, at least once in their lifetime, to the Unesco World Heritage Site of Khajuraho in India during its celebrated annual dance festival.

Diary of a dancer

IWD 2023: 30 Malaysian female personalities share their secret to success

Xavier Justo has been called an ‘accidental hero’ for the leaks that led to the uncovering of 1MDB’s dirty deals. In Rendezvous with Injustice, he and wife Laura talk about being stuck in the mire.

 

BEHIND the sordid scandal of 1Malay...

Cover Story: Lifting the LID

Hoping to fill a gap in the market for co-working space made for luxury-minded members, group executive deputy chair of Advance Synergy Bhd Anton Syazi Ahmad Sebi introduces Yap Ah Shak House in Kuala Lumpur as “an exceptional address in KL for business”. Modelled after similar properties he’s overseeing in London and guided by timeless and green design features as well as exceptional service, the luxe space boasts well-equipped meeting rooms, lounges, private offices, events space, an Italian restaurant and a rooftop bar. Plans are underway to extend the offerings at the building. Also in the pipeline are properties for work and play at two different locations in Malaysia. Stay tuned!

Working ahead

Great Eastern Life Assurance (Malaysia) Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Koh Yaw Hui has spent most of his working years with the insurer, establishing himself as one of the most respected and well-regarded personalities in the business. In an open and frank interview, the charming and charismatic corporate chieftain discusses tattoos, his "MBA", and lessons that have shaped his approach to leadership.

Leading by example

Genting Highlands Premium Outlets and Johor Premium Outlets, which are celebrating their 5th-year and 10th-year anniversaries respectively, are offering a sale of up to 80% discount from Dec 23 till Jan 1 to commemorate the events, which coincide with the Christmas festivities.

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