The Glam Lounge @ MY FAME HOTEL, Seremban

I was reminded of the saying ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ when I visited THE GLAM LOUNGE recently. From the outside, the property looks unremarkable – a humble, hall banquet building with a distinctly residential feel and lots of parking. I was convinced that I must have taken a wrong-turn along the way but the various hospitality signages displayed around the entrance suggested otherwise.

THE GLAM LOUNGE is perfect for celebrating an anniversary, a wedding or a birthday party. The staff is knowledgeable that’s what makes this place so nice. People mention that the service is enjoyable here. Prices at this spot claim to be reasonable and attractive. The lovely decoration and homey atmosphere let clients feel relaxed here.

I arrived a little after 11am on a sunny Saturday morning. Walking in, the space is huge. There is a bar in the middle of the dining area. Seating is spacious and modern, and there is an electric, vibrant atmosphere. I immediately loved the colorful, chic and sophisticated surroundings.

Lasagna Chicken

With eight hearty layers of chicken, mushrooms, and cheesy goodness, this lasagna will fill up the family and then some.

Who says lasagna requires tomato sauce and Alfredo belongs with fettuccine? The garlic-herb cheese used in this recipe creates a sauce that’s similar to rich Alfredo. Assemble towering layers of chicken, mushrooms, and spinach, and you’ll have one impressive lasagna.

The building process takes a bit of time, but it’s well worth it.

Salmon Steak

Salmon Steak arrived it was clear to us that the food being served in GLAM LOUNGE is special. This is modern cooking where the Chef Jay wants to push boundaries… not just for the sake of it but because of a determination to explore the possibilities that these ingredients present. Here the flawlessly cooked New Zealand Salmon was paired with broccoli and carrots – nothing too revolutionary at first glance – but the addition of a deeply savoury black olive crumb, a sticky tomato jam and an outstanding creamy cheese elevated this dish to something truly memorable without being gimmicky.

Lamb Shank

According to Chef Jay, never go home without ordering The Lamb shank, this is a popular favorite because its tender, flavorful and topped with warm gravy and unique sides to suit all taste buds. The braised lamb shank here is cooked in BBQ smoked “home made” sauce that gives it a mild spice that doesn’t overwhelm the natural taste of the lamb. The meat is tender, soft and juicy. Served beside a fluffy and thick mash potatoes that would bring a smile to potato lovers around. This is a restaurant that presumes style yet never lets you feel uncomfortable.

Glam Nasi Ayam Penyet

Believe it or not, but ayam penyet feels like something that you can eat weekly. There is just something about this particular Indonesian dish. Fried chicken is nicely smashed with pestle against mortar, paired with sambal, slices of cucumber, fried tofu, and tempeh with it’s sambal hijau. It sounds like a dream! You should try it!

Nasi Goreng Kampung

Wok-fried rice in a traditional kampung style with chopped long beans and sauce. Served with fried anchovies, chillies slices, sunny side up egg, cucumber and spicy paste. What makes this dish special? It’s extra hot and spicy! According to Chef Jay the Nasi Goreng Kampung is always our go-to orders at Glam Lounge. This Malay style fried rice is so yummy! The flavors from the anchovies and spice from the chilies really gives this fried rice a kick. Have it with a side of fried egg (According to the GM, Mr Saravanan Subramaniam, they are able to customized special request) and you’re good to go!

Ayam Masak Lemak Cili Padi

Masak lemak is a vibrant yellow Malaysian curry with a supposed origin in Negeri Sembilan. The dish can be prepared with various proteins such as chicken (ayam), fish (ikan), daging (beef), or seafood, but the base is always the same – a creamy, incredibly flavorful, and spicy combination of turmeric, coconut milk, and various other herbs and spices.

The dish is also known as masak lemak cili api (padi), in which the last two words refer to the use of chilies in the dish. Masak lemak is enjoyed throughout Malaysia and it is usually served accompanied by sambal, rice, and raw vegetables (ulam).

This dish uses turmeric which gives it that gold as sunshine hue.  We all know how turmeric is famed for its purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, so sprinkle away! Normally, this dish is served over rice.. SO GOOD! Pardon my drool.

Vegetarian Fried Rice

Enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal with the Vegetarian Fried Rice. This dish is packed with fresh vegetables, like colourful bell peppers, crunchy carrots, and savoury onions, all stir-fried to perfection with fluffy rice and a medley of aromatic spices. Perfectly balanced and nutritious, the Vegetarian Fried Rice is a great choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So treat yourself to the Vegetarian Fried Rice and experience the perfect combination of flavour and nutrition.

Crème Brulee

Crème brûlée is a decadent French dessert consisting of a custard base and a caramelized sugar crust. The treat is traditionally served in individual ramekins. It was a perfect caramelization, this was a bang-in-season dish, full of the deep, rich flavours of the moment. I loved the slightly bitter sweet edge of the burnt Cream and sugar brought out the underlying nutty sweetness of a crème Brulee. This was intelligent cooking.

Chocolate Brownie

Indulge in a decadent dessert with the Dark chocolate Brownie. Made with high-quality ingredients and without any gluten-containing grains, the brownie is moist, rich, and chocolaty, satisfying your sweet tooth without any of the gluten. They’ve used the finest chocolate and cocoa powder to create a brownie that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Whether you have a gluten intolerance or simply prefer gluten-free desserts, our brownie is the perfect choice. So go ahead and treat yourself to the Chocolate Brownie, and experience the ultimate indulgence in every bite.

After the high standard of the savory course, I am glad the pastry kitchen was up to the test by sending out a dessert that felt in tune with the rest of the meal both in terms of quality and theme. It displays the highest degree of craftsmanship and plenty of personality from a chef who tirelessly cooks more than 50 dishes. Most importantly, the food here is a joy to eat. Ingredients are luxurious and treated carefully. Plates are rich but with balance and finesse. The flavors and presentations are daring as most of five star restaurants, the results are good. This is a restaurant I will happily return again.

For more information and reservations, please contact:

FB @ Theglamloungerestaurant or glamlounge.fame @gmail.com or call +6017-8824068.

What is Kpop X Fitness?

Kpop X Fitness is the first fitness workout successfully incorporated with mind-blowing K-POP creativity & fitness intensity.

KpopX Fitness is a fast growing fitness program in K-Pop Style in Singapore. Easy Popular Intense and Creative – the four magic elements that make KpopX Fitness- EPIC. Cleverly incorporated fitness intensity into simplified dance Moves. Sweat it out to 13 to 14 Kpop hits in one session! Founded by Maddy Lim, Singapore, Dance fitness choreographer.

I took my training and license and became a certified Kpop X Fitness instructor in 2019 which Maddy Lim conducted the training in Kuala Lumpur and my journey from Seremban took about an hour and a half and it was worth it. This program was very new to me and soon I discovered the benefits, joy, happiness and passion in dancing, training and teaching this program.

Good dance teachers care about their students’ class.

GREAT dance teachers care about their students.

Good teachers teach as best as they can for the one session they have. They prepare, are attentive, drill techniques and grooves, describe their movements thoroughly – whatever to make that time valuable. ‍Great dance teachers not only teach, but develop relationships with their students. Not necessarily a BFFL friendship, but one of mentorship. Great dance teachers take the time to know who their students are, what they’re good at, what they need help in, and how they learn best.

Good dance teachers can teach a lot of choreography. GREAT dance teachers can teach a lot about dancing.

If you paid to just learn choreography, then by all means, find the teachers that know how to jam a lot of moves in that 60-90 minutes. But, if you want to understand your body better, practice different ways of executing movement, and fully absorb whatever amount of choreography taught… then find the teachers that teach you how to dance.

It’s pretty obvious when a teacher is just trying to get through the sections until they reach some checkpoint. ‍Great dance teachers, no matter how much choreography they get through, will leave you feeling like you learned something about dance.

GREAT dance teachers gives you props and constructive feedback.

You can’t learn if you don’t know what you gotta learn.‍ Great teachers know how to balance both praise and constructive criticism. They understand that their job isn’t to baby their students and make them happy so they don’t unfollow them.

Ultimately, their job is to push them to become better. (Which will make everyone happy!)

Good dance teachers come prepared. GREAT dance teachers come prepared to be flexible.

As a Kpop X fitness Instructor, I love it when dance teachers know the exact lyrics to the song they’re teaching to – not because I mind if they make something up, but because it shows that they went that extra step to Google search the lyrics.

Preparation is great.

Great dance teachers come truly prepared, meaning they’re ready to adapt at moment’s notice.

This means they can be great teachers, not just for one specific situation, but for all situations.

For example, if a dance teacher starts teaching and soon realizes that their students cannot keep up with the pace of their teaching, they should either be ready to simplify the choreography, spend more time drilling combos, or teach less but teach carefully.

They should NOT just go on teaching the class on their own pace.

Or if there is language barrier, a great dance teacher will be able to find alternate ways of explaining their movements.

Good dance teachers love to dance. A GREAT dance teacher loves to dance and love to teach.

For any Instructor to get to a point where they’re teaching, they probably love dance a lot.

But for them to become great at teaching dance, they have to love teaching.

Not all good scientists make great science teachers, not all artists make good art teachers.

That distinction is everything –Are you a KPOP X FITNESS INSTRUCTOR? Check.

That’s the only way you’ll be a great dance teacher. In conclusion, the concept is simple: You can learn to teach, too.

The life of a fitness Instructor (KPopX Fitness/Go Bhangra Workout/ Zumba/ Personal Trainer)

No photo description available.

The life of a fitness instructor can be super alluring. You’re probably picturing someone working out all day, wearing a uniform of sports bras and leggings, drinking lots of smoothies. And, to be fair, you’d be sort of right. A lot of people dream of leaving behind the standard 9-5 career path to share their love of Zumba/KPOPX Fitness/ Go Bhangra Workout/ Tabata/HIIT/etc with the world instead. That’s exactly what I did; I left behind a stable, lucrative career to launch into the wild wilderness of teaching. I absolutely LOVE it, and wouldn’t go back—it was the right decision for me. But that doesn’t mean it’s an easy path.

Being a fitness instructor or trainer is definitely a dream job. But it’s a dream that can be seriously hard to achieve and maintain, and there are real downsides to it, too, that are often hid behind the curtain.

I’ve been a fitness instructor for almost 7 years now.

I mean holy crap! These years have gone by so quickly! The title “fitness instructor” is a tricky one because it covers such a wide range of possible careers. Typically, boutique studios require a higher standard of instructors than, say, a large chain gym, since their clients are paying for a premium fitness experience. This means instructors need to be the cream of the crop, and the competition for a spot to teach is often fierce. Like any career, you have to invest time and (usually) finances for education first. You need to be certified to teach whatever it is you want to teach.

This is actually one of the most appealing parts of this career to me… but it might really deter a lot of people, because I’m telling you now, this line of work is a HUSTLE. A lot of what you get out of this career comes from what you put in it.

In order to teach fitness full-time, you often have to get creative to make a living. This might mean branching into training private clients or creating classes of your own. It’s really hard to say how much you can make as a fitness instructor, because honestly the sky’s the limit. There’s a big range, which I’ll talk about in a bit. But either way, you usually need to come up with multiple revenue streams in order to create a thriving standard of living for yourself.

Depending on where you teach, as an instructor you’re almost always working freelance, as an independent contractor. You own your own business.

Side note: instructors also need to remember that you won’t connect with everyone, you won’t make everyone happy, and you can’t take it personally.

There’s a big difference between loving fitness and teaching it.

This is probably one of the most important things I’d like to get across—just because you love working out does not mean you’ll love teaching, because they’re two totally different experiences. A good teacher should have their attention on the clients at all time, not themselves and their own workout!

Fitness instructors have to be masters of multitasking.

Remembering your class plan, giving cues (and making them good cues), staying on time, watching clients’ form, demonstrating the moves (with perfect form!), managing music/lights/AC… You gotta be a multitasking pro to succeed.

There’s also a huge performance aspect to teaching: you’re up in front of a crowd of people, with everyone watching you. Your movements must be precise and your personality must be engaging. I used to do dance performances and competitions, and every single time I teach it still feels the same way as stepping out on a stage.

My secret way to get in the right headspace before teaching is to go into the bathroom and take a power Pose, close my eyes, and breathe. A mini meditation. Because once class starts, it’s not stopping! And no matter what happens in class, you’ve got to be able to roll with it—your music might stop playing, the A/C could go out, you’ll have to kindly ask clients to stop talking, online messages and comments might popped up… You must be able to be present, focused, and adaptable.

Instructors must be prepared to receive constant feedback.

Fitness instructors are subject to constant critique. From Google reviews, comments, Face Book reviews to chatter in the locker room, Wassap/ chat messages—people are going to talk about you and your class. (One of the things I hear the most is “I love your energy and smile” .

What’s ironic is that feedback terrified me before I started teaching. As a teacher/blogger/instructor, I was so hurt whenever someone thought my words/actions were less than perfect. I often think back and know that my soul gravitated towards teaching because I needed to get over that fear and lack of confidence in order to reach a happier state of being. Because I have!

Of course, it’s wonderful when the feedback is positive, but everyone will have different experiences. It’s a lot of pressure for new instructors, because you’re evaluated right out the gate. But as with anything, practice, experience, dedication, and a little sweat leads to leveling up, and clients notice!

Ideally, you refine your craft enough as an instructor that clients love you and you naturally build a following based off the quality of your teaching.

One of the best parts about teaching: we get to help people get healthier!

To me, there’s nothing more fulfilling than knowing I helped someone feel stronger, get in a good workout, let go of stress, and reconnect with their own power. It’s an honor to be in that position of influence as an instructor. We get to make the world a healthier place!

The hustle never stops.

Fitness instructors really are superstars. It’s a tough job, and they do it! Even though it’s challenging, it’s one of the most fun, exciting, energizing careers out there. Obviously I love teaching and have chosen to stay on this path for a reason. It’s addicting. There is nothing that compares to the high you get after teaching a great class.

If you’re passionate about fitness and want to dive all-in to making your dream teaching career come true, you can absolutely do it. Just know it will take work. (But don’t all of the best things in life?)

As with any entrepreneurial journey, if you can tough it out and continue to work hard, being a fitness instructor for a living is a dream within reach. It’s a dream I’m committed to, and I’m excited to see how it, along with my blogging career, unfolds over time.

THE SCORE MARATHON 21KM by AIA VITALITY 2022

It was the eve of Deepavali-The Festival of lights and my hubby a.k.a “sole”-mate and I decided to signed up for the SCORE 21KM HALF MARATHON AIA VITALITY. Yearly, the eve of Deepavali we would be busy preparing to celebrate the festival of lights, house cleaning, preparing variety of dishes, new clothes etc. Well of course, check list-DONE! But to us, Deepavali means “FAMILY”, as long as we have each other, everyday is celebration day!

Photography: credit/courtesy of Score Run Malaysia

And I wish I could tell you that I had the most wonderful half marathon and that it was exactly the cathartic physical experience I needed, and I had the runner’s high I’ve only ever fantasized about, but I can’t. I have to be honest. I didn’t do as well as I wanted to. In fact, I failed in almost every way. But I finished, and that was enough to make me proud. Finishing the race was an incredible accomplishment, especially after what I went through to get there.

It was nuts. At the Score Run Series races there are so many people. Not surprisingly it was super organized and the elite runners ran like a well oiled machine! You can expect that with SCORE RUN. The half marathon started at 4.15am. We had to be there at 3:30am so we left the house at around 2:30am and got up at 1.30am. I couldn’t sleep that night anyways, it was my best friend’s mum’s 80th birthday and I was boogie-ing and Bhangra-ing all night long on the dance floor- cardio warm exercise before race day, “VENI, VIDI, VINCI”- I came, I saw and I conquered the dance floor….only to realised I had only 2 hours of sleep before race day!

Photography credit: Melissa Tham

We parked at the designated parking area for runners, walked about 10 minutes from the starting point and were greeted with literally hundreds/thousands of people.

You know the drill…wait in line for port-a-potty, do your thing, get in corral and wait. That’s exactly what we did. 

Photography credit: Uncle Chan

The 1st KM or so starts off flat, passing along the iconic Putrajaya bridge, it was a lovely sight and an excellent opportunity to take off at a  brisk pace, taking advantage of the terrain to get in your groove and get the body to long distance ‘operating temperature’. If you’re no Speed-Racer, then settle in and find your happy place, taking time to look over to your right and appreciate the cornerstone of the amazing architecture of Putrajaya.

Photography Credit: Seven Days Photography

Someone once told me, she knew running wasn’t fun because you never see smiling runners. Though I was surrounded by a serious-faced mob, I thought I had probably never been in the midst of such uniform happiness. Our faces were serious, our minds focused but our bodies, every one of them, were smiling. If you are wondering just how it is exactly that a body can smile, you will have to run a half marathon to find out.

5 km – Fly like a butterfly, sting like a bee. Bring it on!

10 km – speed seems right, people around me are nice, the weather is nice – all is right in the world. Heart rate is a bit high, but I can’t drop the pace just yet

14 km – water station. Picked up a banana, took me a whole kilometer to swallow it fully. ‘Dropped’ the pace a bit just to stay on the safe side

17 km – oops, seems like a long hill ahead. “The old guy” in orange shirt went ahead. I guess it’s age before beauty this time

18 km – oh god, still climbing

But then, the terror was just about to begin….the hills and overall course elevation were really unlike anything I’ve run before in a half-marathon.

The roads were fully closed and the organisers truly  prioritise runners’ safety. For the first 5km the group I was running in stayed more or less together. A few people passed me. I passed a few people. We were all finding our own pace to run.

Many runners stopped and performed their obligation. It was a nice touch, where many Muslim friends prayed by the road side. The water stations were well organised and the set up was really well this time around. Water at every stops and Isotonic every alternate. Medical assistance and help were present with sponging stations as well. Many bins were placed for runners to dispose the paper cup and all. But the mentality of runners are still not matured enough to understand that the bins are for them to disposed their rubbish.

Traffic control was  excellent. Just a slight disappointment was the markers and arrows and signages were not very clear and confusing to us to know where we were, whether on the right track or the distance however the marshals guided runners in the right direction while directing traffic and a few key intersections.

The last 5km was a struggle. Anyhow, the route was altered  slightly after that. So many U-turns and the hills are alive……The hills, how do I put this, stairway to hell! I could actually feel runners around me going, “ohhhhhh Noooooooooo!” as we climbed out, but we soldiered on On a positive note, I was so touched by the cheers from passing runners. It made me feel awesome even though I was struggling! I appreciate each and everyone of them and I apologised I did not cheer back, I did in spirit! This is a huge tease to ALL- the hills that you have to run to get back at the 16 to 21km and to the finish. No matter how you slice and dice it (quite lumpy, but not in a torturous way). I hit the 18km, from here I played a run walk game, Run at a fastest pace, walk a bit, run a little, walk a bit. Legs throbbing a little, ankles hurting a little and head aching a little. Though my immediate concern was hunger..LOL

One thing that I have learned though racing in the past is that counting down to the finish is bad way to race, especially, in a long race. With that in mind, I set my body on cruise control and settle in for a long flight.

At the 18KM or so, nonetheless, mentally this is the hardest part of the race and where the half-marathon really begins.

At this point some runners are ‘hitting the wall’ or even cramping and are forced to a walk. It’s very demotivating to see and if you’re hurting yourself it’s even worse. So, there’s no better thing to do than face your demons and have a very long conversation with yourself.

Half-Marathon is just a lot of kilometers one after the other. I told myself to just focus on the next bit ahead of you – what you have now. Put one step in front of the other and that finish line will get closer.

The finish line soon became clear and one final push of any last remaining bits of energy we were home at last. Fabulous!

As you would expect the organisation once over the finish line was just as slick as on the course. We were presented with a gorgeous (very heavy) medal to show off, a finisher T-Shirt and finally the all important hydration of isotonic sports drink and a bottle of water. The really touching part also was the volunteers all giving us a clap as we walked through the finish area – after 21KM it was all very emotional!

At the finish line, we were safely moved along towards the exit, collecting our finisher’s T-shirt and medal as we did so. The entire event was a welcome break from the pandemic – a small slice of normality we treasured after months of training alone. From the organisers to the volunteers and race marshals, the event felt wonderfully safe and a fine example of how races can return in Malaysia.

All in all, this SCORE HALF MARATHON race is one I would recommend to others, and run again myself. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you about the hills!

Photography Credit: Seven Days Photography

TWINCITY HALF MARATHON 2022 RACE REVIEW:- ACCOMPLISHING THE IMPOSSIBLE

What do you do, when someone gives to you a mission impossible? You take it, change the “IMPOSSIBLE and make it “POSSIBLE”! It has been 2 years since I last ran a half marathon due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. This was the my first half marathon after 2 years, with ZERO training.

When I woke up this morning at 2.00am, it was raining cats and dogs in Seremban, so I woke my “Sole” my mate, my hubby with the hopes, he will tell me, ok let’s carry on sleeping but NOooooo…..with his sleepy voice he said,”Ai yahhhhh, only Seremban raining la, CyberJaya, No rain”!

So I dragged myself out of bed and I didn’t think I would run a half marathon, but that’s exactly what happened. This write-up is not about patting myself on the back, but rather sharing the inspiration that compelled me to do something like this in the hopes that you too will be inspired to push yourself beyond your comfort zone.

Race day morning was incredibly nerve-wrecking. I was up way earlier that I needed to be. I forced some peanut butter sandwich and coffee down, while my stomach felt like it was flipping over. But it’s time to nut up or shut up and off we go!

We arrived early, parked at a safe parking area. Adrenaline was flowing, nervous butterflies were dancing around in my belly. Hubby kissed me and said “see you at the finish line” and off we went to the start off area. Standing at the starting line was an overwhelming experience. Sharp 5.30am, 3……2…….1, we were flagged off! Oh Crap! I moved slowly like pushing a stalled car, praying that it will start. It was a perfect day, light breeze, just after the rain.

All my thoughts were positive and geared towards moving this machine of a body forward. It was a smooth flag off with plenty of room to manoeuvre.

It felt so fantastic, I just love the energy of races, it is so special and I love to see running bring so many people together to share such a positive common goal.

Eventually, I got into a steady pace and managed to keep going, the route we did for the 21KM half marathon was exactly the same as the previous years but blamed it on age or something, it had long gradual climb and long long long straight roads ahead. My energy was high and I was gleefully floating along the miles. The legs talked and I listened.

CREDIT PHOTO: SEVEN DAYS PHOTOGRAPHY
CREDIT PHOTO: ZAINI JAI

THE JOURNEY:-

5 km – Fly like a butterfly, sting like a bee. Bring it on!

10 km – speed seems right, people around me are nice, the weather is nice – all is right in the world. Heart rate is a bit high, but I can’t drop the pace just yet.

14 km – breakie time, food station. Picked up a banana and an isotonic drink. ‘Dropped’ the pace a bit just to stay on the safe side

17 km – oops, seems like a long long straight path ahead.

18 km – oh god, still climbing, walking,crawling

21 km – half-marathon – muscles still seem to function well

Along the way, there were sufficient water stations filled with fun-tastic and awesome volunteers. Cones and course markers, directions and so many traffic police and marshals were on duty and directions were extremely clear and organised and traffic control was excellent. The runners safety were their utmost top priority and I thanked the organisers for keeping us safe!

The route was a challenge in the second half of the race but I was able to negotiate those pretty okie. That is when I had to have the inner pep talk to keep it going! I stopped and walked a bit at every water station. Mostly so I could drink. I tried to pretend that I was a professional runner, with two cups in my hands and ran through and drank but I almost died due to drowning, so I accepted that I lacked a certain coordination and just walked through the rest and of course tried to smile at every photographers, a special thank you to all the photographers for capturing the moment and the memories of the TWINCITY MARATHON 2022.

There were times throughout the race when I wanted to cry just because I was so happy! I’m not saying that the whole 21KM was such a breeze that I was on cloud nine the whole time. What I am saying is that there- I was doing it! really doing it! Running 21 KM- A half marathon!

After the 18km hydration station, I tried to remind myself I only had 3KM left to do. I was already super tired and my feet hurt. But I still kept at it. At about 19KM, I gave in and walked some more, I walked about 1 KM maybe more. I wanted to be able to run to the finish so I was trying to preserve some energy and then I saw it, in the distance…the end……It took SO. FAR. AWAY. I can do this! Then I heard, “Sprint on in”! Just a few more meters! SPRINT ON IT! YOU CAN DO IT! Cheers and shouts along the sidelines in my directions. Sprint it on? Were they trying to kill me? I wasn’t sure at that point I could crawl. Blinking the sweat and tears in my eyes, I somehow sprinted to the finish line, turned my head and saw my hubby waving at me, I smiled for the camera, got my medal and my finisher T-shirt.

And at the 21KM, take off. Give it EVERYTHING you’ve got! And put that smile on your face because cameras are ready. Don’t just blow through the finish line. Throw your arms wide, jump, do something awesome because that is the moment you are going to want to remember for the REST of your life! You just ran a HALF MARATHON! A HALF MARATHON! YOU ARE AMAZING! YOU ARE INCREDIBLE! Wear your medal with pride, grab your goodies, eat that banana, take photos. Do that happy dance!

GoBhangra Workout

Bhangra is an energetic, folk dance and music form that originated from Punjab, India. Today, it’s the newest dance, music, and fitness phenomenon spreading all over the world. Bhangra is traditionally danced to the dhol instrument, a large drum, and boliyan, short sets of lyrics that describe scenes or stories from Punjab. These lyrics most commonly reference themes of love, patriotism, strength, and celebration.

Working up a sweat in the 60-minute classes burns an average of 369 calories. You’ll get a great cardio workout that melts fat, strengthens your core, and improves flexibility. The classes move between high- and low-intensity dance moves designed to get your heart rate up and boost cardio endurance.

WHAT IS GOBHANGRA WORKOUT?

GoBhangra Workout is a Bhangra and Bollywood inspired cardio dance fitness program using various choreography with upbeat music. It was founded in the year 2018 by founder, Jasveen Kaur from Johor, Malaysia. This program can burn a minimum of 500 calories per class (varies on individual) and helps to improve stamina, give strength to major muscles groups and plus gaining some flexibility. To ensure the safety of this program, GoBhangra Workout adapts and follows the guidelines of Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFFA). GoBhangra is one of the most fun and versatile fitness crazes to come along in a long time. Classes can be geared for just about any fitness level. Though Gobhangra Workout involves high-impact moves like bouncing and jumping, it can be modified to meet your needs. Between songs, you can grab water and take a second to catch your breath before the next song starts. The key interesting factor of GoBhangra Workout is the ability to blend in with the current fitness trend and enjoyed among different cultures creating a total fitness party for all! It has a unique focus which is simple, easy to follow & suitable for all fitness level!

Last Saturday, 16 October 2021,PRO A3 FITNESS was truly privileged, the founder, Jasveen Kaur was the special guest and she briefed us about the program and started off with a blast from warm up to hype bhangra cardio workout that kept the students of all levels head banging, booty shaking and feet stomping! It was a party atmosphere online! The weather and connection was super excellent and everyone had super duper amazing workout!

What makes GoBhangra unique and different?

  1. To teach and conduct this program, you must be a certified licensed instructor.
  2. It’s for all fitness level
  3. It’s a variety of Bhangra and Bollywood groove
  4. It’s a workout and you don’t even know it because of the fun and party atmostphere.
  5. Easy access and we are connected via online zoom
  6. Class fee is reasonable from RM10 to RM15 only
  7. Simple & easy steps to follow
  8. The instructors are trained, certified and qualified!

GoBhangra Workout provides a fun and positive workout experience with options appropriate for almost all ages and ability levels. There’s a lot of independent research to support the efficacy of the program and not much to detract from its potential benefits.

However, if you like dancing, fast-paced choreography, or Punjabi- Bollywood Groove inspired music, GoBhangra Workout is a good fit for you and if you’re also looking for an addictively fun, high-energy group dance workout set to upbeat music, GOBHANGRA WORKOUT is a great one to try. Join Christine every Saturday at 6pm on ZOOM ONLINE. For more information please contact 0196505370 or Facebook page at PRO A3 FITNESS or GOBHANGRA website.

“1001 Kenangan” Ramadan Buffet only at Thistle Port Dickson

Buka puasa during Ramadan this 2021 at this hotel, Thistle Port Dickson.

That’s right, it’s been quite awhile since we’ve been able to treat ourselves to a buffet due to the pandemic, but it’s a good thing that Thistle Port Dickson hotel is now able to host a sumptuous feast, all with strict SOPs in place, of course.

The menu is inspired by the tastes of nostalgia, giving the older generation a chance to share stories from their own childhood with the little ones – a beautiful chance for families to connect across age groups and pass on precious memories.

Flock over to Thistle Port Dickson for a truly lavish buka puasa buffet for Ramadan 2021. Among the attractions at the myriad of ‘stalls’ set up for Thistle’s Bazaar Malam are the Hainanese Chicken Rice stall, Roti John stall, Otak Otak and Satay stall, Roasted Whole Lamb, and Chinese Hot Wok stall, to name but a few options. The bazaar theme intends to evoke fond memories of a truly Malaysian icon, the hustle and bustle of a lively night bazaar market.

Guests will be spoilt for choice when it comes to desserts as well, with a host of delicious kuih-muih offered, including some for the durian lovers –Durian Crepe Cake and what’s a Malaysian celebration without our favourite fruit? Durian lovers will enjoy the selection of durian-inspired desserts.

If you never know what to eat, then 100 traditional Malay and Southeast Asian dishes to choose from may be a problem, or a blessing when you get to choose as many as you want. From those choices, the dishes you definitely need to sample include the Rendang Daging, Sambal Tumis Udang Galah, bringing diners a nostalgic buffet spread with kampong specialities inspired by old recipes, alongside classics from the Chef. All-time favourites include Rendang Daging Tok, Ikan Patin Masak Tempoyak and Sup Ekor.

With four rotational menus, you might have to keep coming back for more.…….

O, YUM, ALL YE FLAVORFUL @ RESTAURANT 3 SEKAWAN, S2 HEIGHTS.

Food is one of the most powerful connective tools we have. We build our bonds with friends and family over dinners, we go to restaurants on dates, we prepare food for others and with others. Food connects us to the world. Whether it’s a particular meal that reminds us of home comforts, or simply sustenance to get us through the day, food is never meaningless.

Food evokes memories and associations that are just as powerful as other cultural products, if not more so due to the fact that they stimulate all the senses.

At 3 Sekawan Restaurant, food doesn’t just bring back memories, it creates them too.

“3 Sekawan: Kim, Fling and Chris”

In this recent times, the Covid-19 pandemic, we try to stay safe. However, at 3 Sekawan, with the strict SOP and guidelines you will receive when dining with others here, you will also be contributing to a stronger community. That’s right – eating with friends and family is known to strengthen community bonds and build important friendships. Take time to laugh, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company over a delicious meal. You can choose from a variety of Eastern and Western dishes which are made from scratch and come in hearty portions. They also have lunch sets and tea-time promotions that are more economical.

The beautiful setting, with Malaysian touches, and complete with lots of memories filled with various spices, herbs and ingredients, was such a lovely, relaxed space within the restaurant to dine.

This is Calvin and Vivian’s first restaurant venture and as you walk into the gorgeous restaurant, it really feels like you have walked into someone’s house. The Malaysian batik concept print table cloths, the decor and even the music is all just so lovely and you feel instantly relaxed.

Sure, a cup of piping hot tea or coffee is a delight anytime of the day. But, nothing can match the priceless moments you have shared with your friends over a just a cup of tea or coffee at Restaurant 3 Sekawan. So, if you want to relive those chai/coffee moments with your friends, then don’t worries. You can recreate those moments here at Restaurant 3 Sekawan.  The endless chatter over a cup of iced Kopi-O is surely a match made in heaven just like you and your best friend, wouldn’t you agree?  

The extensive menu runs from East to West, One of the most popular dishes is the Nasi Lemak 3 Sekawan, a wholesome reinterpretation of nasi lemak, without coconut milk, combining pandan-infused brown rice with ayam rendang, poached egg, house-made sambal & caramelised onions. The rice itself may be a little less flavoursome than regular nasi lemak, but consumed with everything else, it remains a worthwhile experience that conveys many of the pleasures of a nasi lemak platter, but notably with Restaurant 3 Sekawan’s own distinctive ingredients, heartily portioned.

The greatest attraction to me was the space, how it was recreated from the original sitcom, “4 Sekawan” with the cool chill-out vibes. I could imagine getting a couple of friends to hang out for coffee and long chats to talk about the good old days.

Seremban Prima spreads joy of reading to underprivileged children

Help others discover the joy of reading by giving books, funding, and volunteering.

Remember the excitement of coming home after a long day and jumping back into your latest adventure, mystery, or love story? You pick up your book and get lost in its amazing world. You create your own version of the characters and the experiences are endless. That’s the magic of a good book, it takes you to places you’ve never been and teaches you things you never thought you’d learn.

The Seremban Prima Management, they remember that magic. For many of us, the experience of a book is so special, it has brought so much happiness to our lives. This is the joy they want to spread because they believe in the power of reading.

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On the 2 December 2020, due to the pandemic caused by Covid 19, Mr Narendra Kumar, GM of Seremban Prima decided to bring the mall to the people. Therefore, they brought the event to their home. Seremban Prima brought the magic of a library to the Pusat Kebajikan Kanak-kanak Shekinah Seremban. They launched a library and brought happiness and joy to the home.

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We’re in this together. We’re also seeking to activate the community through activities such as book clubs, community reading nooks, reading hours and various activities surrounding the joy of reading.

Come and be a part of the process. From setting up the libraries to collecting books, there’s lots to be done! We need books. Lots of them. Donate your favourite books from when you were growing up and help spread that joy! P.S. The shelf life of a book is a lifetime, there are no stories too old.

Share this posts on all your social media platforms, tell your friends all about us, put our posters up on your walls! We want to get the word out … We’re BRINGING BOOKS BACK!!

KL Standard Chartered Virtual Run 2020

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When you hear or read the term “virtual run”, first thought would probably be a controller in your hand and a character on a screen. LOL! However, in reality you are much more than player one! Virtual races or runs are almost exactly the same as “real” races and runs, but the difference is that you race remotely, instead of showing up to the site, you run anywhere! You then finish your race by simply logging your KM online. Virtual races and runs bring the fun and healthy competition of a race to your every run! Walk or run……………it’s up to you!

Last Saturday, 12 December I made my children and hubby wake up at 5.00am to join me for the KL Standard Chartered Virtual Run. This run was the first family run for 2020 due to the pandemic Covid 19 that has affected so many lives all around us. I looked forward for races that I can bring the family along and find something for everyone to enjoy. On race day, I woke up at ridiculously early to start fueling and stretching but without travel and parking to worry about. We couldn’t asked for better weather conditions for the race day. It was incredibly a gorgeous day!

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I just love the energy of races, it is so special and I love to see running bring so many people together to share such a positive common goal. I ran along wih my hubby, my daughters, aged 17 and 15 and my 13 year old son too. This world needs a lot more happy moments like these.

The day has come and gone, the most eagerly anticipated KL Standard Chartered virtual run 2020, boasting almost 40,000 participants. So, with us, this race is personal. It’s a commitment to always go the distance, no matter what. To nodding to other runners along the route, to pushing ourselves beyond our proposed mortal limits and to generally have a great and fun time as a family.

We walked, we ran, we jumped, we skipped, we danced the zumba- woots woots….I loved every minute of it and I have no idea how, what my time was!

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It was so nice to care about our quality time, family bonding time instead of keeping pace throughout the race. We made so many awesome memories, laughed until our sides ached and got some really awesome pictures. Would we do it again??? YOU BET!! What was the best part? ALL OF IT……..