At Dulwich College (Singapore), we focus on developing confident, compassionate, and outward-looking young individuals with a passion for lifelong learning. In Senior School (Year 7 – 13), our curricula is aligned to progressively prepare students for success in life beyond school:
Lower Senior School (Years 7 – 8)
Emotional Intelligence, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: During this critical time in a student’s education, we focus on developing effective learning strategies and self-awareness of individual strengths and areas for improvement. Students work with subject specialists to explore topics in-depth, building skills and foundational knowledge in multiple subjects. This stage aims to build critical thinking skills and encourage personal reflection on their strengths and weaknesses.
Middle Senior School (Years 9 – 11)
Collaboration, Communication, Creativity and Innovation: Putting their self-reflection and critical thinking to the test, students are given a unique opportunity to have more choice and ownership over their education by creating a tailored curriculum that suits their personal interests and goals. Unlike other schools, we offer a three-year IGCSE programme, giving students extra time to develop important skills across different subjects. This approach allows students to learn at their own pace, enabling them to go through the College with enhanced research, self-management, communication, and social interaction skills.
“The IB programme motivates students to develop using the Dulwich values of Determination, Courageousness, Skilfulness and Graciousness. The programme urges time management and organisation skills which allow me to face future life with a well-developed toolkit.”
– Amelie Dura, Year 13, Head Student
Upper Senior School (Years 12 – 13)
Lifelong Learning, Resilience and Career Preparation: To channel passion into execution, our students study the globally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB), selecting the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP). The IBCP was developed for students who wish to engage in career-related learning while gaining transferable and lifelong skills. Both emphasise life skills like open-mindedness, care, principled moral behaviour, and curiosity through inquiry.
The College’s IBDP programme fosters individuals who excel intellectually, emotionally, ethically, and academically. Offering a broad range of subjects often not found at other schools in Singapore (e.g. Health Sciences), we can tailor each student’s education. This allows students to delve deeper into their interests and combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills. In turn, this develops essential personal and professional skills for an ever-changing job market, providing authentic experiences in their desired career path.
Our IB students are supported along by our professional University Counselling and Career Programme. In 2023, our 118 IBDP students received an average score of 36.8. Notably, 33% scored 40 or higher, and three achieved a perfect 45 points. Also last year, 96% of our students went to the university of their choice.
The New Zealand High Commission in Singapore is a proudly diverse community of individuals and strongly supports the role of women in the workplace. Meet High Commissioner Gabby Rush, Trade Commissioner Maggie Christie, and Defence Adviser Shauna Graham to discover more about their work and home lives.
From left: Maggie Christie, Shauna Graham and Gabby Rush
How long have you been in Singapore?
Maggie: Just over three years. We arrived in Singapore in February 2021 – me, my husband and two slightly reluctant teenage boys.
Shauna: Twelve months, but I was previously posted to Singapore in 2012 – 2015 and I’m living right next door to my old house in Sembawang!
Gabby:I arrived in Singapore over Lunar New Year 2023 with my partner and two well-travelled Hong Kong cats!
What is the main focus of your role?
MAGGIE: New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE) is New Zealand’s trade promotional agency so our role here in Singapore is supporting and guiding companies to grow into Singapore and South East Asia. For me, it’s working with our Business Development Managers and our customers to validate, enter and grow in Singapore. This includes everything from market insights, introductions to local connections, and buyers to partner. We also provide strategic services and support to inform market entry and growth plans – both from New Zealand and here in Singapore. The other part of my role is building relationships in Singapore to help raise awareness and understanding of what New Zealand can offer, and provide a warmer landing for companies.
Shauna: As Defence Adviser to Singapore, Vietnam and Cambodia I’m the New Zealand Chief of Defence Force’s representative in those countries. I engage with local senior Defence officials to share New Zealand’s position on Defence and Security issues and learn from Singapore, Vietnam and Cambodia about regional issues. I look for new opportunities for our nations to work together from niche information sharing events like the NZ/SG Defence Women’s Forum last year, to large scale annual military exercises that New Zealand has been supporting for over 50 years.
Gabby:As High Commissioner, I’m the official representative of the Government of New Zealand in Singapore. I help deliver New Zealand’s foreign and trade policy goals and coordinate New Zealand’s diplomatic links with the government here. A key focus for me is advancing work under the Singapore New Zealand Enhanced Partnership which was established between the two governments in 2019. Outside of core foreign and trade policy goals, I try to represent what is best about our country and highlight our cultural links with Singapore including through music and the arts.
What’s your favourite thing about Singapore?
Maggie: Firstly, the diversity of the culture – the people, the food, the language – you can visit three ‘countries in one day’ – Chinatown,Little India and Arab street! Also, the centrality of Singapore for travel and adventures.
Shauna: The academic, sporting and cultural opportunities for my son and the amazing life experiences and family memories we’re creating.
Gabby:It is leafy and green and full of interesting, friendly people from many different cultures. I respect the work ethic here and intellectual rigour, but I love that Singaporeans also have a good sense of humour and enjoy having fun.
What’s been your biggest accomplishment since you’ve been here?
Maggie: Along with NZ Inc., delivering our first Prime Minister Mission post Covid. I was so green, and then got Covid on the day of their arrival! The success was seeing every member of the remarkable team pull it off with passion, grace and utter commitment.
Shauna: Supporting two Royal New Zealand Navy Ships in Singapore and Vietnam last year; the ships and crews completed large scale training, maintenance and diplomatic engagement activities during their deployment to the region. It is great to see New Zealand operating with our partners in support of regional security.
Gabby:Acclimatising to the heat!
What do you miss most about NZ?
Maggie: Of course my family! But aside from that, walking along the beach early in the morning, feeling the sand between my toes, the fresh breeze on my face and Rangitoto in the background.
Shauna: The accent. (*Editor’s note – this was her actual answer, we didn’t make this up!)
Gabby:My good friends and family, but also the temperate weather, home grown veggies from my garden, the view from Mt Kaukau in Wellington and the joy I get from ocean swimming year-round.
What key life lesson would you like to pass on to girls this International Women’s Day?
Maggie: Don’t second guess yourself. The amount of times I have held myself back thinking I’ll do it when I know a little more or when I’m more confident … that time never comes so you need to grab opportunities with both hands and make the most of them. You learn the most when you fail!
Shauna: Be adventurous. Set goals and run at them with all the energy enthusiasm and determination you can muster.
Gabby:You don’t have to be perfect to succeed. No matter how accomplished we are, everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and up and down times. Learn what your strengths are, work hard to succeed, but when things don’t work out know it’s just part of your journey.
Are you passionate about padel tennis and eager to connect with fellow enthusiasts? Look no further! Our brand new ANZA Padel group is the perfect place for players of all levels to come together, have fun, and improve their game.
To join ANZA Padel register HERE (one time registration). Once you have registered you will be able to book sessions below. You will also receive a link to join the ANZA Padel WhatsApp group. This will be used for group communications, session lists and booking reserve spots.
Singapore on the 20th August 2023, during the MENS PRO Race at the PTO Asian Open at Marina Bay, Singapore, (Photo: That Cameraman/PTO)
One of the most scenic sports events of the year is here.
After a successful rebrand, the Singapore T100 (formerly known as the PTO Asian Open) has unveiled its stunning course set to take place on April 13 and 14 in the heart of Marina Bay.
Whether it’s the T100 triathlon (2km swim/80km bike/18km run) or the shorter duathlon races (Standard – 45km run/32km cycle/4.5km run; Long – 9km run/64km cycle/9km run), professional and amateur athletes alike will find themselves surrounded by amazing views and landmarks of Singapore as they take on their respective races. Do note that a slight change from last year’s route will see the transition area for the duathlon races housed at the Promontory instead, adding an extra 500m to the run.
The route includes:
A 2km freshwater swim in Marina Bay – Competitors will set off in a rolling start format from the pontoon and large marker buoys will guide them around the Bay on a point-to-point swim. With a usual water temperature of 28°C, it is a non-wetsuit swim.
A challenging 80km cycle on closed roads – The multi-lap 16km circuit will start and finish at the Bayfront Event Space and take athletes up the famous Benjamin Sheares Bridge to give panoramic views of the city.
A flat 18km run on the waterfront promenade – Set against the world famous sights of Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Barrage, the fast run provides a scenic backdrop to complete the 100km journey.
Participants will also get to enjoy sea and city views atop the Marina Barrage and be able to catch a glimpse of iconic landmarks such as the Singapore Flyer, Fullerton Hotel and the ArtScience Museum. Roads along the route will be closed, allowing athletes to participate safely.
Singapore on the 19th August 2023, during the WOMENS PRO Race at the PTO Asian Open at Marina Bay, Singapore, (Photo: That Cameraman/PTO)
Returning for its second edition, the Singapore T100 will again feature mass participation triathlon and duathlon races as well as a competitive 100km triathlon featuring some of the world’s top professional triathletes.
With a multi-lap course for each leg of the race, the Singapore T100 is the place to be for a front-row seat to world-class triathlon action. Spectators can witness their favourite athletes in action live or cheer loved ones on up-close at spectator zones along the course.
Eventgoers can also find an array of activities at the event village. An array of stalls will be available giving participants and fans plenty of food and beverage options. Over 30 sports and lifestyle vendors will also have booths selling merchandise and quality sports gear. Kids also get to enjoy exciting activities such as basketball, mini golf and air hockey.
With something for everyone, the Singapore T100 is the place to be.
If you think traditional museums are boring, Singapore’s “mini museums” could change your mind. Street Corner Heritage Galleries have now launched in Katong-Joo Chiat, allowing visitors to discover the history behind six foodie heritage businesses in the area, each with a story of resilience, innovation and intergenerational piety. From one of Singapore’s oldest popiah makers, to the family producing Peranakan classics, pay them a visit to find out more. nhb.gov.sg
Art Walkabout returns
OH! Open House’s signature art walkabout is back, this time uncovering the layers of Kampong Gelam’s history. Did you know that Kampong Gelam was once the literary capital of the Malay World and the place where the literati came to exchange ideas, discuss and debate? OH! Kampong Gelam will feature 11 artworks by local and international artists highlighting this interesting past. Mr Ibrahim Tahir, founder of Wardah Books in Kampong Gelam since 2002, says, “Not many people recall this history. We hope to remind people of this legacy by working with OH! for this art walkabout.” 30 March – 12 May klook.com
Don’t just look – book!
Theatre The Death of Singapore is a kooky play set in the Lion City. Before any theatre show hits the stage here, the script must first be sent to the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA) for approval. This play covers what happens when a playwright and IMDA officer come to a disagreement, as well as looks into how theatre in SG has been regulated over the years. 14 – 30 March.
Wild Rice at Funan, 107 North Bridge Road, Level 4 Funan Mall, 179105 sistic.com.sg
Image: Zackery Michael Pop Niall Horan returns to Singapore after six years for a one-off gig at Singapore Indoor Stadium in May. See the former One Direction member perform tunes from all of his three solo albums, including new album, The Show. 9 May.
2 Stadium Walk, 397691 ticketmaster.sg
Kids
Humour, horror and horticulture collide in Little Shop of Horrors, a smash-hit musical that has been going for over 30 years. There’s just one important rule for rocking up to see this – don’t feed the plants! 12 – 28 April.
Sota Drama Theatre, 1 Zubir Said Drive, 227968 sistic.sg
Comedy
Trevor Noah, comedian and the “best host ever” according to Taylor Swift (apparently), is coming to tickle our funny bones. His Off The Record Tour takes place on 3, 4 & 5 June, and as it’s the first time the South African comedian has performed in SG since 2019, we predict a riot! 1 Vista Exchange Green, #04-01, 138617 thestar.sg
Musical
Award-winning musical Miss Saigon is coming to Sands Theatre from 15 August. This beautiful story about love, loss and resilience follows the relationship between a young Vietnamese woman and her American G.I. love interest. A bit of a blub is practically guaranteed. 10 Bayfront Avenue, 018956 sistic.com.sg
Many rules for personal finance success remain the same wherever in the world you are. However, there are ways to ensure that when you move on from Singapore and return ‘home’, you have more than some hazy memories and a Chinese sideboard to take with you. David Reynolds, Partner, Select Investors shares some tips on how to keep on top of your finances while living an expat life overseas.
#1: Save 20% of your income
You now live in Singapore, and you’re probably paying less income tax than you are used to, or than you would in Australia, New Zealand, UK, or many other countries. Don’t let that opportunity pass you by. It’s easy to ‘increase your lifestyle’ when receiving this ‘pay rise from the inland revenue’. The people who are the most successful with their finances will be saving the extra funds and accelerating their wealth building. If you can, don’t stop at 20%, but it is a great rule of thumb.
#2: Mind the gap
Unless you’re a Singapore Citizen or PR, you likely won’t have any automatic retirement savings, such as a Superannuation or Pension. These are often the prime earning years of your life, don’t let a gaping hole appear in your compounding growth of retirement savings. Plug that gap, and make sure you’re putting those monies that would be invested back home into investments.
#3: Be mindful of your future tax
One of the many brilliant things about living in this island city-state is the opportunity to invest and make capital gains without liability for capital gains taxes. When you leave Singapore, this will no longer be the case and you will be likely back to a more onerous regime. Depending on where you’re heading next there could be an opportunity to protect those tax-free benefits for the long-term, and even for succession planning. The earlier in your time here that you start, the better, don’t leave it too late and regret not doing it earlier. Maximise all tax-efficiencies for the long-term as early as possible.
#4: Manage your company shares risk
Many people receive share awards as part of remuneration. After a few years this can build significantly and become a major part of your overall net worth. It’s important to divest periodically to avoid the concentration risk of relying on the performance of one company, whomever they may be. They pay your income and are responsible for your net worth, what would happen if it all ended?
#5: Avoid the high risk, be patient
With the ease of setting up trading accounts these days, everyone is an armchair tipster and it’s tempting to try to get rich quickly, by taking too much risk. It’s best to avoid buying and selling individual shares, and definitely very dangerous to use leverage (like CFDs – Contracts for Difference) or Foreign Exchange Trading, as the risk scale becomes incredibly high and probability states that you will lose more than you make. It will take too much time, energy, and stress. Invest in more diverse strategies that are likely to make you rich, slowly, like mutual funds or passive index funds.
#6: Don’t buy the future family residence too early
It’s tempting, and once you start looking, it’s amazing how you find that ‘one’ that you must buy. It likely won’t provide you with the best yield and being a cost centre and tax burden that you don’t need. Save buying the property until you are moving back or have actually moved home. It will save you money and stress.
#7: Don’t move your money using the bank
Your bank can take advantage of your loyalty. They generally do not offer you the best exchange rates, even if you are a ‘premier’ customer. Don’t fall for ‘zero commission’ marketing, as no broker charges commissions. Banks and brokers make their money at the spread between where they buy the currency, and then sell the currency to you. Shop around different brokers and get the best deal.
The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.
The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances. You are advised to seek independent tax advice from suitably qualified professionals before making any decision as to the tax implications of any investment.
The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851. St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.
The holy month of Ramadan marks the lead-up to Hari Raya and kicks off this year‘s Kampong Gelam Ramadan Bazaar at One Kampong Gelam. Stretching for almost five weeks from 2 March – 5 April, 2pm – 11pm, the fourth edition of this annual celebration is set to be bigger and better than ever.
Revellers can look forward to over 100 F&B and retail vendors selling delicacies and handicrafts, live cooking shows, light projections, traditional dance performances, and much more spread across Kandahar Street, Muscat Street and Baghdad Street in the heart of Kampong Gelam.
Always buzzy and beautiful, this event on Singapore’s packed cultural calendar is not to be missed. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere, sample local food, and enjoy the fun as the sun goes down around Bugis and the good times begin. Here’s what to look out for:
1. Light projections
This year’s Ramadan Bazaar happens to coincide with Sultan Mosque’s 200th-year celebration, so prepare for even more spectacular light projections in commemoration of this. Look out for fancy shapes shining onto the walls of Sultan Mosque every Friday to Sunday of the bazaar at 7:30pm.
2. Local films
Settle down for screenings of local documentaries and web series in Sultan Gate Park every night between 5:30pm – 10pm. Grab a takeaway before you pitch up and enjoy an open air screening as you dine. Documentary themes include travel, horror, and taboo (oooh!).
3. Live music
Not a film buff? Malaysian singers Tomok and Alif Satar, plus local talent Taufik Batisah are just some of the acts you can look forward to who’ll be putting on live performances and serenading you as you shop.
4. Cool art
This year’s bazaar will see the unveiling of the “Three Arch Design” art exhibition, also at Sultan Gate Park. These arches tell the lesser-known stories of the history of Kampong Gelam and come with a web series that visitors can watch online via QR codes on the arches.
5. Food, glorious food!
For now there are 80 F&B stalls and food trucks lined up to serve all manner of global culinary treats so no-one’s going to go hungry. While specifics remain under wraps, mainstays such as Broti and Kream will be returning.
6. A mass iftar
Want to be a record breaker? Take part in a scheduled mass iftar on 23 March at 7pm. Space is being made for 1,500 participants over 240 metres of Arab Street. Everyone is welcome and proceeds of the iftar will go to Sultan Mosque and other beneficiaries.
7. Bike action
On 17 and 24 March, more than 200 bikers will be riding from Ford Road to Kampong Gelam in a bid to give back to the community. The funds raised from the merch sold to bikers will be distributed to the event’s charity partners too.
8. And there’s more!
If you’re interested to discover more about the history of Kampong Gelam and the holy month of Ramadan during this special time, check out ANZA Tours. Our Kampong Gelam Ramadan Food Bazaar and Islamic Heritage tour on 26 March focuses on the people who settled in the area back in the day and continue to practice Islamic traditions. You’ll see mosques, learn about the bazaar, and visit specialty shops. Log on here for more info and to sign up.
Find further updates about the bazaar on Instagram here. Note that the bazaar will end on 5 April, four days before the end of Ramadan, as the organiser wants to make sure the precinct is in “tip-top condition” for prayers.
Join us at Boomarang for morning tea and to learn more about the ANZA community.
For those new to Singapore or even if you’ve been here a while, come and join us for morning tea!
Thriving in Singapore, an event that welcomes ANZA New Members, will be held 9:30am – 11:30am on Wednesday, 20 March, at Boomarang, Robertson Quay.
Discover what it means to be part of the ANZA community and learn about our exciting upcoming events, endless engaging activities and interest groups that are just waiting for you to be part of.
For newbies, Thriving in Singapore is a brilliant opportunity to find out about the important legal and financial implications of living in the Lion City, including all you need to know about critical guardianship documents that parents need to put in place. Also, get informed on any latest medical issues and where to find medical support should you need it while living here.
Stand a chance to win a T2 Tea Gift Pack from our Premier Partner Select Investors, a bag full of Ego products and a dining voucher worth $180 by Santi’s.
The morning will wrap up with tea overlooking the scenic Singapore River. We welcome you to linger longer to enjoy the venue and the Boomarang menu.
We promise a lovely morning and a warm welcome to ANZA. If you’re flying solo don’t be shy, the ANZA team will be there to greet you.
Langkawi is always a good idea. Less than a two hour flight from Singapore, it’s a stress free destination and favourite of the long-weekend crew looking for a fly’n’ flop. But away from the alluring beaches, there’s a whole world of historical, biological and cultural heritage, and Temple Tree Resort Langkawi embraces it all.
THE ACCOMMODATION
The resort is like no other. Consisting of eight distinct heritage houses, the designers of Temple Tree sourced each home from across Peninsular Malaysia and relocated it to Langkawi. That’s right – they carefully took each building apart, transported it for miles, and rebuilt it as a time capsule with all of the original external features retained. Aged 80 to 120 years old, each house is beautifully restored and symbolises a unique facet of Malaysia’s cultural mosaic, showcasing styles from Malay, Chinese, Indian, Peranakan, and Euro-Asian traditions. The stilted structures, open verandas, high ceilings, wooden floors, ornate tiles, and wood carvings add a touch of nostalgia, captivating visitors and feeling like a tapestry of time. All of this makes the resort ideal for multi-generational families seeking ample space to connect whilst on holiday. For our group of seven adults, it was like stepping into a bygone era.
Straits House
My housemate and I were delighted to discover Straits House, complete with a private swimming pool and large garden, was to be our sanctuary for the duration of our stay. Ideal for large families or groups of up to eight, Straits House boasts four bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom. A spacious living room, private pool, and lush gardens create an inviting atmosphere. Outdoor dining is encouraged on the generous deck, and Temple Tree’s onsite chef stands ready to craft culinary delights.
Negeri Sembilan House
Formerly a family home in Mantin, this raised single-story house is now a luxurious suite with two bedrooms and a sweeping front veranda. Great for families of four, it offers a glimpse into the architectural beauty of the Malaysian state of Negeri Sembilan.
Johor House
Originally a Chinese farmhouse with Taiwanese design influence, charming Johor House boasts a rosy exterior that began its journey in Batu Pahat, Johor, around a century ago. The family’s legacy is palpable in the design, with a family portrait adorning Johor 2. This property accommodates up to five guests across two spacious suites, both boasting glorious verandas.
Colonial House
Built in the 1920s by Arab goldsmiths, Colonial House is a grand home that once stood proud in George Town, Penang. It blends East and West where Peranakan floor tiles and intricate European cornices tell a tale of cultural fusion. Ideal for multi-generational family stays thanks to varying room formats and living spaces.
Penang House
Reflecting 131 years of British influence, Penang House intertwines local, Chinese, Indian, and Islamic elements. Erected in the 1930s next to Gurney Drive in Penang, the original exterior colours and entrance still stand strong. Its two 70sqm suites connect with double doors yet maintain separate entrances and living spaces.
Plantation House
Originally a spacious Malay artisan’s dwelling from 1900, Plantation House evolved into a grand two-storey colonial-style abode. Built on Penang Island’s plantation area, it was later acquired by a Chinese Hakka family in 1920, earning the moniker “Tua Chua” or big house. Today, it comprises six suites and common areas include lounge spaces and a semi-open-air courtyard.
Estate House
For solo travellers or couples seeking quiet downtime, the Estate House provides a cosy haven. This long single-story building, originally from Pasir Puteh, Ipoh, is reminiscent of plantation estate lodgings from the early to mid-20th century. Terracotta floors, white walls, and thick wooden beams all add to the charisma. Some suites offer a private bathtub and a small garden made for afternoon tea.
Ipoh House
The Grand Dame of the resort, Ipoh House is an absolute gem dating back to the early 1900s. Divided into two parts, the back section flaunts Aceh-style architecture from 1900, while the front exudes the colonial style of 1903. Today, Ipoh House is a chic retro restaurant bar and reception lounge. The bar, strategically positioned in the middle, offers a stunning 360-degree view of the entire resort.
Temple Tree Resort’s commitment to preservation extends beyond the exterior of the homes, encompassing thoughtfully curated interiors that retain the original charm while providing modern amenities. Luxurious bedding, fully air-conditioned spaces, and contemporary conveniences like WiFi, digital entertainment, and optional TV streaming services, are all on tap if you need them.
THE FOOD
Heritage dishes
During our four day stay, our dining experiences at Paloh Restaurant & Bar housed in Ipoh House took us through a mix of both local and international flavours. This all-day restaurant and bar offers a buffet or A La Carte breakfast, and à la carte lunch and dinner. The menu is a delightful fusion of cuisine, showcasing signature dishes like Paloh Nyonya Laksa, Ikan Bakar, Paloh Nutri Salad, and homemade pizzas. We enjoyed heritage-inspired dishes such as Daging Salai Cili Api (Negeri Sembilan), Char Kway Teow (Penang), Ipoh Hor Fun (Perak), Curry Debal (Melaka), and more.
As the sun clocks out, Paloh Restaurant & Bar goes into full glow-up mode serving innovative bites, drinks, and good vibes. The beverage menu has an impressive wine list, plus cocktails that are liquid poetry. One of the highlights was Monday’s “Music Under the Stars” when the garden turned into party central with the resident band, Lamh & Co., dishing out tunes from every corner of the universe: think acoustic guitars and sound bell drums in a musical love affair. This allowed us to belt out our best sing-along efforts under the Langkawi night sky.
THE ACTIVITIES
Dream Forest
Nestled within serene surroundings, Temple Tree Resort offers easy access to adventure activities and provides a haven to those seeking relaxation. Upon entering its peaceful embrace, the bustling hub of Cenang Beach fades away rapidly. The resort provides two lap pools – one within the lush gardens and another in the Straits House – inviting guests to unwind and cool off. For those seeking ultimate chill, Temple Tree Spa awaits, offering long list of massages.
Yoga amidst heritage
Our journey into Zen unfolded as soon as we awoke thanks to the soothing sounds of nature. Keen to maintain serenity, we rose early for a transformative yoga session held in the Colonial House where others in our group were staying. Our session was guided by seasoned instructor Mohamad Jamil bin Mohamad Salleh (Jamil). Upon admitting our collective lack of bendability, Jamil quickly reassured us that his teachings were centred around breathwork, and each person’s unique journey of self-discovery and inner tranquility. The harmonious blend of Hatha and Yin yoga, presented in a basic class, offered insights into both physical and mental wellbeing.
Creative Expression with Batik Lagenda
Following lunch, we embraced our artistic flair through Batik Lagenda, a family-operated venture led by Nordi Bahrin and his mother. Focused on exclusive batik sessions, they provided a cultural immersion into this art form. During the two-hour session, we delved into the cultural history of Batik and learned techniques before unleashing our individual creativity and bringing our artistic visions to life. We ended the session with a framed creation of our artwork to take home.
Pantai Cenang Beach
Dragging ourselves away from the paradise of Temple Tree wasn’t easy. However, the siren calls of Pantai Cenang Beach, just a breezy 10-minute stroll away, was too tempting to resist. This beach offers a smorgasbord of activities to suit all holiday makers. You can dive into a variety of water sports, join in a beach game, or just become one with your beach towel and soak up the sun. As night falls, the beach transforms into a vibrant strip of bars and restaurants. When the night sky decides to show off, you’re treated to a mini-fireworks spectacle – Langkawi’s own nightly light show. Nearby, ‘beach buskers’ perform captivating stunts, adding a touch of magic to the post-sunset ambience.
The Cliff Restaurant
The Cliff Restaurant is Langkawi’s culinary and social haven. Overlooking Pantai Cenang beach, we started with a delightful session of cocktails against the backdrop of a stunning sunset before venturing indoors to savour local culinary treasures. The cuisine, marked by its freshness and flavours, adds an extra layer to The Cliff’s overall allure. theclifflangkawi.com
Shop, shop, shopping!
Take a leisurely walk to Cenang Mall, the big player in the local shopping scene, staying alive and buzzing till late. Pantai Cenang Beach isn’t just a beach; it’s a blend of nature doing its thing, a dash of adventure, some seriously tasty local eats, and nightlife that’s more laid-back fiesta than all-night rave. Consider this your open invitation to the chill side of life!
Dream Forest Langkawi
For those seeking a magical escape, enchanting Dream Forest awaits. Stroll amongst suspended walkways offering panoramic views of the verdant canopy and enter hidden caves filled with secrets and wonders. Enjoy educational exhibits, and engage with interactive displays to deepen your connection with the great outdoors. Choose from well-marked trails catering to different fitness levels. Conveniently located in close proximity to Temple Tree resort, Dream Forest is a fabulous evening out for families looking for a unique and scenic adventure away from the buzz of urban life. dreamforest.com.my
Verdict: Temple Tree Resort Langkawi offers a harmonious blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and natural wonders. From relaxation amidst heritage to the enchanting escapade of Dream Forest, every moment becomes a timeless journey. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, a stay here with its surrounding attractions promises an immersive experience, creating memories that linger long after your Langkawi adventure concludes.
Lot 1053, Jalan Pantai Chenang, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia. templetree.com.my
OH! Open House’s signature art walkabout is back, this time uncovering the layers of Kampong Gelam’s history. Did you know that Kampong Gelam was once the literary capital of the Malay World and the place where the literati came to exchange ideas, discuss and debate? OH! Kampong Gelam will feature 11 artworks by local and international artists highlighting this interesting past. Mr Ibrahim Tahir, founder of Wardah Books in Kampong Gelam since 2002, says, “Not many people recall this history. We hope to remind people of this legacy by working with OH! for this art walkabout.”
The Death of Singapore is a kooky play set in the Lion City. Before any theatre show hits the stage here, the script must first be sent to the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA) for approval. This play covers what happens when a playwright and IMDA officer come to a disagreement, as well as looks into how theatre in SG has been regulated over the years.
Many rules for personal finance success remain the same wherever in the world you are. However, there are ways to ensure that when you move on from Singapore and return ‘home’, you have more than some hazy memories and a Chinese sideboard to take with you. David Reynolds, Partner, 
The holy month of Ramadan marks the lead-up to Hari Raya and kicks off this year‘s 
Langkawi is always a good idea. Less than a two hour flight from Singapore, it’s a stress free destination and favourite of the long-weekend crew looking for a fly’n’ flop. But away from the alluring beaches, there’s a whole world of historical, biological and cultural heritage, and
