KLSCM 2024: 42,000 Runners Taking to the Streets of Kuala Lumpur

The country’s premier distance running event, the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) 2024, kicked off its 16th edition today with its largest number of participants yet. 42,000 runners will be converging on the iconic Dataran Merdeka over two days on 5 and 6 October, with the 5km, 10km and Kids Dash categories having taken place on the first day. The blue-ribbon Full Marathon and Half Marathon categories took place on day two with intense competition expected from the top runners.

The Boost Juice 10km got the ball rolling where in the Men’s Open category, KLSCM debutant Japhet Rono from Kenya clinched the win in a time of 33:14. “This is my first time participating in the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon and although I didn’t expect it, I thank God for giving me the strength to win,” said Rono. “I look forward to participating in the next edition in 2025,” he added.

Japanese Airlines, JAL and ANA Offers Free Domestic Flights for International Travelers

In the travel industry, there is a term for Japan called the Golden Route. It basically means the popular travel route of travellers from Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka or vice versa. The reason why this is a common route for travellers to Japan is because there are three major international airports (Haneda, Narita and Kansai Airport) connecting two major cities, Tokyo and Osaka for international travellers to fly into. Plus, the Shinkansen connects all three cities, making it a kill three birds in one situation for tourists. 

But as a result, overcrowding and an influx of tourists to these areas has become prevalent. To combat this, Japanese airlines like ANA has introduced discounted or complimentary domestic flights to other parts of Japan when booked with your international flights. I have used this service quite a few times to travel to Sapporo, Okinawa and Nagoya and I will share that it was very convenient for jetting across the country without having to touchdown in the major hubs. 

KLSCM 2024: Epic Battle for Full Marathon: Malaysian Category Heats Up

The 16th edition of the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) 2024 is set to be a thrilling spectacle, with elite athletes vying for the prestigious Full Marathon Malaysian Men’s title. Two-time champion Poo Vasanthan faces stiff competition from five-time KLSCM winner Muhaizar Mohamad and last year’s runner-up Nik Fakaruddin, along with rising stars Muhamad Haziq, Vimal Govendarajoo, and Jacob Wong Yize. 

KLSCM 2024: The Best Excuse for a Runcation

I am no stranger to the concept of a runcation. Heck, it's easier telling people you are flying off to Japan yet again for a marathon than it is telling them you are simply just flying off to Japan for the umpteen time for fun. 

For many foreigners outside of Malaysia, the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) is exactly just that runcation for them. 

KLSCM has firmly established itself as the premier distance running event in Malaysia, attracting thousands of runners from all corners of the globe. As we approach the 2024 edition, taking place on the 5th and 6th of October, this celebrated race promises to be bigger and better than ever. With a record-breaking 42,000 participants expected, including local and international athletes, this marathon has become a much-anticipated annual highlight.

Kawaguchiko Autumn 5 Days Self-Drive Itinerary

Like most people who have visited Tokyo, Japan, Kawaguchiko was definitely on my list of places to explore - famous for its generous views of Mount Fuji and lake. The town is easily accessible by train and highway bus and getting around the town itself can be done on foot, car, bike or even by their local bus. 

So naturally when I dragged my group of friends along for the Fujisan Marathon, I was determined to make the most of our 4 days in Kawaguchiko and even then, we didn't cover everything. I have visited Kawaguchiko before in 2017 on a solo trip, during which I ran and cycled around the lake and has since been in love with the town. This was of course simpler times when the town was still relatively under the radar for most. 

KLSCM 2024: The Race is on for Charity

As professional and avid runners gear up for the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) 2024 – Malaysia’s biggest marathon and arguably the most popular in the region – records have already been broken before the October race, in more ways than one.

Some 42,000 runners have signed up for the race this year, breaking last year’s record of 40,000 participants. At more than 12,500, the number of Full Marathon participants is also the largest ever since KLSCM’s inception, or any full-distance road-running event in Malaysia, for that matter. The sign-ups for the Half Marathon, totalling 13,770, is a record-breaking number too.

Discover the Magic of Singapore with AirAsia's New 'Love, Singapore' Aircraft Livery

AirAsia, in collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), Gardens by the Bay, and Mandai Wildlife Group, has just unveiled the stunning ‘Love, Singapore’ aircraft livery. This exciting launch is part of a joint campaign aimed at boosting inbound travel to Singapore from Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, particularly during the bustling year-end travel season.

Essential Tips to Beating Brain Fatique with Brand's Essence of Chicken

Have you ever sat down to start a task at work only to find your mind drawing blanks? No matter how hard you try, do you struggle to focus, experience sluggish thoughts, and have difficulty remembering details? 

You’re not alone. If you've never experienced it, you are probably not human. 

Brain fatigue is a state of tiredness caused by prolonged periods of cognitive activities stemming from an overload of our mental capacity. It is also important to know that the brain consumes about 20 percent[1] of the body’s energy — processing and transmitting information through electrical signals — is very expensive in energy use.

Iman Troye's New Hit "Teman Malam" Debuts with Kotex Total Protection Launch

A Star-Studded Launch Event
Iman Troye captivated audiences with her mesmerizing vocals at the launch of her new song "Teman Malam." This original track, created in collaboration with the leading sanitary pad brand Kotex, was unveiled during the launch of the new Kotex Total Protection range at Sunway Velocity. The Malaysian pop sensation shared how the brand creatively positioned "Teman Malam" as a playful nod to her popular 2020 hit, "Teman."

Celebrate 13 Years of Luck at Tokyo Street's Maneki Neko Matsuri!

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and adorable lucky cats at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur's Tokyo Street!

From now until August 13th, Tokyo Street is celebrating its 13th anniversary with a purrfectly delightful "Maneki Neko Matsuri" (Lucky Cat Festival) theme. Get ready for kawaii culture, traditional charm, and endless possibilities to experience the best of Japan!

Experience Authentic Japanese Fine Dining at KOKU by RIYAZ International in Langkawi

RIYAZ International has unveiled KOKU Japanese Restaurant and Zen Garden at The RIYAZ Lavanya Langkawi, marking the arrival of Langkawi's first authentic fine dining Japanese restaurant.

Exclusive Offers at the Experience Macao Malaysia Roadshow at Sunway Pyramid, 5- 8 July

SJM Resorts, S.A. (SJM) is thrilled to announce its participation in the "Experience Macao Malaysia Roadshow," organized by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) from July 5-8. This exciting event, held at the Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall in Kuala Lumpur, will showcase Macau’s rich "Tourism+" elements to Malaysians and tourists.

Langkawi: 4 Day Itinerary for Family Adventure

Langkawi isn't just a romantic getaway where the beaches are beautiful and the treats are cheap; it's a playground waiting to be explored by families! This 4-day itinerary is designed with parents in mind, ensuring there's fun for all ages with kid-friendly activities, delicious eats, and enough relaxation to keep everyone happy.

Introducing the ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 31: Experience Stability and Advanced Comfort in Every Step

Are you a runner looking for a shoe that provides stability and comfort throughout your entire run? Then look no further than the ASICS GEL-KAYANO™ 31! This latest iteration of the popular running shoe series is designed to offer an exceptional running experience for runners of all abilities.

Refreshed Upper for Enhanced Comfort and Breathability

CzipLee (集 利): SOMe Market 3.0 - Stationery & Journaling Market

Rooted in tradition yet forward-looking, CzipLee, a family-run stationery and books store is synonymous with quality stationery, artistic treasures, and a passion for nurturing creativity. 

This weekend, 8 - 9 June 2024, CzipLee is proud to support the SOMe Market 3.0, a stationery & journaling market, set to feature talent from across Malaysia and beyond. This year's SOMe Market 3.0 will be held opposite Cziplee at Bangsar Village II. 

GoPro's First Ever Asia Best Challenge: Join the Fun and Win Big!

Hey adventurers, content creators, and thrill-seekers! 

Get ready to unleash your creativity and win big with GoPro’s exciting new contest – the GoPro Asia Best Challenge (GoProABC). They are calling all storytellers across Asia to dive into their summer adventures and share their coolest GoPro footage for a chance to win a share of USD $200,000!

Whether you're snorkeling in turquoise waters, capturing stunning star trails while camping, or recording unforgettable moments with loved ones, they want to see it all! The travel season is in full swing, so grab your GoPro and start filming. 

Trail Titans Kiara Hill 2024 - 16km course record smashed by Min Xiang Lee

Road running is a challenge of its own but trail running is a different ball game entirely in the cardio game. To be able to smash a 16km course record on trail is an incredible feat and something that Min Xiang Lee achieved at the second Trail Titans Kiara Hill recently.

Xiang Lee finished in 2:07:20, shaving an incredible 10 minutes off the record once held by Ben Hails whose time was 2:17:58 at the inaugural Trail Titans Kiara Hill last year. 32-year-old Xiang Lee, while being an experienced road racer, is relatively new to trail running and made his competitive debut in this event. 

REDLINE Fitness Games by NISSAN: Now Even Bigger & Better!

This July, prepare for the return of REDLINE Fitness Games Powered by NISSAN, happening at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC). Set to take place on 13 - 14 July, this event will measure and test your fitness level while being in an adrenaline pumping, fun filled environment with the entire community. 

Hotel New Century Kawaguchiko, Japan review

It was my travel bucketist to stay at a lakeside hotel at Kawaguchiko and wake up to a view of Mount Fuji. So I made it come true. The hotel I booked was New Century Kawaguchiko, one of the more affordable hotel on that side of the lake. 

After a day of gallivanting all the way to Fujiyoshida to hit the usual tourist stops for my group, we checked into New Century hotel at 3pm. As soon as we parked at the hotel lot, we were immediately greeted by their helpful staff who assisted with our luggage. Check-in was smooth with the receptionist being able to communicate in English and even told us what we can do around the area.  

Discover Paradise: Perhentian Marriott Resort and Spa Unveiled!

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as Marriott Hotels proudly introduces the newest gem in its crown: Perhentian Marriott Resort and Spa. Nestled on the pristine shores of Perhentian Kecil Island in Terengganu, Malaysia, this resort is a tropical haven waiting to be explored.

A Tropical Oasis Awaits

Picture this: turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and lush greenery as far as the eye can see. That's the backdrop for Perhentian Marriott Resort and Spa, where every corner tells a story of natural beauty and Malaysian heritage. As Marriott's flagship brand debuts in Terengganu, prepare to be enchanted by the irresistible charm of this tropical sanctuary.

Garmin Forerunner 165 Series Lands In Malaysia; Starts From RM1,290

The Garmin Forerunner 165 and Forerunner 165 Music that were initially launched globally last month have finally arrived in Malaysia. As previously reported, the duo is the Forerunner series’ most affordable fitness smartwatches to date line-up to date, with prices starting from RM1,290.

Available in two models, Forerunner 165 and Forerunner 165 Music, the latest additions to Garmin’s pace-setting lineup of running smartwatches boast easy-to-read full-color displays, responsive touchscreens and a traditional 5-button design. With fast and easy access to everyday health features, advanced training metrics, recovery insights, smart notifications and more, runners can track their progress without sacrificing battery life; both models get up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 19 hours in GPS mode.

My 5 Favourite Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo, Japan

When in Japan, especially in March to April in the season of spring, do not miss out on cherry blossom hunting. Whether you're first time visitor or a frequent traveller to this beautiful country, there is always something new to be discovered. From the most convenient of spots to see cherry blossoms to the most unexpected, my trip to Tokyo at the end of March 2023 was exactly just that. 

Luxury at the New Marriott Hotel in Penang, Malaysia

Why has it taken so long for a Marriott to open up in Penang? Who knows, but just be glad that one of the most well-known hotel brands, Marriott Hotel is finally opening along Gurney Drive. Offering an unrivaled blend of timeless style, charm, and the cultural tapestry that makes Penang unique, Penang Marriott Hotel is a stunning property that promises breathtaking sea and city views in addition to its central location of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

MOXY Putrajaya Hotel, perfect for Layovers and Work

I have always liken Putrajaya to the Canberra of Malaysia - all governmental office and syiok only for runs around the lakes. Having said that, Putrajaya suffers from a lack of hotels in the area that cater to the more lifestyle kind of crowd. 

But hopefully soon that will change with the opening of Moxy Putrajaya, just steps away from IOI City Mall, easily one of the biggest malls in Malaysia. With its more vibrant and creativity interior, this hotel clearly caters to those who live life on the go. The hotel is in proximity to Kuala Lumpur International Airport and major highways connecting Klang Valley and beyond, placing guests in the perfect spot to explore the area’s amenities with ease.

Royal Hotel Kawaguchiko, Japan review

Finding a hotel in Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi, Japan can be tricky especially when you have a big group and a car. Yes, Airbnb was an option but I wasn't in the mood to deal with cleaning up and taking out the trash while I was on holiday. Furthermore, this trip was partly for the Fujisan Marathon and as per my race practice, I wanted an accommodation within walking distance from the start line. 

[Food Review] Manhattan Fish Market Golden Cheese Treasures

Okay, it has been a long time since I've done a food review so bear with me as I dig out my rusty culinary describing skills.

I was recently invited to try out Manhattan Fish Market's Golden Cheese Treasures dishes. Seafood is already a sign of prosperity during Chinese New Year. So how else better to add more prosperity than a dash of cheese with its golden hues to mirror gold, a symbol of wealth and fortune. 

4 KL Shopping Malls with Amazing 2024 Chinese New Year Decors for Photo Ops

As we bid farewell to the Year of the Rabbit, Pavilion REIT Malls is gearing up for an extravagant welcome to the Year of the Dragon, promising a year filled with luck, prosperity, and good health in 2024! Let's soar into the festivities and explore the captivating celebrations across Pavilion REIT Malls.

Dive into the Year of the Dragon with Haidilao's Exclusive Kung Fu Panda 4 Experience

Embrace the excitement of the Year of the Dragon in 2024 as Haidilao Malaysia collaborates with its overseas counterparts in Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam to present an exclusive Kung Fu Panda 4 dining experience. Teaming up with Universal Products & Experiences (Universal) and DreamWorks Animation, this special event will run from January 22 to February 24, 2024, allowing fans to indulge in a unique Kung Fu Panda-themed dining experience before the global release of the film on March 7 at Haidilao outlets.

credit: Haidilou Singapore

Sun & Sand Sports (SSS) Makes a Splash in Malaysia with Grand Launch Event

Sun & Sand Sports (SSS), a renowned Middle Eastern sports retailer, has marked its grand debut in Malaysia with a spectacular launch event. The event, aptly named 'SSS Active Arcade,' unfolded at Centre Court, Mid Valley Megamall, offering a unique experience to fitness enthusiasts and lifestyle seekers. As part of its strategic expansion, SSS has opened stores at Mid Valley Megamall and Pavilion Bukit Jalil, with a forthcoming outlet at TRX, emphasizing its commitment to establishing 11 stores across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, within the next 36 months.