FAVSTYLE Essentials

Against the breathtaking backdrop of Norway's dramatic fjords and snow-capped mountains, the spirit of Sabah found an unexpected yet heartwarming home. In the picturesque coastal town of Ålesund, the inaugural Ka'amatan Harvest Festival marked a remarkable milestone, bringing one of Borneo's most treasured cultural celebrations to Scandinavia for the very first time. More than a festive gathering, the occasion became a powerful testament to identity, heritage, and the enduring connection between Sabahans abroad and the land they proudly call home. For Malaysians living in Norway, particularly those from Sabah, the celebration served as a vibrant reminder that tradition transcends borders. At the heart of this meaningful initiative was organiser Christina Langgayang , a Sabahan originally from Kampung Tomis Lama near Bundu Tuhan, Ranau. Having called Norway home for over two decades, Christina transformed a long-held vision into reality by introducing Ka'amatan to the No...

In an era where destinations compete not merely for visitors but for meaningful experiences, Sabah is embarking on an exciting new chapter of tourism innovation. Renowned for its pristine rainforests, majestic mountains, vibrant cultures, and legendary hospitality, the Land Below the Wind is now embracing digital transformation through an initiative that promises to redefine how travellers experience the destination. developed by  Reviewbah in collaboration with Jalin Creative , where exploration becomes an interactive adventure powered by Augmented Reality (AR), gamification, and smart location-based technolog y. Rather than simply guiding visitors from one attraction to another, Borneo Adventure Hunt transforms Sabah into a dynamic digital playground. Every café, heritage site, boutique, restaurant, local market, and tourism landmark becomes part of an interconnected journey filled with missions, hidden discoveries, digital collectibles, and exclusive rewards. The concept is ...

On an enchanting evening beneath the vibrant atmosphere of Lintasan Deasoka, Kota Kinabalu celebrated more than the launch of a cultural programme. It unveiled a vision for the future. Citra Budaya Kota Kinabalu – "KK Culture on Stage 2026" was officially launched on 4 July 2026 , marking a significant milestone in Sabah's cultural tourism landscape. The official speech, prepared for YB Datuk Joniston Bangkuai , Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister and Minister Responsible for Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK), was delivered by YBhg. Dato' Sri Dr. Haji Sabin Samitah , Mayor of Kota Kinabalu, before government leaders, tourism stakeholders, cultural practitioners, media representatives and members of the public. The initiative represents a strategic collaboration between Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) and the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS) , serving as one of the flagship cultural programmes supporting Visit Malaysia 2026 while laying t...

Indonesia's vibrant port city of Surabaya is rapidly emerging as one of Southeast Asia's most compelling destinations, where centuries-old culinary traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge innovation. Often celebrated as Indonesia's second-largest city and a thriving commercial powerhouse, Surabaya offers far more than business opportunities. It invites travellers to experience a destination rich in culture, gastronomy, creativity, and warm Indonesian hospitality. Opening ceremony of food expo in Surabaya featuring two robotic puppies named Udon and Ramen During the recent international food exposition held at Grand City Surabaya from 18 to 21 June 2026, the city transformed into a vibrant showcase of flavours, craftsmanship, and technological advancement. The exhibition gathered food producers, culinary artisans, hospitality professionals, and international buyers under one roof, highlighting Indonesia's growing influence in the global food and beverage industry...

KOTA KINABALU – In a remarkable celebration of generosity and community spirit, the Palliative Care Association of Kota Kinabalu (PCAKK) will host its Annual Charity Dinner & Show 2026 on 19 September 2026 at the prestigious Sabah International Convention Centre , with an ambitious goal of raising RM300,000 to sustain and expand its home-based palliative care services throughout Sabah. For more than a quarter of a century, PCAKK has quietly transformed lives by providing compassionate care to patients facing life-limiting illnesses and offering unwavering support to their families during some of life's most challenging moments. The annual fundraising gala represents more than a charitable gathering. It is a powerful commitment to preserving dignity, comfort and quality of life for those in need. Organising Chairman Dr. Mathan Rao emphasised the significance of the event in ensuring the continuity of PCAKK's vital services. Funds raised will support medical equipment...

Luxury is often measured in thread counts, grand lobbies, and skyline views. Yet the most memorable journeys reveal a different truth: true luxury is found in human connection. During my recent visit to Surabaya, Indonesia's vibrant second-largest city, I discovered that some destinations leave an imprint not because of what they show, but because of how they make you feel. Nestled within the iconic Tunjungan Plaza, Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya became more than a hotel. It became a gateway into the heart and soul of East Java. Four Points by Sheraton, Surabaya The journey from Juanda International Airport led us through Surabaya's energetic streets, where tradition and modernity coexist in a fascinating dance. Locals affectionately refer to traffic congestion as macet , a familiar rhythm of urban life that forms part of the city's unique character. Beyond the bustling roads lies a metropolis rich with heritage, commerce, culinary treasures, and stories waiting to be dis...