FAVSTYLE Essentials

There is something deeply inspiring about seeing a Sabahan return home after conquering the culinary world beyond our shores. For Chef Bobby Melvin George Mojinu, the journey has been long, challenging, and rewarding, spanning more than two decades across some of Malaysia's most prestigious hospitality brands. Today, at the age of 44, Chef Bobby stands as a seasoned culinary professional with 22 years of experience under his apron. A proud son of Kg Inobong, Penampang, his story is one of determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence that eventually brought him back to the land he calls home. A graduate of the Asian Tourism Institution (ATI), Chef Bobby discovered his passion for cooking early in life. After completing one and a half years of culinary studies, he embarked on his professional journey at just 19 years old. Like many young Sabahans seeking greater opportunities, he made the courageous decision to leave home and venture into Peninsular Malaysia, whe...

Where Passion, Patience and Heritage Meet at Tangerine At the heart of Kota Kinabalu's evolving culinary landscape, a familiar name has returned to the kitchen where his remarkable journey first began. After nearly four decades of refining his craft across Sabah's hospitality industry, Chef Masalun Sidul has come full circle, bringing a wealth of experience, wisdom, and culinary artistry back to The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu . Born in Kimanis, Papar, and now residing in Tuaran with his family, Chef Masalun's story is a testament to dedication and perseverance. Unlike many professional chefs, his expertise was not shaped in a culinary academy. Instead, it was forged through years of hands-on experience, countless hours in bustling hotel kitchens, and an unwavering commitment to mastering his craft. Chef Masalun, serving his specialty Oxtail Asam Pedas to the guests His culinary journey began in 1989 when he joined The Palace Hotel as an assistant cook immediately after ...

FAVSTYLE Magazine | Essentials would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the incredible team behind Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd for their continuous growth, dedication, and contribution towards elevating Sabah’s tourism, events, media, and creative industry landscape. Since its establishment in 1977, Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd has evolved into a dynamic organization operating through three distinctive brands that continue to shape and promote the spirit of Sabah to local and international audiences: • Hello Sabah Events Specializing in professional event management and memorable experiential activations. • Hello Sabah A growing media platform delivering stories, updates, and destination highlights through digital media and social channels. • Kadaiku A physical and online retail platform celebrating Sabah’s local crafts, heritage products, and the management of the iconic Tip of Borneo destination. Behind this remarkable journey is a passionate leadership team whose vi...

An evening of meaningful conversation and shared aspirations unfolded during a special dinner gathering with YB Dato  Hanifah Hajar Taib , organised by the Sabah Women Small and Medium Entrepreneurs Association (IKSNITA) under the leadership of Datuk Hajah  Dayang Khatijah Datu Haji Bachtiyal . The gathering reflected the growing importance of continued engagement between government leaders and non-governmental organizations in shaping stronger communities through women empowerment, entrepreneurship development, welfare initiatives, and public health awareness.  Photo courtesy to YB Dato Hajjah Hanifah Hajar Taib facebook page In today’s evolving social landscape, such collaborations have become increasingly essential in ensuring that development reaches communities not only through policy, but through genuine grassroots connection. Particularly inspiring was YB Dato’ Hajjah Hanifah Hajar Taib ’s emphasis on strengthening cooperation between government agencies and NG...

Brewing Legacy, One Cup at a Time: The Visionary Journey of Bonie & Rebecca, Founders of Atukuupi In the heart of Sabah, where tradition hums quietly beneath the rhythm of modern life, two women have redefined what it means to build not just a business, but a legacy steeped in memory, meaning, and quiet resilience. This is the story of Bonie Tan and Rebecca Kok , the visionary founders behind Atukuupi —a brand that does not merely serve coffee, but revives a cultural heartbeat. Atukuupi one of the largest branches at Gaya Street Where It All Began: Two Journeys, One Destiny Bonie’s journey reads like a masterclass in reinvention. Originally from Kuala Lumpur, she relocated to Kota Kinabalu in 2007, stepping into the world of sales and marketing before venturing boldly into entrepreneurship. From cosmetics to mobile accessories, from advertising to design and build ventures, her path was anything but linear. Yet each chapter sharpened her instinct for opportunity and resilience....

Valerie Nicole, 31, a proud Kadazan from Penampang, embodies a rare alchemy of heritage and ambition, crafting a culinary journey that is as intimate as it is inspiring. Since 2013, her path has unfolded with quiet determination, transforming humble beginnings into a story of elegance, resilience, and artistry. Her introduction to the kitchen was not gilded with titles, but grounded in discipline. Beginning as a kitchen helper, Valerie absorbed the rhythm of the culinary world with an observant eye and an unrelenting desire to grow. By 2022, she rose to the distinguished role of Head Chef, a position she held with grace and authority until 2025, before stepping into a more personal chapter as a freelance culinary artist. While still in college, she was assigned the demanding task of preparing hundreds of chickens. It was in that moment, she reflects, that the true test of her resilience and discipline began. A graduate of Asian Tourism International College with a diploma in culinary a...