FAVSTYLE Essentials

In an era where progress often arrives with glass façades and relentless motion, Kinarut stands apart like a well-kept secret, untouched, unhurried, and undeniably soulful. Just a short distance from the pulse of Kota Kinabalu, this modest township offers something increasingly rare: the luxury of stillness. Not the kind curated in five-star resorts, but an organic, lived-in serenity where time moves at its own poetic pace. Kinarut does not attempt to impress. It doesn’t need to. Its charm lies in its quiet confidence, an unspoken decision to preserve rather than perform. Rows of old shoplots remain as they were decades ago, their weathered façades whispering stories of Sabah’s yesteryears. While nearby towns have embraced modern reinvention, Kinarut has chosen restraint, and in that restraint, it finds identity . There is a certain romance in places that refuse to rush. At the heart of this town, life gathers every Saturday at the tamu , where the streets awaken with a gentle hu...

In a gesture where culinary artistry meets regal reverence, Sutera Harbour unveiled an extraordinary centrepiece of celebration this Syawal season, a majestic 100-kilogram creation known as Kek Istana Syawal . Presented at the esteemed Istana Seri Kinabalu, the masterpiece was offered to His Excellency Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Haji Musa bin Haji Aman, Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah , alongside Her Excellency Toh Puan Datin Seri Panglima Datuk Hajah Faridah binti Haji Tussin , marking a moment steeped in tradition, elegance, and heartfelt festivity. Conceived and brought to life in under a week, the cake is no ordinary indulgence. Under the masterful direction of Chef Kee Roesdyen and the accomplished pastry team of The Magellan Sutera Resort , it rises as an edible tribute to Sabah’s cultural and architectural identity. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Masjid Bandaraya Likas , the design takes the form of a floating mosque resting upon an island, a poetic nod to Borneo’s geograph...

In the golden hush of late afternoon along Lokkawi Road, where the air carries whispers of smoke and coconut, a quiet story of resilience unfolds, wrapped in bamboo and fire. It is here that three young women, poised between ambition and necessity, transform a humble roadside stall into a living expression of Raya’s enduring spirit. Genevy Evonny Chia, alongside her companions Paulina Cassandra and Rellenicca, do more than sell lemang. They curate moments. Each bamboo cylinder they present is a small, fragrant testament to discipline, patience, and grace under pressure. First-year students navigating city life far from their rural homes, they embody a new generation of quiet entrepreneurs, where education meets instinct, and survival evolves into sophistication. Lemang is one of the popular dish when come Hari Raya Behind this culinary ritual stands “Mr. Peace,” whose steady guidance transforms tradition into mentorship. Under his watch, the art of lemang becomes a refined craft. The...

Under a velvet sky brushed with midnight hues, a new chapter in Sabah’s global story quietly arrived on wings of anticipation and connection  The very first direct flight from Chongqing to Kota Kinabalu marked more than just a route, it signaled a bridge between cultures, economies, and shared experiences waiting to unfold. As Chongqing Airlines flight OQ2193 touched down at 11:15 PM carrying 154 passengers, the runway transformed into a stage of celebration. A dazzling water cannon salute arched gracefully over the aircraft, a ceremonial embrace that welcomed not just a flight, but a future filled with promise. On arrival, guests were greeted with a vibrant cultural reception, where Sabah’s rich heritage danced effortlessly into the night, offering a warm and memorable first impression. With three weekly flights now connecting Chongqing to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah becomes more accessible than ever, perfectly aligned with the spirit of Visit Malaysia 2026. This new connection opens ...

In the quiet precision of a perfectly cut canvas lies a language only a few in the world can truly speak. It is not stitched in haste, nor measured by trend, but sculpted through discipline, heritage, and an almost poetic understanding of form. And in that rarefied circle of excellence, Western Tailor Kota Kinabalu stands with quiet authority, carrying Sabah’s craftsmanship onto the global stage. A Global Gathering of Sartorial Intelligence On 17 September 2025 , within the refined halls of Lotte Hotel Busan, the world’s most distinguished tailoring minds convened for the 40th World Federation of Master Tailors International Congress . A gathering not merely of professionals, but of custodians of a centuries-old art form. Representing Malaysia with distinction was Western Tailor Kota Kinabalu , under the leadership of Gerain Chan , a name synonymous with precision tailoring in Sabah. Their presence was not just attendance, but participation in a living dialogue of mastery. The Art ...

There are places you visit for a stay, and then there are places that quietly transform the way you experience time. Kota Kinabalu belongs to the latter — a destination where the rhythm of the sea, the warmth of its culture, and the richness of its surroundings come together in effortless harmony. At the heart of this coastal narrative stands Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu , a contemporary sanctuary where luxury is not defined by excess, but by intention. From the very first encounter, the experience unfolds not as a sequence, but as a fluid story. The city itself becomes the prologue. Just beyond the hotel, vibrant local markets awaken the senses — a living tapestry of colors, textures, and aromas. Fresh produce, exotic botanicals, and the quiet expertise of local artisans create moments that feel both intimate and authentic. It is here that exploration becomes something deeper than discovery; it becomes connection. As the day transitions, the journey elevates — quite literally — to the ...

A new international pageant is set to emerge from the heart of Borneo as Miss Centurion International prepares to make its official debut. Born in Sabah, Malaysia, this prestigious platform aims to redefine modern pageantry by celebrating women of leadership , intelligence , and global influence . Positioned as more than a traditional beauty pageant, Miss Centurion International is built on the values of strength , discipline , and purpose — inspired by the legacy of the Centurion, a historic symbol of leadership and command. The platform seeks to empower women who embody not only elegance, but also confidence, intellect, and the ability to lead in today’s dynamic world. With its roots in Sabah, the pageant will serve as a global stage that brings together delegates from across nations, showcasing cultural diversity while promoting unity, purpose, and international collaboration. Title Structure and Recognition Miss Centurion International introduces a distinguished title hier...

Tapioca or Mundok in Kadazan a poor man's food once upon a time Once whispered as the “poor man’s food,” tapioca, sweet potatoes, and native root crops carry stories far richer than their modest origins suggest. These were not merely meals of necessity, but quiet heroes of survival during one of history’s harshest chapters. During the Japanese Occupation, when rice became a distant luxury, tapioca emerged as a lifeline. It nourished families, sustained communities, and stood resilient in the face of scarcity. In every bite lived endurance, adaptation, and the unbreakable spirit of the people. Sweet potatoes or Bogoi in Kadazan Today, that narrative has transformed. What was once overlooked now commands admiration. A stroll through Tamu Donggongon reveals this remarkable shift, where tapioca is no longer a symbol of hardship but a celebrated delicacy. Its value has risen dramatically, from humble bulk pricing to a sought-after ingredient, even featured on curated hotel menus. Thi...

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah — In the spirit of grace, unity, and timeless tradition, Hilton Kota Kinabalu extended a distinguished gesture of goodwill ahead of the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri, presenting a bespoke festive cake to the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah, Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr.) Musa Haji Aman , at the esteemed Istana Negeri Sabah. Set against the refined elegance of the palace interior, the ceremonial presentation reflected more than a seasonal offering — it was a symbol of respect, cultural appreciation, and the enduring ties between hospitality and heritage. The intricately designed cake, inspired by traditional architecture, stood as a centrepiece of craftsmanship, embodying both artistic finesse and heartfelt intention. Leading the distinguished delegation was General Manager, Smital Shah Boultwood, alongside the dedicated Hilton Kota Kinabalu team, whose presence underscored the brand’s commitment to fostering meaningful relationships within the community and honouri...

In a gesture of refined hospitality and heartfelt tradition, Horizon Hotel proudly presented an exquisite festive creation at the distinguished Seri Kinabalu Palace , ushering in the spirit of the upcoming Aidilfitri with grace and reverence. Led by Director of Operations, Ms Evelyn Saw , alongside the dedicated teams from Sales & Marketing and Food & Beverage, the occasion was more than a ceremonial delivery — it was a meaningful expression of unity, appreciation, and cultural celebration. The moment was further elevated by the gracious presence of His Excellency Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr.) Hj Musa Bin Haji Aman and his esteemed wife, Puan Sri Hajah Faridah Binti Hj Tussin , adding a sense of prestige and honour to the occasion. At the heart of this celebration stood a magnificent 25kg masterpiece, aptly named “Seri Dirgahayu Aidilfitri.” Meticulously handcrafted over 72 hours by Chef Shariffah Nur Atheirrah and Horizon Hotel’s talented pastry artisans, the cake embod...