Fraser's Hill, Pahang: Things to Do

Fraser’s Hill in Pahang is a quiet hill station known for its cool climate, green surroundings, and colonial-style buildings. It was named after Louis James Fraser, a Scottish trader who ran a tin ore business here in the late 1800s. In the early 1900s, Fraser disappeared without a trace, and the hill was abandoned for several years.

That changed in 1917 when British official J. Ferguson-Davie rediscovered the area. Soon after, Fraser’s Hill was developed into a highland retreat for British officers who wanted to get away from the heat in the lowlands. This history explains the presence of colonial bungalows and stone houses that still stand today.

Bread Pizza Recipe

Crusty on the outside with a tuna, herb, and cheese spicy topping. A homemade easy bread pizza - quick, versatile, and ideal for using leftover ingredients. Literally open to other toppings, from leftover steamed or roasted chicken to shredded curry chicken.

It’s not just about saving near-expiry bread slices; it’s about waste-not cooking. While this recipe features daun kaduk (Thai betel leaves), you can use other affordable local herbs.

What to Do in Raub, Pahang (Malaysia)

Raub is a small town located in western Pahang, Malaysia. Situated about 110 kilometers northeast of Kuala Lumpur, Raub can be regarded as a sleepy town. Established in the late 19th century, and during the British colonial era, Raub became a significant gold mining town. Today, Raub is known for its agricultural activities, particularly in the cultivation of palm oil and other crops.

Travelling from KKB, Fraser’s Hill, Bentong to Raub
There are visitors who may make an overnight stay or a day trip to Raub. But generally, since the number of things to do in Raub is limited, even spending three-quarters of a day there is ample. For those on a road trip in Malaysia, coming from or going to Kuala Kubu Bharu, Fraser’s Hill, or Bentong, Raub can be a stopover (WHAT TO DO IN BENTONG, PAHANG).

Durian Dessert Recipe: Pengat Durian & Serawa Durian

Gooey, thick, and creamy - durian with coconut milk, sweetened by palm sugar and scented with pandan leaves. This beloved Malay dessert, called Durian Coconut Milk Sweet Porridge or Pengat Durian, is basically a durian porridge.

A guilty pleasure or sinful pleasure not only for durian lovers, but for everyone who loves a traditional Malaysian dessert. Pour this durian porridge over steamed sticky rice (pulut putih) and it becomes Serawa Durian. The ultimate sweet durian porridge with glutinous rice (SAGO PUDDING WITH COCONUT MILK). 

It’s a matter of preference: either the sweet porridge by itself or with sticky rice. Either way, it speaks to the love of durian, the world-known exotic Malaysian fruit.

Shan Pakistan Restaurant - Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam

As always, when a new restaurant opens in Kota Kemuning, there’s bound to be a buzz in the local Facebook groups, with everyone sharing their dining experiences. Naturally, I was curious and excited to check it out. I visited Shan Pakistan Restaurant on a weekday, somewhat sceptical after reading mixed reviews on Facebook and Google Maps. However, the moment I stepped inside, it felt surreal in the best way possible - a welcoming ambiance that immediately made me feel at ease.

Thai Crab Curry Recipe

Thai Crab Curry. Also known as green crab curry, using homemade green curry paste, with fresh green chilies as the main ingredient for spiciness, complemented with lemongrass for fragrance.

Thai green curry is one of the famous Thai curry pastes. Though store-bought or ready-made green curry paste is common these days, nothing beats homemade paste. It allows you to tweak and adapt Thai recipes to your taste. A simple-style curry paste is part of this Thai recipe (THAI RED PRAWN CURRY). 

What to do in Bentong, Pahang (Malaysia)

Located in the western part of Pahang, Bentong is a small and compact semi-urban town. It’s generally calm and quiet on weekdays but gets quite busy on weekends and public holidays. Over the years, towns like Bentong have gained popularity as short getaways among locals, and it has also become one of the more well-known tourist spots for foreign visitors. 

Due to its location near the Titiwangsa mountain range, the town is surrounded by lush greenery and small hills, making it a popular nature-based destination in Malaysia (PULAU KETAM SELANGOR TRAVEL GUIDE).

Mee Siam Singapore Recipe

Spicy prawn-based gravy with rice vermicelli (bee hoon), prawns, tofu pok, boiled egg, chives (kucai), and the citrusy aroma of kaffir lime leaves. This is the twisted Singapore version of Mee Siam (MEE SIAM GRAVY VEGETARIAN). 

How different is it from the Malaysian version of Mee Siam Soup or Mee Siam with Gravy? Not much. These two neighbouring countries have similar flavours, but you can customize ingredients to create your own Singapore-style Mee Siam. After all, that’s what creative cooking is all about.

Soy Sauce Tofu Recipe

An easy-to-cook, simple homemade Chinese dish. There’s nothing much to do, yet soy sauce tofu is appetising for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. A no-fuss easy tofu recipe that can be made within minutes (QUICK CHINESE VEGETABLE STIR-FRY). 

The tofu can range from hard white tofu, Japanese soft tofu, to brown soft tofu. For this Chinese recipe, Japanese egg tofu is used, though white Japanese tofu, works as well.

Nasi Ulam Ikan Bakar - Jalan Kebun, Shah Alam

At nearly 12:15 pm on a Sunday, Nasi Ulam Ikan Bakar was already bustling with customers. The first task was securing a table, followed by a walk to the food display. It’s a self-service setup, and with many choices, we had trouble deciding what to try, especially with others packing up their orders too. 

Top Things to Do in Betong, Thailand

Betong, in Yala Province, southern Thailand, is surrounded by hills and forest-covered mountains. That’s why certain places in town are at higher levels. As you travel further to visit temples and other attractions, many are located on hilltops. If you’ve hired a tuk-tuk, a common mode of transport in Thailand, the ride takes you up and down winding hill slopes. It’s a great way to enjoy the jungle scenery, and the ride itself can feel like a small adventure (WHAT TO SEE & DO IN BETONG THAILAND).

Durian Plantations

Betong is known for its durians, and during the fruit season, many visitors come to taste and buy them from roadside stalls or small farms. It’s one of the experiences to try while sightseeing in the area. There may not be official plantation tours, but riding a tuk-tuk through the winding hill roads gives you a view of durian trees along the way. It adds a nice local touch to your trip.

Lemon Bars Recipe

The sensational lemony fragrance of lemon bars is irresistible. A citrusy, soft custard-like top filling rests on a buttery crumble crust. Among the most popular lemon desserts, they’re a big hit with dessert lovers (EASY CHOCOLATE CAKE). One bar is rarely enough.

Not your ordinary lemon bars, yet an easy and effortless recipe. Handmade lemon dessert begins with a buttery crumble pressed into a pan and baked. While the bottom crust is baking, the top lemon filling is quickly mixed.

Privileged Young Urban Malaysians: Yoga for Mental Health

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
This article explores the challenges faced by privileged young urban Malaysians, focusing on their mental health struggles amidst societal expectations and parental pressures. Despite their access to resources, these individuals often grapple with emotional neglect, overprotective parenting, and an overwhelming need for validation. The pervasive influence of social media exacerbates feelings of isolation and inadequacy, leading to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. In this context, yoga emerges as a powerful, yet underappreciated, tool for fostering mental well-being. By integrating yoga into their lives, young urban Malaysians can cultivate mindfulness, emotional resilience, and coping mechanisms for stress, ultimately addressing their mental health challenges in a holistic manner. This article advocates for a shift in parental perspectives, emphasizing the importance of nurturing emotional needs alongside academic and extracurricular achievements.

Fried Prawn Wontons

Just out of the hot oil and wok, these fried prawn wontons have a sensational crispy skin with a seasoned prawn filling inside. They crunch and crumble delightfully in your mouth, leaving every bite utterly satisfying.

Though maybe not exactly the same as traditional dim sum, this crispy snack can easily be part of a dim sum meal. There are also steamed wontons, filled with pork or chicken (HONG KONG WONTON NOODLE SOUP). 

Spicy Thai-Style Eggplant Recipe

Thai food is a balance of spiciness, tanginess, and the aroma of kaffir lime leaves. The signature tastes of a homemade Thai sauce. Fried eggplant soaks in the sauce, absorbing all those flavors.

Thai flavors are bold and well-known, but they are not limited to non-vegetarian dishes. Many Thai vegetable dishes use the same fragrant sauces, including Spicy Thai-Style Eggplant. Non-vegetarian recipes often include roasted shrimp paste, dried shrimps, minced pork, or minced chicken (COCONUT MILK FISH TOM YUM).

Fish Pickle Recipe

Spices, chilli powder, and turmeric powder make tasty Indian fish pickle. Fried fish is soaked in a tangy vinaigrette with crispy fried curry leaves for extra aroma. Depending on the region, it may be known as fish pickle or fish achar.

 

In Kerala, it’s known as Mathi Achar, made with sardine fish (mathi). While there is also a Western-style fish pickle, the spicy taste of the Indian fish pickle stands out.

Betong, Thailand: What to See and Do

Located in southern Thailand’s Yala Province near the Malaysia-Thailand border, Betong, Thailand is a small town that remains largely undiscovered by mainstream tourists. In recent years, however, it has been gaining attention, even among Malaysian travelers looking for a short getaway. 

Often referred to as a “men’s paradise in Thailand,” Betong still offers enough local attractions and experiences to make a two-day visit worthwhile, particularly as part of a southern Thailand itinerary (CHIANG MAI & CHIANG RAI SIGHTSEEING).

 

For those not planning to stay only in Betong Town, there are several tourist spots in and around Betong, including attractions located farther from the town centre. If you’re not driving, transportation in Betong is easily available for a fee. Most hotels in Betong can assist in arranging tuk-tuks or private transport for sightseeing.

Steamed Fish (Chinese Style)

Tender fish is topped with a no-cook chili, scallions, coriander, and ginger sauce, creating a delicious Chinese-style steamed fish. Steamed fish is naturally healthy, and the spicy no-cook sauce adds even more benefits. Steaming is simple, making this an easy recipe to try at home (THAI STYLE STEAMED FISH). 

Various types of fish can be used, but some of the best are red snapper (ikan merah), white pomfret (bawal putih), grouper (kerapu), mackerel (tenggiri), and tilapia. For this recipe, seabass (kurau) is used, with tender, flaky flesh that takes on the sauce beautifully.

Payasam Recipe

Green peas in coconut milk, and plumped-up black raisins and cashew nuts fried in ghee, make this a delicious Indian sweet porridge. A South Indian Payasam. In North India, it is widely known as Kheer. There is also the South Indian Kerala Pradhaman / Pal Payasam.

Various styles and types of Payasam are possible. Each one depends on which Indian ingredients are preferred, between the legumes, lentils, sago (PALM SUGAR SAGO PUDDING), nuts, and seeds. There is the simple Payasam, to the top-notch restaurant-style Payasam.

Sago Pudding with Palm Sugar (Sago Gula Melaka)

Translucent sago pearls in creamy coconut milk and palm sugar syrup make this dessert a soft, slightly sticky indulgence. Sago pudding with palm sugar, or Sago Gula Melaka, is a cherished part of Malaysia’s traditional kuih-muih desserts (CEMPEDAK GORENG).

Visually appealing and irresistibly tempting, this sago dessert is surprisingly simple to make. Just simmer rinsed sago, locally known as sagu in Malaysia, in boiling water until translucent, rinse again, and set in a large mould or individual cups.

Molten Lava Cake: Eggless

Oozy, gooey chocolate in the middle of a soft, melting-in-the-mouth cake. This is the eggless Molten Lava Cake. A no-fuss, chocolaty dessert chocolate cake (MARBLE CAKE), ideal when you crave a portion of cake, even for one person.

It can be made as mug cake, or in small Pyrex dishes, or any microwave-friendly container. Yes, it’s also the microwave Molten Lava Cake, ready in minutes. You can also make a steamed version if preferred.

 

The method is simple: sift the dry ingredients, mix in the wet ingredients, place a piece of chocolate in the center, and cook. The result is a warm, gooey chocolate center every time.

Chettinad Mutton Curry Recipe

Karaikudi food is about South Indian cooking, and within this category, there is also the Chettinad food. Spices play a role in Chettinad cooking, and that’s what makes a Mutton Curry Chettinad style simply mouthwatering (KARAIKUDI CHICKEN CURRY). 

There is the typical version, or authentic version, and there is also a Malaysian-style Chettinad Mutton Curry. Which means Indian mutton curry recipe can be tweeted.

Tandoori Salmon

It’s all worth it for the no-smell, omega-packed salmon. While salmon is rather pricey in Malaysia compared to our local catch, a simple pan-grilled salmon with lemon juice, crushed pepper, and salt is one of the best ways to have it.

 

Tandoor-style salmon, on the other hand, brings in Indian spices, making it a tasty, healthy dish (STEAMED FISH THAI STYLE). 

 

Traditionally, North-Indian Tandoori Salmon is cooked in a tandoor oven, or oven-baked for a home version. But the pan-grilled version is just as satisfying. Served with a no-cook mint dip, also known as mint chutney, and a crisp salad, it becomes a complete, restaurant-style salmon meal at home.

Kodai Kueh Shah Alam Review – Malay Kueh & Noodles

On my way to an eatery I’d been eager to try on Jalan Kebun, I stumbled upon Kodai Kueh Shah Alam by Aboy Eisha, located at Lorong Ikhsan. It’s just a quick 10-minute drive from Nava’s Zen in Kemuning Greenville. I found it intriguing that it’s called kodai instead of the more common kedai, which means "shop" in English. Ah! Just one of those quirks I can't comment on. Never mind; it’s not a big deal anyway.

As I approached this unassuming roadside shop, I noticed a growing crowd. Curiosity piqued - what was it about this place that was drawing so many people in? The closer I got, the more intrigued I became.

Mutton Curry Recipe

The simple, easy curry is the best curry. The best mutton curry features ingredients commonly used in Indian cooking. Items you likely already have at home. Mutton curry is all about bold spiciness and aroma (MUTTON DALCHA). 

This South Indian-style mutton curry is ideal for beginners or for days when time is tight. With mutton pressure-cooked first, it saves time and lets you focus on cooking the rest of the ingredients.

Marble Cake Recipe

Marble cake, also known as swirl cake or butter cocoa cake, is a hybrid of half butter cake and half chocolate (cocoa) cake. This is a pretty easy recipe. You can even use a regular butter cake recipe, split the batter into two, and fold cocoa powder into one portion, making sure there are no lumps (BUTTER CAKE RECIPE). 

If you like, add a little extra cocoa powder. The slight bitterness blends well with the sweetness of the buttery cake batter.

Sleep Struggles for Women in Midlife: Yoga Solutions

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
This article investigates the sleep struggles faced by women in midlife, particularly those in their forties and beyond, and emphasizes the role of yoga as a holistic solution. As women in this age group encounter various challenges - such as emotional fatigue, physical inactivity, and disruptions in circadian rhythms - these factors significantly contribute to poor sleep quality. The research highlights how the practice of yoga can address these issues by enhancing physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By incorporating yoga into their daily routines, women can cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and foster a deeper sense of tranquility, which are essential for reclaiming restful sleep.

Sarawak Laksa Recipe

Fragrant, spicy, and creamy Sarawak-style noodle soup with a rich prawn-coconut broth layered in tangy, aromatic flavors. The famous Sarawak Laksa or laksa made in Sarawak. Though spices like coriander seeds, cumin seeds and fennel seeds are roasted before adding into the making of Sarawak Laksa Paste, for easy cooking, store-bought already grounded ones make it easier.

 

The Laksa paste is what determines the delicious of laksa, which also be said as curry or laksa gravy. Once this has been made, the rest of the cooking technique is rather straightforward (PRAWN CURRY LAKSA). 

Mutton Dalcha Recipe

When mutton is cooked with lentils and spices, it becomes a thick, spicy curry with tender meat. A vibrant yellow hue, soft lentils and meat, tasty Indian-style Mutton Dalcha.

What makes this Mutton Dalcha, or Mutton with Lentils Curry, stand out? It’s the cooking technique. Pressure-cooking the mutton softens the tough meat. The flavor is enhanced by store-bought spice powders instead of making masala from scratch.

 

Add the creamy richness of natural yogurt and the aromatic touch of curry leaves and coriander, and the curry is full of depth and aroma (INDIAN LAMB SOUP).

Tofu Stir Fry: Indian Style

Tofu, the protein-packed ingredient made from soybeans, is suited for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. These days, it comes in different tyoes. from traditional blocks to sofu and even organic varieties (VEGETARIAN NASI LEMAK). 

For this Indian-style stir fry, firm tofu works best. Otherwise, tofu will crumble apart, unless you’re after a softer, scrambled texture.