Traditional Malay Food Review: Selera Kampung Nasi Campur

For the longest time, whenever we’re at AEON Bukit Rimau, Shah Alam, Selangor to run errands or pick up a few things, we never miss having lunch at Selera Kampung Nasi Campur. Sometimes, I even bring along my containers to pack their food back home. We usually arrive early, around 11:30 am, to avoid the lunchtime crowd. This stall is by far the most popular among the few in the food court.

Bread Pudding Recipe: Malaysian Style

When it comes to bread pudding, it's all about waste not, want not. This Malaysian-style bread pudding recipe is a go-to when needing to use up near-expiry bread slices, crusts included. No waste, no fuss (FRUITY BREAD PUDDING). And when you add the beautiful aroma of pandan leaves (screwpine), you get that unmistakable local Malaysian taste.

 

This is a healthier version of bread pudding. Instead of condensed milk, which is often too sweet, plain carton milk is used with a light touch of sugar. You can even swap in coconut milk for a creamier, more indulgent texture.

Temples in South India

It goes without saying, India is the country of religion and spirituality, reflected in the countless number of temples. From North to South India, from urban centres to rural areas, temples are everywhere. Some in remote regions, each holds deep significance in India’s ancient history and religious culture. Every temple, without a doubt, stands strong in faith, devotion, and tradition, also as the sacred places in India that continue as the country’s living heritage (HARYANA SACRED SITES, INDIA).

 

It cannot be discounted that to know India is to know the temples of India, whether as a pilgrimage or part of touring the country. However, it is impossible to cover all the temples in India in one go, which is why people keep returning again and again.

Holistic Wellness: 5 Quick Yoga Tips

What Is Holistic Wellness? 

Key “holistic wellness” into any search engine and dozens of definitions pop up. Most say roughly the same thing. Ask Ms. Nava, founder of Nava’s Zen Holistic Wellness, and she’ll tell you this:

 

Holistic Wellness is about your complete self - your whole package inside and out - linked to everything that matters to you: where you live, what you do, who you’re with, and when you do it. It’s the connection you discover between breath, body, mind, and soul.

Fried Banana Chips Recipe

Crunchy, crispy, and lightly spiced, these banana chips are a beloved accompaniment for home-cooked rice meals (RICE-COOKER TURMERIC RICE) and are looked forward to in unassumingly Indian eateries. Making fried banana chips isn’t complicated. It’s all about time, batch-frying, and ensuring they are crispy fried without burning. This Indian banana chips recipe shows you how to make banana chips easily at home.

The bananas used for these crispy banana chips are green bananas, known as Valakkai in Tamil, which gives the recipe its name in Tamil as Valakkai Chips or Valakkai Poriyal (though “poriyal” usually refers to stir-fries).

Kopitiam Review: Kawan Place Kota Kemuning

Located on a corner lot in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, Selangor, Kawan Place offers a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. Green is their highlight color - seen on the signboard, façade, and dining area - while the overall ambiance feels clean and welcoming. We arrived on a Monday at about 11:15 a.m.; as we entered the indoor dining area, we noticed a few customers tucking into their meals at the outside pavement dining area (WHERE TO EAT IN PERAK).

Chinese Steamed Chicken Recipe

Tender and juicy chicken, served with ginger sauce. The fresh aroma of ginger, the bright burst of spring onions, and the nutty scent of sesame oil make this a delicious, wholesome, and simple Chinese meal (CHINESE EGG FRIED RICE). 

 

Truly, Chinese cooking doesn’t get easier. Steaming is straightforward, and the no-cook Chinese Ginger Dip delivers a beloved spicy kick. The succulent steamed chicken (EASY CHICKEN SALAD) is eaten by dipping into the Chinese sauce.

Best Turmeric Rice Recipe: Rice Cooker Style

Best in the sense that it’s not only known as turmeric rice but also as golden rice. Fluffy grains, earthy, peppery, and buttery, with a satisfying crunch from nuts and natural sweetness from raisins. Though some stove-top prep is required, this recipe is mostly cooked in the rice cooker for ease and consistency.

 

Turmeric powder, a powerful antioxidant with numerous health benefits. A staple of Indian cooking and has now found its place in Western kitchens. Basmati rice is also known for its health benefits compared to plain white rice, with light, separate grains and a fragrant aroma.

Vegetarian White Bee Hoon Recipe - Indian Style

Forever a classic - fragrant, nutritious, and wholesome. This Indian-style vegetarian white bee hoon (rice vermicelli) is a family favorite. The aroma of curry leaves, the gentle heat of dried red chilies, and the crunch of cabbage come together in soft or al-dente fried bee hoon.

 

Simple, affordable, and homemade (INDIAN CREAMED SPINACH), this stir-fried bee hoon is enjoyed for breakfast, tea-time, or even as a light dinner.

What to See and Eat in Perak, Malaysia

Ipoh Town is a heritage trail on its own. The old colonial shops say it all, reflecting how culture and legendary stories are still alive. Walking through the town along the Ipoh Heritage Trail is like stepping back in time. Whether to view the interiors or just the exteriors of the significant sites in Ipoh, every step reveals the stories of the past. Days can pass easily here, with quick stops or lingering at spots that simply draw attention (PERAK MALAYSIA ATTRACTIONS).

And it’s not just history. Perak is full of food heritage too. From unassuming local eateries to modern cafes, traditional flavours are everywhere, waiting to be tasted.

5 common mistakes to avoid if you’re planning to remodel your kitchen

A kitchen remodel can be an exciting project, but it’s also very complex and involves different kinds of components. Hence, it’s easy to overlook details that can create major problems down the line and lead to overspending. 

While homeowners often think of what they should do to create their dream kitchen, it’s equally important to understand what they shouldn’t do, ensuring a seamless and successful transformation of their culinary space. Below, we outline the most common mistakes homeowners make when remodelling their kitchens so that you can sidestep them and create a kitchen that’s practical and aesthetic at the same time.

Mutton Curry Recipe/Masala Mutton Gravy

The simply aromatic, top-notch flavor profile of Indian spices defines this Indian-style Mutton Curry. Tender mutton in a thick, spicy gravy awakens the palate instantly, while crushed black pepper adds a sharp heat and lingering spiciness (CHETTINAD MUTTON CURRY).

 

Mutton curries with black pepper are popular across regions, each with unique local names. In Kerala, it’s called Meat Pepper Curry or Irachi Milagu Curry. In Tamil Nadu, simply South Indian Mutton Curry. It is Milagu Mutton in Sri Lanka, whereas, in Bangladesh, known as Kala Bhuna, and in Durban, South Africa, as Durban Mutton Curry.

Adolescents' Global Mental Health Crisis: Holistic Wellness Yoga

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zenpreneur 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
The mental health crisis among adolescents has become a global concern, with rising rates of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. While traditional approaches to mental health often focus on psychological interventions, holistic wellness through practices such as yoga has gained recognition as an effective remedy. Yoga, which integrates breathwork, physical postures, and mindfulness, offers a unique solution to promote mental health, physical wellness, and emotional resilience among adolescents. This article explores the potential of yoga, focusing on its holistic approach to well-being and its benefits in addressing mental health issues faced by adolescents.

What to Do in Perak: Travel Guide

The heart of Perak is Ipoh, reachable within 30 minutes from Batu Gajah. Ipoh itself holds significant tourist attractions, spanning historic landmarks, temples, and natural sites. Yet, a stop at Kuala Kangsar, the royal town (Bandar Diraja) of Perak, is certainly worthy. After all, Kuala Kangsar is home to legendary landmarks tied to Malaysia’s British colonial period, which began in the late 18th century and lasted until independence in 1957 (DISCOVER PERAK YEAR).

 

Landmarks in Kuala Kangsar, Perak
Victoria Bridge:  Kuala Kangsar
Within the small town of Karai lies a hidden gem from the British colonial period. Built in 1900 during the tin mining boom, Victoria Bridge stands as one of Malaysia’s oldest railway bridges and a lasting piece of colonial engineering.

Sardine Sambal/Sambal Sardin: Canned Sardine Recipe

Ever classic, ever beloved, spicy sardine made with canned sardines is simply irresistible. No dried chilli paste is needed, so you don’t have to pound or blend even if using fresh chillies. For tanginess, there’s no need for tomatoes. The sauce in the canned sardines works as it is.

 

The twist for this recipe is home-grown lemongrass, turmeric leaf, and bird’s eye chillies, which add fragrance, spiciness, and the health benefits of cooking with herbs. Known as sambal sardine for Malay cooking, or sarden sambal for Indonesian food, it’s called sarden balado when made with balado sauce (SPICY EGGS/TELUR BALADO).

Smith's Diner (Kota Kemuning): Western Food Review

The latest buzz in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, Selangor - Smith’s Diner caught our attention through a Facebook food group. Curious and ready to explore, we headed over last Sunday.To beat the weekend crowd, we arrived early at 6:30 PM and were the first two customers of the evening.

The ambiance? Nothing overly fancy, but pleasantly inviting. The interior is clean, cosy, and tastefully simple - just the right setting for a relaxed dining experience.

Easy Indian Creamed Spinach Curry (Vegetarian)

All natural goodness and deliciousness. Healthy, nutrient-packed coconut milk creaminess, glossy spinach, golden turmeric, and aromatic curry leaves. Along with chillies and a splash of lime juice, this creamed spinach recipe brings vibrant flavor and extra nutritious value to your plate (PICKLED EGGPLANT). 

Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and wholesome plant-based goodness, it’s a budget-friendly dish that doesn’t compromise on benefits. Nothing beats home-cooked meals for wellness.

Discover Perak: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

Visit Perak year should be every year. This state in Malaysia holds countless significant sites that can take a few days to cover. Perak is located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, facing the Straits of Malacca. Its capital city, Ipoh, is the heart of the state. Perak has 12 districts and three main cities - Ipoh, Taiping, and Teluk Intan, along with towns such as Sitiawan, Kampar, Kuala Kangsar, and Tanjung Malim.

As attractions are spread across the districts, sightseeing in Perak forms a steady trail of discovery. The state holds years of history, seen through its long-standing landmarks and heritage sites. Where to begin depends on which part of Malaysia one is coming from (WHAT TO DO IN BENTONG, PAHANG). 

Raub SYC Hainan Kopitiam Review

I missed the chance to dine at Raub SYC Hainan Kopitiam during my visit to Raub last year (RAUB, TRAS, PAHANG VISIT) Not a major setback, as they’ve since expanded to Kota Kemuning, Setapak, and USJ. Naturally, the Kota Kemuning outlet was the most convenient, located near Nava’s Zen in Kemuning Greenville.

I visited on a mid-week morning around 9:30 AM. The kopitiam had a spacious and clean ambiance, with about half of the seating occupied and a steady stream of customers. The menu offered a wide selection, and it took some time for the three of us to decide.

Lou Ho Kee Kopitiam: Uptown Rimbayu, Selangor

Opened just about two months ago, Lou Ho Kee Kopitiam joins the growing list of Chinese coffeeshops, now commonly known as kopitiams. Located in Uptown Rimbayu, Bandar Rimbayu, Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor, this eatery came recommended by someone who knows we’re always on the lookout for new food spots (PENANG FOOD GUIDE: WHERE & WHAT TO EAT).

Upon arrival, we were momentarily confused by the two corner-lot units side by side, separated by a lane. Unsure at first, we entered the right one and soon realized that both share the same ambiance - modern yet reminiscent of a high-end kopitiam. The corridor housing the food stalls is impressively clean, adding to the inviting atmosphere.

Tofu Sambal Recipe: Easy & Spicy Tofu Dish

Tofu Sambal, or Sambal Tofu, is a side vegetarian dish for a rice meal. Not only for vegetarians but also suitable for non-vegetarians. Suited for a meatless meal or plant-based cooking (VEGETARIAN NASI LEMAK), this simple recipe requires nothing more than pantry staples. These are the common ingredients stocked up at home.

 

There are a couple of ways to cook tofu sambal. Essentially, it’s the sambal or chili paste that creates the dish. The paste turns into a chili gravy or thick chili sauce.

 

The YouTube Shorts video attached below shows how to cook a simple tofu sambal.

Pickled Eggplant Recipe

Lightly fried for a crisp outer coating, this fusion eggplant in vinaigrette delivers bold flavors from garden to table. Fresh, colorful bird’s eye chilies, aromatic bay leaves, and ginger form the heart of this vinegar-infused eggplant, also known as pickled chilies when the heat is highlighted (EASY MANGO CHUTNEY). 

This recipe blends the best of various pickled eggplant traditions: Italian pickled eggplant, Lebanese pickled eggplant, Makdous, and Indian-style pickled brinjal, creating a versatile, home-style pickle.

Young Adult Health Crisis in Selangor, Malaysia: Can Yoga Help?

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 
The rising prevalence of physical health issues among young adults in Selangor, Malaysia, including chronic pain, fatigue, and stress-related ailments, highlights the need for holistic interventions. Despite substantial evidence supporting yoga’s benefits for physical resilience, flexibility, and pain management, it remains underutilized. This article examines the role of yoga as a complementary health approach, drawing insights from direct observations, data collection, and a review of peer-reviewed and medical literature.

Vegetarian Spaghetti Recipe

The ultimate vegetarian spaghetti reflecting Asian tastes. This Malaysian-style spaghetti is spicy, buttery, and scented with fresh coriander leaves, also known as vegetable spaghetti (VEGETARIAN FRIED RICE). 

 

The fresh spaghetti sauce is made from scratch in a Malaysian kitchen using dried chili paste, ginger, shallots, and tomatoes, not store-bought spaghetti sauce. Tofu and green peas are added, making this vegetarian spaghetti recipe stand out from other spaghetti dishes.

Beginner’s Guide to 5 Easy Herbs for Urban Gardening

Growing herbs successfully depends largely on climate. It’s essential to know which herbs thrive in your region, as what grows easily in tropical climates may struggle in four-season countries (EASY GARDENING: SEED SOWING FOR BEGINNERS). Through experience, we’ve learned that some herbs suited for cooler climates simply don’t do well in our environment. 

The herbs we’re sharing here are ideal for Southeast Asia, where temperatures are warm, and rainfall varies throughout the year. While we grow them directly in the ground due to available space, these herbs can also be cultivated in pots.

Easy Mango Chutney

Spicy, sweet, with a vibrant golden turmeric hue and soft mango. The famed and popular Mango Chutney. This Indian-style chutney isn’t just a side dish for an Asian rice meal. It can be a mango jam as well. Whether cooked with or without chillies, mango chutney is a versatile Indian-style condiment that adds a sweet and tangy kick to dishes (VEGETABLE BIRYANI). 

 

Uses of Mango Chutney

On Toast and Sandwiches

Spread it on plain toast, sourdough, or sandwiches. It pairs well with butter or cream cheese.

Food Review: CUK Bakery & Cafe (Bandar Rimbayu)

CUK Bakery & Café, with CUF short for Cikgu Una, is located in Bandar Rimbayu, Telok Panglima Garang, Selangor. The moment I stepped in, I was drawn to the ambiance. Though the space is limited - it’s a single lot, rather compact, with minimal space between tables - the rustic décor, cleanliness, and cozy setting make it warm and inviting. What made it even more endearing was the staff’s friendly nature. Their genuine smiles and welcoming attitude added to the comfort as I waited for my lunch companion.

Easy Lamb in Soy Sauce Recipe

Fragrant lemongrass and turmeric leaf in a thick, spicy and tangy sauce blend with soy sauce, giving salty, sweet, and caramelized notes to tender lamb. The highlight is the use of Southeast Asian herbs -  Lemongrass and turmeric leaf, together with tomato for a fresh burst of tanginess, enhancing the taste of this dish, also known as soy sauce lamb recipe (LAMB SOUP RECIPE). 

 

Mutton can be used as well, but whether lamb or mutton, pressure cooking makes the meat soft and tender. Aromatics like ginger paste, garlic paste, and turmeric give the lamb a fragrant, slightly spicy profile while enhancing its natural taste.

10 Things to Know Before Starting a Business

Starting a business sounds exciting. Many in their early twenties now choose entrepreneurship over traditional jobs. But if you've tried and failed or are just getting started, this guide will help you think before taking the plunge (RESILIENCE OF AN OLDER INDIAN WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR).

Before you dive in, watch this video.

Kopitiam Number One Rimbayu: Hawker Food Worth Trying?

It was yet another recommendation for us to try a different Kopitiam - Kopitiam Number One Rimbayu (Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor), a branch of Kopitiam Number One Seri Muda. Like most kopitiams in Malaysia, this one was located on a corner lot. Parking was a breeze, especially since we arrived early, just before 11:30 AM, to secure a table. As soon as we walked in, my handphone camera was already in action, capturing the scene (PENANG MAINLAND FOOD ADVENTURES).

Watch the YouTube Shorts Video to see our food adventure at Kopitiam Number One Rimbayu before I share more.

Easy Pumpkin Barley Dessert Recipe

Easy but super delicious dessert. Tender, naturally sweet pumpkin with barley cooked to the right texture. Sweetened with rock sugar and scented with pandan leaves (screwpine leaves).

 

This Malaysian dessert is a popular Chinese dessert, often found at dessert stalls in coffee shops or sold by van vendors alongside other desserts. You can also use Gula Melaka (palm sugar) or go sugarless for a healthier option.

Cameron Highlands, Pahang

There is no other mode of transport to Cameron Highlands except by driving, regardless of the departure point in Malaysia. The drive is worthwhile for those heading to one of Malaysia’s most popular hill stations, located in the central part of Peninsular Malaysia, within the state of Pahang (FRASER'S HILL THINGS TO DO), bordering Perak.

Over the years, the list of things to do in Cameron Highlands has expanded so widely that even the main tourist attractions can take at least two days to cover. They are spread beyond the main town of Tanah Rata, extending further into Brinchang and Ringlet.

Easy Chicken Salad Recipe

Repurposing leftover steamed chicken creates a fresh, sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy No-Cook Chicken Salad with the fragrance of spring onions. Call this recipe (NO-COOK BOILED PEANUT SALAD) No-Cook Chicken Salad, or even Chicken Salsa, thanks to the burst of sweet tangy notes from pineapple.

What type of cooked chicken can be repurposed for this salad? Literally anything, from fried chicken, curried chicken, roast chicken, or steamed chicken as in this recipe. No leftovers? No problem. The easiest method is steaming a piece of chicken with some salt or pan-grilling chicken, which also works for making a healthy chicken salad.

Spicy Eggs Recipe: Resepi Telur Balado Indonesia

Boiled eggs (TURMERIC EGG/TELUR KUNYIT) coated in a spicy Indonesian chili paste are Telur Balado, or simply “spicy eggs.” The Balado Sauce is the heart of Indonesian food, packed with fiery flavors and the fragrance of bay leaves, known as daun salam in both Indonesian and Bahasa Malaysia.

 

For extra aroma, ingredients like daun limau purut (kaffir lime leaves) can also be added.

 

Balado sauce is sold ready-made in stores, but nothing beats homemade Balado sauce. Even as a no-cook sauce, it pairs well as a dipping sauce. Just squeeze some lime juice atop before serving with dishes like ikan bakar (grilled fish), mee goreng (fried noodles), or other classic Indonesian dishes (SALTED FISH SAMBAL). 

Xiang Bak Kut Teh – Kota Kemuning (Shah Alam)

On this particular Saturday afternoon, I walked into Xiang Kota Kemuning, a branch of the  Klang Original Xiang Bak Kut Teh, right as they opened at 11:15 AM. As the first customer, I had the freedom to choose my seat. The ambiance, with its classic Chinese design,  made me feel at home - it was exactly the kind of setting you'd expect for an a Bak Kut Teh meal (EASY INSTANT BAK KUT TEH RECIPE).

For those who prefer a visual representation, I’ve captured my experience at Xiang in a video (see below). Don’t forget to subscribe to our Nava’s Zen Channel for more updates. Subscribe Now. But for those who prefer reading, let me share my experience.

No-Cook Boiled Peanut Salad Recipe

Refreshing, tangy, and with just the right touch of sweetness and spiciness - this No-Cook Asian Style Peanut Salad is pure deliciousness (NO-COOK CUCUMBER PINEAPPLE SALAD). In Malaysia, peanuts are a staple. Whether fried, boiled (kacang rebus), or even from a canned, braised or boiled peanuts, used in Malaysian Chinese cooking.

 

That canned variety is especially convenient for salads. Just drain and toss it with chilies, tomatoes, zucchini (or cucumber), and fresh coriander leaves.

Salted Fish Sambal Recipe: Sambal Ikan Asin

The traditional classic, a much-loved Malaysian food. Spicy, savory, tangy, and bursting with umami, this Salted Fish Sambal (Sambal Ikan Asin) with crispy fried salted fish is a dish that never goes out of style.

Between the Indonesian sambal ikan asin and the Malaysian version, the ingredients are almost the same. But it is the sambal that sets apart Indonesian food and Malaysian food (CHICKEN RENDANG/RENDANG AYAM) from the rest of Southeast Asian cuisine. 

While spicy gravies and sauces are common across Southeast Asia, where vegetables, meat, and seafood are cooked, the sambal remains the heart and soul of both Malaysian and Indonesian kitchens.

Restoran Kopitiam Number One (Taman Sri Muda) Shah Alam

Recommended by a friend, we decided to visit Restoran Kopitiam Number One, a corner-lot Chinese coffee shop, on a Saturday. Parking was a bit of a challenge; it took a few rounds before we finally found a spot. Arriving around 11:30 a.m., we were greeted by an array of hawker stalls offering a modest yet varied selection of food. As expected of a traditional coffee shop, staples like bread toast with eggs and hot beverages shared the spotlight with other local favorites.

Japanese Grilled Teriyaki Salmon Recipe

Mention salmon, and what pops to mind is a Japanese recipe. Between teppanyaki salmon and teriyaki salmon, this recipe focuses on teriyaki salmon. Either a dry style or coated in a thick sauce using soy sauce as the base. It’s garnished with crispy sesame seeds and spring onions (also known as scallions or green onions) for a fresh, crisp, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavor.

This recipe is a fusion between Indian-style salmon and Japanese-style salmon. Without the soy sauce base, it becomes grilled salmon, masala salmon or even Japanese grilled salmon. Japanese teriyaki salmon is an easy cooking technique relying on pantry staples (PUMPKIN SOUP). 

Pumpkin Soup

Undeniably irresistible, homemade pumpkin soup is simple yet satisfying. Authentic, buttery, creamy, thick, and indulgent. The classic pumpkin soup, kept simple (CHICKEN SOUP INDIAN STYLE). 

Call it a wellness food, great when you’re under the weather, or as a light yet fulfilling home meal. Using home-grown pumpkins from non-commercial gardeners makes this homemade pumpkin soup affordable and generally free from chemicals and pesticides.