Fuel Real Life with Nature Valley’s New Salted Caramel Nut and Peanut & Chocolate Protein Bars

Nature Valley, the world’s number one granola bar brand, announces its latest innovation in wholesome snacking: Nature Valley Protein, now available in two indulgent flavours – Salted Caramel Nut and Peanut & Chocolate.

Crafted for real life and real appetites, Nature Valley Protein brings together wholesome goodness and delicious taste in every bite. Perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying snack, it strikes the ideal balance of flavour, convenience and nutrition – made to fuel every lifestyle. Each gluten-free bar contains 10g of protein, covering 20% of the daily protein needs in one satisfying bar. No artificial colours. No preservatives. Just real ingredients consumers can see and taste.

Get your protein refuel with the Salted Caramel Nut bar, a delicious mix of peanuts and almonds wrapped in a lightly salted caramel coating. Or grab the Peanut & Chocolate bar for a classic
combination of roasted peanuts and chocolate chips, dipped in rich chocolate. A generous spread of nuts and seeds gives every bite the signature Nature Valley crunch - it’s satisfying, wholesome and deliciously real.

Real Energy. Real Ingredients. Real Life. Snacks That Can Keep Up
Today’s on-the-go lifestyles call for snacks that do more. As schedules get busier and functional foods become essential to keep up, Nature Valley Protein Bars deliver: tasty, energy-packed, and made with honest ingredients for convenient, wholesome refuelling.


Since inventing the world’s first granola bar in 1975, Nature Valley has led the charge in better snacking — selling over 2.7 billion bars last year to more than 102 million people worldwide. The new Protein range is the latest proof that the brand knows what real snacking should taste like: good, simple, and satisfying.


Whether it’s a midday pick-me-up, a quick breakfast on the run, or a snack to tide over till dinner,  Nature Valley Protein Bars make it easy to keep you sustained throughout the day. Certified Halal, the Nature Valley protein bars cater to a variety of dietary preferences and requirements.


Nature Valley Protein’s Salted Caramel Nut and Peanut & Chocolate bars are now available at major supermarkets and retailers, such as Aeon, Jaya Grocer, Village Grocer, Qra and Sogo.


For more information, visit Nature Valley Malaysia’s Instagram!

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Celebrate Organic Month the Authentic Way with Alce Nero! (Bonus: Laksa Johor Recipe)

 Celebrate Organic Month the Authentic Way with Alce Nero!

Alce Nero invites Malaysians to enjoy wholesome, earth-friendly meals with versatile, organic pasta made for every home kitchen.

This September and October, Alce Nero is joining Malaysians in celebrating Organic Month and National Pasta Month, two occasions that honour the joy of wholesome eating and mindful living. They are to highlight the importance of choosing food that is both authentic and organic. With its range of organic pasta, Alce Nero unites these celebrations into one delicious experience, making it simple for Malaysians to enjoy meals that are good for themselves and good for the world.

As Italy’s leading organic brand, Alce Nero has been a trusted name for decades, committed to growing food that is good for people and the planet. Every product is a reflection of Alce Nero’s philosophy: “Grown with love, free from chemicals.” From farm to fork, Alce Nero works with dedicated organic farmers who nurture their crops in GMO-free, pesticide-free fields, ensuring authentic and wholesome goodness in every bite. As an Alce Nero organic wheat farmer shares, “The land is life. It’s a gift we must nurture, preserve, and protect.” Every plate of Alce Nero pasta reflects the farmers’ collective effort to care for the soil and preserve its authenticity.

Alce Nero’s organic pasta is made from premium organic durum wheat, naturally rich in fibre and nutrients, and cultivated without pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilisers. These qualities are assured by the European Organic Certification, which ensures the highest level of food safety and integrity. Because it is free of any harmful chemical substances and GMOs, Alce Nero pasta nourishes the body while respecting its natural functions. An organic diet like this is known to support a healthier lifestyle and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Alce Nero’s coloured pasta also uses natural colouring, made with plant-based ingredients — orange and red pastas from organic tomatoes and the green ones from organic spinach, staying true to the brand’s organic principles. When paired with Alce Nero’s organic sauces, olive oils, or vinegars, every dish becomes a wholesome satisfying meal, rooted in the simple belief that food should be as honest as the people who grow it.

Alce Nero is rooted in Italian recipes, carrying the soul of Italian culinary traditions, yet it also adapts beautifully to Malaysian twists, letting you enjoy both authentic and local flavours.

“Malaysians don’t just choose between Western or local flavours — they love both. With Alce Nero’s organic pasta, you can enjoy a baked macaroni one day and a spicy pasta goreng the next. Our pasta is the perfect canvas for any recipe, whether it’s Italian-inspired or uniquely Malaysian.” says Teoh Wei Ling, Head of Marketing at A.Clouet (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.

In celebration of Organic Month and National Pasta Month, from 1 September to 31 October 2025, Alce Nero invites Malaysians to join the Buy & Win Contest and stand a chance to win prizes worth over RM8,000:

• Step 1: Spend a minimum of RM20 on Alce Nero organic pasta

• Step 2: DM your receipt via @alceneromy (IG) or Alce Nero Malaysia (FB)

• Step 3 (Bonus Prize): Snap a creative pasta dish with Alce Nero and tag @alceneromy

Go Organic, Go Authentic! With Alce Nero, every meal is a celebration of wholesome goodness. Discover more Malaysian fusion recipes at www.alcenero.asia/recipes, or follow @alceneromy on Instagram and Alce Nero Malaysia on Facebook for everyday inspiration, new recipe ideas, and a little something different to try in your kitchen today.

Check out the recipe for Laksa Johor here:

Recipe: Laksa Johor

INGREDIENTS 

Part A (Blended) 2” of lemongrass 2” of fresh Ginger 2” of galangal 2 big onion 2 bowls of dried chili 8 dried prawns/shrimps Part C 1/2 cucumber (hollow removed and sliced) 1 bowl of boiled beansprouts  1 bowl of sliced long beans  1/2 limes 1 cup of chopped selasih Lime Alce Nero Organic Spaghetti

Part B 1kg "Ikan Kembung” 1/2 cup of fish curry powder  2 cup of santan 1 spoon of kerisik (toasted, grated coconut) Salt and sugar

COOKING METHODS

1. Boil the fish with water, debone and lightly blend. Reserve half a cup of the fish stock.

 
2. Prepare the pasta according to the instructions on the pack.

 
3. Blend 2 stalks of lemongrass, 5 cm of gingers, 5cm of galangal, 2 large onions, 3 dried chilies and 8 dried shrimp. Fry it until fragrant. Stir in the blended fish, then add fish curry powder, santan, kerisik and the served fish stock. Incorporate well and bring the mixture to the boil. Allow it to be thickened too!

4. To serve, place a nest of pasta in a shallow bowl, pour over the fish laksa and add julienned cucumber, blanched beansprouts, finely sliced long beans and onions, fresh basil and sliced calamansi.

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Iconic Collaboration: Korea’s No. 1 Instant Noodles Nongshim Shin Ramyun Meets Michelin-Starred Jay Fai for an Unforgettable Fusion

Introducing Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum – A Perfect Harmony of Bold Korean Spice and Authentic Thai Flavors

Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum, the latest culinary innovation by Nongshim which was launched recently in Thailand, is now officially available in Malaysia. Created in collaboration with Jay Fai, the legendary Michelin-starred street food chef from Bangkok, Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum is a unique fusion that celebrates the iconic bold flavors of Nongshim Shin Ramyun with the rich, aromatic taste of authentic Thai Tom Yum.

Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum Soup – Multipack, Packet & Bowl

          

Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum Stir Fry – Multipack, Packet & Bowl

       

 

Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum is not your ordinary Tom Yum. This exciting creation harmonises the signature spicy and savory notes of Nongshim Shin Ramyun with the sour and umami flavors of traditional Thai Tom Yum. Featuring perfectly al-dente noodles, shiitake mushrooms, bok choy, carrots, and exotic spices, this flavor promises a multi-layered taste experience like no other.

Known globally as the "Queen of Street Food," Chef Jay Fai is the first street hawker to earn a Michelin star. Her exceptional dishes and relentless pursuit of perfection have earned her worldwide acclaim. This collaboration brings her passion for bold, authentic flavors to the Nongshim Shin Ramyun family.

“I’ve always believed in staying true to flavors that speak to the heart. We are proud that with Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum, we’ve managed to create something extraordinary that honours both Korean and Thai traditions,” shares Chef Jay Fai.

As Korea’s No. 1 instant noodle brand, Nongshim Shin Ramyun is celebrated for its perfectly chewy noodles, rich broth, and uncompromising quality. The new Tom Yum flavour is part of the iconic Nongshim Shin Ramyun family, offering the same signature taste that fans know and love while exploring new flavor frontiers.

Adding to the allure of Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum is its star-studded endorsement. Recently, global superstar Blackpink’s Lisa shared her fondness for Chef Jay Fai’s creations during her visits to Bangkok. This further cements the cultural connection and appeal of this remarkable collaboration.

The Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum range is officially available across major supermarkets and hypermarkets in Malaysia, featuring new fully purple product packaging in two variants: classic soup-based and stir-fried. Both variants are Halal-certified, ensuring they can be enjoyed by a diverse audience.

Experience the bold harmony of Korean spice and Thai tradition with Nongshim Shin Ramyun Tom Yum. Visit your nearest store to grab this exciting new flavor and savor the collaboration of a lifetime.

For more information, please visit Nongshim's website or connect with us on social media (FB: NongshimMalaysia, IG: @nongshim_malaysia, TikTok: nongshim_malaysia)

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Celebrate Lunar New Year with Elevete Patisserie's Exquisite Festive Delights

This Lunar New Year, Elevete Patisserie invites you to indulge in the art of gifting with a curated selection of festive treats. Perfect for sharing joy, showing appreciation, and elevating celebrations, these hand-crafted delights combine tradition and innovation in every bite.

Orders and deliveries are available from now until February 2, 2025. Visit Elevete Patisserie Chinese New Year Collection to place your orders. The collection is Halal-certified.

1. Prosperity Madeleine Tower (RM188) 

Symbolising wealth and good fortune, this visually stunning centrepiece resembles a pineapple ("ong lai") with 27 golden French pineapple madeleines. Standing 11 inches tall, this tower is a statement piece for any Lunar New Year table.

2. Lunar Delights Cookie Box (RM98) 

A must-have for festive gatherings, this cube-shaped box is filled with an assortment of cookies that delight the senses. Beautifully packaged, it’s the perfect gift to share sweet moments with loved ones.

● Pineapple Tart (6 pcs)
● Peanut Cookie (8 pcs)
● Butter Cookie (8 pcs)
● Shortbread Cookies (8 pcs)
● Black Sesame Cookie (8 pcs)

3. Lunar Luxe Treats Box (RM108) 

Elevate your celebrations with this luxurious assortment of macarons and choux au craquelin, offering a fusion of festive flavors such as: 

● Fatcarons: Yuzu, Matcha Mango, Raspberry Pistachio, Pineapple Tart and Rose Lychee (1 pc each)
● Choux: Red Berries and Lemon (2 pcs each)

Packaged in a cube box of nine, it’s a show-stopping treat for any festive occasion.

4. Lunar Luxe Sweets Box (East Meets West) (RM138) 

Celebrate the fusion of eastern flavors and western elegance with this exclusive gift box. Featuring an array of tarts, fatcarons, and choux, including: 

● Pineapple Madeleines, Golden Lemon Ingots, Strawberry and Yuzu Tart, Red Berries and Lemon Choux
● Raspberry Rose Lychee and Matcha Mango Fatcarons

5. Joyful Lunar Celebration Cake Bites (RM138) 

Perfectly sized at 1.5 inches each, these bite-sized cakes feature: 

● Sourdough Carrot Cake Bites: A savory-sweet twist with sourdough tang. 

● Raspberry Red Velvet Cake Bites: A rich, fruity indulgence. 

Packaged in a vibrant window box, these cake bites are designed for gatherings big and small.

6. Lunar Treasures Tiffin (RM188) 

Pay homage to tradition with this elegant three-tier tiffin filled with festive favorites: 

● Top Layer: 10 Pineapple Tarts
● Middle Layer: Assorted cookies (Butter, Black Sesame, Peanut, and Shortbread)
● Bottom Layer: Orange Butter Cake (300g)

A perfect blend of nostalgia and luxury, this tiffin is a thoughtful gift for family or corporate gifting.

7. Lunar Golden Treasures (RM138) 

This elegant rectangular gift box holds 18 buttery pineapple tarts, crafted with premium ingredients and presented in a sleek design with a touch of opulence.

*****

Delivery and Pre-Order Information

● Orders and delivery period start from now until February 2, 2025.

● Except for the Prosperity Madeleine Tower which starts to deliver from January 22, 2025 onwards.

● Pre-order or order by 5 PM for FREE same-day delivery* or choose convenient pickup options. 

● For more information, please visit Elevete Patisserie's website: https://www.elevete.com.my/collections/chinese-new-year-hamper-gifts

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CNY 2025: Le Mei, Le Meridien Putrajaya

Usher in the Year of the Snake with an auspicious, delectable culinary journey at Le Mei Chinese Restaurant, located in Le Meridien Putrajaya. Chef Lim and his culinary team have specially curated four luxurious Chinese New Year set menus featuring the finest ingredients and authentic Chinese flavours, designed to bring family and friends together in celebration of prosperity, happiness and good fortune. 

Spring and Happiness Set (RM2,188 per table of 10 diners)

Highlights:

• Salmon Fish Yee Sang: Toss for luck and abundance with a colorful blend of crispy treasures and blackcurrant-plum dressing.
• Braised crab roe soup: A rich and comforting bowl of sun-dried seafood goodness.
• Steamed patin fish: A harmony of flavours with Hunan fermented chillies.
• Chilled pistachio sago: A refreshing dessert to conclude your feast.

Everlasting Prosperity Set (RM2,688 per table of 10 diners)

Highlights:

• Double boiled Silkie Fowl Soup: Infused with fish maw, porcini mushrooms, and dried scallops for a nourishing experience.
• Lemongrass crispy duck: Roasted to perfection with aromatic lemongrass marinade.
• Pan fried mochi strawberry with cream cheese

Wealth and Fortune Set (RM3,888 per table of 10 diners)

Highlights:

• Four Seasons Yee Sang: A premium toss with salmon, tuna and snow pear.
• Australian rock lobster: Poached in superior broth with cheese and roasted garlic.
• Fried organic brown rice: Elevated with sakura shrimps, foie gras and seafood.

Splendor and Luxurious Set (RM1,590 per table of 5 diners )

Highlights:

• Braised goose web and abalone: A hearty dish with fatt choy and oyster sauce.
• Wok fried beef short ribs: Bold flavours of roasted garlic and black pepper sauce.
• Golden spring rolls with yam and sweet potato: A crisp and indulgent finale. 

Each set includes a complimentary bottle of Wolf Blass Bilyara Shiraz to toast to new beginnings. Available from 11 January until 12 February 2025. 

For more information or reservations, please call +603 8689 6888 ext. 6868 or email dining.lmputrajaya@lemeridien.com 

*****

We were invited to Le Mei Chinese Restaurant for a preview of the CNY set menus and what a feast we had! We started off with the prosperity toss, aka lo hei, with the Salmon and Ikura Yee Sang with green tosaka nori, crispy shredded treasures and blackcurrant-plum dressing, followed by a comforting, nourishing bowl of Double-boiled silkie fowl soup with fish maw, porcini mushrooms and dried scallops.

Next, we had the auspicious Braised whole abalone and sea cucumber, black mushroom and premium oyster sauce - an absolute opulent treat. One of our favourite dishes of the evening, the Lemongrass Marinated Roasted Crispy Duck was extremely well executed, revealing a thin crisp skin, with juicy and tender meat.

Turbot fish is not commonly served in Chinese restaurants in Malaysia, so we were pleasantly surprised to try this here at Le Mei. The firm, flaky turbot fish was steamed along with Hunan fermented chillies; a spicy, salty delight. Fried rice is usually passed over for the other dishes on the menu but I have to say the Fried organic brown rice with sakura shrimps, seafood and foie gras was so good, we wished we could have another bowl. For a sweet end, we were served a Double boiled nostoc jelly dessert soup, with snow pear, snow fungus and red dates along with Deep fried glutinous rice balls and Mochi strawberry with cream cheese.

Check out our YouTube video here:

Pork-free.

Opening hours: Lunch 12.00 - 3.00pm and Dinner 6.30 - 10.30 pm. 

Location: Le Mei Chinese Restaurant, Le Meridien Putrajaya, Lebuh IRC, IOI Resort City, 62502 Putrajaya, Sepang, Malaysia (located next to IOI City Mall).

Tel: 03-8689 6888

Website: http://www.lemeridienputrajaya.com


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Hotel Review: Palm Garden Hotel, Putrajaya x SplashMania Stay Experience

School's out! To all the mama and papas out there, check out this latest promotion from Palm Garden Hotel, Putrajaya - the SplashMania Stay Experience which promises a comfortable stay at the hotel plus a fun-filled unforgettable day out at SplashMania to keep your kids entertained this school holiday season. 

Palm Garden Hotel, Putrajaya is located in IOI Resort City, and is a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, a range of independent boutique hotels within Marriott Bonvoy. Be greeted by the large wooden wau installment at the hotel lobby - the wau is a traditional kite originating from Malaysia, while sipping on your welcome drink. 

The Room

We checked in to the Family Room (46 sqm), a spacious, contemporary space with 1 king-sized bed and 1 twin bed - perfect for a family of 2 adults and 2 kids. The hotel has recently undergone refurbishment so all rooms are modern and elegantly designed with elements of Malaysian culture. There is also a work desk, sofa, LCD TV, mini fridge, coffee/tea making facilities, as well as a bathtub/shower in the bathroom - everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Food / Dining

Breakfast is included with this package, and is served daily from 6.30am to 10.30am at Palms Cafe, the hotel's all day dining restaurant. The breakfast selection was fantastic - we thoroughly enjoyed Asian specialties such as the nasi lemak, mee goreng, a selection of roti made to order, as well as the pastries, egg counter, and more. The barista here also makes a very good cuppa coffee (with nice coffee art to boot).

You can also enjoy a la carte lunch or dinner here at Palms Cafe, and buffets are usually served on weekends or during public holidays and festive season. We had two of our dinners here, ordering from their a la carte menu - we recommend the Wild mushroom soup (RM35), served in a farmer's loaf, Melting Cheese burger (RM48), Grilled Lamb Chops (RM80) and Spaghetti aglio e olio (RM45). 

For fans of Nyonya cuisine, a visit to Madam Lee Nyonya Private Dining is a must. The dining space is beautiful and vast. Upon arrival, we were served with Kam Cheng, their welcome drink and invited to try on their Nyonya kebaya for free, should we wish. Start with the Pie Tee, crunchy top hats filled with jicama, mushrooms and prawns, followed by a selection of delectable mains such as Kapitan Ayam, Lemak Nenas Udang, Ayam Buah Keluak, Nyonya Chap Chye, Nyonya Curry Mee and Nyonya Nasi Ulam. 

Located directly below the restaurant is Baba Bar, a stylish lounge blending Peranakan heritage with modern flair. You will find handcrafted cocktails and mocktails with a local touch as well as light bites from Madam Lee served here. Chat the night away with your friends, or entertain yourself with a game of foosball, pool or watching a football match on the large screen TV.

Hotel guests are also invited to unwind from 4-6pm daily at the Courtyard with their welcome ritual, Kopi Dulu. Local snacks and kuih-muih is served along with an old-style coffee brewed the traditional way, employing a cloth strainer and a vintage charcoal stove. 

Hotel Facilities

For the fitness fanatics, there is a well-equipped gym in the hotel, accessible by hotel keycard 24/7. There are two outdoor swimming pools; one of which is suitable for children and comes with a water slide. There is also a small playground area next to the pool. 

The SplashMania Stay Experience

Guests booking under this package will receive 2 adult + 2 kids tickets to SplashMania. Return transfer from the hotel to SplashMania is also included in the price. 

SplashMania is an expansive 18-acre water theme park located in Gamuda Cove, a 30-minute journey from the hotel. The theme park features 39 exciting rides and attractions, suitable for all different age groups. Our kids had such a fun time exploring the theme park and enjoying the various rides / attractions - their favourites include the Shaka Waka, Plunge, Sumaumeira Drop, Twista and Maniac Racers. Highly recommended for a family fun day out!

Other family activities

The hotel is located within a 5-min walking distance from IOI City Mall, the largest shopping mall in Malaysia. Here, you can indulge in lots of activities with your family such as ice skating, watching a movie at the cinema, shopping, roller skating, singing to your heart's content at the karaoke, bowling, or visit IOI City Farm, Malaysia's first indoor urban wildlife adventure park. The hotel also provides a complimentary shuttle bus service to the mall.

Check out our YouTube video here:

Quote promotional code 'E4000' when making your booking for the SplashMania Stay Experience. This offer is valid from 1 December 2024 to 31 March 2025. 

Check-in time 3pm, check-out time 12pm.

Location: Palm Garden Hotel, Putrajaya, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, IOI Resort City, 62502 Putrajaya, Malaysia. (complimentary on-site parking)

Tel: 03-8943 2233

Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/kulpt-palm-garden-hotel-putrajaya-a-tribute-portfolio-hotel/overview/

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