Efficient egress
Citizens accessing the National Integrated Immigration System (MyNIISe) can now log in to the application with their pre-existing MyDigital ID, as part of the government’s goal to modernise immigration procedures. MyDigital ID, which can be used to access a variety of government online apps and portals, verifies a user’s identity against the National Registration Department without storing any data. This one-for-all initiative means Malaysians no longer need to fumble around with multiple accounts or passwords.
The update was announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs earlier this month and took effect on Jan 15. MyNIISe, a digital immigration system created by the Malaysian Immigration Department, is intended to remove wait times to get your passport stamped or the need to fill out forms. Users instead generate a personal QR code to scan at border checkpoints or airports, streamlining their entry and exit from the country.
MyNIISe is currently being tested in Johor Bahru. Malaysians can expect to see it integrated in stages at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2, as well as Bayan Lepas, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu airports. In the meantime, they can still use the MyBorderPass app for immigration clearance at most crossing points. (imi.gov.my)
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Renewed dwellings
Once a humble servants’ quarters, a crumbling annexe built in 1904 has been given a new lease of life as The Qing Suites, the latest extension to Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion in George Town, Penang. The boutique stay, just across the road from The Blue Mansion, adds to the conservation of the heritage building and introduces 13 elegant rooms to the haven. Helming restoration efforts were Laurence Loh and his firm Arkitek LLA, who led the refurbishment of the original structure back in 1989.
The three sumptuous rooms are Signature Suites, with wall-to-wall windows overlooking the azure main establishment; Garden Suites that boast private lawns; and Terrace Suites sporting direct access to a rooftop garden. Adorning each space are custom-built furniture, soft lanterns, ceramics and paintings by local artisans that complement the retained architecture, while modern luxuries — think Bluetooth speakers and coffee machines — ensure every stay is comfortable and convenient.
The new accommodations are not the only highlight of this upgraded wing. Sharing the space is Virtue TCM, the first spa that is entirely focused on traditional Chinese medicine methods to provide restorative rituals for both mind and body.
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In-house physicians start each session with consultations and pulse diagnoses, before treating clients with personalised therapies based on acupuncture, cupping, herbal therapy, gua sha and more.
Guests can nip across the street to The Blue Mansion’s Indigo Restaurant or Café Mangga for some grub, or explore The Qing Suites’ own offerings. All-day dining is available at the Courtyard, while the Tranquility Tea Room invites connoisseurs to savour Chinese concoctions. (cheongfatttzemansion.com)
Passage of time
It tis not about the destination but the journey — and leisure company Belmond knows this very well. With signature green exteriors, wood-panelled corridors and silken furnishings, its Eastern & Oriental Express becomes a serene place for guests to escape the demands of the digital world and embrace nature in the confines of its luxurious coaches that act as a travelling memoir of a beguiling age that all should experience at least once.
In collaboration with Save Wild Tigers — an organisation commited to protecting and preserving these wild animals — the hospitality group has curated a seven-day adventure from May 10 to 16 in aid of the movement.
Tiger Express is set to take off in Singapore and trail through the peninsula’s jungles en route to Taman Negara, one of the world’s oldest rainforests that is thought to be more than 130 million years old and where conservation efforts take place to protect the Malayan tiger.
On Day 3, visitors will arrive at this ancient land where there will be an opportunity for some to join a nature photographer and conservationist on a cave excursion; and for others, meeting and interacting with local villagers before returning to the train for lunch.
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The carriage will reach Penang the following day, when there will be an exploration of George Town’s two most historic buildings, both with Unesco Heritage status.
An exclusive guided tour of Cheah Kongsi Temple awaits as well as a short trishaw ride to the iconic Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion.
To end the trip, a three-day, two-night stay at The Datai Langkawi — located in a 10-million-year-old rainforest — has been organised so travellers may spend their time on Datai Bay or even enjoy a Malay wellness treatment at The Spa. On the last night, a final celebration will take place with beachside cocktails followed by an intimate gala dinner against the backdrop of the sun setting on the Andaman Sea. (belmond.com)
