512 Studio, Kelana Jaya: One Stop Romance Photography Hub

If you have been following me on my social media platforms, you’d realized that deep down, I’m a hopeless romantic at heart. 14 and going on 15 years of marriage with my husband and we are still checking out dating spots and romantic holiday destinations all around Malaysia. But we have yet to delve into recommending places where you can take beautiful photos of yourselves and your loved ones.

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So here’s introducing 512 Studio. I found them on Facebook when I was looking for some photography tips. Located somewhere in Kelana Jaya, the cozy studio is a one stop romance themed photography hub.

Interview with Ms.Osa Lim of 512 Studio, Kelana Jaya

Video interview with Ms.Osa Lim, one of the key person in 512 Studio. 512 Studio offers plenty of photography service but is mainly focused on romantic theme; pre-wedding, bridesmaids/group sisters, personal portraiture and of course family and maternity photoshoot upon request. Their services comes in affordable packages and most of these packages offers complimentary outfit for you to wear during your photoshoot.

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They have more than 50 outfits for you to choose from and their makeup service is inclusive in all their packages.

A selection of dresses in 512 Studio

Take a look at the video for a better idea on the outfits that you can choose from on 512 Studio during your photography session.

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Consultations with the makeup artist and photographer is complimentary once you signed up for any of their photography service and if you signed up for their bridesmaids/group sisters photoshoot, do take advantage of this service and discuss with them on the themes that you want, makeup style etc for an optimum outcome. They will help you from A-Z and even will help you pick out the outfit that is suitable for you if you are the indecisive lot.

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Behind the scene in 512 Studio

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Miss Osa Lim, busy preparing the set for the photoshooting session.

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Makeup artist working her magic.

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Hair being styled to perfection

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All done and getting ready for photoshooting session. Accessories like earrings and necklaces are provided. And so are high heels but I would recommend you to bring your own, especially high heels.

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Don’t worry if you have a bad posture and is bad at posing for the camera. 512 Studio’s photographer is always ready to assist you and will instruct you on how to pose for the camera. Just listen to the instruction given closely and I assure you that you will look fabulous in the picture.

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Shooting session in progress. Two session for the most basic package, Personal Portraiture: One in a white dress while another one in the casual wear of your choice. The photography session takes just about 2-3 hours and you will be given ample time to choose the picture that you like to keep and print out after that.

Curious on how the photography session turned out on how the pictures are like? Well, I have to say that I am very happy with the outcome.

I won’t be showing it here though, you’re gonna have to visit their Facebook page HERE and spot me there. And do check out their current ongoing promotion while you are at it. I can assure you that the packages offered are very reasonable and will not blow up your pocket.

512 Studio
SizMakeUp.com 心。嫁衣
Block C5, 2nd floor , Parklane Commercial Hub,jalan Ss 7/26,kelana jaya.KL

WaZe:3.108078763250681,101.59470681712628

Landmark: Beside Paradigm mall behind medical central

Contact: Osa Lim 0169717453

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Beautiful Terengganu: Banana Boat Experience in Resorts World Kijal

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My family and I had this opportunity to ride on one during our RW Media Retreat in Resorts World Kijal, Terengganu, and it was quite an experience.

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I rode on Banana Boat a couple of times during my stay in Feringghi Beach, Penang, but was particularly nervous before the ride when I was in Kijal, as I usually go solo and both my son and husband can’t swim. Furthermore the sea looks particularly deep an rough when we were there. I’m the only swimmer in the family, and I somewhat had doubts riding it with both of my boys. I wasn’t really looking forward to play the Baywatch girl in worst case scenario, but then again, it was an opportunity too good to pass and we went ahead for it anyhow and I’m glad we did.

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Our Banana Boat being towed in the sea at at incredibly fast speed. I was practically on Adrenaline high. A banana boat or a water sled, is an unpowered, inflatable recreational boat that’s meant for towing. The banana boat ride can often be found in public or private beaches. Different banana boat models usually accommodate three to ten riders sitting on a larger, main tube and resting their feet on two laterally flanking tubes which stabilize the boat. The main tube is often yellow and banana-shaped, hence the name ‘Banana Boat’.

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The sea water splashing towards us and had us screaming our heads off in excitement before the boat toppled over and had us panicked for a little while before getting back up. Regardless how many times I’ve been on a Banana Boat ride, it will never be enough to prepare me when it is time to topple us over. It’s part of the fun but it still manage to get my heart stop for a little bit every time. I guess every experience on a Banana Boat is like a first to me. The Banana boat ride is definitely one of the exhilarating activities that guests could indulge in during their stay at Resorts World Kijal, but I wouldn’t recommend it to the faint hearted as it can be quite bumpy and unpredictable.

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Resorts World Kijal offers other sea sports rides and activities too, so if extreme things is your thing, be sure to take on em if you want a shot of Adrenaline rush or two during your stay in Resorts World Kijal.

If you are looking for some great escapade in Terengganu, you might want to consider Resorts World Kijal. Resorts World Kijal is currently running a promotion until 31st December, 2016, so if you are heading to the East Coast, Resorts World Kijal will be your best bet.

* Kijal Weekend Golf Package is offered at only RM276 (or RM138 per person). This package includes one-night stay in a Deluxe room with a unique work of art deco bathtub, and a round of golf in the championship 18-hole course for two. Both room options come with breakfast for two at the resort’s Restoran Kampong Meraga Beris

* Kijal Weekend Promotion, offers a night’s stay in a Deluxe room for RM199 or Premier Seaview room at RM249. Both room options come with breakfast for two at the resort’s Restoran Kampong Meraga Beris.

* Turtle Watching Package includes a three-day, two-night stay in a Premier Seaview room, inclusive of breakfast for two. Price is RM670 nett.

For more information and ongoing promos in Resorts World Kijal, please refer to the information below.

Resorts World Kijal
Add: Km 28, Jalan Kemaman-Dungun, 24100 Kijal, Kemaman, Terengganu.
Email: customercare@rwgenting.com
Tel: (609) 864 1188
Fax: (609) 864 1688
Facebook: https://facebook.com/ResortsWorldKijal/

Disclaimer: Banana Boat pictures courtesy of Hanny Abdullah and Emily Lowe.

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Colours of Malaysia Performance by Orkestra Traditional Malaysia

I was on my way to MaTic in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur to watch the Colours of Malaysia Performance by Orkestra Traditional Malaysia when I met a Japanese and Korean tourist on the GoKL bus. They were heading to MaTic to watch the performance like me too. Intending to be a good host, I introduced myself to them and we exchanged contacts with each other.

The Japanese tourist, whose name is Miyako was all excited about the cultural performance that we will be watching that night. Apparently she is a huge fan of all things cultural and wishes to learn more about the cultural diversity in Malaysia. But she made a couple of statements that rendered me speechless. One of it is that she thinks that it is a shame that Islamization in Malaysia has somewhat restricted culture and heritage preservation. I wanted to tell her that it is not true, but I zipped up my mouth as there are truth in her words.

Islamization has indeed somewhat stopped some of the Malay culture from being passed down to the younger generation. For example, plays and dances with ritualistic elements like “Mak Yong”, “Main Puteri”, and “Ulek Mayang”, is somewhat prohibited by the religious authorities and we don’t see such dance and plays so openly anymore.

Like what Miyako say, Islamization in Malaysia has also changed the way Malay-Muslims in Malaysia dressed. Clothing that’s similar to Arabian robes are much more prefered during festive seasons in comparison to the traditional Malay clothing that the elder generations used to wear.

I have nothing to say to defend against Miyako’s words, sadly. And I will refrain from making any sensitive statements as while I can see that there are truth in her words, I would like to believe that efforts are being made by various bodies and authorities in Malaysia to preserves the unique cultures in Malaysia.

Ministry of Tourism and Culture and JKKN have been aggresively campaigning to introduce and also reintroduce traditional Malaysian culture to not only the people of Malaysia, but to tourists as well.

One of their efforts, I believe is the Colours of Malaysia Performance by Orkestra Traditional Malaysia that we had the privilege to watch that night in MaTic. The entry to the performance was free of charge and all is welcome to watch.

Colours of Malaysia Performance by Orkestra Traditional Malaysia was led by the lively and talented conductor, Mr. Yazid Zakaria.

Orkestra Traditional Malaysia: Colours of Malaysia- Introduction of Musicians

Mr. Yazid Zakaria introducing the orchestra members.

Orkestra Traditional Malaysia: Colours of Malaysia- Canggung

One of the traditional song being played. This one is ‘Canggung’, originating from Perlis.

Orkestra Traditional Malaysia: Colours of Malaysia- Song from Sarawak

A traditional song from Sarawak

Orkestra Traditional Malaysia: Colours of Malaysia-Joget Pahang

Joget Pahang

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Dancers in beautiful costumes dancing to the tune of the instruments.

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Beautifully choreographed dance

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Dancers dancing to the song ‘Boria’ originating from the Pearl of The Orient, Penang.

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Pretty ladies dancing ‘Joget’

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And what’s a Joget without a partner?

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Graceful dancing by the ladies

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The musical instrument ‘Er Hu’ being played.

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A member of Orkestra Traditional Malaysia playing the Seruling.

Orkestra Traditional Malaysia: Colours of Malaysia- Sumpit Gimmick

The performances that night was nothing short of fantastic. Audiences were not only entertained by beautiful music but Conductor Yazid Zakaria made sure everyone had fun too. There’s plenty of interactive gimmicks. Audiences were also invited to dance on stage too. Yes, yes. I danced on stage with my son too. No. They did not pull us up there. I volunteered and drag my son along. I thought, why not? It was a good and clean fun.

Colours of Malaysia Performance by Orkestra Traditional Malaysia was indeed a wonderful experience and I thought that it is a good way to showcase the cultural diversity in Malaysia to the world. I’m definitely looking forward for more and hope this will be a continuos effort.

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Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain by Viper 2016

I’m not much of an athlete. In fact, I don’t do sports very well despite the fact that I love outdoors activities like camping, rock-climbing and jungle trekking. I’m never good at sports that has time cap to it where I have to keep up the pace with others. If you’re to ask me, the only sport that I enjoy is probably just horseback riding and some leisurely swimming, as I don’t need to keep up with others or really sweat it and use much of my energy and it gives me somewhat a relaxing effect afterwards, but I do enjoy the massively positive energy that emits from athletes during competitions and whatnot. It’s not only motivating but uplifting as well. Watching them alone gives me Adrenaline boost that could hype me up for days.

Anyway, I was given the privilege to be at the Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain Challenge by Viper 2016 last weekend alongside with some media friends. It was held in various Resorts World Genting’s properties where participants will need to go through 10km and 15 crazily tough obstacles challenges that was set up in order to be crowned the King of The Mountain. Some 10,000 participants has signed up for the challenge and I thought the figure alone was pretty much overwhelming in my opinion. I could scarcely believe that people would actually want to go for such tough challenge, but I guess there are loads of competitive people out there that will never turn down the opportunity to test their endurance.

Challengers were flagged off by wave. If I’m not mistaken, they were flagged off by 1,000 for each wave and the earliest wave were flagged off at 8am.

Any kind of sports is a no no without proper warming up. Here’s some of the challengers doing their warming up routine.

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Challengers doing sit ups

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Challengers doing push ups.

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Not sure what this is called, but this warming up routine sure looks fun.

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Here’s the emcee of the day, beckoning challengers towards him for flagging off sessions. He’s in charge of hyping up the challengers throughout the day. I don’t know how he does it, but his words were like enchantments itself. Even a bystanders would feel all hyped up after listening to his pep talk.

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Flagging off at the starting line at The Ranch in Genting Highlands.

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Challengers posing for us during the flagging off.

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The face of pure excitements. Can you see how pumped up they are? That’s plain energy you are looking at.

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Challengers running off towards the obstacles with anticipations and excitements.

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Spotted this sweet young couple participating in the Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain Challenge by Viper 2016 together. Now that’s a relationship goal everyone should aim for. Going through obstacles and challenges together, hand in hand, literally and figuratively. Now, isn’t that romantic? I don’t know what you think of it, but in my humble opinion, this is a romance worth writing about. This is the real til death do you apart kinda thing.

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One of the first few obstacles; The Bloated Belly. This is located at the Awana Driving Range. All you need to do is climbed onto the huge inflated balloon to pass the obstacle. Looks easy, no? Well don’t let the picture deceive you. It’s tougher than it looks.

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The walk of grime up ahead at Awana Teambuilding Pond. The Water Net Crawl is slippery, muddy and definitely not something you would want to go through alone.

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This obstacle course calls for teamwork and helping each other out in order to lift the net and pass through it.

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Participants might be strangers and were not properly introduced to each other prior to the challenge. But here during Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain Challenge by Viper 2016, they are all comrades.

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Holding true to the tagline of Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain Challenge by Viper 2016: Leave no one behind, everyone helps each other out during each obstacles that they encountered.

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One important thing that I learned during the Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain Challenge by Viper 2016 is that regardless of your achievements, you should give yourselves a pat on the back. Every little success calls for a celebration. That’s what life is all about, a celebration of little achievements.

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The Monkey Bar Split may look like something you can see in children’s playground, but this is certainly not a child’s play.

Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain Challenge 2016: Monkey Bar Split

The Monkey Bar Split takes alot of swinging and hanging efforts. No pun intended, though.

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Slightly similar to The Bloated Belly obstacle, this is the Cargo Net Climb.

Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain 2016: Cargo Net Climb

This obstacle course were located at Awana Longhouse.

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A closer look at the Cargo Net Climb challenge.

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It is definitely not for the fainthearted.

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On the far right of the picture is Austin, an expatriate from the US. He’s a special need individual as he is verbally challenged. But despite of being socially impaired, it does not stop him from pushing himself further. Now, that’s one thing each and every one of us should learn from Austin; never limit yourselves just because people tell you that you can’t do it. You are capable of anything that you want to achieve, as long as you put your mind to it.

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It was a very hot day. The Great Eastern Genting King of the Mountain by Viper 2016 challengers were in luck though. Under Armour’s obstacle treats them to all the Air Sirap Bandung they could ever dreamed of drinking.

Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain 2016: Obstacale 10

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Challengers were supposed to swing along without dunking themselves into the water, of course.

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This obstacle course looks easier than it looks and many ended up falling into the water and swam instead.

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Challenger swimming to the shore.

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10km and 15 obstacles is definitely not an easy feat, but as far as the Great Eastern Genting King of the Mountain by Viper 2016 challenge goes, nobody were left behind.

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With teamwork, sportsmanship, empathy and compassion, each and every one of the challengers had a taste of the finishing line and the glory of being crowned the King of The Mountain.

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Here’s a picture of patriotism

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A picture of joy despite being completely drained.

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A picture of cheekiness, telling us to take it easy and not to take life too seriously.

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A picture of teamwork and great effort

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A gentle reminder that moments in life should be immortalized and no cameras is too big for a wefie.

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A picture of sexy and beautiful bodies. I refuse to elaborate more on the grounds that I fear that I’d describe it too explicitly, so use your imagination, ladies and gentlemen.

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And last but not least, a picture of us, the Team Media.

The Great Eastern Genting King of The Mountain Challenge by Viper 2016 taught me alot of important lessons in life, but the most important one of all got to be the the one that tells me that life is full of obstacles and challenges, but you are capable of anything that you set your mind to achieve. It’s no small lesson indeed and I am grateful to be apart of it.

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Tribute to 4 Heavenly Kings Live in Resorts World Genting

Photographer: Adam Lau

I was born in the 80s and were raised in the 90s. While that era might not be as interesting, superbly fast paced or terribly hi-tech like the era we are living now, it was certainly the most interesting time to grow up in. Back then, it was safe to play outside without strict parental supervisions and not to mention that era also produced a lot of talented artists whose talents are considered legendary by their fans. I could still remember during my growing up years where I had crushes on singers and boy bands and would listen to their songs on radios on walkman over and over again without feeling bored.

One of my addiction during my growing up years were the Four Heavenly Kings; the notable “gifts” from the renaissance of Hong Kong entertainment industry, i.e. the 1980s and 1990s, were the four biggest Chinese male superstars constantly graced their fans with memorable songs and superb unforgettable performances. They were Andy Lau, Jacky Cheung, Aaron Kwok and Leon Lai. Apart from singing and performing on stage, these talented artists are also revered for their appearance on the silver screen to this very day as well.

While Andy Lau, Jacky Cheung, Aaron Kwok and Leon Lai have been taking somewhat a backseat in the entertainment industry these days in favour of a more quiet personal life,Wah D, Ken, Andy Wah and Leon Li — entertainers who have won acclaim for impersonating the four personalities are more than happy to brings us down the memory lane and help fans relive the heydays of the Four Heavenly Kings.

I’ve had the privileged to watch them perform with my family during my most recent visit to Resorts World Genting and thought that these four young men aren’t just the Four Heavenly Kings impersonators. They are talented entertainers in their own rights too. The four have won awards at the MCOMEI 2014 Fashion Festival and other competitions featuring impersonators. Beyond Hong Kong and Macau, the quartet has performed at Harrah’s Reno in the US and currently will be mesmerizing audiences in Resorts World Genting, Malaysia throughout August and September 2016. So, if you are a fan of the Four Heavenly Kings and missed their presence, it would be a good idea to pay them a visit uphill in Resorts World Genting and watch them perform in Tribute to 4 Heavenly Kings performance.

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Tribute to 4 Heavenly Kings in Genting International Showroom

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The Four Heavenly Kings look-alikes —Leon Li as Leon Lai, Ken as Aaron Kwok, Andy Wah as Andy Lau and Wah D as Jacky Cheung— at Resorts World Genting during The Tribute to The Four Heavenly Kings performance. All four were dressed in pilot uniforms exactly like the real Heavenly Kings complete with authentic singing, dance moves and mannerisms. Some songs that were performed were classic songs like Andy Lau’s ‘Yat Hei Zau Go Dek Yat Ji‘, Aaron Kwok’s Dui Ni Ai Bu Wan, Leon Lai’s Jin Ye Ni Hui Bu Hui Lai, and Jacky Cheung’s Er Lang Chuan Shuo.

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Wah D performing. Wah D is a Hakka Chinese pop music pioneer and has won a number of awards for his work in impersonating Jacky Cheung.

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In 2000, he was the champion in the Beijing TV Jacky Cheung impersonating competition, and in 2004, he won a similar competition for Hong Kong’s TVB.

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Ken has also won several awards. In 2008, he was invited by HBS to perform at a Christmas concert and in 2011, he won yet another competition for being the “strongest vocal imitator.”

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He delivered an energetic and sensational performance during Tribute to 4 Heavenly Kings that night and got the fangirls screaming for more.

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Andy Wah on the other hand has performed alongside with Andy Lau, in the superstar’s World Tour concert a number of times.

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Fans can easily imagine him as the real thing; something he has done successfully over the years in various places including Indonesia, Macau, Shenzhen, Fuzhou and Hong Kong.

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Last but not least, Leon Li. He has also won several awards for his impersonating efforts and has since 2007 performed with Wah D, Ken and Andy Wah in various concerts.

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He was Leon Lai’s substitute in the movie, One Night Surprise.

Watching them perform that night really brought us down the memory lane and it felt as if the real Four Kings were performaning that night. It was simply fantastic and if you are looking for something worth watching this mid-autumn festival, this is it.

Tribute To 4 Heavenly Kings will be ongoing from Aug 20 to Sept 9 (except Aug 23 & 30 and Sept 6) at 9pm at Genting International Showroom, Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands, Pahang. Tickets are priced at RM129 and RM99. For more information on Tribute to 4 Heavenly Kings, please call 03-2718 1118 or visit www.rwgenting.com

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Fall in Love Again with Anchor Say Cheese

My husband and I have been together for 14 years. Heading steadily to our 15th years next year in May on his birthday, I’m still very much in love with him, against all odds. He is my first love. I met my boyfriend, now husband for the very first time when I was in college. He was 19 and I was just 17. He was my senior and was quite a rascal in his youth. My first impression on him was not really good. It was definitely not a love at first sight. Rather, it was annoyance at first sight. He was sitting with his friends outside of the hostel compound where I resided with his friends and cooking up a ruckus with their guitars. I was studying and being a bookworm, the act itself irritate me to death. Finding it too intolerable, I went to give him and his friends a piece of my mind. But fate have other plans for us. Fast forward two years later, we got married and became parents.

Being young parents was never easy. It is really tough, especially when you are on your own and still studying at that. We had to juggle between our family life and our studies. I wouldn’t say that our marriage is perfect but we practically grew up with each other. And if I could turn back back time, I would not have it any other way.

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person, over and over again. We may not have much time as we had before during the early years of marriage as we’re both busy with our career, but my husband and I made a point to not stop dating and make time for each other.

Our favourite pastime is traveling, photography shooting and cafe hopping and indulging in good coffees and teas, and of course sweets and desserts.

Speaking of cafe hopping and having sweets and desserts, Fronterra Food Services has recently launched the second phase of its successful Anchor Say Cheese Campaign in Melaka where they aimed to connect loved ones with their sensational dessert. And so, being a hopeless romantic and feeling that we are up to some gastronomic adventure, we decided to check travel south and check it out.

Anchor Say Cheese campaign features an exclusive assortment of Anchor-branded desserts, the first of its kind in the market. Pastry lovers like us can now expect a new range of Anchor Say Cheese Chef’s Signature series desserts, made from the finest Anchor range of products at selected bakeries across the nation.

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Together with its selected bakery partners, Fronterra Foodservices continues to delight foodies with limited edition desserts created by Fronterra’s own in-house patisserie chefs using top quality real butter, cream cheese, milk and cream from popular Anchor range of products aimed not only to indulge pastry lovers but to help foodies connect with their loved ones as well through enjoying dacadent dessert offerings.

Anchor Say Cheese Whips Up Indulgent Sweet Treats at Local Bakeries

Speaking at the launch of Anchor Say Cheese in Yeast Pastry House, Melaka last weekend is Mr. Chua, a representative from Fronterra Foodservices and Mr.Poh, owner and Head Chef of Yeast Pastry House. According to Mr. Chua, each bakery partners will whip up the delectable Anchor branded desserts using the original recipes. Trainings are provided by Fonterra’s patisserie chefs, with a slight tweak to suit the unique preferences of respective bakeries’ customers.

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While the first phase of Anchor Say Cheese campaign introduces delectable Japanese inspired desserts with generous usage of Anchor Cream Cheese as part of the ingredients, the new selection of desserts featured in the second phase of Anchor Say Cheese campaign offers us a more European inspired delicious cakes and bread. Some of the European themed pastries that’s Anchor Say Cheese Chef’s Signature series that can be found in selected bakeries nationwide: Almond Rosa, Cheeznie, First Love and Lady Marmalade.

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Cheeznie, a must have when you can’t decide between a chocolate cake or a cheesecake. The cream cheese is sandwiched between two slices of richly soft chocolate brownie and topped with bits of chopped walnuts. Highly recommemded to go with a cup or coffee or tea.

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Almond Rosa, a rich layer of Anchor cream cheese is layered generously between nutty almond butter sponge cake, making it heavenly to the palate.

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First Love, guaranteed to give you some sugar rush. First Love is one of the chef’s signature bun with cream cheese in the center. Soft and airy, the bun is sprinkled with brown sugar on top. Fairly a classic pastry that is irresitible for those who loves classic bread offerings with a twist.

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Lady Marmalade, something the adventurous would definitely want to sink their teeth on. This bread is infused with orange flavoured cream cheese and topped with candied orange. Sweet and sourish, the bread always warrants for seconds. Highly recommended to be paired with a cup of tea.

My husband and I have tried these delectable desserts and we thought that having them gives us the feeling of the sweetness of falling in love with each other all over again.

These exclusive Anchor’s signature creations are available at selected bakeries throughout the country from now until December 2016. Customers will also receive the limited edition Anchor spoon with every purchase of two boxes of Anchor’s signature desserts. The bread selection is available from RM3.50 onwards while the cake selection is available at RM6.50 onwards per piece. Price varies according to bakeries.

Participating bakeries as listed below, so be sure to check them out.

RT Pastry, Klang Valley
Bread History, Penang
The Baker’s Hut, Seri Manjung
Born&Bread, Ipoh
Patisfrance and Yeast Pastry House, Melaka
Veluxe Cake House, Skudai
Fu Seng Cake House, Muar
Port View Euro Bakery, Kota Kinabalu
Taka Cake House, Kuching
Hot Cross Bun, Miri

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Family Friendly Eco Adventure with Treks in Resorts World Genting: Birdwatching at IBA, Awana Genting

I was first introduced to the joy of birdwatching back in the year 2014, where I was invited by Tourism Malaysia as a member of the media to do coverage for Wings of KKB: Selangor International Bird Race 2014 and I have been providing coverage for the said event since then. Basically it is a birdwatching event that embed the element of amazing race in it. Participants were required to identify various kinds of birds from different altitudes, starting from Kuala Kubu Bharu and ends in Awana Genting.

As a member of the media, my job scope was merely to provide coverage and not experience the whole thing as a participant, and therefore, I never had the opportunity to really enjoy birdwatching, but fortunately for me, during my family’s most recent eco-escapade with Treks Enterprise in Awana Genting, we were brought to IBA in Awana, Genting Highlands to experience some real bird watching session.

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IBA (Important Bird Watching Area). This place is located nearby Awana Longhouse and is a home to various birds, including migratory birds.

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We kicked off our birdwatching session fairly early, under the guidance of a birding expert, Mr. Henry (the guy in the middle).

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Going deep inside IBA for some serious birdwatching.

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Spotted some birdwatchers patiently waiting for some rare migratory bird sightings.

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Serious birdwatching going on here

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We were quite lucky that morning. Unlike the birdwatching session with the participants of Wings of KKB: Selangor International Bird Race 2016 back in April 2016, we spotted quite a number of rare birds this time.

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We not only get to see rare migratory birds but also flying squirrel and lizard as well.

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One of the birds that lives in the virgin forest of Genting Highlands.

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Lovebirds

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Can you see the bird? It’s hanging upside down.

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Another resident bird in the vicinity of Awana Resort.

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Other than birds, we managed to captures pics of other creatures too. And here’s a cute little squirrel.

It is unfortunate that I do not own a pair of binocular. I guess it is time to invest one. It is certainly useful during birdwatching session.

Treks Enterprise is offering all sort of guided walks and eco-related programmes and birdwatching is one of them.

For more information on other programmes offered by Treks, go to Treks’s website and Facebook page or please call 03-27181118 or logon to www.rwgenting.com

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Family Friendly Eco Adventure with Treks in Resorts World Genting: Fashion Forest

Being an Adrenaline junkie who hates staying home, especially on weekends, I enjoy outdoor activities the most. While I hate walking around in the city, the same thing could not be applied to taking a stroll on the beach or jungle trekking.

A couple of weeks back, my family and I went for a leisurely trek in Fashion Forest in Genting Highlands.

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Here’s following our guide, Eddie into the fashion forest.

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The entrance to Fashion Forest is somewhere nearby Awana Longhouse, Resorts World Genting. Fashion Forest is quite a funny name for a forest, don’t you think? Whenever one talk about fashion I will only think of frilly and colourful clothes that models showcase on the runway. But then I was told that it is just a concept where Treks aims to showcase the forest to visitors in a safe and fashionable way.

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Eddie, briefing us about the Fashion Forest.

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Here in Fashion Forest, there are celebrities.

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Or rather, celebritrees. The trees are named after celebrities here in Fashion Forest, and here’s a lovely and sensational one; Mariah Carey.

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And here’s a transformable celebritree, the Optimus Prime Pergola.

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Visitor posing at the Santana Stage.

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A family with a baby chilling under the Mariah Carey Pergola.

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Eddie telling us that sightings of Hornbills are not uncommon here in Fashion Forest and if we are lucky enough, we’d be able to see one.

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Our guide spotted an area where some orangey fruits are grown, and he told us that the fruit is actually one of Hornbills’ favourite.

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And if you can spot this fruit, you are likely to spot a Hornbill around here.

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Hornbills will crack this fruit open and devour the black seed.

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And here’s the seed that Hornbills will feed on.

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One thing interesting about this Fashion Forest is that there’s WiFi available. Yes. You are reading that right. There’s WiFi available. Which means you can go online and have a social media party while you are trekking in the Fashion Forest. Awesome, isn’t it?But the purpose is not just for you to be glued to your gadget nor merely post your selfies and wefies in your social media accounts while you are spending your time in the forest.WiFi is made available for a purpose. An educational purpose. Treks hopes that technology will help create and spread awareness on the forest’s conservation.

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And as part of the educational bits over here in Fashion Forest, the trees are barcoded.

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You can actually scan the barcodes by using apps on your smartphone and information on the plants or trees in question will appear. Interesting way of learning, I must say.

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Apart from learning about trees by scanning on the barcodes, Treks also take the educational fun to a higher notch by providing barcodes with quizzes in it and you can participate the quiz by scanning the barcodes and answer the questions via whatapps and plenty of surprises awaits you if you managed to hunt down all barcodes with quizzes and answers correctly.

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Visitors participating in the barcode quiz game.

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While the questions are pretty simple, spotting the barcodes can be quite tricky at times if you don’t look closely.

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Sometimes the barcodes are camouflaged by leaf and whatnot.

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Visitors are also given a frame and encouraged to find interesting plant subjects and take a photo via the frame and share it on social media.

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Here’s one of mine.

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A mossy subject. I was told that these moss could glow in the dark.

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Someone spotted this flower and it is definitely a sensational star.

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A visitor taking the opportunity to snap a picture of a plant and share it on her social media account.

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Our little trip to the Fashion Forest is definitely fun and educational one, and who says the jungle is all dark and scary and is only for hardcore adventurers? Here’s one that is beautiful and family friendly. Fashion Forest is a must visit, especially family with young kids. It is a great place to nurture kids into loving nature and conserving them for the next generation.

Treks offers plenty of eco-related programs for people from all walks of life and I’m sure there is something for everyone.

For more information on programmes offered by Treks, go to Treks’s website and Facebook page or please call 03-27181118 or logon to www.rwgenting.com

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Family Friendly Eco Adventure with Treks in Resorts World Genting: The English Garden

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The English Garden is a beautiful garden located just right in front of Theme Park Hotel in Resorts World Genting, Genting Highlands.

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I’ve been to Genting Highlands countless times, but as I usually go to Genting Highlands for the live shows or just to simply chill out at my favourite cafe, taking a leisurely stroll in the English Garden has never been on my agenda, but fortunately enough for me, my family and I were brought there by the good people from Treks Enterprise for a visit.

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There’s a small water fountain here and occasionally, you will be able to catch birds taking a sip or two here before flying away.

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Bench for you to sit on, and I reckon it is perfect for dating couples.

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Couple spotted chilling out with each other on the bench.

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Gazebo

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One of the latest eye-catching attraction here in the English Garden is the Nepenthes’ Wall where various kinds of pitcher plants are actually grown in a natural environment, making a beautiful addition to the garden’s population.

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The Nepenthes’ Wall in the English Garden is a part of Treks Enterprise’s effort to educate people about the beautiful plants and conserve the pitcher plants that they found in the jungle.

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Eddie showing us how to differentiate a male and female pitcher plants.

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A closer look at a pair of pitcher plant.

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Unlike the Nepenthes Conservatory in Awana Hotel, the pitcher plants in the English Garden grows in riot over the wall and besides taking pictures here, visitors are also allowed to ‘adopt’ one of the wild pitcher plants grown here and fashion decorate the wall of the English Garden to their liking.

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Adopting a pitcher plant and tying it to the wall.

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I couldn’t draw to save my life, and I could only immortalize them through the camera, but if I’m a painter, I’d sit here for hours and paint them on a canvas, with immense pleasure.

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Some interesting looking pitcher plants that I managed to spot during my visit.

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I don’t know how everyone else felt when they paid the English Garden a visit, but personally, I felt as if The Secret Garden came to live and I was the protagonist, Mary Lennox. For those who is not familiar with this title, The Secret Garden is a classic novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett and it tells the story of a sickly 10 year old Mary Lennox. She’s an unloved 10-year-old girl born in India to selfish, wealthy British parents who kept her out of their way as much as possible. Upon her parents’ death, she was then sent to live with Archibald Craven, an uncle she has never met, at his home called Misselthwaite Manor. Mary then discovered a Secret Garden that used to belonged to her uncle’s late wife and she tended to the garden and made it her sanctuary. As the story progresses, she met her bedridden cousin and they both started to grow things in the garden and started to become happier and healthier. To cut the long story short, the author explores the healing power inherent in living things.In a very literal sense, Mary Lennox “comes alive” as her garden does. The same goes for Colin and Mr Craven. As they tend to something outside their own sorrow, they find joy and new life and looking over the Nepenthes Wall in the English Garden, I felt the same. Being outdoor and close to nature made me feel not only healthier, but liberated and happier too.

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I’m grateful that the good folks from Treks brought me and my family there during our last visit to Genting and moving forward, I’d be sure to make a point to just take a stroll there every now and then and smell the roses. The view in the English Garden is simply breathtaking and I couldn’t get enough of the picturesque view over here and it was indeed a novel experience.

For more information on programmes offered by Treks, go to Treks’s website and Facebook page or please call 03-27181118 or logon to www.rwgenting.com

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Family Friendly Eco Adventure with Treks in Resorts World Genting

Last father’s day, my family and I were invited to spend the weekend exploring the jungle in the vicinity of Awana Resorts, Genting Highlands where 130 million years old untouched rainforest lies. Being a nature lover and an Adrenaline junkie, is an invitation that I could not resist. A weekend away from the concrete jungle? I always say yes to such an invitation in a heartbeat. I never liked to stay at home anyway. At least, not on weekend. It is just so depressing and suffocating.

Dragging my husband and son along with me that fateful weekend, we spent 2D1N exploring a 130 million years old rainforest in Genting Highlands, a place very rich with biodiversity for nature lovers to savor.

Yes, you are reading that right. I mentioned Genting Highlands. The place that is commonly known as a city of entertainment and is well known for its casinos and live performances. This may sound strange to some, but here’s a newsflash for you.

There is more to Genting Highlands than just its hotels, indoor theme parks and casinos. Genting Highlands have much more to offer than just that.

Resorts World Genting is currently working alongside with Treks Nature Enterprise, a company that aims to present nature to visitors in a fashionable way.

Attractions that we experienced during our 2D1N eco escapade was:

Nepenthe’s Conservatory

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Here at the conservatory, we were shown to all sort of Nephentes, or the common name for it, the pitcher plants. Read more about it HERE

The Fashion Forest

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A forest concept where Treks aims to showcase the forest to visitors in a safe and fashionable way. Read more about it HERE.

The English Garden

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A beautiful garden with magnificent views. Read more about it HERE.


A ride on the cable cars in Genting Skyway
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One way to reach the top of Resorts World Genting is via the cable cars in Genting Skyway. Read more about it HERE.

Birdwatching at IBA

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Birdwatching at Awana IBA, where we managed to see some migratory birds. More about it HERE.

Jungle trekking

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One of the activities offered by Treks is jungle trekking. More about it HERE.

Herping

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Herping is a term used for searching for amphibians and reptiles. Definitely not for the faint hearted. And you may read more about our experience HERE.

If there is something I must say about programs offered by Treks’ is that it is not only a family friendly program, but the activities gives opportunities to discover nature in the most fun and up close and personal way. It also helps to stimulate people and help them develop as nature loving individual. If asked if I would go for this again, I definitely would not hesitate to say yes.

The Treks programmes begin in June 2016 and are available from 9am to 10pm.

Pricing for the programs is as below;

Self-Guided Fashion Forest walks:
RM35 per adult (12 years and above); RM30 per child (11 years and below)

Guided nature walks:
RM75 per adult; RM65 per child

Special-interest walks (Birding/Herping/Black Gibbon/Helmeted Hornbill):
RM250 per person

For more information on programmes and prices, go to Treks’s website and Facebook page or please call 03-27181118 or logon to www.rwgenting.com

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