Cover story: Brunei’s Princess Azemah Bolkiah on breaking barriers and women in polo

Our January cover star, HRH Princess Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah, daughter of the Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, is a dedicated and accomplished polo player. At 39, she devotes most of her time to developing her skills, emphasising sports science in her training. Despite starting polo during her law degree at the University of Warwick, Azemah excelled through discipline and commitment, breaking gender barriers in the male-dominated sport in Brunei. Under coach Marianela Castagnola, she earned a spot in the Brunei National Polo Team.

We sat down with her to discuss her achievements and determination to promote women’s participation in polo, emphasising the sport’s benefits such as discipline, focus, and leadership skills.

Also in this week’s newsletter:

Do check out our all-new digital city guide for Kuala Lumpur for some of our favourite restaurants, cafés, activities and more.

Happy New Year,
Sim Wie Boon
Digital Editor

 

HOMES

5 homes in Malaysia with exceptional views

A skyline view of Kuala Lumpur from a hilltop bungalow in Bangsar (Photo: Creative Clicks)

In the realm of modern living in Malaysia, a wave of homes embraces architectural ingenuity and design flair. These residences go beyond the ordinary, offering spaces that “breathe” and unfold seamlessly. With clever ventilation and a touch of nature-inspired decor, these homes radiate a sense of tranquillity.

What sets them apart is their integration with panoramic views—be it the dynamic cityscape or sprawling landscapes. In these five Malaysian havens, lifestyle is elevated as each property effortlessly incorporates the surroundings into its blueprint.

Read story.

MORE FROM HOMES

Meet the duo behind Bon Estates remarkable success.

Here’s how you can use your home as a creative canvas with Jotun.

Discover living large at Sfera, a new development by MCL Land that embraces the concept of microliving.

 

LIFESTYLE

Tatler’s guide to staying on track with your New Year’s resolutions

Tatler’s guide to staying on track with your New Year’s resolutions (Photo: Getty Images)

The new year is here and have begun to embark on crafting resolutions, though usually the initial enthusiasm fades quickly. According to Paschal Sheeran and Thomas L Webb’s book Goal Directed Behaviour, over 60 per cent set resolutions, but only 9 per cent persevere throughout the year.

Despite this, the key is not to abandon goal-setting. For 2024, maintaining the momentum requires a strategic game plan. Explore ways to keep your resolutions alive throughout the year, ensuring they transform from fleeting aspirations into tangible realities.

Read story.

MORE FROM LIFESTYLE

Follow Roen and Carey’s journey to discover and indulge at the alluring KLIA Terminal 1’s Arrival Hall.

Tatler Talks: Wan day with horror maestro and Aquaman director James Wan.

Looking for some retail therapy? Here are some of the best malls in Kuala Lumpur to visit for all your shopping needs.

 

POWER & PURPOSE

Front & Female Awards 2024 in Malaysia: Meet the voting committee

Meet the the influential industry leaders helping our search for the individuals driving the progress of women in Malaysia (Photos: Tatler Malaysia)

Launched in 2023, the Tatler Front & Female Awards in Malaysia honour individuals driving women's progress through initiatives launched or expanded in the past 18 months. The awards recognise leaders in workplace equity and activists empowering marginalised women.

A distinguished voting committee featuring influential figures in finance, sports, healthcare, arts, and technology selects deserving recipients. Meet this year’s notable committee members which include Professor Dato’ Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman, a leading expert in HIV/AIDS research, activist Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir, Professor Datin Paduka Dr Teo Soo-Hwang of Cancer Research Malaysia, and Dr Premitha Damodaran, a pioneer in menopause management guidelines.

Read story.

MORE FROM POWER & PURPOSE

The notable newsmakers of Asia’s Most Influential shaped public discourse in 2023.

Olympic ice hockey goalie Kimberly Newell on unexpected paths, gaining perspective and achieving peak performance.

Vietnamese artist Thao Nguyen Phan is reviving the legacies of forgotten female artists and exploring her homeland’s heritage.

 

STYLE

5 niche fragrance brands you need to have on your radar in 2024

Since 1916, Acqua di Parma has cultivated its unique style by creating a collection of iconic perfumes and colognes symbolising the Italian luxury (Photo: Instagram/@acquadiparma)

The art of scent, a profound form of self-expression, delves into our identities, surpassing typical reflections of personality. Unlike other modes of self-expression, fragrance possesses a unique power, stirring emotions and unravelling bittersweet memories that resonate deeply. In recent years, the fragrance landscape has shifted its focus to artisanal niche brands, captivating enthusiasts and connoisseurs.

If you’re looking to take your nose on an aromatic adventure unlike any other, here are some recommended brands for you to check out.

Read story.

MORE FROM STYLE

In conversation with Jean-Marc Loubier, CEO of Delvaux.

In Pictures: A zen evening with Shiseido Professional Sublimic.

Discover how power couple Scha Alyahya and Awal Ashaari travel in style with Tumi.

 

AROUND ASIA

HONG KONG | 10 best Hong Kong songs of 2023 that you’ll be playing throughout 2024 as well.

SINGAPORE | How Singapore’s Harmin Kaur and Michael Lee are revolutionising luxury experiences with Stellaire.

PHILIPPINES | Juana Manahan-Yupangco shares her easy-to-follow plant-based holiday recipes.