In our weekly series, we bring you the latest in luxury news from around the world. This week’s highlights: Porsche is unleashing power with its new all-electric Macan 4 and Macan Turbo, chef Sayan Isakkson of Nour returns to Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, and more.
Porsche Is Unleashing Power With Its New All-Electric Macan 4 And Macan Turbo
Porsche is launching its second all-electric model with the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo, offering electric drivetrains with up to 470kW (639 PS). The vehicles boast sports car-like performance, rapid charging at up to 270kW, and a WLTP range of up to 613km. Its 100kWh lithium-ion battery, part of the Premium Platform Electric architecture, supports fast charging, enabling a 10 to 80 per cent charge in about 21 minutes. The Macan features a dynamic design, with aerodynamics optimised through Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA). These SUV provides increased luggage space, a ‘frunk’, and a maximum towing capacity of 2,000kg. The interior includes a modern display and operating concept with up to three screens, as well as a 12.6-inch instrument cluster and a 10.9-inch central display. Passengers also get a 10.9-inch screen and a head-up display with augmented reality. Both Macan 4 and Macan Turbo models come with an all-wheel drive, electronic Porsche Traction Management, and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus.
Chef Sayan Isakkson of Nour Returns To Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur
Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur is collaborating with Chef Sayan Isaksson from 26 February to 3 March 2024. Voted as the best chef in Sweden, Chef Isaksson was hosted at the hotel’s Mandarin Grill back in 2018, and is back again to showcase a menu themed ‘Simply Scandinavian’. There will be two lunch menus and two dinner menus to choose from. Lunch menus begin at RM158 for a two-course menu and RM198 for a three-course menu. Meanwhile, dinner menus are priced at RM368 for five courses and RM398 for eight- courses. Wine pairings begin at RM158. For reservations, contact +60323308888 or email mokul-fb@mohg.com.
Upgrade Your Wrist With Van Cleef & Arpels Timekeeping Creations
Van Cleef & Arpels Lady Arpels Heures Florale timepieces provide a whimsical expression of ‘Enchanting Nature’ and a poetic way of indicating time as it’s tracked by the number of blossomed flowers. Crafted as part of the Poetic Complications Collection, this timepiece features a 38mm white gold case and white gold bezel adorned with round diamonds, a white mother-of-pearl dial embellished with sculpted white gold, miniature painting, and marquetry. The self-winding mechanical movement is equipped with a flower-opening module for hours and lateral minutes display. The timetimepiece has a 36-hour power reserve, and is presented as a numbered edition.
Meanwhile, the Pierre Arpels creations are marked by pure lines and interplays of light, while maintaining a discreet elegance since its inception in 1949. The dial is covered in a piqué motif inspired by the maison’s hallmark, highlighting two fine hands sweeping past Roman numerals at three, six, nine and 12 o’clock. This timepiece has a manual-winding mechanical movement, with a 48- to 60-hour power reserve, and is available in two sizes—38mm and 42mm—with a slightly bevelled profile for comfortable wear.
Balenciaga Opens Its Latest Kuala Lumpur Store In The Exchange TRX
Balenciaga recently opened its latest boutique in The Exchange TRX. The 286 sqm store’s design follows the brand’s Raw Architecture concept, which features simulated corrosion and rough edges as well as a respect for existing structural elements and the need to use fewer raw materials. This is evident in, for example, the brushed concrete floors that resemble outdoor sidewalks; exposed ceiling lighting and technical grids; and faux leather benches that appear patinated and worn. To celebrate this store opening, Thai actor and brand ambassador PP Krit Amnuaydechkorn attended the launch event—much to the delight of the throngs of local fans. Balenciaga’s men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, shoes, bags, eyewear, accessories, and jewellery are all available at the store.
Tod’s Showcases Italian Craftsmanship With The Pashmy Project
In its Men Autumn/Winter 2024-2025 collection, Tod’s highlights the quest for exclusive materials that embody Italian quality with their Pashmy project. This project epitomises Tod’s commitment to tradition, with the Pashmy bomber being a focal piece in the collection. This lineup includes the W.G. boot, the Bubble Gommino, sneakers, and multiple versions of the classic Di Bag. The colour palette features warm chestnut and écru tones alongside cool ice and teal shades.
Celebrate Bali’s Annual Day Of Silence With Ayana Bali
From 10 to 12 March, immerse in the magic of Bali’s Day of Silence, Nyepi, with Ayana Bali. The Day of Silence is the island’s most sacred religious festival, marking the start of a new year in the Balinese Saka calendar, which begins at 6am on 11 March. Guests will be able to witness giant ogoh-ogoh statues parading through the streets the night before Nyepi to ward off evil elements and create a balance between humanity, nature and the spiritual realm. The opening of SAKA Museum in late 2023 also plays a central role in Ayana’s Enchanting Nyepi Retreat. As the island settles into silence on 11 March, guests are encouraged to join Ayana’s thoughtfully curated wellness activities. At night, take part in the stargazing event to witness the sky blanketed in the brightest stars of the entire year.
Join Pierchic For A Four-Hands Dinner At Dubai’s Longest Dining Table
Set on the private pier of Jumeirah Al Qasr in Dubai, the award-winning Italian restaurant, Pierchic, will be hosting its first-ever Dinner on The Pier. On 8 March, guests are invited for a magical evening of culinary excellence (priced at AED700/RM912 per person), overlooking romantic views of the glittering Arabian Gulf below. Exclusively limited to 100 guests, two of Jumeirah’s culinary maestros, Chef Beatrice Segoni from Pierchic and her son, Chef Luca Crostelli from the newly opened Cala Vista, will present a four-hands dining experience at the city’s longest dining table. Call 800323232 or make your reservations online.
