In our weekly TWIL series, we bring you the latest in luxury news from around the world. This week’s highlights: Porsche’s revamped 911 GT3, Dior’s new Chiffre Rouge novelties, and more.
Porsche Launches The Revamped 911 GT3 At Sepang
Nearly three years after its predecessor was launched, the 992.2 model of Porsche’s high-performance 911 GT3 line was revealed to Malaysian audiences with a launch event at the Sepang International Circuit. The new model upgrades the 992.1’s 4.0-litre engine with shorter gear ratios and hotter cams, resulting in an engine that produces the same 503bhp, but now in line with European emissions laws. Also revealed was the 911 GT3 Touring Package, which gives the option for additional rear seats. The launch event was attended by brand ambassador Jörg Bergmeister, who had put the 992.2 to the test at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, setting a new lap record for a manual transmission at 6 minutes and 56.294 seconds.
Dior Launches Three New Chiffre Rouge Novelties
The limited-edition watches celebrate Monsieur Dior’s favourite grey, which he viewed as the ultimate symbol of elegance. These couture-inspired objects of desire are presented in three ultra-contemporary variations. The first is a monochromatic timepiece punctuated by signature scarlet details in a 38mm case and a pared-down design. It is equipped with a high-precision automatic mechanism, with its rotor adorned with the Dior logo, along with emblematic graphics. This model is also crafted in a 41mm chronograph version—an exceptional timepiece containing a movement able to measure up to a 10th of a second. As a final surprise, the collection is further enriched by a third version, limited to only 20 pieces. Paved with diamonds, this timepiece combines a rose gold bezel with a white gold dial, distinguished by a subtle Cannage motif. Testifying to the meticulousness of the artisans, the coloured gemstones on the hour markers add a distinctive touch, while a grey alligator strap completes the captivating creation, allying expertise and sophistication.
Aman Singapore To Open In The Nation’s Upcoming Tallest Skyscraper
Aman has announced an exciting expansion to Singapore, by introducing a new urban sanctuary to the country’s light-speckled skyline. Aman Singapore will be nestled within The Skywaters—the city’s upcoming 305m high skyscraper, which is set to be the city’s tallest when it is completed in 2028. The property will also include the invite-only global Aman Club and the Aman Residences, which promise the brand’s internationally renowned exclusivity, congenial design, and personalised service. With the extensive Aman Spa and its signature dining concepts, the luxury hotel guarantees a haven of peace amidst the busy urban lifestyle of the concrete jungle. The new property will sit alongside 36 resorts in more than 20 stellar destinations, including Miami Beach, Dubai, and the Maldives, as part of the brand’s growing hotel empire. With construction underway, residential enquiries for Aman Residences, Singapore are now open at [email protected].
The RC Bar At Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur Showcases Brookie’s Gin
The RC Bar at Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur invites guests to explore and indulge in cocktails featuring Australia’s Brookie’s Gin with a one-for-one offer on all Brookie’s Gin cocktails. Hailing from the rainforest of Byron Bay, Brookie’s Gin is crafted with native botanicals such as finger lime and aniseed myrtle, capturing the wild essence of nature and bringing a fresh, vibrant twist to every cocktail. Created by a family-run distillery passionate about preserving the rainforest, every pour of Brookie’s Gin is an invitation to spirited conversations and a delightful, curious escape.
For enquiries or reservations, WhatsApp or call +60 18 623 0036, or email [email protected].
Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur Relaunches Its Signature Bar
Named Le Comptoir, the 41st-floor lounge at Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur was unveiled with a launch event built on citrus to the background of Kuala Lumpur’s breathtaking skyline at sunset. To mark this new chapter, Le Comptoir introduces a signature line-up of cocktails inspired by nature, light, and the philosophy of connection—each one crafted as a stage in the evening’s journey. As the sun dipped below the skyscrapers of KL, the journey was opened with Tropic Kaze, a mocktail featuring pink grapefruit and lychee. This was then followed by Shibumi Citrus, a cocktail that pairs Roku Gin with calamansi reduction and bitters for a bright and quietly sophisticated concoction. As the sky dimmed for the stars, the evening continued with Nami Cloud, featuring whiskey and yuzu cordial crowned with a silky egg white foam; and Sabi Rouge, showcasing Kaffir lime gin, pandan Campari, and vermouth that evoked the richness of nightfall.
For reservations at Le Comptoir, please dial +603 2268 3888 or email [email protected].
Enjoy Hairy Crab In More Than One Way At Shanghai Restaurant
The Michelin-selected Shanghai restaurant presents a new autumn menu in celebration of the hairy crab season. Traditionally, these prized delicacies are steamed with rice vinegar and Shaoxing wine to savour the purity of its flavour. At Shanghai Restaurant, Executive Chinese Chef Wong Wing Yeuk showcases a range of preparations, from the classic Steamed Shanghainese Hairy Crab to innovative dishes such as the Steamed Shanghainese Meat Dumplings with Hairy Crab Roe and Braised Hairy Crab Roe Soup with Shredded Fish. This limited-time menu is only available from now to 30 November 2025.
For reservations, send a WhatsApp message to +6018 623 0069.
The Singapore Writers Festival Returns For Its 28th Edition
Held from 7 to 16 November 2025, this year’s festival is themed ‘Shape of Things to Come’, in celebration of Singapore’s 60th year of independence, and invites audiences to dream, question and reimagine the world through the transformative power of literature. With more than 200 programmes and more than 300 local and international presenters, the festival offers the chance for attendees to hear from international literary heavyweights, including the No.1 New York Times bestselling author of The Poppy War trilogy, R. F. Kuang, Costa Book Award candidate, Sathnam Sanghera, and Eisner-Award-winning cartoonist and animator Faith Erin Hicks. Festivalgoers will also be treated to an invigorated programme with fresh festival tracks exclusive to this year’s edition, such as Sci-fi Spotlight and SG60 Homage, alongside a reimagined SWF Classroom, a new The Salon series, and signature programmes such as Youth Fringe, SWF Playground, SEA xChange, Festival Highlights, Book Launches, and SWF In Conjunction.
Wei-Ling Gallery Presents ‘Trilogy: The Lightseeker’
The exhibition at Wei-Ling Gallery is set to run until 1 November 2025 and features Iwadh Mahadi, a 26-year-old artist shortlisted from the WLG Incubator programme. Raised in rural Sabah, Iwadh’s work often reflects the relationship between humanity, nature, and the fragile balance between chaos and order, using the bamboo motif to bridge existential thought and Islamic principles. ‘Trilogy: The Lightseeker’ features three bodies of work that are bound by a single pursuit: the search for righteousness. Rooted in faith, vulnerability, and resilience, the trilogy draws from everyday materials and the symbolic weight of ritual to create spaces for reflection. Rather than a collection of separate works, it is a pilgrimage through questions, scars, and prayers that map the human struggle toward light. The exhibition is available by appointment only.
For appointments and additional information, call +603 2260 1106 or email [email protected].
HLB Private Bank Launches A New Campaign And Branding Initiative
With a new visual identity and a modern logo, HLB Private Bank recently unveiled a new branding campaign to cater to high net-worth (HNW) individuals as well as the ultra high net-worth (UHNW) segment. As part of this new rollout, dedicated Private Banking offices in Malaysia and Singapore now include new design aesthetics; HLB Private Bank’s products and services offerings have been refreshed; and Client Advisors have also been rigorously trained to better manage HNW and UHNW customers. In addition, HLB Private Bank’s partnership with Lombard Odier, Switzerland’s oldest private bank, allows for even more robust capabilities in portfolio management, legacy planning, and inter-generational wealth transfer.
