NOBO MAKES SOY MILK TRENDY AGAIN

 

Food meets fashion in a launch to mark the arrival of NOBO soy milk in Malaysia, bringing with it a fresh take on one of Asia’s most familiar staples.

Created by the team behind OATSIDE, NOBO sets out to rethink soy milk for a new generation who cares as much about clean labels as it does about taste and texture.

Founder Benedict Lim shared the thinking behind the product: a meticulous search led them to non-GMO, high-protein soybeans sourced from Canada, chosen for both flavour and nutritional quality.

By packing more soybeans into each serving through their double extraction method, NOBO achieves a creamier consistency and higher protein content without relying on gums, emulsifiers, oils or protein powders. The result is a pared back formulation leaning into the soy’s natural richness.

Each pack delivers 4.2g of protein per 100ml — roughly double that of conventional packaged soy milk, and about 40% more than dairy milk— while keeping sugar levels below 5g per 100ml. A flash-cooling technique also helps dial down the often polarising “beany” aftertaste, giving the drink a cleaner, more approachable profile.

Soybeans have long been a cornerstone of Asian diets, prized for their complete amino acid profile, fibre and healthy fats. NOBO’s approach feels like a modern reset; retaining the nutritional integrity of soy while refining its flavour for contemporary palates.

NOBO stands out with a smooth, lightly roasted note and a natural soy creaminess compared to its shelf-stable counterparts. For those looking for a twist, the NOBO Almond Soy blends the same base with finely ground dark-roasted almonds, adding a subtle nuttiness without overpowering the drink.

True to its minimalist ethos, NOBO teamed up with Vietnam-based label CHAUTFIFTH to create a playful, soy bean-shaped handbag — a functional statement piece available in limited quantities online.

Closer to home, NOBO also partners with heritage name Fung Wong Biscuits and contemporary bakehouse Floccus Floccus to reimagine local pastries through a soy-forward lens. 

The limited-edition creations will be available until 12 April, offering a taste of how NOBO soy milk can elevate everyday flavours. Some of the outstanding creations include Gem Bites, Mochi, Thousand Layers and Soy Silk Curd.

NOBO soy milk will roll out across major retailers and e-commerce platforms nationwide, in both 180ml and 1L packs, heralding the start of a new chapter for plant-based drinks in the region.

For more information, visit https://noboworld.com/ or follow @nobomilk on IG.

 

SMART 'A-LAC' TIPS TO BOOST ENERGY AND IMMUNITY

Too much of a good thing can be bad. In Malaysia, the endless rounds of festivities inevitably will take a toll on us. Upon returning to our daily routine, the feeling of lingering tiredness, omnipresent bloating and being on edge prevails even though life is supposed to be celebratory.
 

RESTORE YOUR ENERGY

To support energy levels and help the body cope with fatigue, Cynthia Jetan, Consultant Nutritionist at LAC Malaysia suggests simple habits to help stabilise energy: consistent mealtimes, adequate protein intake, and slow-release carbohydrates like oats, brown rice, sweet potatoes, and legumes.
 
“Complement those practices with LAC Activated Zhi Energy; its Lingzhi and Cordyceps formulation helps to boost vitality and energy as well as coping with stress.
 
Cynthia added “Persistent energy dip occurs because the body’s energy pathways are under strain. LAC Activated Zhi Energy supports those pathways by restoring focus without overstimulation.”
 

DETOX YOUR LIVER

All those heavy festive meals, late nights, and alcohol intake undoubtedly will strain the liver, causing fat build-up hence affecting digestion and energy levels.

When the liver is under pressure, the body is slower to process nutrients, thus you’d feel lethargic and ‘heavy’. To counter that, try LAC Activated L.Pro, a TCM blend formulated to support liver health and function.

LAC Activated L.Pro helps to improve fatty liver conditions and support the liver function in processing nutrients and metabolic by-products more efficiently. This in turn generates better energy and overall wellness.

GOOD GUT FEELS

Gut health also deserves your attention. Remember to consume Probiotics daily to support digestive balance. LAC Probiotic Complex features different CFU strengths (up to 100 billion CFUs), in capsule, jelly and powder forms enabling individuals to choose the desired level of support.

Simple steps like drinking enough water, eating fibre-rich foods, and allowing ample time between richer meals instead of grazing continuously throughout the day are good habits to maintain.

LEVEL UP ON ANTIOXIDANTS

You can also build antioxidant habits through food by eating more colourful fruits and vegetables, in addition to everyday staples like turmeric, ginger, and tea.
 
“Supporting antioxidant defences helps the body cope during socially demanding periods,” Cynthia explained. “Level up your body’s natural defences during high-demand periods with LAC Masquelier’s^® French Pine Bark Extract.  Rich in oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), the supplement is known to be up to 20 times more powerful than Vitamin C in antioxidant capacity.

“LAC Masquelier’s^® French Pine Bark Extract supports the body’s antioxidant defences against free radicals generated during prolonged stressful times which can contribute to cellular strain.”

While it’s tempting to detox, cleanse, or drastically restrict food after weeks of indulgence or disrupted routines, be mindful aggressive changes can stress bodily systems already under pressure. LAC Vegishield would be a practical and convenient way to boost your green intake as it is extracted from broccoli sprouts, kale, brussels sprouts and broccoli. Just mix a sachet into your favourite smoothie.

Cynthia said it’s better to rely on steady, gradual and realistic habits to help you recover. “Be resilient in supporting the body through seasonal changes. Wellness isn’t about hitting a reset button. It’s about staying steady through the rhythm you’re already living in.”

MILLENNIA VILLAGE REDEFINES SENIOR LIVING

Inspired by the emblematic "Hakka Tulou" (客家土楼), the central communal space to foster camaraderie and strengthen ties within traditional Hakka communities, Millennia Village is reputedly the first purpose-built senior living resort in Malaysia.

Nestled on a 32-acre lush enclave in Seremban, Millennia Village aims to redefine the lifestyle of seniors as "the start of more enriching and purposeful golden years”.

Surrounded by prolific greenery and native trees, the main building’s "Hakka Tulou" inspired design envisaged a collective community where residents converge, connect, communicate, and share life experiences.

According to John Chia, Founder of Millennia Village, "We believe seniors deserve more than just a place to stay. They should be in a community catering to their unique needs. We believe the golden years can be just as exciting and rewarding.”

Executive Director of Millennia Village, Diane Chia (right) adds, “Millennia Village is inspired by the principles of Blue Zones, focusing on healthy habits, togetherness and happiness. Those factors contribute to seniors’ longevity and well-being. We aim to enhance the quality of senior lifestyle by providing a safe, comfortable, and socially engaging environment. The tranquility of our location means pristine air quality, minimal traffic and noise along with an unparalleled level of privacy and security.”

We were assigned a 481 sqft Studio Suite room. Clad in white and neutral earth tones with clean, minimalist approach, the glass doors lead outside to a balcony with soothing views of the granite rock wall covered with trees and shrubbery.

Bathroom handrails, a panic button and a wall-mounted fold-up stool are found in the shower and toilet. The door is wide enough for wheelchair access although it would be nice to have a more accessible shelf for toiletries, bath sponge and spectacles.

The current recess space beside the shower cubicle seemed odd and not user-friendly. Also, the empty space in-between means water splashing out of the shower area is inevitable even though the curtain is fully drawn.

Our room layout is nice and practical featuring a long kitchen counter equipped with an induction stove top, microwave oven, electric kettle and sink. Furnishings include a couch with a coffee table, a dining table, a floor-to-ceiling closet and wooden sideboard.

Electrical appliances provided are a fridge, an induction cooker with hood, an electric kettle and a microwave oven. There’s aslo a flatscreen TV and a working desk. Fans, an air-conditioning unit and Wi-Fi access are par for the course.

Currently, breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at Saffron all-day dining restaurant. There’s plenty of natural daylight within the space. A private room is also available for group dining.

One floor above is Kopitiam which will be serving simple, local fare and snack items. Plans are afoot for a grab & go bakery cum convenience store of sorts.

Located at the 9th Floor of Block B, The Rooftop is ideal for lounging around with friends for drinks and conversation. The balcony seating accords panoramic vista of the nearby surroundings.

We love the saltwater infinity swimming pool where aquarobics classes can be held. Nearby is a walking trail with various fitness equipment for those who desire working out in the open.

More walking paths with a 2-acre nursery for eco-farming and zero waste practices e.g. growing organic produce and composting food waste are also available. Avid gardeners will like pottering around the raised garden beds and elevated planters. Built using permaculture principles, the fertile farm garden aims to provide edible herbs and vegetables for a farm-to-table experience.

Serene strolls along trails purpose-built by the Orang Asli wends through a regenerated forest covering 8 acres of prime land amidst the stunning vistas of a majestic rugged granite rock face.

Planned group fitness activities: tai chi, line dancing, senior yoga, physiotherapy, and stretching exercises to arts and craft and even a community kitchen should keep senior residents occupied and fulfilled. A gym, a multi-purpose studio, an airy and spacious library, a games room, a theatre and event space accommodating up to 200 persons are found onsite.

The first phase of 344 units features one- and two-bedroom units tailored for independent senior living whilst the second phase will comprise 75 units for seniors requiring assisted care. Phase three will offer larger units for independent senior living.

Millennia Village offers medium and long-term tenancies of 1 month to 3 years, with pricing depending on the stay duration. For a limited time only, Millennia Village is offering a long stay promotion at RM5,500 per month for two persons.

A trial stay of 3D/2N is also available from RM1,200 for two persons. All room packages include a fully furnished unit, housekeeping, Wi-Fi, free access to all facilities, daily breakfast and dinner. The offers are valid until 31 August 2024 and are subject to prevailing taxes.

For more information about Millennia Village, please call 06-7609677, email: dianechia@milenniavillage.com or visit www.millenniavillage.com.