Just The Way You Are - Bruno Mars

by Amy

 

Song: Just The Way You Are

Artist: Bruno Mars

Music has the power to comfort people during difficult times. Some songs make us feel understood, especially when we are struggling with self-doubt and insecurity. One song that delivers this message beautifully is Just The Way You Are by Bruno Mars. 

Just The Way You Are may sound like a simple love song, but it hits differently when you’re feeling insecure. There are days when you look at yourself and start overthinking everything. You feel like you’re not pretty enough, or just not “enough” in general. 

It’s something many people experience, even if they do not talk about it openly. Insecurity often makes us focus only on flaws while ignoring our strengths. However, this song does not try to force positivity, Instead, it gently reminds listeners that they do not need to change themselves to be worthy of love and appreciation. That is what makes the song so comforting. 

Sometimes, we do not need someone to fix our problems. We simply need a reminder that we are already enough, just the way we are. 

What I like most about this song is its message. The lyrics are simple, but they carry a powerful meaning. Whenever I listen to it, it reminds me to be kinder to myself and stop focusing on my imperfections. The song encourages self-acceptance and teaches us that everyone has value, even when they cannot see it themselves. 

Just The Way You Are is more than just a romantic song. It is a reminder that we do not need to change ourselves to be appreciated. Its comforting message makes it relatable to anyone who has ever struggled with insecurity. 

Sometimes, the most meaningful reminder is knowing that we are already enough just the way you are. 

Kelantan Diaries

 By Awliya

Our family trip to Kelantan started from my grandmother’s village in Kedah around 8.00 a.m. Since it was just a day before Hari Raya Haji, we decided to take the inland route through Gerik to avoid traffic. The journey was long but very calming, surrounded by green hills, forests, and peaceful natural scenery. I really enjoyed the view because I’ve always loved places with water, trees, and open landscapes.

One of the most beautiful moments during the journey was when we passed by Temenggor Lake. The view from the bridge was breathtaking, with the water reflecting a deep blue-green colour. I quickly took photos because the scenery was too beautiful to ignore. It felt very peaceful and refreshing just looking at it.

After about three hours on the road, we stopped at R&R Titiwangsa for lunch. We brought homemade food such as white rice with anchovies and boiled eggs, as well as fried bihun. We found a seating area and ate together as a family. Even though the food was simple, it tasted very satisfying because we were all hungry and eating together made it even better.

We then continued our journey for another few hours until we finally arrived at our homestay in Kelantan. I was honestly surprised because the place looked even better than in the pictures. The environment was very family-friendly, with a swimming pool, playground, mini football area, and an aesthetic wooden resting hut.

Inside the homestay, there was also a game room with snooker, carrom, chess, and several board games. They even provided a PS4, which made it enjoyable for everyone regardless of age. There was also a projector area that felt like a mini cinema with cushions and seating, perfect for relaxing at night. The rooms were comfortable with air-conditioning, towels, and extra mattresses provided.

After checking everything, we rested for a while due to the long journey. In the evening, my cousin and I went swimming in the pool. We spent time playing in the water together and enjoying the moment. It was simple but became one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

At night, everyone did their own activities. Some of my cousins played PS4, while others watched TV or used their phones. The adults played carrom and laughed together, making the house feel very lively and warm. We also had McDonald’s fried chicken for dinner, which felt extra special when eaten together as a family.

Later that night, I suddenly started craving ZUS Coffee. I ordered a Buttercream Latte through Grab because honestly… no ZUS, no life. I really can’t function without it sometimes. I enjoyed my drink while watching TV, just relaxing after a long day.

The next morning, I woke up early and went swimming again before getting ready for a wedding. I wore a full black abaya with a beaded shawl and Chanel flats, giving a chic and elegant look. After getting ready, we headed to the wedding venue, which was about 20 minutes away from the homestay.

When we arrived at the wedding, we were guided to our table and everything was well organised. We then went to take food, where I chose rice with chicken and beef dishes. There were many delicious options available, and everything looked very appetising. I also took a variety of desserts, especially cakes that looked too good to resist.

After eating, I had some ice cream for dessert, choosing vanilla and chocolate flavours. While the adults were busy chatting with relatives, I took selfies and enjoyed the atmosphere. The wedding felt lively because it brought together many extended family members. We stayed there for about two hours before leaving.

After the wedding, we went to Pasar Siti Khadijah to buy snacks and light food for later at the homestay. We bought fruits, drinks, and other small treats to enjoy together. After spending some time there, we returned to the homestay to rest and relax.

Before going for a swim, I took some time to capture photos near the small aesthetic wooden hut at the homestay using my digital camera. The place matched perfectly with my outfit and gave a soft, elegant vibe in the photos. After that little photo session, I finally went for a swim with my cousin.

In the evening, my cousin and I went swimming again while the rest of the family rested. At night, everyone did their own activities. The aunties and uncles played carrom, some cousins played PS4, and I spent my time watching TV and using my phone. The atmosphere was calm, relaxed, and very comforting.

The next morning, we went for one last swim before checking out. We packed everything and left the homestay before 12.00 p.m. On the way back, we stopped at a rest area and enjoyed the food we had brought earlier. It was a simple but meaningful moment to end the trip.

We continued our journey back to Kedah and arrived at my parents’ village around 8.00 p.m. After a long day of travelling, everyone went home, showered, rested, and slept early. It marked the end of a very memorable family trip filled with laughter, food, and beautiful moments together that I will always remember.

A Café Date with My Cousin

By Awliya

 One of my favourite things to do whenever I’m going back to my hometown is spending time with my cousin. This time, we decided to do something different and visit Sulb Café in Alor Setar together. Since it was our first café date, I was quite excited about the experience. I was looking forward to trying the food, taking pictures and creating new memories together.

Our journey started around 5.00 p.m. from my grandmother’s house. Before heading to the café, we made a quick stop at my mother’s uncle’s house. We spent some time chatting and catching up with him before continuing our journey. After almost an hour there, we finally headed to Alor Setar.

Once we arrived at Sulb Café, we took the lift to the second floor. The moment we stepped inside, we were impressed by the interior design and atmosphere. The café featured tables in various shapes and designs that made the space feel unique and modern. The soft colour palette also created a calm and aesthetic vibe.

Since it was the second day of Hari Raya Haji, the café was quite crowded. We chose a table at the back left corner because it felt more comfortable and slightly quieter. After settling down, we scanned the QR code provided to place our order. The ordering process was simple and convenient.

After looking through the menu for a few minutes, I decided to order a Matcha Latte and Chicken Tenders. My cousin chose a Hot Lemon Tea and Mac & Cheese instead. While waiting for our food, we spent our time taking pictures of each other using my digital camera. It was honestly one of the most enjoyable moments of the day.

About fifteen minutes later, our food finally arrived. We immediately started eating while chatting about random things and enjoying each other’s company. We also exchanged our food so that we could taste each other’s orders. It made the experience even more fun and memorable.

The Chicken Tenders looked very promising when they arrived at the table. The chicken pieces were thick, large and quite generous in portion. Unfortunately, the texture was much softer than I expected and lacked the crispiness that I usually enjoy. For a price of around RM20, I personally felt a little disappointed because I have tasted better chicken tenders at a lower price.

My cousin’s Mac & Cheese came in a very large portion. Even after sharing it between the two of us, we still could not finish everything. The portion was definitely worth the price and suitable for sharing. However, the dish was quite dry and lacked the creamy texture that I usually expect from mac and cheese.

One thing that surprised us was that our drinks arrived much later than the food. By the time they reached our table, we were almost done eating. Unfortunately, the Matcha Latte did not meet my expectations. It tasted mostly like milk and lacked the rich matcha flavour that I was hoping for.

On the other hand, the Hot Lemon Tea was surprisingly delicious. The flavour was refreshing and comforting at the same time. It was not too sweet and had a pleasant balance of lemon flavour. Out of everything we ordered that day, it was probably my favourite item.

After finishing our meal, we asked the staff to pack the food that we could not finish. We then continued taking photos around the café because there were so many aesthetic spots. The lighting and interior design made every corner look beautiful in pictures. We spent almost thirty minutes simply enjoying the atmosphere and taking photos together.

Not long after that, my parents arrived to pick us up. Before leaving, we made sure to take a few final photos outside the café. The building exterior looked elegant and gave off an old-money aesthetic vibe. The large Sulb sign also created a beautiful background for photos.

Overall, I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the café. The place was clean, comfortable and suitable for spending time with friends or family. The music was calm and relaxing, which added to the pleasant environment. It was a nice place to sit back and unwind.

However, I think the service system could be improved. The staff seemed unsure about which table had ordered certain dishes and had to ask multiple customers before serving the food. In my opinion, the ordering process should be more organised. A smoother system would make the dining experience much better.

Overall, Sulb Café may not be my favourite café in terms of food, but it will always be memorable because it was my first café date with my cousin. The calm atmosphere, aesthetic interior and the memories we created together made the visit worthwhile. I would personally rate my overall experience 5/10. Hopefully, this will be the first of many café dates, and we will discover more hidden gems around Alor Setar and Pendang in the future.

A Comfort Meal with My Family

by Amy!

Recently, I went to Mohd Chan with my family for dinner. This restaurant is very special to me because it is a place that I have been visiting with my family since I was a child. Whenever we want to enjoy a nice meal together, Mohd Chan is usually one of our first choice. 

For dinner, we ordered some of our favourite dishes, including Thai lemon chicken, butter prawn, and sizzling tofu. It was actually my first time trying the sizzling tofu, and I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious it was. The tofu was soft, flavourful, and went really well with the sauce. 

The butter prawn was also enjoyable, but the highlight of the meal was definitely the Thai lemon chicken. It has always been my favourite dish whenever I visit Mohd Chan. The lemon flavour was not too sour, and it was perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness. The combination of flavours made the dish very appetising, and I would honestly rate it 10/10!. Even if I ate it everyday, I do not think I would ever get tired of it!

For dessert, I ordered caramel pudding. However, I was a little surprised because it did not really taste like pudding to me. Instead, it had a texture that was more similar to jelly. Unfortunately, it was not really my taste, although I still enjoyed trying something different. 

Overall, I had a wonderful dinner with my family. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was comfortable, and it reminded me of many happy memories from my childhood. If you ever visit Mohd Chan, I highly recommend trying their Thai lemon chicken because it is definitely a dish worth ordering! 🍋🍗😝

Good Food, Good Mood!

by Amy

This is a story that happened to me a year ago! I went to The Exchange TRX with my friend to try a restaurant called A’Rest. I first saw the restaurant on TikTok, and what caught my attention the most was their smoked duck spaghetti. Since it looked delicious online, I asked my friend to go there with me and try it together. 

We went there using public transport, and after arriving at the restaurant, we ordered smoked duck carbonara, fries, houjicha mochi cake, and pink grapefruit green tea. When the food arrived, everything looked really appetising. The first thing I tried was smoked duck carbonara, and honestly, it tasted really good. The smoked duck slices were quite thick, so they were a little difficult to cut, but overall the flavour was delicious and creamy. 

Next, we tried the houjicha mochi cake. At first, the taste felt a bit unusual to me, but after a few bites it actually became very tasty and enjoyable. The texture was soft and unique because of the mochi. As for the pink grapefruit green tea, it tasted sweet and sour at the same time, which made it refreshing and nice to drink together with the food. 

Overall, I would rate the restaurant 8/10 because the food and drinks were satisfying, and the atmosphere was comfortable too. I really enjoyed the smoked duck carbonara the most because the flavour was creamy and satisfying. It was definitely a nice experience, and I would love to visit the restaurant again someday! 

Located in: The Exchange TRX

Address: GS.02.0, Ground Level, The Exchange TRX Exchange, Persiaran TRX, Tun Razak, 55188 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

A Concert Inside a Cinema

 by Amy

Recently, I went to Mid Valley Megamall to watch the Nct Dream Concert Movie at the cinema. Even though Nct Dream already held a real concert, there was also a special cinema screening for fans who wanted to experience the concert together. 

Since the concert movie started at 5 p.m., I planned to leave home around 3 p.m. However, because I took a bit too long to get ready, I only arrived at Mid Valley after 4 p.m. Since I was using public transport, I was worried that I might be late for the movie. I ended up walking really fast to the cinema just to make it on time. 

When I arrived, I scanned my barcode ticket and received a free mini postcard. I was so happy because I got Renjun’s postcard! After entering the hall, I noticed that there were so many fans inside the cinema. Some came with friends, while some came alone just like me, so I did not feel awkward at all. 

Before the movie started, many fans switched on their lightsticks, and the whole cinema slowly turned green. At that moment, it honestly felt like we were attending a real concert instead of sitting in a cinema hall. Everyone was enjoying the performances, cheering quietly, and singing along together. The atmosphere felt very warm, exciting, and emotional at the same time. 

Mark <3

The concert ended around 8 p.m., and after that I started feeling hungry. Since McDonald’s was the closest place nearby, I decided to eat there before going home. 

When I arrived home after showering and resting, I watched all the videos that I recorded during the movie. It made me feel so happy because I could relive those moments again. Even though it was only a cinema screening, it still felt very special to me because I got to see Nct Dream performing together on the big screen. 

At that time, I did not know that it would be the last time I would see Mark performing together with the Dreamies like that, which made the memory feel even more emotional for me now. However, as fans, I believe we should continue supporting our idols so they can grow more and achieve even bigger success in the future. 💚

Sweet Dessert Day at Hot Crush !

by Amy!

Last week. I went to Hot Crush with my friend to try their desserts and pastries. Since we went on a weekday, the queue was not too long and the restaurant was not too crowded, so it felt more comfortable and relaxing. 

We bought quite a lot of food because everything looked so delicious and tempting. The desserts and pastries that we tried were egg tart, pistachio pastry, beef truffle wellington steak, chocolate cream puff, and strawberry tart. We also bought extra egg tarts to bring home for our family because they were really good!!!!

The egg tart was my favourite dessert there. I would rate it 9/10 because the pastry was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The egg flavour was not too strong, which made it taste even better! We actually bought many egg tarts because everyone at home wanted to try them too. 

For the pistachio pastry and chocolate cream puff, both desserts were sweet and creamy, but after a few bites they became a little bit muak for me 😖. I would rate both of them 7/10. 

However, the best menu that day was definitely the beef truffle wellington steak! I would honestly rate it 1000/10 because it was extremely delicious 😫. The beef was thick, juicy, and perfectly balanced with the truffle flavour. Every bite tasted rich and satisfying, and I would highly recommend everyone to try it! 

After eating, we still had some desserts left, so we decided to pack them and bring them home instead of wasting the food. Another interesting thing was that if you spent more than RM100 in one receipt, you could get one free flat croissant! Since our total was RM118.62, we managed to get free croissant too. 

Overall, I really enjoyed my experience there and I think the food was very worth the price. I would definitely come back again every month because the desserts and pastries were so goooooood 😝 if you visit this place, don’t forget to try the beef truffle wellington!!!

Located in: Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

Address: Level 3, LOT C3, 02.00, 3, Jln Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur 

 

Balik Kampung Diaries

 By Awliya

After Subuh, we immediately got ready, showered and packed all our stuff into the car. The morning honestly felt really calm and peaceful the weather was still cold, the roads were not too busy yet and everyone looked sleepy but excited at the same time because we were finally going back to kampung. We started our journey around 8.00 a.m with my family, and of course the roadtrip playlist had to be on because it just makes the whole balik kampung vibe feel even better.

Around 10 a.m, we stopped for breakfast before continuing our journey again. For this trip, I was the one driving all the way until Gurun R&R Northbound. Since we used the WCE highway, most of the views along the road were filled with forests, hills and long highways. The weather was also really nice that day cloudy and slightly gloomy in a comforting way, which made the drive feel more relaxing. Even though we spent hours in the car, it didn’t really feel tiring because everyone was talking randomly, listening to music and occasionally falling asleep for a while. Family roadtrips will always have that comforting feeling no matter how long the journey is.

Once we arrived at Gurun R&R Northbound, we stopped to eat and rest for a while. I had bihun sup keting & daging and honestly it was so good. If you ever come to the northern side of Malaysia especially Penang or Kedah, bihun sup is definitely something you need to try. The soup itself was already flavorful enough that it didn’t even need sambal kicap to make it taste better. While we were there, I also bought ayam gunting and sweet corn to share together. Somehow food at R&R during long roadtrips just hits differently, especially after sitting in the car for hours.

After we finished eating, my father took over the driving until we finally reached our destination. Surprisingly, the traffic yesterday wasn’t that bad. There were some parts where the cars slowed down a little, but everything was still moving smoothly. Compared to the terrible traffic during Hari Raya Aidilfitri recently, this trip felt much more comfortable and less stressful.

We arrived at kampung around 3 p.m. Once we got home, we rested for a while and prayed jamak before getting ready again later in the evening. Honestly, after spending so many hours on the road, finally arriving at kampung gave such a comforting feeling. The atmosphere there felt so peaceful and calming, like my mind could finally rest for a bit.

Later in the evening, we got ready to visit my aunty at the hospital before heading out for dinner together. We left the house around 5.30 p.m and arrived at the hospital around 6.15 p.m. We spent some time talking, checking up on her and catching up for a while. Visiting hours ended at 7 p.m, so after that we immediately headed out for dinner.

We had dinner at an Arabic restaurant called Restoran 3 Adik Beradik. We ordered the lambshack talam set together with iced lemon tea and kunafa cheese. Honestly, I was genuinely shocked by how delicious everything tasted. The rice was full of spices and flavors that really reminded me of authentic Arabic food. The lambshack was super soft and tender, really easy to chew, while the soup tasted rich and comforting like a really good sup tulang.

After finishing our main meal, we finally ate the kunafa cheese and honestly… this was probably the best kunafa I have ever tasted in my life so far. The sweetness level was perfectly balanced and the cheese made it taste creamy without being too overwhelming. Everything about it was honestly perfect. Until today I still can’t stop thinking about it because even the kunafa I had before in Makkah and Madinah still couldn’t beat this one for me personally. Even my mom, who usually doesn’t even like kunafa, kept saying how delicious it was.

After dinner, we went to Aman Central because my parents wanted to look for batik outfits for their upcoming events. Surprisingly, even though the mall was almost closing and we arrived around

 8.45 p.m, the parking area was still completely full and there were still so many people entering the mall. It honestly took us around 15 minutes just to find a parking spot.

Once we finally parked, we quickly headed up to Level 3 to find the batik shop. The moment I entered the store, I was honestly so shocked because the atmosphere felt like walking into a store somewhere in Indonesia. The batik clothes were arranged beautifully everywhere with so many colorful patterns and designs. After trying on a few outfits, my parents finally decided to choose a black batik with soft yellow patterns as their final choice. Once everything was paid for, we immediately headed back home.

Since the journey from Alor Setar to Pendang takes around an hour, we finally arrived home around 10.15 p.m. By the time we got back, everyone was already exhausted. We showered and immediately went to sleep after such a long day. It was definitely tiring, but moments like this will always remind me why balik kampung trips feel so special and comforting.

First Cat My Family Own

by Yasmin!

Her name is Butu Meong. Her mom is called Ibu. In 2020, Ibu gave birth to Butu and her siblings in my uncle's wardrobe, at my grandma's house. So my sister, my grandma and I took care of them for a few months. When Butu was old enough, she migrated to my old house with her sister, Makcik Mitam.

Butu had four siblings, including her, but unfortunately, the other two kittens died due to an unknown cause. She was the only tabby among her siblings, while the others were black cats.

After one year, Butu got pregnant and gave birth to four kittens in August. Her kittens were called Mitem, Oreo, and Nemo. The other one died while in the womb, even though the kitten managed to get out of her mom. Fun facts: I was the one who witnessed all the mess and the one who cut Nemo's womb with my grandma's help so she could be saved.

Mitem is the black one. She got cross-eyed, and she is hyperactive when playing with her siblings and her mom. The second one is Oreo. The white-black one. He is such a velcro cat with my sister and me. Lastly, the tabby, the twin of Butu, is Nemo! She is the wild one. A roof climber of any house. She might already be friends with a bat.

Then, at the end of October 2021, my family moved from the rented house just behind my grandma's, and they came to live with us in a new house. Once we settled in, my dad got four of them neutered because we thought four were enough.

Yet... I liked adopting stray cats, and now, we have more than ten cats and kittens.

During the flood that struck Shah Alam on 19 December 2021, we took them with us in the cage while evacuating to a safer place. They looked so terrified by the sudden movement from their comfort zone.

Moreover, after two years of living with us in the new house, they gradually drifted away from us as more stray cats began coming to my house. Butu, Mitem, and Nemo eventually returned to my grandmother’s house to keep her company because she was living alone. However, we still send their food regularly.

In 2023, Oreo still lived with us as he still had a duty to provide emotional support through the toughest year of mine. At the beginning of 2026, he also moved in with my grandma because the growing number of stray cats at my house started to overwhelm him.

In short, this is them now. They look so relaxed and healthy because all they do now is sleep, eat, and play!

Thanks for reading! #xoxo #min

My Simple Skincare Routine

By Awliya

 Many people think investing in high-end makeup is more important, but for me, investing in skincare is actually far more worth it. No matter how expensive or beautiful the makeup products are, healthy skin will always make makeup look even better. When the skin is smooth, hydrated, and healthy, makeup naturally sits more beautifully on the face and gives a more flawless finish. That is why I believe skincare should always come first before makeup.

I also personally believe that skincare does not always need to involve too many products. Since my skin is naturally quite clear and glowing genetically, I rarely struggle with acne or major skin problems. Because of that, I do not feel the need to overload my skin with too many skincare products or strong treatments. Instead, I prefer focusing on maintaining my skin barrier and keeping my skin healthy, hydrated, and balanced. For me, having a simple routine that truly works for my skin is much more important than using too many unnecessary products.

One skincare product that I truly cannot live without is the CHANEL Hydra Beauty Camellia Water Cream moisturizer. This moisturizer has honestly become one of my holy grail skincare products because it keeps my skin deeply hydrated and comfortable throughout the day. The texture feels lightweight on the skin but still moisturizing enough to make my face feel soft, smooth, and healthy. I also love how it gives my skin a natural glow without making it feel greasy or heavy.

For someone around 20 years old, I think hydration is one of the most important things when it comes to skincare. At this age, I prefer focusing more on prevention and maintaining healthy skin rather than using harsh anti-aging products too early. The camellia ingredients in the moisturizer help my skin feel refreshed and nourished while keeping my skin barrier healthy. It also helps my makeup apply much more smoothly afterward, which is another reason why I love it so much.

For my morning skincare routine, I always start with my cleanser from L’Oréal. I prefer a cleanser that feels gentle on the skin because I do not like products that make my face feel too dry or tight after washing. Since my skin is naturally quite clear and rarely breaks out, I focus more on maintaining my skin barrier rather than using harsh cleansers. The cleanser helps remove dirt and excess oil while still keeping my skin feeling fresh, soft, and comfortable.

After cleansing, I use the CHANEL Hydra Beauty Camellia Water Cream as my daily moisturizer. I enjoy how refreshing it feels in the morning because it instantly makes my skin look healthier and more awake. The glow it gives also looks very natural, almost like naturally healthy skin rather than an overly shiny finish. Since my routine is more focused on maintaining hydration, this moisturizer works perfectly for my skin needs.

After moisturizing, sunscreen is always a must in my routine because protecting the skin is extremely important, especially at a young age. I usually use sunscreen from YSL Beauty or CHANEL depending on what I feel like using that day. Both sunscreens feel lightweight, comfortable, and work very well under makeup. I dislike sunscreens that feel too sticky or heavy, so I prefer formulas that still make my skin feel breathable and smooth.

For me, sunscreen is one of the most important skincare steps because it protects the skin from UV damage, dullness, and early signs of aging. Even if someone has naturally good skin, protecting it daily is still very important to maintain healthy skin in the long term. I think starting sunscreen early in your 20s is one of the best investments for your skin in the future.

At night, I continue using the same CHANEL moisturizer because my skin really loves the hydration it gives before sleeping. Before applying my skincare products at night, I also cleanse my face again using my cleanser from L’Oréal to make sure all makeup, sunscreen, and dirt are properly removed from my skin.

I also use the YSL Beauty Pure Shots serum as part of my night routine.This serum helps my skin look more radiant, refreshed, and less tired after long days. I noticed that my skin feels smoother and healthier whenever I consistently use it. The serum also gives my skin extra hydration while helping my face maintain a healthy glow.

Besides that, I also use the Rhode essence during my night routine. Since my skincare focuses mostly on hydration and maintaining the skin barrier, this essence works really well for me. It adds extra moisture to my skin and helps keep my face soft and comfortable throughout the night. I personally enjoy skincare products that focus on healthy glowing skin instead of overly harsh treatments.

Another product that I love using at night is the eye cream from Laneige. Even though my skin rarely breaks out, I still struggle slightly with dark circles and tired-looking eyes sometimes, especially after lack of sleep or busy days. This eye product helps keep my under-eye area hydrated and smoother. I think starting eye care early is also important because the eye area is very delicate and needs proper hydration too.

Every week, I also use the pink mask from Medicube as part of my weekly skincare routine. I enjoy using face masks because they make my skin feel refreshed and more pampered after busy days. The mask helps boost hydration and leaves my skin looking softer, smoother, and healthier afterward. I think weekly masks are a nice way to give extra care to the skin without overdoing skincare.

Overall, my skincare routine is quite simple because I prefer focusing on maintaining healthy skin rather than using too many products. Since my skin is already naturally clear and glowing genetically, I mainly focus on hydration, skin barrier protection, and keeping my skin healthy long term. I believe that good skincare does not always mean having a complicated routine. Sometimes, using fewer products that truly suit your skin is already enough.

For me, skincare will always be more important than makeup because healthy skin is the foundation of everything. When your skin already looks healthy, smooth, and glowing naturally, makeup automatically looks more beautiful too. That is why I would always choose investing in skincare first before anything else.

Polo Indonesia Diaries

 By Awliya

Polo Indonesia is often known for having a similar preppy aesthetic to classic brands such as Ralph Lauren, especially in terms of logo design and knitwear styles. The overall vibe feels clean, sporty, and timeless. It gives a very effortless everyday look that is easy to style with basic outfits. This kind of aesthetic is also very popular among people who like simple yet put-together fashion.

However, Polo Indonesia is still its own brand and not the same as Ralph Lauren. It is more of an aesthetic inspiration while maintaining its own identity. Although the similarities are quite noticeable, there are still details that make it different when you look closely. It still manages to create its own version of the preppy style in a more affordable way.

First Visit – Jakarta (Terminal 2 Airport)

My first time visiting Polo Indonesia was during my trip to Jakarta at Terminal 2 airport. I decided to check it out because the brand had been going viral, and many Malaysian tourists visiting Indonesia seemed to buy it as a local product. At that time, I was curious to see it for myself since it was trending everywhere on social media. The store was quite easy to find and had a lot of attention from tourists.

I was quite surprised to see a wide range of items available, including their “bear polo” shirts, which strongly resemble the preppy knitwear style. The pricing is significantly cheaper, around two to three times lower than Ralph Lauren. The designs also give a very similar vibe, especially the logo placement and colour choices. It feels like a more casual version of the preppy aesthetic.

For example, a cap from Ralph Lauren costs around RM350, while Polo Indonesia is priced at approximately Rp199,000 (around RM60). The color options and cap designs are also quite similar, especially the ones featuring the horse logo. However, differences become more noticeable when viewed closely. The finishing and detailing are where you can really see the gap between both brands.

I eventually decided to buy a navy blue cap. The logo is slightly larger compared to Ralph Lauren, but overall it still looks neat and wearable for everyday outfits. The store atmosphere was decent and pleasant, although in my opinion, it cannot really compete with the premium boutique experience of Ralph Lauren. The finishing and detailing are where you can really see the gap between both brands.

Second Visit – Surabaya International Airport

My second visit to Polo Indonesia was at Surabaya International Airport. This time, there was a discount, so I purchased a light blue knit cardigan. The discount made it even more tempting to try another item from the brand. The selection at the airport store also felt quite organised and easy to browse

After conversion, the price was around RM150. In comparison, a knit cardigan from Ralph Lauren can cost around RM1,100 or more, making the price difference extremely significant. This made the purchase feel very worth it in terms of affordability. It is a good option for people who want the look without spending too much.

In terms of quality, there is a clear difference as well. Ralph Lauren feels softer, more comfortable, and more premium. Polo Indonesia’s fabric is slightly rougher, but it still has good stretch and is comfortable enough for daily wear. It is still practical for casual use even if it is not as luxurious.

Overall, Polo Indonesia is a very affordable option for those who want a preppy-inspired look without spending too much. However, in terms of quality and luxury feel, Ralph Lauren is still on a much higher level. Both brands serve different purposes depending on budget and preference. It really depends on what you are looking for in terms of style and comfort.

If I travel to Indonesia again, I would consider buying another knit cardigan as part of my basic wardrobe, especially for casual outings or classes, since the price is very reasonable and practical. It is the kind of item that is easy to wear often without worrying too much about cost.

In My YSL Beauty Era

By Awliya

 There’s just something about YSL that makes me completely obsessed with the brand. From the packaging to the quality of the makeup itself, everything feels elegant, chic, and luxurious. The iconic logo, the sleek packaging, and the classy dark feminine aesthetic really make every product feel special. Honestly, even before trying the makeup, I already fell in love with how aesthetic the brand looks.

One of the first products I tried was their matte foundation, and I was genuinely shocked at how good it was. Usually matte foundations can feel heavy or too dry on the skin, but this one feels super lightweight. I don’t even need to apply a lot because it already covers my dark circles and gives really good full coverage. The craziest part is that even though it’s matte, it doesn’t FEEL matte, if that makes sense. My skin still looks smooth, healthy, and natural instead of flat or cakey. Plus, the packaging itself looks so luxurious and aesthetic that it honestly makes me excited to use it every time.

I also tried their cushion foundation and I really love it for everyday makeup. It feels extremely light on the skin and gives more of a natural minimal coverage look. Since my skin doesn’t really have acne or scars, only dark circles, the coverage is already enough for me. But for someone who has acne scars or more texture, maybe they would need to layer it two or three times for fuller coverage. Still, the finish is so pretty and fresh. The packaging also gives such chic dark feminine vibes which makes it look extra classy in my makeup collection.

Another product that surprised me was the primer. I honestly didn’t expect to love it this much. It blurs my pores so nicely and makes my makeup last longer without looking patchy or cakey. My makeup always looks smoother and more flawless after using it, especially around textured areas. It gives that soft filtered makeup look that everyone wants.

But if I had to choose my NUMBER ONE favourite product from YSL, it would definitely be the blush. This blush is literally PERFECT for people with blush blindness like me. Even if I accidentally apply too much, the colour still doesn’t look weird or overly strong. Somehow, the blush blends into the makeup so naturally over time, almost like a real-life beauty filter on the skin. It gives that soft glowy flushed look that I’m obsessed with. Even the packaging is beautiful  similar to the cushion packaging with the logo on top, but smaller.

I also own their lip products, and honestly the lip collection from YSL is just as pretty as the makeup itself. One of my favourites is the YSL Loveshine in shade Nude Lavallière. The packaging gives such soft girly vibes because of the pink and silver combination  it looks super feminine, classy, and elegant at the same time. The formula is also really comfortable on the lips since it contains nourishing oils that keep my lips hydrated and glossy throughout the day. It doesn’t feel dry at all, which is why I always reach for it daily.

Another lip product that I bought is the YSL Loveshine Candy Glow in shade Nude Crush because I’m obsessed with colours like this. It’s actually a tinted lip balm, so the finish looks super glossy, natural, and healthy on the lips. Even without pairing it with a matte lipstick combo, it already looks so pretty on its own. The packaging is fully pink, which makes it look extra aesthetic and gives total coquette vibes. Honestly, it’s one of the prettiest lip products in my collection.

One thing that makes these lip products even more special is that YSL allows you to engrave your name on the lipstick packaging for free. You can even choose symbols to place beside your name, which makes the lipstick feel more personal and luxurious. Small details like this are honestly what make the brand feel so unique and memorable to me.

I also own the YSL Beauty eyeshadow palette, and honestly it became one of my current favourite eyeshadows for soft glam makeup looks. The funniest part is I only got it for around RM35 because I used the points that I collected, which made it feel SO worth it. Getting a luxury makeup product at that price honestly felt like the best deal ever.

The packaging itself gives such a classy and elegant vibe, just like all the other YSL Beauty products. It looks super luxurious in my makeup collection and feels expensive the moment you hold it. The texture of the eyeshadow is really soft and smooth, making it easy to blend on the eyes. I also love the colour combination because the shades are so pretty and wearable for everyday soft glam makeup.

One of my favourite things about the palette is definitely the glitter shades. The glitter makes the eyes look more shiny, glowy, and alive without looking too over the top. It helps the entire makeup look pop more beautifully, especially under lighting or when taking pictures. For someone who loves soft glam makeup like me, this eyeshadow palette is honestly perfect.

And lastly, their compact powder is honestly my lifesaver. It makes my makeup look extremely smooth, almost like I’m using a skin filter in real life because it blurs my skin texture so well. It’s also amazing for touch-ups since it doesn’t get cakey even after layering multiple times. The powder still feels lightweight on the skin, which I really love. I even influenced my mom to buy it, and now she’s completely in love with it too. Until today, she only wants to use YSL compact powder.

For me, YSL is more than just makeup. It’s the whole experience  the luxury feeling, the confidence it gives me, the beautiful packaging, and how amazing the products perform on my skin. Every product feels thoughtfully designed, from the formulas to the aesthetic details. That’s why no matter how many makeup brands I try in the future, YSL will always stay as one of my favourite makeup brands ever.