03/09/2024

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TUESDAY | SEP 3, 2024

ON YOUTUBE

Malaysian Paper

/theSunMedia /

M’sian adventurer clocks 100,000km in Brazil

Glowing prospects for local cosmetics

KUALA LUMPUR: Homegrown cosmetic products are gaining popularity among Malaysians, thanks to research and development (R&D) efforts that have enhanced the quality of make-up produced locally. In the past, imported cosmetics were often the preferred choice. However, alongside an increase in public knowledge and R&D advancements in recent years, local cosmetics have evolved to be on par with international brands, offering consumers the option to use local products while contributing to the growth of the industry. Make-up artist Intan Nadia Syazwani Mohamed Nordin believes many local cosmetic brands have the potential to go far if manufacturers consistently maintain the quality of their products. “Our cosmetic companies not only make high-quality products but also offer a lot of variety. Initially, there was strong focus on lipsticks but now, even non basic make-up products are available from local brands and are of high quality.” She said just like international brands, some local products are of good quality while others may not meet expectations. “It really depends on whether a product is suitable or compatible with the user,” she said in an interview recently. She added that exposure and promotion on social media, especially TikTok, have also contributed to the rising popularity of local cosmetic brands, more so when they are endorsed by beauty influencers. Intan Nadia, who has been a make-up artist for celebrities such as Fasha Sandha, Ayda Jebat and Amyra Rosli, said boycotts of pro-Israel brands have further strengthened

support for local products. “When a situation like this arises, we can see that Malaysians have alternatives. They can purchase quality local brands without sacrificing their desire to look beautiful,” said Intan Nadia, who also has her own matte lipstick brand. Meanwhile, skincare product founder Adibah Mazlan urged Malaysians to support local brands, saying their affordably priced products enable consumers to make skincare a routine without straining their finances. “Skincare products should not be expensive. If they are reasonably priced, people with skin issues would be able to buy and use the products regularly,” said Adibah, whose The Raw brand of skincare products are priced between RM22 and RM77. Acknowledging the challenge of overcoming the stigma associated with local cosmetics, often perceived as harmful to skin, the former pharmacist said she uses her knowledge to formulate ingredients for her products that are tailored to address specific skin problems. She also aims to raise awareness about embracing realistic beauty standards and taking pride in one’s unique features. “Women need not be bound by trends that promote ‘glass skin’ or flawless complexion,” she said, adding that what truly matters is having healthy skin. “Features like freckles and moles are something to be proud of and should be highlighted. “The same goes for skin colour. Women need to break free from the mentality that being fair is the only way to be beautiful. Every skin tone has its own beauty.” – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian biker Katiravan Subrayan, who is on an extraordinary quest to ride his motorcycle around the globe, has reached a significant milestone, clocking 100,000km while in Brazil on his journey through Latin America. It was also in Brazil that he planted his 100th tree in the Malaysian embassy compound, in his quest to raise environmental awareness and promote Malaysia to the people he meets along the way. He has successfully planted approximately 108 trees, with the latest addition in Bolivia, marking the 47th country he has visited on his expedition. Katiravan, 63, embarked on the journey in early January last year on his BMW R 1200cc GSA motorcycle, affectionately named “Parameswara”. On July 9, Katiravan reached the city of Fortaleza, the capital of the state of Ceara in Brazil, where he hit the 100,000km mark. Continuing his journey, he rode Parameswara 2,000km south to Brazil’s federal district of Brasilia, arriving on July 21, Bernama reported. He visited the Malaysian embassy, where he was greeted by the first secretary/head of chancery Muhamad Muhaimin Azmi, third secretary Anwar Umar Ruszaman, and the personal assistant and office secretary to the ambassador Fariq Hariz Mohd Baharuzaizi. Anwar’s wife Siti Nurbahiyah Azmi o Solo biker also marks 47th country visited since starting expedition in January last year

Katiravan (centre) with friends at the Uyuni Salt Flat in Bolivia. – PIC COURTESY OF KATIRAVAN SUBRAYAN VIA BERNAMA

prepared a home-cooked lunch featuring traditional Malaysian dishes such as Asam Pedas, Sambal Belacan and salted fish, providing Katiravan with a comforting taste of home. The following day, he was in Rio De Janeiro, where a pair of fellow bikers took him to see the mesmerising landmark, Christ the Reedemer, that is one of the tallest statues in the world. Looking over the city of Rio, Christ the Redeemer was built to celebrate Brazilian faith and tradition. On Aug 12, after 64 days in Brazil, Katiravan headed to his next destination of Paraguay and arrived in Ciudad del Este. From there, he had a smooth journey on Aug 15 to the capital of Paraguay, Asuncion, travelling on well-maintained roads with minimal traffic. In Asuncion, he met a local contractor who shared his passion for biking and Katiravan was invited to join a biker group for a charity event the next day, at which they distributed food and gifts to children. The event was attended by about 50 bikers. On Aug 22, Katiravan reached Villamontes in Bolivia, marking the 47th country in his adventure.

It was a lonely and cold ride for Katiravan as the 120km stretch from the border to Villamontes was desolate, with no houses, restaurants or petrol stations along the way. As he rode southwards, the weather became colder. To conserve fuel, Katiravan travelled at a cautious speed of 85kph to 90kph, knowing that getting petrol could be a challenge for foreign vehicles in Bolivia, as subsidised fuel is strictly restricted to locals. While in Uyuni in the southwest of Bolivia, he took a jeep ride to several places of interest, including the Uyuni Salt Flat and the train cemetery. Despite the potential challenges, the 63-year-old remained unfazed, continuing his journey with determination and a spirit of adventure. Along the way, he met kind and friendly people who were ever ready to accommodate him in every way possible. While on his journey on the other side of the planet, Katiravan did not forget about the Merdeka celebrations back home. Although he was 18,000km away, Katiravan extended greetings in English, Tamil and Malay to fellow Malaysians in an online video.

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