For decades, going to the movies meant popcorn in a paper bag, stiff seats, and likely a sticky floor or two. Especially for expats having grown up in Western countries, movie nights were a pretty straightforward affair. Show up early, stand in line (especially for popular new releases) in hopes of getting the best seat possible, get your popcorn or Milk Duds, and enjoy the movie while sitting in a very standard-issue cinema.

But not only is movie-going different in Malaysia in general (like getting to preselect your seats and having a wide range of hot and tasty munchables to choose from), Aurum Theatre at The Exchange TRX has torn up that old script entirely. This plush, purpose-built cinema offers more than just a screening – it’s an experience. And for film lovers who appreciate sharp storytelling and a soft recliner, it might just be the gold standard.

Let’s start with the basics. Located on the Park Level of The Exchange TRX (which we love because we can get there with ease on the MRT), this newest gem in GSC’s upscale Aurum portfolio comes fitted with two immersive formats: IMAX with Laser and ScreenX. Each one is tailored to pull you into the film in a different, dazzling way.

In the IMAX hall, expect sharp, high-resolution images delivered across a massive curved screen – one that stretches almost to the edge of your peripheral vision. Add to that a powerful 12-channel sound system and you’re in for a heart-thumping, eye-popping experience that brings explosive blockbusters to vivid life.

Prefer a more panoramic punch? The ScreenX hall takes immersion a step further with a unique 270-degree view. By projecting additional scenes onto the side walls, ScreenX wraps viewers in an extended canvas of action, making high-octane chases and sweeping landscapes feel even more real. This setup is especially appealing for action and adventure films, where every corner of the frame matters.

Of course, all that sensory engagement deserves a little indulgence – and this is where Aurum really shines. Each hall features fully reclinable seats, perfect for kicking back in comfort. With only a couple hundred seats per hall, you won’t be jostling elbows with strangers, either. Each ticket also includes a complimentary snack and beverage set, with the menu updated quarterly to keep things fresh. Whether you go for a savoury bite, a sweet treat, or the classic popcorn combo, it’s all served up with flair.

Even the pricing is surprisingly palatable for such a luxe setup: RM70 for IMAX and RM50 (or RM40 for 2D) for ScreenX. That includes your food and drink, a buttery-soft chair, and a viewing experience that puts most home cinemas to shame.

Bottom line? If you love movies – truly love them – Aurum Theatre at TRX is well worth the upgrade. It’s more than a cinema. It’s a celebration of film, designed by people who clearly care about the craft. Whether you’re catching the latest blockbuster or revisiting a familiar favourite, this is how movies were meant to be seen.

Aurum Theatre, The Exchange TRX
L3.03.0, 3rd Floor, Park Level, The Exchange TRX, Persiaran TRX, 55188 Kuala Lumpur

Book your cinematic experience at gsc.com.my or via the GSC app.

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Once the domain of solo travelers, the digital nomad lifestyle is now drawing entire families. Indeed, the concept of the digital nomad has evolved beyond the image of a lone traveler with a laptop. Recent research by AXA – Global Healthcare reveals a growing trend: families embracing the digital nomad lifestyle together. In fact, a survey of 1,001 UK workers found that over a third (34%) would consider working remotely abroad and bringing their families along.

This shift is driven by the pursuit of a better quality of life, with over three-quarters (76%) of respondents with children believing that working abroad would enhance their family’s well-being. Financial benefits also play a role, as more than half (56%) of these parents feel that remote work overseas could offer greater financial freedom. Additionally, a third (33%) see it as an opportunity to strengthen family bonds through shared experiences.

Sebastian Judez, Global Head of Product and Proposition at AXA – Global Healthcare, notes: “An increasing number of parents are leveraging flexible work policies or freelance careers to work remotely abroad with their children. This lifestyle offers exposure to new cultures, languages, and fosters resilience and adaptability.”

However, transitioning to a digital nomad family lifestyle comes with challenges. Access to education is a priority, with over two-fifths (41%) of parents emphasizing its importance. Childcare is another concern, highlighted by over a quarter (26%) of respondents. Healthcare access is crucial, as a third (35%) of families prioritize quality medical services. Nearly three in five (59%) consider comprehensive medical insurance essential, and under a third (29%) value medical evacuation and repatriation services.

Xavier Lestrade, CEO of AXA – Global Healthcare, shares from personal experience: “Having relocated internationally with my family, I understand the concerns about disrupting children’s routines and education. While moving abroad can be daunting, proper preparation can help families embrace the benefits of the digital nomad lifestyle.”

For those considering this lifestyle, AXA – Global Healthcare’s Digital Nomad Index highlights the top countries for families to relocate, evaluating factors like cost of living, reliable Wi-Fi, safety, visa requirements, healthcare, education, and childcare access. Here are the top 10 destination countries, according to the research. Rather surprisingly, Malaysia did not make the cut. Read on to learn more about the methodology for determining the ranking.

METHODOLOGY

About the data      

The research was carried out online by Research Without Barriers – RWB. All surveys were conducted between 12th November 2024 and 19th November 2024. The sample comprised 1,001 UK workers who could work online remotely for an extended period. All research conducted adheres to the UK Market Research Society (MRS) code of conduct (2023). RWB is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office and complies with the DPA (2018). 

Categories and Sources 

To determine the top 10 countries for digital nomad families, each country from the research was ranked by the following criteria: 

• Cost of living  
• Access to reliable wi-fi   
• Safety  
• Visa requirements  
• Access to healthcare  
• Access to education for children  
• Access to childcare   

Desk research has been carried out to gather information for each country based on the criteria. Each country has then been scored out of five for each criterion.  An example scale is outlined below:  

• 1 = Very Poor  
• 2 = Poor   
• 3 = Average   
• 4 = Good  
• 5 = Excellent  

For example:  Cost of living 

• 1 = Very high cost of living  
• 2 = High cost of living  
• 3 = Moderate cost of living  
• 4 = Low cost of living  
• 5 = Very low cost of living  

Each country has been given a score for each criterion and then a total score has been calculated. This has then been ranked from highest to lowest to provide the top 10 countries.   

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You may not think that the worlds of haute horology and haute parfumerie would share any notable synergy, yet the very nature of each of these pursuits is a binding factor, uniting meticulous craftsmanship, an eye for detail, and the pursuit of storytelling through their creations.

This connection has been artfully explored in Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Made of Makers programme, with the maison collaborating with French perfumer Nicolas Bonneville to highlight the harmony between these two meticulous crafts. The watchmaker’s Kuala Lumpur outlet recently played host to a fascinating olfactory masterclass to explore the surprising connections between these two seemingly disparate disciplines.

THE ALCHEMY OF TIME: A SHARED JOURNEY OF MASTERY

Jaeger-LeCoultre’s founding father, Antoine LeCoultre, and Nicolas Bonneville, though separated by centuries and pursuits, share at least one remarkable similarity—both were self-taught in their crafts. LeCoultre began his journey in 1833 as a pioneering watchmaker in the Swiss Vallée de Joux, while Bonneville discovered his passion for perfumery at just 12 years old during a formative trip to Grasse, the heart of French fragrance-making.

Over the years, Bonneville honed his olfactory skills under the tutelage of renowned perfumers Jacques Maurel and Francis Kurkdjian, building on his innate talent to craft distinctive and refined fragrances. Today, his dedication to mastery finds a natural home in Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Made of Makers programme, which invites visionary artists across various disciplines to reinterpret the maison’s legacy.

CRAFTING LUXURY THROUGH PRECISION

Bonneville’s approach to perfumery embodies the principles that have set haute parfumerie apart for centuries. His minimalist formulas—crafted with fewer, noble ingredients—offer clarity and authenticity, much like Jaeger-LeCoultre’s timepieces, which distil complexity into seamless functionality. “When creating perfumes, it’s crucial to dose raw materials carefully to preserve their unique olfactory character,” says Bonneville. His ethos of “less is more” mirrors the restraint and precision demanded in watchmaking, where every component must be meticulously calibrated.

In his work, Bonneville uses a high concentration of central ingredients to emphasise richness and longevity. This parallels Jaeger-LeCoultre’s dedication to horological innovation, where components are engineered to optimise performance and longevity while maintaining aesthetic elegance.

THE PROGRAMME

Jaeger-LeCoultre’s commitment to exploring artistic connections is epitomised by its collaborations with creators like Bonneville. Through the Made of Makers initiative, the maison has previously partnered with pastry chef Nina Métayer, who crafted desserts inspired by the Golden Ratio of the iconic Reverso watch, and lettering artist Alex Trochut, who designed Art Deco typefaces to adorn the Reverso’s caseback. These collaborations celebrate how Jaeger-LeCoultre’s heritage transcends the boundaries of watchmaking, offering inspiration across diverse art forms.

Bonneville’s inclusion in the programme reinforces this vision. The parallels between the precision of perfumery and the artistry of watchmaking come to life in this collaboration, showcasing how both crafts are rooted in a balance of tradition, innovation, and creative expression.

Bonneville captures the spirit of Jaeger-LeCoultre in three enchanting eau de parfum fragrances, each embodying a facet of the maison’s identity.

Timeless Stories, inspired by the enduring heritage of the Reverso watch, and with its deep notes of wood and leather, the scent evokes the nostalgic aromas of stables and saddles, conjuring images of timeless craftsmanship and the elegance of tradition.

Celestial Odyssey celebrates the celestial bodies—moon, sun, and stars—that have long guided watchmakers. This fragrance begins with the luminous freshness of Heart of Patchouli, transitioning to the warm, enveloping scent of Amber Woods, and culminating in the irresistible allure of Vanilla at its base.

The collection concludes with Precision Pioneer, a tribute to the artisanal mastery of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s manufacture. Its earthy warmth is grounded in the aromatic wood of the watchmaker’s bench, while smoky undertones recall the fiery intensity of the blacksmith’s forge—a powerful homage to both dedication and precision that define any true craftsman’s legacy.

Through this partnership, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Nicolas Bonneville have created a unique dialogue between two forms of craftsmanship. Whether it’s the intricate mechanism of a Reverso watch or the rich, layered notes of Bonneville’s fragrances, both crafts aim to capture the essence of artistry, tradition, and luxury.

What is perhaps most impressive is the fact that this initiative is truly just a celebration of artisanal craftsmanship, not a marketing ploy or a commercial venture. Indeed, the fragrances crafted by Nicolas Bonneville for Jaeger-LeCoultre are not commercially available for purchase, but were specifically developed purely as part of the maison’s Made of Makers programme. Rather than being financially driven, it’s inspiring to see an initiative that is content to explore the artistic interpretation of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s heritage across various creative disciplines.

This collaboration is not just a deeper exploration of these two fields, but a testament to the universality of this level of fine craftsmanship, something that has been revered and cherished throughout time.

The post Across Disciplines, the Art of Craftsmanship Endures appeared first on ExpatGo.

As the year comes to a close and holiday festivities ramp up, Heineken Malaysia is championing responsible enjoyment with a focus on safety. This festive season, the company is offering over RM10,000 worth of Grab ride vouchers to encourage partygoers to opt for safer transportation options.

From December 20, 2024 to January 5, 2025, consumers can redeem two RM10 Grab ride vouchers every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday by using the promo code ‘ENJOYRESPONSIBLY’—available while stocks last. This initiative underscores Heineken Malaysia’s commitment to making safety a key part of holiday celebrations.

“At Heineken Malaysia, we constantly introduce new initiatives and collaborations to ensure our beers are enjoyed safely and responsibly,” said Martijn van Keulen, Managing Director of Heineken Malaysia. “Since 2010, we’ve dedicated over 10% of Heineken’s media spend annually to advocating responsible consumption, totalling more than RM9 million to date. From launching Heineken 0.0 in 2019 to our collaboration with Grab Malaysia, we strive to make responsible choices easier and more accessible for everyone.”

ADVOCATING SAFETY THROUGH IMPACTFUL CAMPAIGNS

This year, Heineken Malaysia has amplified its moderation message through various platforms. The ‘When You Drive, Never Drink’ campaign, featuring Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, reinforced the importance of staying sober behind the wheel. Locally, the ‘Player 0.0’ initiative engaged over 1,500 participants in a mobile and sim racing competition to highlight the dangers of drinking and driving.

FESTIVE TIPS: LOW. SLOW. NO.

In line with the holiday spirit, Heineken Malaysia is sharing simple tips to ensure celebrations remain safe and enjoyable:

• LOW – Keep it Light: Alternate alcoholic beverages with water or choose lighter options to maintain a balanced holiday glow.
• SLOW – Savour the Moment: Sip responsibly, stay hydrated, and pair drinks with delicious food to enhance the festive mood.
• NO – Choose Wisely: Not every toast requires alcohol. Mocktails, sparkling water, or a de-alcoholised drink like Heineken 0.0 can be just as festive.

TOGETHERNESS WITH RESPONSIBILITY

Heineken Malaysia invites everyone to embrace true togetherness this holiday season by making thoughtful and responsible choices. Use the promo code ‘ENJOYRESPONSIBLY’ to claim your Grab ride vouchers and ensure a safe journey to and from your festivities. Terms and conditions apply.

All promotions and brand activities by Heineken Malaysia are strictly for non-Muslims aged 21 and above. The company continues to advocate responsible consumption and reminds everyone: when you drive, never drink.

For more information on HEINEKEN Malaysia and its initiatives, visit www.heinekenmalaysia.com.

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Jason Dennis Dcruz of The Olive Tree Group in Kuala Lumpur has made history as the second Malaysian to be crowned Heineken Global Draught Champion. The prestigious event, held in Amsterdam, marked the return of Heineken’s world-renowned competition after a four-year hiatus. The championship celebrates bartenders who master the perfect pour, showcasing technical precision and passion.

Jason, who began as a waiter in 2017 and now serves as Assistant Group Bar Manager, secured his spot after winning the National Champion title in Malaysia in September. He triumphed over 1,300 bartenders nationwide through HEINEKEN Malaysia’s Star Academy programme, an intensive training initiative designed to refine skills, emphasise responsible serving, and enhance customer engagement.

At the global competition, Jason outperformed 13 elite contenders, solidifying his position as a world-class bartender. He credited his mentors and peers for their guidance, saying, “This win is not just mine — it reflects the collective effort of everyone who supported me through the Star Academy programme.”

Martijn van Keulen, Managing Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia, highlighted the significance of Jason’s achievement: “His success is a testament to the high standards and talent within Malaysia’s hospitality industry. We’re proud to nurture this potential through our Star Academy programme.”

The Star Academy programme, a cornerstone of HEINEKEN Malaysia’s efforts, has trained over 10,000 bartenders, covering the company’s full brand portfolio. The initiative focuses on technical expertise, perfect pour techniques, and customer interaction, offering bartenders a platform to excel.

Leslie Gomez, Managing Director of The Olive Tree Group, praised Jason’s accomplishment, stating, “Teamwork makes the dream work! Jason’s dedication and passion exemplify the growing talent in Malaysia’s bartending scene. We’re grateful to HEINEKEN Malaysia for fostering industry excellence through initiatives like the Star Academy.”

The competition underscores Malaysia’s growing prominence in the global hospitality industry, with Jason’s victory serving as a source of pride and inspiration. Registrations for the next Star Academy cycle will open in May 2025, offering more bartenders an opportunity to elevate their craft.

Photos courtesy of Heineken and © Twycer / www.twycer.nl

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After 15 years of living in Malaysia, I have gotten so accustomed to not wearing shoes in the house that when I watch Western (mostly American) movies and TV series, I almost physically cringe when I see characters not only wearing shoes in the house, but putting their shoe-clad feet on sofas, on the bed, and just about anywhere else you can imagine. As I watch in horror, my inner voice is all but shouting. Shoes on the bed!? No!!

So a couple of questions come to mind for many expats when it comes to the whole ‘shoes off’ thing – why is it done here (almost universally), and is it in any way better than traipsing about the house in your trainers?

Well, it’s not just Malaysia, of course. Throughout Asia, a largely unspoken but very well-known ‘rule’ in private homes mandates the removal of shoes upon entry. In fact, if you’ve been in Asia long enough, you’ll know that it’s common to see a substantial pile of assorted footwear outside house parties, sometimes organized neatly on shoe racks at the entrance or just outside, or more often, just heaped higgledy-piggledy at the entry in a veritable shoe free-for-all.

DOES THE TYPE OF FLOORING MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

The practice of keeping the interior floors free from outdoor shoe contact stems from not-so-distant times when roads and footpaths were often laden with filth. Chinese superstitions reinforce this rule, associating wearing outdoor shoes inside with the introduction of ‘bad luck,’ symbolizing germs, into the home. The custom of going barefoot indoors is unusual; instead, slippers or rubber sandals were commonly worn.

In some early urban centres in Asia, ground floors were typically paved with stone slabs, supporting timber boards on upper levels. This timber, imported mainly from Southeast Asia, became a staple, shaping the architectural landscape. Varnished parquet floors, introduced to provide a stylish timber effect to post-war apartment buildings, became a commonplace feature in many homes, later falling somewhat out of favour. It’s still quite normal to find parquet floors in older homes in and around Kuala Lumpur, though.

The choice of flooring materials througout Asian cities was often influenced by the need for coolness, in addition to aesthetic considerations. English patterned encaustic floor tiles were widely exported to tropical regions from the late 19th century up to about the 1930s. While much of this material was lost during post-war redevelopment in cities like Singapore and Hong Kong, examples can still be found in various structures across South and Southeast Asia, as well as in China’s former treaty ports.

Marble and other stone flooring also features in plenty of Malaysian homes. Marble’s tendency to remain cooler than the air temperature contributes to its popularity. Indeed, marble slab flooring, popular in hot regions like Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and parts of India, provides a cool and aesthetically pleasing touch to buildings.

In some parts of Asia, the popularity of woollen carpets, especially large fitted ones, surged in the 1970s with the widespread adoption of air conditioning. Fitted carpets served a dual purpose, reducing noise in office environments and concealing dust effectively. However, though small area rugs are widely used in Malaysia, fitted or ‘wall-to-wall’ carpeting is exceedingly rare.

Probably the most commonly used flooring material in most city homes in Malaysia is the humble tile, though engineered wood-like flooring has seen a big surge in popularity in recent years.

Whatever the flooring type, though, shoes still remain firmly gathered at the front entryway. Apart from bringing ‘bad luck’ into the home, it’s hard to argue that tracking in dirt and dust by wearing shoes inside is something to be avoided, especially with the hard-surface floors mentioned.

IS REMOVING SHOES ACTUALLY BENEFICIAL?

So there’s definitely a cultural component to the removal of shoes when going into a home, but are there any real benefits to the practice? Specifically, is it more hygienic or healthier? Is there compelling evidence that going shoeless can halt the spread of germs in a home?

“Absolutely,” affirmed Gabriel Filippelli, chancellor’s professor for the department of Earth Sciences at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and executive director of Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute. “We can track in all sorts of bacteria, but certainly some of the ones we’re most concerned about are E. coli [bacteria],” he said, noting a range of serious gastrointestinal problems which can be caused by the bacteria. “There have been studies that swab the bottom of shoes and something like 99% of the shoes test positive for fecal material.”

However, bacteria isn’t the sole concern hitching a ride with dust and dirt around homes, gardens, and parks, emphasized Jill Litt, a professor of environmental studies at the University of Colorado in Boulder, currently working as a senior researcher at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, or ISGlobal, in Spain. “Studies have shown that in urban areas where there are older homes, lead in dust can be tracked into the home on the surface of shoes,” she said. “Other studies have shown that you can bring in pesticide residues from gardens via shoes.”

Heavy metals such as lead, copper, and zinc pervade urban soils due to decades of pollutants, while pesticide levels can be high in rural agricultural areas, added Litt. In the United States, homes built before 1978 are likely to contain lead-based paint, posing risks, especially to children. This is, unfortunately, still a minor problem in Malaysia, though more prevalent with decorative enamel paints, and less so with wall-covering latex paints. Lead exposure has no safe level, with children being particularly vulnerable due to their small size and close proximity to contaminants.

“For little ones, hand to mouth is one of the primary ways children get exposed to toxic substances and infectious disease agents,” said Litt.

One thing any Malaysian will tell you is that the shoe-free home means you need to ensure your floors are as dirt- and dust-free as possible. If not, you and your family will end up with dirty feet! (Do a quick check to see if this applies to you!) Cleaning pros suggest using wet or spray mops instead of vacuuming or sweeping with a broom, as the latter may stir up dust and toxins. Adding water to dirt might seem counterintuitive, but it’s the best way to remove toxins, noted Litt. Regularly clean horizontal surfaces with a damp cloth and avoid feather dusters.

Carpeted areas, such as large area rugs, should be vacuumed with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuum, not bagless vacuums. Smaller rugs can be taken outside and shaken (or, if you’re feeling aggressive, beaten).

While taking off shoes at the door is an effective way to limit germs and potentially toxic dust, guest comfort should be considered. Providing washable slippers or nonslip socks can be a considerate gesture, suggests Filippelli. “I do not like to walk around with bare feet inside, so here’s my hack. I have some slippers right inside my front door — a lot of other cultures do that as well,” he said. (Japan is certainly among them.)

Though this isn’t widely practiced in a lot of Malaysian households, at least in the sense of providing house slippers to visiting guests, I’ve been to some homes where slippers are made available. That’s more of the exception than the rule, however, at least in my experience. Malaysians just tend to keep their floors at home quite clean, and the rise of smart robot vacuums, including the combo vac and mop units, have made keeping floors clean easier than ever.

So while I’m not sure if or when I’ll ever return to my home country, if I do, the ubiquitous Asian ‘shoes off’ practice will be something I definitely take back with me!

The post Shoes Off! Why This Is the Norm in Asia – and Why It’s Beneficial appeared first on ExpatGo.

Paying too much attention to your phone might just be harming your relationships, and it’s not just common sense anymore; researchers have recently stepped in to make us take notice. The term “phubbing,” which refers to snubbing someone while engaging with your phone, has increasingly been making headlines, especially after researchers in Turkey discovered a concerning link between phubbing and lower marriage satisfaction among couples.

We’ve all seen it before, and have likely been on either the giving or receiving end of phubbing – or both. So what’s changed? Perhaps it’s a consequence of experiencing the cumulative effects of numerous micro-ostracisms that’s making us finally pay attention. With our phone usage veering dangerously close to becoming destructive, it begs the question: where should we draw the line when it comes to acceptable behaviour?

The word “phubbing” itself might sound like a playful creation, and that’s because it was coined in 2012 by the advertising agency McCann as part of an Australian English dictionary promotion. Back then, smartphones were still a novelty, and the idea of being snubbed by someone wielding such a little device seemed more humorous than alarming. Little did we know then that within a decade, many of our most precious relationships could be at risk.

STOP PHUBBING, START CONNECTING

In recent years, extensive research has delved into the phenomenon of phubbing, and its impact on relationships has been a focal point. The findings reveal a troubling trend: phubbing, the act of engrossing ourselves in our phones while in the presence of others, has been linked to decreased marital satisfaction and emotional well-being for both partners. This of course extends in many ways to non-marital relationships, too.

Emma Seppälä, a psychologist at prestigious institutions like Stanford and Yale, and author of the Happiness Track, aptly points out the irony of phubbing. While it is seemingly intended to foster connections through social media and texting, it actually disrupts the very essence of our in-person relationships, robbing us of precious present-moment connections.

As a species, we are naturally wired to be highly attuned to others, particularly our partners. When we perceive that someone, especially our significant other, isn’t giving us their full attention, it triggers feelings of being disregarded, unheard, and disrespected.

Essentially, when you pick up your phone during a conversation with your partner, you are unconsciously prioritizing something or someone else over them. Your partner, who should be your top priority, might understandably question the message you’re sending.

Research shows that the power of genuine, uninterrupted conversations without smartphones present cannot be overstated. Regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, or initial mood, research shows that putting away our phones during interactions leads to increased feelings of connection, more productive conversations, and greater overall happiness. Empathy and closeness are more readily experienced when smartphones are out of the picture.

At the very least, turning the phone over on a table, screen-down, sends a subtle, but meaningful signal to the other person that the in-person conversation is important to you. But why not go all the way, and just put the phone out of sight entirely?

That’s because, perhaps surprisingly, even having a phone visible on the table at all during a conversation can interfere with the depth of connection felt and the quality of the exchange. It seems that our devices, even when dormant, cast a shadow over the potential for authentic human connection.

It’s a good idea, then, to keep your phone out of sight during conversations. Don’t just turn it over. Put it away in your pocket (or purse), backpack, desk drawer, or sling bag.

ON EVERY LEVEL, WE KNOW PHUBBING IS BAD, AND YET…

MIT sociologist Sherry Turkle has dedicated the past two decades to studying how technology affects our behavior, both in solitude and within groups. Her eye-opening research has revealed a startling statistic: a whopping 89% of Americans admit to pulling out their phones during social interactions, even though 82% acknowledge that doing so negatively impacts the quality of their conversations. It appears that we are knowingly engaging in behavior that harms our interactions with others.

Consider this jaw-dropper: According to research by Wilhelm Hoffman of Chicago University, the urge to check social media is stronger than the urge for sex!

Turkle’s studies have shed light on the detrimental effects of introducing cell phones into social situations. Firstly, it diminishes the depth and quality of discussions, as people tend to focus on topics that wouldn’t mind being interrupted. Secondly, it erodes the empathic connection between individuals, leaving them feeling more disconnected and unsatisfied with the exchange.

The use of smartphones during social interactions not only damages relationships but also devalues our own experiences. A study discovered that those who used their smartphones while dining out with friends experienced less interest and enjoyment, and more boredom compared to those who refrained from doing so.

Moreover, the repercussions of phubbing extend to our mental health. It threatens four fundamental human needs: self-esteem, meaningful existence, control, and belongingness. Engaging in phubbing can make individuals feel excluded, unimportant, and ostracized.

Despite recognizing the negative consequences of phubbing when others do it to us, we remain in a state of denial when it comes to our own phone habits. Breaking free from this compulsive behavior proves challenging, even if we know it’s detrimental to our relationships and well-being.

STEPS TO TAKE

Perhaps the first and even easiest step is to put your phone away – like out of reach, out of sight – during mealtimes. Make meals a no-device time. “We teach table settings,” says Laura Akano, who teaches etiquette to young people and adults at Polished Manners. “No one has created a space yet for the phone or tablet. There is no place for it at the table.”

So, the next time you sit down for a meal with a friend, coworker, or your family, remember this simple rule: keep the phone off the table. Let meals become a sacred space for genuine listening and communication.

Even when dining alone, resist the temptation to have your device as a companion. Embrace the moment, immerse yourself in your surroundings, and who knows, you might even strike up a conversation with the person sitting at the neighbouring table. Make every mealtime a device-free zone, where you can truly be present with yourself and those around you.

Here are some other ideas:

Create Device-Free Special Spaces at Home: Designate your car, kitchen table, bed, backyard or patio as a device-free zone. These spaces are set aside for face-to-face conversations only. 

Do a Phone Fast. Stay off your phone completely for an entire day (or weekend). If you feel you just can’t do this, allocate fasting intervals of three or four hours during the day. Be off your phone (have it locked in a drawer or leave it in your car) from, say, 9:00am to 12:00pm and again from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. You can also be off your phone for the full day except for two or three pre-determined periods to check, each no longer than 15-20 minutes.

See How Often You’re Checking. Find out how much time you’re really spending on your devices can help break through any denial you might have, especially if you’re a low-key phone addict. You can install Checky, a phone habit tracker on your mobile devices, or RescueTime on your computer so you can see how often you’re checking email, social media, etc.

Don’t Replace Face-to-Face Interactions with Electronic Ones. Research consistently highlights the vital role of strong social relationships for our mental and physical well-being. While virtual connections have their place, nothing beats the intimacy and closeness of in-person interactions. True friendships involve more than online chatting – it’s about, for example, a person who will bring you lunch and checking in on you when you’re unwell. Let’s not confuse digital contact with genuine intimacy. Instead of endless social media conversations, prioritise quality time with friends. Whether it’s a lunch date, attending parties, playing sports, or engaging in some retail therapy with a friend, face-to-face interactions have proven positive effects on our mental health, lifting our spirits and reducing depression.

Keep Your Perspective. If you find yourself being phubbed, try to be understanding and not take offense. Remember, it’s a natural impulse driven by biology. Be patient and compassionate, but also communicate your feelings and set a clear boundary that you don’t appreciate phubbing during interactions. Of course, you must also follow those guidelines yourself!

Next time you’re with someone, resist the urge to reach for your phone. Instead, put it away and give them your full attention. Look them in the eyes and truly listen to what they have to say. Genuine human connection is worth embracing without distractions.

The post Smartphone Etiquette: Are You Guilty of Phubbing? appeared first on ExpatGo.

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At Sunway Sanctuary, we provide comprehensive healthcare services to meet all your needs. These encompass a wide range of offerings, such as traditional complementary medicine (TCM), physiotherapy, lifestyle programming, massage services, and health education. We aim to provide you with everything necessary to support your general healthcare and well-being conveniently at your fingertips.

ANNEXED TO SUNWAY MEDICAL CENTRE, OUR INTERNATIONALLY ACCREDITED, AWARD-WINNING PRIVATE HOSPITAL

Residents at Sunway Sanctuary will enjoy convenient and direct access to our renowned flagship hospital, Sunway Medical Centre. As the largest private tertiary hospital in Malaysia, it provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services to cater to your every need. With over 60 medical specialties covered, the hospital boasts an extensive panel of highly skilled medical specialists.

Additionally, you can rely on their round-the-clock accident and emergency unit, cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, and convenient pharmaceutical and telemedicine services. Rest assured that you will have access to top-notch healthcare facilities and expertise throughout your stay at Sunway Sanctuary.

ACROSS FROM SUNWAY TRADITIONAL COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE (TCM) CENTRE

If you’re interested in complementary treatments and therapies such as Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture, Sunway TCM Centre is located in Sunway Geo and conveniently connected to Sunway Sanctuary via an overhead bridge for easy access.

WELLNESS MODELLING DESIGNED FOR YOU IN MIND

As a long-term resident of Sunway Sanctuary, you’ll be entitled to a complimentary yearly medical check-up at Sunway Medical Centre, in addition to doctor visits by Sunway Home Healthcare.

Consequently, you’ll be assigned to a dedicated Sunway Sanctuary coordinator to have a Wellness Programming Discussion, as we recognise individuality in each and every resident; lifestyle difference, diet difference, and overall preference.

A tailored lifestyle modification programme will be designed with you in mind as a joint effort to achieve a healthier you.

For more information, you can visit Sunway Sanctuary’s website HERE, or download the e-brochure by clicking HERE. To contact their team, you can also call +6019.313 0061.

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