Hi… I’m Irwan Zulkefli, someone with a head full of thoughts and a love for writing that never really left.
I started blogging back in 2004, took a long break, and now I’m back to sharing bits of life, motivation, mental health, lifestyle, travel, fashion, and whatever feels real.
Nothing fancy. Just honest posts, from me to you. Cheers for being here. Let’s see where this goes.
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, an iconic Malaysian landmark proudly renowned worldwide for its exquisite pewter craftsmanship. As I stepped into the centre, it felt like embarking on a journey through Malaysia’s rich heritage, with each room vividly narrating stories of tradition, innovation and national pride.
Royal Selangor’s remarkable journey began in 1885 with Yong Koon, an ambitious pewtersmith who emigrated from China to Kuala Lumpur in search of better prospects. From its humble beginnings as a small workshop, Royal Selangor has grown impressively into the world’s largest pewter manufacturer, earning global acclaim for its superior quality, fine craftsmanship and artistic excellence, truly a proud Malaysian success story.
During my visit, one particularly captivating story highlighted Royal Selangor’s ingenuity during World War II. Facing challenging circumstances, the company adeptly transformed scrap metal into essential household goods, showcasing their extraordinary resilience and inventive spirit in tough times.
A personal highlight was the interactive workshop where I crafted my own pewter dish, guided by expert artisans whose commitment to perfection was genuinely inspiring. This hands-on activity deepened my admiration for the detailed craftsmanship and meticulous care behind every Royal Selangor piece.
Today, Royal Selangor proudly continues to thrive, blending traditional techniques with modern design, collaborating with renowned international brands and steadfastly preserving its legacy of excellence and innovation.
This visit was incredibly enriching, reminding me of how passion, innovation and resilience have driven Royal Selangor’s ongoing success. It’s a must-visit experience for anyone keen to explore and celebrate this distinguished part of Malaysian heritage.
The term “low vibration” is often used in wellness and self-awareness spaces, but what does it truly mean? At its heart, it refers to a state where you feel emotionally or mentally weighed down—uninspired, anxious, demotivated, or simply not yourself. It isn’t something mystical or abstract; it’s about how you’re feeling and the energy you’re giving out.
These moments happen to all of us. What matters is how we respond to them. I don’t believe in forcing myself to “snap out of it” and I believe in meeting myself where I am and gently shifting into a better state.
Here’s how I manage those low vibration moments in a more intentional and nurturing way:
Accept It Without Self-Criticism I allow myself to feel what I’m feeling without judgement. It’s a passing state, not a permanent condition.
Reset My Environment Clearing clutter, lighting a candle, or simply opening a window can do wonders. A peaceful space helps create a peaceful mind.
Move My Body A walk, a stretch, or a short workout helps shake off the heaviness. Movement is energy in motion.
Reduce Digital Clutter I cut down on social media and anything that adds to the noise. Instead, I reach for silence, a book, or uplifting content.
Practise Gratitude I pause and list a few things I’m grateful for, no matter how small. Gratitude always helps me reconnect with the present.
Basic Self-Care I drink more water, eat something nourishing, and get enough rest. Sometimes, it’s just my body asking for kindness.
Reach Out to Someone I Trust A short call or message with a close friend always helps me feel lighter and more grounded.
Low vibration days aren’t failures, they’re gentle reminders to realign, reflect, and recharge. The more I honour those moments, the quicker I return to my true rhythm.
Every guy has that mental list of dream pieces we’d love to own one day. You know the kind of timeless, ridiculously well-made, and a little bit “treat yourself.” These aren’t just clothes or accessories, they’re statements. Investments. Items that make you feel something.
Here are my current top 3 wishlist fashion items for men and why they’re worth keeping an eye (…and savings) on. Check out what’s made the list this month.
1. Hermès Chypre Sandals
Price: RM3,800 – RM4,500
Material & Build Crafted from calfskin leather, these sandals have a soft, premium upper that moulds to your feet over time. The sole is chunky but lightweight, made from durable rubber, and the velcro strap makes them easy to wear without looking like dad sandals.
Style Vibes Pair them with relaxed trousers and a plain tee for everyday wear, or go full resort-mode with linen and short sleeves. They’re also great with cargo shorts or even slouchy tailored fits. If you’re confident, they work with socks too and not in a try-hard way.
Functionality The thick sole gives solid support for walking, so you’ll actually want to wear them all day and not just when you’re popping downstairs for coffee. Great for travel, holidays, or daily errands.
Why It’s Worth It These aren’t sandals you’ll throw out after one season. They break in beautifully and go with everything. Once you wear them a few times, they basically become your go-to, and they age better than cheaper versions. A quiet classic.
2. Loewe Puzzle Bag XL in Black
Price: RM13,000 – RM15,000
Material & Craftsmanship Made from soft-grain calfskin leather, the bag feels solid yet supple. It’s got a slightly matte finish and it’s not too shiny, not too delicate and that signature puzzle-panel construction gives it that unmistakable Loewe design without being over-the-top.
Design & Styling This XL version works especially well for men who carry a bit more such as laptop, chargers, notebook, maybe even a spare shirt. The black version is clean, minimal and goes with everything. I’d wear it with black jeans and a Cuban collar shirt, or even a simple tee and oversized trousers.
Functionality Spacious and well-structured, it holds your daily gear without looking bulky. Comes with a sturdy top handle and an adjustable shoulder strap, so you can carry it crossbody or just hand-held. Great for city days, flights, or even as a smart overnight bag.
Why It’s Worth It It’s rare to find a designer bag that’s this practical. The Loewe Puzzle XL blends function and form perfectly and the fact that it doesn’t scream logos makes it even better. You’ll use it more than you think, and it’ll hold up for years.
Build & Movement It’s in 41mm stainless steel case, the classic Oyster bracelet, and Rolex’s perpetual self-winding movement. Waterproof to 100 metres and built like a tank, but still light and comfortable enough for daily wear.
That Dial Colour The turquoise dial is the main event. It adds a fresh, standout twist to a very simple, clean design. It’s bright without being too bold, and works across any skin tone or outfit.
How to Wear It Honestly, it goes with everything smart, casual, traditional wear, you name it. Looks slick with a hoodie and denim, or with a crisp blazer and Chelsea boots. You don’t need to overstyle it the dial does the talking.
Why It’s Worth It It’s one of the few watches that feels just as good to wear as it looks. Plus, it holds (or even increases) its value over time. A proper “buy once, wear forever” piece especially if you want one iconic watch in your collection.
See you in August 2025
Fashion isn’t about how much you own, it’s about choosing a few really solid pieces you can keep reaching for. These three are built to last, easy to style, and give you that subtle edge without being overdone.
Can you imagine? A handbag just sold for €8.6 million and no, this isn’t just any designer piece. It was Jane Birkin’s personal Hermès Birkin. Yes, that Jane Birkin, the British-French actress, singer, and style icon who inspired the creation of the world’s most coveted handbag back in the 1980s.
It all started when Jane found herself on a flight next to the Chief Executive of Hermès. She casually mentioned how she could never find a stylish bag that was also practical for everyday use. That conversation led to the creation of the now-iconic Birkin bag and a symbol of understated luxury, exclusivity, and timeless appeal.
But this sale wasn’t just about the brand or the bag. It was about her bag, the one Jane herself carried, scribbled on, patched, and personalised over the years. It wasn’t pristine, and that’s exactly what made it priceless. Every scratch, scuff and charm on it told a story. It was full of soul, and that’s something money usually can’t buy.
This wasn’t just a purchase. It was a piece of living history that rich with legacy, cultural significance, and rare emotional depth. To the untrained eye, it may appear to be a worn leather handbag but for those who truly understand the deeper narrative of fashion, this was the ultimate collector’s treasure.
€8.6 million? That’s what provenance, personality, and a powerful story are worth in the world of true luxury.
The auction took place at Sotheby’s in Paris on July 10, 2025, during high-profile Fashion Icons auction,
Let’s be honest, anxiety has become a silent companion for far too many of us these days. It creeps in during the quiet moments, lingers even when things seem fine, and sometimes shows up uninvited when we least expect it.
I’ve become much more conscious about taking care of my mental wellness over the years. For me, it’s not just a buzzword. It’s a serious part of staying grounded and functioning in a world that rarely slows down. I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs, and while I’m no expert, I’ve learnt a few things that help me cope and manage those anxious moments.
Some days, it’s as simple as taking a walk. Other days, I need to unplug from everything, journal it out, or speak to someone I trust. And that’s okay. It’s okay to need different things on different days.
I’m a huge supporter of mental health awareness and the idea that getting help should be normal, accessible, and free from stigma. Not many people know about Klinik MENTARI (https://mentari.moh.gov.my) a public mental health clinic under Malaysia’s Ministry of Health. And yes, anyone can go. You don’t need to feel like you’re falling apart to seek help. Sometimes, it’s just about having someone listen.
To anyone struggling quietly: you don’t have to. You’re not weak for feeling overwhelmed. You’re human. Please reach out if you need to, even if it’s just to talk things out.
For me #kitajagakita is still relevant and let’s keep normalising these conversations. Let’s support one another and, most importantly, be kinder to ourselves.
“How to Get from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be” by Jack Canfield holds a special spot on my bookshelf and an even bigger one in my heart. This book was a thoughtful gift from a former boss, someone who genuinely valued personal growth and wanted our entire team to flourish. Little did I know at the time, it would become one of my favourite books ever.
Jack Canfield, known for his uplifting “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series, fills this book with practical advice and easy-to-follow steps. From the first time I opened it, I felt instantly connected to its message. It clearly guides you through figuring out what you really want, overcoming setbacks, and building a mindset primed for success.
I’ve found myself coming back to this book time and time again, and each reread brings new ideas and fresh perspectives. It’s not only motivating but also serves as a handy reminder of how crucial goal-setting, persistence, and personal responsibility truly are.
What sets this book apart from others in its genre is Jack’s straightforward, down-to-earth approach. His advice isn’t abstract theory and it’s clear, practical, and genuinely helpful for anyone looking to make meaningful changes in their life. His ability to simplify complex ideas into achievable steps has always inspired me.
If you’re thinking about making changes in your life or career, I highly recommend giving this book a go. Whether you’re just starting out or already on your journey, Jack Canfield offers valuable insights that can help bridge the gap between where you are now and where you’d love to be.
It’s genuinely a gift that keeps on giving! Thank You for the valuable gift for life…
The past few weeks have been full-on-busy, demanding, yet incredibly productive. With everything going at full speed, I knew it was time to pause, reset, and recharge. Because in today’s fast-paced world, prioritising your wellness isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential. A little escape helps you feel more grounded, energised, and ready to give back and not just to yourself, but to the people and world around you.
So off I went on a short trip to Penang Island with some of my closest friends. Three days of good company, laughter, food, and much-needed downtime. Sometimes, that’s all you need.
Naturally, being in Penang means one thing is FOOD! From street eats to cultural gems, we made the most of it.
Breathtaking Panoramic View from Bukit Bendera
One of the standout highlights? ‘Kopi Hutan’, quietly nestled amidst the lush greenery of Bukit Bendera. The moment you step in, the world slows down.
Cool mountain breezes, the gentle rustle of trees, and a view that stretches across the treetops – it’s pure calm. Add a cup of rich, locally brewed coffee into the mix, and you’ve got the perfect pause from Penang’s buzz.
It’s more than just a café – it’s a moment, an experience, a breath of forest-scented air. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a little escape above the city.
Lunch time with a twist. Did something a little different this time and brought the whole gang to the charming Jawi House Gallery Café. It’s not your typical tourist stop, but trust me, the biryani alone is worth the detour.
Fragrant, deeply spiced, and steeped in tradition it’s a plate that tells a story. A humble Michelin recognised gem, quietly nestled amongst Penang’s colonial lanes. A refreshing cultural twist to the usual Nasi Kandar trail.
If you’re after a taste of Penang’s lesser-known culinary heritage, this one’s a must. Hidden gem? Undoubtedly. Delicious? Without question.
Let’s be honest, no trip to Penang is quite complete without making the pilgrimage to Balik Pulau for durian. And this time, it truly stole the show.
Freshly picked, gloriously creamy, and bursting with that unmistakable flavour and each bite reminded us why this fruit reigns supreme. Even better? The prices were surprisingly kind to the wallet compared to city spots.
It was the main event of our getaway, and let’s just say it lived up to every bit of the hype.
Balik Pulau udang merah durians and more! Sweet, creamy, and worth every bite (and burp!) 😝
There’s so much more we did, and I’ll save the rest for a few upcoming posts. But for now, what mattered most was the experience and being present, laughing until late, and reconnecting with people who matter.
Because sometimes, the best journeys aren’t just about the places you visit, but the moments you share along the way.
I did something for myself recently, I went off on a 20-day solo travel journey across England and Scotland. It was spontaneous, exciting, and absolutely worth it. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like travelling alone in the UK, here’s how it all unfolded.
Why I Did It
To be honest, I just needed time for myself. Life’s been full-on, and I hadn’t had a proper break in a long time a real one where I wasn’t rushing, planning, or worrying about what’s next.
Since the pandemic, I hadn’t been back to Europe. This was my first time embracing solo travel after the pandemic and I wanted a mix of familiar cities and fresh spots. So I picked places I’d been before and loved, like London and Oxford, but also added new destinations like the Bath, Cotswolds and Edinburgh.
This trip wasn’t about ticking off a list. It was about breathing, wandering, and just letting the days unfold however they wanted to. Sometimes, you just need to hit reset and this was mine.
London: The Familiar Rush and Quiet Corners
London feels like an old friend always buzzing, always busy. It’s the perfect starting point for any solo travel adventure in England. I spent a few days just wandering from the pastel-hued charm of Notting Hill to the scenic river walks along the South Bank.
London Bridge from Tower of LondonBeautiful houses in Notting Hill
Each morning began with strolls through the city’s stunning parks such as Hyde Park, St. James’s Park, and The Regent’s Park soaking up the greenery and spotting curious little wildlife along the way. I found comfort in hopping between cafés, sipping tea or coffee, and watching the world go by.
I stumbled upon corners of London I’d somehow missed before quiet lanes, tucked-away shops, and unexpected views. The museums and theatres? Absolutely brilliant, as always. And yes, I did treat myself to afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason, followed by a bit of retail therapy along Regent Street and Oxford Street. No regrets at all!
Oxford: Brains, Bikes, and Bookshops
Oxford felt like stepping into a different world. The architecture was unreal those sandstone buildings, narrow lanes, and endless bikes! I loved the slower pace here. Got lost in Blackwell’s bookshop and didn’t even mind. For anyone planning a solo UK travel itinerary, Oxford is a lovely cultural stop.
Balliol Collage, University of Oxford
Cotswolds: Storybook Vibes All the Way
This was a dream. The Cotswolds were everything I hoped for stone cottages, rolling green hills, and sheep (so many sheep). I stayed in a quiet little village where time felt like it had stopped. It’s one of the best solo travel destinations in the UK, especially if you’re after peace and scenery.
Bath Spa: Healing Waters and Georgian Beauty
If you ever want a mix of spa day and stunning architecture, Bath is it. I visited the Roman Baths, had a soak at Thermae Bath Spa (rooftop views were awesome!), and just let myself slow down. It was a lovely blend of self-care and discovery the perfect addition to any 20-day UK itinerary.
Edinburgh: The Grand Finale
Scotland greeted me with misty mornings, dramatic skies, and strong coffee. Edinburgh felt majestic – a little moody, but in the best way. I spent half the day soaking up the stories of Edinburgh Castle and reflecting on the rich, often intense history between England and Scotland.
I took on the hike up Arthur’s Seat (a bit of a push, but totally worth it), strolled along the Royal Mile, and soaked in royal traditions at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Though I ended up stuck indoors for a day thanks to the severe Eowyn Storm that swept across Ireland, the UK, and Norway, solo travelling to Edinburgh, Scotland is an absolute must. The mix of nature, history, and culture hits different.
The Bits In Between
Trains. Journalling. Moments of doubt. Quiet joy. Solo travel isn’t just about sightseeing it’s about soaking in the in-betweens. The silence, the surprises, the growth. This trip gave me all of that.
Would I Do It Again? Absolutely.
Travelling alone in the UK gave me more than just views it gave me space to think, to feel, and to reconnect.
Funny how the biggest changes in life don’t always come with fireworks, isn’t it?
Sometimes it’s just a quiet moment that hits you out of nowhere and you realise something’s shifted. You’ve grown. Not in some massive, dramatic way… but in little things. Like how you say no without overthinking. Or how you’ve started enjoying your own company more. Or even how you’ve started noticing how nice your shower smells in the morning.
That’s the kind of stuff I want to write about here.
We’re constantly being told to chase the ‘next big thing’, but I reckon there’s something powerful in paying attention to the now to those tiny, often overlooked moments that actually say a lot about where we’re at.
Like:
Going for a walk with no real plan.
Actually sitting down to enjoy your cuppa.
That one song that catches you off guard.
Or realising, quietly, that you’ve let something go that used to weigh you down.
They’re not life-changing on the surface. But they keep me grounded. They remind me that not everything meaningful has to be loud or bold. Sometimes, the softest moments speak the loudest, if you’re paying attention.
After a long hiatus, I’m finally returning to something that has always felt like home, blogging. I first began sharing my thoughts and experiences back in 2004, during the early days of personal blog through “The Kingdom”. Over the years, life unfolded in ways that demanded my focus and energy, and blogging gradually took a back seat.
Though I’ve often thought about coming back, it’s only now that I’ve found the clarity and commitment to begin again. This time, I return with a renewed sense of purpose. My blog will focus on lifestyle themes that are close to my heart, including motivation, mental health, travel, foodies, fashion and retail. These are the very elements that have shaped both my personal and professional journey.
You can expect a mix of personal reflections and industry insights in the posts to come. I truly hope you’ll join me in this new chapter. Your support will mean the world as I rediscover the joy of writing and sharing once more.
The Kingdom, redefined 