Last year when McDonald’s Malaysia displayed their iconic Mekdi at their very first restaurant in Bukit Bintang, I absolutely loved the idea! It’s just so Malaysian and it brought so many people together in appreciation for this very Malaysian nickname that we (Malaysians) gave to our much loved restaurant McDonald’s.

But I hardly go to town, so I didn’t get to take a photo with the signage then. So when I heard that they were extending this initiative to more of their restaurants all around Malaysia in conjunction with celebrating 38 years since opening it’s first ever McDonald’s Restaurant in Malaysia- I was absolutely thrilled!

With the unwavering support by the rakyat, Malaysians nationwide were given the power to vote at https://www.mcdonalds.com.my/Mekdi for which McDonald’s restaurant should display the iconic Mekdi signage, and these were the chosen restaurants:

• McDonald’s Bukit Bintang
• McDonald’s Titiwangsa
• McDonald’s KLCC
• McDonald’s Putrajaya, Presint 2
• McDonald’s Kuala Selangor
• McDonald’s Greenlane, Penang
• McDonald’s Jln Gopeng, Ipoh, Perak
• McDonald’s Stulang Laut, Johor
• McDonald’s Kulai, Johor
• McDonald’s Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan
• McDonald’s Taman Buaya, Malacca
• McDonald’s Teluk Cempedak, Pahang
• McDonald’s Kota Bahru, Kelantan
• McDonald’s Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu
• McDonald’s Kuching 1, Sarawak
• McDonald’s Api-Api, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

So I went to the closest Mekdi to me, which is in Putrajaya and YESSS! I finally have a shot with this iconic signage! I’m so happy! Unfortunately my baby boys were asleep when I took this shot.. But am sure gonna bring them back and take another shot with the whole family!

Also, there’s a new twist to their beloved Nasi Lemak McD.. Now we get to choose to have it with either Rendang Ayam, Spicy Chicken McDeluxe Cutlet or Grilled Chicken Burger (GCB) Cutlet.. Woot woot! Not to forget some scrumptious Malaysian inspired desserts – the all-new Cendol McFlurry  and a comeback on the Corn Pie and Cendol-flavoured ice cream.. Super YUMMSS!

Don’t you just love how McDonald’s Malaysia is being localised and that they are embracing the essence of being Malaysian?

From its food, to its people, as well as the causes that the company champions such as:

• Raising the standards of human capital development in Malaysia by nurturing young talents and helping them build meaningful careers..
• Various initiative organised to give back to the local communities it operates within. E.g. Anugerah Guru Inspirasi, Flood Relief Efforts, Food Sponsorship for frontlines during the Movement Control Order (MCO), Programmes under Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC Malaysia), and ‘Back-to-School’ programme.

Business wise pun they are very localised, for example:

• They always come up with amazing localised flavours and menus,
• Their ingredients are also locally sourced,
• Their workforce pun, 95% Malaysian,
• And their franchisees are all 100% Malaysian!

So, sapa tak pergi lagi to Mekdi and take photo with the signage.. take the opportunity now before it’s too late! Share the our proud Malaysianess and try out their awesome Nasi Lemak McD too! Don’t forget to hashtag  #Mekdi #McDonaldsMalaysia #NasiLemakMcD if you’re posting on your social media!

Few weeks ago, I was given the opportunity to check out the new SOPs in LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort in compliance with the #NewNormal post the Movement Control Order (MCO). At LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, you get to experience the LEGOLAND Theme Park, Water Park, Hotel and SEA LIFE Malaysia all in one LEGO themed destination so we were really excited.

This was the first time that I took my boys out since MCO and of course my boys were thrilled to finally be out of the house, after months of being confined in our small little apartment.

Just like anywhere else these days, there are temperate check and check-in stations all around the resort. This includes check-in stations at the main entrances of the resort, the water park, theme park and SEA LIFE Malaysia.

New Health & Safety Measure at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort

There are a series of  new health and safety measures at Legoland Malaysia Resort below, which will pretty obvious the moment you arrive the resort. In order for all of us to #KitaJagaKita, guest are required to adhere to the guidelines provided so everyone can have a good time without having to worry.

Some of the measure that we should adhere to on our side include:

• Keeping an eye on latest updates about the resort on their website and social media.
• Prepare for ‘contactless’ payments instead of cash whenever possible
• Wear a face mask when we’re in the resort
• Refrain from visiting the resort should you start displaying any symptoms associated with COVID-19, instead contact them to amend your booking.
• Maintain social distancing at all times.

SOCIAL DISTANCING

While we were there, we noticed a number of social distancing measures that were in place to ensure that everyone can still enjoy their time at the resort. One of the best measure in my opinion is the fact that they have reduced their daily ticket capacity. This in itself assures us as parents that the park won’t be too crowded and that social distancing can be still practised with ease. Other social distancing measures in placed include:

• Leaving empty seats between guests on on rides
• Ensuring gaps between guest in dining area by removing or blocking seats
• Introduction of new capacity limits for their indoor experiences and facilities such as shops, theatres and guest service building
• Distance or seat gaps for live show and theatrical scenes

They’ve also suspended some experience and facilities to ensure social distancing is maintain. But that also means that there are a number of areas that are closed off so the kids won’t be able to play in those areas.

HYGIENE & DISINFECTION MEASURES

Besides a large number of hygiene stations around the resort and parks, we also noticed a few guys walking around the park with what looks like a backpack of disinfection spray.

We can see that LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort enhanced their cleaning measures a lot. Throughout the day, you will also notice their staff disinfecting high-frequency touch points such as tables and chairs, service counters, flush handles, door handles, elevator buttons and taps.

We also notice that the staff ensures to clean and disinfect rides after each guest, so that really put our mind at ease as parents.

FOOD & DINING AT LEGOLAND MALAYSIA RESORT

Eating at the hotel and around the park is different this time as well. they’ve introduced new menu offerings across their food outlets to have more ‘Grab & Go’ options. Their cutlery and condiments are also provided to guest with meals or on request- so they are not left in open areas anymore.

Their hotel breakfast is also served differently now. You are now required to pick a designated time slot for breakfast. There isn’t a wide array of buffet spread, but instead you will be able to choose your meal from a breakfast menu provided. Although the options are limited, I would say that it’s still kind of a buffet style, as you are able to order more of your favourite dishes if you’d like.

LEGOLAND MALAYSIA RESORT’S NEW NORMAL

Overall I would say that Legoland Malaysia Resort did a good job at implementing the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health. My boys were pretty used to this #NewNormal, which didn’t quite bother them from having fun at LEGOLAND’s theme park, water park as well as SEA LIFE Malaysia. We were a bit disappointed to find out that certain areas were closed off, but I guess that’s all done for the safety of everyone.

As more and more people and families are easing up to the idea of travelling and going on holiday within Malaysia, let us not forgot to adhere to the guidelines and precautions set by the Ministry of Health so we can stay healthy and safe, while enjoying some time of happiness and togetherness with our family and friends.

For more information on LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort protocols, head on to: https://www.legoland.com.my/planning-your-visit/safety-measure/

Did you know that tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in childhood? Infact, 40% of children have tooth decay by the time they enter kindergarten.

Some parents may think that it’s not a problem since they’re just baby teeth, but research shows that tooth decay and cavities might affect the development and alignment of their future adult teeth.

They are even linked to other health problems in the future, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Tooth decay and cavities are easy to prevent, yet many parents tend to take it lightly and ignore the proper steps to keep their children’s teeth clean and healthy.

Don’t Skip Fluoride

We’ve all heard about how too much fluoride is bad for a child.

While this is true, most parents interpret this as skipping fluoride altogether, which is a big mistake.

While fluoride-free toothpaste may be able to clean, they offer little to no protection against plaque and tooth decay.

The trick is to use the recommended amount of toothpaste – grain size (1-3 years old) or pea size (3+ years old)

Avoid Sticky Sweets

Sugar is bad for teeth, especially the kind that sticks to your teeth.

So that means sweets like toffee, gummy bears caramel and even dried fruit, are not the best choices for snack time.

For healthy teeth and gums, limit their sugar intake and ensure they brush their teeth right after.

Supervise Brushing

Sure we want our kids to be independent and all, but not when it comes to brushing their teeth.

Most children (especially ones below 6-years-old) don’t brush all of their teeth and sometimes hardly any of them.

So instead of sending them to the bathroom while you get busy with your phone, be involved.

Do it yourself if you must – at least until they’re are older and understand what they need to do.

Wipe Them Clean

At a time when brushing isn’t convenient, wiping your child’s teeth and gums can help in maintaining their oral hygiene and avoid plaque build up.

Individually packed and sterile tooth and gum wipes can be really helpful when you’re out and about.

PIGEON Children’s Toothgel is co-developed with leading Paediatric Dentist in Singapore to effectively prevent tooth decay in children. It is made with dentist recommended level of 1,000ppm fluoride that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

PIGEON Baby Tooth & Gum Wipes are free from alcohol, colouring, artificial fragrances and preservatives. It is sterilized with individual sachet and made from 100% food grade ingredients.

Originally developed for Pigeon Malaysia on Parenthood.my

Treating yourself to a spa experience is probably far from your mind at the moment.

Or maybe it has been on your mind, but you just don’t have the time or maybe even feel guilty about taking some time off for yourself.

Well, I say- screw that, because every woman – especially if you’re a mum- deserves to take some time to rejuvenate and be pampered.

As the saying goes, a happy mummy makes a happy baby, so taking 2 hours of your time way from your baby or kids would probably do more good than anything else.

If you’re cracking your head on where to go because there are just too many to choose from, well, let me share my recent experience at Swasana Spa at Impiana KLCC Hotel so you can judge the place for yourself.

Swasana Spa is located on the 4th floor of Impiana KLCC Hotel.

Upon arriving, you’ll be led to a waiting area where you’ll be served a refreshing cup of their signature welcome drink.

If you opt for an oil massage, here is also where you can choose the type of oil you’d like to use for your treatment.

Swasana Massage– their signature massage is a blend of Asia’s 3 most popular massage styles – Balinese, Thai, and Malay. The signature massage also incorporates Seri Dewi Facial – a type of facial that adopts an acupressure approach to the vital points on the face.

It enhances blood circulation while effectively revitalizing facial features and is my favourite part of the whole treatment.

Other spa treatments that are available include body scrubs, body wraps, facials, bath treatments, and waxing.

They also have a section called CHILL that centres around reflexology and acupressure – concentrating on the feet, neck, and shoulders. Perfect for those who have had a long day (or just don’t want to get naked).

After your treatment, you’ll be led to a lounging area where you can enjoy tranquillity further while sipping on some hot ginger and lemongrass tea. Ahh yes, serenity… Well, that’s also where you’ll realize that it’s time to face reality again. But you know what? You’ll feel much more energised, rejuvenated and ready to face every dirty diaper that comes your way.

Swasana is a multiple award-winning establishment, among which the spa clinched the “Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards- Spa of the Year since 2016-2018, ASEAN Spa Service Standard 2019 to 2021, Tripadvisor’s #1 Spa 2018 and many more.

To view Swasana Spa’s signature menu, please  click here

Book your slot via WhatApp at (6017) 216 6508

For further enquiries, please email them  or call  (603) 2147 1089

Operation hours: 10am -10pm

Chronic constipation in children is an emerging public health concern that is commonly overlooked by parents. If your child has fewer than three bowel movements in a week or an unusual poop size or texture, it needs to be addressed.

Sometimes it’s hard to tell what kids are really feeling and whether it is just a passing phase, so we brush it off and dismiss it as being difficult. But this happens because not many parents recognize or are aware of underestimated diseases such as chronic constipation, much less, talk about it openly.
Most Malaysians’ diet is high in carbohydrates and fats, the same goes to our children, who more often than not despise even the sight of any vegetables, and this leads to constipation.

So how can you tell when a child is constipated?

According to Webmd.com, a child who has a bowel movement fewer than three times a week (or less often than he typically does), and whose stools are hard and difficult to pass, is constipated. American Academy of Pediatrics also mentions that any child with stools that are large, hard, dry, and accompanied by painful bowel movements, soiling between bowel movements, or blood on the outside of the stool may have constipation.

Chronic constipation happens when your child’s constipation last for two weeks or more and is absolutely vital that you see your paediatrician.

In Cleveland, a 6-year-old boy has suffered from constipation ever since he was potty training. At 2 years old, the boy had a painful bowel movement and after that, his mother noticed that he stopped having any, she said. She then took him to the doctor who prescribed stool softeners and medicine that ended up not working.

By the time he was 4 years old, his mum would find stools on the floor because it was coming out of his pants when he was running around and playing. According to Dr Reema Gulati of MetroHealth System paediatric gastroenterologist, this was because, after years of holding his stool in, his colon and rectum have stretched and now could not feel when he needed to go to the toilet.

Effects of stool build-up in the body

Impacted or build-up stool in the body can have many effects, which include abdominal pain, loss of appetite and even bladder infections.

But that’s not the end of it. Many sources and gastroenterologist stressed that chronic constipation can lead not just to physical problems but emotional ones too.

Take the case of the 6 years old for example, a child can certainly feel emotionally upset by the “accidents” they have when they soil their clothes. They usually do not have control of this leakage of stool. Their self-esteem and interactions with other people can be affected. Children are often ashamed or embarrassed. They may avoid going to school and even playing with friends.

Because of this, Dr Reema Gulati advises parents of young children, especially in the early stages of potty training- to keep the experience positive and never to reprimand.

Food, Drink & Changes in Habit

Treating and preventing your child’s constipation can be done with some simple changes in their diet and habits.

According to the World Journal of Gastroenterology, dietary fibre is in the forefront of this. You can increase your child’s fibre intake by adding fruits, vegetables, cereals and grains. Some fruit juices such as pear and prune can also be helpful, and you should also make sure your child drinks more water.

Staying active is another factor that might help. Your toddler or child should be getting at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day.

But research in Sweden and Scotland found that the reason behind chronic constipation is not just about food and level of activity but the gut environment. So if you really want to relieve children of constipation, keeping the intestinal environment balanced is another good place to start.

You can get your child’s gut working at a healthy level by giving them food or drinks with prebiotics that stimulates the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut and to also establish a good toilet routine.

Having your child sit on the toilet for 10 minutes at the same time each day helps create a routine and uses the body’s natural tendency to move the bowels.

Disclaimer: Information published in this article and website are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. We do not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurance to the content in this article. Parenthood disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on the information provided.

We all love having that cool, energizing and natural coconut water straight from the fruit itself to beat the heat on a hot and sunny day. But a lot of us Asian mums believe that coconut water might be too “cooling” and only drink it during the last trimester.

During the last trimester, a lot of Asian mums also believe that consuming a lot of coconut water will help “clean” your baby, so that the amount of vernix caseosa (the waxy or cheese-like white substance found coating the skin of newborn babies) is reduced when the baby is born.

Benefits of Consuming Coconut Water During Pregnancy

According to Dr. Hon Sook Kit, Gynaecologist, Gleneagles Medini Hospital, coconut water is rich in electrolytes such as potassium, and magnesium. These electrolytes help to relieve heart burn, constipation, and more importantly, they are necessary for healthy muscle and nerve activities during labour.

Coconut water also fights against dehydration, and replenishes lost fluids as 95% of its content is water. Good hydration helps to maintain good blood flow to the uterus and, indirectly, to the baby.

Studies have also shown that good hydration can result in good liquor volume, which is an important part of the baby’s wellbeing. And when baby is strong and healthy, he or she will be able to withstand the stress of labour much better.

Precautions to take when consuming coconut water

Coconuts are best consumed immediately after they are cut as they are ripe with nutrients then. Do also keep in mind that a ripe coconut can be harmful as it leads to constipation and can also increase a person’s body fat.

It is best to restrict the intake of coconut water to one glass a day in order to prevent an overdose of sodium or potassium. Some doctors may recommend that you stop drinking coconut water two weeks before surgery.

Side-Effects of Drinking Coconut Water During Pregnancy

Generally, coconut water is safe to be consumed during pregnancy by most women. However, just like any other food or beverage, moderation is key as coconut water also contains sodium, which should be avoided if a pregnant woman is suffering from high blood pressure and is on medication for it. Always discuss with your doctor before consuming coconut water if you have blood pressure issues.

Desaru – a coastal town in Johor has been on my “To Visit” list for a while now. It is known for its pristine beach and is easily accessible especially if you stay in Peninsular Malaysia. So while doing some research for our family vacay, I came across Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, which recently opened its doors to the public in December 2019.

I’m familiar with the Anantara brand having visited their hotel in Seminyak and Ubud, Bali. From their great hospitality to amazing rooms and amenities, I knew I just had to make a visit to the brand’s first luxury hotel in Malaysia to see if they are child-friendly as well.

Anantara’s hospitality was immediately prominent the moment we arrived at the resort. We were greeted with sounds from the kompang accompanied by their staff singing the Rasa Sayang song (a beautiful Malaysian welcome, in my opinion!).

We were then led to a beautiful check-in lounge that overlooked their pool and the ocean – a truly breath-taking view that left us at awe. We were offered their signature welcome drink and a strawberry smoothie, which my boy enjoyed, and it was straight to our room for some much need rest.

Stunning Sea Views & Child-Friendly Amenities

It’s good to note that all of the rooms in Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas’ main blocks are facing the sea. We stayed in the Deluxe Sea View Corner Room which has some extra balcony space – perfect for my boys to run around.

The rooms in Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas are also child-friendly. We were very happy when we saw that they had a cot set up in the room and also had a baby bathtub prepared in the bathroom together with toiletries for the kids. Definitely a plus point in my books! Besides that, they also provided a kite and some batu seremban – another very Malaysian element – for some good ol’ family fun.

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Let’s be honest, us parents would do whatever it takes to keep our children safe from all potential dangers be it outdoors, or at home where they spend most of their time in. But unfortunately, no matter how careful we are, accidents may still happen.

But instead of panicking and being clueless about what to do, wouldn’t it be great if we had an idea on how to handle certain accidents and be hands-on ready to come to their first aid?

We’ve put together a list of potential accidents and spoke to Dr Mohammed Ridzuan Abdul Razak, Senior Resident Medical Officer, Emergency Department, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur on how we should handle certain situations.

My baby rolled off the bed and knocked his head!

Accidents like these do happen when you least expect it. If it does happen, here’s what you’ll need to do.

1. Notice if your baby cries immediately. Crying is a good sign that your baby is conscious.
2. Pick him up and console him.
3. If his nose bleeds, stop the bleeding immediately by pinching his nose.
4. If swelling occurs, add some ice cubes into a cloth and place it on the affected area.
5. Monitor your baby for 24 hours and look out for signs that are out of the ordinary, such as vomiting, drowsiness, fits or fever.

If worried or uncertain, always seek medical attention at the nearest clinic or hospital.

My child burned himself with boiling water!

Safety and prevention is of utmost importance when it comes to situations like these. Make sure your child is nowhere near your cooking stove, and ensure that your hot drinks or soup are out of reach. But if it does happen, follow the steps below.

1. Remove your child from the heat source to prevent further injury
2. Cool the burn with cool running water for 10 minutes – do not apply any creams or greasy substances like butter or toothpaste
3. Remove any clothing or jewellery that’s near the burnt area of skin, including babies’ nappies, but do not move anything that’s stuck to the skin
4. Cover the burn with sterile dressing or plaster
5. Don’t break any blisters

Please seek immediate medical attention if the burn covers a large area, affects the face, hands or feet, genital region or joint area. Cover with a clean cling film temporarily. If a burn appears infected, seek help.

My child is having a fever with seizures!

Febril Seizures are convulsion or fits that can happen when a young child has a fever over 38 degrees. The seizures usually last for a few minutes and stop on their own, but can be prevented by keeping your child’s fever down and administrating paracetamol on time, especially on the first two days of fever. If your child gets a fit:

1. Gently lay your child down on a flat surface
2. Maintain their safety – remove any objects from around them to prevent injury
3. Cushion their head using a blanket or pillow, but do not restrain them
4. Make sure their airway is open
5. Once seizure stops, check their breathing, pulse and whether they can respond to you.

It is possible that they may bite their lips or tongue during the seizure, but do not be tempted to put any items into the child’s mouth when they are having a fit.
– Dr Mohammed Ridzuan Abdul Razak

Get emergency medical care if your child:

• Has a febrile seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes
• Has trouble breathing or turns blue
• Isn’t responding normally
• Has another seizure within 24 hours
• If you are worried for any reason

In any situation where you are worried or unsure what to do, always call for help using one of these emergency numbers.

Agency	Emergency Numbers
Police & Ambulance	99
From Mobile Phone	112
Fire	994
Civil Defense	991
Traffic Police	03 2072 9044

Also Read: First Aid Guide: Burns & Bleeding

Disclaimer: This article was produced by Lily Shah for Parenthood Magazine in collaboration with Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur. Information published in this article and website are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. We do not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurance to the content in this article. Thebuxombabe.com disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on the information provided.