While the Interwebs is a veritable minefield of information, the sheer amount of information there can often lead to hidden gems staying, well, hidden. While you probably visit time-sucks like Reddit and Buzzfeed daily, in the occasion of Malaysia Day, we decided to cast the spotlight on local websites every Malaysian should know. Covering the gamut of politics, music, fashion, news and personal essays, here are 10 websites to add to your daily reading roll now.
The Wknd
Link: www.the-wknd.com
The antithesis to local radio stations that have overplayed Top 40 on rotation, The Wknd (pronounced The Weekend) is the platform where local indie and alternative music thrives. This Malaysian-made website, who extends its reach to the Southeast Asia music scene, never skimps on delivering quality acts and produced sounds.
Curasian
Link: www.curasian.com
If Thought Catalog had a Malaysian counterpart, this would be it. Launched in February 2013, this fairly recent website features curated writings of life, memories, moments and thoughts with an Asian/Malaysian twist from talented writers. Expect thought-provoking articles from the heart with a dose of occasional laughter.
TimeOut KL
Link: www.timeoutkl.com
While some might argue that a website that is a subset of a magazine that originated from London has no place on this list, we defy you to find any other website that covers quite so comprehensively the mother hub of Malaysia. From event listings to restaurant reviews and interviews with top country folk, here’s the modern day encyclopedia of KL, updated daily for your benefit.
Venusbuzz
Link: www.venusbuzz.com
When it comes to female-skewed lifestyle websites, Venusbuzz takes the cake with its timely reporting of local and international news, trends and viral happening. The often bite-sized offerings make for easy consumption to stay updated and a particular favourite is their unabashed championing of all-things female, from manicure tutorials to Cosmopolitan-style coverage of sex and relationships.
The Malaysian Insider
Link: www.themalaysianinsider.com
The go-to for Malaysians who seek alternative news sources, The Malaysian Insider, has carved a niche for themselves as the definitive word in unbiased reporting. While regular news outlet contents are included here, such as business, sports, technology and showbiz, it is the political coverage, particularly local, that makes this site a must-visit.
FashionValet
Link: www.fashionvalet.com
As one of the first multi-label e-commerce websites in Malaysia, FashionValet has helped shape the shopping habits of local women emphasizing variety and ease of use. Growing from strength to strength since its inception in 2011, the website now boasts over more than 200 designers across Southeast Asia.
More Than Good Hooks
Link: www.morethangoodhooks.com
Do you ever wonder how that that one musically connected friend of yours knows all about the latest touring bands and artistes in KL? Chances are he or she has More Than Good Hooks on her Google Reader. This locally made music community with an international eye is always quick to update with touring news happening across Southeast Asia, to the delight of music lovers across the seas.
Masses
Link: masses.com.my
Sharing a similar affinity for sneaker culture, streetwear fashion, hidden design gems, and unique artistic endeavours, Masses could very well be our local answer to Hypebeast. But what makes Masses rise above being a mere copycat is their undying devotion to the “Malaysia Boleh” spirit. While international brands do get a mention, the site’s content is predominantly local in focus. And really, how can anyone fault the celebration of homegrown talent?
Loyar Burok
Link: www.loyarburok.com
For those requiring a crash course in the socio-political scene in Malaysia, look no further than Loyar Burok. While the content may seem heavy, the tongue in cheek style of writing ensures that the overall reading goes over light while packing in a wallop of information. It’s required reading particularly during election time as they explore the flip side regarding local politics.
The Other Popfolio Network Titles (#BetterCities, Poskod.my, Popteevee and Uma & Joe at the Movies)
Link: betterciti.es, poskod.my, www.popteevee.net, umaandjoe.com
While we may be accused of cronyism, it’s hard to deny the impact of our sister titles under the Popfolio Network. Creating and curating some of the most original content from and about Malaysia, crossing lifestyle, fashion, culture and news, these sites offer a unique perspective of the country from coast to coast. Haunted houses, literacy rates, transgendered communities and scathing reviews of local movie productions, no topic is taboo in the Popfolio Network and we’re all the better for it.
Bonus: Gumball Mag
Link: gumballmag.com
Barely a day old, make no mistake you’re going to want to keep this website bookmarked. This lifestyle platform aims to inspire and create conversation amongst readers through music, style and culture. Behind it are the duo of Miranda and Kevin Yeoh, who previously cut their teeth in a wide range of editorial publications including Juice and the now defunct Junk, which is why we’re sure it’ll be a knock out!