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Malay Magic
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By: Judy Chapman, Issue 30 - Autumn 2007
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(Shangri-la Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, Penang)
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It’s the ornate rooftops that catch my eye first. From the hotel room at the newly opened Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang, through the Rain trees, I glimpse a cluster of stupa-like shapes gleaming in the morning sun. This is the resort’s impressive spa. Entrance to the spa sanctum is via a walkway surrounded by green bamboo leaves. Therapists in saffron coloured sarongs glide by and the aroma of sandalwood hits my nose. In one radiant moment, I’m reminded that the best spas in the world offer more than just a treatment – it’s the entire journey that counts. I’ve long been a fan of the Chi spas and this creation, the first five star spa on the island of Penang, is no exception. The way the tea light candles flicker against latticed sliding doors, the scent of incense, stones carved by monks, and Buddhist singing bowls all remind me of ancient temples visited in Nepal. The spa menu is elegant too. The creators of Chi called upon experts from the Himalayan mountain region to share their wisdom and medicines, yet what makes this special is that they have added inspiration from Malay’s own healing culture. I opt for the Malay inspired Rasa Asmaradana since I’m in the country of its origin. As spa manger, Kelly Shaw points out, this offering has been cocreated with Malay healers and may well deepen my appreciation of this culture. The spa itself is a village of eleven spa suites set in a garden. There’s also a fabulous yoga temple for retreats. Original hand-beaten copper pots for pouring milk into the outdoor bath sit patiently as I slip into a lush robe made in Kashmir. I sink my feet into a bowl of warm water; take a sip of pandan tea from an exquisite Jade green cup, and the magic unfolds. The ritual begins with a steaming herbal pouch filled with a concoction of local herbs pressed gently upon specific areas of my body to melt away muscle pain and tension. It works. A traditional Malay style massage made with local aromatics of nutmeg and sandalwood oil is bestowed upon me and I depart far more rejuvenated than after most spa treatments. Step outside and into the fragrant air of Penang and you’re bound to feel even more recharged. The island is renowned for its spice life, and in fact, nutmeg is their largest export. Recently residents have started restoring the colonial building and shop houses making Penang the new ‘hot zone’ of Malaysia. But as the sun descends, there’s no place else to be but back at the spa. As I lie down in preparation for a luxurious facial, the therapist slowly closes the curtain to the world outside. A Tibetan bell sounds in the distance and I’m back there, in the Himalayas, where it all began.
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