With the push for racial equality bustling now more than ever, also comes a bevy of threats to the cause—and tokenism is just one of them.  

What is tokenism?

Merriam-Webster defines it as “the policy or practice of making only a symbolic effort (as to desegregate)”. In other words, acts of tokenism are performative, perhaps to jump on a trend or avoid criticism.

Some obvious examples include influencers posting empty black squares on Instagram without so much as a caption or meaningful discussion; TV shows inserting minority characters into the mix only to define them by their skin colour; political parties putting forward POC candidates in races where they have little to no chance of winning.

Everything about moving to Australia that, to me, was and is riveting and satisfying, but also anxiety-inducing.

It’s no secret that I’m as sentimental as they come. A quick scroll through my Instagram story highlights will reveal an excessive amount of #throwback photos.

So naturally, as I’m on the verge of completing my last semester in uni, I just had to meticulously reminisce my time in Melbourne.

Yesterday, CapitaLand Mall Trust announced that the new Funan mall has successfully obtained its Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP), and is well on track for its opening in Q2 2019.

The mall will be teeming with smart features that shoppers can easily access through the CapitaStar members’ app.

Here are some cool tech (and lifestyle) amenities you can look forward to.

1. Smart carpark

Driving to the mall only to find the carpark packed to the brim is one of the most aggravating first-world problems to exist – only next to forgetting where you’ve parked your car – but it’s a problem nevertheless.

At the new Funan mall, you can easily reserve a parking space on the app prior to your arrival to ease all your worries.

On top of that, you’ll be able to both find your car and pay for parking fees through the mobile app.

2. Carpark wayfinding

There’s no shame in losing your car in a multi-storey sea of vehicles; we’ve all been there, done that.

But therein certainly lies a mountain of frustration, especially when you’ve got a group of impatient peers who are just as clueless as you are.

This is where the CapitaStar members app comes in handy again: all you have to do is refer to it, and voila! Problems, begone. Four-wheel drive, be-found.

3. Rooftop urban farm

Operated by Edible Garden City, the scenic rooftop urban farm, spanning an expansive 4,000 sq ft, is a feature that nature enthusiasts will appreciate.

There are plans for community workshops here, too!

4. Indoor cycling track

As Singapore’s first shopping centre to incorporate cycling lanes, Funan will be bringing cycling amenities to life, including cafes and shower facilities for cyclists to enjoy after their workout.

Cyclists can access these lanes through the ground floor of the building. Perhaps one day, I’ll be able to ride my bike in Pokemon games through buildings, too.

On top of that, English premium folding bike brand Brompton Bicycle will be opening their first Singapore flagship store here – cyclists can test out these bikes along the cycling lane, before deciding on their purchase!

5. Hands-free shopping

To provide shoppers with a hands-free shopping experience, the mall has even deployed automated guided vehicles (AGV) as well as a robotic arm for its 24-hour drive-thru click-and-collect service.

How it works: Simply put in a request at Funan’s automated concierge service; an AGV will pick up your purchases from the store and deposit them at a click-and-collect box at Basement 2.

*Cue Queen song: Is this real life or is this sci-fi movie?*

6. Co-working spaces

Designed by millennials for millennials, it’s no wonder lyf Funan Singapore boasts such a futuristic yet cosy interiors.

With several studio and business suite units to offer, the co-living property will also consist of social zones and flexible co-working spaces, where residents can connect.

These spaces can even be utilised to host activities such as innovation talks, music jamming sessions, and workshops.

Meanwhile, the gaming area features arcade machines and a gif booth.

At the social kitchen, guests can prepare home-cooked meals while mingling with other residents, sharing personal recipes and the like.

7. Craft workshops

The new Funan mall will have an extensive line-up of craft workshops where shoppers can learn new skills and discover hobbies.

Terrarium making, modern calligraphy, and sewing are just a few of the endless possibilities.

8. Open Studios

The futuristic mall will also have an experiential section where shoppers can gain access to the open studios.

All you’ll have to do is book the studios beforehand, as per usual, via the CapitaStar members’ app.

9. Design Ateliers

If you have a soft spot for local boutiques, you can look forward to tenants like Carrie K. and Love Bonito.

10. Live performance theatre

Funan mall will have what every film hobbyist demands: Golden Village.

But if you take a stronger liking to live entertainment, fret not as you’re in luck, too.

You’ll be able to catch some unmissable theatrical performances here, by Wild Rice.

11. Farm-to-table dining

Last but not least, if you’re one to experiment with new foods and dining experiences, this one’s for you.

Spa Espirit Group on level 7 will offer an enticing menu coupled with a farm-to-table dining experience that’s hard to come by in our garden city.

This article was first published on Home & Decor Singapore.

The Ottomani’s latest dining experience, The Nomad Series, is one that will impress even the most refined of tastebuds.

After hosting its first guest chef Jason Licker for The Nomad Series in June, Middle Eastern restaurant and sexy supper club The Ottomani is ready to welcome its second chef Coskun Uysal from Tulum Turkish Restaurant in Melbourne.

For one night only, on 15 August, Uysal will be serving an exciting six-course menu at $130 per pax.

The dining experience includes dishes ranging from the seas to the pastures.

Ahtapot is a delightful pairing of octopus and a robust serving of fermented tarhana soup, complemented with a side of tulum cheese and sucuk crumble.

Uysal’s signature dish, the Cilbir, takes the spotlight with a unique amalgamation of: spinach, poached egg, smoked yoghurt, burnt paprika bitter and pide bead.

Meanwhile, Kuzu combines the sweet, salty, smokey, and crispy; it features grilled lamb rump with smoked eggplant, prune jam and perfectly crisp kataifi chips.

For future lineups, The Ottomani promises to field other respected names like Alejandro Saravia, known for introducing Peruvian flavours to Australia’s food scene; and Ben Spalding, a major player in London’s high-end street food movements.

#01-01A, 48 Peck Seah St. Singapore 079317. Tel: 9231 9316

This article was first published on Epicure Asia.