Introducing the new Freed
Transcription
Introducing the new Freed
VOL.15 JULY 2010 Honda Malaysia News Introducing the new Freed Breakthrough Transcending boundaries with the Skydeck Racing DNA Cultivating motorsports through Twin Ring Motegi Exclusives Get personal with X-Factor’s Fendi Rediscover the heritage of Ban Hoe Seng Redeem exclusive dining privileges PP14768/05/2011(029540) CONTENTS 04 Honda AND YOU We rediscovered the rich heritage of Honda’s authorized dealer, Ban Hoe Seng, when we met up with Ignatius Chew and his wife in Ipoh. Honda AND YOU Accord owner and ex-band member of X-Factor, Fendi, gets intimate with us on life, marriage and pursuing dreams. View his stylish makeover inside. 10 RACING DNA As we explored the development of the Twin Ring Motegi circuit in Japan, we are reminded of Honda’s passion for excellence. How well do 08 06 SKYDECK Powered by a hybrid system and sporty styling, the six-seater Skydeck points towards an exciting future in environmentally responsible vehicles. 12 14 Honda MALAYSIA NEWS Since its launch, the Freed has garnered overwhelming interest. Let us show you the possibilities of our new 4 Seater + IDEAS. LIFESTYLE For a completely memorable meal with friends or family, Ibunda KL offers a fine traditional Malay dining experience. See what exclusive deals we have for you. you KNOW 16-19 your Honda? Honda CAR CARE If you have not been paying attention to your vehicle, it’s about time you do. See our guide to spark plugs and find good maintenance tips inside to care for your Honda vehicle. 20 WHAT’S ON Honda Read about Honda’s showcase at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition and other news. Be a patron of the environment by updating your particulars at www.honda.com.my/profiles to receive electronic copies of With Dreams magazine and browse our archive. You’ll also receive a FREE key chain! Call our Toll Free Number at 1800 88 2020 Operating hours: 9.00a.m. – 5.00p.m. Closed on weekends and public holidays. With DREAMS is a quarterly magazine published by Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced in any form whatsoever without written permission. Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. The information presented in this magazine is compiled from various sources and there is no declaration of responsibility as to legality, completeness and accuracy. EDITORIAL | CHIEF EDITOR Carol Joseph | EDITORIAL TEAM Sunita, Jayaprakash, AM Zaki SPECIAL THANKS | Affendy & Nadia • Ban Hoe Seng Sdn Bhd • FJ Benjamin (M) Sdn Bhd • Ibunda KL We appreciate your feedback. Please send your comments, suggestions and/or questions to: Editorial Team Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (532120-D) Lot 15, Jalan 13/6, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Printed by: Nova Domino Sdn. Bhd. (607395-V) No.11A, Jalan PJU 3/41, Sunway Damansara Technology Park, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. KDN: PQ1780/3804 EDITOR’S NOTE Message From Honda Malaysia A good half a year has passed and we’re glad to have brought you much good news thus far. Thanks to your enduring support and loyalty, we have not only recorded our highest monthly sales in March but the overwhelming trust placed on us helped us emerge a Gold winner in the Automobile category of Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands for the 12th consecutive year! We recently introduced the all-new Freed in April, creating value for a new market segment that is the compact premium multi-purpose vehicle. It is a privilege indeed to be part of the team who worked on bringing the Freed to Malaysia. It allows us, as associates, to continuously drive Honda to be at the forefront of providing value. You can read about the Freed’s advanced features inside this issue of WITH DREAMS. I have been working at Honda Malaysia for seven years and have accumulated much valuable experience in Honda’s unique and dynamic culture. This uniqueness opened up an opportunity for me to lead a marketing team despite my engineering background. As associates, we are empowered by dreams that spur developments in Honda, not just in its products and technologies, but also in its people. You will discover how this passion runs deep in our story on Twin Ring Motegi. Another fundamental attitude that reaffirms the Honda spirit is the challenge to innovate and to initiate a first step towards the future. This is why we pioneered the way in the hybrid market by introducing a green car on the road – the Civic Hybrid. It is equipped with advanced technologies that not only achieves high environmental performance but delivers a spirited driving experience that is unique to Honda vehicles. Personally, I hope to see us expanding our hybrid line-up in the days ahead. To show you our vision towards zero emissions, here’s a revolutionary concept that will change current perceptions of hybrids – the Skydeck six-seater hybrid vehicle. View its desirable features in our Breakthrough article. There is much more to be discovered inside this issue of WITH DREAMS that we hope you’ll find empowering. Do enjoy your read! Mohamed Akkbar Danial Manager, Marketing Department. with dreams | 03 Honda AND YOU: Owner’s Story The well-grounded high flyer who dares to dream “When I set my mind to something, I will do everything I can to achieve it.” So says Syed Affendi Syed Ibrahim or Fendi from X-Factor as he is better known, thanks to his stint in one of the country’s first boy-bands a few years ago. Now a successful Assistant Vice President at a multinational bank in Kuala Lumpur, 33 year old Fendi has always followed his dreams in everything he pursues. His dogged determination has seen him become a successful model, actor, musician and career person, not to mention a loving husband and father. “I believe that anything is possible if you don’t lose sight of your dreams,” says Fendi who along with his wife Nadia Nooraman, were selected for this issue of Honda’s With Dreams Makeover. Indeed for his age, Fendi is the exemplary achiever, but he makes sure that he doesn’t get too caught up in any one thing. “It’s about balancing it out,” he says, adding that he believes life is made up of various stages which one must do their best to excel in. “Now that my career is on its way, I intend to focus on family life.” Fendi and IT Consultant Nadia, 34, were blessed with their first child Sharlez, which means ‘beautiful’ in Arabic, in February last year. He feels that his varied experiences have helped shape his character. “Being in the band and doing those tv dramas and commercials have made me more self-confident which has helped me tremendously,” he shares. An accountant by qualification, Fendi did his fair share of soul-searching before ending up in the IT line, a field he shares in common with Nadia. Fendi is no t one to lose sight of his dreams, whe ther in pursuing music or a professional career. However, she does a lot more travelling as compared to him. “When we were dating, Nadia was often stationed overseas which made for a long, long distance love affair.” Interestingly, one of Fendi’s chart topping songs with X-Factor was called ‘Telefon’. It was a trying time, but they were determined to make it work. They eventually tied the knot in 2006 after he proposed at the top of the Eiffel Tower. “Instead of saying yes, I said thank you,” laughs Nadia. An avid touch rugby player, Fendi makes it a point to get together with his mates every Saturday for a game, which he plays competitively. “I want to teach Sharlez the game as soon as she is old enough, rather than riding a bicycle which doesn’t 04 | with dreams h i and Nadia joke wit All dressed up: Fend shoot. each other during the serve much of a purpose these days,” says the ever practical Royal Selangor Club player. Fendi, who drives a 2.0 litre Accord, persuaded Nadia to get the new Freed although she initially had her eye on the Stream. “But I’m glad I got the Freed as it is spacious and very easy to maneuver and I really love the automatic sliding doors, which comes in handy especially with the baby,” adds Nadia who says she also appreciates the practicality of the ‘walk through’ cabin while her baby daughter enjoys sitting in her own captain seat. And what does the future hold for them? “Baby No.2!” they both say in unison. We wish them all the very best. Fendi and Nadia’s wardrobe is courtesy of Guess, styled by Grace Kue. Make-up and hair by Vicki Tang. Their stylish makeover is made possible by Honda Malaysia. ack fond Bringing b endi F , es ri memo me in the feels at ho udio. st recording The coup le sharing a light moment w hile expre ssing thei preference r of Honda models. Couple: The Loving s Nadia lp he i Fend lace as ck with her ne ady for she gets re the shoot. r ovestory e k a ue l /m niq na myr own urofessio . om ou p a y .c da are eive on to sh o rec oot! .h e ls sh ww chanc u will a photo w a o o d t Y d n on tan ner. er a Log and s a ow keov a d n ay m tod a Ho as with dreams | 05 Honda AND YOU: Dealer’s Story A HERITAGE OF DREAMS MADE REAL W hen Ban Hoe Seng Sdn Bhd was chosen as Honda Dealer of the Year in 2009, its Managing Director, Ignatius Chew knew in his heart that it wasn’t achieved overnight. “We’ve come a long, long way since we became one of the first Honda dealerships in Malaysia,” he says. “It’s good to see all those years of blood, sweat and tears come to fruition.” Indeed, Ban Hoe Seng has a centuryold legacy which began with his grandfather, the late Chew Boon Juan arriving in Malaysia from China in the late 19th century at the tender age of 17 to work as a kitchen assistant at a tin mine at Kampung Kepayang, Simpang Pulai. Boon Juan, with his honesty and good social skills, was then made a cook. “As he had picked up some mining skills as well, Alma Baker, the owner of the nearby Gunung Lano tin mine, soon made him his assistant,” relates Ignatius. Ban Hoe Seng founder Chew Boon Juan. “Being at the right place at the right time is everything and my grandfather was lucky in that sense.” In time, Boon Juan was asked to take over the reins of the so called “Golden Mountain” mine. With enormous wealth generated from the tin mine, he then began to diversify into other businesses such as sundry shops and properties as well as being a rice wholesaler and rubber planter/exporter. “Ban Hoe Seng was formed with the aim of handling the rice wholesale business,” says Ignatius who explains that the name means ‘very harmonious and successful’ in Chinese. After World War II, with the looming communist threat, Boon Juan with the help of his two sons, Choon Siew and Choon Kok, decided it was safer and more productive to conduct their business in urban areas, and seeing a promising future for motorized transport, Ban Hoe Seng began selling European motorbikes and scooters. “It was tough selling these expensive bikes but the experience gained was invaluable,” says Ignatius. This soon led to Ban Hoe Seng successfully applying for the Honda dealership, becoming the main dealer in Perak. With the introduction of the revolutionary Honda Cub C50 in the early ‘60s, the business really took off. “Apart from being affordable, it had new gadgets like turn indicators, which were revolutionary for its time,” laughs Ignatius. By the late ‘60s, the company, now run by the reserved Choon Kok, became the main Honda car dealer in Perak as well. “We initially sold the N360, Life and S600 models but it was only in the ‘70s with the arrival of the Accord and Civic that sales really shot up,” he says. Indeed, sales were so good that in 1984, Ban Hoe Seng sold a record breaking 92 units in a month. By then, the reins of the company had been passed on from Choon Kok to his son Ignatius. And what has been his approach to managing the company? “The training in Bangkok under the charismatic Mitsuro Sato, president of Asian Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in the late ‘80s had a profound impact on me and everyone who attended it. It was a real eyeopener how he ran his brand,” says Ignatius who adds that entering Sato’s showroom was like stepping into a 5-star hotel. “He was a great teacher and we called him Superman.” 1892 1910 1947 1959 1967 1984 Ban Hoe Seng founder Chew Boon Juan arrives from China aged 17 06 | with dreams Ban Hoe Seng was formed to handle the rice wholesale business Ban Hoe Seng begins selling European motorbikes and scooters in Ipoh Appointed as main Honda motorcycle dealer in Perak Appointed as main Honda car dealer in Perak Ban Hoe Seng achieves record breaking 92 vehicles sold in one month Inspired by ‘Superman’, Ignatius began to implement his teachings especially regarding customer service, whereby Ban Hoe Seng’s showroom and service centre were immediately given a facelift for maximum customer comfort. “We also began to focus on customer rapport,” he says adding that he had kept in touch with Sato after the training for extra guidance. uline Hsu and an Mitsuro Sato, Pa Honda Motor ian associate of As ining the Bangkok tra Co., Ltd. during e ey l rea a s that wa session in 1988 delegation. ian ys ala M the opener for The results soon began to show with Ban Hoe Seng being awarded the first Honda Dealer Of The Year award in the early ‘90s as well as a string of other accolades over the years ranging from Customer Service to Technician and Sales Advisor awards, proving that they were on the right track. “Another indication that our customers are pleased is that 90 per cent of them come back for insurance and road tax renewal,” he says. Ignatius Chew, standing 1st from right, and Pauline Hsu, seated with Mitsuro Sato, with Honda’s representatives from Singapore, Malaysia and Asian Honda Motor Co., Ltd. However, Ignatius feels that the sales pitch has changed over the years. “Those days it was all about hard selling but these days it’s more about gentle persuasion and being inquisitive about the customers’ needs. Customers love to buy instead of being sold to,” he opines. What is the secret to their success? “Our employees of course!” he says. Many of the company’s 80 personnel have been with them for over 15 years which gives them a good balance of experience and eagerness. “A customer doesn’t ‘belong’ to any one salesperson. When a customer walks into the showroom, several sales advisors are on standby to assist them. The customer chooses the one he’s most comfortable with,” he says. And what does the future hold? “We intend to focus on after sales support as it directly affects future sales,” he says adding that he is proud to carry on the family tradition and aims to achieve even greater success in the future, something that his grandfather and father will no doubt be smiling about from above. wroom along The Ban Hoe Seng sho nun in Ipoh today. Bai i isur ma Per Jalan Raja 1988 1990 1994 2 personnel attended one week training under Mitsuro Sato in Bangkok Ban Hoe Seng awarded the 1st Honda Dealer Of The Year award From left: Annie Ho, Fiona Chen g, Pauline Hsu an d Ignatius Chew Awarded Best Service Campaign award 1991-1996/ 1994-1997 Wins Honda top technician awards 2004 2009 Runner-up in Honda’s Customer Service Satisfaction award Awarded Honda Dealer of the Year award Wins Honda top sales advisor awards with dreams | 07 Breakthrough The sky’s the limit with the Skydeck six-seater hybrid vehicle If looks could kill… The Skydeck’s front features a long aerodynamic nose with a prominent honeycomb grille flanked by sleek horizontal headlamps. 08 | with dreams Next-generation hybrid packaging The Skydeck’s low floor and low center of gravity allows for better handling and safety while its compact hybrid system is positioned in the centre of the vehicle for improved driving performance. Extra space in seconds As we progress towards a low-carbon society, Honda continues to broaden its range of hybrid vehicles to bring environmentally responsible vehicles to more people. Trailblazing the way in next generation hybrid vehicles is the revolutionary Skydeck, a six seater hybrid concept vehicle that marks yet another milestone in Honda’s pursuance of hybrid technology. “The Skydeck’s compact body contains a flexible and high-utility space for transporting multiple people as well as the tools and equipment for the activities they enjoy,” Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President and Chief Executive Officer, Takanobu Ito proudly announced as he introduced the world to this futuristic vehicle at the Tokyo Motor Show last year. The 3rd row seats of the Skydeck can be folded down easily and the 2nd row is equipped with a unique motorized function that enables it to slide underneath the front seats, offering a large, flat area as utility space. The Skydeck’s futuristic design features a unique, aerodynamic exterior with an ‘extended’ windshield that sweeps back, making up the glass roof of the vehicle, allowing unparalleled views for passengers. On the inside, its minimalist features and spacious layout gives it a stylish yet functional appeal that points towards a freer and more enjoyable way of life. Stylish inside and out Practically designed with tomorrow in mind Advanced features like the easy-to-use, visually intuitive interface on the instrument panel will make an immediate impression with those seeking a new kind of hybrid. Minimalistic and airy design features A unique and sleek feature of this next generation people mover is its unusual scissor-style doors for the front passengers, while the rear is accessed via offset sliding doors that drop down and away from the vehicle as they move rearward, allowing for easy access. Its six seats with thin backs contribute to the open, airy feeling of the cabin while the seat frames, dashboard and lower part of the door panels are wood laden for a classy, stylish feel. with dreams | 09 RACING DNA The NSX-GT had their last run at Honda’s home circuit, the Twin Ring Motegi, during the Motegi GT 250km Race 2009. Visitors can take delight in Honda’s heritage models displayed at the Collection Hall, including the very first Honda F1 race car. A variety of facilities like the Side-by-Side track allows fans to safely experience the excitement of Formula Car racing. 10 | with dreams The environmental impact of this sizeable project was carefully studied to preserve the site at Tochigi Prefecture. Any true race enthusiast would know of Twin Ring Motegi, Honda’s famed racing circuit with mega facilities in Motegi, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. As its name suggest, Twin Ring Motegi has a unique two circuit layout – the Super Speedway, a 2.4km oval course, and the Road Course, a 4.8km road course. The oval course is the only one in Japan and was primarily built with the motivation to nurture Honda’s program in IndyCar® Racing. The idea to build the racing circuit was initiated in the mid 80’s when Honda’s sales employees suggested creating a network of facilities where riders can enjoy their motorcycles. Some brainstorming and numerous assessments later, a decision was made to not only build a race track but one that keeps Honda’s ideals alive – to pursue dreams and spread joy. The company’s then President Tadashi Kume said to the project’s team, “I want you to create a facility of ample scale that can foster our dreams.” With that, the passion shared among a few Honda associates to boost the enthusiasm for motorsports flourished into an investment of sizable scale. The unique dual-course circuit, the 2.4km Oval Course and 4.8km Road Course, gives Twin Ring Motegi its name Twin Ring Motegi finally opened in August 1997 in the eastern district of Motegi-machi in the Haga Gun of Tochigi Prefecture, covering a remarkable 6.6 million square meters – massive enough to fit three Suzuka Circuits comfortably! Serious efforts made to co-exist harmoniously with the locals’ environment lasted through the years and remains a critical reminder of Honda’s ideal in balancing the pursuit of dreams with using natural environments efficiently. A great number of major race series have been held at Twin Ring Motegi and it continues to host international and local racing events till today, becoming a venue where motorsports culture is able to thrive. In addition to that, visitors of all ages are encouraged to experience other driving-related activities, like safety driving courses, go-kart and dirt track racing. Recreational facilities like the Honda Collection Hall, a museum that introduces about 350 pieces of Honda’s legacy in production cars and motorcycles including racing machines; Fan Fun Lab, an amusement complex that promotes Honda’s mobility and environmental culture with various exhibits and amenities; and Hotel Twin Ring all provide visitors a reason to stay and fully immerse themselves in the thrills and excitement that the worldclass venue offers. Today, the goal to cultivate racing talents and grow the motorsports culture in Japan continues to remain an unshakable foundation of the Twin Ring Motegi. The full-size mobility park stands to mirror possibilities of the future and we will always be reminded that Twin Ring Motegi is a story of accomplishment, challenge and Honda’s ultimate symbol of dreams. “I want you to create a facility of ample scale that can foster our dreams.” - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President & Chief Executive Officer, Tadashi Kume, 1983 – 1990 with dreams | 11 Honda Malaysia News 12 | with dreams 4 Seater + STYLE ….and that’s just what a 4 Seater + IDEAS is all about. The Freed is a compact premium mover developed under the concept ‘The freedom to create the perfect lifestyle’. From leisure time family trips to meeting your daily transportation needs, the Freed lets you indulge in whatever you set your mind to by being anything you want it to be, limited only by your imagination. Its exterior design seamlessly fuses a triangular shaped front section with a voluminous square box in the rear, ensuring that the Freed’s aerodynamics is optimized, while featuring a The Freed’s convenient remote entry system allows the opening and closing of its automatic sliding doors with anti-pinch sensors. Its low tailgate allows for easy and comfortable access and cargo loading/ unloading. 4 Seater + SAFETY low-floor and flat roof – giving it a compact body size with a spacious cabin that makes for comfortable seating in all three rows or extra space for cargo in the rear. The Freed offers a host of functionalities to cater to a variety of needs that have been carefully considered in its design such Upper Frame as its ‘walk through’ cabin that allows passengers the freedom Absorbing upper part of impact energy to access any row from any door without having to operate a seat adjuster. What’s more, its one step low floor with grip assist enables children and the elderly to easily ascend or descend from the vehicle with greater ease. And there’s so Main Frame Highly efficient energy absorption Impact Energy Lower Member Preventing misalignment of impact-absorbing vehicle members G-Force Control (G-CON) Technology and Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) help reduce the impact of collision force on the cabin. The Freed also scored an impressive 6 stars in the Japan New Car Assessment Programme (JNCAP). much more. Using the latest Drive-By-Wire technology along with a smooth shifting 5-speed automatic transmission, the Freed’s engine is kept at its most efficient speed range while offering quiet cruising with better acceleration and fuel economy. And as for its performance, its fuel economical 1.5L i-VTEC engine produces an impressive 118PS @ 6,600rpm with a max torque of 146Nm @ 4,800rpm. First in class technologies such as Shift Hold Control and Grade Logic Control holds certain gears on winding roads for better and safer cornering while ensuring constant acceleration and optimum fuel efficiency. With so much detailed thought put into coming up with the ideal compact premium mover, the onus is on you to take it to the next level. Whichever way you utilize it, the Freed offers you an endless array of possibilities. For work or play. For city driving or a weekend getaway. It’s time to set your mind free. 4 Seater + SPACE The Freed’s 3rd row seats are foldable one seat at a time and can be stowed to the side to maximize cargo space. with dreams | 13 LIFESTYLE IBUNDA KL, HERITAGE REDEFINED The private rooms upstairs provide a graceful and relaxed ambience perfect for group dining. 14 | with dreams The concept of Malay fine dining may sound superfluous to most Malaysians because as far as traditions go, we are used to indulging in simple, fullflavoured Malay dishes in our neighbourhood “warung”. At best, fine Malay cuisine is served mostly at top-notch hotels. So when you step into Ibunda KL, primed as a Malay fine dining restaurant, your curiosity will be pleasantly piqued. Fittingly housed in a refurbished pre-war mansion in the heart of the city, its understated elegance evokes the kind of ambience familiar to French fine dining restaurants. But save for a few traditional objet d’art and the waft of familiar spices in the air, you pretty much can’t tell what’s cooking. Indeed, one look at the menu might unearth a trove of familiar traditional dishes although you’ll soon discover that the preparation is anything but. The novelty of cooking here lies in the ingenious blend of both exotic and everyday ingredients that gives it a rich complexity that’s worth its lavish indulgence. The presentation itself is a work of art, thanks to award-winning Chef Zabidi Ibrahim who seems set to lead diners on a culinary journey at Ibunda. If you are craving for fine traditional Malay cuisine, go for the lunch set where a sumptuous platter of their best à la carte is presented in one serving. The portion is recommended for 2 persons but who’s to say one can’t devour every last bite by themselves when the taste is so appealing! Lunch guests can choose between Sajian Tradisional Ibunda, which consists of dishes traditionally served at Malay weddings, and Nostalgia Ibunda with an ample selection that harks back to kampung-styled dishes. There are at least six to eight types of dishes in either sets, served with condiments and rice – all distinctively Malay but something about the way they’re prepared makes it exceptionally appetizing. Choose between the tasty platters of Sajian Tradisional Ibunda and Nostalgia Ibunda for lunch or Santapan Bersaji for dinner. EXCLUSIVE PROMOTION FOR HONDA OWNERS Enjoy a hearty lunch or dinner at Ibunda KL every day! Lunch: RM38 nett per pax Dinner: Order for 10, get 1 FREE @ RM128++ per pax Terms & Conditions: •Redeemable from July – October 2010 •Promotion is not available during Ramadhan •Applicable to residents of Malaysia only Dear Honda owners, To redeem your exclusive dining privilege from Ibunda KL, please bring along an invoice of your Honda service maintenance from the last 6 months as proof of ownership. Only original invoices from a Honda authorised service centre applies. For dinner, patrons can pick from the à la carte menu that includes Ibunda’s splendid array of signature dishes. Standouts include the Gulai Udang, which is braised king prawn and banana drizzled in curry masala on a bed of saffron rice served with dried kiwi chutney, and Ayam Berdaging Hati Itik, a texturally satisfying combination of baked mince meat stuffed with foie gras and served with deep-fried saffron glutinous rice. If you can’t decide what to order, their dinner platter is equally gratifying. For just RM128++ one is served a traditional Santapan Bersaji which consists of an amuse-bouche, soup (chef’s specialty, Ibunda crab soup), six types of well-balanced mains and dessert. For afters, we will keenly pick the black glutinous rice drizzled with durian mousse, topped with macadamia nuts ice cream. The durian flavour surprisingly does not dominate but adds a beautiful depth to the dessert. Ibunda KL exceeds expectations in its take on traditional cuisine – classic comfort food served with a twist. Add that to their flawless presentation and we have a winner. If you are hosting a dinner party, we recommend the private rooms upstairs which are guaranteed to make a grand impression with your guests. Give it a try. Ibunda KL is located at 251 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur. Call Ibunda KL to make your reservation: +603 2148 8488 with dreams | 15 Honda CAR CARE What’s a spark plug? A spark plug serves as a lighter to ignite, via high voltage electrical currents, the compressed air/ fuel mixture within the combustion chamber to drive the pistons in the engine. Why it’s important to have a quality spark plug. Good mixture of fuel and air Good compression Good spark production Proper engine operation Composition of a spark plug. • Terminal Nut • Insulator – High-alumina ceramics give better insulation, heat resistance & thermal conductivity • Corrugation- The ridges extend the insulating surface distance to prevent flash over • Metal Shell – Plated to provide better resistance to high temperature corrosion • Copper Core – Dissipates large amounts of heat quickly to prevent overheating & fouling • Special Powder Filling – Provides good gas tightness and robust construction • Gasket – Prevents any leakage of combustion gases • Special nickel alloy ensures superior heat resistance & durability Ultra-thin iridium alloy 16 | with dreams Why you should use new spark plugs. Used Spark Plugs New Spark Plugs Worn electrodes and carbon deposits on firing ends cause side sparking Correct sparking as the spark jumps straight Fuel is not combusted efficiently, resulting in more hydrocarbon emissions due to improper sparking Fuel is combusted efficiently thus maximizing fuel efficiency, which is better for the environment Why use spark plugs? •Less ‘spark jump’ voltage is required - this can be as much as 5,000 volts less than with standard plug types •Ignition is improved and less strain is placed on the ignition system • Improved ignition/combustion gives better fuel economy, increased power/acceleration and better throttle response •High durability as iridium lasts 5X longer than conventional nickel spark plugs, while producing consistently stable sparking •Superior anti-fouling, anti-corrosion and anti-seizing properties Spark plug maintenance: • Spark plugs are subject to extreme stress from the high voltages, burning gasoline and vibration of the engine which causes spark plugs to eventually wear out and need replacement. • Spark plugs generally should be checked every 8,000 to 10,000 km and should be replaced after every 20,000 / 40,000 for conventional nickel spark plugs or 100,000km for Iridium spark plugs, which are used in all current Honda models. • Your owner’s manual will give you a recommended interval for replacement of your spark plugs and other ignition system components. For more information, ask your Honda authorized service centre personnel. with dreams | 17 Honda CAR CARE Did you know this about your Honda? Maintenance Tips Compiled by Our Experts at Honda Authorised Service Centres Genu ine oil irregu filters wit struc lar folding h tu incre res help t ase f o efficie iltering ncy. Iridium should spark plugs be every replaced at 100 as rec ,000 km ommen ded. Accele rat upon st e slowly ar most e t-up as ngine w ear occurs in the 5 minut first es. e creas r to in In orde bility of your ra the du blades, we wiper adding mend recom ner into the . clea wiper servoir ield re h s d in w For maxim um tyre lifespan, swap front ty res with back one s at ev 10,000 k ery m. r ur ca ing yo Wash 10 days every protect to helps aint. its p s Avoid using tyre an th re that are mo 3 years old, as recommended by ers. tyre manufactur Being in the know helps to keep your car in its best condition. And when the time comes for its scheduled maintenance, no one knows better than Honda. Because we have the right expertise, tools and parts, your Honda will experience a maintenance that’s professional, reliable and most of all, of superior quality. For quality maintenance, make an appointment with your nearest Honda Authorised Service Centre today! Log on to www.honda.com.my for more info. 18 | with dreams How well do you KNOW your Honda? You drive it, sit in traffic with it and go for holidays in it, but are you in tune to your Honda’s needs? Take this quiz and find out! 1 The type of engine oil that my Honda prefers to use is: a) Mineral oil b) Semi-synthetic oil c) Fully-synthetic oil 2 How often do you pump air into your tyres? a) Every 1 to 2 weeks b) Once a month c) My mechanic pumps my Honda up! 3 When I hear a noise coming from my Honda, I… a) What noise? b) Send it in to a Honda Authorised Service Centre immediately c) Attempt to diagnose the noise myself first 4 The best brake fluid for my Honda is… a) DOT HONDA b) DOT 5 / DOT 6 c) DOT 3 / DOT 4 5 What may happen if you put nonHonda genuine coolant into your car? a) I’m not sure, but I think it is not advisable b) Failure or malfunction of cooling system brought on by corrosion c) White smoke will start spewing from my car 6 Which element in a Honda Genuine Spark Plug ensures smoother start-ups? a) Aluminium b) Nickel c) Iridium 7 HAMP is… a) A brand of ham b) Honda Auto / Manual Precautions c) The brand of Honda Genuine Oil Filters 8 lights up When this symbol while I’m driving, my Honda is trying to tell me that: a) It has a flat battery / it’s not charging b) It’s possessed c) There are complications in the engine 9 If I see my temperature meter reaching the Hot level, I should: a) Drive faster so I can reach my destination sooner and seek help there b) Stop my car in a safe spot and let it cool down c) Stop the car, open the bonet and pour water over the radiator 10 On average, how often do you wash your car? a) Every three to seven days b) Every fortnight c) When it looks dirty Count Your Points: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. a) 1 a) 3 a) 0 a) 0 a) 1 a) 0 a) 0 a) 2 a) 0 a) 2 b) 2 b) 2 b) 2 b) 0 b) 2 b) 1 b) 0 b) 0 b) 2 b) 2 c) 3 c) 1 c) 0 c) 2 c) 1 c) 2 c) 2 c) 1 c) 0 c) 1 1 TO 7 POINTS It’s a stranger to me” me Looks like someone needs to pay more attention to their Honda. We recommend sending your car only to a Honda Authorised Service Centre – so even if you are unfamiliar, rest assured our mechanics aren’t! 8 TO 15 POINTS Need to do my homework You know about your Honda here and there. You care but you seldom pay close attention to its little details. We recommend some good old quality time with your car and asking your Service Advisor more questions! 16 TO 20 POINTS Like a buddy To you, your car is not just a car, it is a friend. You believe that it needs to be cared for and in return, it will care for you too. That’s why you strive to give your Honda the best, like quality maintenance and genuine parts. Keep this up! 21 TO 23 POINTS Like the back of my hand Well done! Either you have been peeking at the answers or you really know your Honda! You go for genuine parts only and there’s no two ways about it. The Honda Authorised Service Centre you frequent must be really proud of you! with dreams | 19 WHAT’S ON Honda Honda showcases environmental technologies at Beijing International Automotive Exhibition 2010 At the Beijing International Automotive “To best contribute to the reduction Exhibition 2010, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. of CO2 emissions today, we believe President & Chief Executive Officer, that Honda must prioritize the full- Takanobu Ito announced the company’s scale market penetration of hybrid environmental initiatives by introducing vehicles. Towards this goal, the most near-future environmental technologies, important challenge is to provide a including the fuel cell electric vehicle, wider selection of hybrid models to FCX Clarity, and the battery electric increase the number of customers in powered EV-N. China who can drive hybrid vehicles,” said Takanobu Ito. Leveraging Honda’s strength in three product groups, namely motorcycles, To comply with the increasing fuel automobiles and power products, economy regulations and consumer Honda strives to be the forerunner environmental awareness in China, in the area of environment and energy technologies by making a two hybrid models produced in Japan, the Insight and CR-Z, will be comprehensive commitment to reduce CO2 emissions. This includes not available in the Chinese market before the end of 2012. only making existing products more fuel efficient, but also investing in areas such as solar cells and electromotive technologies. 20 | with dreams Honda wins Gold in Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Honda was recently announced the Gold winner of the Reader’s Digest Trusted BrandsTM proprietary research study for Automobiles category in Malaysia. Winning for 12 consecutive years, Honda Malaysia attributes its favourable standing to its customers for their unwavering trust and loyalty. Speaking on the occasion, Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Toru Takahashi said, “We are pleased to receive the Reader’s Digest Trusted BrandsTM Gold award for Automobiles category in Malaysia. This recognition from the consumers will continue to drive Honda Malaysia in its endeavour to be the most trusted and admired automobile brand En. Rohime Shafie, President & COO of Honda Malaysia receiving the award from Y.B. Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri bin Yaakob, Minister of Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism while Mr. Thomas Moore from Editorial, Asia Pacific Magazines Reader’s Digest looks on. in the country.” Honda completes production of 4-Door CIVIC TYPE R Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. announced in April 2010 that the many customers in Malaysia. However, having evaluated the model company will end sales of the popular 4-Door Civic Type R following based on environmental performance, which is the new method the announcement from Honda Motor Co., Ltd, Japan. of calculating emissions in JC08 mode, as well as current market demands, we believe that the time has Honda Motor Co., Ltd. will discontinue production of come for us to discontinue the 4-door Civic Type R at the end of August, production of the 4-Door Civic Type R.” 2010. Malaysia is the only country outside of Japan to make available the 4-Door Civic The Civic Type R had Type R. achieved a cult status with a huge following Honda Malaysia since its introduction to Sdn. the Malaysian market in 2007. Bhd. Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Toru Takahashi said, “We are Moving forward, Honda will continue to pursue performance cars that feature the highest levels proud that the Civic Type R has fulfilled its of not only driving performance, design and quality but also on mission of providing the joy of driving and joy of ownership to its environmental responsibility. with dreams | 21 L U M P U R K U A L A BODY & PAINT SERVICE CENTRE TEL FA X TEL FA X Angkasa Motor Sdn Bhd 558, Batu 3 1/2, Jalan Ipoh, 51200 Kuala Lumpur 03-6257 0608 03-6257 2915 03-6258 1233 03-6253 3184 Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd 32D-1, Block B, Jalan Chan Sow Lin, 55200 Kuala Lumpur 03-9221 0000 03-9221 1009 – – Kah Motor Co. Body Repair Center Sdn Bhd No. 550-552, Batu 3 1/4, Jalan Ipoh, 51200 Kuala Lumpur – – 03-6259 1120 03-6259 1931 MH Prestige Auto Sdn Bhd 18, Persiaran Dagang, Bandar Sri Damansara, Kepong, 52200 Kuala Lumpur 03-6277 5548 03-6277 5469 03-6277 4569 03-6272 2617 New Era Sales (M) Sdn Bhd 109, Jalan Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur 03-2032 2266 03-2031 8989 03-2032 4423 03-2072 0028 Wisma W Shalihudin 1, No.5, Jln Perusahaan Kiri, Kaw. Perusahaan Ringan Setapak, 53200 Kuala Lumpur 03-4021 2104 03-4025 5116 03-4021 2106 03-4025 5116 No. 171, Batu 3 3/4, Jalan Kelang Lama, 58000 Kuala Lumpur 03-7980 0000 03-7981 9482 – – No. 21-23, Jalan Usahawan 5, Setapak Industrial Area, Off Jln Genting Kelang, 03-4024 2266 03-4024 9320 53200 Kuala Lumpur 03-4024 2266 03-4024 7268 03-4022 8776 Peringgit Sri Motor Sdn Bhd Sri Utama Auto Sdn Bhd Sri Utama BP Sdn Bhd PT 6312, Jalan 2/27A, Wangsa Maju, Mukim Off Setapak, 53300 Kuala Lumpur The Millennium Auto & Carriage Sdn Bhd – – 03-4023 4936 03-4023 7686 2007, Wisma Mofaz, Jalan Damansara, 60000 Kuala Lumpur 03-7728 1361 03-7727 4180 03-7728 8413 03-7722 4698 Wegro Sdn Bhd Lot 4523 (D), Batu 4 1/2, Jalan Cheras, 56100 Kuala Lumpur 03-9130 2288 03-9131 6611 03-9130 9888 03-9130 9922 Roda BB Motor Sdn Bhd 193 & 195, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur 03-2142 5088 03-2141 7125 – – Lot 7576-B, Batu 4 3/4, Jalan Kelang Lama, 58000 Kuala Lumpur – – 03-7983 3230 03-7983 2985 Lot 2847, Jalan Segambut, 51200 Kuala Lumpur – – 03-6253 2066 03-6253 2936 03-2031 5151 03-2031 2008 – – – – 03-4251 5000 03-4257 6813 Weststar Auto Sdn Bhd S E L A N G O R S H OW R O O M ADDRESS Noblekey (M) Sdn Bhd 68, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur 111-A, Jalan Ulu Klang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd Wisma Kah Motor, 339, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, 50100 Kuala Lumpur 03-2698 3358 03-2692 9251 – – Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd No. 99, Jalan Maarof, Bangsar Park, 59000 Kuala Lumpur 03-2282 5585 03-2282 5248 – – Actmar Sdn Bhd Lot 21449, Jln Persiaran Bukit Raja, Bandar Baru Klang, 41150 Klang, Selangor 03-3345 2020 03-3343 2298 – – Global Amity Sdn Bhd No. 2, 3, 4 & 5, Ground Floor, Jalan SR 1/9, Sek 9, Serdang Raya, 03-8945 9508 03-8945 8953 43300 Seri Kembangan,Selangor 03-8945 0946 ext 108/110 – Kosmo Kars Sdn Bhd No. 3, Jalan Pelukis, U1/46, Sec U1, Temasya Industrial Park, Glenmarie, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor 03-5569 2114 03-5569 2259 03-5569 5259 03-5569 9836 Sumber Auto Edaran Sdn Bhd Lot 1A, Jalan Bersatu 13/4, Seksyen 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor 03-7960 2828 03-7955 3773 03-7960 2626 03-7957 8233 Tenaga Setia Resources Sdn Bhd Lot 8229, Jalan 222, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor 03-7957 6611 03-7957 8718 03-7957 8727 03-7957 8718 Lot 792, Persiaran Subang Indah, Taman Perindustrian Subang, 47610 Subang Jaya, Selangor 03-5636 1100 03-5638 9248 03-5635 8988 03-5635 7372 No. 2, 3 & 4, Lot 378, Jalan Ulu Kelang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor 03-4252 8061 03-4252 8264 – – No.11 & 12, Lot 378, Jalan Ulu Kelang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor – – 03-4251 3883 03-4257 3883 8 & 9, Jalan Kenari 5, Bandar Puchong Jaya, 47100 Puchong, Selangor 03-8075 5616 03-8075 3640 – – No. 1, Jalan Bandar 5, Pusat Bandar Puchong, 47100 Puchong, Selangor – – 03-5882 8282 03-5882 6682 03-3342 0272 03-3342 1682 – – – – 03-3341 0049 03-3342 5703 03-5510 0099 03-5513 0099 – – – – 03-7845 8837 03-7845 8836 USJ Car Express Sdn Bhd Imavest Sdn Bhd Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd P E R A K SERVICE CENTRE COMPANY NAME SHOWROOM STATE AUTHORISED Honda DEALERS CONTACT LIST Nanyang General Enterprises Sdn Bhd 31, 33 & 35, Jalan Batu Tiga, 41300 Klang, Selangor Lot 71 & 72, Jalan Batu 3, 41300 Klang, Selangor Shared Auto Sdn Bhd 17 &19, Ground Floor, Block 2, Worldwide Business Park, Jalan Tinju 13/50, 40675 Shah Alam, Selangor No. 2, Jalan Saujana Indah 5, Taman Saujana Indah, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor Delima Kinta Sdn Bhd Lot 10853, Batu 2 1/2, Jalan Simpang, 34000 Taiping, Perak 05-8483 888 05-8483 266 – – Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd No. 45, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, 30100 Ipoh, Perak 05-5273 501 05-5273 575 05-5273 500 05-5273 575 Sendi Auto Sdn Bhd Tian Siang Square, 32000 Sitiawan, Perak 05-6920 028 05-6920 828 05-6922 880 05-6917 399 Tian Siang Auto Care Sdn Bhd No. 99, Jalan Kuala Kangsar, 30010 Ipoh, Perak 05-5061 600 05-5064 600 05-5062 600 – 22 | with dreams K E D A H Ban Hoe Seng Sdn Bhd Lee Motor Alor Setar (Car Div) Sdn Bhd Lee Motor Alor Setar (Car Div) Sdn Bhd Magna Speed Sdn Bhd P U L A U P I N A N G Yooi Cars Sdn Bhd TERRENGGANU KELANTAN P A H A N G NEGERI SEMBILAN MELAKA J O H O R SABAH SARAWAK BODY & PAINT SERVICE CENTRE S H OW R O O M ADDRESS SERVICE CENTRE TEL FA X TEL FA X 05-2413 433 05-2552 320 – – – – 05-2532 001 05-2537 652 12 MBAS 1066, Jalan Teluk Wanjah, 05200 Alor Setar, Kedah 04-7311 766 04-7332 722 – 04-7326 313 Lot 51, 16C-9, Jalan 4/5 Miel, Fasa 1, Kawasan Perusahaan Bakar Arang, 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah 04-4210 116 04-4229 119 – – 357 & 358, Jalan Petaling 10, Taman Sri Petaling, 09000 Kulim, Kedah 04-4959 595 04-4909 595 – – Lot 964, Jalan Padang Matsirat, Kampung Yooi, Mukim Bohor, 07100 Langkawi, Kedah 04-9557 002 04-9559 007 – 04-9555 007 14-20, Jalan Raja Permaisuri Bainun (Jalan Kampar), 30250 Ipoh, Perak Lot 31216A, Jalan Mariamman Lane 2, Off Sungei Pari Road, 30250 Ipoh, Perak Formula Venture Sdn Bhd Lot 79, Jalan Bagan Jermal, 12300 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang 04-3244 166 04-3333 946 04-3106 699 04-3231 729 Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd 124-A, Lengkok Sg. Pinang, 10150 Pulau Pinang 04-2815 100 04-2815 409 04-2821 000 04-2821 100 Motoria Sdn Bhd 17, Jalan Chain Ferry, 13700 Prai, Seberang Prai Tengah, Pulau Pinang 04-3995 313 04-3992 139 04-3905 313 – JM Motor Venture Sdn Bhd Lot 2632 & 2633, Jalan Song Ban Kheng, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang 04-540 3399 04-530 6393 04-540 3377 – Vivahill Auto Sdn Bhd 1-1-8, Krystal Point 2, Jalan Tun. Dr. Awang, 11900 Sungai Nibong, Pulau Pinang 04-6441 111 04-6442 121 – – – – 04-6440 000 04-6442 323 LABUAN SHOWROOM STATE P E R A K COMPANY NAME Lot 63, Pesara Kg. Jawa, Taman Perindustrian Bayan Lepas, 11900 Pulau Pinang Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd 25-B, Lebuh Farquhar, 10200 Pulau Pinang 04-2638 244 04-2637 152 – – Ban Chu Bee Sdn Bhd 5488, Jalan Sultanah Zainab, 15050 Kota Bahru, Kelantan 09-7445 893 09-7484 593 09-7441 897 – Syarikat Tan Eng Ann Sdn Bhd 686, Jalan Sultan Mohamad, (Gong Kapas) 21100 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu 09-6221 796 09-6233 796 – – – – 09-6221 996 09-6229 396 25-D, Jalan Bukit Kecil, 21100 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu Honhin Auto Credit Sdn Bhd A57-A59-A61, Jalan Teluk Sisek, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang 09-5177 235 09-5178 940 09-5177 102 09-5178 005 Macinda Auto Sdn Bhd Lot 47/A, Kawasan Perindustrian Semambu, 25350 Kuantan, Pahang 09-5687 000 09-5669 000 09-5688 000 – Chuan Thye Motor Sdn Bhd C311 & C312, Jalan Kuantan, 28000 Temerloh, Pahang 09-2963 308 09-2965 613 – – – – 09-2962 991 09-2961 991 H31-32, Taman Muhibbah, 28000 Temerloh, Pahang Wanija Classic (M) Sdn Bhd 125A & 125B, Jalan Senawang, Kawasan Perindustrian Senawang, 70450, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan 06-6794 770 06-6786 764 – – Ban Lee Heng Motor Sdn Bhd No. 381, Jalan Haruan 2, Oakland Industrial Park, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan 06-6017 815 06-6017 130 06-6017 808 06-6017 130 Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd No. 88, Jalan Semabok, 75050 Melaka 06-2833 988 06-2840 200 – 06-2811 116 Haslita Motor Sdn Bhd 12-A, Jalan Buloh Kasap, 85000 Segamat, Johor 07-9313 822 07-9310 986 07-9322 866 – Iptimas Motor Sdn Bhd No. 1, 2 & 3, Jalan Emas, Taman Kluang Jaya, 86000 Kluang, Johor 07-7730 924 07-7739 200 07-7727 600 – 50, 52 & 54, Jalan Kundang 2, Taman Bukit Pasir, 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor 07-4327 890 07-4314 202 07-4315 768 07-4328 790 K.M. Lim Motor Sdn Bhd Sutera Auto Sdn Bhd No. 1-H, Jalan Bunga Ros, Majidee Baru, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor 07-3321 888 07-3338 070 07-3381 222 07-3332 188 Syarikat Motor GS Tay Sdn Bhd 315, Batu 1 3/4, Jalan Bakri, 84000 Muar, Johor 06-9522 855 06-9527 669 06-9537 878 – Yong Ming Motor Sdn Bhd 241-241B, Jalan Skudai, 4 1/2 Miles, Tampoi, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor 07-2351 717 07-2329 993 – 07-2387 858 Wang Loo Motor Sdn Bhd Lot 2556 & 2558, Jalan Raya, Saleng 81400 Senai, Johor 07-5982 288 07-5985 588 07-5983 388 07-5986 688 Boon Siew (Borneo) Sdn Bhd 62A, Mile 5 1/2, Jalan Tuaran, 88805 Inanam, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah 088-421 770 088-421 719 088-420 996 – Heng Ho Hing Co. Sdn Bhd 55, Krokop Road, 98000 Miri, Sarawak 085-436 746 085-418 876 – – Jimisar Corporation Sdn Bhd 88, Lorong Sherif Masahor 3, Jalan Tun Jugah, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak 082-459 322 082-452 322 – – Jimisar Motors Sdn Bhd Lot 1859-1860, Block 18 Seduan Land District, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak 084-210 198 084-214 978 084-217 578 – Premier Motor 2KM, Jalan Tun Mustapha, 87020 Labuan, F.T 087-412 282 087-416 808 087-415 522 – with dreams | 23