How You Can Prepare for Future Inflation

Zakwan Shah
December 29, 2024
3 min
As parents, we may often worry about how rising prices will affect our family's wellbeing and happiness.

Money, after all, makes the world go round, unfortunately.

As inflations come and go, our income may remain stagnant.

Prices of things and services skyrocket and we are slowly losing the ability to afford them.

That's why it's always to think about the future, and how we can continue to provide for our family, without spiraling into abject poverty. Or juggling multiple jobs and side hustles.

At the end of the day, it's not about striving for ostentatious wealth, but a considerable rainy day nest egg that can keep you and your family financially afloat for years on end.

Here's how to start planning for the next inflation.

Commit to a Savings Plan

Financial experts always advice us to start a savings plan. But many of us may not even know what that is.

In simple terms, a savings plan is simply a way of optimising your spending to better save more money, i.e. creating a budget.

In a previous Money-Smart Mama episode, financial expert Ritchie Lim proposes using the '6 Jar Method'.

It involves allocating percentages of your monthly income to 6 specific category of needs. 30% for rent/mortgage, 20% for household needs, 10% for entertainment, etc.

This ensures you never go over your budget. Money tracking apps can also help with this.

Maintain Your Financial Health

We may often think we have healthy spending habits, and that we manage our wealth adequately.

But if you really take a second to track your expenses, this may often be the opposite.

You may end up with outstanding payments, installment contracts, student loans and goodness knows what else.

So, ensure that you take care of these first before adding more responsibility under your belt that you can't afford.

This means no taking out personal loans unless absolutely necessary.

And most importantly, no credit cards.

Not unless you want to accumulate life-ruining debt (plus interest) and possibly getting blacklisted for years.

Live Below Your Means

Make a habit of always being thrifty.

Avoid going out to lavish restaurants or going on ridiculous shopping sprees.

Learn to make artisan coffee at home using cheaper ingredients instead of buying your daily cup of coffee each morning.

These expenses will often pile up without you noticing. Especially if you don't have a savings plan to track where your money goes.

Which is all the more reason to start taking your finances seriously, especially if you want to save enough to survive the next inflation.

Stick to Fixed Rates

Fixed rates arrangements refers to payments or fees that stay the same despite any currency fluctuations.

This means you still pay the same amount of money for the same level of service.

Which can be something people overlook when signing up for loans, installments, rents or mortgages.

Many (unethical) people may raise their charges during inflation to maintain profit, which means more expenses from your end.

But with a fixed rate contract, they can't willy-nilly raise prices, not without incurring some legal repercussions.

Try Some Investing

You've probably had many close acquaintances and family members recommend ASNB, ASN, ASM, etc. Those popular investment options that everyone seems to swear by in recent years.

Unfortunately, these long-term investments don't offer fast profit, or overnight wealth.

You'll need to wait 5 to 10 years to truly see any money being made.

But most people take this as win and just sort of forget about the money as something they can enjoy in their retirement years.

However, for many of us, this is not very practical.

You can of course, play with stock, bonds and even gold, but these are relatively high risk, labour intensive and time consuming.

If you want more immediate returns on your capital, you can try Forex (foreign exchange trading).

But keep in mind, these investment strategies do come with a steep learning curve.

So, remember to do your research and start small before cashing in on thousands of ringgit.

Preparing for the Future

Having enough money for the future means that you don't have to sacrifice comforts and luxuries.

But some of us may often misunderstand what those things mean.

It's not weekend getaways to the Bahamas or 10-course 5-star meals.

It can be as simple as running water, electricity, air-conditioning, a nice house, working Internet, good clothes and petrol.

Yes, those are luxuries as well.

Important, every day things we may take for granted until an inflation rolls around and we start to really buckle under the weight of rising prices.

So, prepare in advance, mummies and daddies!

There will be plenty more inflations in our future; let's plan ahead so we can weather through them in one piece.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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Spa in KL: Pamper Yourself with a Relaxing Getaway at Our Top 5 Stress Melters

Fahri Ahmed
November 08, 2022
4 min
It's been a long day. You've dealt with the kids, worked all day, and now you just want to relax. However, you know watching TV just won't cut it for you today. So, where can you go to get some peace and quiet? If you are in the city, perhaps a Spa in KL.

Several Spas offer services to help you unwind. Here are the five best Spas in KL for stress-ridden working mums and homemakers.

Spa Village in Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur - Best Luxury Spa in KL

Image credit: Ritz Carlton Website

With its luxurious Spa treatments and beautiful views, Spa Village is a hidden gem for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. While nestled within the posh Ritz Carlton in KL, this luxe retreat pampers its clients on a private tropical terrace. Talk about a getaway!

Give yourself the ultimate treat with Spa Village's 90-minute Sensory Exploration package. Let a trained staff member guide you through a sensory relaxation journey that will melt your worries away.

In addition to the soothing massage, enjoy beautiful views of lush greenery from the outdoor nap gazebos. It’s so dreamy that you might come back for more even before you leave!

Price: Starting from RM450 up to RM1,750
Address: The Ritz-Carlton, 168, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact no: +60183409034
Website: ritzcarlton.com
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Spa in Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur - Best Couple Spa in KL

Image credit: Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur Instagram page

Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience at The Spa. This world-class luxury Spa in KL houses six single and two couples' treatment rooms. In addition, the place is decked out in earthy tones in warm lighting—you'll be smitten after just one visit!

Choose from an enticing array of treatments ranging from the traditional (e.g., Malay massage) to contemporary (jet-lag treatment).

Psst! The Romance of Rose treatment is highly recommended for couples who want a romantic pampering experience. The scent of ground rose petals combined with natural sea salt makes for an experience that will leave both of you feeling rejuvenated.

Price: Starting from RM200 to RM1,460
Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Contact no: +60321798772
Website: mandarinoriental.com
Facebook page: Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur
Instagram page: Mo_kualalumpur
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)

Hammam Spa in Publika Shopping Gallery - Best Hammam Experience in KL

Image credit: Hammam Spa KL Website

The Hammam Spa in KL is a place of serenity and beauty. While brightly-hued tiles and copper lanterns adorn the walls, carved woodwork adds an Arabian touch to this charming Spa.

Hence, this is the perfect place for you to wash the fatigue away with a traditional 45-minute Hammam and Gommage. In this massage, a soothing scrub using mittens is applied to every inch of your being. As a result, it leaves you feeling invigorated!

However, a word to the wise: This type of massage is not so ideal for shy people.

In addition to Hammam Spa’s self-care package, special packages for couples and brides-to-be are also available there. So, all the more reason to return to this Spa again and again, right?

Price: Starting from RM118 to RM788
Address: Publika Shopping Gallery, Jalan Dutamas 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Contact no: +60362117877
Website: hammamspas.com
Facebook page: Hammam Spas
Instagram page: hammamspa.my
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

HealthLand - Best Affordable Spa Massages in KL

Image credit: HealthLand Website

With various outlets in KL and Selangor, HealthLand is the go-to for affordable massages. Do you need a great massage without the usual accompanying scrubs or facials? Then this is the place for you!

Their signature Lanna Foot Treatment is an instant hit with guests. It is 60 minutes long, with prices starting at RM58 only! For a small additional fee of RM10, you can also get their full Thai massage.

In addition, lovers of essential oils can avail themselves to aromatherapy treatments in this Spa in KL.

Check out which HealthLand outlet is closest to you.

Price: Starting from RM58 up to RM208
Address: No 1-2, Jalan 1/116B, Kuchai Entrepreneur Park, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Website: healthland.com.my
Facebook page: HealthLand
Instagram page: healthlandmy
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

AKMA Spa in Setiawangsa - Best Affordable Spa in KL for Expecting Mums

Image credit: AKMA Spa Facebook page

What's more relaxing than a Spa? A relaxing treatment centre that doubles as a salon. This Spa in Setiawangsa offers everything you need for some well-deserved "me" time.

Want to get a massage?
Check!
Fancy a Collagen Facial Treatment?
You've got it!
Makeup services?
You might as well!

Moreover, this Spa is a treat for new moms and moms-to-be. They can experience the hugely enticing pre-natal and post-natal massage packages on offer. So, now husbands know exactly what to gift their lovely expectant partner.

Price: Starting from RM49
Address: No. 268A, Jalan Bandar 12, Taman Melawati, 53100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact no: +60341629724
Website: akmaspa.com.my
Facebook page: AKMA SPA
Instagram page: akmaspa
Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Rejuvenate at a Spa in KL, Mums!

This rounds up the five best Spas in KL for an incredible, relaxing experience. Whether you're looking for a luxurious couples' massage or an affordable no-frills treatment, these Spas have got you covered.

So, go ahead and book your appointment for your favourite Spa in KL, mums. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it!

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5 Amazing Girls Bedroom Ideas for Your Princess

Fahri Ahmed
December 30, 2022
3 min
Decorating a room is jumping into a pool of imagination. For girls, the variations depend on age, room capacity, personal preferences, etc.

We tend to underestimate our girls' choices. However, in the age of social media, their creativity sometimes surpasses parents' experiences.

So, here we will discover some of the age-appropriate girls bedroom ideas.

Fairy Tale Decor for Newborn

Image credit: Pexel

The first thing that comes to mind when you think about your baby girl's room is a decor fit for a princess.

The wall colour can be a single or combination of pink and white, and the curtains can be stitched with feathery laces.

All furnitures like the closet, wardrobe, side table and baby cot can be vintage style in milky white to compliment the fantasy look. There can be a small, round table with two sitting chairs beside a window to overlook the scenery outside.

Windows could be opened during the daytime so that sunlight could pass through.

However, for the night, stick a few radium star stickers on the ceiling. They will light up in the dark, letting your baby feel like she is sleeping under the stars.

How cool of a girls bedroom idea is this, right?

Multicoloured Theme for Toddlers

Image credit: Freepik

The primary essential theme for toddlers is that the floor must be carpeted since they typically love to crawl or take baby steps. Besides, this is the age when toddlers start identifying colours and shapes.

So, girls bedroom ideas for this particular age group should combine multiple bright colours of different patterns. They can be pink-purple or sky-blue-sea green, or orange-peach, for example.

Additionally, you can place a storage box in the corner of the room for your toddler’s soft toys. In addition, a low-lying bookshelf can be ideal for your little one’s picturesque books.

Furthermore, use twinkling multiple LED laser lights on one side of the wall to create an incredible viewing experience for your little angel.

Fun-Loving Concepts for Kids

Image credit: Pexel

Fun is different for each child. So, when thinking girls bedroom ideas for your daughter, decorate the place according to her personality.

Usually, the age of being an absolute mess starts with playing with dirt, water, or colour. If your little one is of that age, then you may consider decorating her room with playful patterns like polka dots or wallpaper scenery.

However, if your girl loves playing board games like Monopoly, Ludo or riding a tricycle, bicycle, or skating, consider making a separate compartment to store her favourite items.

And for a kid with infinite love for pets like birds and cats, you may need more space. So, a balcony beside her room can be an added benefit to making a home for her pets.

Study-Spirited Theme for Growing Kids

Image credit: Pexel

When your kid starts going to school, she may slowly grow out of her fondness for plushies and toys. She might prefer a change in her bedroom to accommodate her new lifestyle. So, think of girls’ bedroom ideas that tap her academic spirit.

Place dressing and study tables with desk lamps for your angel. Also, put bedside lamps with alarm clocks beside her bed to help her wake up on time for school and studies.

If two or more siblings are sharing the room, you can place a bunk bed to save space as well.

In addition, you can build wall-fixed cabinets so that your kid can store her growing belongings easily.

Bold Interior for Teens

When a girl's transformation begins, her raging hormones may start acting up. You have to remind yourself that your baby is not so little anymore.

She has her own sense of choice and preference. So, consult with her on what type of girls bedroom ideas she prefers for her room.

You may paint the bedroom in bold colours with colour contrast for bedsheets and curtains.

Also, girls these days are more tech-savvy. So, make room for your daughter's ultra-cool gadgets.

In addition, the walls can have her favourite quotations or abstract paintings to reflect her future goals.

Pick Your Ideal Girls Bedroom Ideas

Image credit: Pexel

Decorating a girl's bedroom is a wholesome experience because choices, emotions and feelings are considered to put thought into action. You will always think the best for your child.

However, do remember to take your baby’s personality and choice into consideration when putting your bedroom ideas into action, mummies!

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Our Favourite Baby Chairs in Malaysia for Family Meal Times

Marianne Lim
November 23, 2022
4 min
Is your baby showing interest in the food you’re eating? It may be one of the signs that they’re ready to start solids and it’s time to start preparing for this new milestone! Besides baby food and baby bibs ready, you’ll want to get a good baby chair for eating too as a proper sitting posture is important for a comfortable feeding experience. The highchair should support your baby well so they sit upright and not be in a reclined position or slipping down. Here are some of our top picks for baby chairs so our little ones can join in during family meal times.

Quinton Go Berry High Chair

Even though we don’t usually use baby chairs for newborns, the Quinton Go Berry is a two-in-one seat that reclines so you can keep your newborn safe while you have your hands free to do things like enjoy your meal! With 7 height positions and 5 recline angles, it’s convenient enough to suit any situation you may encounter. The roller wheels make it easy to move around your home, while the Go & Stop system ensures that siblings won’t be able to push it while baby is in it. The Go Berry can also be folded flat for storage. 

Features:

• Can be used as recliner from newborn


• 7 height positions


• 5 reclines


• Roller wheels to move around


• Can be folded for storage

Price: RM619

Where to Buy: Motherhood.com.my

Jellymom Wise Chair

The Jellymom Wise Chair comes with a removable headrest to support babies as young as 3 to 5 months old. It also has a tray for babies to explore their food and learn to self-feed. Use it on the floor or attach it safely to your dining table for baby to join you for meal times. 

Features:

• Removable headrest to support your baby's neck


• Comes with removable tray


• Put on seat at table or use on floor

Price: RM377

Where to Buy: Motherhood.com.my

Evenflo Switchup 3 in 1 Convertible High Chair

The Evenflo Switchup baby chair is made with active, independent toddlers in mind. It grows with your child, so you can use it from when they start solids until they’re big enough to sit on their own at the table. It’s simple to adapt through the stages, going from a full-size mealtime high chair, to mini meal chair lowered to the floor for when your child is more independent and wants his feet on the ground. It also converts to a separate playtime table and chair for your independent kiddo ready for snacks, crafts, and friends.

Features:

• 3-point harness


• Convertible to playtime table & chair


• Detachable tray, food-grade PP material


• Stable & non-slip


• Removable & washable cushion

Price: RM299

Where to Buy: Motherhood.com.my

Apramo Flippa Dining Booster

Do you dine out often and find baby chairs in restaurants to be less than satisfactory? This Apramo Flippa Dining Booster is a convenient solution that will make mealtimes together more pleasant. It is lightweight and folds flat easily in three simple steps. Just pack it into its travel bag and you’re ready to go!

Features:

• Lightweight and travel-friendly


• Folds in three easy steps


• 4 rubber feet to easily adjust to different heights
  

Price: RM199

Where to Buy: Motherhood.com.my

Bubbles 2 in 1 High Chair

Get the flexibility of feeding your child at different heights. Whether to join the family for a meal at the table, or a picnic on the ground, baby will have a good time feasting with everyone. This high chair has a compact fold for easy storage, and a dishwasher-safe tray for ease of cleaning. 

Features:

• Recommend from 6 months to 3 years old (Max 15kg)


• Fold compactly for easy storage


• Dishwasher-safe detachable tray


• Adjustable height

Price: RM239.90

Where to Buy: Motherhood.com.my

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Which Ipoh Restaurant is a Must-Have on Your Bucket List?

Fahri Ahmed
November 08, 2022
4 min
Are you tired of going to a restaurant you’ve heard all good things about just to find out it wasn’t worth the hype? Trust us; we’ve been there. With a new Ipoh Restaurant opening on every corner, it can be hard to figure out which one’s worth your money. Fret not, mummies! This list should help you find the perfect one that suits your taste!

Plan B

Did you just find out that you’re fresh out of ingredients for a home-cooked meal? Instead of heading to the nearest grocer, make a beeline for an Ipoh Restaurant!

Plan B is the go-to restaurant for those who have a sudden hunger for Ipoh night food.

This restaurant has literally every type of cuisine you can think of. So, it’s the perfect place to go when everyone has a different craving in mind.

Additionally, it’s super family-friendly; so, you can have the best time with the little ones worry-free.

Address: No. 75, Jalan Panglima, 30000 Ipoh, Perak
Contact no: 05-249 8286
Website: thebiggroup.co
Instagram page: planb_bybig
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Ipoh Tuck Kee

Image credit: Ipoh Tuck Tee Facebook page

Ipoh Tuck Kee is one of the oldest and most popular Chinese restaurants in Ipoh. They have been serving customers since 1963.

This restaurant is also popularly known as the noodle house for having the best noodles in Ipoh.

A secret speciality on offer in this place is their baby octopus. It isn’t often that you find a Chinese restaurant in Ipoh that can master this dish perfectly. Yet, Ipoh Tuck Kee does a pretty good job at making it in the traditional way.

Address: 61, Jalan Yau Tet Shin, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak
Contact no: +60162209361
Facebook page: Ipoh Tuck Kee
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 1:00 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.

Having’s

Image credit: Having's Facebook page

You rarely see a French restaurant serving authentic French cuisine in the streets of Ipoh. So, this Ipoh Restaurant has been getting praise for managing to master the art of traditional French cuisine in Malaysia.

Fancy a rack of lamb? Or perhaps some good ole Duck Liver Parfait? Then, you're in luck. It’s all available in Having’s!

When you first look at the menu, you may feel that the items are a bit expensive. However, once your food arrives, you’ll realise that their serving sizes are massive, which ultimately makes up for paying a little extra for your food. After all, who doesn’t love huge servings, right?

Besides, if your little one is trying French cuisine for the first time, it’s better to visit somewhere like this to tantalise their food palette.

Address: 8, Pusat Perdagangan Canning 3, Pusat Perdagangan, Lorong Canning, 31400 Ipoh
Contact no: 017-453 9089
Website: havings.business.site
Facebook page: Having’s
Instagram page: havings_ipoh
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Fridays to Sundays, 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)

Pakeeza Restaurant

Image credit: Pakeeza Restaurant Instagram account

These days it can be a bit of a struggle to find an Ipoh Restaurant that is family-friendly at times. Oftentimes, restaurants are filled with an ambience that is just not suited for young children. There are even restaurants that don’t allow kids under a certain age to dine in.

Pakeeza restaurant is one of the most family-oriented restaurants in Ipoh. You no longer have to worry about not being able to bring the little ones to lunch as the friendly staff would openly welcome them at this place.

Additionally, the restaurant's delicious menu makes it a family favourite for brunch and dinner.

Address: 15-17, Jalan Dato Seri Ahmad Said, 30450 Ipoh, Perak
Contact no: 05-241 4243
Facebook page: pakeezarestaurant
Instagram page: pakeezarestaurant
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Maiale Japanese Style Italian Restaurant

Image credit: Maiale Japanese Style Italian Restaurant Instagram account

Let’s be honest. A Japanese restaurant or an Italian restaurant is super rare in Ipoh. So, imagine finding a restaurant that offers a fusion of both these cuisines! This Ipoh Restaurant is definitely the most unique out of the bunch.

Are you looking to host a private dinner for a celebration or office event? Maiale is an Ipoh Restaurant with private room facilities that you can book to enjoy your time in the best company without any distractions.

In addition, this is the best restaurant in Ipoh for birthday celebrations.

Address: 5, Jalan Dato' Yeoh Cheng Lee, Kampung Jawa, 30300 Ipoh, Perak
Contact no: 05-241 1405
Facebook page: Maiale Japanese Style Italian Restaurant
Instagram page: maialejapaneseitalian
Opening hours:
Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Fridays to Mondays, 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Closed

Which is Your Favourite Ipoh Restaurant?

And that leads us to the end of our top picks for the best restaurants in Ipoh. We’ve tried to include items from every cuisine so that there’s something for everyone.

However, every Ipoh Restaurant has its pros and cons. Nonetheless, this list of restaurants with hip and fresh cuisines should give you a great mix of good food and great vibes. Happy dining, mums!

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