Still looking to squeeze in one last relax sesh before work/school starts again? What do you think of a koi pond, a swinging hammock, Instagrammable lazy chairs, dream catchers, pastel flags and a waterfall? Doesn’t it paint a picture of zen? If you thought that this was some kind of retreat far away from the city, you’re in for a surprise. This ultra-relaxing scene is actually right here in the city at 1 Utama! Yes, that’s right – experience dreamy, magical vibes at Rainforest Wonder Festival by 1 Utama, in conjunction with World Environment Week.
Rainforest Wonder Festival
How many of you actually knew that there’s a rainforest in 1 Utama? Not only is it home to many koi fishes, but it also houses more than 100 species of rainforest trees and flora! Fun fact: 1 Utama’s Rainforest is also Malaysia’s very first indoor rainforest! When there are no events, the Rainforest is all lush greenery and running streams. In conjunction with the Rainforest Wonder Festival, the Rainforest is currently decorated with pastel flags and dangling dream catchers. All in all, it’s very Bohemian and dreamy, a perfect way to feel close to Mother Nature. Plus, all those koi fishes? You can feed them! For only RM1, purchase a packet of fish food and feed the fishes. All proceeds of the sales go to Zoo Negara, where 1 Utama is sponsoring 10 wallabies.
Eco-Workshops
As part of the festival, 1 Utama has teamed up with local brands, tenants, and personalities to provide a hands-on experience to visitors. Today (7th June), there was a Grow Your Own Mini Herb Garden and an Aromatherapy & Essential Oils workshop, for example. Saturday (8th June) workshops are as below:
- 10:00 – 11:00 am: Farm to Plate: Salad Making & Growing Vegetables
- 11:30 am – 12:45 pm: Botanical Feast: Cooking Demo by Melissa Tan, TV host & model
- 1:30 – 2:45 pm: Kids & Eco-Crafts by Smiggle
- 4:00 – 5:30 pm: The Art of Japanese Kokedama
Each workshop is limited to 20 participants, and pre-registration is required. You could do so by sending them a personal message on their Facebook. Or, should you just happen to “walk-in”, you can place yourself on the waiting list, and you can join the workshop if a pre-registered participant doesn’t show up. Did we mention? Workshops are completely free of charge, too!
All-Day Activities
No workshops? No problem. Why don’t you get to know some animals up close? From domestic animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs to exotic creepy-crawlies such as snakes and lizards, the Petting Zoo has them all! Everyone’s turning to healthy living now, and that’s where Farmer’s Market comes in. Not only do they provide pesticide-free vegetables for your selection, but you can also find out how to grow your own vege at home. For those who already have a green thumb, drop by Gardening Corner, your one-stop solution for your gardening needs! For the artists, why not unleash your creativity by painting on canvas tents? You can’t miss them, and they’re suitable for kids and adults alike. Last but not least, if you feel like doing nothing, they’ve got you covered as well. Just chill by the waterfall in a hammock or chair!
1 Utama Goodies & Privileges
If you have a ONECardKids+, you’re in luck! Rather, your children are in luck. Simply flash this card at the personnel, and your kids can play with giant bubble wands and hula-hoops for free! No card, no children? No problem either. All you need is a Facebook account. Just “Like & Share” 1 Utama’s Facebook page @1Utama and you can redeem one (1) fresh pesticide-free vegetable from Cultiveat at the Farmer’s Market OR one (1) packet of Serbajadi vegetable seeds at the Gardening Corner.
The Rainforest Wonder Festival is only for 2 days on the 7th & 8th of June, so you still have all of tomorrow to come explore these wonders for yourself! Learn how to grow your own vegetables, cook up a storm, pet some domestic and exotic animals… it’s a perfect opportunity to recharge for getting back to work and school! See you at 1 Utama!
