Tropicana Jul-Aug 2026 #167 The Liberation Issue

EDITOR'S NOTE It feels

EDITOR'S NOTE It feels like only yesterday we were making ambitious New Year's resolutions. Now we're halfway through 2026, wondering where the last six months went—and quietly convincing ourselves there's still plenty of time to get everything done. (There is. We hope.) The second half of the year always brings fresh energy, new adventures and, for Malaysians, the celebration of Merdeka. Independence isn't just about commemorating our nation's history; it's also about celebrating our identity, culture and the unique diversity that makes Malaysia so special. This spirit of discovery runs throughout The Liberation Issue. In THRIVE, we uncover homegrown treasures such as salak syrup and kulim oil, while TASTE takes you on a culinary journey across Asia, exploring familiar dishes reimagined through different cultures, flavours and traditions. This issue's TOTAL cover story shines the spotlight on Edward Chye, Founder of EDCA Energy, whose vision is helping Malaysians embrace renewable energy and a smarter, more sustainable future. And before you head off on your own holiday, don't miss TIPS, where we share practical ways to keep your furry companions happy and well cared for while you're away. Perhaps that's what The Liberation Issue is all about— freeing ourselves from old assumptions, embracing new perspectives, and discovering that sometimes the greatest adventures begin by simply looking at familiar things differently. Wherever the season takes you, we hope these pages inspire you to explore, learn and celebrate the many ways we can all live a little more freely. Happy reading! If you're drawn to life's finer things, TREASURE explores extraordinary materials even rarer than diamonds that are making waves in the world of luxury jewellery. Over in TECH, discover the latest licence-free drones in Malaysia and meet the Ferrari Luce—an electric supercar proving that silence can still make a very loud statement. From all of us at Tropicana Lifestyle Editorial Team Dreaming of cooler weather? Our TRAVEL feature takes you to Switzerland, from the panoramic Glacier Express and picturesque Zermatt to the timeless beauty of Graubünden and Zurich—perfect inspiration for your next alpine escape.