Big Events for Little Mini
Malaysians are in for a full-blown MINI treat of both style and substance as the chic automotive brand (owned by BMW) goes extroverted with two quintessential, back-to-back MINI events. No, we’re not talking about Austin Powers coming into town but something which should be more acceptable to the ‘Authorities’.
First up will be a fashion show by KL’s multi-label fashion house – Belle – which will o mesmerize with the latest collection from Belle’s Spring-Summer lines of some of Europe’s fashion heavyweights. This will then be followed by an exclusive, one-night only, live performance by Grammy Award-nominee band Kinky at Atmosphere, twelveSI tonight.
Described as “the kind of band whose live show is so energetic – even the drummer is on his feet the entire night –that it’s likely to turn a decent song into a raging sensation”, Kinky is highly acclaimed for its Mexican/Electronic beat that has won numerous accolades including a Grammy Award nomination for Best Latin/Alternative Rock in 2003.
Sukainah Osman, the MINI Manager at BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd said: “Kinky is an inspired choice for this lifestyle showcase because they convey the MINI messages perfectly. Far from being conventional, these guys insist on doing things that push the limits yet are fun, and that’s uniquely MINI. This party is our way of bringing the unique global MINI experience to Kuala Lumpur. It’s a completely cosmopolitan and cheeky experience.”
In much the same way, Kinky‘s lead singer Gil Cerezo sees the uncanny connection between MINI and his band’s music.
“MINI’s more than just a fun car – it’s a way of life! It’s got panache and punch; it simply oozes substance and style, plus it brings out a whole lot of passion from its owners. We’d like to think our music does the same for our fans,” said Gil Cerezo, lead singer of the group.
Another event to look forward to is the “Drive” which will be available to selected participants in mid-May. This is a series of advanced driving manoeuvres using the Mini and the man who will be behind the wheel is someone who can well be regarded as ‘Mr MINI’ … no, no, not Mr Bean either! The man is Rauno Aaltonen and while the younger generation of rally enthusiasts may not be so familiar with this name, Aaltonen was a legend in the international rally scene in the 1960s and was one of the original ‘Flying Finns’. He rallied in a Mini Cooper and was perhaps the most successful among the rally drivers who used the car.
“When I saw the first prototype of the new MINI, it was love at first sight. Simply taking the wheel in the cockpit fills me with enthusiasm every time. It is much more emotional in design than any comparable competitor in this category,” said Aaltonen, who first came to Malaysia to conduct advanced driving courses for BMW in 1985.
Still a skilled driver at 66 years of age and involved in advanced driving courses, Aaltonen will show off some breath-taking driving skills such as a “parallel slalom” and a course of “brake and avoid” .
