Wesak Day 2013

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 16 May 2013 14:47

Date: 24 May 2013 Time: 7.00pm Venue: Malaysian Buddhist Association, Burmah Road The Malaysian Buddhist Association in Penang will once again be organizing a 7km-long float procession for Wesak Day. On that day, devotees will be seen visiting temples from early in the morning for services and prayers, donations, offerings of flowers and candles and also to participate in the candle-lit procession. The theme this year is ‘A Prosperous Nation, A Peaceful Life’. Wesak Day is a colourful and religious festival that commemorates the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha and usually falls on the full moon in the month of May. As the majority of Chinese in Penang are Buddhists, it is widely celebrated here with the temples beautifully decorated and brightly lit. During this day, doves are also set free as a sign of benevolence and monks usually gather to chant sacred sutras all day long. The procession will depart the Malaysia Buddhist Association on Burmah Road at 7pm and proceed to Jalan Pangkor, Jalan Kelawei, Lorong Burmah, Jalan Burmah, Peel Avenue, Jalan Macalister, Jalan Anson, Lorong Madras before returning to Burmah Road. Buddha’s statue will be placed on the procession’s main float the day before for the public to donate flowers for its decoration. For more information, contact 04-2292690.

Durian Festival 2013

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 16 May 2013 14:45

Date: 1st of June 2013 to 31st July 2013 Time: 11am to 6pm Daily Location: Anjung Indah, Balik Pulau and Balik Pulau town area GPS Coordinates/Google Map:  5°21'0"N   100°15'7"E Despite its reputation, Durian is an overwhelmingly popular fruit in Malaysia. Balik Pulau’s Durian is one of Malaysia’s best places for durian. The hilly slopes and temperate climate of Balik Pulau produces some of the best durians and durian hybrids in the country. Visitors as far as Singapore and Hong Kong will visit this otherwise sleepy town during durian season to sample the delicious, creamy Durian Balik Pulau. Some of the award winning durians in Balik Pulau are Ang Hae, Ang Bak, D16, D700 and of course the famous “Musang King” For more information, please call 016-411 0000.

Mr Penang 2013 - Body-Building Championship

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 16 May 2013 13:43

Date: 25th May 2013 Time: 7.00pm – 11.30pm Venue: Sunway Carnival Convention Centre   Sunway Hotel Seberang Jaya will be hostigng Mr Penang 2013 - Body-Building Championship on 25th May 2013. The event is a jointly organized by Penang Body Building Association, an affiliate of the Malaysia Body Building Federation (MBBF) and the Penang State Sports Council. For the first time since its inception, Mr Penang - Body Building Championship will be held in mainland Penang at Sunway Hotel Seberang Jaya. Mr Penang 2013 - Body-Building Championship will be held on Saturday, 25th May 2013. The Pre-Judging will be held at 10.30 am at Sri Cengal1 and followed by dinner and Final round at the Sunway Carnival Convention Centre. An anticipated 120 – 150 participants from the 23 affiliated members of Penang Body Building Association are expected to participate in the championships inclusive of contingents from Kelab Gym Rakyat and other fitness clubs. The price for the entire evening event inclusive of dinner range between RM600 to RM15. For more information, please contact Ms Tay Sok Ling at 04 – 370 7788 or e-mail her at sltay@sh.com.my

Auto-City Carnival 2013

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 16 May 2013 13:37

Date: 31st May to 2nd June 2013 Venue: Auto-City; Juru On the 31st May to 2nd of June 2013, Auto-City will once again be hosting its annual Auto – City Carnival! The Carnival has attracted up to over 50,000 individuals and car enthusiasts from all around in the past years with their interesting and entertaining family-friendly programs. Many proud owners of their beautifully modified cars will be going up against one another to compete for the titles “SUPER GT Car Look Alike Contest”,  “Modified Compact Car Contest”, “Proton Standard Modified Car Contest”,“VIP Car Modified Contest”,“Open Modified Car Contest”and “Best Audio Car Contest”. The competition is also heating up amongst the lovely ladies competing for the crown of the “Miss Auto-City 2013” and “Party Queen Make up Contest”. The will also be a  “Children’ Coloring Contest” and exhibition booths during the carnival. The highlights of the carnival are performances by the “Super GT” Queens all the way from Japan, Beauties Parade, fun games and lots of goodies to be given away by the event sponsors and exhibitors. Entry is free as always and everyone is welcomed to join in the fun. For more information please log on to www.autocity.com.my or call 04-5011222.

Happy Mother's Day

Written by Administrator II

Friday, 10 May 2013 14:59

Date: 12 May 2013 Mother’s Day is celebrated internationally on the second Sunday of May and just like most cities, it is celebrated widely in Penang by people of different cultures and background. This celebration honours motherhood and is a day to show appreciation to all mothers. The most common practice in Penang is for Penangites to bring their mothers out for a dinner with the family at a restaurant. However, people with different ethnic cultures may celebrate it differently. Just like any other celebration in Penang, Mother’s Day is celebrated with enthusiasm and its festive mood can be felt at most public places especially at shopping complexes, hotels and restaurants. The Penang State Tourism Development and Culture Committee would like to wish all mothers a very Happy Mother’s Day! This Sunday, Queensbay Mall will also be organising a “Mummy and Me” photo moment at 2.00pm. This charity event encourages shoppers to make a difference by going a step further to support local single mothers. This is a simple promise-and-challenge fundraising campaign where RM2,000 will be donated to Women’s Centre for Change (WCC) if 100 shoppers join the “Mummy & Me” Photo Moment. To join, shoppers need to spend RM100 (maximum in 2 receipts) at any outlets in Queensbay Mall and register at the Info Counter, Ground Floor, Centre Zone, and capture a Mother’s Day photo. Participants will receive one 5R-sized photo with a frame and a stalk of pink daisy. In addition, participants can stand a chance to win one of the five lucky draw prizes worth RM100 comprising of products from The Body Shop. For more information, contact 04-6198989 or follow their Facebook page on www.facebook.com/queensbaymall.

French Flamboyance – French Art & Film Festival 2013

Written by Administrator II

Friday, 10 May 2013 07:01

Date: 16 – 26 May 2013 Venue: Gurney Plaza, Penang For all you French language and culture enthusiasts, the French Art & Film Festival is back! Gurney Plaza will be organizing some activities from 17 May onwards in conjunction with this festival. For the Film Festival it will once again be held at Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC), Gurney Plaza with the screening of 15 french films from 16 to 25 May. Aside from Kuala Lumpur, Penang will be the only other state in Malaysia to hold this film festival. The official launching ceremony for the French Art & Film Festival will be held on 17 May, 3pm at the New Wing Atrium with vibrant music, songs, creative art, dance performance, food and wines. Aside from Alliance Francaise de Penang, Gurney Plaza will also be collaborating with L’occitane, Secret Recipe, Cold Storage & Lanvin Paris throughout this period. On 18 May, there will be a painting competition open to all with the theme “French Essence”. Cash vouchers & prizes worth more than RM2,000 to be won. The list of french films that will be screened at GSC are as the following: Comedy Le prénom – What’s in a name? (2012) Comme un chef – The chef (2012) Populaire - Popular (2012) Les bien-aimés – Beloved (2012) La graine et le mulet – The secret of the grain (2007) Drama Les neiges du Kilimandjaro – The snows of Kilimandjaro (2012) L’Exercice de l’Etat – The minister (2011) Un Homme qui crie – A screaming man (2010) Persécution – Persecution (2009) Animated movie Le Tableau – The painting (2011) Kerity la maison des contes – Eleanor’s secret (2009) Focus on Juliette Binoche : Drama, comedy and documentary Le Hussard sur le toit – The horseman on the roof (1995) Décalage horaire – Jet lag (2001) L’Heure d’été – Summer hours (2008) Juliette Binoche dans les yeux – Juliette Binoche : Sketches for a portrait (2009) As for Gurney Plaza’s Redemption for the month, they will be giving away complimentary French Movie Passes from 16 to 20 May 2013. Shoppers need to spend RM350 and above in a single receipt to redeem the passes. HSBC card holders only need to spend only RM300 and above for this. Aside from that, Gurney Plaza will be having a ‘Lanvin Paris Big Spenders Reward’ from 16 to 25 May 2013. The three top highest spenders for each day within this duration will be entitled to an 80ml bottle of ‘ME’ perfume by Lanvin Paris. The prize presentation for this will be held on 15 June 2013.

Traditional Chinese Instrument Qu Qin Concert

Written by Administrator II

Friday, 10 May 2013 06:57

Date: 7th June 2013 (Friday) Venue: Komtar Auditorium Time: 8.00pm The Malaysian Japanese Society will be organizing a traditional Chinese instrument concert at the Komtar Auditorium on the 7th June 2013 at 8.00pm. Tickets are priced at RM35. On Saturday 22nd June, there will be a Japanese cooking demonstration at Penang Japanese Association from 1.00pm – 5.00 pm. The sessions will be divided into two sessions (1st session is at 1.30pm and 2nd session is at 3.30pm) . Dishes will be demonstrated by the chef from the official residence of Consul-General of Japan.  Dishes includes  Miso Shiru, Tempura, Chawan mushi and Sushi.  This event  is supported by the Consulate General of Japan.  It is open to the public at only RM20 per pax.  The is a maximum number of participants of 25 pax  per session ; on first come first serve basis. For more information please call Vallen at 012-4802780.

Time Out Penang Application for the iPhone & iPad

Written by Administrator II

Friday, 10 May 2013 15:22

Time Out Penang magazine is proud to announce the launch of the Time Out Penang Application for the iPhone & iPad. The Time Out Penang App is inspired by the popular and successful Time Out London and Time Out Kuala Lumpur Applications, the former of which has achieved over 500,000 downloads and the latter more than 50,000 downloads since launch in April 2011. Time Out Apps have also seen established and market-leading success in Dubai, New York and Sydney with tens of thousands of users signing up and giving them rave reviews. Continuing this runaway success, the Time Out Penang iPhone App achieved more than 1,000 downloads in its first fortnight in the iPhone App Store. The Time Out Penang App has unique Geo Tagging features which allow it to feed the user location-based content. The App allows the user to browse for events and things to do under traditional Time Out categories such as restaurants, nightlife, art, performance, music and more. The App also features regular giveaways, competitions and offers to save readers money, enabling them to go out and enjoy more of their home state. This App will revolutionise the way Penang-ites access information about the state and events here. The App is backed by the Time Out Penang team, renowned for their independent journalism and the extensive Time Out resources, which ensure that the user will have the best of Penang literally at their fingertips. Users can book restaurants, read theatre reviews, locate gigs, get entry to the hottest parties and win prizes. The Time Out Penang application is now available at www.timeoutkl.com/iphone and at the iPhone App Store. It can be downloaded now.

 

Five27 by CK Lam

Written by Administrator II

Friday, 10 May 2013 06:52

Named after its global positioning satellite coordinates location (GPS) in the dockside lifestyle hub of Straits Quay in Penang, Five27 has been charming diners with cool tastes of modern Nordic inspired specialties. The kitchen is helmed by Executive Chef and General Manager Nizar Achmad. With his Indonesian culinary roots and Swedish and French influences, he crafted a menu that uses fresh produce and balanced flavors. Dishes are garnished with local and organic options whenever available. Five27 serves up a hearty bowl of Mushroom Soup with freshly baked bread and flavored butter. The soup with pleasing mushroom earthiness is made with a combination of selected mushrooms and cream, served with parmesan shavings and truffle oil. Other choices of soup in the menu include Leek & Potato Soup and Indonesian Oxtail Soup. The latter is done with clear texture and served with accompaniments of sweet black sauce, pickled cucumber & carrot and homemade green chili sauce. Seafood made an appearance in the Lightly Salt Cured Salmon dish. The dish featured a piece of nicely seared salmon in honey and dill mustard sauce. Crunch from thinly sliced cucumber went well with the delicate tones of the fish. The next course is the Beef Burger which is sandwiched between a well textured bun. The chef had it served on a wooden board. On one side is a generous pile of house-made French fries that are amazingly light and crisp. The taste of the well-rounded burger balanced well with the caramelized onions, pineapple and rosemary salsa. For people who enjoy meatball, the dish of Swedish Meatballs served with buttery creamed potato may just be the choice. The meatballs are well spiced and come with brown sauce, lingonberry jam, slices of cheese and generous amount of micro cilantro which delivered distinctive fresh flavor. The meatball and creamed potato contributed hearty portion to this dish, so it’s best to share. The Bœuf Bourguignon in luscious thick sauce is served with steaming white rice. Slow-stewed for several hours in red wine with carrot, thyme and bay leaves, the beef is undeniably tender. The beetroot added nice contrast and taste to this traditional French stew which is prominently on the set lunch menu. Tuck into the Braised Beef Ribs served with mashed almond, pumpkin & potato and parsnip sauce. The aromatic flavor of the moist texture rib is heightened by the beetroot & chili salad. The Shitake Mushroom Lasagne is a lighter selection than the beef rib. Made with cheese, chopped mushroom and thin layers of filo pastry, this vegetarian lasagna is served bubbling hot with truffle sauce. Delight yourself with choice in desserts (up to six). The Chocolate Cake is a sweet treat made with dark rich chocolate. While the smooth and light Raspberry Panacota is sourish appetizing, the chocolate cake with flavorful depth of dark chocolate with just the right amount of creaminess is fast gaining popularity. If you need to take coffee, a cup of aromatic Illy is the way to go. It arrives on a wooden board edged by a piece of cookie. There is essentially two dining area: a spacious indoor area and alfresco space with warm breeze and breathtaking view of the private yacht dock.  This newly opened restaurant (in January 2013) has since attracted famous friends that included Busta Rhymes, LMFAO and Ludacris. Five27 3AG18-19 Straits Quay E&O Marina Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang Tanjung Tokong 10470 Penang Tel: 04-8900435 Business Hours: 11am - 11pm Written by CK Lam, food blogger and editor of http://www.what2seeonline.com; featuring the Best of Penang Food. She constantly combs Penang for the best gastronomical delights besides sharing photos of Penang culture and heritage at: http://www.penang365.com/

Sungha Jung Live in Penang

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 02 May 2013 09:29

Date: 23rd June 2013 Time: 8.30pm Venue: Dewan Tuanku Syed Putra, USM Korean guitar prodigy; Sungha Jung will be coming to Penang again this 23rd June 2013, for his biggest solo concert at Dewan Tuanku Syed Putra, Universiti Sains Malaysia. Sungha Jung is a South Korean professional acoustic finger-style guitarist who rose to fame worldwide through YouTube videos of him playing acoustic versions of songs by U2, Michael Jackson, Bon Jovi, The Eagles and Extreme. As of 2012, his videos had gotten a total of over 420 million hits. As a child, he watched his father play the guitar and eventually picked it up at the age of nine. His talent was noticed when he would watch videos online and be able to play the music within a short time and without the original tabs. In 2011, Sungha has performed in the US with Trace Bundy as well as toured Scandinavia and Japan. To know more about Sungha Jung, visit http://www.sunghajung.com/ or watch his videos on YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/user/jwcfree?feature=watch. For more information or ticket purchase, please call Ticket Hotline 03-92228811 or visit www.ticketcharge.com.my

Penang Dance Day

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 02 May 2013 09:25

Date:                12th May 2013 (Sunday) Venue:      penangpac, Straits Quay Time:                   10.00 am – 7.00 pm On the 29th of April, as every year since 1982, World Dance Day will be celebrated all over the world by the international community of dancers and dance enthusiasts. The day is initiated and celebrated through promotion by the International Dance Council CID, UNESCO in Paris as well as the Dance Committee of the ITI (International Theater Institute). The goals are to increase awareness of the importance of dance and attract the attention of the wider public, to the art of dance, as well as to persuade governments all over the world to provide a proper place for dance in all systems of education. Emphasis is also given to addressing a “new” public, people who do not follow dance events during the course of the year. The intention is to celebrate Dance, to revel in the universality of this art form, to cross all political, cultural and ethnic barriers and bring people together with a common language – Dance. PEARL (Penang Arts Link) is a network of independent individuals and groups of Penang dance makers in Penang, coming together to organize and celebrate International Dance Day in April each year. This year, it will be celebrated on Sunday, May 12.  Workshops will be held from 10.00 am - 5.30 pm. Participants will be invited to participate in different forms of dance training conducted by Dance teachers and choreographers from Let’s Dance, Zero Fitness Dance Center, Dance Factory Art Academy, I-Media Education, A&T Dance Academy, Yogeswara Yoga, Tian Lo Natural Healing Center, penangPAC, Adikarma, Temple of Fine Arts and dance personalities such as Aida Redza, Nancy Ng and more in technique such as contemporary dance, zumba, creative/expressive dance, hip hop, street dance, new dance and bollywood at Performing Arts Centre Penang. For more information on Penang Dance Day 2013 check out the event on http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.403009637928.170658.209521997928&type=3

Befrienders’ Penang Cycle Walk

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 02 May 2013 09:18

Date: 19th May 2013 Time: 7.00am -1.00pm Venue: Jalan Padang Kota Lama Befrienders Penang seeing the need to create public awareness on Suicide Prevention, will be organizing a Cycle & Walk event with the theme “We Care…… We Listen” on 19th May 2013.Befrienders Penang is reaching out to the generosity of the public and private sectors to raise funds through this event, the objectives of which are to create greater public awareness, and to sustain and enhance its services. For RM50, participants will also get a goodies bag that comes with a "Befrienders" Stress Ball, a towel and Jersey. Participants will also get a chance to participate in a lucky draw with a grand prize 4 Day cruise to Phuket on Star Cruises. Celebrities such as Miau Miau , Teh Winli and Jason Teh (Astro Hua Hee Lai Kara Champion and No.3) will also be making an appearance for the event. For more information on the event please visit http://howei.com/event/befcyclewalk or call 017- 9599886.

Youth Creative- Short Film Contest

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 02 May 2013 09:12

Closing Date: 14th June 2013 Youth Creative is back again this year with the theme “Public Service Awareness” Winner of this competition will take home a cash prize of RM34,000 and a chance to be selected as Penang State Government's official Public Service Announcement film. Participants are required to make a short film based on PSA and the content must creative and meaningful. The short film should deliver a healthy message which increases public awareness and encourages positive thinking. All entries can be up to a maximum of five (5) minutes in length, excluding credits. Minimum running time of three (3) minutes is required. All online submissions must be no larger than 40 MB of file size; AND All offline submissions (DVD) MUST in best quality, no size limit required. Only MP4 format is accepted. Competition details can be found on their website http://www.youthcreative.com.my. Submit your piece by June 14 for both categories of Open (below 40 years old) and Student (for those between 15 and 25 years old).

The Growing Sophistication of Penang Palates

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 02 May 2013 09:08

Article and Photos by HELEN ONG Penang is growing not just in the number of condominium blocks shooting up all over the state but also by population: a large number of people are choosing to come and live here because of everything we have to offer. This is evident in the much bigger choice that we now have in food and beverage, particularly wines to cater for an increasingly sophisticated palate which is seeking finer, more elegant tipples. In fact, according to Sunny Teh, Assistant Sales Manager of Giant Estates Sdn Bhd’s The Wine Shop in town, the pendulum is now swinging back, and there is an emerging preference for fine old world wines, with French labels leading the way. For the first time, a wine appreciation event organised by French wine merchants Barriere Freres in conjunction with their local representative The Wine Shop was held here on 30 April at the E&O Hotel’s brand new Victory Annex. ‘Bordeaux Rendezvous’ 2013 was designed to promote French wines in Asia, and showcased some prestigious labels from the Bordeaux region in south-western France. With some ten thousand chateaux, this wine region is the largest vineyard in France and indeed the world, according to Celine Villars-Foubet, proprietor of Chateau de Camensac in the Haut Medoc Appellation. The afternoon started with a Master Class of 2010 vintages conducted by the 23 representatives who were on a whistle-stop tour in Penang after similar events in Singapore and Bangkok. They were on their way to Indonesia the next day.  The class was followed by a Wine Dinner in the hotel’s splendid new fifth floor ballroom. The food, served buffet-style, was designed by Executive ChefPetr Feherspecially to go with the more complex and rounded Appellation Controlee wines and included a tasty but not too spicy Beef Rendang and Prawns with Glass Noodles. “This is the most important wine event not only in Malaysia but South East Asia,” claimed Laurent Ehrmann, Managing Director of Maison Barriere in his welcoming speech to the 140+ guests present, mostly wine connoisseurs who were both private collectors and trade professionals.   26 2002/2003 vintages were available for tasting that evening, from younger, fruitier Clos Fourtet from St Emillion to the Chateau Leoville Poyferre, St Julien which retails for RM1010.00 per bottle. Dessert wines included some sweet sauternes.  “It was a very successful evening,” said Teh. “All the principles were very happy, and some even commented that they felt the event had gone better than in Singapore!” Bordeaux wines will be available for purchase at The Wine Shop, or alternatively to consume at their cosy Wine Bar next door. The Wine Shop, 15 Lintang Burmah, 10250, Pulau Pinang Tel: +604 226 0331.

Chithirai Pournami Celebration 2013

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 25 April 2013 06:43

Venue : Sri Balathandayuthabani Hilltop Temple, Waterfall Road Penang Details : Apr 24th, 6.00pm : Lord Murugan will be carried on chariot from Queen Street Mahamariamman temple to the Sri Balathandayuthabani Hilltop Temple Apr 25th, 6.00am to 11.00pm : Devotees will carry milk pot & kavadi to pay their vows to Lord Murugan at the Waterfall Hilltop Temple Apr 26th, 6.00pm : Lord Murugan will be carried on chariot back to Queen Street Sri Mahamariamman temple. The Chitrapournami Festival is the  1st Full Moon of Tamil Calendar), also known as Mini-Thaipusam celebration in Penang. It will be celebrated at the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple (Hill Top), Waterfall Road, Penang from 24th April to 26th April 2011. Chitra Pournami is observed on the full moon day in the month of Chithirai or chaitra corresponding to the English months of April-May, when the asterism Chitra(virginis) holds sway. It is a festival observed to propitiate Chitragupta the chief accountant of Yama, who is believed to record the commissions and omissions by men in order to punish or reward them after their death. In the evening of Wednesday, Lord Balathadayuthapani will leave Arumigu Maha Mariamman Temple at Queen Street on a chariot at 6:00p.m and proceed to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple (Hill Top) at Waterfall Road. On Thursday morning, it is expected that the devotees will flood the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple (Hill Top) to fulfill their vows after the morning poojai. The praying ceremony will continue for the day until late evening when Lord Balathadayuthapani will be taken on a procession around the temple premises starting 8:00p.m. On the next day, Lord Balathadayuthapani will leave the Hill Top Temple for the return journey to Arumigu Maha Mariamman Temple at Queen Street starting 6p.m. The Chariot is expected to arrive at the Arumigu Maha Mariamman Temple at about 6:30a.m on Saturday.

Vogue For Virtue 2013 Charity Fashion Show

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 25 April 2013 06:40

Date: 27 April 2013 Time: 7.00pm Venue: GF-Centre Zone, Main Stage Back for the fifth year running, Queensbay Mall’s Vogue For Virtue 2013 aims to continue making charity fashionable with the highlight being the Charity Fashion Show With Celebrities happening on the evening of 27 April 2013. In essence, Vogue for Virtue is a signature Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme to help the less fortunate children, where proceeds from CapitaMalls Asia (CMA) will be channeled to the selected charitable organisations. Over the years, Queensbay Mall Vogue For Virtue has gained much confidence and support from our fashion retailers and also our top home-grown inspiring celebrities. While many returned to join us in this event year after year to support the good cause, new faces will be introduced this year to take over the runway on the Charity Fashion Show With Celebrities and be role models to all the aspiring fashion models. It will be a night to remember with Serena C as the host of the evening, and guests will also be entertained by a classy jazz performance from Atilia. Meanwhile, celebrities Carmen Soo, Daphne Iking, Debbie Goh, Elaine Daly, Hansen Lee, Nadia Heng, Sazzy Falak and Wilson Tan will be in the limelight and strut down the runway with premium fashion brands including G2000, Esprit and French Connection as well as Springfield and UNIQLO, which are exclusively available in Queensbay Mall within the Northern Region of Malaysia. This year, we are honoured to partner XTREME Hair Specialist, INGLOT, ROSCANI and Velvet Productions who contribute greatly to the success of this event. In line with CMA’s CSR commitment to building a better future for underprivileged children, a total of RM20,000 will be donated equally to four charitable organisations – National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM), Joblink Centre, Penang Down Syndrome Association and Pertubuhan Rumah Kebajikan Seri Cahaya. Through these contributions, we aim to create awareness and offer financial assistance to support the development programmes of charitable organisations that provide shelter, education and healthcare to underprivileged children with multi disabilities (Physical Disabilities, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism and Intellectually Disabled) or from dysfunctional families. CMA believes that helping underprivileged children at an earlier stage of development will have a multiplier effect on the beneficiaries’ families and the community, enabling social mobility in the future. The cheque presentation will be held during the Charity Fashion Show With Celebrities. Call 04-6198989 for more details or follow us on www.facebook.com/queensbaymall

 

Exhibition of Ecuadorian Artist - Luis Medina

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 25 April 2013 06:37

FREE ADMISSION Date: 26 Apr 2013 (Fri) ~ 5 May 2013 (Sun) Time :10am ~ 6:30pm (Mon ~ Sun) Venue :gallery 1, penangpac @ Straits Quay Members of the public are invited to view the works of world renowned Ecuadorian artist Luis Medina from the 26th April to 5th May 2013 a gallery1, penangpac Straits Quay. The exhibition is supported by the The Embassy of Ecuador in Malaysia Medina’s artwork travels through the limits of the imagination and plays with the roots of nature mixed with the world of abstraction. There is a whole world filled with lines, colors, textures that makes the soul to shine by the force and light of the painter’s stroke. Chaotic urban corners, trees, and dreams are the current themes of  The difference is that it is necessary to rediscover them, search them, interpret them. The nature of the object has changed, aiming to express feelings, the painting has become a spiritual medium. Medina’s works are a great chromatic force, making each frame into a spiritual space, unlimited, natural; because nature is the only means to express his inner visions. The gallery is opened from 10 am to 6.30pm every day. Admission is Free.

Stamp and Collectors Fair & Exhibition

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 25 April 2013 06:14

Penang Philatelic Society - Stamp and Collectors Fair & Exhibition Date: 27 – 28 April 2013 Time: 9am to 6pm Venue: E&O Hotel Penang, New Victoria Annexe, Rooms 1 & 2 The Penang Philatelic Society will be holding its new stamp fair in the newly refurbished extensionof the Eastern and Oriental Hotel, George Town Penang on 27th and 28th April 2013. The displays will feature the important role the hotel has played in the postal history of Penang and will focus on material posted at the E&O Hotel post office, as well as postcards that feature this world famous hotel, which was built by the Sarkies Bros and opened in 1885, their other famous hotel being the Raffles Hotel in Singapore The fair will also feature books, bank notes, coins and historical items of Penang. It also includes lectures of Sun Yat Sen by Lim Gaik Sang and a Junior Competition for schools and a Dealer’s Bourse in aid of charity. For more information,please email Bob Evans at bobvenpg@hotmail.com.

Matta Fair Penang 2013

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 18 April 2013 08:51

Date: 19 – 21 April 2013 Time: 5pm – 9pm (19 Apr), 10am – 9pm (20 & 21 Apr) Venue: Penang International Sports Arena (PISA) The 17th Penang Matta Fair will be held this weekend with 119 booths with 40 exhibitors offering products such as value-for-money tour packages, travel incentives and more that will be sure to delight travellers of all kinds. Although on a smaller scale this year, the fair will offer more deals for budget travel and ecotourism. According to the Matta Penang Chapter chairman, the tour packages will include 70% inbound travel and 30% outbound travel, and will be more focused on places of interests such as historical sites than shopping centres. This fair is organised annually by The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) and this year, it is expected to draw more than 10,000 visitors. There will be a lucky draw contest with hotel stays and buffet vouchers as prizes. There will also be lots of games and performances during these three days. For more information on the fair, please call 04-226 8109.

TVB drama, ‘Outbound Love’ to be shot in George Town, Penang

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 18 April 2013 08:47

The production crew and cast of “Outbound Love”, a new Chinese romantic comedy series, had just recently arrived in Penang for a month-long shooting on the island and later, in Kuala Lumpur. The series will be partially shot in Malaysia and the rest, back in Hong Kong. In Penang, the shooting locations include the heritage trail in George Town, fishing villages and Penang National Park. Expected to premiere at year end on Astro On Demand, the cast include TVB artistes Aimee Chan, Ruco Chan, Elaine Yiu, Vivien Yeo, Elliot Ngok and Helen Ma as well as Astro artistes Juztin Lan, Jordan Sen, Belle Chan, Alex Yau, Jocelyn How, Helen Wong and Denise Tan, first runner-up of Miss Astro Chinese International Pageant (MACIP) 2013. The story is about a Hong Kong travel agent (Aimee Chan) who escapes to Penang after her boyfriend (Matt Yeung) breaks up with her. In Penang, she meets Ruco Chan who is a famous music producer disguised as a tour guide who has also left Hong Kong after getting his heart broken. Although they initially disliked each other, the couple was quick to fall in love. When they returned to Hong Kong, a love triangle ensues as Matt decides to win Aimee back. “Outbound Love” is produced by Hong Kong’s Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB) in collaboration with Astro and is supported by the Penang State Tourism Development and Culture.

World Photo Fest 2013

Written by Administrator II

Thursday, 18 April 2013 08:44

Date: 26th – 28th April 2013 Venue: Hard Rock Hotel, Penang JASMINE STAR TO SPEAK ON BRANDING AND MARKETING OF PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS As the name suggests Jasmine Star is not only a star photographer but she also works with superstar. Voted as the world’s top 10 Wedding Photographer, Star’s attention to detail has made her a much sought photograper after by celebrities who wants her to capture their most auspicious moment. Thus, is it not surprising that Star’s works continues to grace many pages of the world’s leading wedding publications. California-based Star will be among the renowned international photographers who will be making an appearance at the upcoming World Photo Fest 2013. Others big names in the international photography scene that will be joining her are Nik Pekridis, Gerard Fox, Sean Liew, Gary O’Connor, Pein Lee, Yusuf Hashim, Lito Sy, Teh Young Sun and Patrick Low. Organized by the Wedding Portrait Photography Malaysia (WPPM) and managed by UCSI Communications, the four-day fest will be held at the Hard Rock Hotel Penang from April 26 to 29. This event is held for the first time in Penang and is expected to attract a good number of photography enthusiasts. Star is schedule to conduct a talk entitled “Branding: You” on April 28. Her two-hour talk starts from 10am to noon. In addition, the organizer has also arranged a VIP Session with Star the same afternoon. In the VIP Session, Star will be speaking on the photography as a business as well as marketing it. Her topic in the session is “Marketing and Branding Your Photography Business: An In-depth look at how to get business, stay busy and keep clients happy”. This special four-hour session is for four hours and it is for those who paid the full conference fee of RM699 per person. Seats are limited. Besides talk by the other photographers, the fest’s program also includes  masterclasses and live model photography shoot. Two masterclasses will be held and each class is priced at RM480 per person. The photo fest is also supported by the Penang State Tourism Development and Culture Office. For details on the WPF 2013, please logon to www.wpf2013.com.

Hospitality Programme at INTI International College, Penang

The International reputation of INTI International College Penang is based on world-class academic programs combined with high quality industry internship programs in Malaysia and abroad. In addition, state of the art facilities and the development of a strong management, interpersonal, language and cultural skills provide a distinct advantage to INTI graduates. The INTI Edge which encompasses the 3I’s: Internationalisation, Innovation and Individualisation set the INTI graduate to be different from the rest in terms of being fully equipped to compete in a global workplace.

The programs are offered in partnership with two globally recognised hospitality schools, Australia’s Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School and the US’s Kendall College School of Culinary Arts. Graduates of these programmes are now working in the very best establishments around the world.

INTI’s education in hospitality will be shaped by an ideal balance of theoretical knowledge and practical training. Students will be trained to develop leadership qualities, confidence and resourcefulness, as well as learn how to analyse, strategize and make quick decisions. All these will give the students a distinct advantage as they advance to higher studies or challenging careers.

With INTI International College Penang, students will gain valuable exposure as the college takes them outside the classroom to 5-star partner establishments. The comprehensive curriculum also covers field trips, internships, seminars and workshops to prepare the students for the working world.

INTI International College Penang’s diploma allows one to pursue more than just a career within the kitchen and hotels. Graduates can venture into research and development, start their own businesses, work for renowned hotels and restaurants and travel around the world. The college takes pride in their graduate placement programme and, exercise a best fit approach. The Diploma in Hotel Management prepares students for employment leading towards a supervisory level, or progression to a degree. Professional skills are developed through a series of Craft-Based Learning activities supported by theoretical courses and an internship. In this programme, students will also learn fundamental subjects related to business, marketing, economics and operations. A 2 year diploma inclusive of internship, graduates will receive a quality endorsed diploma from Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School and stands an opportunity to complete a degree at Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School in 15 months upon graduation. Ranked No 1 International Hospitality Management School in Australia/ Asia Pacific for an international career, Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School’s approach to education which aims to develop the whole person – their knowledge, their attitude and their skills when they were awarded The World Hospitality Award for 3 consecutive years.

Similarly to the Diploma in Hotel Management, the Diploma in Culinary Arts is also a 2 year diploma and is a highly specialised programme designed to develop and nurture leaders in the culinary arts profession. The programme is developed to provide practical culinary and entrepreneurship skills to students. Specialisations available are Kitchen & Larder and Patisserie. The stringent quality control of syllabus and assessment by Kendall School of Culinary Arts grooms future chefs to have a balanced focus on practical and entrepreneurship skills in the area of culinary and food service operations and graduates of INTI’s Culinary Arts will receive two certifications from Kendall College and INTI.

Also ranked no 1 by the Chicago Michelin Guide, Kendall College is committed to the professional development of its students when it delivers prepared, polished and creative-thinking problem solvers into the marketplace.

Students of INTI benefit not only from the institution’s over 25 years of experience and strong track-record, but also gain from the global synergy and resources that Laureate International Universities provides. Laureate – the world’s largest private education network – has a presence in 29 countries, with more than 60 accredited universities and 130 campuses, serving more than 675,000 students globally.

For more information on INTI’s programmes, contact 604- 6310138.

Done just the way the Hakkas love it

By Helen Ong

EIGHTEEN months after opening for business, this charming, unpretentious outlet on the first floor of Tesco Sri Tanjung Pinang in Tanjung Tokong is now truly established in Penang’s F&B scene.

That’s because, as proprietor Diana Chin puts it: “We serve tasty home-cooked Hakka food which everyone enjoys.”

Using tried-and-tested recipes which her Hakka mother has perfected over the years, they serve Hor Po-style food, of which apparently Loi Cha (Thunder Tea) is the best example.

Cooked brown rice, served in a large bowl around which at least nine different vegetables, herbs and pulses are piled, is finished off with a fragrant green soup made with ground fresh mint, basil and other herbs – hence its distinctive bright green. Mix well and tuck in.

According to Chin, it’s something which would have been made for special occasions, because of the amount of work involved.

This healthy dish even comes with noodles or fried rice.

If you’re unsure what to order though, worry not: their ‘Happy Family Meals’ set offers a variety of their most well known dishes. Enough for 3-4 pax, it’s very good value at RM79++, as it comes with a choice of vegetables and mains.

Choose from different types of homemade Yong Taufu with fish paste and minced pork, deep-fried or in soup, sour Vinegar Trotters, Crispy Salted Pork Belly and of course, the famous Abacus Beads (steamed mashed yam rounds fried with fragrant dried shrimps and fresh coriander).

If you just want a quick bite though, there’s the ‘Power Lunch’, available weekdays from 11am to 3pm (except public or school holidays).

Priced at a very reasonable RM11.90++ — RM13.90, this consists of soup, drink, dessert and one of their popular one-meal dishes including bestseller Hakka Noodles. Tossed in dark minced pork and soya sauce, it’s served with Minced Pork Patties.

They’ve also just introduced Hakka-style Chicken Rice, served with roast or the more traditional white chicken.

The food is good but a spoonful of their excellent homemade chilli and garlic sauce does add an extra dimension. If you fancy taking some home, a large jar can be purchased for RM10.

Hakka Tree’s Hakka food is proving so popular that Diana and business partner Peggy Tan have recently opened a pork-free branch in Queensbay Mall, where they now serve a limited menu at the Queens Market Food Court.

For more information, call 04-8993887 (Tesco Sri Tanjung Pinang) or 016-4588396 (Queensbay Mall).

Audition for “Penang- Live It, Love It!”

Date: 13^th April 2013

Time: 6.00pm

Venue: 1^st Avenue, Main Atrium

Penang – Live It! Love It!, a Penang Tourism Variety Show Series produced by Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP) will be organizing an audition this 13 April at 1^st Avenue Mall to search for talents for the variety show which is scheduled to begin filming by May 2013. 

Two winners of the audition will get the chance to co-host a series of the variety show. Other contestants will also get a chance to be chosen to join the supporting cast members.

The winners will be showcasing interesting tourism sites, products and services of Penang in a very unique way that will interest the viewers. Each episode will also have a drama segment featuring tourist attractions such as Kek Lok Si Temple, Snake Temple, Sun Yat Sen’s Penang Base, Tropical Spice Garden, Penang Butterfly Farm and Penang Bird Park as backdrops

The variety show will cover up to 20 episodes at most and will be made available on YouTube, Facebook, ATAP’s homepage, WOW Penang’s homepage and other partners’ online platforms. Each episode will be broadcasted every fortnightly beginning July 2013.

For more information please visit http://wowpenang.com.my/register/

KDU Power Chef Competition 2013

Date: 13 April 2013
Time: 8.30am to 4.00pm
Venue: KDU College Penang

The 6^th KDU Power Chef Competition is back, and this year in conjunction with the KDU Education Group’s 30th anniversary. This year, the competition will see 70 teams, comprising of 140 students from high schools around Penang, putting their culinary skills to the test. The judges for this year’s competition consist of a team of culinary experts and critiques that include Chef Mitchell Stewart, Chef Thomas See, Chef Albert Goh and numerous food bloggers. Aside from vying for the coveted KDU Power Chef Challenge Shield, the icing on the cake are sponsorship prizes presented by SP Construction, Holiday Inn Resort Penang, HT Tours, A.Com and Nassim Concept.

For this round, teachers who love to cook will also be able to participate in a “Malaysian Main Course” competition that has been organized specially for school teachers.

The event will begin with the registration of contestants at 7.30am followed by the welcome and opening address by Ms Cindy Loh, Chairman of the 6^th KDU Power Chef Competition and Dr Chong Beong Keok, CEO and Principal of KDU College Penang respectively. The preliminary round begins at 9.00am with the first round of judging at 9.45am. At 10.45am, the consolation round and teacher’s category begins followed by judging, and the final round at 2.00pm followed by the final round of judging. The announcement of winner and prize giving ceremony will be at 3.15pm.

For more information, contact 04-2266368.

Gurney Paragon Earth Day Green Mania

Date: 20 & 21 April 2013
Time: 12pm to 10pm
Venue: Gurney Paragon Mall

Gurney Paragon Mall will be organising a series of ‘green’ events in conjunction with the 43^rd International Earth Day. The main objective of this event is to promote the concept of the 3Rs –Reduce, Reuse, Recycle in our daily life, and to create public awareness to remind the general public about the beauty of Mother Nature. The activities during these two days include a photo exhibition and photography sharing session, children’s colouring contest and a ‘green market’. 

Top photographer, Mr Song Jin Tek has been invited to showcase his masterpieces at Gurney Paragon Mall, at St Jo’s Level 1, on 20 and 21 April from 12pm to 10pm. Song will also hold a photography sharing session with photography enthusiasts with the themes ‘Tips & Techniques to Capture Natural Scenery’on 20th April at 3pm, and ‘Tips & Techniques to Capture Flora and Fauna’ on 21st April at 3pm. The public are requested to register via 012-4253937 as this is based on a first-come-first-serve basis. Aside from Mr Song Jin Tek’s exhibition, the Sun Seekers’ members will also be exhibiting their photo collections with the theme ‘Tribute to the Mother Earth’, also at St Jo’s Level 1 during these two days. Sun Seekers is an association formed by a group of amateur photography enthusiasts.

A Children’s Colouring Contest will be held on 21st April, from 4pm onwards at Festive Square. This Earth-Day themed contest is categorized into 2 groups for children aged 7-9 years old and children aged 10-12 years old. The winners of this colouring contest will bring home fabulous prizes worth RM1200. Children who wish to participate in the contests are required to register by 15th April by calling 04-2288266 or email their particulars to janicelim@hunzagroup.com / looal@hunzagroup.com. 

Finally, a ‘Green Market’ selling various organic products, table plants, handmade handbags, accessories, home-baked cakes and pastries will also be held on 20th & 21st April, from 12pm to 10pm. On top of that, face painting for children and clown appearance will also take place on 21 April, 4.30pm onwards. For more information, call 04-2288266.

Piano Solo/Duet Instrumental Performance Competition

Audition Date: 15 June 2013

Time: 2pm

Venue: Gurney Plaza

Gurney Plaza will be organizing a Piano Solo/Duet Instrumental Performance competition in conjunction with it’s Music Festival in June. The competition is opened to everyone aged 13 and above. The duration of the performance must not be more than 8 minutes. For duet performances; the contestant can choose a saxophone, guitar of flute to accompany the piano. 20 contestants will be chosen to go to the finals which will be held on 22^nd of June 2013 at 2pm.

The 1^st prize winner will receive cash voucher of RM1000, a Casio Keyboard worth RM 1450 and goodie bags by Evolution Music House. The 2^nd prize winner will receive a cash voucher RM 800 and a Casio Keyboard worth RM 1190 while the 3^rd Prize winner will receive a cash voucher worth RM 600 and a Casio Keyboard worth RM720.

Aside from the piano competition, there will also be a Hawaiian-Ukulele & Percussion Performance on the 15 June 2013 (8pm) and a VDrum Competition on the 23 June 2013, 2pm.

For more information and registration please contact Justina Tan at 04-2228 130.

White Curry Mee

BY CK Lam

Hot Bowl is home to Penang Curry Mee and Pek Cham Kei. This place located in Abu Siti Lane offers mouth-watering curry mee. Their version affectionately known to locals as White Curry Mee comes with a lighter pale color coconut based broth.

The business is run by Mr Ho Peng Song and he has been selling the curry mee for over two decades. The curry mee is served with dried tofu pok (tau pok), cuttlefish, pig’s coagulated blood cubes and bloody cockles

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Customers can spice up and enhance the flavour of the curry mee with additional homemade chilli paste. Ready-bottled chilli paste is made ready for sale too. 

Besides curry mee, Hot Bowl also serve Hainanese Chicken or known to locals as Pek Cham Kei. The chicken is steamed and refrigerated immediately. The slightly cold and tender chicken is served deboned with cucumber, soy sauce gravy, sesame oil and garnished with spring onions. A dish of crunchy bean sprouts is an excellent complement with the chicken. 

Hot Bowl is opened daily from 8am to 3pm except Mondays.

Hot Bowl Curry Mee
16A Lorong Abu Siti
10400 Penang

Tel: 04-227 3168

Written by CK Lam, food blogger and editor of http://www.what2seeonline.com; featuring the Best of Penang Food. She constantly combs Penang for the best gastronomical delights besides sharing photos of Penang culture and heritage at: http://www.penang365.com