Komtar Tower Run 2010
6am, Saturday, 5 June 2010
http://www.komtartowerrun.com.my/index.htm
Saturday, 27 March 2010
Komtar Tower Run 2010
Friday, 26 March 2010
Snake Temple
Snake Temple was built in 1850 in memory of the renowned Chinese monk Chor Soo Kong. The Snake Temple is situated in the small town of Bayan Lepas on the edge of a highway and is famous for the fact that it has pit vipers living within the temple grounds. Legend has it that Chor Soo Kong, who was also a healer, gave shelter to the snakes of jungle. After the completion of the temple, snakes appeared on their own accord. Today, the snake population of the Temple of the Azure Cloud is very small, due to the urbanization of the area, but you can still see them coiled up on the altar tables, and you can touch them, if you are brave enough. Originally, the snakes were said to be rendered harmless by the smell of the burning incense, but today, to be safe, the resident vipers are devenomed.
There is a snake museum beside the temple where there are snakes galore and you can see a staff member occasionally handling an albino Burmese python. Museum admission RM5 for adults, free admission for temple (9am to 6pm). Take Rapid Penang bus 401 or 401A from KOMTAR bus terminal.
-Info courtesy of Wikitravel-
Famed heritage losing its glory
Famed heritage losing its glory
THE history galleries at the Fort Cornwallis in George Town, Penang has been hit by leakages, cracks and regular breakdowns of the air-conditioning system.
The nine gallery rooms were also found to be poorly lit with its paint peeling off. The wording on the information booths inside the galleries were also fading off.
Japanese tourist Ishikawa Akiichiro, 57, who was touring George Town for a day described the galleries as boring.
“I was expecting to find out about the history of the fort from the galleries but it is very disappointing,” he said when met at the fort grounds.
American engineer Michael Dillon, 34, said the galleries could be better improved with sufficient funding.
“Besides the galleries, the fort management can also look into repairing some of the facilities which are on the verge of collapsing such as the fencing around a historical excavation site,” he said.
Another American tourist Jake Lippa, 29, a researcher, said the historical information was good but he decided not to visit the remaining galleries after visiting the first two because it was “simply too hot inside”.
He said although the galleries, which were originally cell rooms, were part of the fort’s rich historical landscape, it could be updated to a certain extent without disturbing its historical significance.
British administrator Corrine Cridge, 27, and her optometrist boyfriend Ben Royal, 24, said the fort management could look into employing a guide who could provide a verbal explanation of the fort’s history instead of merely displaying the information.
However, they said the fort was nicer than what they had expected, adding that they would definitely recommend the place to friends who were keen to visit the place.
-News courtesy of The Star-
THE history galleries at the Fort Cornwallis in George Town, Penang has been hit by leakages, cracks and regular breakdowns of the air-conditioning system.
The nine gallery rooms were also found to be poorly lit with its paint peeling off. The wording on the information booths inside the galleries were also fading off.
Japanese tourist Ishikawa Akiichiro, 57, who was touring George Town for a day described the galleries as boring.
“I was expecting to find out about the history of the fort from the galleries but it is very disappointing,” he said when met at the fort grounds.
American engineer Michael Dillon, 34, said the galleries could be better improved with sufficient funding.
“Besides the galleries, the fort management can also look into repairing some of the facilities which are on the verge of collapsing such as the fencing around a historical excavation site,” he said.
Another American tourist Jake Lippa, 29, a researcher, said the historical information was good but he decided not to visit the remaining galleries after visiting the first two because it was “simply too hot inside”.
He said although the galleries, which were originally cell rooms, were part of the fort’s rich historical landscape, it could be updated to a certain extent without disturbing its historical significance.
British administrator Corrine Cridge, 27, and her optometrist boyfriend Ben Royal, 24, said the fort management could look into employing a guide who could provide a verbal explanation of the fort’s history instead of merely displaying the information.
However, they said the fort was nicer than what they had expected, adding that they would definitely recommend the place to friends who were keen to visit the place.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Cultural fair
Cultural fair
Island Plaza in Penang is holding a Japanese Fair from 10am to 10pm until Sunday. Activities include drawing demonstration, handicraft, traditional dance and kendo performances. All are welcome.
Island Plaza in Penang is holding a Japanese Fair from 10am to 10pm until Sunday. Activities include drawing demonstration, handicraft, traditional dance and kendo performances. All are welcome.
Monday, 22 March 2010
Heritage boost for Penang
PENANG’S UNESCO world heritage site will soon boast of having the country’s first ‘cultural hotel’.
Property owner K.H. Seah said three pre-war houses along Jalan Pintal Tali would be restored and re-opened as a high-end hotel to be named ‘1881 Chong Tian Cultural Hotel’.
“These triple storey buildings, which have been around for over a century, is located in where I hope to develop as Penang’s Chinatown.
“We want to revive that area and make sure that it becomes a living heritage,” he said in an interview yesterday.
Big plans: The three pre-war houses along Jalan Pintal Tali will be restored and reopened as a high-end hotel to be named ‘1881 Chong Tian Cultural Hotel’.
Seah, who owns a stretch of 13 other heritage houses in the area, said he would refurbish the other premises which he planned to rejuvenate and promote as Chinatown.
“We have Little India and the Malay Kapitan heritage enclaves here but no Chinatown.
“This cultural hotel will be a start for us to create a specific area where everyone can come and learn about Chinese culture,” he said.
Work on the cultural hotel will start at the end of the month and is expected to complete by the end of the year.
Seah said he was hoping to get the Unesco Conservation Award for his efforts, adding that the uniqueness of the cultural hotel was that it would have a library, mini cafe and museum featuring extensive antique collections dating back to the 18th century.
“I am an antique collector and have received many pledges from other collectors to help stock up the library and museum.
Priceless piece: The intricately carved wooden door in one of the three houses will be preserved.
“The library resources and exhibition area will be free for everyone because one of our main objectives is to propagate the Chinese culture brought here by our ancestors,” he said.
Seah and his partners have invested RM2mil to purchase the three lots and will need another RM1.5mil to refurbish the place in accordance to heritage guidelines.
“The interior is termite-infested and there are trees growing within the building causing the structure to crack.
“Think City Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Khazanah Holdings (a federal investment arm), has agreed to assist with the funding,” he said.
“They will meet on Wednesday to decide on how much allocation the project will receive,” he said.
Cultural Heritage Advisory Group member and project consultant Tan Yeow Wooi said the 19th century buildings had many unique features including Venetian windows and intricate Chinese motifs of peonies, dragons and cockerels on the facade.
“There is also a very nice Cantonese-style sliding door with intricate carvings,” he said. — CHRISTINA CHIN
-News courtesy of The Star-
Property owner K.H. Seah said three pre-war houses along Jalan Pintal Tali would be restored and re-opened as a high-end hotel to be named ‘1881 Chong Tian Cultural Hotel’.
“These triple storey buildings, which have been around for over a century, is located in where I hope to develop as Penang’s Chinatown.
“We want to revive that area and make sure that it becomes a living heritage,” he said in an interview yesterday.
Big plans: The three pre-war houses along Jalan Pintal Tali will be restored and reopened as a high-end hotel to be named ‘1881 Chong Tian Cultural Hotel’.
Seah, who owns a stretch of 13 other heritage houses in the area, said he would refurbish the other premises which he planned to rejuvenate and promote as Chinatown.
“We have Little India and the Malay Kapitan heritage enclaves here but no Chinatown.
“This cultural hotel will be a start for us to create a specific area where everyone can come and learn about Chinese culture,” he said.
Work on the cultural hotel will start at the end of the month and is expected to complete by the end of the year.
Seah said he was hoping to get the Unesco Conservation Award for his efforts, adding that the uniqueness of the cultural hotel was that it would have a library, mini cafe and museum featuring extensive antique collections dating back to the 18th century.
“I am an antique collector and have received many pledges from other collectors to help stock up the library and museum.
Priceless piece: The intricately carved wooden door in one of the three houses will be preserved.
“The library resources and exhibition area will be free for everyone because one of our main objectives is to propagate the Chinese culture brought here by our ancestors,” he said.
Seah and his partners have invested RM2mil to purchase the three lots and will need another RM1.5mil to refurbish the place in accordance to heritage guidelines.
“The interior is termite-infested and there are trees growing within the building causing the structure to crack.
“Think City Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Khazanah Holdings (a federal investment arm), has agreed to assist with the funding,” he said.
“They will meet on Wednesday to decide on how much allocation the project will receive,” he said.
Cultural Heritage Advisory Group member and project consultant Tan Yeow Wooi said the 19th century buildings had many unique features including Venetian windows and intricate Chinese motifs of peonies, dragons and cockerels on the facade.
“There is also a very nice Cantonese-style sliding door with intricate carvings,” he said. — CHRISTINA CHIN
-News courtesy of The Star-
New Lane goes one way
From today New Lane will be turned into a one-way street with traffic going towards Macalister Road between 4pm and midnight daily.
Komtar assemblyman Ng Wei Aik said the one-way traffic proposal was tabled during the Penang Municipal Council’s Infra-structure and Traffic Committee meeting on Jan 21 and endorsed during a full council meeting on Feb 25.
“The proposal was mooted following several road accidents and complaints about the traffic congestion in New Lane which had been given a temporary hawkers’ site status by the council.
“The one-way traffic system will start from 4pm when hawkers start their business and end at midnight except for Wednesday because the stalls are closed on that day,” he told reporters during a visit to the area yesterday.
New direction: Rela personnel will be on hand to direct traffic at New Lane in George Town.
“We had earlier sent out 300 notices to residents in the area, traders, hawkers and the Sunway Hotel. We only received two objections and this is why the council decided to impose the one-way system only from 4pm.”
He said residents, traders, hawkers, hotel guests and motorists could drive into the hawker site at New Lane via Kek Chuan Lane or Jalan Datuk Keramat.
“The hawker site went back some 20 years when about 40 illegal hawkers were relocated there from their Macalister Road,” he said.
Ng said the one-way system would be implemented on a trial basis for a month.
“During the trial run, Rela personnel will be stationed there from 4pm to midnight to help re-direct traffic and four ‘No-Entry’ signs will be placed at the New Lane/Macalister Road junction.
“If the trial exercise goes on smoothly, then the one-way system will be a permanent feature,” he said.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Komtar assemblyman Ng Wei Aik said the one-way traffic proposal was tabled during the Penang Municipal Council’s Infra-structure and Traffic Committee meeting on Jan 21 and endorsed during a full council meeting on Feb 25.
“The proposal was mooted following several road accidents and complaints about the traffic congestion in New Lane which had been given a temporary hawkers’ site status by the council.
“The one-way traffic system will start from 4pm when hawkers start their business and end at midnight except for Wednesday because the stalls are closed on that day,” he told reporters during a visit to the area yesterday.
New direction: Rela personnel will be on hand to direct traffic at New Lane in George Town.
“We had earlier sent out 300 notices to residents in the area, traders, hawkers and the Sunway Hotel. We only received two objections and this is why the council decided to impose the one-way system only from 4pm.”
He said residents, traders, hawkers, hotel guests and motorists could drive into the hawker site at New Lane via Kek Chuan Lane or Jalan Datuk Keramat.
“The hawker site went back some 20 years when about 40 illegal hawkers were relocated there from their Macalister Road,” he said.
Ng said the one-way system would be implemented on a trial basis for a month.
“During the trial run, Rela personnel will be stationed there from 4pm to midnight to help re-direct traffic and four ‘No-Entry’ signs will be placed at the New Lane/Macalister Road junction.
“If the trial exercise goes on smoothly, then the one-way system will be a permanent feature,” he said.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Thursday, 18 March 2010
Handicraft attraction
Handicraft attraction
SOUVENIRS and handicraft of Penang will soon be available under one roof, said state Tourism Development and Culture Committee chairman Danny Law.
“We are thinking of setting up a night market at the Esplanade selling such items and also women’s accessories and clothing,” he said.
“Our concept is simple. We want to have a place where tourists in Penang can source for the best bargain in souvenirs and handicraft.
“For a start, we plan to have 30 stalls operating during weekends. The stalls will be placed in front of the 30-odd Celebrity Walk trees along Light Street.”
Law said countries like Thailand, Taiwan and China boast night markets which are deemed must-visit sites.
He added that his office and the Penang Municipal Council had started looking for traders.
“We hope that these traders will come out with unique, distinctive and homemade handicraft and souvenirs which cannot be found elsewhere,” he said.
Those interested can call his office (04-2619012.
He said talks would also be held with cruise operators to bring their passengers to the market.
“Cruise passengers will have another attraction to visit while stopping over on the island,” he said.
“It is just a short walk to the night market from the Tanjung City Marina where the vessels are berthed.
“I will submit a layout plan to the council for approval.
“We have yet to fix the operating hours but they are likely to be from 6pm to 10pm or 7pm to 11pm.”
-News courtesy of The Star-
SOUVENIRS and handicraft of Penang will soon be available under one roof, said state Tourism Development and Culture Committee chairman Danny Law.
“We are thinking of setting up a night market at the Esplanade selling such items and also women’s accessories and clothing,” he said.
“Our concept is simple. We want to have a place where tourists in Penang can source for the best bargain in souvenirs and handicraft.
“For a start, we plan to have 30 stalls operating during weekends. The stalls will be placed in front of the 30-odd Celebrity Walk trees along Light Street.”
Law said countries like Thailand, Taiwan and China boast night markets which are deemed must-visit sites.
He added that his office and the Penang Municipal Council had started looking for traders.
“We hope that these traders will come out with unique, distinctive and homemade handicraft and souvenirs which cannot be found elsewhere,” he said.
Those interested can call his office (04-2619012.
He said talks would also be held with cruise operators to bring their passengers to the market.
“Cruise passengers will have another attraction to visit while stopping over on the island,” he said.
“It is just a short walk to the night market from the Tanjung City Marina where the vessels are berthed.
“I will submit a layout plan to the council for approval.
“We have yet to fix the operating hours but they are likely to be from 6pm to 10pm or 7pm to 11pm.”
-News courtesy of The Star-
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
Jazz concert
Jazz concert
Jazz musicians WVC TRiO+1 comprising Tay Cher Siang, Vincent Ong, Adam Osmianski and Benjamin Lee are having a concert at the Cititel Penang from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Sunday. Tickets are priced at RM15 for students and RM25 for adults and ticket holders are entitled to attend a workshop from 4.30pm to 6pm. For details, call Jammin Senzation at 04-6595122.
Jazz musicians WVC TRiO+1 comprising Tay Cher Siang, Vincent Ong, Adam Osmianski and Benjamin Lee are having a concert at the Cititel Penang from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Sunday. Tickets are priced at RM15 for students and RM25 for adults and ticket holders are entitled to attend a workshop from 4.30pm to 6pm. For details, call Jammin Senzation at 04-6595122.
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Motorcycle show
Motorcycle show
Vintage motorcycles will be on show at the Jury Autocity on March 27. The 8pm ‘2Wheels Classic Showcase’ will feature a lineup of rare motorcycles. Call 017-5231688 for details.
Juru Autocity
http://www.autocity.com.my/
Vintage motorcycles will be on show at the Jury Autocity on March 27. The 8pm ‘2Wheels Classic Showcase’ will feature a lineup of rare motorcycles. Call 017-5231688 for details.
Juru Autocity
http://www.autocity.com.my/
Bus 102 to ply Teluk Bahang
‘Rock Route’ 102 to ply Teluk Bahang tourism belt
BUS passengers can now ride Rapid Penang buses direct from Penang International Airport in Bayan Lepas to the tourism belts of Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang respectively, effective yesterday.
With the new route, commuters no longer have to transit at the Weld Quay bus terminal to take the journey to Teluk Bahang.
The direct route, described as the ‘Rock Route’ since the bus would be passing by Hard Rock Hotel on its way to Teluk Bahang, would only cost a flat rate of RM5 from the airport to Teluk Bahang and vice versa.
Rapid Penang chief executive officer Azhar Ahmad said residents living in Bayan Lepas, Bayan Baru and Gelugor area who were working in Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang, as well as those living in Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang but working in the Free Trade Zone in Bayan Lepas, would be the ones to benefit from this service apart from airline passengers.
The first bus for the Rock Route — 102 — starts at 5.30am while the last departs at 10pm.
“Rapid Penang hopes to reduce the use of private vehicles. This would ease the traffic congestion on Penang island,” he said after launching the new route at Hard Rock Hotel yesterday.
Azhar said Rapid Penang had also extended its Route 306 from the airport to Penang Hospital by plying through the Paya Terubong and Air Itam areas.
“The residents here can now travel to Penang Hospital conveniently.
“This is in line with our initiative as a caring and responsible corporate company that also oversees the social needs of our commuters,” he said.
The first bus for Route 306 starts at 6am while the last departs at 10.30pm.
“Four buses will ply the 102 and 306 routes respectively, with the frequency of an hourly interval,” he said.
The journey from the start to end point of both routes will take around one hour and 30 minutes, depending on the traffic flow.
Azhar said Rapid Penang would also be ceasing operations of its Route 401A from the airport to Weld Quay.
“However, commuters at the airport will still be able to commute on the Route 401 and 401E buses from Balik Pulau to Komtar and Weld Quay,” he said.
Rapid Penang's website
-News courtesy of The Star-
BUS passengers can now ride Rapid Penang buses direct from Penang International Airport in Bayan Lepas to the tourism belts of Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang respectively, effective yesterday.
With the new route, commuters no longer have to transit at the Weld Quay bus terminal to take the journey to Teluk Bahang.
The direct route, described as the ‘Rock Route’ since the bus would be passing by Hard Rock Hotel on its way to Teluk Bahang, would only cost a flat rate of RM5 from the airport to Teluk Bahang and vice versa.
Rapid Penang chief executive officer Azhar Ahmad said residents living in Bayan Lepas, Bayan Baru and Gelugor area who were working in Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang, as well as those living in Tanjung Bungah, Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang but working in the Free Trade Zone in Bayan Lepas, would be the ones to benefit from this service apart from airline passengers.
The first bus for the Rock Route — 102 — starts at 5.30am while the last departs at 10pm.
“Rapid Penang hopes to reduce the use of private vehicles. This would ease the traffic congestion on Penang island,” he said after launching the new route at Hard Rock Hotel yesterday.
Azhar said Rapid Penang had also extended its Route 306 from the airport to Penang Hospital by plying through the Paya Terubong and Air Itam areas.
“The residents here can now travel to Penang Hospital conveniently.
“This is in line with our initiative as a caring and responsible corporate company that also oversees the social needs of our commuters,” he said.
The first bus for Route 306 starts at 6am while the last departs at 10.30pm.
“Four buses will ply the 102 and 306 routes respectively, with the frequency of an hourly interval,” he said.
The journey from the start to end point of both routes will take around one hour and 30 minutes, depending on the traffic flow.
Azhar said Rapid Penang would also be ceasing operations of its Route 401A from the airport to Weld Quay.
“However, commuters at the airport will still be able to commute on the Route 401 and 401E buses from Balik Pulau to Komtar and Weld Quay,” he said.
Rapid Penang's website
-News courtesy of The Star-
Saturday, 13 March 2010
Event with a twist
Event with a twist
The 3.8km walk will be flagged off at Padang Polo on Jalan Sepoy Lines in Penang by Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas at 8am.
Organising chairperson Beatrice Lam said a sighted person would lead another sighted walker who would be blindfolded during the walk.
“We hope to get 3,000 participants and raise RM100,000 which will be channelled to St Nicholas Home,” she said.
The route will take walkers along Jalan Utama, Jalan Brown, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Cantonment, Jalan Macalister and Jalan Residensi before finishing back at Jalan Sepoy Lines.
The fee is RM15 per person. To participate or donate, call Lam at 012-4889289 or St Nicholas Home at 04-2290800.
Penang-Guangzhou flights increase
Airline increases Penang-Guangzhou flights
CHINA Southern Airlines is increasing its number of flights for the Penang-Guangzhou route and vice versa from four per week to daily flights, effective April 1.
Its general manager Terry Deng told a press conference yesterday that the rationale for increasing the number of flights was because of the region’s improved economy.
“We believe it is possible now to increase passenger traffic to Penang from Guangzhou and vice versa. Our move will also enable us to attract more passengers from Indonesia and Thailand,” he said.
Also present at the press conference were Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and state Tourism Development, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Danny Law.
Deng said the airline was targeting to fly 2,000 passengers daily on the Penang-Guangzhou route, compared to over 1,000 presently.
He also said the new arrival time in Penang, starting next month, would be 8.35pm instead of the present 11pm.
“The change is to allow our passengers time to travel out of Penang.
“The new arrival time in Guangzhou is being shifted to 12.55pm instead of noon presently to cut short the transit time for our passengers,” he said.
-News courtesy of The Star-
CHINA Southern Airlines is increasing its number of flights for the Penang-Guangzhou route and vice versa from four per week to daily flights, effective April 1.
Its general manager Terry Deng told a press conference yesterday that the rationale for increasing the number of flights was because of the region’s improved economy.
“We believe it is possible now to increase passenger traffic to Penang from Guangzhou and vice versa. Our move will also enable us to attract more passengers from Indonesia and Thailand,” he said.
Also present at the press conference were Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and state Tourism Development, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Danny Law.
Deng said the airline was targeting to fly 2,000 passengers daily on the Penang-Guangzhou route, compared to over 1,000 presently.
He also said the new arrival time in Penang, starting next month, would be 8.35pm instead of the present 11pm.
“The change is to allow our passengers time to travel out of Penang.
“The new arrival time in Guangzhou is being shifted to 12.55pm instead of noon presently to cut short the transit time for our passengers,” he said.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
Penang Activities
Colouring competition
The Kuntum-McDonald’s Colouring Com-petition will be held from 8am to 1pm at the D’Piazza Mall in Bayan Baru, Penang, on Saturday. The competition is for primary school pupils and divided into two categories. For details, call Kam at 04-6473399.
Buddha relics
The Maitreya Relics Tour will be held at Chokyi Gyaltsen Centre (CGC), 37-Y Lorong Zoo 1, off Zoo Road, Air Itam, Penang, this weekend. The exhibition is open free to the public daily from 10am to 7pm on both days. The relics are those of Shakyamuni Buddha and other Buddhist masters. The relics resemble beautiful, pearl-like crystals. For details, call Chew at 012-5379389 or Daniel Yeoh at 012-3810622.
KDU roadshow
SPM school leavers who are interested in pursuing a career in design are invited to attend a KDU College roadshow at Gurney Plaza from Friday to Sunday (10am to 10pm. For details, call 04-2266368.
CSR seminar
Universiti Sains Malaysia’s communication students are holding a two-day seminar on ‘Corporate Social Responsibility Efforts by University for the Environment’ from Saturday at the School of Communi-cation (C10 Building). For details, call project director Rajeswary at 014-6170746 or email nemgrads10rajes@gmail.com.
Career path
There will be a talk on career and further education for SPM and STPM leavers at Dewan Sri Pinang on Sunday. It is open to students and parents. Admission is free. For details, call Premila at 012-4073164, Shanmugam (012-4502225) or Sivakumar (012-4052306).
Meet-the-people session
The Penang Municipal Council will hold its monthly meet-the-people session on March 19 from 3pm to 5pm at Komtar Level Four (Bilik Minda). For details, call 04-2637637.
Computer class
YWCA Penang is organising a two-month-long computer class for senior citizens from April 3 (11am to noon) at its 8A Jalan Masjid Negri premises. The fee is RM20 per person. For registration, call 04-8281855/04-8280741.
Charity walk
A blind folded charity walk will be held on April 11 at Padang Polo to raise funds for St Nicholas Home. Lucky draw prizes include a motorcycle, LCD television and a laptop. For details, call 04-2290800 or log on to www.walkforsight.com.
English workshop
Wawasan Open University (WOU) will hold a two-day workshop for teachers on the teaching of second cycle of literary texts for KBSM English Language at WOU Penang on Saturday (Form One texts) and Sunday (Form Four texts) from 9am to 5pm. For details, call Mohan (03-92817323).
Flea market
The Malaysian-German Society Penang will hold its annual open day together with a flea market from 3pm onwards on March 20 at its premises at 250B Jalan Air Itam. There will be lots of German food, homemade cakes and bargains at the flea market. All are welcome. Those interested to set up a stall can call Caryn at 04-2296853.
-Info courtesy of The Star-
The Kuntum-McDonald’s Colouring Com-petition will be held from 8am to 1pm at the D’Piazza Mall in Bayan Baru, Penang, on Saturday. The competition is for primary school pupils and divided into two categories. For details, call Kam at 04-6473399.
Buddha relics
The Maitreya Relics Tour will be held at Chokyi Gyaltsen Centre (CGC), 37-Y Lorong Zoo 1, off Zoo Road, Air Itam, Penang, this weekend. The exhibition is open free to the public daily from 10am to 7pm on both days. The relics are those of Shakyamuni Buddha and other Buddhist masters. The relics resemble beautiful, pearl-like crystals. For details, call Chew at 012-5379389 or Daniel Yeoh at 012-3810622.
KDU roadshow
SPM school leavers who are interested in pursuing a career in design are invited to attend a KDU College roadshow at Gurney Plaza from Friday to Sunday (10am to 10pm. For details, call 04-2266368.
CSR seminar
Universiti Sains Malaysia’s communication students are holding a two-day seminar on ‘Corporate Social Responsibility Efforts by University for the Environment’ from Saturday at the School of Communi-cation (C10 Building). For details, call project director Rajeswary at 014-6170746 or email nemgrads10rajes@gmail.com.
Career path
There will be a talk on career and further education for SPM and STPM leavers at Dewan Sri Pinang on Sunday. It is open to students and parents. Admission is free. For details, call Premila at 012-4073164, Shanmugam (012-4502225) or Sivakumar (012-4052306).
Meet-the-people session
The Penang Municipal Council will hold its monthly meet-the-people session on March 19 from 3pm to 5pm at Komtar Level Four (Bilik Minda). For details, call 04-2637637.
Computer class
YWCA Penang is organising a two-month-long computer class for senior citizens from April 3 (11am to noon) at its 8A Jalan Masjid Negri premises. The fee is RM20 per person. For registration, call 04-8281855/04-8280741.
Charity walk
A blind folded charity walk will be held on April 11 at Padang Polo to raise funds for St Nicholas Home. Lucky draw prizes include a motorcycle, LCD television and a laptop. For details, call 04-2290800 or log on to www.walkforsight.com.
English workshop
Wawasan Open University (WOU) will hold a two-day workshop for teachers on the teaching of second cycle of literary texts for KBSM English Language at WOU Penang on Saturday (Form One texts) and Sunday (Form Four texts) from 9am to 5pm. For details, call Mohan (03-92817323).
Flea market
The Malaysian-German Society Penang will hold its annual open day together with a flea market from 3pm onwards on March 20 at its premises at 250B Jalan Air Itam. There will be lots of German food, homemade cakes and bargains at the flea market. All are welcome. Those interested to set up a stall can call Caryn at 04-2296853.
-Info courtesy of The Star-
Saturday, 6 March 2010
4WDs start plying Penang Hill
DESPITE the shutdown of the Penang Hill funicular train service up to the hill, tourists and locals wishing to admire the magnificent views of the island from atop can still do so by taking 4WD rides to the peak.
Jeep rides are available next to the entrance of the Botanic Gardens in Jalan Kebun Bunga.
Tourists won’t miss it as there is a ‘Penang Hill 4X4 Jeep Service” banner strung up prominently.
The funicular train, which had been running since 1923, ceased operations on Feb 22.
The 87-year-old funicular railway will be closed for at least seven months to make way for a RM63mil system complete with a new Swiss-made coach, cable, control panel, electrical switch box, gear and haul cable.
Penang Hill Residents Association secretary Beh Chin Siang said the jeep service is priced at RM15 per person for a return trip.
“Each 4WD is able to take four persons but if the tourists do not want to wait until the seats are filled, we can also provide the service at RM60 per jeep.
“There are about 10 to 12 jeeps on stand by daily.
“The ride will take less than 30 minutes and other than lush greenery, tourists will be in awe of the island’s panoramic view from 830m above sea level,” he said.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Jeep rides are available next to the entrance of the Botanic Gardens in Jalan Kebun Bunga.
Tourists won’t miss it as there is a ‘Penang Hill 4X4 Jeep Service” banner strung up prominently.
The funicular train, which had been running since 1923, ceased operations on Feb 22.
The 87-year-old funicular railway will be closed for at least seven months to make way for a RM63mil system complete with a new Swiss-made coach, cable, control panel, electrical switch box, gear and haul cable.
Penang Hill Residents Association secretary Beh Chin Siang said the jeep service is priced at RM15 per person for a return trip.
“Each 4WD is able to take four persons but if the tourists do not want to wait until the seats are filled, we can also provide the service at RM60 per jeep.
“There are about 10 to 12 jeeps on stand by daily.
“The ride will take less than 30 minutes and other than lush greenery, tourists will be in awe of the island’s panoramic view from 830m above sea level,” he said.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Enlightening tale
Enlightening tale
PENANGITES are in for a treat when The Siddhartha Musical Show makes its debut at Dewan Sri Pinang from March 19 to 21.
The proceeds from ticket sales of the musical show will go to Phor Tay Private School, Pu Ai Building Fund of Medicine Buddha Hall and Community Hall and CGC Buddhist Study Centre Building Fund.
Fundraising committee chairman Datin Goh Suat Guat said The Musical On Stage Productions (MOSP), a musical group from Kuala Lumpur, had brought the show to various cities including Singapore, Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Jakarta.
She said the three-hour show, with a 15-minute interval, would be presented in two acts and 19 scenes.
“More than 200 costume pieces, headgears and accessories have been made according to the ethnic styles and flavour of the ancient Indian period,” she said.
The story revolves around Prince Siddhartha, who was born in B.C. 464 in ancient India where people were divided by a caste system.
Once, he chanced upon the sights of birth, aging, sickness and death, and was awakened to the suffering of mankind.
With a determination to end all suffering, he went on a poignant sojourn in search of truth in life and the universe.
After years of practice, he finally attained enlightenment and became The Buddha.
The three-day show will start at 8pm, with an extra show to be slotted in on the last day at 2pm. Tickets are priced at RM50, RM70 and RM100.
For details on ticket sales, call 04-2271469, 04-6414822, 012-4076490 or 012-4386228.
More information can be found at www.musicalonstage.com.
-News courtesy of The Star-
PENANGITES are in for a treat when The Siddhartha Musical Show makes its debut at Dewan Sri Pinang from March 19 to 21.
The proceeds from ticket sales of the musical show will go to Phor Tay Private School, Pu Ai Building Fund of Medicine Buddha Hall and Community Hall and CGC Buddhist Study Centre Building Fund.
Fundraising committee chairman Datin Goh Suat Guat said The Musical On Stage Productions (MOSP), a musical group from Kuala Lumpur, had brought the show to various cities including Singapore, Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Jakarta.
She said the three-hour show, with a 15-minute interval, would be presented in two acts and 19 scenes.
“More than 200 costume pieces, headgears and accessories have been made according to the ethnic styles and flavour of the ancient Indian period,” she said.
The story revolves around Prince Siddhartha, who was born in B.C. 464 in ancient India where people were divided by a caste system.
Once, he chanced upon the sights of birth, aging, sickness and death, and was awakened to the suffering of mankind.
With a determination to end all suffering, he went on a poignant sojourn in search of truth in life and the universe.
After years of practice, he finally attained enlightenment and became The Buddha.
The three-day show will start at 8pm, with an extra show to be slotted in on the last day at 2pm. Tickets are priced at RM50, RM70 and RM100.
For details on ticket sales, call 04-2271469, 04-6414822, 012-4076490 or 012-4386228.
More information can be found at www.musicalonstage.com.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Thursday, 4 March 2010
Lights of Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok Si Temple
THE 119-year-old Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang has become a night attraction during this Chinese New Year festive season with visitors thronging its grounds to snap photos of themselves amidst a backdrop of over 10,000 lanterns and 230,000 decorative bulbs that adorn the temple complex.
Photographic Society of Penang adviser Song Jin Teik, 72, said the temple had always been a haven for enthusiastic shutterbugs during this time of the year as it was only then that it would be so beautifully lit up.
“My friends from other states and countries always ask me to bring them to our ‘secret spot’ to capture the best view of the colourful pagodas and ornate rooftops in dazzling multi-coloured lights,” he said.
Temple trustee Datuk Steven Ooi said the crowd visiting the temple complex had doubled this year compared to the Chinese New Year season last year.
“Many of them came with the purpose of enjoying the night view, especially following the completion of the 20-storey pavilion housing the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin) statue,” he said when contacted recently.
Among the visitors were couple Janet Tan and Bryan Moh, both 25, who would make it an annual affair to visit the temple during the Chinese New Year season.
“It is always a must-do thing during Chinese New Year to come here and snap some beautiful photos.
“This year is definitely more worthwhile since we also get to take photos with the pavilion,” said graphic artist Moh.
The temple had recently earned three entries in the Malaysia Book of Records — the tallest pavilion at 89.23m, the tallest bronze Goddess of Mercy statue at 33.67m, and the tallest granite pillars at 42.24m.
Night visits are allowed only during the first 28 days of the new lunar year which started on Feb 14.
From now till March 13, the festive lights will be switched on from 7pm to 10pm.
-News courtesy of The Star-
THE 119-year-old Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang has become a night attraction during this Chinese New Year festive season with visitors thronging its grounds to snap photos of themselves amidst a backdrop of over 10,000 lanterns and 230,000 decorative bulbs that adorn the temple complex.
Photographic Society of Penang adviser Song Jin Teik, 72, said the temple had always been a haven for enthusiastic shutterbugs during this time of the year as it was only then that it would be so beautifully lit up.
“My friends from other states and countries always ask me to bring them to our ‘secret spot’ to capture the best view of the colourful pagodas and ornate rooftops in dazzling multi-coloured lights,” he said.
Temple trustee Datuk Steven Ooi said the crowd visiting the temple complex had doubled this year compared to the Chinese New Year season last year.
“Many of them came with the purpose of enjoying the night view, especially following the completion of the 20-storey pavilion housing the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin) statue,” he said when contacted recently.
Among the visitors were couple Janet Tan and Bryan Moh, both 25, who would make it an annual affair to visit the temple during the Chinese New Year season.
“It is always a must-do thing during Chinese New Year to come here and snap some beautiful photos.
“This year is definitely more worthwhile since we also get to take photos with the pavilion,” said graphic artist Moh.
The temple had recently earned three entries in the Malaysia Book of Records — the tallest pavilion at 89.23m, the tallest bronze Goddess of Mercy statue at 33.67m, and the tallest granite pillars at 42.24m.
Night visits are allowed only during the first 28 days of the new lunar year which started on Feb 14.
From now till March 13, the festive lights will be switched on from 7pm to 10pm.
-News courtesy of The Star-
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