More flights to Langkawi and Penang
FIREFLY will be introducing additional flights from Senai International Airport, Johor to Langkawi and Penang, from May 27 to June 12 in conjunction with the coming school holidays.
“This added service will give our southern passengers wiser choices in spending valuable time with their children. It serves as a perfect opportunity for families to take a break and head up north to Langkawi for a family holiday,” said Firefly head of marketing and communications Angelina Fernandez.
Firefly also offers flights between Johor Baru and Kuching, and between Johor Baru and Kota Kinabalu.
The flights will commence operations on May 19 and June 16 respectively. Both sectors will have a frequency of 14 flights weekly.
For details, visit www.fireflyz.com.my
-News courtesy of The Star-
Thursday, 31 March 2011
Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Cultural carnival at PISA
Cultural carnival at PISA
ABOUT 15,000 people are expected to attend a fun-filled cultural carnival this Saturday at the Penang International Sports Arena.
It is organised by the Penang Indian Development Organisation, its chairman M. Nyanasegaran said entrance to the one-day event is free.
“There will be lots of Indian cultural performances along with games and contests.
“One of the highlights of the event will be the mass ponggal which involves the boiling of milk and rice. More than 1,000 people are expected to participate,” he said.
Nyanasegaran said apart from that, participants will also be able to learn the art of rangoli (decorative designs on floors) and sample traditional Indian food.
He added that people of all culture and races are invited to participate in the carnival which is scheduled to be attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
“Several local artistes will also make their appearances at the event which is from 2pm to 7pm.”
-News courtesy of The Star-
ABOUT 15,000 people are expected to attend a fun-filled cultural carnival this Saturday at the Penang International Sports Arena.
It is organised by the Penang Indian Development Organisation, its chairman M. Nyanasegaran said entrance to the one-day event is free.
“There will be lots of Indian cultural performances along with games and contests.
“One of the highlights of the event will be the mass ponggal which involves the boiling of milk and rice. More than 1,000 people are expected to participate,” he said.
Nyanasegaran said apart from that, participants will also be able to learn the art of rangoli (decorative designs on floors) and sample traditional Indian food.
He added that people of all culture and races are invited to participate in the carnival which is scheduled to be attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
“Several local artistes will also make their appearances at the event which is from 2pm to 7pm.”
-News courtesy of The Star-
Tuesday, 29 March 2011
Service to resume soon
Service to resume soon
Penang Hill funicular train station
THE new Penang Hill funicular train service is expected to be open to the public by next month or May.
Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) director Datuk Lee Kah Choon said the infrastructure and facilities were not ready for visitors yet.
He said the staff were still undergoing training on the new computerised system during daily test runs.
“We want to resume the services as soon as possible too because then we can start earning revenue.
“But the base and middle stations as well as the necessary amenities are not ready,” he said.
“There are cracks on the walls and the ceiling is leaking,” he told the press during a project briefing at the popular tourist attraction yesterday.
He said PHC could not conduct any repair, cleaning and maintenance work for more than a year while the funicular railway was being upgraded.
The new system replaces the 87-year-old funicular railway which was closed in February last year.
Lee added that PHC was also in the midst of ironing out some kinks in the train.
He said initial feedback was that the air conditioning was noisy and not cold enough and the coaches’ ceilings were too low.
“We also need to make sure that passengers can embark and disembark safely and to segregate the passengers from the driver to prevent the latter from being distracted,” he said.
He said PHC was also looking into fencing up the railway tracks.
“High voltage power cables lining the tracks are dangerous and there are snakes under the tracks.
“Fencing up the place will be expensive but we may have to consider it,” he said.
On ticket prices, Lee said they were still being discussed as there was a need to balance affordability with ensuring that there were enough funds to maintain the service.
On March 19, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen officially handed over the completed project to PHC.
The ministry’s RM73mil upgrading project included changing the rail tracks, two Swiss-made air-conditioned coaches, construction of the base station and a public carpark.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Penang Hill funicular train stationTHE new Penang Hill funicular train service is expected to be open to the public by next month or May.
Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) director Datuk Lee Kah Choon said the infrastructure and facilities were not ready for visitors yet.
He said the staff were still undergoing training on the new computerised system during daily test runs.
“We want to resume the services as soon as possible too because then we can start earning revenue.
“But the base and middle stations as well as the necessary amenities are not ready,” he said.
“There are cracks on the walls and the ceiling is leaking,” he told the press during a project briefing at the popular tourist attraction yesterday.
He said PHC could not conduct any repair, cleaning and maintenance work for more than a year while the funicular railway was being upgraded.
The new system replaces the 87-year-old funicular railway which was closed in February last year.
Lee added that PHC was also in the midst of ironing out some kinks in the train.
He said initial feedback was that the air conditioning was noisy and not cold enough and the coaches’ ceilings were too low.
“We also need to make sure that passengers can embark and disembark safely and to segregate the passengers from the driver to prevent the latter from being distracted,” he said.
He said PHC was also looking into fencing up the railway tracks.
“High voltage power cables lining the tracks are dangerous and there are snakes under the tracks.
“Fencing up the place will be expensive but we may have to consider it,” he said.
On ticket prices, Lee said they were still being discussed as there was a need to balance affordability with ensuring that there were enough funds to maintain the service.
On March 19, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen officially handed over the completed project to PHC.
The ministry’s RM73mil upgrading project included changing the rail tracks, two Swiss-made air-conditioned coaches, construction of the base station and a public carpark.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Sunday, 27 March 2011
Penang Hill Scenery
View of Penang Bridge from Penang HilltopPenang Hill bus service - Rapid Penang 204
A new joy ride up the hill
A new joy ride up the hill
A GROUP of Taiwanese travel agents and media personnel, including The Star reporter Christopher Tan, were among the privileged few to have gone up Penang Hill on the new funicular train which has yet to open to the public. Here is Tan’s account of his experience.
The 20-minute ride from the base station to the hilltop was very soothing and relaxing. I rode on the old train at the age of nine and this new service provided a much more pleasant journey. The cabin is more spacious and the windows of the train gave me a good view of the surroundings from where I was seated. The air-conditioning was perfectly controlled.
The seat and back rest are wooden but not uncomfortable for the short ride up the hill, and the fittings felt firm and of good quality.
Tall people may however find it difficult getting into the train as they may have to bend to avoid hitting the overhead lighting and air-conditioning compartment.
The train made several stops along the way up to drop off passengers who are staying on the hill. For these hill residents, the new train will definitely improve their lives and one resident, upon alighting, turned around and gave me the thumbs-up.
During these stops, the Taiwanese visitors were given a wonderful opportunity to take some shots of the beautiful scenery.
I love the ride and I will be telling my friends and other people about it. I know I will be back for more.
Penang Hill Corporation senior assistant manager Sharidah Talib said the Taiwanese group was amongst the first few visitors to experience the new train service following the handover ceremony by the Tourism Ministry last Saturday.
“They are the first overseas group to visit Penang Hill on the new train,” she said.
One of the tourists, Liu Yi Ling, said: “The ride was comfortable and the view fantastic.”
She said she also had a great time atop the hill.
The Taiwanese agents had tea at the David Brown Restaurant and Tea Terraces while enjoying a breathtaking view of George Town from the top of the hill.
Ann Su Si Ying, who is visiting Penang for the first time, said she fell in love with the island’s scenery and the multicultural way of life.
“The food is simply delicious. I had nasi lemak and roti planta,” she said.
Jointly organised by the Penang Municipal Council and state government, the four-day trip which ended on Thursday was aimed at promoting Penang to Taiwanese tourists.
Travel adviser Chin Poh-Chin said there should be more efforts to promote Penang which had numerous attractions.
The 12-member group comprising nine travel agents and three magazine editors visited various places of interests in Penang.
Their tour included trishaw rides to heritage sites in George Town as well as visits to Penang Botanical Garden, Tropical Spice Garden, Kek Lok Si Temple and Snake Temple.
-News courtesy of The Star-
A GROUP of Taiwanese travel agents and media personnel, including The Star reporter Christopher Tan, were among the privileged few to have gone up Penang Hill on the new funicular train which has yet to open to the public. Here is Tan’s account of his experience.The 20-minute ride from the base station to the hilltop was very soothing and relaxing. I rode on the old train at the age of nine and this new service provided a much more pleasant journey. The cabin is more spacious and the windows of the train gave me a good view of the surroundings from where I was seated. The air-conditioning was perfectly controlled.
The seat and back rest are wooden but not uncomfortable for the short ride up the hill, and the fittings felt firm and of good quality.
Tall people may however find it difficult getting into the train as they may have to bend to avoid hitting the overhead lighting and air-conditioning compartment.
The train made several stops along the way up to drop off passengers who are staying on the hill. For these hill residents, the new train will definitely improve their lives and one resident, upon alighting, turned around and gave me the thumbs-up.
During these stops, the Taiwanese visitors were given a wonderful opportunity to take some shots of the beautiful scenery.
I love the ride and I will be telling my friends and other people about it. I know I will be back for more.
Penang Hill Corporation senior assistant manager Sharidah Talib said the Taiwanese group was amongst the first few visitors to experience the new train service following the handover ceremony by the Tourism Ministry last Saturday.
“They are the first overseas group to visit Penang Hill on the new train,” she said.
One of the tourists, Liu Yi Ling, said: “The ride was comfortable and the view fantastic.”
She said she also had a great time atop the hill.
The Taiwanese agents had tea at the David Brown Restaurant and Tea Terraces while enjoying a breathtaking view of George Town from the top of the hill.
Ann Su Si Ying, who is visiting Penang for the first time, said she fell in love with the island’s scenery and the multicultural way of life.
“The food is simply delicious. I had nasi lemak and roti planta,” she said.
Jointly organised by the Penang Municipal Council and state government, the four-day trip which ended on Thursday was aimed at promoting Penang to Taiwanese tourists.
Travel adviser Chin Poh-Chin said there should be more efforts to promote Penang which had numerous attractions.
The 12-member group comprising nine travel agents and three magazine editors visited various places of interests in Penang.
Their tour included trishaw rides to heritage sites in George Town as well as visits to Penang Botanical Garden, Tropical Spice Garden, Kek Lok Si Temple and Snake Temple.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Railing for a new lease of life
Railing for a new lease of life
WHEN Prof Dr Jimmy Lim was appointed by the Penang Municipal Council to undertake the Penang Hill Visitor Centre project, he decided to salvage part of the 87-year-old funicular train railway tracks for the centre.
A conservationist at heart, he felt that the philosophy for reusing the old tracks was mainly to preserve their rich heritage value.
“You’ve got something which has no more use and now you found a new function (for it), so why not?” he asked.
The old tracks were dismantled following the closure of the country’s oldest hill station in February last year to facilitate the Tourism Ministry’s RM73.8mil upgrading works.
Last Saturday, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen handed over the project to the Penang Hill Corporation following the completion of the project.
Dr Lim said the old railway tracks had been sent to Universiti Sains Malaysia for tests and were found to be still strong.
“The tracks are structural elements for the building and not just for decoration,” he said, adding that they would form part of the columns which were significant features.
He said three tracks would be creatively joined together to form the columns from the ground floor and the tracks would be seen protruding 1m above the first floor.
He explained the main concept for the project was “architecture without wall”.
“The structures are open and visitors can go in and enjoy the panora-mic view of George Town and the breeze.
“It is distinctive and the ‘orang peel’ look is designed to adapt to the environment,” he said, adding that the main structure would be steel, timber and rafter while the roof would be attap.
In terms of building costs, Dr Lim, who is also one of the founder members of Badan Warisan Malaysia, said reusing of the old railway tracks would help to save “a little bit”.
“What we have can be used for a floor only. If we’ve got more, then we can save more,” he said.
Dr Lim also proposed to build an open air theatre with George Town as the background under the proposed redevelopment project.
“The theatre can be for con- certs or even watching football matches,” he said.
The state government has announced that the entire area around the hilltop station would undergo a major facelift as part of its efforts to liven up the place. The plan includes a new recreational walkway, a pavilion, terrace dining areas, restoration of old government quarters atop the hill and a business centre.
-News courtesy of The Star-
WHEN Prof Dr Jimmy Lim was appointed by the Penang Municipal Council to undertake the Penang Hill Visitor Centre project, he decided to salvage part of the 87-year-old funicular train railway tracks for the centre.A conservationist at heart, he felt that the philosophy for reusing the old tracks was mainly to preserve their rich heritage value.
“You’ve got something which has no more use and now you found a new function (for it), so why not?” he asked.
The old tracks were dismantled following the closure of the country’s oldest hill station in February last year to facilitate the Tourism Ministry’s RM73.8mil upgrading works.
Last Saturday, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen handed over the project to the Penang Hill Corporation following the completion of the project.
Dr Lim said the old railway tracks had been sent to Universiti Sains Malaysia for tests and were found to be still strong.
“The tracks are structural elements for the building and not just for decoration,” he said, adding that they would form part of the columns which were significant features.
He said three tracks would be creatively joined together to form the columns from the ground floor and the tracks would be seen protruding 1m above the first floor.
He explained the main concept for the project was “architecture without wall”.
“The structures are open and visitors can go in and enjoy the panora-mic view of George Town and the breeze.
“It is distinctive and the ‘orang peel’ look is designed to adapt to the environment,” he said, adding that the main structure would be steel, timber and rafter while the roof would be attap.
In terms of building costs, Dr Lim, who is also one of the founder members of Badan Warisan Malaysia, said reusing of the old railway tracks would help to save “a little bit”.
“What we have can be used for a floor only. If we’ve got more, then we can save more,” he said.
Dr Lim also proposed to build an open air theatre with George Town as the background under the proposed redevelopment project.
“The theatre can be for con- certs or even watching football matches,” he said.
The state government has announced that the entire area around the hilltop station would undergo a major facelift as part of its efforts to liven up the place. The plan includes a new recreational walkway, a pavilion, terrace dining areas, restoration of old government quarters atop the hill and a business centre.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Thursday, 24 March 2011
Travel agent excited to discover Penang
Travel agent excited to discover Penang
FOR Taiwanese travel agent Yan Yu-Ping, she simply cannot wait to discover Penang.
“I was told that Penang has a vibrant culture and I just want to see it for myself,” she said, adding that this was her first visit to Malaysia as well.
The 24-year-old is part of a group of 13 Taiwanese travel agents and media members who arrived at the Penang International Airport on Monday for a four-day trip to discover Penang’s tourism attractions.
Upon landing, they were taken to the Hai Nan Town Restaurant at Tanjung City Marina in Weld Quay where they were served Nyonya and Hainanese delicacies such as assam prawn, curry fish head, claypot mutton and deep fried spring rolls,
State Youth, Sports, Women, Family and Community Development Committee chairman Lydia Ong said while many Malaysians visited Taiwan, the number of Taiwanese tourists coming to Malaysia was still low.
“Hopefully, when they return to Taiwan, their experience here will help the travel agents and the media members, whom are from travel magazines, to promote Penang.
“Every year we go to Taiwan for holiday, but very few of the Taiwanese come here, so we need to sell Penang,” she said in her speech.
The group’s itinerary includes a trishaw ride along George Town Heritage City to the Streets of Harmony where they will get to experience the fusion of Chinese, Malay and Indian culture.
They will also be taken to visit other famous tourist spots including Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple, Botanic Gardens, Tropical Spice Garden and Penang Butterfly Farm.
A lunch at Penang’s famous local hawker food at New World Park awaits them tomorrow before they depart for Taipei later the same day.
-News courtesy of The Star-
FOR Taiwanese travel agent Yan Yu-Ping, she simply cannot wait to discover Penang.
“I was told that Penang has a vibrant culture and I just want to see it for myself,” she said, adding that this was her first visit to Malaysia as well.
The 24-year-old is part of a group of 13 Taiwanese travel agents and media members who arrived at the Penang International Airport on Monday for a four-day trip to discover Penang’s tourism attractions.
Upon landing, they were taken to the Hai Nan Town Restaurant at Tanjung City Marina in Weld Quay where they were served Nyonya and Hainanese delicacies such as assam prawn, curry fish head, claypot mutton and deep fried spring rolls,
State Youth, Sports, Women, Family and Community Development Committee chairman Lydia Ong said while many Malaysians visited Taiwan, the number of Taiwanese tourists coming to Malaysia was still low.
“Hopefully, when they return to Taiwan, their experience here will help the travel agents and the media members, whom are from travel magazines, to promote Penang.
“Every year we go to Taiwan for holiday, but very few of the Taiwanese come here, so we need to sell Penang,” she said in her speech.
The group’s itinerary includes a trishaw ride along George Town Heritage City to the Streets of Harmony where they will get to experience the fusion of Chinese, Malay and Indian culture.
They will also be taken to visit other famous tourist spots including Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple, Botanic Gardens, Tropical Spice Garden and Penang Butterfly Farm.
A lunch at Penang’s famous local hawker food at New World Park awaits them tomorrow before they depart for Taipei later the same day.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Skateboarders to show off at Galaxie contest
Skateboarders to show off at Galaxie contest
CALLING skateboarders seeking a platform to pit their skills against some of the best.
Registration for the X-Games (Go-Skate) competition is open to avid skateboarders to gauge their standard among peers at the upcoming Galaxie & Youth Carnival 2011 next month.
Skateboarding will make its debut at the festival, which will be held at Penang Times Square on April 9 and April 10.
Extreme Sports Association Malaysia (ESAM) committee member Ahmad Fuaad Mokhtar urged skateboarders to grab the opportunity and take part in the competition as such contests were hard to come by.
He said budding skateboarders who craved for action should not miss the event.
“They can have a chance to rub shoulders with some of the best,” he said, adding that 36 participants had confirmed their participation so far.
“Besides Penang, we also have contestants coming from neighbouring states such as Kedah, Perlis, Perak, Perlis, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.”
Ahmad Fuaad said ESAM would provide judges and technical experts for the competition on April 9 while more than 150 skateboarders were scheduled to give a demonstration the following day.
The top three winners will take home RM1,500, RM600 and RM400 respectively.
Ahmad Fuaad, who will be one of the judges, has offered some pointers for those who wish to excel in the sport.
“Check out video clips and see what’s the latest tricks available online.
“Master the tricks through long hours of practice. There is no short cut,” he added.
Other exciting activities at the carnival are Talent Search, The George Town Amazing Race, Street Dance Competition, Shoe Painting, Paintball Target Shooting and Cosplay.
Entry forms are available at The Star offices in Bayan Lepas, Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling and Bandar Sunway, Seberang Jaya.
For details, call Timothy Lim (012-4100418), Ema (012-4107303), Soon (016-4105521) or Voon (012-5851612).
-News courtesy of The Star-
CALLING skateboarders seeking a platform to pit their skills against some of the best.
Registration for the X-Games (Go-Skate) competition is open to avid skateboarders to gauge their standard among peers at the upcoming Galaxie & Youth Carnival 2011 next month.
Skateboarding will make its debut at the festival, which will be held at Penang Times Square on April 9 and April 10.
Extreme Sports Association Malaysia (ESAM) committee member Ahmad Fuaad Mokhtar urged skateboarders to grab the opportunity and take part in the competition as such contests were hard to come by.
He said budding skateboarders who craved for action should not miss the event.
“They can have a chance to rub shoulders with some of the best,” he said, adding that 36 participants had confirmed their participation so far.
“Besides Penang, we also have contestants coming from neighbouring states such as Kedah, Perlis, Perak, Perlis, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.”
Ahmad Fuaad said ESAM would provide judges and technical experts for the competition on April 9 while more than 150 skateboarders were scheduled to give a demonstration the following day.
The top three winners will take home RM1,500, RM600 and RM400 respectively.
Ahmad Fuaad, who will be one of the judges, has offered some pointers for those who wish to excel in the sport.
“Check out video clips and see what’s the latest tricks available online.
“Master the tricks through long hours of practice. There is no short cut,” he added.
Other exciting activities at the carnival are Talent Search, The George Town Amazing Race, Street Dance Competition, Shoe Painting, Paintball Target Shooting and Cosplay.
Entry forms are available at The Star offices in Bayan Lepas, Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling and Bandar Sunway, Seberang Jaya.
For details, call Timothy Lim (012-4100418), Ema (012-4107303), Soon (016-4105521) or Voon (012-5851612).
-News courtesy of The Star-
George Town anew
George Town anew
THE Penang government will adopt the Business Improvement District Scheme (BIDs) to rejuvenate the inner city.
State Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the scheme was popular in many countries but would be the first for the state.
“BIDs will turn Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (Komtar) and its surrounding area into a premier shopping destination and a bustling cultural, business and social centre.
“We are looking into enhancing connectivity between the commercial enterprises there by eventually linking Komtar to shops along Macalister Road, Campbell Street and Kimberly Street with underpasses and walkways.
“The first phase will be to connect Komtar to Gama and Berjaya Times Square,” he said, adding that BIDs was about creating a safer, more comfortable environment while improving commercial activities to make the place more vibrant.
Chow said a BIDs committee chaired by Penang Development Corporation (PDC) general manager Datuk Rosli Jaafar was set up last September and the project is spearheaded by Think City Sdn Bhd and Khazanah Nasional Bhd.
He said everything was still in the conceptual stage.
Chow was speaking to reporters after opening two link bridges connecting 1st Avenue to Prangin Mall and Komtar yesterday.
On Komtar’s final phase, Rosli said the immediate plan was to clear the area of dilapidated buildings before work could start.
“We have received proposals for boutique hotels and arts and craft trades.
“We want commercial development that’s compatible with the heritage value of the place,” he said, adding that there would also be an urban park for the public.
Comprising five phases, the Komtar project undertaken by the PDC, was launched in 1974.
-News courtesy of The Star-
THE Penang government will adopt the Business Improvement District Scheme (BIDs) to rejuvenate the inner city.
State Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the scheme was popular in many countries but would be the first for the state.
“BIDs will turn Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (Komtar) and its surrounding area into a premier shopping destination and a bustling cultural, business and social centre.
“We are looking into enhancing connectivity between the commercial enterprises there by eventually linking Komtar to shops along Macalister Road, Campbell Street and Kimberly Street with underpasses and walkways.
“The first phase will be to connect Komtar to Gama and Berjaya Times Square,” he said, adding that BIDs was about creating a safer, more comfortable environment while improving commercial activities to make the place more vibrant.
Chow said a BIDs committee chaired by Penang Development Corporation (PDC) general manager Datuk Rosli Jaafar was set up last September and the project is spearheaded by Think City Sdn Bhd and Khazanah Nasional Bhd.
He said everything was still in the conceptual stage.
Chow was speaking to reporters after opening two link bridges connecting 1st Avenue to Prangin Mall and Komtar yesterday.
On Komtar’s final phase, Rosli said the immediate plan was to clear the area of dilapidated buildings before work could start.
“We have received proposals for boutique hotels and arts and craft trades.
“We want commercial development that’s compatible with the heritage value of the place,” he said, adding that there would also be an urban park for the public.
Comprising five phases, the Komtar project undertaken by the PDC, was launched in 1974.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Wooing Taiwan tourists
Wooing Taiwan tourists
THOUGH Taiwan is among the most popular travel destinations for Penangites, its holidaymakers have yet to put Penang on their radar when seeking a vacation destination. But all that is about to change.
A dozen travel industry and media personnel from Taiwan arrived in Penang on Monday for a four-day visit, and were given an exclusive tour of Penang’s unique attractions to allow them to better promote the island back home.
The event was organised by the Penang Municipal Council, which is a member of the Tourism Promotion Organisation for Asia-Pacific Cities, and supported by the state government.
Local travel advisor Chin Poh-Chin took the group to places like the Kuan Yin Temple, St George’s Church, Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Kapitan Keling Mosque along Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling — better known as the Street of Harmony — in the George Town Heritage City Tour on trishaws yesterday.
“They remarked that not many in Taiwan know of Penang’s attractions. Thus, we want to show them as much as possible, from culture and heritage to shopping malls, as we need to appeal to young travellers too.
“Kuala Lumpur is quite popular, so now it’s time to push Penang instead,” she said, adding that the move would benefit the local tourism industry.
Chin felt there would be no language bar-riers in Penang as the Taiwanese were conversant in Mandarin and Hokkien.
In addition, with the scheduled signing of a friendly-city memorandum of understanding between George Town and Taipei on March 28, this augurs well for travel and tourism.
Alvin Wen, a China Airlines representative from its Taipei office who was among the group, said he had learnt a lot from the visit and once back home, would discuss how to package and promote Penang’s offerings.
“It’s unique with a blend of so many cultures together. We’re quite confident there would be a market for it,” he said.
Travel agent Elaine Liu loved the experience and described Penang as “amazing”.
“Coming here, I can see a lot of things that you can’t find in Taiwan. The multi-cultural aspect is very unique,” she added.
The group is scheduled to visit various places of interest before leaving for home tomorrow.
-News courtesy of The Star-
THOUGH Taiwan is among the most popular travel destinations for Penangites, its holidaymakers have yet to put Penang on their radar when seeking a vacation destination. But all that is about to change.
A dozen travel industry and media personnel from Taiwan arrived in Penang on Monday for a four-day visit, and were given an exclusive tour of Penang’s unique attractions to allow them to better promote the island back home.
The event was organised by the Penang Municipal Council, which is a member of the Tourism Promotion Organisation for Asia-Pacific Cities, and supported by the state government.
Local travel advisor Chin Poh-Chin took the group to places like the Kuan Yin Temple, St George’s Church, Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Kapitan Keling Mosque along Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling — better known as the Street of Harmony — in the George Town Heritage City Tour on trishaws yesterday.
“They remarked that not many in Taiwan know of Penang’s attractions. Thus, we want to show them as much as possible, from culture and heritage to shopping malls, as we need to appeal to young travellers too.
“Kuala Lumpur is quite popular, so now it’s time to push Penang instead,” she said, adding that the move would benefit the local tourism industry.
Chin felt there would be no language bar-riers in Penang as the Taiwanese were conversant in Mandarin and Hokkien.
In addition, with the scheduled signing of a friendly-city memorandum of understanding between George Town and Taipei on March 28, this augurs well for travel and tourism.
Alvin Wen, a China Airlines representative from its Taipei office who was among the group, said he had learnt a lot from the visit and once back home, would discuss how to package and promote Penang’s offerings.
“It’s unique with a blend of so many cultures together. We’re quite confident there would be a market for it,” he said.
Travel agent Elaine Liu loved the experience and described Penang as “amazing”.
“Coming here, I can see a lot of things that you can’t find in Taiwan. The multi-cultural aspect is very unique,” she added.
The group is scheduled to visit various places of interest before leaving for home tomorrow.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Sunday, 20 March 2011
Call to relocate airport Build one on man-made island
Call to relocate airport Build one on man-made island in Penang, says developer
THE Federal Government should look into the possibility of relocating the Penang Interna-tional Airport in Bayan Lepas to a man-made island on the coast of Penang.
Penang Real Estate and Housing Developers Association chairman Datuk Jerry Chan said the on-going RM250mil expansion of the airport, when completed next year, would not be able to cater for growth for a very long period.
“When the expanded airport can no longer cater for more growth, another expansion work will be carried out.
“Instead of spending money for further expansion on a piecemeal basis, why not look for a longer term solution such as relocating the airport to a man-made island on the coast of Penang,” he said in an interview.
Chan said the airport would be able to accommodate a new cargo terminal and also a low-cost carrier terminal.
“It will also have runways that can accommodate the new generation of wide-bodied aircraft.
“A key problem of the airport now is that its runway is too close to factories and residential areas,” he said.
Chan said the present site of the airport, which encompasses 900 acres, could be used for industrial expansion.
“The current market value of the airport land is around RM2bil,” he said.
The Penang International Airport, however, must remain within Penang, Chan added.
“This is because Penang is the economic hub for the north. Major multinational corporations, me-dical, education, and tourism businesses are located here,” he said.
Penang Master Builders and Building Material Dealers Association immediate past president Finn Choong said the idea to relocate the airport within Penang should be explored.
“We should not reject the idea outright. As we are moving towards a more modern society, we should look at innovative technologies to build a new airport for the next generation.
“The present airport expansion tackles only ‘cosmetic’ problems of limited car park bays and constraints in passenger space,” he said.
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers northern branch chairman Datuk O.K. Lee however said the relocation of the airport was not a viable idea.
“What is being proposed is an Osaka type of airport, which is very costly to build.
“Who is going to pay for it?
“If this idea is accepted, then someone may even propose that the airport be relocated in Seberang Prai or even in Kedah,” he said.
-News courtesy of The Star-
THE Federal Government should look into the possibility of relocating the Penang Interna-tional Airport in Bayan Lepas to a man-made island on the coast of Penang.
Penang Real Estate and Housing Developers Association chairman Datuk Jerry Chan said the on-going RM250mil expansion of the airport, when completed next year, would not be able to cater for growth for a very long period.
“When the expanded airport can no longer cater for more growth, another expansion work will be carried out.
“Instead of spending money for further expansion on a piecemeal basis, why not look for a longer term solution such as relocating the airport to a man-made island on the coast of Penang,” he said in an interview.
Chan said the airport would be able to accommodate a new cargo terminal and also a low-cost carrier terminal.
“It will also have runways that can accommodate the new generation of wide-bodied aircraft.
“A key problem of the airport now is that its runway is too close to factories and residential areas,” he said.
Chan said the present site of the airport, which encompasses 900 acres, could be used for industrial expansion.
“The current market value of the airport land is around RM2bil,” he said.
The Penang International Airport, however, must remain within Penang, Chan added.
“This is because Penang is the economic hub for the north. Major multinational corporations, me-dical, education, and tourism businesses are located here,” he said.
Penang Master Builders and Building Material Dealers Association immediate past president Finn Choong said the idea to relocate the airport within Penang should be explored.
“We should not reject the idea outright. As we are moving towards a more modern society, we should look at innovative technologies to build a new airport for the next generation.
“The present airport expansion tackles only ‘cosmetic’ problems of limited car park bays and constraints in passenger space,” he said.
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers northern branch chairman Datuk O.K. Lee however said the relocation of the airport was not a viable idea.
“What is being proposed is an Osaka type of airport, which is very costly to build.
“Who is going to pay for it?
“If this idea is accepted, then someone may even propose that the airport be relocated in Seberang Prai or even in Kedah,” he said.
-News courtesy of The Star-
All set to soar uphill - Penang Hill
All set to soar uphill Handover of refurbished funicular train today
PENANG Hill residents will continue to enjoy subsidised rates on the newly refurbished Penang Hill funicular train that will be handed over to the Penang Hill Corporation today.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen will officiate at the handover ceremony, which is scheduled to be witnessed by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas.
The 87-year-old historic funicular train service was halted February last year to facilitate upgrading works by the ministry, which had reportedly spent a total of RM73.8mil on the project.
Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who is also the head of the corporation’s board of directors, said residents would be able to buy monthly passes at RM24 for unlimited rides once the service reopened.
“Ticket prices for non-residents will be revised and announced at a later date,” he said at a press conference in Komtar yesterday.
He added that the expected launching date when the train service would be open to the public would be announced after the official handover today.
Lim also announced that a four-man Technical Advisory Panel had been set up to ensure a smooth running of the new Penang Hill train.
The committee comprises engineers Ahmad Chik, Datuk Dr Lee Yow Ching, Lim Kok Khong and Soo Kin Hei @ Saw Kean Thai.
A visit to the Penang Hill ground station yesterday showed preparations in full swing for today’s handover ceremony.
The plush, new, blue-coloured air-conditioned coaches, capable of ferrying up to 100 passengers at one go, were also seen making their way up and down the hill ferrying residents at regular intervals.
-News courtesy of The Star-
PENANG Hill residents will continue to enjoy subsidised rates on the newly refurbished Penang Hill funicular train that will be handed over to the Penang Hill Corporation today.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen will officiate at the handover ceremony, which is scheduled to be witnessed by Penang Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas.
The 87-year-old historic funicular train service was halted February last year to facilitate upgrading works by the ministry, which had reportedly spent a total of RM73.8mil on the project.
Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who is also the head of the corporation’s board of directors, said residents would be able to buy monthly passes at RM24 for unlimited rides once the service reopened.
“Ticket prices for non-residents will be revised and announced at a later date,” he said at a press conference in Komtar yesterday.
He added that the expected launching date when the train service would be open to the public would be announced after the official handover today.
Lim also announced that a four-man Technical Advisory Panel had been set up to ensure a smooth running of the new Penang Hill train.
The committee comprises engineers Ahmad Chik, Datuk Dr Lee Yow Ching, Lim Kok Khong and Soo Kin Hei @ Saw Kean Thai.
A visit to the Penang Hill ground station yesterday showed preparations in full swing for today’s handover ceremony.
The plush, new, blue-coloured air-conditioned coaches, capable of ferrying up to 100 passengers at one go, were also seen making their way up and down the hill ferrying residents at regular intervals.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Friday, 18 March 2011
Thursday, 10 March 2011
Coach has arrived
Coach has arrived
LUXURY accessories brand, Coach, celebrated the opening of its first Penang outlet in 1st Avenue Mall with a gala showcase of its latest pieces in a separate After Party at Suffolk House in Air Itam.
The glittering runway show highlighted the preppy-punk and bright aesthetics of the Spring 2011 Poppy Collection, the brand’s witty take on a classic spring theme.
Characterised by nautical looks, the line of exquisite handbags, accessories, jewellery, shoes and wearables lightens and brightens one up for warmer weather.
The crowd of several hundred invited guests present at the showcase also got a glimpse of the Spring 2011 Women’s and Men’s Collections — each epitomising Coach’s unique, desirable and timeless American styles.
While the former is inspired by the 70-year-old brand’s New York heritage and imbued with the modern New Yorker spirit, the latter builds on its renowned premium leather craftsmanship, combining traditional hand-finishing with modern sensibilities for an aura of cool masculinity.
Earlier that day, Coach officially opened its new, 220sqm (2,374sq ft) store — the first in the state – at the ground floor of the shopping mall in George Town, carrying the full range of its products.
Speaking du-ring the ce-remony, regional general manager Deepak Sharma said the store epitomised the brand’s new “loft” look, which incorporated high-gloss lacquer fixtures accented with polished stainless steel and mirrors, on white marble flooring.
Accessibility is what sets the brand apart, he said, for at Coach stores, customers were encouraged to come in, pick up their products, try it on and get a feel of it.
“Coach is also the only luxury brand that showcases new products every month. On the first day of each month, you’ll find that almost a third of our products are from a brand new collection.
“Our customers have always enjoyed visiting our stores, for there’s always something new for them,” he added.
According to Ashvin J. Valiram, executive director of the Valiram Group, which manages the Coach brand here, sales had far exceeded expectations since the store started business on Feb 9, and they were quite bullish about the future.
“We’re extremely proud and excited to bring Coach to Penang. We’ve seen Penangites shopping in our stores in Kuala Lumpur and it’s nice to be able to finally come to you instead,” said Valiram, who was joined by Belleview Group director Datuk Sonny Ho in the ribbon-cutting ceremony last Thursday.
The latest Coach outlet is the eighth in Malaysia, and definitely not the last. Another is set to open in the third quarter of this year at another shopping mall.
-News courtesy of The Star-
LUXURY accessories brand, Coach, celebrated the opening of its first Penang outlet in 1st Avenue Mall with a gala showcase of its latest pieces in a separate After Party at Suffolk House in Air Itam.
The glittering runway show highlighted the preppy-punk and bright aesthetics of the Spring 2011 Poppy Collection, the brand’s witty take on a classic spring theme.
Characterised by nautical looks, the line of exquisite handbags, accessories, jewellery, shoes and wearables lightens and brightens one up for warmer weather.
The crowd of several hundred invited guests present at the showcase also got a glimpse of the Spring 2011 Women’s and Men’s Collections — each epitomising Coach’s unique, desirable and timeless American styles.
While the former is inspired by the 70-year-old brand’s New York heritage and imbued with the modern New Yorker spirit, the latter builds on its renowned premium leather craftsmanship, combining traditional hand-finishing with modern sensibilities for an aura of cool masculinity.
Earlier that day, Coach officially opened its new, 220sqm (2,374sq ft) store — the first in the state – at the ground floor of the shopping mall in George Town, carrying the full range of its products.
Speaking du-ring the ce-remony, regional general manager Deepak Sharma said the store epitomised the brand’s new “loft” look, which incorporated high-gloss lacquer fixtures accented with polished stainless steel and mirrors, on white marble flooring.
Accessibility is what sets the brand apart, he said, for at Coach stores, customers were encouraged to come in, pick up their products, try it on and get a feel of it.
“Coach is also the only luxury brand that showcases new products every month. On the first day of each month, you’ll find that almost a third of our products are from a brand new collection.
“Our customers have always enjoyed visiting our stores, for there’s always something new for them,” he added.
According to Ashvin J. Valiram, executive director of the Valiram Group, which manages the Coach brand here, sales had far exceeded expectations since the store started business on Feb 9, and they were quite bullish about the future.
“We’re extremely proud and excited to bring Coach to Penang. We’ve seen Penangites shopping in our stores in Kuala Lumpur and it’s nice to be able to finally come to you instead,” said Valiram, who was joined by Belleview Group director Datuk Sonny Ho in the ribbon-cutting ceremony last Thursday.
The latest Coach outlet is the eighth in Malaysia, and definitely not the last. Another is set to open in the third quarter of this year at another shopping mall.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Seaside party
Seaside party
Alliance Francaise de Penang will hold a ‘Maserati by the sea’ charity party on March 19 at Penang Swimming Club. One of Malaysia’s top comedians, Andrew Netto, will be the master of ceremony. All proceeds will go to the Partners against Poverty state charity fund. For details, 04-2276008.
-Info courtesy of The Star-
Alliance Francaise de Penang will hold a ‘Maserati by the sea’ charity party on March 19 at Penang Swimming Club. One of Malaysia’s top comedians, Andrew Netto, will be the master of ceremony. All proceeds will go to the Partners against Poverty state charity fund. For details, 04-2276008.
-Info courtesy of The Star-
Monday, 7 March 2011
Airport road to be demolished
Airport road to be demolished
THERE will only be one level for the public to drop off and pick up passengers at the Penang International Airport in future.
The present road leading to the departure level of the airport will be demolished soon as part of the ongoing upgrading works at the airport.
Malaysia Airports Berhad (MAB) senior manager Arif Jaafar said the road would be demolished by the end of this month.
He said MAB decided to merge down the drop-off point to the same level where passengers are currently being picked up to better monitor traffic flow.
He said there was currently congestion at the drop-off level for departures as many arriving passengers chose to be picked up at this level as well.
“Despite signs informing them that the level is strictly for dropping off departing passengers, arriving passengers will still head towards this level as it is more convenient for them,” Arif said.
He said there would be three vehicle lanes each for departing and arriving passengers at one level in future.
He said the upgrading at the airport was scheduled for completion by June next year and that MAB was doing all it could to minimise inconvenience during this period.
Arif advised passengers departing from Penang to come to the airport early as well as to check in early to avoid missing their flights.
He said MAB had received many complaints of passengers missing their flights during the recent Chinese New Year period due to traffic congestion on the way to the airport.
-News courtesy of The Star-
THERE will only be one level for the public to drop off and pick up passengers at the Penang International Airport in future.
The present road leading to the departure level of the airport will be demolished soon as part of the ongoing upgrading works at the airport.
Malaysia Airports Berhad (MAB) senior manager Arif Jaafar said the road would be demolished by the end of this month.
He said MAB decided to merge down the drop-off point to the same level where passengers are currently being picked up to better monitor traffic flow.
He said there was currently congestion at the drop-off level for departures as many arriving passengers chose to be picked up at this level as well.
“Despite signs informing them that the level is strictly for dropping off departing passengers, arriving passengers will still head towards this level as it is more convenient for them,” Arif said.
He said there would be three vehicle lanes each for departing and arriving passengers at one level in future.
He said the upgrading at the airport was scheduled for completion by June next year and that MAB was doing all it could to minimise inconvenience during this period.
Arif advised passengers departing from Penang to come to the airport early as well as to check in early to avoid missing their flights.
He said MAB had received many complaints of passengers missing their flights during the recent Chinese New Year period due to traffic congestion on the way to the airport.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Sunday, 6 March 2011
The proof of Penang rojak is in the eating
The proof of the Penang rojak is in the eating
For those who love Penang rojak, mere mention of the dish is enough to make one lick the lips in anticipation. So where in Penang does one go for their fix?
TO the residents of Gat Lebuh Macallum in George Town, the sight of Khor Ewe Hock manning his fruit rojak stall barefoot on the hot tar roadside is nothing unusual.
Penang’s “Rojak King” – a title Khor claims was bestowed on him by his many loyal customers – has been hawking there barefoot since the late 1980s. The energetic and eccentric 66-year-old believes that the heat from the ground is the secret to his clean bill of health.
Before starting the rojak business, Khor was in the construction line.
“In 1986, jobs were hard to come by. Since I love rojak, I decided to start my own stall selling it,” he shares.
Starting from scratch, he fine-tuned his recipe and kept at it until he was happy with the result.
“My first plate of rojak didn’t fare well,” he recalls. “A good friend said it wasn’t appetising but I didn’t give up. To succeed, you have to take criticisms positively so I kept trying to improve. It took me almost two decades to perfect the sauce.”
Not surprisingly, the recipe for the thick, gooey sauce is a fiercely guarded secret, and Khor will only concede that “everything is homemade”.
He claims to have been offered RM10,000 for the recipe, but turned it down.
“Even the ang mor (Caucasians) and Japanese love my rojak, and most of them can’t stand hae kor (Hokkien for prawn paste, the main ingredient),” he beams proudly.
Khor’s rojak is distinctively different from what many are used to. His sauce has a rich chocolate hue unlike the darker, brownish-black mixes that are more common. It is also a lot stickier, but his regulars love it.
He prefers to use coarse peanuts to give the rojak “more bite”. “If the peanuts are ground, they won’t be as aromatic,” he explains.
He also does not use belacan (dried shrimp paste) powder, substituting it with finely ground ju hoo (dried cuttlefish) instead.
Delicious rojak is all about the sauce and quality ingredients, he insists.
“If you are not stingy with your ingredients, your rojak will be good. That’s what I tell my daughter Ching Cheng who will be taking over the business at the end of the month.”
Khor, who is an avid traveller, assures regular customers that Ching Cheng is a worthy successor.
“I have given her the exact recipe and will be helping out from time to time. But I am looking forward to travelling more and indulging in my hobbies. I enjoy giving feng shui consultations and making little decorative dough dolls,” he admits with a chuckle.
When he first started the business, Khor’s rojak cost 70 sen per serving. But that was over 20 years ago and prices of most things have gone up since then. So, these days, he charges from RM6 to RM12 yet the line of customers has not become any shorter. The prices are slightly higher compared to his competitors’ as Khor offers extras like hae bee (dried shrimp).
Cheah Yew Weng, who goes for his rojak fix at Khor’s stall at least three times a week, isn’t complaining, though. “I’ve sampled the rojak at other stalls and I just don’t like the watery mix. Khor’s presentation is also much classier. Just looking at the dish makes you hungry,” he says.
Khor doesn’t even bat an eyelid when someone orders 35 packets, saying that he’s had orders for 50 packets by outstation visitors.
Khor’s is just one of the many famous rojak stalls dotting the island and mainland but it is arguably among the most sought after. “I’ve had at least three people open rojak stalls near mine but they have all closed down,” he says matter-of-factly.
Another acclaimed stall on the island is Majestic Rojak at Swatow Lane. Operated by Helen Cheah, Majestic Rojak is a popular pit stop for both locals and tourists.
Her husband Loh Moon Kan, who used to run the stall, passed away recently and she has taken over the reins. “But I’m not sure for how much longer. My son has no intention of taking over and I’m already 57,” she confides.
The couple inherited the business from Loh’s mother who ran the original stall outside the old Majestic Theatre near Penang Road for 40 years.
Cheah, who has been in the business for 26 years, confesses to not being particularly fond of rojak. She wakes up at 6am daily to prepare the vegetables, fruits and sauce. “It takes a lot of strength to stir the thick sauce,” she says.
Those who love her rojak, priced at RM4 or RM5 per plate, will feel the loss if she decides to close the business.
Bernadette Yap, who discovered Majestic Rojak while surfing online, says: “Majestic had so many rave reviews and after trying it, I have to agree.”
“Rojak is my favourite,” she adds, describing Khor’s version as “very unique. The sauce looks like melted chocolate.”
“Every stall has its own following but for me, the fruits and vegetables must be fresh and crunchy. That’s the most important. And stalls that are stingy with the peanuts are a no-go,” she says.
On the mainland, Bukit Mertajam town is a hotbed for delicious rojak.
Teh Lee Pheng, 29, operates the Rojak Orang Putih Hitam in Jalan Pasar, which opened for business four years ago and is now thriving despite the stiff competition there.
In fact, the stall’s unique name is a reflection of that competition. “It was a customer who suggested the name,” says Teh.
“Opposite my stall is Rojak Orang Putih (also known as BM Rojak) and across the road is Rojak Orang Hock (also known as Rojak Orang Hitam).”
She says there is no animosity among the rojak sellers there and that they all get along.
“Sometimes customers come here asking for directions to the other stalls and I tell them where to go. Which rojak is tastier depends on the individual’s preference,” she says, adding that Rojak Orang Putih Hitam’s sauce is sold nationwide.
“We even supply our special mix to Sabah and Sarawak. We source for the best hae kor, chili, tee chiau (sweet sauce), rock sugar and belacan, and heat up the mix for three hours on a gas stove. Charcoal is not suitable because it causes the mix to burn and stick to the bottom of the pot.”
Teh assures that her sauce doesn’t contain preservatives and can last up to two months. To prevent her rojak from turning watery, she generously sprinkles on the peanuts.
“For take-away orders, I always line the packet with ground peanuts because these soak up the water from the pineapple, cuttlefish, cucumber, jambu air (water apples), mango and yam bean.
“Otherwise, the taste of the sauce will be compromised,” she says, adding that original rojak ingredients did not include deep fried items like ewe char koay, prawn fritters and tau kua.
“Since youngsters like these items, you’ll find that most rojak stalls have added them.”
Rojak Orang Hock proprietor Teng Ah Hock is an old hand at this trade. Now 63, he started selling rojak in the town when he was only 22.
“Back then I only had a push cart and my stall was known as Penang Rojak. I was selling it for 30 sen because ingredients were cheap in those days. My stall became known as or lang (Orang Hitam) rojak because I am very tanned,” he laughs.
Teng may have started the colour-coding trend for rojak on the mainland but his prices remain reasonable at RM3 to RM5 per plate.
“Everywhere you go, the ingredients are almost the same. It’s the kanghu (skill) of preparing the sauce that makes the difference,” he says.
“The chilli paste must be properly heated in hot oil before going into the sauce for that extra kick.”
Cherrie Koh, who loves rojak with a passion and has already tried the dish at most of the “must-go” spots, says Teng’s sauce tastes sweeter that Khor’s, which has a more hae kor flavour.
“Teng’s rojak is very nice. Squeezing some lime juice on top gives it an irresistible zing,” she says.
W. H. Chen remembers the days when he used to walk 15 minutes in the scorching afternoon heat to get Orang Hock’s rojak.
“I would go after school every other day,” says the rojak lover. “Now that I’ve moved to the island, I go to Khor’s stall.”
-News courtesy of The Star-
For those who love Penang rojak, mere mention of the dish is enough to make one lick the lips in anticipation. So where in Penang does one go for their fix?
TO the residents of Gat Lebuh Macallum in George Town, the sight of Khor Ewe Hock manning his fruit rojak stall barefoot on the hot tar roadside is nothing unusual.
Penang’s “Rojak King” – a title Khor claims was bestowed on him by his many loyal customers – has been hawking there barefoot since the late 1980s. The energetic and eccentric 66-year-old believes that the heat from the ground is the secret to his clean bill of health.
Before starting the rojak business, Khor was in the construction line.
“In 1986, jobs were hard to come by. Since I love rojak, I decided to start my own stall selling it,” he shares.
Starting from scratch, he fine-tuned his recipe and kept at it until he was happy with the result.
“My first plate of rojak didn’t fare well,” he recalls. “A good friend said it wasn’t appetising but I didn’t give up. To succeed, you have to take criticisms positively so I kept trying to improve. It took me almost two decades to perfect the sauce.”
Not surprisingly, the recipe for the thick, gooey sauce is a fiercely guarded secret, and Khor will only concede that “everything is homemade”.
He claims to have been offered RM10,000 for the recipe, but turned it down.
“Even the ang mor (Caucasians) and Japanese love my rojak, and most of them can’t stand hae kor (Hokkien for prawn paste, the main ingredient),” he beams proudly.
Khor’s rojak is distinctively different from what many are used to. His sauce has a rich chocolate hue unlike the darker, brownish-black mixes that are more common. It is also a lot stickier, but his regulars love it.
He prefers to use coarse peanuts to give the rojak “more bite”. “If the peanuts are ground, they won’t be as aromatic,” he explains.
He also does not use belacan (dried shrimp paste) powder, substituting it with finely ground ju hoo (dried cuttlefish) instead.
Delicious rojak is all about the sauce and quality ingredients, he insists.
“If you are not stingy with your ingredients, your rojak will be good. That’s what I tell my daughter Ching Cheng who will be taking over the business at the end of the month.”
Khor, who is an avid traveller, assures regular customers that Ching Cheng is a worthy successor.
“I have given her the exact recipe and will be helping out from time to time. But I am looking forward to travelling more and indulging in my hobbies. I enjoy giving feng shui consultations and making little decorative dough dolls,” he admits with a chuckle.
When he first started the business, Khor’s rojak cost 70 sen per serving. But that was over 20 years ago and prices of most things have gone up since then. So, these days, he charges from RM6 to RM12 yet the line of customers has not become any shorter. The prices are slightly higher compared to his competitors’ as Khor offers extras like hae bee (dried shrimp).
Cheah Yew Weng, who goes for his rojak fix at Khor’s stall at least three times a week, isn’t complaining, though. “I’ve sampled the rojak at other stalls and I just don’t like the watery mix. Khor’s presentation is also much classier. Just looking at the dish makes you hungry,” he says.
Khor doesn’t even bat an eyelid when someone orders 35 packets, saying that he’s had orders for 50 packets by outstation visitors.
Khor’s is just one of the many famous rojak stalls dotting the island and mainland but it is arguably among the most sought after. “I’ve had at least three people open rojak stalls near mine but they have all closed down,” he says matter-of-factly.
Another acclaimed stall on the island is Majestic Rojak at Swatow Lane. Operated by Helen Cheah, Majestic Rojak is a popular pit stop for both locals and tourists.
Her husband Loh Moon Kan, who used to run the stall, passed away recently and she has taken over the reins. “But I’m not sure for how much longer. My son has no intention of taking over and I’m already 57,” she confides.
The couple inherited the business from Loh’s mother who ran the original stall outside the old Majestic Theatre near Penang Road for 40 years.
Cheah, who has been in the business for 26 years, confesses to not being particularly fond of rojak. She wakes up at 6am daily to prepare the vegetables, fruits and sauce. “It takes a lot of strength to stir the thick sauce,” she says.
Those who love her rojak, priced at RM4 or RM5 per plate, will feel the loss if she decides to close the business.
Bernadette Yap, who discovered Majestic Rojak while surfing online, says: “Majestic had so many rave reviews and after trying it, I have to agree.”
“Rojak is my favourite,” she adds, describing Khor’s version as “very unique. The sauce looks like melted chocolate.”
“Every stall has its own following but for me, the fruits and vegetables must be fresh and crunchy. That’s the most important. And stalls that are stingy with the peanuts are a no-go,” she says.
On the mainland, Bukit Mertajam town is a hotbed for delicious rojak.
Teh Lee Pheng, 29, operates the Rojak Orang Putih Hitam in Jalan Pasar, which opened for business four years ago and is now thriving despite the stiff competition there.
In fact, the stall’s unique name is a reflection of that competition. “It was a customer who suggested the name,” says Teh.
“Opposite my stall is Rojak Orang Putih (also known as BM Rojak) and across the road is Rojak Orang Hock (also known as Rojak Orang Hitam).”
She says there is no animosity among the rojak sellers there and that they all get along.
“Sometimes customers come here asking for directions to the other stalls and I tell them where to go. Which rojak is tastier depends on the individual’s preference,” she says, adding that Rojak Orang Putih Hitam’s sauce is sold nationwide.
“We even supply our special mix to Sabah and Sarawak. We source for the best hae kor, chili, tee chiau (sweet sauce), rock sugar and belacan, and heat up the mix for three hours on a gas stove. Charcoal is not suitable because it causes the mix to burn and stick to the bottom of the pot.”
Teh assures that her sauce doesn’t contain preservatives and can last up to two months. To prevent her rojak from turning watery, she generously sprinkles on the peanuts.
“For take-away orders, I always line the packet with ground peanuts because these soak up the water from the pineapple, cuttlefish, cucumber, jambu air (water apples), mango and yam bean.
“Otherwise, the taste of the sauce will be compromised,” she says, adding that original rojak ingredients did not include deep fried items like ewe char koay, prawn fritters and tau kua.
“Since youngsters like these items, you’ll find that most rojak stalls have added them.”
Rojak Orang Hock proprietor Teng Ah Hock is an old hand at this trade. Now 63, he started selling rojak in the town when he was only 22.
“Back then I only had a push cart and my stall was known as Penang Rojak. I was selling it for 30 sen because ingredients were cheap in those days. My stall became known as or lang (Orang Hitam) rojak because I am very tanned,” he laughs.
Teng may have started the colour-coding trend for rojak on the mainland but his prices remain reasonable at RM3 to RM5 per plate.
“Everywhere you go, the ingredients are almost the same. It’s the kanghu (skill) of preparing the sauce that makes the difference,” he says.
“The chilli paste must be properly heated in hot oil before going into the sauce for that extra kick.”
Cherrie Koh, who loves rojak with a passion and has already tried the dish at most of the “must-go” spots, says Teng’s sauce tastes sweeter that Khor’s, which has a more hae kor flavour.
“Teng’s rojak is very nice. Squeezing some lime juice on top gives it an irresistible zing,” she says.
W. H. Chen remembers the days when he used to walk 15 minutes in the scorching afternoon heat to get Orang Hock’s rojak.
“I would go after school every other day,” says the rojak lover. “Now that I’ve moved to the island, I go to Khor’s stall.”
-News courtesy of The Star-
Wednesday, 2 March 2011
Free entrance offer by toy museum owner
Free entrance offer by toy museum owner
PENANG Toy Museum owner Loh Lean Cheng said he is prepared to allow free entrance to a bigger outlet if the state government were to lease him a piece of land for it.
“This museum has more than 110,000 visitors and 150 buses (of tourists) per year,” he told reporters in response to Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng’s statement that the state had allocated land to construct a new building for SJK (T) Azad on Waterfall Road as education was more important.
Loh said building schools was good but not in a tourism area like the Botanical Gardens as the place was always crowded with cars and tourists which could affect the pupils’ concentration in their studies.
-News courtesy of The Star-
PENANG Toy Museum owner Loh Lean Cheng said he is prepared to allow free entrance to a bigger outlet if the state government were to lease him a piece of land for it.
“This museum has more than 110,000 visitors and 150 buses (of tourists) per year,” he told reporters in response to Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng’s statement that the state had allocated land to construct a new building for SJK (T) Azad on Waterfall Road as education was more important.
Loh said building schools was good but not in a tourism area like the Botanical Gardens as the place was always crowded with cars and tourists which could affect the pupils’ concentration in their studies.
-News courtesy of The Star-
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