Haven for hikers

 Haven for hikers

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A picturesque spot on the way up to Penang Hill.-BERNARD SEE/The Star

PENANGITES are a lucky lot when it comes to hiking as there are reportedly more than 30 trails that lead up to Penang Hill for them to choose from.

Most of these trails start from the Penang City Park and Penang Botanic Gardens and they are very popular with not only locals but also visitors from all over the world.

Healthy pursuit: Hikers passing by a spot with a panoramic view of Penang island while making their way up Penang Hill to the No 5 rest area. — BERNARD SEE/The Star

PM: CMCO extended till June 9

PM: CMCO extended till June 9

The conditional movement control order (MCO) will be extended for another four weeks until June 9 as public sentiments are also in favour of it, says Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

The Prime Minister said mass movements would not be allowed although major festivals – Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Kaamatan and Hari Gawai (the harvest festival in Sabah and Sarawak respectively) – fall within that period.

“On the advice of the Health Ministry, I am announcing that the conditional MCO, which will end on May 12, will be extended for another four weeks to June 9.

“This means all rules and standard operating procedures (SOP) during the conditional MCO will continue to be enforced until June 9. Any changes to the SOP or list of sectors which will be allowed to operate will be announced from time to time.“There is Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the Kaamatan Feast and Hari Gawai. I remind all of you that the ban on interstate movement stays.

“Many apologies and I beg your forgiveness, but for your safety and health, returning to your hometowns across state borders for Hari Raya purposes will not be allowed.

“When the situation improves, Malaysians can go back to their hometowns to visit their parents or relatives,” he said in a live broadcast on national television yesterday.However, he said visiting close neighbours and families in the same state would be allowed during the festivals, provided that there was a maximum of 20 people gathered at any one time.

He also stated that spouses living in separate states would be allowed to travel, as there were husbands and wives who could not meet during the conditional MCO due to work commitments.

“To those who need to cross states in Sabah and Sarawak, I urge the state governments to give them the flexibility. Applications can be made through the Gerak Malaysia app or by applying to the nearest police station,” he said.

He also said the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) was refining its SOP for congregational prayers in mosques, including Hari Raya Aidilfitri prayers.

The SOP, he added, must first be finalised and presented to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong before it could be made public.

He said the SOP for other houses of worship such as churches and temples was also being drawn up.

On another issue, Muhyiddin said the Finance Ministry was extending the appeal period for Bantuan Prihatin Nasional (BPN) to May 31 and the public could go to the Inland Revenue Board counters from today to appeal.

He said he could not promise that all appeals would be approved, but those who qualified would get what was due.

As of today, 10.6 million people have qualified as BPN recipients involving RM11bil.

The Prime Minister also said although almost all districts in the country had been designated as green zones, the people should not be lulled into a false sense of security.“From 1,178 districts, sections, zones, sub-zones and precincts in the country, 1,112 or 94.4% have been categorised as green zones, 62 or 5.2% as yellow zones and only four or 0.34% as red zones.

“You may think you will not be infected because you are in a green zone but this virus is an unseen, silent enemy. It can strike you any time and anywhere,” he said.

The red zone category is for areas with more than 40 Covid-19 positive cases; orange zone (20-40 cases); yellow zone (one to 19 cases); and green zone (no case).

“Only four areas are red zones: Batu in Gombak, Selangor; Batu in Kuala Lumpur; Kampung Baru in Kuala Lumpur; and Pedas in Rembau, Negri Sembilan.

“To those living outside these areas, do not visit these places for the time being to avoid getting infected,” he said.

Muhyiddin also commended the country for ranking fourth out of 105 countries in terms of people’s satisfaction with the government’s efforts in dealing with the Covid-19 outbreak.

This achievement, he said, was reported in a study done by a research agency based in Singapore.

This will be the fourth time the government has extended the MCO. The order has been implemented in phases from March 18 to 31, April 1 to 14, April 15 to 28 and April 29 to May 12.

On May 4, the government imposed the conditional MCO, which allowed almost all economic sectors to reopen.

~The Star~

Public transport and motorbikes can travel, too

Public transport and motorbikes can travel, too

Bukit Aman has decided to allow public transport and motorcycles to make journeys across state lines.

Federal CID director Comm Datuk Huzir Mohamed said the decision was made after assessing the current situation on the roads.

He said police observed and studied the movement on highways and federal roads yesterday and found traffic to be smooth.

Comm Huzir, however, said only public transportation and motorcyclists with approval from the authorities would be allowed to make the interstate trips.

~The Star~

MCO Phase 4 from April 29 to May 12

MCO Phase 4 from April 29 to May 12

The Movement Control Order (MCO), currently in its third phase, has been extended by another two weeks until May 12.

This was announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in a special televised broadcast today.

Muhyddin also did not rule out the possibility of another extension beyond May 12, subject to how the situation develops.

"During this period, the government will study the latest data from the Health Ministry to determine the next steps.

"I do not discount the possibility that the MCO may be extended beyond May 12, therefore you may not be able to celebrate Hari Raya in your kampung," he said.

Muhyiddin added that if cases continue to show a downward trend, the government may slightly relax MCO regulations in stages to include several sectors including the social sector.

He also said the government will also allow university students in hostels to return home.

The process to facilitate the movement of some 100,000 students, he added, will be done on the advice of the Health Ministry.

Before they are allowed to go home, all students must be healthy and do not display any Covid-19 symptoms.

"The government may consider a one-time journey for Malaysians who have gone back to their hometowns before the MCO was enforced, to return to their homes.

"As this would involve a big number of people, the government is gathering data and studying the best methods to allow this movement."

Muhyiddin said those who needed to do so would need to register online or make an appointment at the nearest police station.

The MCO was implemented by the government on March 18 as a measure to contain the Covid-19 outbreak.

On March 25, Muhyiddin announced that the first phase of the MCO, which ended on March 31, would immediately be succeeded by a second phase, lasting until April 14.

A third phase was then announced from April 15 to April 28.

~New Straits Times~

MAS: All passengers must wear face masks, starting Thursday (April 23)

MAS: All passengers must wear face masks, starting Thursday (April 23)

All Malaysia Airlines passengers are now required to bring and wear their own protective masks effective April 23, 2020, at touch-points such as check-in, boarding, in the aircraft cabin, disembarkation and collection of baggage on arrival to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.

This requirement applies to all passengers (excluding infant) travelling on all Malaysia Airlines’ domestic, international and charter flights, to ensure the comfort and wellbeing of each passenger and airline employee, it said in a statement here Wednesday (April 22).

Malaysia Airlines will not accept passengers that do not have/wear a face mask at the time of check-in and boarding, it stressed.

"For passengers’ own comfort, especially on long haul flights, you are advised to bring additional masks and hand sanitisers for your own use.”

Passengers are also reminded to respect the personal space of others and observe social distancing where required and to comply with other safety measures in our pre-departure and arrival processes to ensure you have a safe journey.

The safety of its passengers and staff is of utmost importance to Malaysia Airlines. - Bernama

Taxis and e-hailing vehicles to operate from 6am to 10pm

Taxis and e-hailing vehicles to operate from 6am to 10pm 

Taxi, e-hailing and delivery services will only be allowed to be on the road for specific hours daily from today during the extended movement control order (MCO), says the Transport Ministry.

“From April 1 onwards, during the MCO, taxis and e-hailing vehicles are allowed to operate from 6am to 10pm.

“Delivery services are allowed to operate between 8am and 8pm, ” the ministry said in a statement yesterday.

The ministry is encouraging logistics and transportation companies involved with delivering essential goods to do so between 7pm and 7am, the most unhindered movement during the extended MCO.

It said operational hours under the MCO for stage buses, express buses, trains and their terminals continue to be limited to 6am to 10am and 5pm to 10pm as announced previously.

The statement said the restriction, covering the two-week extended MCO period, was necessary in line with the government’s efforts to reduce the spread of Covid-19 infections and put the country on the path to full recovery.

“Several difficult decisions had to be made under the second phase of the MCO from April 1-14.

“For measures related to public transportation, they are aimed to further reduce person-to-person contact on buses, rail services, taxis and in e-hailing services, and break potential chains of infection on these modes of transportation, ” the statement added.

The ministry reminded passengers to adhere to regulations and social distancing practices, including reducing crowding while using public transportation during the extended MCO period.

~The Star~

Covid 19 Update

Penang-Langkawi ferry service suspended

Penang-Langkawi ferry service suspended

THE ferry service from Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal to Langkawi will be temporarily halted from today till March 31, said Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) chief executive officer Sasedharan Vasudevan.

Passenger ridership, he said, had dwindled from around 150 to only about 20 people per ferry since the movement control order (MCO) started on Wednesday.

“Operation of the two ferries will be temporarily stopped.

“The ferries run by private companies were taking about 220,000 people a year, but with the MCO, it is not profitable to operate during this period.

“People mainly visit Langkawi either for leisure or work, and presently, both are not possible since all are staying home or working from home, ” said Sasedharan.
v The scene at the port in George Town was quiet, where people usually gather near the ground transport area to board the ferries and cruise liners.

The gates leading to the main Penang Port Commission office were also locked, barring outsiders from entering the premises.

Meanwhile, the Penang International Airport was a picture of calm, with both the arrival and departure lounges being quite deserted.

Only a handful of passengers, all in masks, were waiting for domestic flights, while the electronic flight information board showed the ‘Cancelled’ sign for most of the flights.
v Major fast food outlets at the departure lounge were empty with only several people at the counters for takeaways.

~The Star~

Restricted movement for 14 days

Restricted movement for 14 days



Public measure: The movement control order will limit congregation at religious, sport, social and cultural events.

PETALING JAYA: A movement control order will be imposed from tomorrow until the end of the month to contain the Covid-19 outbreak, says Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

The Prime Minister announced the measure after chairing the National Security Council (NSC) last night.

“The government has decided to enact the measure, starting March 18 until March 31, throughout the whole country.

“This order is being issued under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 and the Police Act 1967, ” he said during a special broadcast.

The measure will restrict the movement and congregation at religious, sport, social and cultural events.

While public and business premises will be closed, Muhyiddin announced that supermarkets, sundry shops and other shops which sell daily essentials will remain open.

Overseas travel for Malaysians will be restricted while those returning to the country must undergo health checks and voluntary quarantine.

Educational centres and schools, including higher learning institutions, will also be closed during this period.

The Prime Minister assured the public that essential services will continue.

These include health services, utilities such as fuel and electricity, along with the Fire and Rescue Department, police and those involved in the food supply chain.

Muhyiddin said he will chair daily NSC meetings and periodic updates will be announced to the public.

He also urged for all Malaysians to be patient during these trying times and to comply with the restrictions.

He assured the public that enough food and essentials are available, including face masks.

But at the same time, he said the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry will monitor the supply of these items.

“I realise the public might feel these actions create difficulties and hardships during their day to day lives. However, such action must be taken by the government to contain the outbreak.

“We cannot wait any longer for the situation to turn more dire. Drastic measures have to be taken immediately, ” he said.

He urged the public not to panic and remain calm.

“I believe that with these measures, we will be able to contain the outbreak soon, ” he said.

Muhyiddin also thanked those directly involved in combating the Covid-19 outbreak, including health officers and public servants who have been working around the clock.

“I pray that you will remain strong in performing your duties for the country to ensure public safety, ” he said.

~The Star~

Value-for-money fun for Penangites

Value-for-money fun for Penangites



Take advantage of the promotion until May 22 to enjoy an exciting day at The Top Penang.

The Top Penang is now offering a 50% discount on its Top Day Fun Pass that includes entry to over 15 exciting attractions.

Valid till May 22, the promo lets adults pay only RM48 (instead of the normal rate of RM99). For children and seniors, the price is just RM30 (normal rate RM58).

You will be hard-pressed to find better value for money elsewhere. So wait no more and gather the entire family for an entertaining and informative day out.

The Top Penang is located in the Tun Abdul Razak Building (more popularly known as Komtar) in central George Town.

Created by Only World Group, The Top is billed as the state’s ‘Highest Iconic Edutainment Tower’ and ‘Largest Indoor Theme Park’ thanks to its myriad attractions all under one roof.

The promo is part of the state government’s Experience Penang 2020 programme and Penang Lang 50% Off Campaign aimed at boosting domestic tourism in light of global coronavirus fears.

The Top Penang is definitely worth a visit. Spread across levels 3,4 and 5 are attractions such as Penang State Gallery and Durian King of Fruits Museum.

At the gallery, visitors can learn about Penang’s history and how it came to be known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ while the museum highlights how the fruit is grown.

Meanwhile, the Jurassic Research Centre will transport you back hundreds of millions of years to see over 200 dinosaurs come alive.

Visitors can also dive into the abyss with the Ocean Explorer and get up close and personal with majestic marine life.

Other attractions to explore include the Top Boutique Aquarium, Tech Dome Penang, Musical Carousel, Zombie Outbreak, Magic Mirror Maze, UFO-X, 7D Motion Discovery Theatre, Dance Oki and Dyno Gym.

High-speed elevators will whisk you to the Level 65 Observatory Deck where panoramic 360-degree views await. See George Town, Penang island and even Seberang Prai from a different perspective up high.

Brave yourselves to try the glass Rainbow Skywalk on Level 68 too.

Visitors can top up RM5 to enjoy the Augmented Reality Virtual Greatest Show with 3D interactive video animation. You will get to be ‘the star’ of your own show (normal rate RM21 for adults and RM11 for children).

Endless fun awaits at The Top Penang so plan your visit today. The 50% off promotion is valid only for walk-in purchases of admission tickets at the ticketing counters.

One also has to show proof of being a Penangite. Only bearers of MyKads with the Penang state codes of 07,34 and 35 or a Penang residential address are entitled to the discount.

Only original copies of MyKads are accepted. Other terms and conditions apply. For more information, visit thetop.com.my or call 04-262 3800.

Alternatively, follow The TOP on Facebook and thetoppenang on Instagram.

~The Star~

KTMB to suspend interstate, intercity train services from Wed

KTMB to suspend interstate, intercity train services from Wednesday (March 25)

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) will be suspending its interstate and intercity train services beginning Wednesday (March 25), and not on Tuesday (March 24) as stated earlier.

According to a statement issued on Monday (March 24), the suspension of the services is until the end of the movement control order (MCO) and the effective date was deferred to Wednesday as many commuters have bought the tickets for tomorrow's train services.

Earlier, its chief executive officer Datuk Kamarulzaman Zainal said with the suspension of the services, only two services - Electric Train Services (ETS) and KTM Intercity - would operate daily, compared to eight in the normal situation.

He said KTM Komuter operation would be reduced to 49 services a day for the Klang Valley and north sector while services of several other trains would be continued to serve certain needs.

"This includes the transporting of medical and food supplies as well as the movement of staff of various critical services involved in the enforcement of the MCO," he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Kamarulzaman said Skypark Link train services between Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station and Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang would be reduced to four services daily, against eight before.

However, he said KTMB would fully suspend Ekspres Rakyat Timuran, Ekspres Selatan and Shuttle Tebrau services until the MCO enforcement ended.

"Passengers can make amendments or cancel their tickets via the website www.ktmb.com.my, ” he said.

Meanwhile, Express Rail Link (ERL) in a separate statement, said it would limit its services, effective Tuesday (March 24) until further notice.

ERL said the KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) Ekspres and KLIA Transit will run as a combined service at 30-minute intervals from 6am to 10am, and 5pm to 10pm daily.

"Please note that there will be no train services at other times,” the statement said.

Also, the journey time between KL Sentral and KLIA will take 35 minutes, while all departures at the KL Sentral Station will be from KLIA Ekspres Departure platform. - Bernama

MATTA: Malaysia is safe for travellers

MATTA: Malaysia is safe for travellers



Fair bargains: (From left) Only World Group Holdings Bhd founder Tan Sri Richard C.K. Koh, Kho and Phua at the media conference to announce the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia programme.

The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), which is seeking to shore up domestic tourism, is assuring travellers that Malaysia is safe for holidaymakers.

“Malaysia is safe to travel. And for Malaysians, if the price is right there will be action,” said Rocky Kho, chairman of the oversight committee on MATTA Fair’s Cuti-Cuti Malaysia.

He cited the Finance Ministry’s personal income tax relief of up to RM1,000 on expenses for domestic tourism, which was part of Stimulus Package 2020 announced last month.“That is an incentive for Malaysians to travel domestically,” he told a press conference yesterday that was focused on Cuti-Cuti Malaysia events by MATTA Fair, which will be held on April 4 and 5 at the KL Convention Centre.

MATTA said the event would be the first-ever fully local tourism-centric event under its banner.

While there are no plans to have temperature checks during the event, medical personnel will be on standby.

Amid the drop in the tourism industry globally in view of the Covid-19 outbreak, Kho said the domestic tourism market was there to tap into.

“We really don’t know when this outbreak will be over. We’re praying hard that things will pick up again by May. We are hearing news from China that the numbers would be coming back by the end of April, hopefully,” he said.

MATTA chief executive officer Phua Tai Neng said they would follow guidelines set by the Health Ministry in combating the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

“We are always guided by their advice,” he said.

On another matter, MATTA congratulated Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri for her appointment as Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister.

“We have met with YB before and I think she is a very good minister. She’s very open,” said Phua.

~The Star~

New Tourism Minister pledges effective solutions to boost industry

New Tourism Minister pledges effective solutions to boost industry



New Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri is committed to coming up with effective solutions and long-term measures for the tourism sector.

The Batang Sadong MP said she was aware that many industry players, including airlines, were facing trying times from Covid-19 and falling oil prices.

"With the apparent impact of Covid-19 on the world economy, businesses and routines are adversely affected. Coupled with the downward trend of crude oil prices, it is clear that we have to work harder to overcome the challenges ahead.

"I believe our economy is resilient enough to face these challenges.

"With this new Cabinet line-up, we shall take advantage of all opportunities available to persevere through this crisis," she said in a statement on Tuesday (March 10).

Nancy thanked Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg for their trust in appointing her to the Cabinet.

She pledged to put the needs of the country and people first in her ministerial duties and to uphold the principles of fairness and equity.

"I shall endeavour to continue serving the people of Malaysia regardless of race, religion and political alliances.

"My focus will be on delivery with the notion of accountability to the rakyat," she said.

She also assured Sarawakians that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) would remain focused on preserving and safeguarding the state's constitutional rights and the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
v "To my constituents in Batang Sadong, I am still the same Nancy Shukri you know and will continue to serve you in my capacity as the Member of Parliament of Batang Sadong," she added.

~The Star~

COVID-19: Malaysia bars entry of cruise vessels

COVID-19: Malaysia bars entry of cruise vessels

Malaysia will not to permit entry of cruise vessels to its ports with immediate effect due to the COVID-19 outbreak until the overall situation improves and the spread of the virus is contained, said Health Director-General Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

He said in view of the recent resurgence of COVID-19 cases in Malaysia and around the world, various measures were being taken by the Malaysian authorities to contain local transmission and to safeguard public health.

He said entry and transit of cruise vessels, passengers and crew members require considerable medical resources to be made available at ports for screening and treatment purposes.

"During this difficult period, it is important that more medical resources are concentrated at hospitals to attend to medical emergencies and undertake preventive measures.

"As such the Ministry of Health in consultation with other government ministries and agencies has taken the decision not to permit the entry of cruise vessels to Malaysian ports," he said in a Facebook posting today.

Dr Noor Hisham said the Health Ministry aknowledged that the cruise industry is an important component of Malaysia’s tourism sector and has contributed significantly to the Malaysian economy but was hopeful that this is a temporary measure and was confident that the concerted efforts of all parties will assist in resolving the issue at hand soonest possible.

-- BERNAMA

Curry puff

A curry puff (Malay: Karipap, Epok-epok; ) is a snack of Southeast Asian origin. It is a small pie consisting of curry with chicken and potatoes in a deep-fried or baked pastry shell. The curry is quite thick to prevent it from oozing out of the snack.



A common snack in Malaysia and Singapore, the curry puff is one of several "puff" type pastries with different fillings, though now it is by far the most common. Other common varieties include eggs, sardines, and onions or sweet fillings such as yam.

Curry puffs are enjoyed throughout Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Myanmar and Thailand. It also shares many similarities with the empanada, a popular pastry in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries.

In Malaysia, curry puffs are commonly found sold freshly fried at many Malay, Chinese and Indian food stalls and even at trendy cafes.

Another Malay version of this snack is known as epok-epok and teh-teh which is smaller than the curry puff. The curry puffs from Indian bakeries differ from epok-epok in the use of 'layered' pastry that creates a flaky crust. Other varieties of the epok epok are filled with a half boiled egg instead of chicken. Another alternative is tinned sardines.There are also vegetarian curry puffs that are in fact not spicy and made from shredded radish, tofu, potatoes and grated carrots. They are often eaten with sweet chili sauce. There is also relatively large and nice looking version of curry puff called shell curry puff sold in shopping malls of Isetan and AEON and others in Malaysia.

Manufacturers have developed a version of the curry puff that can be frozen and later reheated by the consumer. These are suitable for the export market and can be produced in volume for shipment to various regions, such as the Middle East, where there is demand. In addition, new fillings have been experimented with, including tuna and black pepper.

In Indian food stalls in Malaysia, it is quite common to find vegetarian curry puffs with potatoes, carrots and onions as fillings.

~Wikipedia~

Sup Kambing (Mutton Soup)

Sup Kambing or Sop Kambing is a mutton soup from Indonesia, commonly found in Indonesian cuisine and Malaysian cuisine. It is prepared with goat meat, tomato, celery, spring onion, ginger, candlenut and lime leaf, its broth is yellowish in colour.



In Malaysia, sup kambing is associated with Muslim Malaysian Indian community and believed to be of Indian origin. In Singapore, the dish is also associated with the Muslim Indian community of the island.

Ingredients

There are many versions of sup kambing recipes, however there are two main groups of sup kambing traditions; the Indonesian version are derived mainly from Arab, and to some extent, Dutch influences, while Malaysian and Singaporean version is often called as sup kambing Mamak which solely derived from Muslim Indian influences. Other main differences are the Malaysian and Singaporean version consists of the chunks of goat meat in yellowish, rather thick and oily broth with rich spices; while in Indonesian version, the goat meat often also includes its bones (ribs or leg bones), has a lighter broth and balanced spices, and it also contains slices of vegetables including tomato, leek, celery, carrot and sometimes potato.

A simple sup kambing recipe uses goat meat, slices of tomato, leek, celery, and ground spices which includes; ginger, pepper, garlic, shallot and salt. However, another elaborate recipes might add more complex spices, which might includes cardamom, cinnamon, candlenut, nutmeg, clove and star anise to add aroma and taste.

~Wikipedia~

Beautify side, back lanes to attract visitors

Penang to beautify side, back lanes to attract visitors


The Penang Town Hall building in the George Town Unesco World Heritage Site. NSTP/File pic

It is business as usual in Penang in the wake of the political crisis in the country as the state government continues with its development plans for the benefit of the people.

At 8am yesterday, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow launched a project to upgrade and beautify side and back lanes for bicycles, as well as pedestrian routes within the George Town Unesco World Heritage Site.

He said back lanes in the city were alternative access routes for members of the public, besides serving as maintenance paths, and they would be enhanced with art, landscaping and street furniture to attract visitors.

“These lanes will be upgraded to provide space for recreation, neighbourhood activities and greenery in the city.

“The facilities can also be used for a variety of activities by the local community.

“This will create a sense of safety, cleanliness and wellbeing so that the lanes can be used at all times,” he said when launching the project stretching from Lebuh Ah Quee to Lorong Pitt here.

He said Penang was the best example of a city that achieved the Sustainable Development Goals, including healthy living and wellbeing of the people, equality, good jobs and strong economic growth, as well as a sustainable city and society.

“Penang is one of the leading cities in the world, but we still give priority to our environment and heritage sites amid rapid growth.

“The facilities, services and infrastructure we offer have turned the heritage site into a destination of choice for the local community and foreigners to visit, relax and live in.” Bernama

Penang Hill funicular train service to shut down for 7 days

Penang Hill funicular train service to shut down for 7 days


The Penang Hill funicular train service will be temporarily shut down for seven days. -NSTP File pic

The Penang Hill funicular train service will be temporarily shut down for seven days from June 18 for the second bi-annual scheduled maintenance works.

According to a statement issued by Penang Hill Corporation (PHC), the train operations will resume on June 25.

"PHC schedules two major scheduled maintenance every year for the funicular system under the supervision of the engineers from the funicular manufacturer (Garaventa AG from Switzerland) to ensure tip-top running condition and meet stringent safety compliance.

"PHC also conducts regular checks and maintenance of its funicular system on daily, weekly and monthly basis, plus routine inspections that are carried out after operation hours," the statement said.

According to the statement, during the shutdown period, visitors may opt for the privately-operated jeep service from Botanical Gardens, or take the existing hiking routes to reach the summit area of Penang Hill.

"PHC would like to thank all visitors for their patience and continuous support to Penang Hill. Any inconvenience caused is very much regretted," the statement added.

Members of the public can contact PHC at 04-8288880 or send an email to inquiries@penanghill.gov.my for any clarification. -- Bernama

Pisang Goreng - Fried Banana

Pisang goreng (fried banana in Indonesian/Malay) is a snack made of banana or plantain, covered in batter or not, being deep fried in hot cooking oil, and is popular in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.



Pisang goreng is most often associated with Indonesia, and indeed the country has the largest variety of pisang goreng recipes. However, this fried banana snack is also considered native to neighbouring countries; particularly Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore. 

It is consumed as a snack in the morning and afternoon. In Indonesia and Malaysia, pisang goreng is often sold by street vendors, although some sellers have a storefront from which to sell their wares.

~Wikiepdia~

Maiden flight brings 188 from Taipei to Penang

Maiden flight brings 188 from Taipei to Penang



The Starlux carrier receiving a water canon salute at PIA.

IT was a warm welcome for 188 passengers onboard Taiwan’s brand new carrier, Starlux Airlines, after touching down at the Penang International Airport (PIA).

The new carrier made its inaugural flight from Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) in Taipei to Penang last Thursday.

As passengers disembarked from the aircraft, kompang troupes played loudly and the airlines’ staff distributed goodie bags to the passengers.

The new airline, using the Airbus A321neo with a 188-seating capacity, will operate one flight daily between Penang and Taipei.

Starlux Airlines chief executive officer Glenn Chai said they believe that there is great potential between both cities in terms of travelling opportunities.

“Penang is a city with amazing history and scenic views, and we think Penang is underrated among Taiwanese.

“As such, we chose Penang for our maiden flight to Malaysia, as we believe both cities can boost one another’s tourism sectors, ” he said during the press conference at PIA.



The Airbus A321neo with 188 seats features eight seats in business class and 180 in economy class.

“Each seat in both classes is equipped with a personal entertainment system featuring a 10.1-inch 720p screen, which is the first on narrow-body aircraft in Taiwan.

“Besides, Wifi service is also provided in both classes, ” he added.

Penang tourism development, arts, culture and heritage committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said they welcomed the inaugural flight, which was the first new international flight in ‘Experience Penang Year 2020’.

“The commencement of a new direct flight route brings many benefits.

“Besides increasing connectivity to facilitate easier travel arrangements, each aircraft will also bring in flight crew members.

“These flight crew members can experience Penang and return to share with their relatives in Taiwan about the interesting attractions in Penang and Malaysia.

“As such, we hope that the crew members of Starlux Airlines will also be able to take this opportunity to experience the charm of Penang as a melting pot, true to its identity as The Diversity of Asia, ” he said in his speech.

The Starlux Airlines flights will take off at 3pm daily from Penang and arrive at TPE around 8pm while inbound flights will depart at 9.20am and land at PIA at 2pm.

~The Star~

Gurney Wharf expected to be completed by August 2021

Penang's Gurney Wharf expected to be completed by August 2021



The Penang government expects the Gurney Wharf project to be completed by August 2021.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state government would sign the agreement to appoint the consultant for the Gurney Wharf project at some point in February.

"After that, there will be a contract, a tender to be called to appoint a contractor to start planting trees and planning the landscape as well as ensuring that the waterfront project would be completed in the next 18 months.

“We hope by 2021, not only the residents from Pulau Tikus, but also people from Penang will be able to enjoy a new waterfront at Gurney Wharf.

“This is in line with the state government’s vision of becoming a green and smart state that can inspire the nation,” Chow said in his speech during a Chinese New Year open house event at Pulau Tikus here, today.

Gurney Wharf, a new seafront public park, is a state government initiative, with its conceptual master plan by Grant Associates, an internationally-renowned consultant architect firm.

Grant Associates has been involved in various international projects including in the United Kingdom, such as the The Hive, Bristol Harbour Site and Cambridge Accordia, and also Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay.

--BERNAMA