What's hot in Penang this Week (25-31 JAN 2008)

abbas abdul across adie another arif attempt august bahang bar braun bridge civilians customs development fire food forest fund george german help inside invested jan lanka ly1nkdpj4bq national nvf once part plans plenitude project relief rm200m smuggler soap sri story tamil the thwart tigers town video visit worth year youtube

AlJazeeraEnglish Bernama Malaysia Star New Straits Times Siber News Media The Edge Daily

Malaysia

‘No more congestion on Penang Bridge’ Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 31, 2009 By CHRISTINA CHIN GEORGE TOWN: Being stuck in the infamous Penang Bridge traffic crawl will be a thing of the past once the widening project is completed. ... Penang Bridge To Be Regraded In August Bernama all 2 news articles »

Penang Customs thwart drug smuggler's soap bar ruse New Straits Times, Malaysia - Jan 31, 2009 Penang Customs thwarted an attempt to smuggle RM262,000 worth of ketamine hidden in soap bars and food containers by an Indian national at the Bayan Lepas ...

Glitches mar Penang Chinese New Year celebration New Straits Times, Malaysia - Jan 30, 2009 It was 10pm when the food for the distinguished guests, including Penang Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and his wife Toh Puan Majimor Shariff, ...

Still more to do on Penang feud New Straits Times, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 By Adie Suri Zulkeflinews@nst.com.my KEPALA BATAS: Penang Umno has not yet made peace with Gerakan despite leaders of both sides having met at the latter's ... Arif Shah 'not crossing over' New Straits Times all 2 news articles »

More can be done for Penang Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 IT IS the time of the year where I return to my hometown, Penang, to visit family and friends. Seeing Penang once again was a great relief, and I must say ...

German visits Penang again and again Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 By IAN MCINTYRE GEORGE TOWN: To octogenarian German Wilma Budke, Penang is her very own “Fantasy Island” and it is like paying “homage” whenever she flies ...

Malaysia Star

German firm expands ops in Penang Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 He also said B. Braun remained upbeat about its expansion plans with the support of the Penang Government. He said B. Braun had to-date invested RM1bil and ... 30-01-2009: B Braun to invest RM300m more in Penang plants The Edge Daily all 2 news articles »

30-01-2009: Plenitude plans another RM200m development in Penang The Edge Daily, Malaysia - Jan 30, 2009 by Regina William GEORGE TOWN: Plenitude Bhd is planning to embark on another residential development project worth RM200 million in Penang, fresh from ...

BBC News

Fund to help civilians under fire in Sri Lanka Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 30, 2009 By K. KASTURI DEWI GEORGE TOWN: Penang DAP has launched its Sri Lankan Tamils Relief Fund to help ethnic Tamil civilians injured in the fighting between the ... Video: Inside Story - Is it the end for the Tamil Tigers? Jan 27- Part AlJazeeraEnglish After Mullaitheevu: Fate of Prabhakaran and Future of LTTE Siber News Media all 5,236 news articles »

Forest Fire Near Penang National Park
Bernama, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009
TELUK BAHANG, Jan 29 (Bernama) -- Fire, believed to have been caused by the current hot spell, spread across eight hectares of forest near the Penang ...

FA Cup action diverts focus away from criticism of M-League
Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 31, 2009
Penang host Johor FC at the City Stadium in the round’s only all-Super League clash. The islanders did well to hold out for a 2-2 draw in Pasir Gudang when ...
Robbers preying on 'timid' foreign workers New Straits Times
all 3 news articles »

Hard Rock Hotel Penang to open its doors soon Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 28, 2009 Formerly the Casuarina Beach Resort which was closed in December 2006 for an upgrading and repositioning exercise, Hard Rock Hotel Penang will have 249 ...

Sin Chew Jit Poh

Penang Economy In Need Of Twist Of Fate Sin Chew Jit Poh, Malaysia - Jan 28, 2009 Intel told the state government although it would wind up its two plants in Penang, the company would not lay off any employee. All affected employees will ...

Telegraph.co.uk

Malaysian shoe guru Jimmy Choo plans teaching academies: report AFP - Jan 31, 2009 Choo, who was in his home town of Penang to celebrate Chinese New Year for the first time in 15 years, said he was proud that US First Lady Michelle Obama ... Jimmy Choo-ses Malaysia Malaysia Star all 14 news articles »

Steps to boost IMT-GT Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 By IAN MCINTYRE THE Penang Government is taking an aggressive approach to promote the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) and make the ...

Malaysia Star

Tedious disembarkation Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 Penang Port Commission (PPC) chairman Tan Cheng Liang said the commission, on the advice of the Transport Ministry, terminated the services of the ... Warm reception for cruise ship visitors New Straits Times all 3 news articles »

Times Online

Nightlife and culture in Penang? Times Online, UK - Jan 28, 2009 We are looking for a beach break with some culture and nightlife nearby, and have decided on Penang. Is this a good choice, and can we get a week there in a ...

Urban design plan for George Town Inner City The Sun Daily, Malaysia - Jan 30, 2009 "This plan will enable us to protect, preserve and promote the heritage characteristics of George Town as a Unesco World Heritage site," said Penang Chief ...

Enclave plan to sustain George Town AsiaOne, Singapore - 5 hours ago ... said the enclaves identified under the plan to be implemented by the Penang Municipal Council are the Civic area, Weld Quay waterfront redevelopment ...

Over 8000 traffic summonses issued in Penang
Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 28, 2009
By MANJIT KAUR GEORGE TOWN: Over 8000 summonses have been issued to motorists and motorcyclists in Penang for various traffic regulations since Jan 19, ...

Dining for a good cause
Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009
Hotel general manager Jeff De Silva praised the hotel guests who found time on that evening to donate to the underprivileged in Penang. ...

Malaysia Star

Association looking for bigger premises Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 By TUNKU SHAHARIAH DUE to the expansion of its membership, the Penang Down Syndrome Association (PDSA) needs to move into a new centre by March but up to ...

No action against Ahmad Ismail The Malaysian Insider, Malaysia - Jan 31, 2009 The police have wrapped up investigations into a sedition charge against him but thanks to the intervention of senior party leaders, the veteran Penang Umno ...

Panasonic, Qimonda blow for Malaysia electronics sector ZDNet Asia, Singapore - Jan 29, 2009 Closing the Penang plants would affect over 1000 of Intel's 10000-strong Malaysian workforce. Under the restructuring, Intel will also close an assembly ...

Malaysia Star

Penang air freight forwarding dives Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 25, 2009 By DAVID TAN Penang Freight Forwarders Association (PAFFA) president Joachim Loo said December was the worst month in the past seven years for the air ...

Pride of Place : Penang’s heritage and geomancy showcase / Augusto ... Inquirer.net, Philippines - Jan 25, 2009 It got to the point of being occupied by squatters until a group of concerned Penang citizens who realized that developmental pressure on the land would ...

Malaysia Star

Amazing feats wow shoppers Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 By JEREMY TAN THE Year of the Ox was ushered in with style at the Gurney Plaza in Penang as shoppers were treated to an ensemble of unique entertainment ...

Touch of song and colour for CNY Malaysia Star, Malaysia - Jan 29, 2009 “Their sacrifice is worthwhile as they can try our specialities such as assam laksa, char keow teow and prawn mee prepared by our chefs from Penang,” he ...

Malaysia: Penang Umno owes RM237,000 to municipal council
Mathaba.Net, UK - Jan 28, 2009
So, what about the Umno Tower in Macalister Road, Penang Island? Does that have the arrears of unpaid assessments as well? The other Umno buildings in the ...

新年快乐 (xīnnián kuàilè) - Happy Chinese New Year!

Have a great holiday!

What's Hot in Penang this Week (18-24 JAN 2009)

Straits Times

3 out of Penang PKR line-up
Straits Times, Singapore - 24 Jan 2009
GEORGE TOWN - PARTI Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) has dropped three top leaders from their posts in a key party committee in Penang, raising afresh talk of a ...
Deputy CM out of Penang PKR line-up Malaysia Star
Shake-up in Penang PKR exposes deep rifts New Straits Times
Penang PKR drops three from line-up Daily Express
all 4 news articles »

AsiaOne

Human skull used by punters found Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 24 Jan 2009 He then called the police who subsequently took the skull and handed it over to the Penang Hospital. There were also some alphabets and numbers written on ... Human skull used by punters to get 4D numbers AsiaOne all 4 news articles »

New allied health sciences college
Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 24 Jan 2009
DR SHARAVANAN: Students who study at Surya College will have a ready pathway to further their studies at Penang International Dental College or Vinayaka ...


Earthtimes (press release)

Dengue Cases Rising, Public Advised To Be Cautious
Bernama, Malaysia - 24 Jan 2009
He said besides the Klang Valley, other states, particularly Penang and Kedah were also recording a higher number of dengue cases lately. From Jan 1 to 23, ...
Selangor tops list as dengue cases continue to rise Malaysia Star
Malaysian sees sharp increase in dengue fever cases Monsters and Critics.com
all 35 news articles »


Sun2Surf

Abdul Kalam’s trail of lessons
Sun2Surf, Malaysia - 24 Jan 2009
The 77-year old Abdul Kalam, who was president of India from 2002 to 2007, arrived in Penang for two days last weekend in an official visit organised by ...
Kalam For Global Anti-Terror Force Under the UN India Journal
all 2 news articles »

Malaysia Star

A sure sign of trust
Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 24 Jan 2009
Over in Penang, several Chinese schools have promised to use the government’s timely “ang pau” wisely. SMJK Heng Ee principal Goh Boon Poh describes the ...

Malaysia Star

Penang resumes free inner city shuttle service Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 By PRISCILLA DIELENBERG GEORGE TOWN: Penang has re-introduced the free shuttle bus service within George Town’s inner city, which will operate from 6am to ... 23-01-2009: Penang to create temporary jobs for unemployed The Edge Daily Reduction In Electricity Tariff Can Help Reduce Retrenchment Bernama Making Penang a pearl again Malaysia Star all 4 news articles »

Penang PKR drops three from committee Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 BUKIT MERTAJAM: The Penang PKR liaison committee dropped three state executive councillors from its line-up and appointed several leaders into the committee ... 23-01-2009: Penang PKR wants more prominent role in state govt The Edge Daily all 8 news articles »

BBC News

Intel factory in Cavite closed by second half of 2009 ABS CBN News, Philippines - 23 Jan 2009 The world's biggest chip maker decided to close the Philippine factory, two more assembly plants in Penang, Malaysia, and a wafer fabrication facility in ... Intel axes five plants, 5000 workers Register Intel shuts older manufacturing facilities TMCnet Intel to shut down five plants VNUNet.com Inquirer.net - EE Times UK all 813 news articles »

Penang Approves RM10mil To Help Unemployed Get Jobs Bernama, Malaysia - 22 Jan 2009 PENANG, Jan 22 (Bernama) -- The Penang state government has approved a RM10-million grant for the Career Assistance and Training (CAT) centre to help the ... Be efficient to help lure investors to Penang, civil servants told Malaysia Star Intel in Penang - closing or not closing? Cnet Asia No mistaking who’s the boss The Sun Daily The Edge Daily - Sin Chew Jit Poh all 16 news articles »

Intel to close two Penang plants but no layoffs AsiaOne, Singapore - 23 Jan 2009 Its Penang corporate affairs manager Loo Cheng Cheng said the 1000 employees affected by the closure would be offered comparable job positions at the ...

750 free WiFi hotspots for Penang in two years The Sun Daily, Malaysia - 21 Jan 2009 GEORGE TOWN (Jan 21, 2009) : Penang will have up to 750 free WiFi hotspots in two years’ time despite protests from various anti-WiFi groups about the ...

Good News, Bad News, Slow News Sin Chew Jit Poh, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 Bad news: Intel to shutter factories in Penang. Slow news: After a long wait, the RM7 billion stimulus package would only be carried out two weeks later. ...

Women held in illegal 4D shop bust Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 He said police had raided 33 illegal lottery counting centres in Penang and arrested 20 people in the first 20 days of the year, adding that 588 centres ... Cops bust illegal lottery centre New Straits Times all 3 news articles »

Sin Chew Jit Poh

Taiwanese New Year Dishes To Ease Homesickness Sin Chew Jit Poh, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 (Photo courtesy: Guang Ming Daily) PENANG: Malaysian Chinese always prepare exotic dishes during Chinese New Year while Taiwanese Hakka would eat the best ...

Malaysia Star

Firefly eyes 1.4 million passengers this year Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 It wants four daily flights from Subang and several daily flights from points such as Malacca, Kuala Terengganu, Penang and Kuantan. ... 23-01-2009: Firefly eyes Singapore route by April, additional ... The Edge Daily Firefly opens latest ticketing office at Terminal 3 in Subang Malaysia Star all 3 news articles »

Malaysia Star

Plan to build car park for Kek Lok Si Temple visitors Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 THE Penang Government and the Kek Lok Si Temple at the Air Itam hills will build a multi-storey car park at the foot of the hill. ... Kek Lok Si lights up for peace and luck New Straits Times all 2 news articles »

The Edge Daily

Najib: gradual freeze on intake of foreign workers The Sun Daily, Malaysia - 22 Jan 2009 Asked about Intel Corporation in Penang said to dismiss some 6000 workers, Najib said: "We are not sure about the numbers but we are monitoring it very ... Gradual layoff for foreigners Malaysia Star Govt To Reduce Foreign Workers In Stages - Najib Bernama POLITICS-MALAYSIA: By-Poll Debacle May Hit Reforms Inter Press Service Asia Times Online all 45 news articles »

20-01-2009: Penang’s WiMAX coverage to hit 70% in 18 months The Edge Daily, Malaysia - 19 Jan 2009 by Regina William GEORGE TOWN: The first batch of the seven locations for Wireless@Penang WiMAX coverage commenced with a test drive launch yesterday of ... Wimax services under Wireless@Penang begin Telecompaper P1 begins WiMAX in Penang, 70% coverage of the state expected in ... TeleGeography Packet One invests RM30mil in WiMAX broadband Malaysia Star all 4 news articles »

Free Bus Ride At Penang Heritage Site Bernama, Malaysia - 20 Jan 2009 PENANG, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- Visitors to the World Heritage site in Georgetown can enjoy a free bus ride in the area ride starting Friday. ...

Penang Sentral project hits another snag Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 20 Jan 2009 By DERRICK VINESH BUTTERWORTH: The RM2bil Penang Sentral transportation and logistics hub project has hit another snag with the Seberang Prai Municipal ...

AirAsia To Launch Penang-Macau Route From March 1 Bernama, Malaysia - 18 Jan 2009 KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 19 (Bernama) -- AirAsia will launch its new international route from Penang to Macau beginning March 1 this year. ...

Capturing life’s intricacies Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 He is currently exhibiting 33 oil on canvas pieces in Penang at the Galeri Seni Mutiara. His first ever solo, themed Bewilder, features artworks that range ...

Fund to aid Campbell Street fire victims Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 8 hours ago The Monday blaze in Penang left 18 persons homeless. Komtar assemblyman Ng Wei Aik (pic) said a photo exhibition of the fire would also be set up at the ...

The Edge Daily

23-01-2009: Fall in consumer spending hits retail sector The Edge Daily, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009 Meanwhile, OSK Research analyst Eing Kar Mei said the slowing retail sales would be particularly felt in Penang as several key manufacturing firms were ...

One In A Million returns to 8TV
New Straits Times, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009
Today’s two episodes will showcase the audition sessions in Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Penang, Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur. Penang and Johor Baru were thronged ...

Simple fun
Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 23 Jan 2009
However, I was cornered into promising to take her for the fifth edition of the Penang Island Jazz Festival last month, and braced myself for what I ...

66 hawkers in limbo Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 21 Jan 2009 Penang Public Works, Utilities and Transportation Commit- tee chairman Lim Hock Seng said the hawkers would be “homeless” for about six months to facilitate ... Markets to undergo massive cleanup Malaysia Star all 2 news articles »

Penang CM: Consider building a LCCT in Penang New Straits Times, Malaysia - 16 Jan 2009 Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng wants the Ministry of Transport to urgently consider the state’s proposal to build a Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT). ... 'Penang won't boycott American goods' New Straits Times all 4 news articles »

Police detain seven over gambling and illegal lottery activities New Straits Times, Malaysia - 22 Jan 2009 The Penang police have arrested three men and four women in connection with gambling and illegal lottery activities, following two separate raids here. ...

20-01-2009: Plenitude to launch maiden Penang project The Edge Daily, Malaysia - 19 Jan 2009 PENANG: Plenitude Bhd subsidiary Plenitude Heights Sdn Bhd will officially launch its maiden Penang property development in Bayu Ferringhi on Jan 30. ...

100 Employees In Penang May Lose Jobs Bernama, Malaysia - 16 Jan 2009 PENANG, Jan 16 (Bernama) -- Penang is feeling the impact of the global economic meltdown, with the state government expecting about 100 employees in various ... 16-01-2009: Penang has no intention of boycotting US goods The Edge Daily 16-01-2009: MNCs in Penang pledge not to lay off workers The Edge Daily We Don't Practise Double Standards - Guan Eng Bernama all 5 news articles »

ACMS Provides Twinning Programme With Ireland Universities Bernama, Malaysia - 22 Jan 2009 PENANG, Jan 22 (Bernama) -- The Allianze College of Medical Sciences (ACMS) will offer a medical degree via a twinning programme with two established ...

AirAsia lobbies Penang for LCCT New Straits Times, Malaysia - 14 Jan 2009 By Marina Emmanuelmarinae@nst.com.my PENANG: Low-cost carrier AirAsia Bhd is looking at Penang as a potential hub for a low-cost carrier terminal (LCCT). ...

PRESS DIGEST - Malaysia - Jan 23 Reuters - 23 Jan 2009 Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng will implement infrastructure projects this year that will unlock the value of state-owned land and equip the state with ... PRESS DIGEST - Malaysia - Jan 22 Reuters all 197 news articles »

Malaysia Star

NY Times readers choose Penang as No 2 must-visit destination for 2009 Malaysia Star, Malaysia - 17 Jan 2009 By CHRISTINA CHIN GEORGE TOWN: Readers of The New York Times have chosen Penang as the second best destination among “44 Places To Go in 2009”. ...

The seven principles to success

10 Januari - Mahasiswa perlu menghayati 7 prinsip utama dalam menjayakan universiti setelah dipilih sebagai universiti APEX pertama negara ini. Ketujuh-tujuh prinsip tersebut ialah Masa Hadapan, Kelainan, Kelestarian, Kemanusiaan, Kesejagatan, Perubahan dan Pengorbanan.

Dalam ucapannya kepada lebih 300 orang pemimpin pelajar yang menghadiri Kursus Kepimpinan di dewan kuliah U, USM, Naib Canselor, Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Dzulkifli Abdul Razak menjelaskan bahawa kejayaan USM sebagai sebuah Universiti APEX dapat dicapai melalui penghayatan dan pengisian terhadap ketujuh-tujuh prinsip tersebut.

Read the entire "TUJUH PRINSIP KEJAYAAN UNIVERSITI APEX" article at Berita USM.

Go away, Go safe, Go celebrate!

It's coming to our shore... Mark the dates: 21st - 20th of February 2009. Catch up with more gossips at Project Gossip blogspot.

Rock Tune for 2009

Now that Penang is in the top lists for tourist stops in 2009 (following the top rank in New York Times 44 Places to Go in 2009, and the UNESCO's Heritage Site inclusion in 2008) , it's only natural that there will be more hotels opening very soon in Penang's hotspots. And while Penang is a definite next target for the Tony Fernandes & co for new airport and hotel off his Air Asia & Tune ventures, with the already completed Tune Hotel at Jalan Burmah to open as early as 1st of April 2009, the first Malaysia's Hard Rock Hotel (HRH, minus the casino) on the island will surely resonate a deep vibe for Penang's locals and visitors.

When this Hard Rock Penang (Hard Rock's 10th hotel worldwide) opens in Batu Feringhi by mid 2009, Penang will join only two hosts in Asia - Bali (Indonesia) and Pattaya (Thailand), to host these Seminole Tribe of Florida-owned (the 1971-established Hard Rock brand, since March 2007) popular hotels, first popularized in the United States destinations of Las Vegas (first to open, in 1995), Biloxi, Kansas City (pending), Tampa and Hollywood (Florida).

Besides Penang, another HRH is planned to open in Macau this year, with Palm Springs, Atlanta and Panama to follow, scheduled for 2010; Dubai, scheduled to open in 2011; and Abu Dhabi, scheduled to open in 2012.

Read on the press releases on Hard Rock Penang (since 2007):-

HPL HOTELS & RESORTS
50 Cuscaden Road
#05-02 HPL House
Singapore 249724
Tel: (65) 6735 2811
Fax: (65) 6235 3216
Email: corporate@hplhotels.com
Website: www.hplhotels.com
Member of the HPL Group
CO. REG. NO. 199704528Z

Hard Rock International and HPL Hotels & Resorts Announce Development of Hard Rock Hotel Penang

Innovators In Hotel Property Development To Deliver Unprecedented Four-Star, Luxury To Exotic Malaysian Resort Setting

Orlando, FL – October 27, 2007 – Hard Rock International and Hotel Properties Limited (HPL) announced
today their plans to develop a Hard Rock Hotel in Penang, Malaysia. Hard Rock Hotel Penang will be a luxury
resort situated along the famous beaches of Batu Ferringhi, hailed as the Pearl of the Orient. The property,
which aims to infuse new excitement and energy into the market, underscores resurgence in tourism and
reflects Hard Rock’s strategy to accelerate expansion of the brand worldwide.

The resort is situated on nearly five acres of land with approximately two miles of magnificent beachfront on
one of Asia’s most popular island destinations. Coupled with Hard Rock’s tradition of providing luxury,
quality service and amenities with a unique rock ‘n’ roll edge, this destination resort will bring a unique
entertainment element the island has yet to offer.

“We plan to continue our Asian expansion of the Hard Rock brand with unique, new properties – including
urban hotel and destination resorts and cafes,” commented Hamish Dodds, President and CEO, Hard Rock
International. “We have a long standing and successful partnership with HPL Hotels & Resorts through the
Hard Rock Hotel properties in Bali and Pattaya.”

Through a major renovation of the existing property, HPL Hotels & Resorts will completely revamp the
existing five-story main building, add additional rooms and maintain one of the two current beachfront
bungalows, converting it into a full service luxury spa. The renovation and expansion will increase
guestroom keys from 180 to 255, configured as mostly deluxe rooms with hill, sea, garden or lagoon views.
There will also be nine studio suites and one Kings’ suite. Four food and beverage outlets are planned for the
resort, which will include a Hard Rock Cafe, an all-day dining restaurant and a bar/lounge. The resort’s main
ballroom and three function rooms offer a total of 5,700 square feet for private events and the meetings,
incentives, corporate and exhibitions clientele. Additionally, there will be a fully equipped gym and a
specialized kids' club.

A main trademark of the Hard Rock Hotel experience, Hard Rock Hotel Penang will feature an incredible
oversized free-form pool, totaling 25,833 square feet, replete with sand islands and luxurious poolside
cabanas.

“Penang has eagerly anticipated the entry of an energetic and adventurous hotel brand such as Hard Rock,”
says Stephen Lau, Chairman of HPL Hotels & Resorts. “Our company’s projected growth strategy is to
continue to open more resorts and hotels in key Asia-Pacific cities that, in partnership with like-minded
associates, will assure our guests a satisfying level of comfort backed by personalized service. Hard Rock
Hotel Penang could not be more perfect.”

“The Seminole Tribe of Florida is thrilled about further Hard Rock development in Southeast Asia,” notes Max
Osceola Jr., Member of the Seminole Tribal Council, “It’s a testament to the brand that we have such
incredible strategic partners and ample opportunity for global growth in such interesting locations. We are
looking forward to this groundbreaking new property.”
Declared as “Visit Malaysia Year” by the Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, Malaysia is
expecting an increase in the number of tourist arrivals to reach approximately 20 million in 2007; up from
17.5 million in 2006. With the “Visit Malaysia Year” 2007 campaign and the State’s efforts to bring back the
glory days of tourism to Penang, the island is expected to see a major resurgence in leisure, transient and
business travel with robust gains in overall occupancy and average rates.

~ The End ~

About Hard Rock International
With 122 high-energy Hard Rock Cafes and eight Hotels/Casinos in 47 countries, Hard Rock International is
one of the world’s most globally recognized brands. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns
the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe.
Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live
performance venues and an award-winning website. In addition to the two flagship Seminole Hard Rock
Hotels and Casinos in Tampa and Hollywood, Fla., Hard Rock Hotels/Casinos are located in Las Vegas, Biloxi,
Orlando, Chicago, Pattaya and Bali, with San Diego scheduled to open later in 2007. Additional hotel and
casino projects have been announced in Macau, scheduled to open in 2009, and Palm Springs, scheduled to
open in 2010. Hard Rock International, Inc. is owned by Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment, Inc. For more
information on Hard Rock, visit www.hardrock.com.

About HPL Hotels & Resorts
Headquartered in Singapore, HPL Hotels & Resorts currently manages the activities of eight hotels and
resorts in the Asia-Pacific region. These include Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Concorde Hotel Shah Alam,
Concorde Inn Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Hard Rock Hotels in Bali – Indonesia and Pattaya –
Thailand, Casa del Mar in Langkawi – Malaysia, The Lakehouse in Cameron Highlands – Malaysia and Rihiveli
Beach Resort in Maldives.

Contacts:

Dan Klores Communications

Marissa Mastellone
212-981-5210 (office)
Marissa_mastellone@dkcnews.com
HPL Hotels & Resorts

Karen Chan
(65) 6731 4902
karen.chan@hplhotels.com


Penang Gets Ready to Rock with the Opening of Malaysia’s 1st Hard Rock Hotel

22nd January 2008, Singapore – Come 2009, the tropical island of Penang will be rocking and rolling
with vibes when Malaysia’s first Hard Rock Hotel throws opens its doors. The property, which is
currently undergoing construction, will deliver a unique product which aims to infuse new excitement and
energy into the popular holiday destination.

HPL Hotels & Resorts currently manages eight properties in Asia Pacific and the Indian Ocean. These
include Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Concorde Hotel Shah Alam, Concorde Inn Kuala Lumpur
International Airport, Hard Rock Hotel Bali, Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya, Casa del Mar – Langkawi, The
Lakehouse – Cameron Highlands and Rihiveli Beach Resort – Maldives and Kandooma – Maldives,
which is due to open in mid 2008. Hard Rock Hotel Penang is the third Hard Rock Hotel in Asia and also
the third to be managed by HPL Hotels & Resorts, with the other two being Bali, Indonesia and Pattaya,
Thailand.

Fronting the beautiful beaches of Batu Ferringhi, Hard Rock Hotel Penang will offer 252 musically-
themed guestrooms, with most configured as deluxe rooms with sea, hill, and garden views; the lagoon
view rooms come with direct pool access. There will also be nine studio suites and one Kings’ suite.

Four food and beverage outlets are planned for the resort, which will include a Hard Rock Cafe, an all-
day dining restaurant and a bar/lounge. Facilities include a full service luxury spa, a fully equipped gym, a
specialized Lil’ Rock Kids Club, and a Hard Rock merchandise store. Hard Rock Hotel Penang will also
offer guests a main trademark of the Hard Rock Hotel experience, that is, an incredible oversized free-
form pool totaling 2,400 square metres, complete with sand islands, water slides and poolside cabanas.

According to Ms Karen Chan, Marketing Communications Manager for HPL Hotels & Resorts, Hard
Rock Hotel Penang will add a new entertainment dimension to the holiday destination. She said: “The
Hard Rock culture is about being irreverent and living for the moment, so you can expect Hard Rock
Hotel Penang to offer an experience that abounds with limitless energy, unparalleled creativity and
quality service … very different from the typical sun, sand and sea vacation.”

The resort will not only to appeal to both leisure and family travel, but also to corporate meetings. With a
variety of indoor and outdoor function spaces housed in a marquee garden ballroom, pre-function garden
area, and three meeting rooms, this rock ’n’ roll sanctuary will no doubt be popular with many corporate
planners.

Penang is served by many international airlines and is easily accessible from major cities in the world.
Situated about 45 minutes away by road from the Penang International Airport, Hard Rock Hotel Penang
is also just 30 minutes from Georgetown, the capital city of Penang. The island can also be reached by
road via the Penang Bridge which links it to the mainland of Peninsular Malaysia.

~ End ~

About HPL Hotels & Resorts

Headquartered in Singapore, HPL Hotels & Resorts is a hospitality management company, operated and
wholly owned by a Singapore main-board listed, Hotel Properties Limited (HPL). HPL Hotels & Resorts
currently manages eight properties in Asia Pacific and the Indian Ocean, with another two new properties
scheduled to open in the next two years. With more than 2,127 rooms, the brands include city hotels,
beach resorts, boutique properties and hillside retreat, each with its own unique style and character,
offering distinct experiences ranging from lifestyle and themed concepts to adventure and eco-tourism.
For more information, visit www.hplhotels.com.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Karen Chan – Marketing Communications Manager
T: (65) 6731 4902


HPL Hotels & Resorts appoints General Manager to open Hard Rock Hotel Penang

12 January 2009, Singapore – HPL Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the
appointment of John Primmer as General Manager for Hard Rock Hotel Penang.
A New Zealand national, Primmer has 27 years of hospitality experience, having held senior
management positions in Malaysia, New Zealand, Australia and United Kingdom for the past
17 years. He was previously the General Manager of James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
Wellington New Zealand.

Mr Greg Lee, Vice President – Operations of HPL Hotels & Resorts notes, “Primmer has a
wealth of experience in managing hotels. His experience and strong track record will be vital
in delivering the Hard Rock brand in Malaysia.”
Scheduled to open in mid-2009, Hard Rock Penang will be the first musically themed resort
in Malaysia, which aims to infuse new excitement and energy into the popular holiday
destination. Most of the 249 guestrooms are configured as deluxe rooms with sea views;
while the lagoon deluxe rooms come with direct pool access off the guest balconies.

Five food and beverage establishments are planned for the resort, which will include a Hard
Rock Café, an all-day dining restaurant, pizzeria, poolside bar and lounge. Facilities include
a full service luxury spa, a fully equipped gym, a specialised Lil’ Rock Kids Club, Teens club,
Hard Rock merchandise stores, and a 26,000 sq ft free-form swimming pool – the largest
pool in Penang.

The resort will appeal to both leisure / family travel, as well as to corporate meetings. With a
variety of indoor and outdoor function facilities including a marquee garden ballroom, pre-
function garden area, and three meeting rooms, this rock n’ roll sanctuary will be a popular
preference among many corporate meeting planners.

~ End ~

John Primmer, the newly appointed general manager at Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Angeline Loh | Marketing Communications Manager | HPL Hotels & Resorts
Email: angeline.loh@hplhotels.com | Tel: (65) 6731 4902 | Fax: (65) 6235 3216

OR

Betty Lim | Director of Sales & Marketing | Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Email: betty.lim@hardrockhotels.net | Tel: 6 (04) 881 1711 | Fax: 6 (04) 881 2155

ABOUT HPL HOTELS & RESORTS
Headquartered in Singapore, HPL Hotels & Resorts is a hospitality management company,
operated and wholly-owned by a Singapore main-board listed, Hotel Properties Limited (HPL).
HPL Hotels & Resorts currently manages the activities of 11 hotels and resorts in Asia Pacific
and the Indian Ocean. These include Concorde Hotel Singapore, Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur,
Concorde Hotel Shah Alam, Concorde Inn Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Hard Rock Hotel
Bali, Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya, Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Casa del Mar, Langkawi, The
Lakehouse, Cameron Highlands, Rihiveli Beach Resort, Maldives and Kandooma~Maldives.
For more information, please visit www.hplhotels.com.