Great Expectations
It’s exciting to know that the next time I visit Penang, I will be seeing some new developments taking place. Positioned strategically at the mouth of the second Penang Bridge, officially known as the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Bridge, Batu Kawan is poised to become a modern satellite city of the future. A vast swampland spanning over 6,000 acres, the vacant condition of the land allows the state’s urban authorities a blank slate to start carefully planning and designing a city that is liveable and functional with room for growth, innovation and creativity. The authorities also intend for it to be a low-carbon city, with efficient public transport and designated bicycle lanes, as well as a massive 30ha public park and a 2km-long artificial beach. It’s a colossal and ambitious undertaking, for sure, but when it is all done and dusted, Batu Kawan will have the distinction of being a model city which can be emulated. Having set up premier shopping mall The Spring in Kuching, PE Land is now turning its sights on development opportunities in Batu Kawan. Enter the Design Village, a premium outlet mall spearheaded by siblings Joanna and Ronald Ling, who are featured in our Close-up this month. Apart from being the biggest outlet mall in Malaysia and among neighbouring countries, it is also infused with an artsy touch and unique design elements along with thoughtful details for shoppers’ comfort such as air-cooled walkways, ample rest and seating areas, covered walkways and shady landscaping. Plus, the trump card—the best of Penang’s hawker cuisine! It’s a shopper’s paradise indeed, and just in time for Christmas shopping too. With it slated to open in November, it would definitely get crowded as December rolls along, so it’s best to get your shopping done early. With the school holidays just around the corner, I expect travel plans are also in order. Therefore it’s worth checking out our extended travel section that will hopefully inspire you on where to go for your next holiday. We’ve done the legwork for you, from rounding up some sexy new spots in Europe to visit, plus some durable luggage and got some recommendations on cool destinations from our intrepid travellers. Also, don’t forget to check Malaysiatatler.com for other inspired getaways and travel tips. There are definitely lots to look forward to in the coming months running up to the year-end, and the festivities are about to start with the Malaysia Tatler Ball, this October 21.
— Elizabeth Soong Managing Editor