New Go-To For Everyday Adventures — The Spläsh Crossbody Bag from Gaston Luga

As one of the top bag makers in the market, Gaston Luga consistently excels in innovation, securing their position at the forefront of bag fashion. When it comes to combining functionality with timeless design, Gaston Luga never disappoints. If you’re looking for a bag that blends style and practicality, Gaston Luga’s Spläsh Crossbody Bag in Olive is the answer. It’s sleek, versatile, and perfect for everyday use, especially if you’re always on the move. 

Stylish Yet Subtle

The Spläsh Crossbody in olive green hits that sweet spot between standing out and being easy to pair with anything. It’s got that effortless style that works for everything from casual city errands to weekend adventures. Whether you’re in gym gear or your favourite jeans and jacket, this bag will complete your look.

Practical and Built to Last

What’s great about the Spläsh is that it’s not just good-looking—it’s made to handle whatever your day throws at you. Thanks to its water-resistant material, your stuff stays safe and dry. Plus, it’s lightweight, with an adjustable strap for all-day comfort. And let’s talk about organisation: multiple compartments and secure zippers make it easy to keep your essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys right where you need them.

Eco-Friendly and Durable

Gaston Luga’s all about sustainability, and the Spläsh Crossbody is no different. It’s made from eco-friendly materials, so you know it’s built to last while also being kind to the planet. You get a bag that looks great, works well, and feels good to own.

The Verdict?

If you need a bag that checks all the boxes—style, practicality, and sustainability—the Spläsh Crossbody Bag in Olive is a winner. It’s the perfect companion for work, play, and everything in between. The Spläsh Crossbody Bag is designed to be both eye-catching and subtle. Its rich olive green shade complements a wide range of outfits, offering a chic yet understated look. Whether you’re running errands in the city or heading out for an adventure, this bag fits right in with any casual or sporty ensemble.

Practicality Meets Innovation

Made from water-resistant materials, the Spläsh ensures that your belongings stay dry, no matter the weather. The lightweight construction and adjustable strap provide comfort throughout the day, while the secure zip closures and multiple compartments make it easy to stay organised. With enough space for your essentials—such as your phone, wallet, and keys—this crossbody bag is designed for ease without compromising on style.

Final Thoughts

The Spläsh Crossbody Bag in Olive is a perfect example of how Gaston Luga merges form and function seamlessly. Its stylish yet practical design, coupled with its sustainable construction, makes it a must-have accessory for anyone seeking a fashionable yet functional bag. Whether you're headed to work, the gym, or a weekend getaway, this bag has you covered.

Do you think this is your kind of bag too?
Or are you also looking at other designs?

Head to their official website at www.gastonluga.com now and check out their beautiful bags in different styles and sizes. 

Don't forget to apply the special promo code "jjindahouse" to enjoy a 15% discount from your purchase. 

Now, it is time for your turn to show off your brand new bags!

OpenSys Technologies unveils its first DC charging station in Penang

 

With Falcon ChargePro, UOB Malaysia PV customers can now charge their EVs at Jalan Kelawei branch 

 .

From left to right: Denis Koay, Senior Vice President of Sales OpenSys (M) Berhad, Wong Siew Pooi, COO of OpenSys (M) Berhad, Lee Ai Pin, Branch Manager of Jalan Kelawei UOB Malaysia, Luke Sebastian, CEO of OpenSys Technologies Sdn Bhd, Tan Yang Cheng, Branch Manager of Lebuh Bishop UOB Malaysia

PETALING JAYA, 21 August 2024 - OpenSys Technologies Sdn. Bhd. (“OpenSys Technologies”), a subsidiary of OpenSys (M) Berhad, proudly unveiled its first Direct Current (DC) charging station for electric vehicles (EV) in Penang. The charging station consists of a 40KW charger, called the Falcon ChargePro, is equipped with two charging guns and a multi-function payment terminal that accepts both contactless cards and QR codes.  

The installation of the Falcon ChargePro was officiated at UOB Malaysia Jalan Kelawei branch on 21 August 2024. The charging station is available for use exclusively for UOB Malaysia Privilege Banking (PV) customers from 9:00am to 5:30pm, Monday to Friday. Customers can enjoy a complimentary 30-minute charging period when they pay using their UOB PV Visa Infinite Credit and Debit Card. This installation reflects UOB Malaysia's commitment to supporting green transportation and prioritizing customer convenience.

Mr Luke Sebastian, CEO of OpenSys Technologies said, “As businesses and consumers alike increasingly embrace sustainability , the shift towards EVs has gained remarkable momentum. EVs, now ubiquitous on our roads, symbolize a transformative change towards a greener, more sustainable tomorrow. Recognizing the profound impact of this shift, OpenSys Technologies has strategically diversified into the renewable energy sector, aiming to play a pivotal role in Malaysia’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

“The government’s revised target of 1,500 DC chargers, up from the initial 1,000 units outlined in the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint (LCMB) in 2021, underscores the growing demand for infrastructure for green transportation. OpenSys Technologies is proud to work with UOB Malaysia to provide this facility for the convenience of the Bank’s PV customers.”

Through strategic partnerships and innovative technologies, OpenSys Technologies is at the forefront of providing green products and services that align with a sustainable future. The Falcon ChargePro EV charging solutions and the buySolar online marketplace are designed to support corporations in achieving their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals while fostering sustainability in their operations.

The Falcon ChargePro specializes in delivering green EV charging solutions and services to enterprises, particularly those with large EV fleets. This initiative is powered entirely by renewable electricity through the purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), which support renewable energy projects and reduce carbon emissions. RECs enable corporate clients and consumers to verify and claim that their charging stations are powered exclusively by renewable energy, empowering them to actively support their sustainability goals. 

What sets the Falcon ChargePro apart is its unparalleled ability to tailor solutions to meet the unique needs of corporate clients. The Falcon ChargePro ensures a hassle-free process for corporate clients, managing all aspects of EV charger installation, management systems, site services, maintenance, and support, among others. This comprehensive approach allows companies to focus on their core business while benefiting from a seamless charging infrastructure. It also features Falcon ChargePay, a multi-function contactless card and QR payment terminal solution, developed by OpenSys Technologies, and meticulously designed specifically for EV chargers. Additionally, the chargers can be customized to reflect a company’s branding, offering a unique opportunity for businesses to enhance their corporate identity.

In this ambitious journey towards a greener future, OpenSys Technologies and UOB Malaysia are not just providing EV chargers; they are pioneering a sustainable movement, turning challenges into milestones, and driving meaningful change for generations to come. 

Mini Siam Cafe มินิสยาม @ Lebuh Katz, Penang

Thai food lovers would be delighted to find another authentic Thai food available in Penang. Situated in a quiet corner on Lebuh Katz, Mini Siam Cafe มินิสยาม is located on the upper floor of 7 Siam Mini Market, at the corner in between Lebuh Katz and Jalan Gurdwara. 

Mini Siam Cafe มินิสยาม specialises in Northern Thai Cuisine, with Thai chefs cooking up delicious Thai Food in the kitchen and successfully attracted numerous diners to the restaurant. 

P.S: The cafe has very limited space so please book or go early to avoid long waiting.

If you are in for some Thai delights, you can do some Thai grocery shopping at 7 Siam Mini Market too.

Miang Kham MiniSiam - RM19.90

People who appreciate Thai Food will really enjoy a plate of good Miang Kham whether it comes to dining at Thai Restaurants. It is very simple way of eating this, just grab a piece of Betel Leaf and wrap all the ingredients givens then take a bite and enjoy it.

This is a traditional Thai dish that is favourite of many, some restaurants may also serve different condiments depends on what they are serving.

Stir Fry Thai Style Cashew Chicken - RM24.90

If you are into ordering some dishes to go with rice, this non-spicy dish would be great for yourself of kids if you can't tolerate spicy dishes. They use chicken thigh for this dish which is quite juicy and tender, may be a little bit too salty if you are not serving it with any rice or noodle.

Stir Fry Holy Basil Minced Pork - RM19.90

What's Thai food without a dish with Holy Thai Basil? Among all the Holy Basil dishes, the holy basil minced pork is one of the most popular dishes and I'll always order this dish whenever I dine in a Thai restaurant. I find their version here in Mini Siam is really spicy so maybe you can ask for less spicy version if your toleration towards spiciness is as weak as mine.

White Tomyum Seafood Soup - RM34.90

If you been to Thailand before, you will know that most of the Tomyum soup in Thailand are mostly clear Tomyum soup instead of the red version. This is what Thai people mostly enjoy in Thailand, however, the taste of the soup is still very flavour even though they look plain.

Stir Fry Gai Lan with Pork Belly - RM22.90

Mini Siam Phad Thai Shrimp - RM18.90

If you are not into getting dishes with rice, you can also order their rice or noodle dishes that are available even for lunch or dinner. Their Phad Thai are freshly fried upon order and the amount of shrimp given is so generous, fresh and big. They also have fried rice and other noodles available on the menu.

Mini Siam Cafe มินิสยาม

1st floor, 85, Lebuh Katz, 10300 George Town, Penang.

011-7225 8207

11:00am - 3:00pm | 5:00pm - 10:00pm

(Closed on Monday)

MARRIOTT Executive Apartments Debuts In Malaysia In the Captivating Island of Penang

 

Marriott Executive Apartments, Penang Joins Penang Marriott Hotel and Marriott Residences Penang At Iconic Sea-Front Gurney Drive Location

George Town, Penang, Malaysia – August 1, 2024 – Marriott Executive Apartments, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced its debut in Penang with the launch of the Marriott Executive Apartments Penang, a new beacon of premium comfort located in the prestigious Gurney Drive area. Nestled under the same roof as the Penang Marriott Hotel and Marriott Residences Penang, this new establishment offers Marriott Executive Apartments’ signature apartments with premiere hotel services for long stays and all the comforts of home. The elevated serviced apartment experience features all the comfort guests would expect from Marriott, with separate sleeping and living areas, gourmet kitchens, and features such as fitness and business centres, dedicated staff and security 24 hours a day.

“We are thrilled to expand our footprint in Malaysia with the opening of Marriott Executive Apartments Penang, a brand entry in the country,” said Ramesh Jackson, Area Vice President, Indonesia & Malaysia, Marriott International. “Our goal is to provide guests with a home away from home, offering the perfect balance of privacy, comfort, and hospitality. It is designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s discerning travelers, whether they are here for business, leisure, or a bit of both.”

A Strategic Hub in the Heart of the City

Situated amidst prominent attractions, Marriott Executive Apartments Penang offers scenic views of Gurney Bay, with easy access to a picturesque seafront park, ensuring a diverse and delightful stay along the Gurney coastline. Close by are upscale shopping havens of Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon Mall, and for foodies, local delights beckon at the renowned Gurney Drive Hawker Centre, just a stone's throw away.

It is also near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, inviting guests to immerse themselves in historical sites, vibrant street art, and cultural landmarks. Nature attractions such as the Penang National Park, Penang Butterfly Farm and Penang Hill are a short drive away.

Enriching Extended Accommodations

Marriott Executive Apartments Penang boasts 90 elegantly designed suites, featuring a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom options. Whether traveling alone or with family, guests have varius options to choose from to suit their needs. Each suite is thoughtfully furnished and equipped with a fully functional kitchen, complete with a clothes washer and dryer, alongside a spacious living room. Catering to the needs of business travelers, vacationers, and those seeking rejuvenation alike, guests will appreciate the blend of comfort and sophistication that defines the brand experience. Whether staying for a night or an extended period, the apartments provide a homely atmosphere with the perks of a hotel.

As guests venture beyond their elegant abodes, they enter a realm of unparalleled comfort. From the fully-equipped 24-hour fitness center to the tranquil outdoor infinity pool and a rejuvenating steam room, each amenity beckons relaxation and rejuvenation.

Vibrant Dining Destination

With direct access to a variety of dining experiences offered at Penang Marriott Hotel, guests are invited to indulge in culinary delights at on-site dining venues, complemented by round-the-clock room service for ultimate convenience. Kucina highlights the art of Italian gastronomy, Sago, serves a symphony of local and international flavors all day, Lava Java is the swift go-to destination for quick energy boosts and snacks, the Greatroom bar and lounge provides a stylish ambiance for memorable evenings with expertly crafted cocktails, and La Siena, a versatile multi-function space showcases an enticing selection of food and beverage offerings.

A Place for Occasions

Guests are also connected to various event spaces at Penang Marriott Hotel, including a stunning pillarless grand ballroom, and five flexible function rooms, all equipped with the latest technology and customizable setups to accommodate a variety of events.

“We are excited to introduce the first Marriott Executive Apartments in Malaysia, and bring this new and unique offering to Penang, providing travelers with a convenient and welcoming accommodation option in the heart of Gurney Drive”, said Subash Basrur, the Complex General Manager of Penang Marriott Hotel, Marriott Executive Apartments Penang and Marriott Residences Penang. “Whether for business or leisure, Marriott Executive Apartments Penang's curated offerings ensure a harmonious blend of indulgence, relaxation, and invigoration for a promising stay and we look forward to welcoming guests with heartfelt service, culinary delights, and wellness amenities that create lasting memories.”

With long-term rates and Marriott Bonvoy affiliation, the Marriott Executive Apartments Penang offers an unmatched hospitality experience, where every moment is curated to perfection and every stay is unforgettable.

Find out more about Marriott Executive Apartments from below:

Official Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/pener-marriott-executive-apartments-penang/overview/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meapenang/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarriottExecutiveApartmentsPenang

About Marriott Executive Apartments®

With nearly 35 properties in over 15 countries and territories, Marriott Executive Apartments® offer an elevated serviced apartment experience, designed to meet the corporate traveler’s long stay lodging needs. These elegant studios, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments are located in the heart of business, shopping, and entertainment districts. They offer all the comfort guests would expect from Marriott, with separate sleeping, living, and working areas, gourmet kitchens, and features such as fitness and business centers, housekeeping and dedicated staff and security 24 hours a day. Most Marriott Executive Apartments can be found in gateway cities of emerging economies, primarily in the Middle East and Africa, Europe, South America, and Asia. Members of the Marriott Bonvoy® global travel program can earn points on their stay at Marriott Executive Apartments, redeemable across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of extraordinary hotel brands. 

Komorebi Dining Penang @ Ropewalk Piazza, Penang

If you are a fan of Omakase dining and always bored of the same old place you had in Penang, check out this few months old Omakase restaurant in Penang called Komorebi Dining and it is also one of the latest addition to Ropewalk Piazza, a place that almost forgotten by many. 

Komorebi Dining sourced most of their raw ingredients from Japan. With freshly flown seasonal ingredients from Japan twice a week, their menu will feature seasonal dishes available depending on the seasons of Japan. 

All the menu will be crafted based on what are the fresh ingredients available on the day. As what Omakase means - I leave the details up to you, you don't have to worry about what the menu is, just let the chef knows what to avoid or any food allergies you have and then the rest is up to them. However if you are someone who is not comfortable with sashimi then Omakase is definitely not suitable for you. 

Along Ropewalk Piazza you can find this humble restaurant hiding in the center among all other shops. The restaurant was designed by the owner from scratch, a very challenging process as they were away in Singapore for over 10 years and wasn't familiar with local suppliers and vendor, hence taking a lot of time to perfect the renovation. 

When you step into the restaurant, you will be welcomed to your seat arranged for you, and then you will be presented with menu of the day and your name printed to address you personally. Making you feel respected even though it is just a dining. 

向付 Sakizuke

Monaka | Nara Zuke | Myoga | Ankimo | Kinome Leaf

We were welcomed with something unique and nothing I've ever had before. Ankimo, a Japanese dish made with liver of Monkfish. Unlike pate, this one is much smoother and soft, taste not as strong as pate too, even people who don't take intestine also able to accept the taste of it, and the way they served it in Monaka paired with Nara Zuke, Myoga and Kinome Leaf making it much more acceptable and refreshing too. 

前菜 Zensai

 Hotate | Uni | Yaki Nasu | Urui | Irizake Jelly

As one of the closely related with Japan suppliers. The chef is able to import giant sized Hotato directly from Japan so that they are able to satisfy diner's craving for fresh scallops. They are also very generous with the Uni serving on the plate. This dish is an appetiser that features fresh ingredients together with seasonal vegetable that is available, adding Urui that gives us the taste of Spring and Irizake Jelly which made the dish refreshing.

御碗 Owan

Awabi | Takenoko

On the soup dish we were served with Awabi & Takenoko(abalone and bamboo shoot) soup with seaweed. As we all know, Sakura is the symbol of Spring season, however when it comes to taste of spring, it will definitely be Takenoko(freshly harvested bamboo shoot) that is tender and crisp able to represent the season. This soup is thick and flavorful, perfect to warm our stomach before we go for more raw sashimi.

八寸 Seasonal Gift's

Buri | Aori Ika | Yari Ika | Tako & Komochi Kumbu

Perhaps you can consider this dish a mix & match of all greatness. Instead of serving each of them slowly, Komorebi prepared all of them Sashimi course and serve everything in one shot so you don't have to waste time waiting for serving. Also, you will be taught with which one to start first and usually it is the mild flavours and to stronger flavour dishes.

In this case we started with raw Aori Ika(bigfin reef squid) and Uni that is lightly flavoured with soy sauce and wasabi, then to Buri, Tako and Komochi Kumbu. There's a unique dish hiding in there which is the 玉子 Gyoku(Sweet Omelette) that has to slowly cooked for 3 hours to get the perfect soft and fluffy omelette.

煮物 Mountain & Sea

Kegani | Uni | Maitake Mushroom

Next we have a generous bite of Uni served on top of Kegani(Horsehair crab) where they have already removed all the meat to create this special dish. It is a good combination of the land and sea where the flavourful broth complements the dish so well. It is not just the crab that is delicious but the creamy Uni is also the one that perfected this dish.

烧物 Yaki

Unagi | Cauliflower

I'm always a fan for grilled unagi(eel) and what surprised me here is the size of the Unagi they served. The chef told me they supplied directly from Japan and the supplier have a special network with them hence they always get the best and biggest supply of fresh Eel from Japan.

The freshly grilled Unagi was one of the best I've ever had, where they maintain teh soft meat while the outer layer is totally crispy. It was so juicy and thick, paired with Cauliflower puree and baked cauliflower. 

土锅 Donabe

Chirime | Ikura | Nanohana | Sakura Ebi

Every spoonful is a fantasy with the Ikura(salmon roe) and some crispiness from Sakura Ebi. This rice dish served in pot will make sure you are really full from the omakase meal after savouring so many courses. You can enjoy more of it if one bowl is not enough. 
The rice is freshly cooked and the chef will mix all the ingredients infront of diners so you can watch the process of making this dish. The light seasoning made this rice dish more flavourful too.

甘味 Sweet

Warabi Mochi | Seasonal Fruits

For dessert we had some freshly made Warabi Mochi, a softer version of Mochi which melts directly in our mouth and covered in kinako. Kuromitsu syrup was also added to put a little sweet ending to this mochi.

For a sweet ending, we were served with this premium orange called Setoka Orange, which is the Japanese Mandarin known as Mikan. If we know the Japanese culture, we would know that fruits are consider very premium products in Japan. Some could be up to hundreds to thousands. 
This premium orange served was so sweet and unlike any oranges I've ever had, it was totally different from the mandarin oranges we had during Chinese New Year. This one is juicy and really sweet and fragrant. 

Omakase dining is no longer something rare in Penang but it is great to try more options available especially this one that flew premium ingredients from Japan every week. Making only the best cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients from Japan, Komorebi Dining is one of its kind. The personalised menu is also to make sure they recognise all their customers and also making sure that they can always give you something new to try if you are a repeat customer. 

Nevertheless, Komorebi Dining did surprised me with great food and comfortable dining experience. Will definitely be back.

Komorebi Dining Penang @ Ropewalk Piazza
138, Jalan Pintal Tali, 10100 George Town, Penang.

Contact no: 6012-858 1138

Tuesday - Thursday: 6:30pm - 10:00pm

Friday - Sunday: 12:30pm - 2:30pm | 6:30pm - 10:00pm

(Closed on Monday)

GPS: 5.4155095,100.3324666

Kampung Nights Ramadan Buffet @ Sarkies, Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang

Break fast doesn't have to be so traditional all the time. With sumptuous buffets available at so many hotels, you can enjoy big feast with so many choices available at the buffet spread. 
This year at Sarkies, Eastern & Oriental Hotel, it is still one of the widest buffet spreads you can find in Penang. Offering traditional Malay cuisine, international favourites as well as vast varieties of local delights, there will be something for everybody for sure.

You can always start your feast with some pasembur or kerabu available on the spread. Making your own pasembur is just as easy as making salads here where you can choose all your favourite ingredients to go with your meal.

Choices of cheese & assorted sushi, freshly prepared by chef.
Here you can savour as much Unagi as you want.

For starters, you can also have some of the cold platters available like mixed salads and all. 
However, the most attractive to me are still these delicious and juicy seafood cold cuts, oysters and all the seafood on ice.

If you think that raw food or cold food are not your thing. Then you will definitely enjoy some hot soup available on the spread. Be it western or Chinese or Malay, you can enjoy the creamy mushroom soup, fish maw soup or Malay chicken soup.

At the grilling station, you can enjoy some grilled lamb, beef and others that cook on the spot.

At the hot dish section, you can expect many traditional Malay dishes available as this is Malay themed buffet but also mix & match with some international delights. 
Feast on some tender beef rendang or Kurma Kambing available on the feast, best paired with some nasi kunyit available too.

What surprised me was they have a unique dish which was Sambal Sotong cooked with Petai, unique and definitely Petai lover's heaven.

Ayam Masak Kicap, Acar Buah, Nasi Goreng Kampung, or even Oxtail Masak Merah are all available on the spread.

Fan of barbeque food? Try some of the popular grilled items from the hot wok station. 

They have grilled prawns, salmon, and many more. Served with over 10 types of sauces.

Roast Beef and Roast Lamb is a must in the E&O Buffet spread, they are always tender and juicy.

you can always ask for more if you are not having enough of it.

Some fried food available and Nyonya Steamed Fish.

One of the highlights of the night must be these delicious Curry Salmon Head. Totally something that you cant find elsewhere. They are specialised in this dish and really something that will make you miss it. You will never thought that Salmon could go so well with curry because we always thought that it is only Salmon sashimi or grilled salmon or smoked salmon.

Roast Duck of E&O, definitely a must.

"Pak Lah Pasembur"

Pick whatever you want and let them mix it for you, top it up with chopped cucumber, turnips, crushed peanuts and pasembur sauce, then mix it all together and enjoy it. 

What's buka puasa without a nicely perfectly grilled lamb? 
You can enjyo their tender grilled lamb and choose which part you want. Let the chef know and he will cut it down for you on the spot. Best go with some black pepper sauce and mint sauce.

All kind of cakes and desserts available

Not forget to blend in with varieties of kuih-muih, and popular desserts like kunafa, kurma, baklava and many more. They also have ice kacang, chendol, ice cream and many more on the dessert section.

If you are a fan of Ramadan buffet. You definitely need to put Sarkies @ E&O into one of your considerations. The spread here is amazingly wide selections and sumptuous. 
On the first and second day of Hari Raya, Selera Kampung Buffet Lunch is also available for you to enjoy or have gathering with your family and friends.

If you are looking for some gifts to present to your Muslim friends, you can also consider their Ramadhan Goodies for takeaway so you can order and grab them for your friends.

For buffet bookings, you may contact +604-2222151 or email fbcentral.resv@eohotels.com to make bookings or order the Raya Goodies.