A grand opening

TO serve the people in the northern region, Penang’s very own outlet mall, Design Village, recently opened its doors to the public.
Built by PE Land (Penang) Sdn Bhd and marketed by Savills Malaysia, it features fashion shops of both international and regional pedigree at discounted prices. This unique green village was completed in just two years and is poised to become a major tourism magnet as well as a catalyst for economic growth in Bandar Cassia.
The grand launch was officiated by Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng amidst a buoyant crowd made up of esteemed guests and media members.
Lim conveyed his confidence that Design Village will promote tourism not just in Penang, but also for the Seberang Perai and the Northern Region.
James Ling , managing director of PE Land (Penang) Sdn Bhd, agreed as much when he said outlet malls which are typically located in greenfield areas such as Batu Kawan will accelerate business activities, stimulate the local economy, and help turn Bandar Cassia into a vibrant community.
This is in line with the state government’s plan to make Batu Kawan — which has been renamed Bandar Cassia — into the new Penang. Easily accessible from the island and mainland via a virtual ring road formed by the two bridges and the NorthSouth Highway, it’ll help boost the future growth of the island state.
Joanna Ling, executive director of PE Land (Penang) Sdn Bhd, remarked too that ‘new Penangites’ are also seeking modern malls and shopping experience; and in Design Village, they’ll find just that.
It is designed attractively with the 150 shops nestling cosily among lush tropical gardens, while captivating bold anchor stores called “jewel boxes” become a star attraction. Moreover, the Central Plaza is equipped with water features and is placed strategically in the heart of activities for shoppers to convene.
“The single-storey, open-air mall will feature cool weather-sheltered walkways offering a mix of international and homegrown brands to provide the best value and the ultimate shopping experience.”
Aimed at middle-income shoppers and above, Design Village will provide shoppers with 2,500 parking bays, rest space, children’s play areas, safety wristlet for kids, safety escorts for female shoppers and F&B outlets for the comfort of all visitors.
Managing Director of Savills Malaysia, Allan Soo, added that with over 150 stores planned in the 400,000 sq ft outlet mall, shoppers will be spoilt for choices especially when new things are on offer for up to 70% discount every day, making it an almost year-round sale.
In conjunction with Christmas, a fun fair will be held throughout December along with weekend-themed performances, a carousel and a kiddies playground. Some of the other line-ups are A Little Clown With A Great Big Heart, colouring contest, Shine A Little Star concert as well as the Penang Christmas Run on Christmas day itself.
Design Village will also have an ongoing online promotion offering attractive prizes on its digital platform and social media accounts.