Monthly Archives: November 2023

Art, George Town, Heritage, Style, Travel

Sparking joy in sketches … the Penang way

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A decade ago, Penang-born Tiffany Choong began sketching daily in her art journal, as part of her Happiness Project.

The self-taught artist discovered the joys of sketching through her global travels, which in turn it is said, gives her “a sense of purpose that fuels her soul.”

Just in time for Christmas, Tiffany presents EVERYDAY PENANG The Art of Joy.

She delivers playful pen and ink sketches, having drawn inspiration from simple objects she takes in daily.

Each sketch takes the reader not only into the “inner Penang” through the eyes of the artist, but is also paired with little pick-me-up quotes and words of wisdom along the way.

The visual treats found on every page of the compact book, is one which will spark joy with Penang residents and Penangites-at-heart, thanks to boutique publisher Clarity Publishing, who has connected Tiffany’s hometown and heritage with themes of love, loss and identity, including traditions and rituals.

As we wind up 2023 with an attitude of gratitude, the book serves as a gentle and colourful reminder to ourselves that “the simple joys of life will always shine through, if we let them.”

Copies of the book are available via https://www.clarity8.com/shopshop/en/gift-book/62-everyday-penang-the-art-of-joy.html

(All images courtesy of Clarity Publishing Sdn Bhd)

George Town

Requiescat In Pace

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Rest in peace, a phrase from the Latin requiescat in pace, is sometimes used in traditional Christian services and prayers, such as in the Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican, and Methodist denominations to wish the soul of a decedent eternal rest and peace (Wikipedia)

Around the world on Nov 2, Christians observe All Souls’ Day, also known as the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed and the Day of the Dead.

This is a dedicated day of prayer and remembrance for the souls of those who have died.

A wreath at the Kelawai Road Catholic Cemetery in Penang to commemorate All Souls’ Day

If there is one thing which sets the Kelawai Road Catholic Cemetery in Penang on All Souls’ Day apart from others, it is the care and love displayed to honour and remember their dead.

Saying it with flowers

Step into this private cemetery owned and managed by the Church of the Immaculate Conception Penang, and the level of order, cleanliness and dignity accorded to the dead stand out.

Not a single grave or columbarium niche is forgotten or overlooked, especially on All Souls’ Day.

On normal days, a smiling Hafiz tends to the grounds with well-clipped lawns and tidy paths.

Rev Fr Simon Labrooy and Hafiz

Thanks also to a band of selfless and amazing parishioners, flowers and candles are arranged for placement to honour the dead ahead of Nov 2.

Rest in peace & glory
Parish priest Monsignor Jude Miranda blesses the flower-filled and candlelit columbarium niches
A lot of hard work goes behind the scenes in preparing bunches of flowers for the graves & niches
Flowers for the dearly departed
Fresh flowers and tea lights adorn the niche of a beloved parent & husband

There were many emotional moments today at the cemetery when loved ones were welcomed to a sea of flowers and flickering tea lights at the final resting place of their family members and friends.

The gentle recitation of the rosary as the blessing was under way, lent comfort and a sense of peace to the living.

We each are aware that our days on earth come with an expiration date. But isnt it nice to know that even in death, we will never walk alone in some communities?

Gone but never forgotten