World Express recently held a company retreat in Penang from July 5 to 7, 2024. The team flew from Singapore and arrived in Penang, where we were joined by members from the World Express Malaysia team – namely Executive Director, Cherry Lee, Associate General Manager, Melissa Chow and Operations Manager, Su-Ann Kang – whose warm hospitality and insider knowledge of Malaysia’s cultural scene made the retreat all the more enjoyable and insightful.

Our adventure kicked off with a delightful lunch at the local establishment, New World Park Food City, renowned for its authentic Penang cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, boasting over 80 years of history. In the afternoon, the team embarked on a tour of Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, guided by the vibrant and enthusiastic Mr. Yap. The team admired the colonial-era buildings, charming street art murals, and the bustling streets of Little India and Chinatown. The tour also included a visit to The Clan Jetty, a historic network of houses built on stilts by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century. In the evening, dinner was at the Michelin-starred Aunty Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery, where the team indulged in authentic Peranakan dishes such as Curry Kapitan and Nasi Ulam. The highlight of the evening was the surprise appearance of Aunty Gaik Lean herself, who graciously posed for a group photo with us.

Day two began with a scenic tour of Penang Hill, where the team ascended via a funicular train to enjoy panoramic views of Georgetown. We explored The Habitat, a stunning 130-million-year- old rainforest reserve showcasing Penang’s lush greenery and rich biodiversity, featuring a variety of flora and fauna, and paved trails made from permeable concrete that absorbs rainwater. After a day of exploration, the team gathered for a cocktail and dinner at Beton Dining, featuring a gourmet menu with farm-to-table dishes such as Pan Seared Norwegian Trout and Black Angus Striploin. The evening also included a lucky draw, which was met with much excitement and cheer.

Wrapping up on day three, many of us enjoyed a local breakfast before returning to Singapore. We left with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for our Malaysian counterparts’ rich culture, history, and natural beauty in Penang. We look forward to our next retreat and to host our Malaysian team in Singapore next.