US Independence Day Gala Dinner 2017 at Hotel Equatorial Penang


It was truly a night of glam during the recent US Independence Day Gala Dinner 2017 held at the Grand Ballroom of Hotel Equatorial Penang. Approximately 400 distinguished guests were present dressed up to the nines, looking stylish and elegant; well including me too hehe :)

The American Malaysia Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) in collaboration with its organising committees - First Solar, Jabil, Hotel Equatorial Penang, Plexus, Venessa Diamonds and Smart Modular Technologies turned the night into such a memorable delightful event. This was the 3rd year the event has been celebrated in Penang.

The event was held in celebration with  America's 241st Independence Day of Unites States of America and is fully supported by the U.S. Embassy in demonstrating the growing strenght of the bilateral relationship between Malaysia and the United States.

The event signifies the strong ties between Malaysia and the United States. 2017 also marks the 60th year of the US-Malaysia bilateral trade. I was very much privileged to be among the guest for that night and it was such an honour to be attending such prestigious event. 



Guests were seen mingling around, enjoying the all-American favourite bites and drinks prepared at the cocktail reception and having lots of fun taking photos by the backdrop and at the photobooth.


Favourites such as donuts, hot dogs, friend chicken as well as pop corn were served.







It wasn't long before the doors were open for guests to enter.





The VIP table set-up was gorgeous. 



Everything was simply stunning.


The event started off with the Opening Speech by the Organising Chairman.


The event was graced by the presence of Her Excellency Kamala Skirin Lakhdhir, The U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia and Deputy Chief Minister 1 of Penang, YB Dato' Abdul Rashid Masnon. 


Her Excellency Kamala Skirin Lakhdhir, The U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia giving her speech to the guests.


The event was then followed by the speech from Deputy Chief Minister 1 of Penang, YB Dato' Abdul Rashid Masnon.


Guests were then served dinner while being entertained to popular oldies as well as new modern pop songs. 


First up was Amercan East-Coast inspired seared scallops with citrus quinoa, mixed herbs and roasted almonds, served with homemade Parker House, cloverleaf and butterflake rolls.


Wild forest mushroom soup with garlic croutons 


The Equatorial Surf & Turf
Roasted chicken breast and tiger prawns served with grilled green asparagus and American favourite Mac 'n' Cheese.


Grandmother Caramel Velvet Apple Pie served with Homemade vanilla ice cream and chocolate ganache.





It was more than just a celebration of Independence but also a celebration of giving for a good cause. 3 charity organizations namely, School For Mentally Retarded Children Dato Keramat, The Penang Ru Yi Home and AMCHAM CSR Fund were handed with financial aid.







The excitement and thrill climaxed when it came to the Auction time and Raffle Draws. Bidders were seen outbidding each other for their favourite items.

"Contemplation" By Madam hee Wee Eng (Calligraphy Art)
Written on gold dusted paper with visible specs of gold via close up.

The calligraphy characters carry the meaning of
"Observe everthing quietly to gain understanding and knowledge or insight"

Angel's Envy Rye (Whisky)
Founded by well-respected bourbon distiller Lincoln Henderson, this is a 6-7 years old 95% rye and 5% malted barley aged for up to 18 months in Caribbean XO Rum casks that served as Cognac

"Serenity" (Wool Painting)
Beautifully framed up, this is an authentic felt carpet from Iran, reflecting the serenity during autumn. The fine weave of wool, enhances the soft touch and elegance which can be hang on the wall as a painting.

Luxurious 2-hours Sunset Cruise by Vangohn Seafarer (Cruise Ride)
Set sail for a memorable moment while sunset cruising with wine and cheese. A perfect setting for your next event. Be it a wedding, party, corporate event or product launch. Accommodates up to 25 guests.


"Merly" by Venessa Diamonds (Jewellery Piece)
One of Venessa Diamond's classic and timeless design, the Tahitian black pear pendant is adorned with diamonds and white gold settings. Accompanying the pendant is an 18-carat Italian white gold necklace.


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While there were many lucky winners of the Raffles draw, below is the Top 3 lucky winners.

3. Mantel Clock by Royal Selangor Pewter (worth RM3900)


2. RM 3000 cash voucher redeemable for a cruise ride by Vangohh Seaferer.


1st Prize - "Celestial" by Venessa Diamonds (worth RM5000)
An exclusive & exquisite design, the South Sea While Pearl pendant, with white gold settings, encrusted with Diamonds. Together with the pendant is a 18 carat Italian white gold necklace, an elegant & classic design, suited for all occasions.


Congratulations to all winners :)

Let's look forward to many more years of amazing relationship between the 2 nations.

It was a remarkable night and many thanks to Hotel Equatorial Penang for hosting me.

For more information:
Hotel Equatorial Penang
1 Jalan Bukit Jambul,
Bayan Lepas, 
11900 Penang.
Tel : +604-732 7000
email: info@pen.equatorial.com

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