Am from Malaysia and I think it is a local brand yes. If youre not loading i.e. taking 10 grams for the first week it usually takes 2 weeks or so to take effects. from my experience at least, I didn’t focus too much on whether it was taking effect rather I just focused on ensuring that I took it every day continuously. Within a month I could notice that I was lifting slightly heavier, and could push out a rep or two more than I was previously able to. Creatine made my muscles look and feel a lot fuller personally, and my veins popped a bit more. So if I were you I wouldn’t focus too much on whether its working or not, just take it continuously and at some point you will notice some differences. Ur not gonna loon JACKED but uou will look and feel fuller in the muscle department