Penang Monthly

Same Deal - by Azmi Hussin

🔗 Read our latest issue here: https://penangmonthly.com/issue/20393

Our pick-up points: https://penangmonthly.com/grab-your-copy

This month's theme is education.

We address the challenges Malaysia faces in its education system and explore ways to improve it, including the importance of quality financial education.

We also cover Islamic religious schools in Malaysia and how St. Xavier’s Institution (SXI)—the second-oldest school in the country—maintains high enrolment rates.

On a lighter note, we hike with Rexy to Bukit Langkap and showcase the beauty of the Pulau Tikus market in our photo essay, highlighting the hardworking families behind it.

All this and more in our latest issue.

🔗 Read here: https://penangmonthly.com/issue/20393

Our pick-up points: https://penangmonthly.com/grab-your-copy

Delve into the architectural history of Fort Cornwallis in Penang, where the use of local materials like granite and terracotta bricks has created a lasting legacy. Learn the meticulous restoration efforts that honour its historical significance.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/8mcgo1

Kopi Jackfruit Monkey" is a collection of artworks that reflect Nigel's daily life in George Town—the kopitiams he frequents, the lively markets, and the rhythm of everyday life near his studio.

The title is a playful nod to the local culture—“kopi” for the beloved coffee, “jackfruit” for the tropical abundance and “monkey” for the lively, untamed spirit of the place.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/blkff9

The magic of jīng jù lies with the performers, who shoulder the burden of evoking different spaces and landscapes using just their bodies—after all, the typical jīng jù stage features minimalistic sets and lighting.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/wy9g7m

Older adults often accept their decline in strength as inevitable, but strength training can combat age-related muscle loss and preserve mobility.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/hkdsxx

Swedish ambassador Joachim Bergström's "Jom Kita Bincang" initiative promotes sustainability, health and social issues through children’s literature, aiming to inspire creativity and diversity in Malaysia.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/f4wu1l

Explore how the rich tapestry of Penang's history is intricately woven into the stories of the heritage buildings that adorn the Esplanade, including Fort Cornwallis, the Town Hall, City Hall, Light Street, and the Clock Tower.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/22ol2b

Merafak sembah dan setinggi-tinggi ucapan tahniah sempena Pertabalan Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong Ke-17, Sultan Ibrahim pada 20 Julai 2024 bersamaan 14 Muharam 1446H.

Sembah takzim daripada warga Penang Institute dan Penang Monthly.

Daulat Tuanku!

Hari Narayanan, CEO of Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC), brings up to 40 years of combined experience in academia and industry to develop innovative solutions for Penang's challenges.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/ysmyfg

Like thousands of Malaysian women who gave birth abroad, Amelia cannot confer citizenship on her children born outside the country due to her gender.

Although recent amendments grant citizenship rights to children of Malaysian mothers and foreign fathers, this change is not retroactive.

Is this predicament truly just a "privileged person’s problem," as often perceived by their countrymen?

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/904li0

How can public housing designs be more appealing? One way is through the creative use of sustainable, locally sourced materials, which can enhance aesthetics with unique textures and forms while remaining cost-effective.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/17zj6p

The Sending-of-the-Royal-Ship ceremony lasted three days, setting a remarkable precedent for Penang. Guided by Taoist priests from Butterworth's Hean Chin Tua Temple and advised by Yong Chuan Tian Temple, the process involved ship construction, logistics, and ritual coordination.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/dsah40

The ongoing Fort Cornwallis conservation project will transform a lackluster site—recently labelled as the second "Most Boring Tourist Attraction in Southeast Asia"—into Penang’s premier landmark.

To elevate heritage management, state authorities must address disparities in planning and management standards between the UNESCO World Heritage Site and its surroundings.

(Sketch by Tan Cheng Keat.)

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/aqgsu0

Urban design and town planning play pivotal roles in creating vibrant, livable cities by integrating comprehensive plans—from public space management to innovative private developments—ensuring functional and aesthetically pleasing urban environments.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/59repc

Melbourne boasts pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, contrasting with Penang's disjointed footpaths and minimal shading, revealing the need for improvements to maximise its potential as a walkable city rich in cultural assets.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/aozvl2

Fortress Island - by Azmi Hussin

🔗 Read our latest issue here: https://penangmonthly.com/issue/20392

Our pick-up points: https://penangmonthly.com/grab-your-copy

This month's issue focuses on architecture.

We explore the revitalisation of George Town, Penang, through cultural heritage conservation following its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. We detail collaborative efforts, restoration projects, and future plans for sustainable development.

In an exclusive interview, Hari Narayanan, CEO of the Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC), shares his insights on issues plaguing Penang and Malaysia, and how PSDC aims to resolve them.

We also envision Penang as a pedestrian-friendly city and examine improvements for public housing.

All this and more in this issue.

🔗 Read it here: https://penangmonthly.com/issue/20392

📍 List of pick-up points here: https://penangmonthly.com/grab-your-copy

Penang Monthly interviews Adeeba Kamarulzaman, exploring her remarkable journey in infectious diseases and her passionate advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness and treatment.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/ahc5wv

Now approaching its 55th year, PDC continues to lead Penang’s growth, embodying its mission to meet stakeholders’ needs in line with the state’s aspirations.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/rsw1lg

In 1845, James Richardson Logan unearthed sea shells and sea mud beneath the paddy fields between the Prai and Juru rivers, revealing the land was once submerged under a shallow sea—a fact later verified by scientists.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/pwe6ou

In Malaysia, all NGOs must register with the Registrar of Societies Malaysia (ROS). As of 2021, Penang had 5,410 active NGOs, ranking it sixth nationwide in NGO numbers.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/0x7iwm

At LemmeLearn, hands-on vocational training empowers adults with autism, promoting self-expression and societal inclusivity through practical skills and education.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/9z8d1h

After years of dedicated service to the less fortunate, three Penang NGOs share their insights and experiences, highlighting their ongoing efforts and challenges.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/n4v3bc

Known for his compassion and generosity, Vaira, co-owner of The Garden Banana Leaf Restaurant, leverages his eatery to inspire and support the community, demonstrating how individual actions can make a difference.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/zto165

Human activities have led to unprecedented climate change, making 2023 the hottest year on record, with 2024 predicted to be hotter still. Effective legal actions are crucial to address this escalating crisis.

🔗 Read here:https://rb.gy/xnmriv

Mental health expert Synthia Surin reveals alarming facts: depression among Malaysians has risen, with Penang reporting the highest number of suicide-related calls among the states.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/egep9b

Tang's journey from history student to librarian at St. Nicholas’ Home showcases his determination, as he enhances lives by producing Braille materials and supporting other visually impaired individuals.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/i1w1mo

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), a growing global practice, has made its way to Malaysian soil, bringing with it a multitude of benefits, challenges and possibilities.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/czy6zl

Explore the trails of Bukit Susu, where the hike reveals rich history, stunning views, and the intriguing remnants of a 19th-century dwelling.

🔗 Read here: https://rb.gy/i4uhr5