A publication of Penang Institute, Penang Monthly is the voice of Penang and an inspiring read for the curious Malaysian. Publishing articles concerning the well-being and good folks of Penang.
The kebaya holds deep cultural significance for women and communities across Southeast Asia, symbolising refinement, femininity, tradition, cultural heritage, women’s empowerment and identity.
What is it about our batik, Nyonya kebaya and baju kurung that captures the interest of fashion enthusiasts in Japan? In this article, Penang Monthly explores how Japanese and Malaysian textiles overlapped in history.
Turn yourself into a legitimate business and you’ll start seeing music not just as a creative outlet, but a business operation. You’d be surprised at how effective you (and your bandmates) can become when you start treating it that way.
This collection of ikat textiles spans the Nusantara region, with different tribal cultures and histories, from the lush rainforests of Sarawak to the stunning, exotic islands east of Bali in Indonesia.
Mangrove-based dyes have a long history across the world. Records point to their use from South America, India, Okinawa and Indonesia to Sabah by the Bajau and the Iranun ethnic groups; the practice was once widespread.
Tsue Ta Tee (崔大地) was one of the prominent calligraphers active in Penang and the region in the 1950s and ‘60s, who helped to leave this important legacy on Penang’s cityscape.
Most artisans I’ve met recognise that adaptation is necessary to keep these traditions alive. But there are also those who uphold a reverence for keeping things “pure”.
The roots of cindai can be traced back to the weft ikat technique introduced to the Malay world by Indian and Arab traders in the 14th or 15th century.