Returning power to the people
12 min read
MALAYSIA'S FEDERALISM - A GOOD THING GOING TO WASTEBy Francis HutchinsonAt a time when rising economic giants such as China and India are discovering the bene...
Gender Parity Still A Distant Dream
6 min read
The 3GS conference highlighted the persistent gender gap in Malaysia, where societal expectations and structural barriers hinder women’s progress. Key recommendations include implementing a 30% gender quota for leadership roles.
Making Little Changes Matter In Penang
4 min read
The Shared Services Centre in Penang offers high-end testing facilities, empowering small manufacturers and promoting economic growth. It reflects industry collaboration, government support, and bold innovation.
Recognising Penang’s Inherent Cosmopolitanism
3 min read
Penang, once a thriving regional hub, faces the challenge of overcoming insularity to tap into its rich cultural and economic heritage. Embracing its regional role can revitalise the state and foster growth.
A Short History of The Khoo Kongsi
4 min read
The Khoo Kongsi complex, a historical gem in Penang, symbolises the perseverance of the Khoo clan in preserving their heritage. From its origins in 1835 to restoration efforts, it remains a testament to multiculturalism.
Comparing The State Budgets of Penang and Selangor
7 min read
Penang and Selangor's 2011 budgets focus on financial management, transparency, and social welfare. Both states aim for sustainable growth and investment, highlighting governance and accountability in their plans.
Transforming Bus Stops To Transform City Living
6 min read
Transform bus stops into transit hubs to promote public transport. Integrating seating, shelter, and services, these hubs can become social spaces that enhance community engagement and support sustainable transport.
Let’s Do What’s Needed To Make Penang Clean And Green
5 min read
Penang's Cleaner Greener Initiative aims to create a sustainable, attractive city. The focus is on preserving open spaces, maintaining parks, and ensuring political will to protect green areas from misuse.
Saving Tanjung Tokong
9 min read
Kampung Tanjung Tokong, older than George Town, is Penang’s last coastal urban village—its 300-year-old living heritage now under threat from luxury development and a long battle over land rights.
An Old Chung Ling Boy Who Thought Big
5 min read
Penang-born entrepreneur Loke Gim Tay balances business success with a deep love for Chinese art and culture, championing Penang's heritage while supporting artists across borders.
The State of The Economy
10 min read
The 2011 Budget signals troubling reliance on private growth. Without economic decentralisation and public sector expansion, Malaysia risks stalling in the middle-income trap.
SERI seeks to offer policy alternatives
6 min read
There are think tanks, and there are think tanks. Penang’s own think tank, the Socio-Economic and Environmental Research Institute (SERI), is seeking to...