Penang Monthly

Penang Monthly, by Penang Institute, is the voice of Penang, offering insights on its people, politics, economy, culture, and society, with a focus on local and national issues for curious Malaysians.

835 posts

“It never starts with an idea. It starts with a feeling” — Yasmin Ahmad, 2009

3 min read

Tunku Datuk Dr Ismail Jewa, Yasmin Ahmad, and Datuk Brother Tiberius Lawrence Spitzig each shaped Malaysia through education, art, and compassion, leaving behind enduring legacies.

by Penang Monthly

Penang’s Way Forward

3 min read

After a record year in 2008, Penang faced sharp investment declines in 2009, but recovery efforts and new growth industries hint at a shift from sweatshop to smart shop.

by Penang Monthly

Is Fiscal Federalism the Answer?

3 min read

Localising parliamentary debate and resource allocation could better reflect regional needs, empower state legislators, and diversify Malaysia’s governance beyond a centralised system.

by Penang Monthly

We Are All Little Indian Boys

4 min read

In tribute to Yasmin Ahmad’s Little Indian Boy, Amir Muhammad reflects on Merdeka, memory, and what it means to grow up Malaysian with dignity and hope.

by Penang Monthly

A Day in the Life of a Tutor

5 min read

Connie Koay, a self-employed tutor in Penang, reflects on 35 years of tutoring. She highlights the challenges of maintaining discipline, balancing parents' expectations, and the changing role of tutors in modern education.

by Penang Monthly

Water Management: Selangor Can Borrow Buckets from Penang

7 min read

Selangor's water crisis highlights the failures of privatisation in Malaysia. Penang’s success in water management serves as a model, offering low tariffs and efficient services despite challenges in Selangor.

by Penang Monthly

Accommodating Heritage

5 min read

Angela Hijjas is transforming 15 terrace houses on Hutton Lane into a boutique hotel while advocating for stronger state support for cultural heritage, traditional trades, and innovative urban reuse.

by Penang Monthly

George Town as an Engine of Growth

5 min read

Penang has the assets to thrive, but to succeed, it needs vision and leadership. George Town must reinvent itself as an attractive place for investment, work, and family life to maintain its international status.

by Penang Monthly

Penang Finance:Strong Roots, Stunted Growth

13 min read

Penang faces economic struggles due to federal control over its finances, relying on federal funds for development. The state must seek greater self-reliance to overcome challenges and thrive independently.

by Penang Monthly

Repossessing the Future of Penang

4 min read

Penang once led Malaysia's progress but has since faced stagnation. To reclaim its future, Penang must focus on governance, economic reform, and human capital development, positioning itself as a global model.

by Penang Monthly

Giving federalism a future

5 min read

Universiti Sains Malaysia's funding in 2009 was RM9oo million. Penang's state budget was RM477 million.ALTHOUGH MALAYSIA officially practises federalism,...

by Penang Monthly

Regional power politics and the birth of Penang

4 min read

PENANG'S HISTORY is directly tied to that of Kedah, a sovereign — and the oldest — kingdom on the peninsula before its annexation by Siam in the 13t...

by Penang Monthly