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.

486 posts

A Tree to Call Our Own: The Pinang

3 min read

Once abundant, the pinang tree is central to Penang’s identity—deeply rooted in trade, culture and tradition, from betel chewing rituals to the state’s very name and emblem.

by Penang Monthly

“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

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

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

Studying others and staying unique

11 min read

Does Penang have what it takes to uphold its World Heritage status?

by Penang Monthly

Reinvention in progress

3 min read

The iconic clan jetties are a staple of Penang's history, but can they sustain themselves in modern times?

by Penang Monthly

The role of think tanks is changing

4 min read

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng speaks about the launch of the new version of the Penang Economic Monthly.

by Penang Monthly

Meeting a legend that grows and grows

12 min read

Champions don't grow on trees, especially champions like Nicol David, who has been world No.1 in women's squash since August 2006. Ooi Kee Beng tries to find out what makes her tick, and tick so consistently and impressively.

by Penang Monthly

Parenting Penang's pride

17 min read

There is a mystery about world champions that stems from the inability of common folk to imagine how otherwise normal persons can get to be so special and successful in what they do.

by Penang Monthly

Penang blueprint

2 min read

THE MALAYSIAN ECONOMY is at a crossroads; it has stopped being a high growth economy and is no longer a low-cost centre. Furthermore, the global economy is a very different creature compared to what it was just two years ago, before the financial crisis shook the world.

by Penang Monthly

Penang outlook forum 2010

1 min read

The Penang Outlook Forum provides a platform for the assessment of Penang’s past achievements, present capabilities and future growth potential. This year’s focus will be on “Penang in Asia” and the forum will be held at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS), Singapore.

by Penang Monthly