July 2026

Discover Penang’s living heritage in this month’s issue: from the revival of historic clan houses and district associations to new voices in the arts, community, and cultural preservation. Explore how tradition meets modernity as Penang’s diverse communities adapt, innovate, and celebrate their unique identity.

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A publication of Penang Institute, Penang Monthly is the voice of Penang - an inspiring read for the curious Malaysian, featuring stories about the people, ideas, and issues shaping the state's well-being. Sign up for a free account to enjoy unlimited access to all our articles.

The Deep Cultural Significance of Hindu Ornaments and Jewellery

5 min read

In Indian culture, gold symbolises prosperity as well as long-term commitment, making it the preferred choice of jewellery for weddings. Gold is also associated with the Hindu goddess Lakshmi and the auspicious days dedicated to the goddess.

by Priyanka Bansal

Being Funny Gets Serious in Malaysia

9 min read

MOVE OVER, Marie Kondo. In the post-pandemic era, it is the stand-up comedy shows (not the art of tidying up) that have become celebrated across Malaysia. Rizal...

by Rachel Yeoh

Cameron Highlands: The Making of Malaysia’s Largest Hill Station

7 min read

IN 1884, the British administration in Malaya became interested in developing a hill station in the Titiwangsa mountain range. Sir William Cameron, a government...

by Enzo Sim

Love Across Borders: Celebrating Multiracial Families

4 min read

“ FOR SO MANY YEARS, I just wanted to fit in. At one point, I wanted to have blue eyes and blonde hair, and wished my hair wasn’t so thick, dark and curly. My f...

by Kristina Khoo-Rhodes

The Dying Art of Nyonya Kebaya

8 min read

THE KEBAYA—a traditional blouse worn by women in Southeast Asia— has been jointly nominated in April 2023 by Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and Thailand...

by Peter Soh

Silver Chariot Procession

3 min read

First published by Pulau Pinang Magazine, a celebrated bi-monthly magazine that covered the culture, history, traditions and lifestyle of Penang. Edited by Khoo...

by Khoo Salma Nasution

Khoo Salma Nasution

Halal—A Promising Industry for Penang that Needs Some Strategic Pushing

4 min read

HALAL, AN ARABIC term meaning “permissible” or “lawful”, encompasses various aspects of Muslim life, including food, safety, animal welfare, social justice and...

by Dr. Rahida Aini

An Outcome-Based Budget in Line With Penang2030

5 min read

THE 2024 PENANG STATE BUDGET, presented by the Chief Minister in November 2023, amounts to RM1.42bil, RM1.05bil of which are allocated for operating expenses an...

by Ong Wooi Leng

An Award-winning Calligrapher Continues to Inspire with Ink and Harmony

3 min read

THE FOUR TREASURES OF THE STUDY—brush, ink, paper and inkstone—are not just essential tools in Chinese brush paintings and calligraphy; they embody the scholar’...

by Iylia De Silva

Year in Review: Penang Key Economic Statistics

1 min read

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by Doris Liew

Optimism Permeates Penang’s Economic Ecosystems

10 min read

PENANG’S ECONOMY IS influenced by diverse elements, such as the global economic situation and its industrial foundation. The fifth largest economy among Malaysi...

by Doris Liew

On the Proposed Progressive Wage Model in Malaysia

5 min read

FOR YEARS, Malaysia has implemented a minimum wage policy. While this policy has undoubtedly provided some relief, rising costs of living have often outpaced wa...

by Azmil Akil

Azmil Akil

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