CREATIVE MARKETS HAVE been steadily gaining popularity in Penang, becoming crucial platforms for creative startups and businesses to showcase their products and build a customer base. Throughout the years, some of them—such as Hin Market at Hin Bus Depot—have evolved beyond simply being marketplaces; they have managed to foster an environment where people can connect and learn from one another.
The idea of having a Hin Market was conceived in 2015, a year after Hin Bus Depot opened its doors, as an art space within the once-abandoned Hin Company Bus Depot. While there were already markets at the time selling lifestyle products, the concept of a dedicated creative market had yet to firmly take root in Penang. Tan Shih Thoe, the visionary founder and owner of Hin Bus Depot, reached out to several vendors he knew and offered them space to peddle their products at Hin Bus Depot. The Hin Market proved to be a success, and quickly materialised into a weekly, signature activity at Hin Bus Depot.
This year marks its 10th anniversary.
