EVENTS IN MAY
3 min read
COMEDYStand-up comedians Kavin Jay, Kuah Jenhan, Andrew Netto, Phoon Chi Ho, Rizal van Geyzal, and a new addition, their old friend Papi Zak, will be bringing t...
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.