US-Imposed Tariffs May Advance ASEAN Economic Integration
5 min read
Since 5 April, every Malaysian product shipped to the US is stamped with at least a 10% duty; and from 9 April, a 24% rate, with some exemptions.
November 2025
This November, Penang Monthly explores language, place and memory. As GTLF returns, we highlight Penang’s multilingual streets and the dialects that keep local history alive.
Farms of the Future Are Emerging from Penang
5 min read
Kebun Kita(R), launched in 2020 at the Penang Digital Library, is Penang’s first self-sustaining urban farm, courtesy of the innovative technology provided by Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI).
Art As An Inclusive Force
5 min read
Penang artist Sumay Cheah blends aesthetics with community impact. With 24 installations since 2017, her immersive works have won awards like the Singapore Good Design and Taiwan’s Golden Pin Design Award.
Seaweed as a Pillar for Aquaculture and Food Security
6 min read
Although 44% of Malaysia’s aquaculture output in terms of tonnage is seaweed,it doesn’t seem like farmed seaweed made it in our dishes—but let’s look at the edible weeds from the sea.
The Joyous Opportunity for Interest
4 min read
Ooi Kee Beng’s living bookshelf reveals the many lives he has touched and aspired to—historian, writer, artist—each spine a testament to his enduring curiosity and spirit.
Ooi Kee Beng at ISEAS: Ideas, Innovation and Inspiration
3 min read
Ooi Kee Beng spent over a decade at ISEAS, where his leadership, prolific academic work, and dedication to research left a lasting impact on the Institute and the region's scholarship.
Tribute to Prof. Dato' Dr. Zulfigar Yasin: The Guiding Light That Keeps Glowing
5 min read
On 3 February 2025, we we bid farewell to Zulfigar Yasin, aka Prof. Zul. A mentor and friend, his brilliance and grace left a lasting impact on science, CEMACS, and all who knew him.
When The Waters Recede: Walking to Batu Ferringhi Isle
6 min read
Often called Lover’s Isle by locals, Batu Ferringhi—or Foreigner’s Rock—is the very isle that lent its name to the long stretch of coastline beside it, now one of Penang’s tourist attractions.
Aquaculture Can Ensure Food Security For Penang
5 min read
In 2017, Penang Institute did a study on the agriculture sector. According to an executive summary by Negin Vaghefi, aquaculture has become increasingly important due to rising population and income driving demand for fish.
Do You Have an Emergency Bag Packed?
2 min read
We asked our subscribers and social media followers if they have an emergency bag packed at home and here are the results.
Securing a Future for Malaysia's Paddy Farming
5 min read
Malaysian paddy farming is confronted by a myriad of issues endangering its endurance and feasibility, notably in Penang, where city growth and financial progress have altered the farming terrain.
Merdeka For Whom? Ooi Kee Beng Rethinks Malaysia's Nationhood
4 min read
Ooi Kee Beng, a prolific writer and academic, continues to shape discourse through Penang Monthly, Penang Institute, and his regular column in The Edge.
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