February 2026

Our latest issue explores how third places—from bookstores and gardens to KOMTAR—shape community life in Penang, while reflecting on sustainability, inclusion, and the island’s rich history.

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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.

"Better Penang": The First City App in Malaysia, A Vision in Action

5 min read

Penang has always been a close-knit community. The close physical proximity of the different urban centres with George Town serving as the hub means that both p...

by Steven Sim

Kumbabhishekam

2 min read

On June 29, the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Kovil Temple in the Penang Botanic Gardens was flooded with thousands of devotees from all over for the auspicious Kumbabhishekam ceremony.

by Teo Sue Ann

Developers of 18th Century Pinang

5 min read

Since the details are largely hearsay passed down by a son of Haji Brunie to Vaughan, caution should be exercised in accepting them as facts.The possession...

by Dato' Dr. Ooi Kee Beng

The George Town Festival 2012 – An Overwhelming Month

6 min read

For four weeks stretching between June and July, the streets of Penang became a living outdoor museum bursting with dance, drama, arts and music.Ostensibly...

by Ooi Kok Chuen

George Town: A Ghost Town of The Future?

5 min read

For now, it seems that only prosperity and wealth await George Town. But what are the long term implications of this change?

by Gabija Grusaite

Gabija Grusaite

What The Higgs Happened?

7 min read

What did we discover?The jury is still out! The measurements we have made have not yet achieved sufficient precision to say conclusively whether or not this i...

by Jeffrey Hardy Quah

The Guardian of The Hill

4 min read

Lee briefing visitors at the reopening of the bypaths.With its magnificent panoramic views and its cool climate, Penang Hill has always been a popular ret...

by Penang Monthly

Not Easy Housing Malaysians

7 min read

Prime Minister Najib Razak recently called for feedback in advance of the government’s unveiling of the National Budget 2013. The top of the wish list for...

by Penang Monthly

A Post-Industrial Future for Penang?

9 min read

The advent of the digital era, characterised by seamless and instantaneous transfer of information and unprecedented levels of global interconnectedness, has se...

by Zairil Khir Johari

At 55, Malaysians Should Take Charge of Their Own Fate

5 min read

At the end of this month, we’ll be celebrating the 55th anniversary of our independence. For the occasion, I’m prompted to think about where we ar...

by Penang Monthly

Wireless in George Town

4 min read

It may be the top man’s vision but it is people like Jeff Ooi who are pounding the pavement in order to fulfil the promise of free WiFi service for Penang...

by Penang Monthly

Shark Savers

6 min read

Shark conservation work is heavily based on science and empirical studies. And if we talk about sustainability, there is a plethora of evidence in proving and making that point.

by Eleanor Lopez

Eleanor Lopez

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