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.

The day BN won the election but lost the contest

9 min read

The evening began optimistically enough. By 7pm, my team members and I were gathered at the nomination centre, where the final votes were going to be tallied up...

by Zairil Khir Johari

A reading room goes fourth to multiply

4 min read

Walking up a narrow wooden staircase, each step I took creaked with the sound of years of wear. At the landing, I was greeted by the smell of incense and the si...

by Julia Tan

Gun Killing on the Rise

7 min read

Businessman Tan Kok Soon was having dinner with his wife and two sons in a restaurant in the Oakland Commercial Centre in Seremban on April 14 when a gunman wearing a full-faced helmet walked up to their table and fired three shots into his back.

by Nicholas Chan

Penang's Growth Cries Out For More Local Councils

4 min read

It has been 37 years since the enactment of the Local Government Act 1976 which, among other things, enabled state governments to undertake major restructuring of their local authorities.

by Datuk Dr. Goh Ban Lee

Malaysian democracy is not lost

3 min read

The dust had barely settled from Malaysia’s tumultuous General Election in May when the country found itself gearing up again for another poll. A by-elect...

by Carolyn Hong

Catching the East Asian wind

27 min read

East Asia has emerged from the recent financial crisis relatively unscathed. Fundamentals in the region are strong, and the OECD forecasts that by 2030, the s...

by Penang Monthly

Penang News

2 min read

DOSH: Negligence cause of Second Penang Bridge ramp collapseThe Department of Safety and Health (DOSH) confirmed that the Second Penang Bridge ramp collapsed...

by Penang Monthly

A Nordic Experience

3 min read

Situated in sunny Straits Quay in Penang, that northern European region covering Scandinavia, Finland and Iceland was the last thing that came to mind in the warm tropical setting.

by Monica Tindall

Monica Tindall

Pa Lungan is a balm for the soul

4 min read

Steeped in history and nature, Pa Lungan in Sarawak is a perfect escape from crazed civilization.

by Carolyn Hong

Culture in the centre: Arts-ED makes full use of our heritage

6 min read

Experiential and hands-on learning on a real site.Cultural mapping has become the new mantra used by dedicated groups in engaging and interacting with spe...

by Ooi Kok Chuen

A chat with a Master

7 min read

Cinematographer Christopher Doyle—known for In the Mood for Love and Chungking Express—reflects on his creative process, vivid visuals, and iconic collaborations with Wong Kar Wai in this insightful post-masterclass chat.

by Amanda Yeoh

Tourism and technology

2 min read

The first ever conference on travel technology and hospitality automation launches this November.On November 21 and 22, 2013, Kuching will pla...

by Penang Monthly

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