October 2025

This October, Penang Monthly explores death rituals across Malaysia. From Muslim burials to Taoist and Hindu traditions, we reflect on how communities honour the departed with dignity.

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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.

Imaginings of Nationhood: on “Negaraku”, a Collector’s Show by Bingley Sim and Ima Nurbinsha

6 min read

The exhibition “negaraku” may borrow its title from the anthem, but its version of the story hardly toes the line of official sources—each artwork offers its slice of truth, which, put together, forms a more complete picture.

by Yee Heng Yeh

Water You Thinking?

…

by Azmi Hussin

After 15 Rousing Years, the Penang Renaissance Still Resonates Clearly

8 min read

We are at one of those self-appraising points in time when we—not only Penang Monthly, but also Penang Institute as a whole—stare hard into the rearview mirror in order to orientate our journey forward.

by Dato' Dr. Ooi Kee Beng

A Personal Journey to Imbibe Offal, One Organ at a Time

5 min read

If I were to locate the exact point in time when I became serious about food, it would have to be upon reading Anthony Bourdain’s essay in The New Yorker, “Don’t Eat Before Reading This” and his later book, Kitchen Confidential.

by Sheryl Teoh

Penang As A Food Paradise May Need To Stretch Its Offering From Street Food to Fine Dining

4 min read

Penang as a food paradise may need to stretch its offerings.

by Lee Chong Chee

Fermented Food: A Plate of Penang's Rich Story

5 min read

Do you remember your first taste of tosai? It is an entire experience. A sleepy daybreak sojourn into a nondescript kedai under an ageing tree.

by Liani MK

Visualising Penang's Essence Through Penang Monthly

3 min read

When the Penang Monthly team approached us to revamp the design of the magazine, they had already garnered a base of readers who had familiarised themselves with the tone, look and feel of the magazine—after all, it has been in existence for more than 10 years.

by Fam Kai-Cong & Kevin Teh

Honouring Penang's Creatives

6 min read

As Penang’s creative industry continues to gain more prominence, it is essential to recognise the unsung contributors working tirelessly to propel its growth.

by Bernard Loke

Is Penang Ready for a Biennale? A Comprehensive Review of Recent Art Events

5 min read

As a vibrant hub for arts and culture, Penang has seen a surge of events in recent years. Those like Palai Penang and Beyond Contemporary Art Penang (BCAP) showcased the island’s potential as a cultural destination.

by Ivan Gabriel

Birding in Air Hitam Dalam Educational Forest

5 min read

Air Hitam Educational Forest, or AID as it is affectionately known amongst the birding community and photographers alike, is located in Seberang Perai Utara.

by Andrew & Karen Jordan

Penang Slipper Orchid: The Crowning Jewel of Penang's Floral Diversity

5 min read

The lush and verdant hills of Penang are home to a plethora of flora and fauna, which have enthused many naturalists over the generations. Much like some local fauna which have inspired awe and popular appeal, certain species of flora too have aroused fascination and intrigue.

by Rexy Prakash Chacko

In Awe of Treasures Under the South China Sea

10 min read

The South China Sea (SCS) is a breathtaking expanse of crystal-clear blue waters, spanning approximately 3,500,000km² with an average depth of 1.2km.

by Hanis Razalli

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