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.

Leaving The Mediocrity Orbit: Seeking Excellence Through Upskilling and Mentorship

3 min read

By investing time and effort into acquiring new knowledge and skills (popularly known as upskilling), we equip ourselves to tackle challenges, explore new opportunities and grow personally and professionally.

by Goh Shuan Thing

Changemakers of Penang: Impact Where It Matters

3 min read

WIKI IMPACT 100 features everyday Malaysians involved in impactful work that positively changes society and the environment — people Wiki Impact terms a “change...

by Penang Monthly

Keat Hwa Band's Path To Excellence

4 min read

LET’S TAKE A nostalgic journey back to my school days, a time when bustling classrooms were alive with the enchanting melodies of trumpets, clarinets, flutes an...

by Iylia De Silva

Promising Initiatives at the Local Government Level

3 min read

WITH ITS AMBITIOUS goal of becoming a “Family-focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation”, the Penang state government faces numerous challenges suc...

by Ooi Tze Xiong

Learning Discipline and Trust Through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

4 min read

JESSEN ONG'S wedding day was celebrated with vows, music and love. He did not know it then as he cycled to his bride’s house as an excited 26-year-old, but that...

by Liani MK

George Town Festival: Where Do We Go From Here?

5 min read

IN 2008, the inner city of George Town (along with Melaka) was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site based on its Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) in cultu...

by Miriam Devaprasana

When Less Is More Expensive: The Trend of Shrinkflation

4 min read

WANTAN MEE IS a classic dish in Penang. Simple and tasty, it is a safe pick if you are unsure of what to order when eating out. It is usually served with fried...

by Philip Khor

How To Invest in Malaysia

5 min read

WE ALL HAVE DREAMS: Some may want to travel the world at their leisure, drive a luxurious car, or live within the opulent walls of a grand mansion. Although env...

by Kévin Poncelet

Events in September

3 min read

CARNIVALSSatisfy your taste buds at the St. Nicholas’ Home Food Carnival! This event goes beyond just a gastronomic experience—it is also an endeavour to ensure...

by Penang Monthly

Penang's Socio-Economic Excellence

1 min read

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by Ong Wooi Leng

Slowly, But Surely

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by Azmi Hussin

Preserving Sacred Traditions: Tow Bu Kong Temple of Hong Kong Street

2 min read

WALKING ALONG Hong Kong Street in George Town, I stumbled upon a hidden gem that continues to uphold Chinese traditions among the local Chinese community. The T...

by Hiroshi Yamashita

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