November 2026

Penang Monthly | November 2026 is out now. This month, we journey through Penang’s South Asian links—from the enduring energy of George Town’s Little India to the remarkable restoration of Wadda Gurdwara Sahib. Discover stories of Punjabi cha, Ganesha at the threshold, traditional trades, migration, literature, art and the people keeping living heritage alive across Penang. Because heritage is more than buildings and archives—it is found in the languages we speak, the food we share, the work we do and the memories we carry.

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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.

Advancing Industrial Excellence Through Sustainable Development At Penang’s Industrial Parks

4 min read

THE SUCCESS OF the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone has played a pivotal role in shaping Penang’s economic landscape.…

by Kenneth Ong

Not Just Commodities: What Are Pop-Up Markets Actually Selling?

5 min read

“WAH, WHAT KIND of Muah Chee is this? So expensive one. You know you can get these for RM3 at…

by Sheryl Teoh

Between Profitability And Affordability: The Economics Of Night Markets

5 min read

THE PASAR MALAM is often associated with affordability. Yet its economic value transcends consumer prices. By bringing ready-to-eat…

by Nadhirah Zainuddin

Revisiting The Adagietto: The Forth Movement In Clay Exhibition

6 min read

MUSIC AND VISUAL arts share a profound symbiotic relationship, each continually inspiring the another. Composer Modest Mussorgsky, for example, was…

by Eric Yeoh

Reassessing Hobbies In The Age Of Social Media

4 min read

In this thought-provoking essay, Dato’ Dr. Ooi Kee Beng reflects on what hobbies reveal about modern life. Exploring ideas of identity, creativity, work and wellbeing, he argues that hobbies are more than pastimes—they are quiet acts of self-definition in an increasingly utilitarian world.

by Dato' Dr. Ooi Kee Beng

Revisiting Lim Kean Siew’s Experiment With Chinese Yixing Teapots

6 min read

TODAY’S COLLECTOR CULTURE is largely driven by thrill, such as chasing after blind boxes and limited drops, or simply…

by Nurul Natasha Amir

Farsighted Organisation Behind Penang’s Prowess In Chess Competitions

6 min read

From scattered school clubs in the 1930s to a vibrant chess community today, Penang’s chess journey is driven by generations of students, teachers, parents and volunteers. More than a game, chess has become a powerful platform for developing critical thinking, resilience and lifelong connections.

by Quah Seng Sun

The St Maur Sisters: A Penang Tale of Sacrifice, Resilience and Education

7 min read

From a perilous four-month voyage to building one of Asia’s most influential convent school networks, the Infant Jesus Sisters transformed girls’ education in Penang. Their resilience, faith and dedication left a lasting legacy that continues to shape generations.

by Chen Yen Ling

Inside Penang’s Pickleball Boom

6 min read

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by Liani MK

Peranakan Baroque Reading The Complexity Of Nyonya Porcelain Ware

5 min read

Hidden in old cupboards, Peranakan porcelain tells stories of identity, craftsmanship and cultural memory. Through the symbolism woven into every plate, bowl and teacup, these vibrant heirlooms reveal the rich heritage and traditions of the Straits Chinese.

by Anne Tan

The Old And The New In Harmonious Juxtaposition

1 min read

This poem is inspired by and builds upon Penang Monthly’s June 2026 editorial.

by Lucille Dass

Lucille Dass

Empowering Women Towards Financial Independence And Leadership Roles

5 min read

From political leadership and AI literacy to entrepreneurship and STEM education, Penang is expanding opportunities for women to lead and thrive. Discover how education is empowering the next generation of changemakers and shaping a more inclusive future.

by Elizabeth Su

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