November 2025

This November, Penang Monthly explores language, place and memory. As GTLF returns, we highlight Penang’s multilingual streets and the dialects that keep local history alive.

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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.

How To Be A Music Millionaire

7 min read

Turn yourself into a legitimate business and you’ll start seeing music not just as a creative outlet, but a business operation. You’d be surprised at how effective you (and your bandmates) can become when you start treating it that way.

by Moe Nasrul

A Couple's Passionate Journey On The Ikat Trail

9 min read

This collection of ikat textiles spans the Nusantara region, with different tribal cultures and histories, from the lush rainforests of Sarawak to the stunning, exotic islands east of Bali in Indonesia.

by Tan Sri Andrew Sheng & Puan Sri Lim Suan Poh

Ni Siap: From Forgotten Craft to Living Tradition

7 min read

Mangrove-based dyes have a long history across the world. Records point to their use from South America, India, Okinawa and Indonesia to Sabah by the Bajau and the Iranun ethnic groups; the practice was once widespread.

by Ong Ke Shin

Tsue Ta Tee's Calligraphy Legacy In Penang

6 min read

Tsue Ta Tee (崔大地) was one of the prominent calligraphers active in Penang and the region in the 1950s and ‘60s, who helped to leave this important legacy on Penang’s cityscape.

by Pan Yi Chieh

Threads In Transition: Helping Malaysian Textiles Evolve

5 min read

Most artisans I’ve met recognise that adaptation is necessary to keep these traditions alive. But there are also those who uphold a reverence for keeping things “pure”.

by Joanne Nathaniel

The Nyonya Kebaya: Wearing A Deep Heritage

5 min read

The exact origins of the kebaya are not known and are still debated, but two theories appear to prevail.

by Liani MK

The Art of Cindai: A Piece of Cloth that Can Save Your Life

5 min read

The roots of cindai can be traced back to the weft ikat technique introduced to the Malay world by Indian and Arab traders in the 14th or 15th century.

by Muhammad Amirul Naim Rosmi

AI Data Centres: How Many Do We Need?

5 min read

As of the end of 2024, Malaysia hosts 54 operational data centres (including two in Penang) offering a 504.8MW capacity, with Johor leading in IT capacity and Klang Valley remaining a core market.

by Elizabeth Su

Promoting Green Practices in Textile Dyeing

6 min read

A study by researchers from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) highlights the resurgence of local knowledge in textile dyeing using colourants/pigments extracted from natural resources.

by Nicole Chang

Lubna Jumabhoy: A Global Citizen of Penang

5 min read

Born in Bombay and growing up in Karachi before moving to Malaysia (then Malaya), Lubna Jumabhoy is a teacher of the Japanese floral art ikebana, and is France’s representative in Penang.

by Lim Wan Phing

Greening Penang Rules

5 min read

If Penang wants to maintain its status as one of the most liveable cities in the region, investing in quality green spaces is a given path to take.

by Dr. Matt Benson & Stuart Macdonald

Tenun Pahang DiRaja: Heading for the Global Market

8 min read

Originating from a small village, Tenun Pahang was worn by royalty, nobles or the chief of state. It later became the gift of choice for guests of the palace, whether they were locals or from abroad.

by Rachel Yeoh

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