THE State Chinese (Penang) Association (SCPA) marked a significant milestone tonight as it celebrated its 105th anniversary, a testament to more than a century of resilience, relevance and service to the community.
Congratulating the association on its remarkable journey, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said SCPA’s longevity reflected its unwavering sense of purpose and its ability to remain active and meaningful through changing times.
“One hundred and five years is no small achievement.
“Such longevity speaks volumes about the Association’s resilience, relevance, and unwavering sense of purpose,” he said, adding light-heartedly that retirement was clearly “not part of SCPA’s vocabulary”.
Chow said SCPA has, for over a century, played a vital role in strengthening unity within the Chinese community while contributing meaningfully to Penang’s multicultural fabric by striking a balance between preserving tradition and embracing progress.
The theme of the celebration, “105 Years of Nyonya Splendour”, he noted, was especially fitting as Peranakan culture is deeply woven into Penang’s identity, from architecture and customs to attire and cuisine.
Highlighting a recent cultural milestone, Chow welcomed the kebaya’s official recognition by Unesco as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, describing it as an honour that celebrates not only the garment’s elegance but also the shared cultural bonds of Southeast Asia.
“This recognition affirms that what we wear with pride at home can also capture admiration around the world,” he said, noting that the kebaya was also showcased during Penang Week at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
Chow also commended SCPA for its consistent presence in cultural showcases, community programmes and state events, describing the association as a quiet yet steadfast pillar in keeping heritage alive.
However, he cautioned that declining appreciation for traditional culture among younger generations remains a growing challenge in an increasingly fast-paced, digital world.
“Preserving culture does not mean resisting modernity, it means ensuring our traditions remain relevant, engaging and accessible,” he said, encouraging SCPA to explore creative approaches through digitalisation, education and youth engagement.
In line with the Penang2030 vision, Chow reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to working closely with community organisations to build a Penang that is not only economically vibrant but also culturally rich and socially cohesive.
As SCPA commemorates its 105-year journey, Chow expressed confidence that the association will continue to thrive as a beacon of unity, culture and service for generations to come.
Also present were state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, SCPA president Datuk Seri Tan Gin Soon, and organising chairman of the anniversary celebrations, Eric Ooi Ean Beng.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan