THE Penang State Art Gallery has launched a visually stunning and intellectually engaging exhibition titled Aquamarine – Penang’s Blue Haven: Life Beneath the Surface, blending marine science with artistic expression to spotlight the wonders of Penang’s underwater ecosystems.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, who officiated the event, praised the initiative as a milestone in Penang’s cultural and scientific landscape.
“This exhibition is a milestone for Penang, blending biodiversity science with visual arts to create an informal learning space for all.
“It is free and open to the public, giving everyone a chance to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of marine life up close,” Wong said in his speech during the launch of the exhibition at the Penang State Art Gallery at Dewan Sri Pinang on Oct 9.
Running from Sept 13 to Nov 15 this year, the exhibition is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except on Fridays and public holidays.
Admission is free, offering the public a rare opportunity to explore marine biodiversity through interactive installations, scientific specimens, and creative interpretations of coral reefs, mangroves, and coastal habitats.
Wong also expressed deep appreciation to the Penang Museum Board and the State Art Gallery (BSLNPP), as well as strategic partners including Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), AkuaTAR, the Department of Fisheries, and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu’s Institute of Oceanography and Environment (INOS).
“This exhibition is not just about art; it is about education, awareness, and responsibility.
“It encourages us to protect and preserve our marine ecosystems while celebrating Penang’s role in advancing marine science,” Wong added.
He also took the opportunity to reflect on Penang’s growing list of international accolades, including the designation of Penang Hill as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve (2021) and George Town’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
“Do you remember the exact dates we achieved these milestones?” he asked cheekily, drawing laughter from the crowd.
“These recognitions are not just badges of honour, but they add real value to our state and reflect our commitment to sustainability, heritage, and innovation,” Wong emphasised.
Penang Museum and Art Gallery director Haryany Mohamad, who was also present, shared her excitement about the exhibition’s interdisciplinary approach.
“This exhibition began as a dream, and today it has become a reality.
“We wanted to create something that not only showcases marine biodiversity but also invites people from all walks of life to engage with science through art,” Haryany said.
She highlighted the role of local researchers and institutions in shaping the exhibition’s content, noting recent achievements in marine biology and the importance of educating future generations.
“We are proud of Penang’s legacy in marine science. This exhibition is a tribute to the experts, educators, and artists who continue to inspire us.
“We are building bridges between disciplines, between science and creativity, between the ocean and the community,” she added.
Among those present were Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Bagan Jermal assemblyman Chee Yeeh Keen, Pinang Tunggal assemblyman Bukhori Ghazali, and Penang State Art Gallery Committee chairman Lee Khai.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan