A STATE representative has proposed that the Penang government consider gazetting the Rumah Suluk Sheikh Omar Basheer in Kampung Melayu as a heritage building.
Joseph Ng Soon Siang (PH–Air Itam) said the building carries significant historical value, particularly due to its association with Sheikh Omar Basheer and its link to 200 years of Islamic education in Penang.
“This gazettement would make it the first Rumah Suluk in Malaysia to be officially recognised as a heritage building.
“However, gazetting alone without sufficient financial support for conservation and historical documentation would not bring meaningful impact.
“At the same time, I would like to express my appreciation to the Federal Government for the RM100,000 allocation channelled to the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) this year for conservation works scheduled to begin next year.
“Nevertheless, the amount remains insufficient for comprehensive restoration.
“Therefore, I urge the state government to allocate at least RM500,000 under Budget 2026 to support efforts to preserve the heritage, history, and cultural identity of the Malay community in the Kampung Warisan Melayu (Malay Heritage Village) Air Itam area,” he said during the Budget debate at the State Legislative Assembly today.
It is understood that Kampung Melayu Lama in Air Itam is set to be declared the first Malay Heritage Village in the state.
Story by Riadz Akmal