EMPOWERMENT is not just about being seen but it is about being given the chance to lead, to contribute, and to be recognised, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He noted that women have long been at the heart of cultural life, preserving traditions, passing down knowledge, and sustaining communities, despite many of these contributions having historically gone unseen or under appreciated.
“Programmes like Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 are helping to change that. They provide women with a platform to speak, to represent, and to take ownership of their heritage. That is important,” he said.
Chow added that such initiatives align closely with the state’s Penang2030 vision, which aims to build a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and contribute.
“This includes expanding opportunities for women in leadership, cultural spaces, and the economy.
“When women are empowered, the impact is far-reaching. Families become stronger, communities more resilient, and our cultural identity more confident and visible,” he said during his speech at the welcome dinner for Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026, held at 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang in Burma Road this evening.
Among those present were Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, Miss Heritage Global Malaysia advisor Datuk P’ng Soo Hong, Nova Elite Productions managing director Derick Tan, Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 organising chairman Isaac Lim, Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 image mentor Eileen Chuah, Ascott Malaysia country general manager Mondi Mecja and 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang owner Datuk Frank Koay.
Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 is the official national chapter of Miss Heritage Proprietary Limited (South Africa), organised by Nova Elite Productions Sdn Bhd.
The programme is endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture (MOTAC) and is dedicated to celebrating, documenting, and elevating Malaysia’s living cultural heritage through the stories and leadership of Malaysian women.
The culmination of Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 will take place on May 30 this month at The Majestic Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
One winner will be crowned Miss Heritage Global Malaysia 2026 and will go on to represent Malaysia at the World Final, competing alongside delegates from over 40 countries.
On tourism, Chow emphasised that the industry has evolved beyond traditional sightseeing.
“Travellers today seek deeper, more meaningful experiences, wanting to understand culture, connect with communities, and gain new perspectives.
“This means we must remain open to new ideas and emerging forms of tourism. At times, we may encounter concepts that are different or even unexpected. Some may spark discussion or controversy, but that is part of growth.
“As a state government, we welcome ideas that add value and diversify our tourism offerings, as long as they are responsibly implemented. When done right, they can create opportunities for local businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and inject fresh energy into the sector,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi
Video by Alissala Thian