A SEA of participants clad in blue took time out on their Sunday morning to join the George Town Heritage Walk 2026, embarking on a 5km route through the city’s historic enclave under cool and pleasant weather, in conjunction with the 18th anniversary of George Town’s inscription as a Unesco World Heritage Site.
The annual walk drew some 2,000 participants from across Malaysia and 15 countries and regions, with families, heritage enthusiasts and visitors gathering as early as dawn to celebrate the city’s rich cultural legacy.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the strong turnout reflected the enduring appeal of George Town and the special place it continues to hold in the hearts of people from near and far.
“As we celebrate our 18th anniversary, we are reminded that heritage is more than historic buildings and streets. Its true value lies in its ability to bring people together across cultures, generations and communities,” he said when flagging the walk this morning.
According to Chow, participants ranged from infants just a few months old to active senior citizens aged 80, highlighting the inclusivity of the heritage celebration.
He also pointed to the overwhelming response to the George Town Heritage Celebrations, noting that more than 20,000 people attended yesterday’s Street Festival held yesterday.
“The event will continue today, and I hope those who missed yesterday’s gala celebration will join us later this evening.
“As we walk through the streets of George Town, we celebrate not only a rich cultural heritage and legacy, but also the friendships, understanding and shared experiences that heritage inspires,” he said.
Chow said heritage remains a powerful force in connecting people across cultures and generations, helping to keep George Town vibrant and meaningful even as the city continues to evolve.
He stressed that the Penang government remains committed to ensuring that development and heritage preservation progress hand in hand under the Penang 2030 vision.
“As Penang advances towards the Penang 2030 vision, we remain committed to ensuring that progress and preservation continue to go hand in hand,” he said.
Chow also thanked the George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI), strategic partners, sponsors and volunteers for their contributions to making the annual celebration a success.
The George Town Heritage Walk is among the flagship events of the George Town Heritage Celebrations, commemorating the city’s historic inscription as a Umesco World Heritage Site on July 7, 2008.
Also present were Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, GTWHI general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee, and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis