TWO well-known local pharmacy brands – Georgetown Pharmacy and Wellings Pharmacy – have teamed up with iconic Penang Tambun biscuit maker Ban Heang to launch an exclusive ‘Gift with Purchase’ campaign at Wellings No. 5 on Macalister Road in George Town today.
The campaign, which runs from today until Aug 22, covers eight selected Georgetown and Wellings outlets.
Customers who spend a minimum of RM150 in a single receipt at any participating store will receive a complimentary box of Ban Heang’s signature Tambun biscuits, while stocks last, along with a limited-edition postcard and a beautifully designed shopping bag featuring Penang’s heritage charm.
State executive councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, Wong Hon Wai, who officiated the launch, said the collaboration brings together Penang’s health and cultural identity.
“This collaboration not only offers a gift, but also showcases Penang’s hospitality and pride – especially to international guests who value both tradition and modern care.
“Thank you for promoting Penang as a place of healing, heritage, and medical service. May Penang shine as a world-class destination for medical services,” he said.
Ban Heang, which recently introduced its original and durian-flavoured layer cakes, has also created special packaging for its Tambun biscuits, highlighting the beauty and heritage of Penang. This gift merges the state’s healing traditions with its celebrated local flavours.
Wong noted that while 2026 is set to be Visit Malaysia Year, it will also be Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism – aimed at showcasing the country’s high-quality yet affordable healthcare and wellness experiences.
“Penang’s strengths lie in affordable yet high-quality healthcare, a multilingual professional workforce, strategic access to neighbouring countries, and a reputation built on trust and warmth.
“Medical tourists, especially from Indonesia and China, often choose Penang because of transparent costs, personalised care, and the island’s enriching cultural experiences,” he added.
Wong also announced that he will lead a delegation to Indonesia next week to explore further tourism opportunities, noting that Penang has direct flights to Medan, Aceh, Jakarta and Surabaya.
He revealed that Indonesian tourist arrivals often top the charts at Penang International Airport, followed by those from China and Singapore.
Georgetown & Wellings Pharmacy director Tan Zhen Yao expressed pride in partnering with Ban Heang for the campaign.
“Today marks the launch of a heartfelt collaboration between three well-loved local brands: Georgetown Pharmacy, Wellings Pharmacy, and Ban Heang. It’s a partnership that brings together everything we love about Penang – our community spirit, rich culture, and a shared passion for health and wellness,” Tan said.
He shared that Georgetown Pharmacy, established in 2002, has grown to over 45 branches across Penang, Kedah and Perlis, while Wellings Pharmacy, founded in 2007 in Pulau Tikus, now operates in nine locations.
“Today, with over 50 stores combined, both brands are united as part of the CARiNG Pharmacy Group, and we’re continuing to strengthen our presence in areas like Melaka and Johor Baru.
“This collaboration with Ban Heang feels natural – it blends our commitment to health with Penang’s unique flavours and heritage,” he explained.
In conjunction with the launch, free health screening and product tastings were held at the same venue.
Also present at the ceremony were Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, Penang Centre of Medical Tourism executive director Dr Mary Ann Harris, Georgetown & Wellings Pharmacy directors Wong Mei Fong and Mah Choon Leng, and Ban Heang wholesale marketing general manager Lai Chia Luen.
The participating stores in the campaign are:
- Georgetown Pharmacy Sri Nibong
- Georgetown Pharmacy Island 88
- Georgetown Pharmacy Jalan Macalister
- Georgetown Pharmacy Farlim Square
- Wellings Pharmacy Bellisa Row
- Wellings Pharmacy Mansion, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah
- Wellings Pharmacy No.5, Jalan Macalister
- Wellings Pharmacy Red Rock
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi