PENANG’s iconic heritage brand Ghee Hiang marked a historic milestone on Saturday (June 13) night when it was officially recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) as the country’s oldest traditional Chinese biscuit brand.
The recognition was announced by an MBOR representative during Ghee Hiang’s 170th anniversary celebration held at St. Giles Wembley Hotel, attended by former Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Lim Hui Ying, business leaders and members of the community.
Founded in 1856, Ghee Hiang has grown from a traditional family business into one of Penang’s most recognisable brands, renowned for its signature tau sar pneah, sesame oil and a range of heritage products that have become synonymous with the state.
In his speech, Chow described Ghee Hiang as more than just a successful business, saying it had become part of Penang’s identity and cultural heritage.
“For many Penangites, Ghee Hiang is a familiar part of life. We grew up with its sesame oil in our kitchens, its pastries on our dining tables during festive seasons, and its products as gifts carried by family and friends travelling home,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that the brand’s enduring success had earned it a place in Datuk Tony Yeoh’s book, Heritage Brands of Penang, which celebrates businesses that have shaped the state’s identity over generations.
“As I often say, Ghee Hiang is Penang, and Penang is Ghee Hiang,” Chow said, adding that the company had become one of Penang’s finest ambassadors, bringing a piece of the state to visitors around the world through its products.
While acknowledging the company’s rich legacy, Chow urged businesses to embrace innovation and adapt to changing times.
“The story of Ghee Hiang reminds us that heritage is not about standing still. Heritage is about carrying forward the values that made us successful while having the courage to evolve with the times,” he said.
Earlier, Ghee Hiang executive director Datuk Ch’ng Huck Theng reflected on his 25-year journey with the company, recalling how what began as a two-week stint to help his grandfather eventually became a lifelong commitment.
“Those two weeks turned into an unforgettable and exciting journey that has lasted more than a quarter of a century,” he said.
Ch’ng highlighted the company’s transformation over the years, from introducing new products and modern retail concepts to investing in research collaborations with universities and establishing a high-tech sesame oil factory in Simpang Ampat.
He also paid tribute to the century-long partnership between the Ch’ng and Ooi families, who acquired Ghee Hiang in 1926 and have worked together to safeguard and grow the brand.
“Tonight we are not just celebrating a business, we are also celebrating 170 years of pure friendship between the two families,” he said.
Ch’ng said the company’s success ultimately belonged to the people of Penang, whose support had helped carry the brand across generations and beyond Malaysia’s shores.
“Today, Ghee Hiang does not just belong to the two families. Ghee Hiang belongs to Penang and to all Penangites,” he said.
As guests celebrated the company’s 170-year journey, the evening served as both a tribute to its rich heritage and a reminder that the beloved Penang brand continues to evolve while remaining rooted in the traditions that made it a household name.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian