IT was a special day for Penang as Ghee Hiang, the oldest biscuit and sesame oil brand, relive its glory days with a new look!
The new look is also aimed at promoting and revitalising Penang’s heritage and cultural scenes.
Ghee Hiang, which is situated along Beach Street in George Town, has been a key part of Penang’s history since its inception here in 1856.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present to officiate the brand relaunching ceremony, applauded Ghee Hiang for not only weathering the ups and downs of the economy for more than a century and a half but also evolving, making the business relevant in today’s modern era.
“There is no doubt that Penang has a long and illustrious history, and Ghee Hiang has been an integral part of it for the past 167 years.
“I am honoured to be invited to the reopening of Ghee Hiang’s Beach Street boutique, which has stood proudly along this important business district since the late 19th century.
“The owners told me that they have spent more than RM200,000 on the renovation works here.
“It is more important to note, however, that the money was spent to turn back the clock and recreate a late 19th century Straits Settlement shop; adding to Penang’s heritage nostalgia during a time when there was an influx of Chinese workers, or ‘coolies’, from China.
“This shop reminds us of our forefathers’ hard work in shaping Penang into what it is today. I applaud the effort because it preserves and modernises the past, ensuring that Ghee Hiang remains an iconic Penang heritage brand.
“Earlier this month, a ceremony was held at the Eastern and Oriental Hotel to commemorate and recognise firms or entities in Penang which are more than a century old.
“These are organisations which have contributed to the colourful past and present of Penang, and I am glad that Ghee Hiang was one of the recipients at the award-giving ceremony.
“This is proof that the Penang government is consistent in our stand that our cultural heritage, be it in the areas of education, business or community service, would be given due recognition and protected,” Chow said in his speech during the brand relaunching ceremony in Beach Street, George Town, today.
Ghee Hiang is popularly known for its handmade ‘tau sar pneah’ (mung bean pastry) and pure sesame oil. Many customers also buy Ghee Hiang gifts and confinement products.
Chow said Ghee Hiang started as a humble roadside stall in Penang in the late 19th century.
“Congratulations Ghee Hiang on your achievement,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ghee Hiang executive director Datuk Ch’ng Huck Theng said the newly-renovated outlet is reminiscent of the late 19th century Straits Settlement shop during British colonial era.
“This outlet features a large window on each side of its entrance, showcasing an attractive array of merchandise and items behind the store’s window.
“Ghee Hiang is not only in the manufacturing and exporting businesses, but also in retailing, tourism, arts and culture.
“We are proud to say that we are one of the unique companies that contribute to the various industries in Penang,” Ch’ng said.
At the event, Ghee Hiang introduced its new DarkChoc, WhiteChoc and ChilliChoc cookie series in conjunction with the Chinese New Year festival.
Also present were state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin and Penang police chief Comm Datuk Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat