THE George Town Festival (GTF) today launched its first publication in the form of a photobook called ‘Penang at a Glance’, that features Penang’s breathtaking landscapes, festivals, celebrations, arts, culture, heritage, people and lifestyles.
The 96-page photobook was a collective effort of four tremendously talented local photographers; all of them who spectacularly captured the beauties surrounding the state with much detailing and colours in it.
One of the masterminds, S. Govindarajoo, 30, said he was proud to have his collection of photos selected to be featured in the photobook while thanking GTF for giving him the platform to do so.
He specialises in drone shots and has a soft corner for the many outstanding attractions in the state when clicking for stunning photographs.
“As a drone operator, I tend to see things that were unusual. What used to be just a hobby has now turned into a great passion,” Gonvindarajoo told the reporters during an interview session.
He currently works as an engineer in a multinational company in the state.
Another photo enthusiast, Oh Chin Eng, 33, who is also a civil servant, said his personality of being people-centric enables him to capture the best of candid shots – the kind of photography method he loves the most.
“I am not good at asking people to pose. So, that is why I always prefer candid shots.
“My themes are focused more towards people and lifestyles. Being a people’s guy, I find much delight when I am able to capture photos of people, especially the ones that add much value to it,” Chin Eng said.
Meanwhile the other two, Thum Chia Chieh, 43, an engineer and Sherwynd Rylan Kessler, 37, a professional photographer, were seen in jubilant mood during the launching ceremony.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, who launched the ceremony, said Penang is a place with incredible diversity and applauded the efforts taken by the photographers and GTF for reminding everyone about how beautiful Penang is through this amazing photobook.
“From George Town to Teluk Bahang and Batu Kawan to Batu Maung, the state doesn’t fall short of beautiful landmarks and landscapes that entice photo enthusiasts from near and far.
“From its colonial and heritage buildings, rugged landscapes, idyllic seascapes, humble street food, to a refreshing variety of people with different backgrounds and stories, there is always something to photograph.
“In this book, you will find familiar and rare images of Penang, from old pre-war shophouses, vanishing trades, friendly people in the George Town Unesco World Heritage Site, fish farms in Batu Maung to paddy fields in Seberang Perai and more.
“More than that, this photobook is also our effort in recognising our local talents.
“I want to express my gratitude to the talented photographers, who are all passionate Penangites, for utilising their talents to promote Penang’s beauty,” Yeoh said during the launching ceremony of the photobook at Bangunan U.A.B in George Town today.
GTF is an annual project by George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) and helmed by the Penang government.
While Penang’s prized cultural heritage and diversity are something that we must continue to appreciate, Yeoh hoped that this photobook will inspire a profound desire among the people to cherish and conserve our precious heritage.
“It is my wish too that this photobook will attract more festival-goers to Penang to discover its beauty and vibrancy in the future, thus boosting the state’s tourism sector in the long run,” he added.
Also present during the ceremony were Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi and GTF director Jack Wong.
The photobook is retailed at RM60 per copy, and it is available for purchase in stores and online at GTF’s website. For more information, please visit https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeTownFestival.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Law Suun Ting