IT was a vibrant morning at Beach Street this morning, where a total of 2,000 enthusiastic participants took part in the annual George Town Heritage Walk (GTHW).
The 5km walk drew participants from 19 countries, including Malaysia.
It was held as part of the George Town Heritage Celebrations (GTHC) to commemorate its recognition as a Unesco World Heritage Site, a title that was inscribed in 2008.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who flagged off the walk, said that being a Unesco World Heritage Site is not just a title, but a shared responsibility for everyone, not just the authorities.
“It is a responsibility that does not belong only to George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) or the city councils (Penang Island City Council and Seberang Perai City Council), but to all of us, including residents, businesses, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and even developers.
“Everyone has a part to play in protecting what makes this city so special.
“Our heritage is what sets us apart, and it is also what draws people here from all over the world. If we lose it, we lose more than just buildings, we lose stories, identity, heritage and value,” Chow said.
Chow also added that George Town’s charm was built over centuries by people of different backgrounds who came for opportunities and made Penang their home, giving the city its unique soul and character.
He further shared that through the walk, participants would not only explore streets rich in history and heritage buildings, but also learn about the life stories of the communities that shape George Town’s identity.
“These include the Baba Nyonya, Indian Muslim, Tamil, Hakka, Hokkien, Eurasian, as well as other communities, all of whom contribute to the cultural heritage we enjoy today.
“At the same time, the event supports the Penang2030 vision, which aims to strengthen identity and heritage as a source of economic and social value.
“This aligns with efforts to make Penang a world-class heritage and tourism destination.
“So I hope this walk inspires all of us to do a little more.
“Take the time to look around, talk to people, and reconnect with the history that surrounds us every day,” he added.
Also present were MBPP mayor Datuk A.Rajendran, Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng,
Chief Minister’s Incorporated (CMI) general manager Datin S.Bharathi, and GTWHI general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee.
Some of the pictures taken during the event :-
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Siew Chia En