A FERRY-THEMED Lego set has been added to the Penang Ferry Museum at Weld Quay, giving visitors a new and creative way to learn about one of Penang’s most iconic symbols.
The Lego model, curated by Wong Wing Yew, recreates the familiar Penang ferry and is now part of the museum’s exhibits to attract more visitors, especially families and children.
Wong, 41, said the idea came up recently and was seen as a simple but meaningful activity for visitors.
“When this idea came up, we felt it was not bad and could be developed into an activity,” he said, referring to the placement of the ferry-themed Lego set at the upper deck of the iconic museum.
He said the Lego ferry is made up of about 4,000 pieces and was carefully assembled.
“The display has drawn strong interest from the public. This is the only set I have, and people have been asking if it can be sold,” he said.
Penang Ferry Museum curator Siti Solehah Azizan earlier briefed Buletin Mutiara on the history of the iconic ferry.
“The ferry holds a special place in Penang’s history and remains an important symbol for the state,” she said.
She said the museum tells the story of how the ferry connected the island and mainland for decades and supported daily life, work and trade.
“The ferry is not just a mode of transport; it is part of Penang’s identity and shared memories,” she said.
Siti Solehah added that many visitors feel a personal connection to the ferry.
“Some remember taking the ferry to school or work, while others recall family trips. These memories attract people to the museum,” she said.
She said creative displays such as the Lego ferry help visitors better understand the ferry’s history.
“These displays make the experience more interesting, especially for children and younger visitors,” she said.
Meanwhile, ferry crew member Faizal Mansor said he often explains how the old ferry engines operated and the technical details involved.
“There are many technical aspects in the old iconic ferry engine, and students are always eager to learn how it worked whenever they visit,” he said.
Faizal said it is meaningful for him to share this knowledge with the public.
“It is a privilege for me to explain and expose this information so it will not be forgotten,” he said.
The Penang Ferry Museum is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Admission fees are RM29 for adults, RM15 for children and RM15 for senior citizens.
In conjunction with the Thaipusam festival, free entry will be given to the first 900 children from Jan 31 to Feb 2 to encourage family visits.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting