AIR Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang has teamed up with iNPenang magazine to launch a special feature aimed at highlighting the township’s unique blend of culture, heritage, food and community life.
The special report, titled “Exploring Air Itam”, was unveiled on June 24 in Air Itam as part of efforts to present a more comprehensive picture of Air Itam beyond its well-known attractions.
Ng said the initiative was conceived as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Air Itam’s tourism identity and community development agenda while encouraging visitors to discover lesser-known aspects of the township.
It is learnt that the magazine will publish three different issues for a calendar year.
“Many visitors come to Air Itam for Kek Lok Si Temple or its famous local delicacies. However, Air Itam offers much more than that.
“From its rich history and traditional villages to its ecological attractions such as the Air Itam Dam and Penang Hill, the township provides a diverse and enriching tourism experience,” he said.
According to the special feature, Air Itam is a unique destination where culture, food, community life and nature coexist, making it one of Penang’s most distinctive neighbourhoods.
Ng said the collaboration with iNPenang magazine would help showcase Air Itam’s diverse attractions to a wider audience, including both local and international readers.
“I hope this feature will encourage people to spend more time getting to know the different facets of Air Itam.
“Whether it is Kek Lok Si Temple, the township’s renowned food offerings or Penang Hill, we want visitors to slow down and uncover another side of Air Itam.
“From our history and community life to local businesses, recreational spaces and natural landscapes, Air Itam has many stories worth exploring in greater depth.
“We are grateful to iNPenang magazine for helping us realise this vision,” he said.
The feature also recommends several immersive tourism experiences in Air Itam, including visits to traditional villages, historical landmarks, local eateries, recreational areas and ecological attractions.
Visitors are encouraged to spend a full day exploring the township and to head up Penang Hill in the evening to enjoy the sunset. Those who stay overnight can also experience the area’s cultural charm and daily community life the following morning.
Meanwhile, iNPenang editor-in-chief and publisher Datuk Ch’ng Huck Teng said the collaboration reflects the magazine’s long-standing commitment to uncovering and promoting Penang’s many dimensions.
“This partnership reflects our mission to highlight the many layers of Penang and help people discover compelling stories beyond the state’s famous landmarks,” he said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Law Suun Ting