THE rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life of Kampung Kota Aur in Penaga, Kepala Batas, have been immortalised in a newly launched book, Long Pah: The Living Heritage of Kota Aur.
The book documents the unique customs, traditions and enduring legacy of the village through the life story of Puan Latifah Abdullah, affectionately known as Long Pah, who, at 74, is recognised as the oldest active homestay operator in the area and a respected pillar of the local community.
Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, who officially launched the book at Kampung Kota Aur today, described the publication as more than just an illustrated text, saying it serves as an important record of the community’s cultural journey and a legacy for future generations.
He said the traditional practices featured in the book reflected the distinctive way of life of Penang’s communities, adding that their cultural heritage was something to be proud of and could stand alongside that of communities around the world.
“The book is more than just an illustrated text. It is a documentation of a cultural journey and a legacy for the future.
“The traditional practices featured in this book demonstrate that Penang’s communities have their own unique way of life, one that we can be proud of and that is on par with communities elsewhere in the world,” he said in his speech.
Wong also commended the Chrysalis Research Team from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Penang branch for its dedicated efforts in researching and producing the publication, with financial support from Think City.
He said the initiative was particularly meaningful as it helped preserve traditional customs and cultural practices that were gradually disappearing amid rapid modernisation and changing lifestyles.
Beyond documenting the village’s heritage, Wong said the book could also serve as a valuable reference for educational institutions, researchers and cultural practitioners.
He added that the publication had the potential to strengthen Penang’s profile as an international cultural tourism destination by showcasing the state’s rich heritage and the stories of its local communities.
Wong also paid tribute to Long Pah, whose life experiences, wisdom and knowledge formed the foundation of the book’s narrative.
He said her personal stories and perspectives had not only shaped the publication but also deepened readers’ understanding of Kampung Kota Aur’s cultural heritage.
Wong expressed his appreciation to Long Pah for sharing her life and experiences, as well as to the Chrysalis Research Team for bringing the project to fruition.
He also acknowledged Think City’s contribution, highlighting its commitment to community engagement and heritage conservation, which had made the publication possible.
Wong further thanked the residents of Kampung Kota Aur for their warm welcome and contributions, noting that their stories, memories and collective experiences had brought the book to life.
He said preserving Penang’s cultural identity required a collective effort to ensure that traditional practices and heritage continued to thrive alongside the state’s development.
“Let us work together to preserve Penang’s unique culture and heritage amid the country’s modernisation, ensuring that they endure for future generations.
“I am confident that through close cooperation among all parties, we can sustain our cultural heritage and position Penang as a model for sustainable, innovative and competitive tourism, both nationally and internationally,” he said.
Also present during the book launching was Ministry of Tourism and Culture (Motac) Penang director Dr Annuar Mohamed.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of YB Wong’s office