THE fourth edition of PenangLang Community Day 2025 (PCD 2025) returns with an exciting array of programmes and activities, promising a vibrant celebration of heritage, culture, and community spirit.
Held in conjunction with George Town World Heritage Day, the two-day event will take place on June 28 and 29 at Sunshine Central, Air Itam, running from 10am to 10pm.
Penang Walkabout group administrator Robert Teh said what began as a modest community gathering in 2022 has since evolved into a full-scale celebration.
He shared that the event was originally conceived as a platform for local social media group members to connect and participate in heritage walks throughout July.
“As the years went by, the gatherings grew in scale and support. What started as a simple meet-up has now become a major celebration, featuring increasing participation from community groups, state bodies, government agencies, and private sector sponsors,” he said at a press conference in Komtar.
Also present were Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang and Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC) chief executive officer Datuk Ong Bee Leng.
PCD 2025 is now jointly organised by Penang Walkabouts and the Air Itam service centre, with strong backing from the Penang Exco office for Tourism and Creative Economy (Petace).
Wong noted that the event is a meaningful gathering that brings together diverse groups — from social media influencers and bloggers to culinary entrepreneurs, artists, families, and hobbyists.
“This is more than just a celebration — it’s a shared experience that strengthens our community ties while honouring George Town’s rich cultural legacy.
“Highlights will include cultural and community stage performances, family-oriented activities, heritage food stalls, arts and crafts displays, and a charity bazaar,” Wong said.
He added that the event also serves a charitable purpose — raising awareness and funds for local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community initiatives.
Teh revealed that approximately 50 booths will be set up over the two days, offering a dynamic mix of heritage-themed and interactive community experiences.
“PCD 2025 is about bringing people together — from heritage walks to fun workshops, family games, cultural showcases, a K-pop contest, and even a mixed martial arts match.
“These activities not only entertain but help us preserve our unique heritage and promote social interaction,” he said.
In a related announcement, Wong also unveiled that RondoFest 2025 — Southeast Asia’s premier classical music festival — will culminate with a grand closing gala in Penang on June 7, before making its international debut in Bangkok, Thailand on June 10.
“These landmark performances mark a bold new chapter for RondoFest. The expansion reflects our commitment to elevating Penang’s cultural presence globally and aligns with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, promoting regional cultural diplomacy through music,” Wong said.
He added that RondoFest has grown into a cultural jewel of Penang, positioning the state as a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and creative economy.
Also present at the announcement were Rondo Production founder and chief executive officer Kenny Ooi and Stonyhurst International School Penang principal Richard Moore.
The RondoFest 2025 closing gala will be held at 7.30pm on June 7 at the auditorium of Stonyhurst International School Penang, promising a night to remember.
The gala performance will be conducted by acclaimed New York-based Malaysian maestro Tengku Irfan, featuring the Festival Orchestra in a powerful programme that includes the Malaysian premieres of Koetsier’s Brass Symphony and Chan’s Drum Dance.
The evening will also feature Stravinsky’s Suites for Small Orchestra — a rare treat for Penang audiences — and conclude with Schubert’s monumental Symphony No. 9, “The Great”.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud