THE Penang Brand Festival, held recently at Gurney Plaza from Oct 2 to 4, highlighted local culture, handicrafts, brands and Penang’s food heritage.
The event brought together local businesses, artisans, community organisations and members of the public through brand showcases, food competitions, cultural activities and performances, providing a platform for networking, promoting local brands and supporting the local economy.
Penang Chinese Entrepreneurs Association and Penang Community Harmony and Culture Association president Dr Lee Eng Wah said the festival reflected Penang’s rich cultural heritage and provided local brands with an opportunity to showcase their products and engage with consumers and potential business partners.
“Culture is our root; handicrafts represent our skills and craftsmanship, brands reflect our creativity, while food is one of the most accessible ways for people to connect and share.
“We hope to connect society through business and promote unity through culture, while creating more opportunities for entrepreneurs, community members and families from different backgrounds to interact through food, culture, handicrafts and performances,” Lee said.
Lee also said the Penang Brand Festival could eventually develop beyond a one-off event into a long-term platform for promoting local brands, connecting businesses, creating market opportunities and strengthening community ties.
“We hope that through different activities in the future, more people will be able to see Penang brands, discover Penang culture and experience the warmth of Penang, while working together to promote Penang and build a more inclusive and resilient local economy,” he added.
Among those present were Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Ooi Mei Mei, who represented state Trade and National Unity Committee chairman Goh Choon Aik, MBPP councillor Koay Gaik Lee and China Press northern region manager and organising chairman Law Wei Pin.
Speaking on behalf of Goh, Ooi said Penang is home to many outstanding local brands, unique products and traditional crafts.
“However, for brands to continue growing, having quality products alone is not enough. More platforms are needed to help consumers discover and understand these brands, while assisting businesses in expanding into wider markets,” she said.
The carnival also featured nasi lemak and teh tarik competitions, combining the elements of trade, culture and national unity. In addition, competitions featuring char koay teow and Penang Hokkien Mee were held to showcase some of Penang’s iconic local foods.
Pix courtesy of Penang Chinese Entrepreneurs Association