THE launch of the Penangite Annual Pass for the Penang History Gallery marks a meaningful step towards reconnecting locals with the state’s heritage, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said today.
Describing the pass as “a simple idea with a big purpose”, Chow said the initiative aims to bring Penang’s shared history closer to its people.
“Heritage is part of our daily life. It lives in our streets, our buildings, our food, our traditions and our communities. Initiatives like this remind us that our history belongs to all of us,” he said.
The launch comes amid strong tourism momentum as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia 2026, which aims to attract 43 million international visitors through more than 300 events nationwide.
Penang International Airport recorded 8.31 million passenger movements in 2025, up from 7.47 million in 2024, while January 2026 alone saw more than 700,000 movements.
“These are encouraging signs of confidence in Penang as a destination for visitors, investors and the travel industry,” Chow said, adding that Penang’s authenticity remains its biggest draw.
“People come to Penang because they can feel something real here. That is what makes Penang different, and what we must continue to protect.”
He highlighted recent heritage efforts, including the gazettement of 35 intangible cultural heritage items under the Penang State Heritage Enactment 2011 and support for Unesco nominations such as the Chingay Parade and Lion Dance.
Chow also noted that the State Assembly passed amendments to the Penang Museum Board Enactment 2026 on May 14 to strengthen regulation, enforcement and governance in the heritage sector.
Priced at just RM10 for 365 days, the Penangite Annual Pass invites locals to revisit and rediscover the state’s history.
“Heritage is not only for tourists. First and foremost, it is for Penangites. When our people understand and appreciate it, they become the best custodians and ambassadors of Penang,” he said.
The initiative aligns with the Penang2030 vision of balancing development with identity, culture and community while supporting the creative sector, tourism economy and public pride.
Also present earlier were Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (Motac) Penang director Dr Annuar Mohamed, and Penang History Gallery directors Kevin Goh and Cool Koe.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi