THE much-anticipated Penang International Food Festival (PIFF) @ Tanjong 2025 officially kicked off today with a grand launching ceremony at Armenian Park, setting the tone for three exciting weekends dedicated to Penang’s iconic, colourful and irresistible foodscape.
Organised by the office of Deputy Finance Minister and Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, and endorsed by the Penang government, PIFF @ Tanjong 2025 is fully supported by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Penang Global Tourism (PGT), with Dreamz Productions Events Management Sdn Bhd as the festival manager.
Carrying the theme ‘Penang Hawkers & Street Food’, Armenian Park is now transformed into a vibrant arena celebrating the island’s world-famous street food culture.
Crowd favourites filling the air with tantalising aromas include asam laksa, apam balik, nasi lemak, roti canai, nasi tomato, ais kacang, char koay teow and char kuay kak, reaffirming why Penang continues to be hailed as the world’s street food capital.
More than just food, visitors are immersed in a lively festival atmosphere featuring multicultural performances such as gamelan, zapin dance, mask-changing, lion dance on stilts, bamboo dance, diabolo and high-energy live band showcases.
Against the backdrop of the George Town Unesco World Heritage Site, the park is filled with families, friends and eager foodies, capturing the festival’s picturesque décor and vibrant moments.
Before the main celebration at Armenian Park, the opening weekend began this morning at Sia Boey Urban Archaeological Park under the ‘Coffee & Dessert’ theme, running from 9am to 5pm.
Tomorrow (Nov 2), PIFF @ Tanjong 2025 continues across two locations namely Sia Boey (9am – 5pm) and Armenian Park (5pm – 11pm).
Deputy Finance Minister and Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying and Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai jointly officiated the opening ceremony.
In his address, Wong said the festival has now become a beloved signature event, attracting thousands of food lovers from within Malaysia and abroad.
“With PIFF @ Tanjong 2025, we are not only celebrating food but also showcasing the many facets of George Town, including its heritage, creativity and warm hospitality.
“This is what keeps Penang firmly on the global tourism map,” Wong said.
He added that November and December are once again bringing Penang into its peak celebratory mood.
“The festive season is upon us. Across the state, preparations are in full swing, from major international events to rich cultural celebrations. We are ready to welcome travellers from all corners of the world with joy, colour and vitality,” he said.
For a full list of upcoming events, Wong encouraged the public to visit PGT’s official website: https://mypenang.gov.my/events/all-events/?quarter=4&lg=en
Also present during the opening ceremony were Jelutong MP RSN Rayer, Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, Batu Lancang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, PGT chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan and George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee.
PIFF @ Tanjong 2025 Schedule:
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting