GEORGE TOWN: After nine years of closure for restoration and upgrading work, the Penang State Museum has reopened with a new look, reflecting the state government’s commitment to preserving and upholding history, heritage and culture.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the RM18 million project involved two phases, namely the restoration of heritage buildings to maintain the original architecture as well as the development of new, more modern interior spaces and exhibitions with 15 spaces to display nearly 1,200 artefacts related to Penang.
He said the use of technology such as high-tech projector systems, interactive kiosks, simulators and motion detectors makes the history learning experience more interesting, inclusive and high-impact, especially for the younger generation.
“Since opening in 1965, this museum has become an important institution in preserving the state’s history before closing in April 2017 to make way for comprehensive restoration and upgrading work.”
“With a fresher and more interactive exhibition approach and a strategic location in the heart of George Town, the state government is targeting at least 2,500 visitors per month or about 30,000 visitors per year,” he said at the museum’s reopening ceremony here last night.
The opening ceremony was officiated by the Yang Dipertua Negeri, Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and was also attended by his wife, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah and the Chairman of the state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee, Wong Hon Wai.
Chow said the state government believes that heritage preservation is not just about conserving buildings or storing artefacts, but rather a long-term investment in shaping community identity, strengthening unity and instilling an appreciation for history and cultural diversity.
Meanwhile, Wong, who is also the Chairman of the Penang State Museum Board, said the concept developed highlights elements of the school environment as the main theme, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of learning in the past through the layout and style of the exhibition.
He said that the interpretive elements were arranged to revive the memory and history of education as well as the introduction of the concept of a contemporary museum with an exhibition section based on the Rukun Negara concept, which is the axis for every Malaysian.
“This building is recognised as a state heritage site under the Penang State Heritage Enactment and Heritage Buildings under the National Heritage Act 2005. Therefore, this large-scale restoration project aims to restore its original appearance as well as ensure compliance with heritage building conservation work standards,” he said.
Wong said another branch of the Penang State Museum will open at Building No. 57, Jalan Macalister this September to feature exhibitions focusing on the state’s ethnic diversity.
He said the Penang State Museum, which is open from Saturday to Thursday, is offering free entry to all visitors until August 31.
— BERNAMA
