Heritage trustees converge on George Town

PENANG is hosting the 28th edition of the national-level International Museum Day Festival (HMA) in George Town until tomorrow.

It features 40 booths displaying exhibits from museums across the country as well as Singapore and Indonesia.

The festival launch at the Dewan Sri Pinang auditorium was kicked off by the award-winning Zeppo Youngsterz dance group, which entertained guests with a five-minute routine that combined elements of traditional Malay dance and silat moves.

The 15-member group was brought in by the Pahang Museum Board.

Perbadanan Adat Melayu and Warisan Negeri Selangor assistant curator Mohd Aidy Khairunizam explaining the taxidermy process to visitors during the festival.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow accompanied Deputy Unity Minister Saraswathy Kandasami who was representing Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, in visiting the booths after the launch.

Also present were state tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, state museum and art gallery director Haryany Mohamad and state museum board directors including Datuk Ahmad Farid Abd Jalal from Pahang.

In his opening speech, Chow said the prestigious nine-day event had attracted renowned museum practitioners from throughout Malaysia as well as abroad.

“I fully recognise that the role of heritage trustees is not an easy one, as they face numerous challenges.

“And without these institutions, our historical legacy and museums would disappear.

“I highly commend those involved in preserving historical facts and artifacts, as it is crucial for the development of our self-identity.

“I also believe that this annual festival will inspire the community to deeply appreciate the historical values of our state and country,” he said.

Chow encouraged international participants to explore Penang’s heritage sites during their visit, saying that Penang is renowned worldwide for its heritage buildings and its diverse culinary culture while the enclave of inner George Town is recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Saraswathy said she was pleased that the festival was being held in Penang, where she grew up.

“This year’s festival is themed ‘Museum for Education and Research’ and 32,000 museums from 158 countries are taking part.

“International Museum Day has been observed annually on May 18 since 1977 by the International Council of Museums,” she said.