A recent book launch marked the 50th anniversary of the George Town-Adelaide Sister City partnership, celebrating half a century of cultural exchange, mutual respect, and shared progress.
Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran underscored the significance of this enduring relationship, describing the book as a testament to the bond forged between the two cities over decades.
“The book beautifully captures the essence of this partnership, reflecting five decades of achievements, mutual respect, and deep cultural ties,” Rajendran said.
He also commended the visionary leaders who initiated the sister-city relationship and the community figures who nurtured it over time.
Rajendran also highlighted that the book not only chronicles the history of the partnership but also paves the way for future collaboration.
“The launch serves as a platform to inspire the next chapter of this enduring relationship,” he added.
The event coincided with the George Town Literary Festival, amplifying its cultural significance.
During his remarks, Rajendran shared insights from his recent visit to Adelaide, particularly praising its green energy and waste management initiatives.
He noted Adelaide’s success in reducing food waste to just 20% of total solid waste, compared to Penang’s 42%, and called for Penang to learn from these practices.
“We have also initiated green energy efforts in Penang, such as installing solar panels on government buildings,” Rajendran shared.
Adelaide’s Lord Mayor Dr Jane Lomax-Smith acknowledged the writers’ efforts in creating the book and emphasised its potential to foster economic and social interaction.
“History provides insight into the past but also sets the stage for the future,” she said.
Highlighting the parallels between George Town and Adelaide—both founded by members of the Light family and committed to socially progressive goals—Lomax-Smith underscored the shared challenges and opportunities in addressing climate change.
“Both cities are dedicated to climate mitigation strategies, from managing traffic to planting trees and preserving natural environments. With rising global temperatures, these efforts are more critical than ever,” she added.
Lomax-Smith also reflected on her recent visit to George Town, praising its initiatives in urban cooling and education.
She acknowledged institutions like Think City and the Penang Institute for fostering innovation and intellectual discourse to address global challenges.
“By aligning with others who share similar ambitions, we can achieve meaningful progress and tackle the pressing issues of our time,” she concluded.
The book features contributions from multiple authors, each bringing unique perspectives to the shared history of George Town and Adelaide.
Author Marcus Langdon highlighted technological advancements in both cities, such as the early adoption of electric cars and trams.
Meanwhile, another author Penang Institute’s Rachel Yeoh, shared a poignant anecdote from her interview with a Kampung Malabar hawker.
The hawker revealed how his grandfather had once deep-fried lor bak in Adelaide, illustrating a delightful cultural connection between the two cities.
Christopher Woolley, a design consultant involved in the project, described the experience of weaving the stories of both cities as inspiring.
“It was fascinating to uncover parallels and shared aspirations, showing how these two cities have influenced and learned from one another,” he said.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud