PENANG is honored to host the national-level 28th International Museum Day Festival (HMA) 2024 from May 13 to May 23 at Dewan Sri Pinang in George Town.
Themed ‘Museum for Education and Research,’ HMA 2024 marks Penang’s inaugural hosting of this prestigious event.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the guest of honour officiating the event, praised Penang’s efforts in hosting the festival for the first time.
“This prestigious event attracts renowned museum practitioners from both abroad and across the country. It helps spread the message of unity and empowers museum institutions.
“I understand that the role of heritage trustee is not an easy task, as there are many challenges they face. Without such institutions, our historical legacy and museums themselves would vanish.
“Therefore, I strongly commend those involved in preserving historical facts and artifacts for the development of our self-identity,” Chow said in his speech at Dewan Sri Pinang today.
Chow believed the celebration would inspire the community to deeply appreciate the historical values of our state and country.
“Penang is renowned worldwide for its heritage buildings and its diverse culinary culture.
“Our unique enclave in George Town, recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site, must be visited for its exceptional heritage architecture,” he said.
Chow also thanked state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, and the state Museum and Art Gallery director Haryany Mohamad for their tireless efforts in ensuring the event’s success.
He commended Penang Global Tourism, the Penang Public Library Corporation, Kraftangan Malaysia Cawangan Pulau Pinang, the Malay Heritage Centre Singapore, IHH Creative Hub Jakarta, Asosiasi Museum Indonesia Kalimantan, Dinas Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan Kabupaten Sintang, and Alliance Francaise de Penang for their participation in the festival.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai encouraged international participants to make the most of their time in Penang by visiting its heritage sites.
“We have numerous attractions here, and I believe that those attending the celebration can visit some of the iconic places to gain a better understanding of our heritage,” said Wong, expressing pride in Penang’s ability to host the event.
Deputy Unity Minister Saraswathy Kandasami, representing Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, expressed her pleasure that the festival was held in Penang.
“When I was young, I studied at Convent Light Street, which is near Dewan Sri Pinang. This area brings back fond memories for me,” she said, reminiscing about her younger days.
Among those present were Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, Haryany, and other distinguished guests.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis