THE George Town Literary Festival (GTLF) is set to return this year with a familiar approach, enriched with a local touch.
The festival’s theme, ‘Word on the Street’, highlights its intent to connect with Penang’s streets, each carrying its unique significance.
This year’s festival, scheduled from Nov 29 to Dec 1, is now organised by the Penang Institute, which last managed it in 2015. They have taken over from the Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).
According to Penang Institute executive director Datuk Dr Ooi Kee Beng, the festival will span several notable locations, starting from China Street Ghaut, extending along Beach Street towards China House, passing St Xavier’s Institution, and ending at Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion in Leith Street.
Dr Ooi welcomed support from the private sector and interested parties for sponsorships to ensure a seamless transition from planning to executing the festival’s diverse programmes.
“Penang Institute believes the literary ecosystem here is robust and passionate enough for a bottom-up curatorial approach.
“Hosting the GTLF allows us to showcase and stimulate Penang’s literary culture, extending beyond George Town,” said Dr Ooi.
GTLF 2024 will feature 12 panel sessions, five book launches, three reading sessions, two creative huddles, a poetry reading session, and more. Topics will include cross-cultural perspectives on love, the future of citizen journalism, and creative non-fiction storytelling.
“We are open to local publishers interested in participating and hope to see more homegrown talents as part of this project,” Dr Ooi added during a media conference at Penang Institute in Brown Road, George Town.
Marking its 14th edition, last year’s GTLF attracted over 5,000 attendees; similar or higher numbers are anticipated this year.
Also present at the media conference was the Swedish honorary consul to Penang Ooi Geok Ling.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat