THE phase one of restoration works on the iconic Penang State Museum and Art Gallery in Farquhar Street has now been completed.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said that phase two, the final phase of the restoration work, is expected to be completed between six and nine months.
“This is the first time this museum has undergone such as a major renovation, as there hasn’t been any significant restoration before this.
“Phase one involved the physical restoration of the building. Meanwhile, the final phase includes an extensive interior layout and the placement of valuable artefacts.
“We expect the museum to attract thousands of visitors per month once it is opened to the public,” Wong said in his speech when he officiated the tiffin carrier exhibition at the museum last night (May 17).
Also present were Balik Pulau MP Datuk Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik and Penang Museum and Art Gallery director Haryany Mohamad.
Speaking about the tiffin carrier exhibition, Wong said it provides a good platform for visitors to learn more about the origin, history and types of tiffin carriers.
Wong added that this is a temporary exhibition until the end of June.
“As a matter of fact, this is the first exhibition held at this museum after it was closed since 2017 for restoration work.
“So, once the tiffin carrier exhibition ends, the final phase of the restoration work will begin in July,” he said.
Haryany also urged the public to visit the exhibition until the end of June.
“The tiffin carrier exhibition is part of the many programmes under the 28th national-level International Museum Day Festival (HMA) 2024, which is currently ongoing.
“We have around 100 tiffin carriers of various types on display,” she said.
Haryany added that a smart app known as HMA 2024 has also been developed for visitors to get updates on the HMA festival.
“It is important for visitors to download the app as all programmes and pre-registration can be made through the app.
“The app also provides the schedule of shuttle bus services during the festival,” she said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siew Chia En