THE iNPENANG Best Guide 2025 has honoured six longstanding and iconic Penang brands for their exceptional contributions to preserving the state’s cultural heritage and shaping its vibrant identity.
iNPENANG is Penang’s leading free tourist and business magazine, showcasing the vibrant essence of the people, places, and events, promoting Penang as the ultimate destination for living, tourism, business, education, and healthcare.
Meanwhile, the iNPENANG Best Guide series is a hallmark feature of iNPENANG magazine, presenting a curated selection of Penang’s finest establishments, offering readers invaluable insights into Penang’s vibrant offerings.
A special presentation ceremony was held today at the Tropicana 218 Macalister building in George Town to pay tribute to these legacy brands.
The event was officiated by Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, who presented plaques and certificates to the six recipients.
They are Feng Yi Dumplings (serving traditional rice dumplings since 1970), Koon Kee (a true embodiment of Penang’s rich old-style coffee culture, founded in 1950), Ghee Hiang (renowned for its handmade, heart-baked Fujian Chinese pastries, since 1856), Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort (Penang’s hospitality landmark since 1973), Gama Supermarket and Departmental Store (serving the community since 1967) and Jeruk Madu Pak Ali (Penang’s favourite fruit pickle producer since 1985).
Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP) chairman Datuk Ch’ng Huck Theng, who is also the magazine’s chief editor, said there is a unique allure in these establishments that has stood the test of time.
“Renowned for their legacies and history, representing decades-sometimes centuries, of dedication, innovation, and trust, these brands have not only endured but thrived, adapting to changing times while upholding the essence of what made them exceptional from the start,” he said.
According to Ch’ng, this edition of iNPenang Best Guide – Old Brands is very significant, as it is the old brands that first helped to shape Penang in the tourism and retailing industries.
“It is important to acknowledge and protect our history and promote it. As time goes by, without authentic old Penang brands in our Unesco heritage site, it is like a body without a soul.
“We need to preserve and further promote our unique heritage so that visitors to Penang can enjoy and take a piece of Penang back after their visits.
“Penang may be small in Malaysia or even in the world, but we make very loud noises. Penang has it all, from old brands to heritage sites, from the beaches to the hills, from manufacturing to health assistance, and much, much more.
“It is a haven for those choosing to live, to visit, to invest, to study and even for medical and health pursuits; Penang should be your first choice of consideration.
“This is why the iNPenang Best Guide is very important to further inform and educate the best of the best in Penang,” he said.
Wong, in his speech, congratulated the six establishments as the enduring icons of the brand world in Penang and that their heritage, quality, innovation, and their timeless appeal are their key attributes, defining them as the legendary brands of Penang.
He also applauded Ch’ng for his dedication to promoting Penang’s premier establishments.
“The iNPENANG Best Guide series elevates Penang’s tourism profile and at the same time provides a vital platform for local businesses to reach a broader audience and enrich our city’s vibrant identity.
“Thus, I look forward to future editions and to celebrating even more of Penang’s finest,” he remarked.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Wong Sook Shyan