Opening doors to George Town's vibrant history

Honing in on heritage: (From right) Wong, Ang and representatives from organising partners announcing GTHC 2025 at the GTWHI office in Lebuh Acheh. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: The George Town Heritage Celebrations (GTHC) returns with an expanded programme spanning three days this year.
The event, to be held from July 5 to 7, will feature 23 cultural workshops, six interactive performances, a family-friendly walk and eight historic building open houses.
It is organised by George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) in collaboration with 39 community partners including cultural associations, religious bodies and heritage custodians.
GTWHI general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee said GTHC 2025's theme of Doors and Doorways invites visitors to explore the deeper narratives and collective histories that define the city.
'More than just entrances, these doors will serve as passages to articulate the personal stories, aspirations and values that made George Town a World Heritage Site.
'The celebration also aims to deepen our community's storytelling capacities,' she told a press conference here yesterday.
State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai described the doors in George Town as not just physical entrances, but emotional and cultural thresholds.
'They connect inside and outside, past and present, tradition and reinvention. They remind us of who we were, while pushing to ask – who are we becoming?' he continued.
He said this question was particularly resonant as GTHC enters its 17th iteration – a number long seen as a symbolic, coming-of-age milestone.
'It's a time to ask fresh questions and seek innovative ways to connect with our heritage and ensure its relevance for generations to come.
'This shift towards storytelling reaffirms our commitment to nurturing community narratives and enhancing how Penang's heritage is communicated to both locals and global visitors.
'It's not just about preserving walls – but letting those walls speak,' he added.
GTHC 2025's programme will begin with the Cultural Workshops on July 5. To be held around the heritage enclave from 6pm to 10pm, it is expected to draw 18,000 visitors.
Offering immersive, hands-on experiences in traditional crafts, foodways and languages, it targets families seeking meaningful activities and tourists keen to learn about local cultural practices.
'GTHC 2025 will be a celebration for everyone from families to students, heritage lovers and curious explorers alike.
'Whether it's a craft you create at a workshop or a memory you share with loved ones, you will leave with something truly meaningful,' Ang noted.

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