George Town's heritage status safe, says Penang exco member
State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai (center), GTWHI general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee (his right) and representatives from organising partners announcing GTHC 2025 at the GTWHI office in Lebuh Acheh. (June 11, 2025) — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star.
GEORGE TOWN: The city's Unesco heritage status is not under threat, thanks to the legal frameworks and town planning policies the Penang state government had implemented since its listing.
State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said this in response to questions by reporters in light of concerns from certain parties regarding gentrification and development.
"The state heritage enactment and local council guidelines have ensured that heritage buildings are safeguarded.
"We're now also moving beyond that into the area of intangible cultural heritage," he pointed out.
Wong said the state was strict regarding projects and developments, particularly within the 109.38ha core heritage zone, which is roughly bordered by Carnarvon Street, Malay Street and Love Lane, and stretches to the waterfront.
However, he said he had read about some issues with similar heritage buildings in Melaka.
He called on authorities and stakeholders there to continue adhering to Unesco's heritage building guidelines to preserve the heritage status of both cities.
Melaka and George Town were jointly inscribed together as a Unesco World Heritage Site in July 2008, so both cities must meet criteria to maintain their status.
Just like in Penang, various groups and individuals in Melaka had also expressed concern that gentrification and commercial development would threaten the cities' joint listing.
Wong said Penang's success in maintaining the outstanding universal values of George Town was due to the tireless efforts of various bodies such as George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI), which was set up in 2010 to spearhead efforts in safeguarding, managing and promoting the city.
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