By V. Sivaji
Some 112 establishments from various fields and vocations were recognized at the Penang Centennial Heritage Excellence Awards ceremony held at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel (E&O Hotel) yesterday.
This is the first time such recognition has been awarded to these establishments.
Present was Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow, State Secretary Mohd Sayuthi Bakar, Member of Parliament for Bukit Bendera, Wong Hon Wai, State Exco Chong Eng, Komtar assemblyman, Teh Lai Heng, Penang State Heritage Commissioner Rosli Nor, Penang Island City Council Mayor Dato Yew Tung Seang among others.
The ceremony was also to acknowledge and document the various craftsmen, associations, religious institutions, schools, private clubs, business establishments, hotels and other bodies who have been in existence for more than 100 years.
To this regard, the one and only hotel for the hospitality industry here to be recognized in the category is the iconic E&O Hotel which was established in 1885 by the Sarkies Brothers. They were represented by their general manager, Alison Fraser.
In his speech, the Chief Minister stressed the state’s commitment to document the living history of the state.
“The present development and prosperity is due to the dedication, sacrifice and hard work of the people from the various sectors.
“As such, their contribution should be recognized and appreciated. The documentation will also teach, encourage and motivate the younger generation of the history and pedigree of the state.
“To this regard, I also urge all those who have not applied for these statues to make their due applications, ” said Chow in his speech.
Other notable establishments recognized at the ceremony was the Hameediyah Restaurant, Penang Hindu Sabah, Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Penang Club, The Shell Station along Penang Road, Penang Football Association, Penang Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), Ghee Hiang, Kwong Wah Yit Poh Press and Nam Loong Jewellers.
Others were OSM Songkok, Hup Hoe Biscuit, Pitchay Gunny Fashion House, Han Chiang School, Penang Free School, Central Fire Station, (Beach Street), Penang Hill Corporation, Presgrave & Matthews (legal firm) among others.
Congratulations to all recipients.
