Yeoh and Ashwin at the GTLF launch ceremony at The George
By V. Sivaji
The 13th edition of the George Town Literary Festival is back from November 23 to 26, 2023.
The theme this year is “Terra Incognita” or unknown or unexplored territory.
The event which started off with only five writers has now garnered some 75 writers from all over the world.
Present to announce the festival was Penang state government’s caretaker committee chairman for Tourism and Creative Economy Mr Yeoh Soon Hin along with Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran, GTLF director Ms Pauline Fan among others.
The launch was held at The George earlier today.
“GTLF has positioned itself as a prominent literary festival that honours and preserves literature, arts, and culture not only within the Southeast Asian region but also on a global scale.
“In my perspective, literature is one of the most effective forms of cultural diplomacy as it opens the door to shared experiences that transcend our differences.
“As a book lover myself, I believe that books are still the true and most powerful connector among people. The power of literature lies in its ability to unlock glimpses of ourselves in each other – to reveal our relatability and our humanity,” said Yeoh in his remarks.
He also added that the festival has further expanded last year to include curators for Tamil and Mandarin panels.
“The Penang State Government recognizes and deeply values the unifying power of arts and culture. As a committed supporter, we remain dedicated to fostering the ongoing progress and advancement of this realm within Penang. In line with the Penang2030 vision,
Meanwhile Ashwin added that some 6,000 visitors are expected to gather for the festival from all over the world.
The showcase is also supported by the High Commission of Canada
The festival’s main sites, including Loft29 at Gat Lebuh Gereja and Mano Plus at Beach Street, George Town, will serve as vibrant hubs for literary enthusiasts. The festival has thus far a line-up of 35 writers from 13 countries and counting.
Renowned international figures, including English novelist, Geoff Dyer, acclaimed Thai authors as well as S.E.A. Write Award winners Veeraporn Nitiprapha and Uthis Haemamool, 2-time Miles Franklin Literary Award winner, Michelle de Kretser, multi-faceted Burmese artist and poet, Maung Day, Tamil writer and poet Yuvan Chandrasekar, multidisciplinary Taiwanese artist, author Wu Ming-yi and American Professor of Journalism and International Affairs, Janet Steele are expected to attend.
Entrance for the GTLF is free.
