Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow graced the Heritage Brands of Penang book launch ceremony at the E&O Hotel here last night.
The initiative was supported by the Penang Institute and authored by Dato Tony Yeoh.
Also present was the Minister YB Steven Sim, Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, Dato’ Dr Ooi Kee Beng, Executive Director of Penang and a host of guests.
A total of 59 local brands were recognised for their entrepreneurship and time tested efforts.
Chow said that this publication comes at a meaningful time for our state.
“As Penang continues to position itself within a rapidly changing regional and global economy, there is a growing need to understand what has shaped us and what continues to define us today. When we speak about Penang, we often refer to its diversity, culture, and history. These are lived realities.
“They are expressed through people, communities and businesses that have served generations of Penangites. The brands featured in this book are very much part of that story,” he said.
He added that many began as small, family-run enterprises. They grew through resilience, navigating economic uncertainty and evolving consumer demands. Some have been passed down through generations. Others have transformed themselves to stay relevant in a competitive landscape.
“Heritage, in this sense, is not something fixed in the past.It is something we actively carry forward. It requires effort, continuity, and at times, difficult decisions about how to evolve without losing what defines us.
“Heritage brands contribute quietly but meaningfully to our economy. They support livelihoods, build trust, and strengthen Penang’s identity as a place with depth and character. They are also part of our cultural landscape, shaping everyday experiences and collective memory. This is why documentation matters,” added Chow.
He also said that a book like Heritage Brands of Penang provides context. It brings together stories, reveals connections, and ensures these journeys are preserved for future generations.
“Today’s economy is increasingly challenging. The cost of living has risen, and for many, a traditional 9-to-5 job may no longer be sufficient. This reality requires us to think differently about how we generate income and build resilience. Entrepreneurship is one pathway.
“The stories captured in this book show that many of Penang’s most respected brands started small. They began with individuals who were willing to take risks, to try and to persist despite uncertainty.
“I would like to encourage more Penangites, especially our young people, to consider entrepreneurship. Be willing to take risks. Step forward and try. Sometimes, you simply have to take that first step and just do it, ” Chow added.
He also encouraged Penangites to leverage this to engage, explore, and understand the incentives and opportunities made available at the federal level to support entrepreneurial activities.
Among the heritage brands recognized are Yin Ch Tong Medical Hall founded in 1796, Chee Hiang (1856), Chop Chuan Guan Nibong Tebal (1860), Lam Wah Ee Hospital (1883), Eastern & Oriental Hotel (1886) and Presgrave Mathews (1898) to name a few.
Chow later joined hands with other VIP guests to perform the launch ceremony for the book. Guests were treated to a fine dinner put out by the F&B team of the hotel while being entertained by instrumental music by a guitarist.