By V. Sivaji
Penang’s iconic brand – Ghee Hiang celebrated its 170th anniversary in grand style at the St Giles Wembley Hotel here last night.
A host of dignitaries led by Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow along with former Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, H.E. Mr. Psusist Wongsurawat, Consul General of Thailand in Penang, YB Lim Hui Ying, Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development; Member of Parliament for Tanjong, among a host of other dignitaries, friends, associates, business partners made it a memorable occasion
Welcoming them was Dato’ Ch’ng Huck Theng, Executive Director of Ghee Hiang and his team members.
In his opening address, Chow expressed his great pleasure to join and celebrate a truly remarkable milestone, the 170th anniversary of Ghee Hiang.
“For many Penangites, Ghee Hiang is a familiar part of life. We grew up with its sesame oil in our kitchens, its pastries on our dining tables during festive seasons, and its products as gifts carried by family and friends traveling home.
“For 170 years, Ghee Hiang has been part of Penang’s story. Few businesses can say they have served generations of customers while continuing to remain relevant in changing times. In fact, Ghee Hiang’s success has been recognized beyond the business community.
“As I often say, Ghee Hiang is Penang, and Penang is Ghee Hiang,” remarked Chow.
He also added that Ghee Hiang has become one of Penang’s finest ambassadors. Visitors from around the world bring home its products together with memories of our state. Through every box of pastries and every bottle of sesame oil, they are also bringing home a piece of Penang.
He reminded us that the story of Ghee Hiang reminds us that heritage is not about standing still. Heritage is about carrying forward the values that made us successful while having the courage to evolve with the times.
Ch’ng in his speech also thanked his loyal customers for their support and encouragement.
“This is a deeply emotional moment for me. Almost 25 years ago, my grandfather asked me to step in and help Ghee Hiang for just two weeks. He needed to attend a wedding in Australia. Those two weeks turned into an unforgettable and exciting journey that has lasted more than a quarter of a century.
“Although these 25 years has been a roller coaster ride, we have revamped Ghee Hiang to fit the new generation. We constantly innovate with new products,” he said, adding that they wanted to make Ghee Hiang a proud brand for Penang, for Malaysia and for the world.
The gathering also saw long serving staff being rewarded for their loyalty and dedication, This was followed by a grand cake cutting ceremony joined by all the dignitaries.
Also present was Penang Island City Council Mayor Dato A. Rajendran, YB Teh Lai Heng, Dato Khoo Boo Lim, Ooi Chok Yan CEO of Penang Global Tourism, Abdul Hadi Che Man, Tourism Malaysia director among a host of other attendees.
