GEORGE TOWN, July 31 – The George Town Literary Festival (GTLF), Malaysia’s premier international literary event, officially unveiled its 2025 theme—Urban Myths and Memories—during a press conference held in Penang today.

The theme explores the emotional landscapes embedded in city life, from forgotten stories and whispered legends to collective and personal memories that shape urban identities. Celebrating its 15th year, GTLF 2025 will run from 28–30 November with over 60 writers from 12 countries, including Lize Spit, Madeleine Thien, Omar Musa, and Nur Masalha.

Audiences can expect a rich programme of panels, workshops, readings, a music heritage exhibition, and performances, curated to connect literature with cultural memory. Organised by Penang Institute with support from Greatech and HSBC Malaysia, the festival continues to champion inclusivity, creativity, and global literary exchange.