Summary
- George Town marks its 18th UNESCO World Heritage anniversary.
- Penang says the city’s UNESCO status remains secure.
- Cultural Heritage Hub (CH2) project officially launched.
- State gazettes 50 new heritage items in 2026.
Full Article
GEORGE TOWN, July 7 — George Town marked the 18th anniversary of its inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site today with the official launch of the Cultural Heritage Hub (CH2).
A landmark project that combines heritage conservation with cultural education and the creative economy. Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said George Town’s UNESCO status remains secure.
With its Outstanding Universal Value continuing to be protected through strong legal frameworks, planning policies and the collective efforts of government agencies, heritage organisations and local communities.
The RM10 million CH2 project will restore eight fire-damaged Category II heritage shophouses on Acheh Street into a George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site Interpretive Centre.
A Creative Economy Incubation Centre and a Cultural Practitioner Interactive Space. The buildings, damaged in a 2015 fire, have been leased by Lim Kongsi Toon Pun Tong to George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) under a 30-year agreement at a nominal rental.
GTWHI general manager Ang Ming Chee said the project is expected to take two to three years to complete and will serve as a model for the adaptive reuse of George Town’s 371 Category II heritage shophouses.
She said CH2 aims to demonstrate that heritage buildings can be revitalised into meaningful public spaces while creating opportunities for young artisans, entrepreneurs and cultural practitioners, ensuring George Town remains a living heritage city rather than simply a tourist attraction.
