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Penang Institute Unveils "Heritage Brands of Penang," a Landmark Tribute to Enduring Enterprises

Penang Institute today launched Heritage Brands of Penang, a compelling publication that chronicles the remarkable journeys of local businesses with legacies spanning five decades or more.

Authored by Dato’ Tony Yeoh, the book features in-depth stories of 59 heritage brands alongside 21 emerging enterprises. It explores the visionaries behind these businesses, the challenges they overcame, and the core values and strategic decisions that have enabled their survival across generations. The volume highlights how these enterprises have navigated economic upheavals, leadership transitions, and evolving social landscapes while continuing to serve their communities and shape Penang’s commercial identity.


“The founders who came here with very little are like pebbles dropped into the waters of Penang, and their successors are ripples across generations riding on each wave, seeking to grow and sustain the legacy inherited,” said Dato’ Tony Yeoh. “My hope is that this book inspires our own shift—from OEM, Made in Malaysia, to OBM, Made by Malaysia.”

The launch was commemorated with a dinner at the historic Eastern & Oriental Hotel, attended by representatives from more than 50 featured brands, alongside policymakers, institutional leaders, and media partners.

The event was graced by Guest of Honour, Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow. Other distinguished guests included YB Steven Sim Chee Keong, Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, and YB Zairil Khir Johari, Penang State EXCO for Infrastructure, Transportation and Digital. Their presence underscored the critical role of long-standing businesses in sustaining Penang’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Penang Institute extended its heartfelt appreciation to Dato’ Tony Yeoh and all participating brands for their unwavering support and cooperation throughout the book’s development.

“We at Penang Institute hold the strong conviction that much of what Penang has accomplished over the years was due to the passion and abilities of its people,” said Dato’ Dr. Ooi Kee Beng, Executive Director of Penang Institute. “We wish to continue to give voice to Penang’s people and their can-do spirit, their sense of community, and their contribution to the phenomenon we all love, which we, without need for a better word, call Penang.”

The Institute also acknowledged the generous support of its sponsors, whose contributions made the publication and launch possible: Platinum Sponsor Hong Leong Bank; Gold Sponsor GAMA Supermarket & Departmental Store Sdn Bhd; Silver Sponsors Eastern & Oriental Berhad, Lingham & Sons (M) Sdn Bhd, Thien Cheong Sdn Bhd, and Tai Tong Restaurant; and Bronze Sponsors Cheong Kim Chuan, Pelita Samudra Pertama (M) Sdn Bhd, and FinHero. Their support was vital in celebrating Penang’s enduring brands.

Heritage Brands of Penang brings to life the stories of household names, tracing humble beginnings, challenges surpassed, and the traditions that keep them thriving today. By documenting these journeys, the book preserves Penang’s entrepreneurial legacy and celebrates the timeless charm of brands that endure.

The book is now available for purchase. For more information or to obtain a copy, please contact Penang Institute at https://penanginstitute.org

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