Tag Archives: Heritage

Church, Festivals, George Town, Heritage, Music

Journeying through George Town’s pipe organs

June 29, 2024 TrailingME 1 Comment

Malaysia’s oldest pipe organ is found at the Church of the Assumption on Lebuh Farquhar

On an island known for its richness in cultural and architectural heritage, music also plays an enriching role for its residents and visitors.

George Town’s Streets of Harmony (straddling Lebuh Farquhar and Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling), has been home to magnificent and heritage-rich houses of worship for centuries.

A brisk or relaxing stroll beginning from the Church of the Assumption (whose grounds also houses a Roman Catholic museum), onto St George’s Church, Goddess of Mercy Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple and ending at the Kapitan Keling Mosque, tells a tale of how multi religions can co-exist in harmony.

Penang island has also the distinction of being home to two majestic pipe organs found in two heritage churches on the same street in the Unesco heritage core zone!

Southeast Asia’s oldest Anglican church – St George’s Church in Penang – in 2017, received a bicentennial blessing in the form of a 1,050-pipe Mander organ.

It then joined the ranks of its “neighbour” – the Church of the Assumption in hosting its very own pipe organ.

Erected in 1914 and assembled in Penang by 1916, the Assumption Church’s pipe organ was restored in 2013, and carries the pride of being Malaysia’s oldest pipe organ.

As the annual George Town Festival returns to the island next month, a special music treat awaits pipe organ buffs.

Timeless classics by sons of Penang like Tan Sri P.Ramlee, Jimmy Boyle, Edwin Rajamoney and Tan Sri Ahmad Merican are among the tunes that will fill the air, as both heritage churches host lunchtime organ recitals on July 20 and July 27 respectively.

“I am excited to feature the organists of both churches at this innaugral event featuring the two lovely pipe organs in Penang,” says Leonard Selva Gurunathan, who is the resident pipe organist at the Church of the Assumption.

Gurunathan will also be playing some of his original pieces (inspired during the pandemic when he used to chase sunrises).

Young and upcoming Malaysian pipe organists like Matthew Arwinraj Jaya Paul are among the performers who will be infusing a new twist to P.Ramlee songs like “Hujan di Tengah Hari.”

He is also set to share a heartfelt piece “Lay Thine Hands” composed by his late grandfather, Edwin Rajamoney.

Penang’s Church of the Assumption will play host to one of the pipe organ recitals during the 2024 George Town Festival

Here’s a sneak peek of what to expect during the concerts, kindly presented by Leonard and Matthew …

FREE TICKETS https://www.cloudjoi.com/shows/free-lunchtime-organ-recital

Church

AGENT OF CHANGE: Essays on the life & times of Archbishop Emeritus Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam

May 11, 2024 TrailingME Leave a comment

WE were in the midst of a pandemic when this book project took off, and it took quite a bit of effort to reach out to various individuals and institutions for assistance with research and requests for personal interviews.

What amazed me with this exercise – which stretched over three years – was the kindness and generosity of people, ranging from the clergy to the laity, with opening their offices, homes and their hearts and giving their time and invaluable information to Theresa, Jacqueline and me.

Archbishop Julian Leow with a copy of the book

These encounters, video and audio calls, emails and countless to-ing and fro-ing along the way, gave great insights into the person Archbishop Emeritus Murphy Pakiam was and continues to be.

With Rev Father Francis Anthony (courtesy photo: College General, Penang)

The book, which was launched yesterday to commemorate 60 years of His Grace’s journey as a priest, offers what we hope is a glimpse of a great man and his personal commitment to mercy and peace.

And yes, if someday, the book is adapted into a film, my dream cast for a Netflix-inspired movie would include Malaysians like Hans Isaac and Elaine Daly (who coincidentally, is a grandniece of freedom fighter Sybil Kathigasu, who is mentioned in the book).

An undated photo of Archbishop Emeritus Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam (courtesy photo: College General, Penang)

(AGENT OF CHANGE: Essays on the life and times of Archbishop Emeritus Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam, is available at RM20, from the Catholic Research Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Call 03-20266472 or WhatsApp +6016-6386879 to order)

Christmas, Church, George Town, Heritage, Music, Photography

Christmas and the wonder of the Nativity

January 7, 2024 TrailingME Leave a comment

As the Advent season has drawn to a close, it is time to bid farewell to the beautiful Christmas crib that has been the centerpiece of our celebrations. This beloved tradition holds a special place in the hearts of many, as it reminds us of the sacredness and wonder of the Nativity.

The Christmas crib, also known as a nativity scene or manger scene, depicts the humble birth of Jesus Christ in a stable in Bethlehem. It typically includes figurines of the baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, the Three Wise Men (Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar) and various animals. The crib serves as a visual representation of the biblical story and invites us to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.

A scene from the manger recreated at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Penang

Throughout the Advent season, the crib has been a focal point of prayer and reflection, bringing us closer to the spirit of anticipation and hope. As we gathered around the crib, we were reminded of the immense love that God has for us, as he sent His only Son to redeem and save us.

Teacher and musician Leonard Selva Gurunathan generously shares the meaning of all things Christmas to him in this heartfelt video. His take on the meaning of family at Christmas, the spirit of the season embraced by Roman Catholics like him and his family with anticipation, and lovely anecdotes focussing on miniature photography, the pipe organ and Christmas carols, give a completely different spin to the loud and often obnoxious and over-the-top festive tones we embrace as we blindly take in all that is commercial and showy about the humble birth of Jesus Christ, and what the true gift of Christmas should mean for those who consider it a religious celebration.

So as we close the Advent season and bid farewell to the Christmas crib, let us carry the spirit of joy, love, and hope with us throughout the year. And may the story of the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ continue to inspire and guide us in all that we do.

(video courtesy of Leonard Selva Gurunathan with scenes from his Mount Erskine family home and the Church of the Assumption, Penang, home to the country’s oldest pipe organ)

Art, George Town, Heritage, Style, Travel

Sparking joy in sketches … the Penang way

November 17, 2023 TrailingME 2 Comments

A decade ago, Penang-born Tiffany Choong began sketching daily in her art journal, as part of her Happiness Project.

The self-taught artist discovered the joys of sketching through her global travels, which in turn it is said, gives her “a sense of purpose that fuels her soul.”

Just in time for Christmas, Tiffany presents EVERYDAY PENANG The Art of Joy.

She delivers playful pen and ink sketches, having drawn inspiration from simple objects she takes in daily.

Each sketch takes the reader not only into the “inner Penang” through the eyes of the artist, but is also paired with little pick-me-up quotes and words of wisdom along the way.

The visual treats found on every page of the compact book, is one which will spark joy with Penang residents and Penangites-at-heart, thanks to boutique publisher Clarity Publishing, who has connected Tiffany’s hometown and heritage with themes of love, loss and identity, including traditions and rituals.

As we wind up 2023 with an attitude of gratitude, the book serves as a gentle and colourful reminder to ourselves that “the simple joys of life will always shine through, if we let them.”

Copies of the book are available via https://www.clarity8.com/shopshop/en/gift-book/62-everyday-penang-the-art-of-joy.html

(All images courtesy of Clarity Publishing Sdn Bhd)

George Town

Requiescat In Pace

November 2, 2023 TrailingME Leave a comment

Rest in peace, a phrase from the Latin requiescat in pace, is sometimes used in traditional Christian services and prayers, such as in the Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican, and Methodist denominations to wish the soul of a decedent eternal rest and peace (Wikipedia)

Around the world on Nov 2, Christians observe All Souls’ Day, also known as the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed and the Day of the Dead.

This is a dedicated day of prayer and remembrance for the souls of those who have died.

A wreath at the Kelawai Road Catholic Cemetery in Penang to commemorate All Souls’ Day

If there is one thing which sets the Kelawai Road Catholic Cemetery in Penang on All Souls’ Day apart from others, it is the care and love displayed to honour and remember their dead.

Step into this private cemetery owned and managed by the Church of the Immaculate Conception Penang, and the level of order, cleanliness and dignity accorded to the dead stand out.

Not a single grave or columbarium niche is forgotten or overlooked, especially on All Souls’ Day.

On normal days, a smiling Hafiz tends to the grounds with well-clipped lawns and tidy paths.

Thanks also to a band of selfless and amazing parishioners, flowers and candles are arranged for placement to honour the dead ahead of Nov 2.

Parish priest Monsignor Jude Miranda blesses the flower-filled and candlelit columbarium niches

A lot of hard work goes behind the scenes in preparing bunches of flowers for the graves & niches

Fresh flowers and tea lights adorn the niche of a beloved parent & husband

There were many emotional moments today at the cemetery when loved ones were welcomed to a sea of flowers and flickering tea lights at the final resting place of their family members and friends.

The gentle recitation of the rosary as the blessing was under way, lent comfort and a sense of peace to the living.

We each are aware that our days on earth come with an expiration date. But isnt it nice to know that even in death, we will never walk alone in some communities?

George Town

A Hainanese treasure returns

October 27, 2023 TrailingME Leave a comment

(Update 12/6/24 – Dear Valued Customers,

We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve moved back to Batu Ferringhi and are now operating at our cozy new stall at No 3A-3G, Jalan Sungai Emas, Batu Ferringhi. You’ll find us conveniently located along Jalan Sungai Emas, right across from a car wash station.

In addition to our famous Hainanese Spring Rolls, we’re now serving up delectable Hainanese Chicken Chop! Our operating hours are 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM.

Come on over for our exciting new offerings and the same great traditional Hainanese taste! We can’t wait to see you soon! Team Hainan Treasures)

They survived the pandemic by cooking their famous Hainanese Spring Rolls (also known as Choon Pneah) and delivering these golden bites to loyal customers at designated spots.

Since 2002, Wilson Lim and his mother have worked tirelessly at a food court located along the Batu Ferringhi tourism belt, and had successfully introduced this Hainanese snack to both tourists and locals.

Their relocation into George Town recently has spelt easier access to their faithful (and hopefully, new) followers.

Wilson and Joe are now operating from a cosy spot in Nagore Square and are there daily from 4pm-10pm (except on Wednesdays) and serve the rolls pipping hot with their signature dipping sauce.

Lest you get confused if you go to Batu Ferringhi and meet their clone there, here’s Joe with a friendly message …

Serving the real McCoy

Follow them for more updates on https://instagram.com/hainantreasures?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Eats, George Town, Homes, Photography, Style

Nailing a good sugee cake

August 20, 2023 TrailingME Leave a comment

It is not a place one associates with great sugee (semolina) cake, but this is Penang, and you just never know what lies behind a door, the side of a backlane or even a monsoon drain here!

In this case, it’s a grand mansion by-the-sea, known simply as 32 Mansion. I always admire businesses with simple names coined from their addresses or postcodes. (the street address being 32 Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah).

A visit to this 1920s sea-fronting Italian villa, is a history lesson in itself …

(Extracted from the business operator’s website)

BUILT FOR LEONG YIN KEAN, THE SON OF TIN MAGNATE LEONG FEE, WHO HAD FALLEN IN LOVE WITH ITALY WHILST A STUDENT AT CAMBRIDGE, THIS ELEGANT ITALIANATE VILLA ON GEORGE TOWN’S NORTH BEACH LOOKS OUT OVER GARDENS ONTO THE SEA.
IT WAS DESIGNED BY CHARLES MILLER (OF STARK & MCNEILL) AND IS LOCATED ON “MILLIONAIRE’S ROW” (NORTHAM ROAD BUT NOW RENAMED JALAN SULTAN AHMAD SHAH).

THE MANSION WAS BUILT IN 1926 AND MODELED AFTER THE OPULENT VILLAS IN LONDON’S REGENT’S PARK. SADLY, LIKE MANY OF PENANG’S MANSIONS, IT FELL INTO A STATE OF DISREPAIR AND HAD BEEN USED AS A MOTOR-BIKE CENTRE CALLED BIKER’S PARADISE AND HAD AS MANY AS 30 TENANTS LIVING IN PARTITIONED BLOCKS ALONG ITS ONCE ELEGANT ROOMS.

RESTORED TO ITS FORMER GLORY IN 2000 BY ESCOY HOLDINGS IT IS A MODEL OF HERITAGE CONSERVATION BY ADAPTIVE RE-USE AND IT NOW HOUSES THIRTY-TWO AT THE MANSION AND BEACH BLANKET BABYLON.

Back to their sugee cake … it can be found on Beach Blanket Babylon, or BBB’s dessert menu or pre-ordered as a fresh and buttery takeaway (it’s advisable to order the full-sized sugee cake at least 3 days ahead).

While BBB is better known for its crab laksa, the humble sugee cake has received equal praise from those who appreciate this baked goodness, for which many Eurasian, Peranakan, Chinese and Indian aunties (and uncles) guard the recipes fiercely.

Step into the home so cosily and welcoming created by Kah Hock, for either a slice of his sugee cake or the rest of the great spread offered.

Walk away with not only a satisfied meal, but endless shots of this great home and (it’s grounds) for your countless Instagram and other social media posts!

George Town

Honing the power and possibilities of art in a city

June 13, 2023 TrailingME Leave a comment

It’s baaaack!

Save the dates from July 15-30 for yet another edition of the George Town Festival (GTF).

‘Celebrating the Power and Possibilities of the Arts in the City’ is the theme adopted for this 14th edition of what continues to be a promised spectacular celebration of art, culture, and heritage for all to experience.

The festival presents a myriad of outstanding artistic works by Malaysian and international artists, (including those from Penang) featuring productions across varied art forms ranging from traditional, contemporary, experimental, and multidisciplinary.

“This makes George Town Festival 2023 the most exciting iteration in recent years, bridging tangible and intangible heritage through continued global artistic partnership and exchange,” its organisers said in a statement.

GTF was first mooted in 2010 to honour George Town’s inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

Over a decade later, the festival continues to elevate the visibility of the city’s heritage while creating spaces and platforms for increased cultural engagement through the arts.

“Since its inaugural edition, GTF has become a hallmark event in Malaysia and remains an avenue for creatives, festival-goers and stakeholders to engage with the arts and one another, spurring discussions, bilateral relations, and increased collaborations through and for the arts,” say it’s organisers.

Currently in its 14th edition, GTF 2023 features over 50 programmes with free access to 70% of its shows and events.

The programme line-up (https://georgetownfestival.com/2023/programmes_/the-monkey-king-adventures-love-of-onibaba/# ) includes several premiering and debut productions, indigenous-ethnic-cultural performances, digital installations, books and game launches, community-based events, and a series of arts masterclasses, workshops, and forums.

They will be spread across 20 over locations in George Town and the wider Penang area.

To further stimulate global artistic partnerships, GTF 2023 will facilitate performances and events between artists from East and West Malaysia and creative exchange with Taiwan and Australia.

This year, the festival is partnering with the Australian High Commission as a channel to honour the 50th-anniversary celebration of George Town and Adelaide as sister cities.

A highlight of this is ‘The Senses’ which will present a sensory and immersive musical experience within the naturescapes of Penang Hill’s 130-million-year-old rainforest.

In its effort to deepen awareness and appreciation of traditional art forms, GTF 2023 also includes several ethnic-traditional cultural performances to help elevate the visibility of intangible heritage in Penang and beyond.

Highlights in the programme are Panggung Semar, bhumiMATA, and The Monkey King Adventures: Love of Onibaba.

George Town Festival 2023 is a project by George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI), organised by TLM Event, and endorsed by the Penang State Government and the Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy.

It is fully supported by the City Council of Penang Island and Penang Global Tourism.