26/07/2026
Engagement Session with Intangible Cultural Heritage Practitioners on the Nomination of Items for Recognition as Penang State Heritage under the Penang State Heritage Enactment (Enactment 14).
An engagement session with Intangible Cultural Heritage practitioners was convened to gather views, recommendations, and supporting evidence for the nomination of cultural elements to be recognised as Penang State Heritage under the Penang State Heritage Enactment (Enactment 14). The event was officiated by YB Tuan Wong Hon Wai, Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative.
The session brought together cultural practitioners, heritage organisations, researchers, government agencies, and community representatives who have dedicated themselves to preserving Penang's rich and diverse intangible cultural heritage. The engagement formed part of the State Government's ongoing efforts to identify, document, safeguard, and promote living heritage practices for present and future generations.
The objectives of the engagement session were to introduce the nomination process under the Penang State Heritage Enactment (Enactment 14) as well as identify and discuss potential intangible cultural heritage elements worthy of State Heritage recognition. The SCPA submitted the nomination of Dondang Sayang and Chap Goh Meh as elements for discussion which include historical documentation, community evidence, and expert opinions to support the nominations.
The session commenced with welcoming remarks by the organising committee, followed by a presentation outlining the objectives of the Penang State Heritage Enactment, the criteria for nomination, and the evaluation process for intangible cultural heritage elements.
SCPA members were invited to present and discuss cultural practices that possess historical significance, community value, authenticity, and continuity of practice. Each nominated item was deliberated upon based on its cultural importance, uniqueness to Penang, current state of preservation, and potential safeguarding measures.
The discussions were highly interactive, allowing practitioners to share valuable experiences, historical narratives, documentation, and recommendations for strengthening each nomination.
The Engagement Session marked an important milestone in the implementation of the Penang State Heritage Enactment (Enactment 14). Through meaningful dialogue and close collaboration with cultural practitioners, the State Government has taken another significant step towards preserving and celebrating Penang's invaluable intangible cultural heritage.
The information and recommendations gathered during the session will assist the relevant authorities in evaluating nominations and formulating effective safeguarding strategies. Continued engagement with practitioners and community organisations will remain essential in ensuring that Penang's living heritage is protected, appreciated, and passed on to future generations.
