A row of eight heritage shophouses along Lebuh Aceh is set to be transformed into a vibrant Cultural Heritage Hub (CH2) under a RM10 million restoration initiative aimed at strengthening heritage conservation while promoting the creative economy within George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Launched in conjunction with the 18th anniversary of George Town’s inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the project is spearheaded by George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) through a collaboration between the Penang state government and the private sector. State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai described the initiative as a significant milestone in demonstrating how public-private partnerships can successfully preserve heritage assets while creating new opportunities for cultural, social and economic activities.
The project involves eight Category II heritage buildings along Lebuh Aceh, comprising seven Early Penang-style shophouses and one Southern Chinese Eclectic-style building. Owned by Lim Kongsi Toon Pun Tong and leased to GTWHI in 2024, the properties will be restored over the next two years. Upon completion, the development will serve as a centre for heritage appreciation, creative industries and community engagement, reinforcing George Town’s position as a living heritage city.
Designed by architect Johnny Ooi with placemaking as its central concept, the restored buildings will be adapted into spaces that encourage creativity, collaboration and cultural exchange while retaining their historical character. Plans include activating the rear lane into a communal public space, improving connectivity between the buildings and creating gathering spaces for both residents and visitors.
The completed CH2 development will feature three key components: the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site Interpretive Centre, offering exhibitions and interactive displays on the city’s history and architecture; the Creative Economy Incubation Centre, providing mentorship and support for heritage-inspired entrepreneurs and creative practitioners; and the Cultural Practitioner Interactive Space, which will host exhibitions, workshops, seminars and community programmes.
GTWHI general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee said the organisation is seeking RM10 million in funding and welcomed contributions from corporations, organisations and individuals. She noted that the project presents an opportunity for the private sector to support heritage conservation while contributing to the continued vitality of George Town’s World Heritage status. GTWHI has already invested approximately RM1.8 million in preliminary stabilisation and repair works on the previously fire-damaged buildings.
