The state’s cultural, educational and tourism sectors received a significant boost with the launch of the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery at The Light Waterfront, an initiative Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow described as a milestone for Penang’s creative development.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on Saturday, Chow said the gallery enhances Penang’s standing as a regional centre for arts and culture. “This gallery is not just another cultural facility. It reflects Penang’s spirit of creativity, progress and inclusion,” he said, congratulating founder Prof Lin Xiang Xiong and the partners behind the project.

Chow noted that Penang has long been celebrated for its vibrant artistic landscape—from street art and mural culture to its rich architectural heritage. He emphasised that the gallery aligns closely with the goals of Penang2030, particularly in areas concerning human capital development, the creative economy and community wellbeing.

“It will become a meeting point for art, education and tourism, helping strengthen Penang as a world-class cultural and heritage destination,” he added.

Chow also highlighted the unifying role of the arts in fostering understanding among diverse communities, a value echoed in the Malaysia Madani framework. The 2026 Federal Budget’s focus on creative industries and tourism incentives, he said, further positions Penang to benefit from renewed national support.

“Even though Penang is small, our talent and ideas reach far. This gallery shows Penang can serve as a cultural bridge to the world and create opportunities for knowledge exchange and global cooperation,” he said, welcoming Prof Lin’s message of “art for peace”.

The event was graced by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Datuk Seri Utama Ramli Ngah Talib, who attended as guest of honour. Also present were Penang State Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, former Chief Ministers Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon and Lim Guan Eng, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, state executive councillors, MPs, assemblymen, MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran and consuls general. Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang and his wife Neo Yok Tee were also among the distinguished guests.

Prof Lin, in his remarks, said the gallery was not merely an artistic endeavour but a reflection of Malaysia’s values at a time of global division. “Malaysia has chosen to respond with creativity and compassion. This gallery is a commitment to dialogue, and a reminder that peace is built through understanding,” he said.

Positioned as one of the region’s most ambitious privately founded cultural projects, the gallery will host international symposiums, artist residencies and educational programmes. Beyond serving as an exhibition space, it aims to function as a cultural think tank, fostering collaboration with global art institutions, universities and peace organisations.

The launch, attended by leaders from business, government, arts and academia, further underscored Penang’s growing prominence as an international cultural destination.

Image source: Penang CM’s Facebook