Culture & Entertainment · Malaysia Bureau
Penang fire spares heritage Chew Jetty, state pledges aid for affected traders
A fire that destroyed five premises near George Town's iconic Chew Jetty left the 200-year-old heritage site untouched, Penang's Chief Minister said. The state government has committed to assisting the business owners affected by the blaze.
LSN Malaysia ·
GEORGE TOWN — The historic Chew Jetty, one of Penang's most cherished cultural landmarks, escaped damage when a fire broke out approximately 20 metres away in the surrounding area, according to Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. The fire destroyed five premises, displacing business owners and residents in the vicinity. Chow said the state government is preparing a comprehensive assistance package for those affected by the incident, though specific details of the support measures are still being finalised. The Chew Jetty, which dates back more than two centuries, is home to a predominantly Hokkien-speaking community and serves as an important heritage attraction for both locals and tourists visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town. The preservation of the jetty underscores the state's commitment to protecting Penang's cultural and historical assets amid urban pressures and development challenges.