Paul Augustin, Penang House of Music founder, showing Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil a detailed wall exhibit charting Penang's music history on March 7. Photo: Bernama
The Penang House of Music (PHoM), located on the fourth floor of the state's iconic Komtar building in George Town closed its doors today after more than seven years due to financial difficulties and lack of institutional support.
The public made a beeline to visit the gallery - known for its music treasures and heritage exhibits - for one last time before it shut for good at 5pm.
PHoM founder Paul Augustin said they had tried their best to stay afloat but had to proceed with the decision to cease operations due to financial constraints.
"This was not an easy decision, but I had to make it. I am sad, but at the same time, I feel relief. When we announced the closure, many came forward to offer their help, but perhaps this (closing down) is the best way forward.
"I've been thinking about it for over a year. How would we survive in such difficult situation and finally in February, I made the decision (to cease operations)," said Augustin.
Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil (left) is seen taking a brief tour to the Penang House of Music in George Town on March 7. The music museum and research centre, which focused on Penang's music history and beyond ceased operations today. Photo: Bernama
In addition to financial problems, he said people were unaware of the centre's existence due to its hidden location, even though it was listed as a must-visit spot for tourists.
However, Augustin expressed gratitude to the state government for trusting the centre and to creative industry players, schools and universities for their continuous support.
Meanwhile, Khor Phaik Hoon, 51, who was at the gallery today with his mother and two children, said he did not want to miss the chance to view the music history exhibited there.
Khor, an e-hailing driver, said he learnt about the gallery from a passenger from Kuala Lumpur.
"I was told that today is the last day ... my children were the most excited because they got to see many unusual musical instruments and my mother, who is a fan of P. Ramlee (who was a Penang native) was happy to reminisce about her younger days," said Khor.
Supported by the Penang state government, PHoM was opened in November 2016 with an initial 3mil funding to intensify efforts to preserve the state's music history and revitalise traditional arts performances such as boria, ronggeng, dondang sayang, inang, joget and keroncong.
PHoM served as an interactive music gallery, housing an exhibition area and a resource centre, which documented Malaysian music legacy focusing on Penang music and musicians.
On Thursday, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow revealed that the state government had provided a grant of RM500,000 to the centre over the past few years. - Bernama
