Augustin (right) demonstrating a recording system at Penang House of Music before it closed down. — Photos: CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
MUSIC will raise you up and make the whole world sing, but it does not always pay the bills.
Established in 2016, the Penang House of Music (PHoM) has had to close down due to insurmountable debts accrued during the Covid-19 pandemic.
After almost eight years of being hailed as a repository of arts and music for the state and nation, PHoM could no longer weather the hard times and shuttered on March 16.
Its founder Paul Augustin had told reporters that although the Penang government had committed to RM500,000 annual grants, the going was rough for the three years of the pandemic between 2020 and 2022.
Disbursements had to be delayed, causing payment disruptions.
PHoM’s 6,800sq ft space in Komtar came with a rent of RM17,045 a month, Augustin had said.
Although compelled to cease operations in Komtar, PHoM’s next option is to look for a new place to relocate its heritage musical exhibits.
“This time around, we want to make sure it is a permanent spot. We have a couple of options.
“We want to ensure that the people involved will have the same vision.
PHoM had its swan song last week after eight years in operation at Komtar.
“It is important to preserve what we have, both the tangible and intangible aspects,” he said when met at the Komtar location.
Nearly all the musical artefacts that had been on display in PHoM were loaned by people who shared a love for Malaysia’s musical heritage.
“We will return the ones on loan to their owners.
“Moving out will not be easy and will probably take a month or so,” he said.
Augustin said after the pandemic, the number of visitors dipped.
“We used to have groups from schools, universities and even kindergartens.
“Groups came from Singapore and even China,” he said.
Augustin said behind the scenes, they worked with universities, colleges and researchers, including Harvard University in the United States.
“We did not have a specific target audience and catered to all, from young children to the elderly,” he said.
A local who wished to be known only as Emily, said it was a wonderful experience walking around and learning about the Malaysian music scene.
South Korean Kwon (in blue) was among the last visitors to the PHoM.
“I did not know we have so much local talent.
“I wish they were not closing, hopefully, they will relocate,” she said after having a go at the drum set.
The baker said it was nice to learn about the various musical instruments used and their similarities with others from different countries.
“It is a good place to learn about our music culture and ensure it will not be forgotten,” she said.
South Korean Kwon Joon Han, who enjoyed his tour, was shocked to hear about the place closing its doors.
“I did not know about the rich musical scene here.
“The tour was educational. I was going to recommend the place to friends so they could come visit next time they are in Penang.
“Places like these are important because they are part of the heritage,” said Kwon.
The museum highlighted forgotten music genres and had a resource centre for musicians, scholars, academics, students and others.
PHoM, which was set up with an initial fund of RM3mil from Penang Water Supply Corporation in 2016, had been reliant on support from the state government since its opening.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state government welcomed interested parties keen to help PHoM.
He said the state had done its part by allocating RM500,000 annually to the museum.
“We have been giving substantial grants to assist them, whenever possible.
“They could use the money the best way possible, including for rental.
“However, I believe the revenue generated was insufficient for it to operate,” he said.
