THE Penang State Museum in Lebuh Farquhar will offer free admission again on Sept 15 and 16, says Penang tourism committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
He said the free entry would coincide with the anniversary of Penang Hill’s recognition as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve on Sept 15, 2021, and Malaysia Day on Sept 16.
He added that admission fees would be introduced from Sept 1, with Malaysians charged RM5 for adults and RM3 for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (OKU) and children aged five to 12.
For non-Malaysians, the fees are RM25 for adults and RM10 for children aged five to 12, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Wong said a total of 47,630 visitors had visited the museum as of Aug 26 since it reopened on July 24 after an extensive restoration and conservation project.
He said the number had already surpassed the museum’s annual target of 30,000 visitors set last December.
“We are now targeting an average of 1,500 visitors a month next year, as the museum strengthens its role as a key heritage attraction.
“The good turnout reflects growing public interest in Penang’s history and heritage, attracting both local and international visitors.
“The museum receives an average of about 1,000 visitors a day, while weekends have recorded close to 4,000 visitors,” he said during a recent press conference.
The museum reopened with an official ceremony on July 23, officiated by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and attended by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Following restoration works, the museum now features refreshed galleries showcasing Penang’s historical, cultural and social development, along with improved accessibility for senior citizens, children and persons with disabilities.
The state government offered free admission for five weeks, from July 24 to Aug 31, in conjunction with the reopening and National Month celebrations.
The initiative was to encourage more people, particularly Penangites, to reconnect with the state’s history, culture and heritage through a modern, visitor-centric museum experience.
Located in one of Penang’s most historic buildings, the museum traces its origins back to 1816.
The building initially housed Penang Free School before becoming Hutchings School and was converted into a museum in 1964.
The Penang State Museum Board was officially established on April 14, 1965.
