CJMY
In a bid to revitalize public spaces and enhance the aesthetic appeal of Air Itam Market Annex Food Court in Penang, a group of students and teachers from Sense Perfect International College (SPIC) embarked on a vibrant mural blind project.
The project, which lasted approximately a month, was a collaborative effort between SPIC, Penang Island City Council (MBPP), and Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng’s service centre.
Joseph Ng explained that the project aimed to breathe new life into the food court, which appeared dull and lacked vibrancy. SPIC was invited to join forces and demonstrate how the food court could be transformed into a more visually pleasing space.
Following this, as part of their corporate social responsibility, SPIC’s team created several paintings on a total of seven blinds, depicting iconic Air Itam landmarks such as Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple.
“The project is also a way for SPIC to give back to the community. We express our gratitude for their assistance and hope to inspire more NGOs to collaborate with the Penang government in enhancing and beautifying other public spaces,” stated Ng during a press conference held at the food court.
Furthermore, he also acknowledged the efforts of MBPP councillor Tan Soo Siang, who initiated the pilot project and removed unsightly banners from the MBPP food court.
The project incurred a cost of approximately RM4,000, and Tan expressed her desire for schools and colleges to collaborate with MBPP’s Licensing Department to improve the aesthetics of other food complexes.
Present were Mazni Suaib from MBPP, SPIC’s Rehneel Leow, teachers, students, and art professor Jess Teh.
Leow mentioned 12 students and teachers contributed to the project, brainstorming mural ideas. They received guidance from artist Jess Teh. She also expressed pride in the students’ achievements and their contribution to the food court’s beautification.
Ng’s “My Home, Air Itam” initiative featured six murals and a sculpture, including notable works like “Laksa,” “Curry Mee Ah Mah,” and “Susu Tarik.”
Situated at Jalan Paya Terubong and Jalan Pasar, Air Itam Market Annex Food Court is a beloved culinary destination in Penang. It offers diverse halal and non-halal hawker food and is busiest in the morning when the market is bustling.
Visitors can savour renowned dishes from stalls like Bisu Laksa (since 1957) and Koay Chap (since 1928). SPIC’s mural blind project revitalizes the food court and sets a precedent for future collaborations in enhancing public spaces.
Experience the transformative power of art and community effort in creating aesthetically pleasing environments that enrich the community’s experience.
Source: Buletin Mutiara
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Jimmy Tan
