Penang House of Music closes door after seven years

Penang’s only music repository, the Penang House of Music (PHoM), has closed its doors permanently after seven years of operation.

The closure, announced on the museum’s Facebook page on March 16th, comes despite a visit from Malaysia’s Communications and Digital Minister.

Financial difficulties force closure

“It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that the Penang House of Music (PHoM) is shutting down permanently,” said Paul Augustin, the founder.

He cited challenging financial circumstances as the primary reason for the closure, a decision he described as “hugely difficult but somewhat inevitable.”

PHoM opened in 2016 with the support of the Penang State Government and Perbadanan Berkalan Air Pulau Pinang (PBAPP).

Over the past seven years, it has become a cornerstone of the cultural landscape, not only for Penang but for all of Malaysia.

Penang House of Music: A hub for music and culture

PHoM housed a comprehensive exhibition showcasing the rich history of music in Malaysia, with a particular focus on Penang’s unique musical heritage.

The museum also served as a valuable resource center and a vibrant performance space for local artists.

“PHoM has welcomed more than 50,000 visitors from over 50 countries and organized over 300 events,” said Augustin.

“We’ve provided internship opportunities for students, assisted cultural and artistic practitioners with performance venues, and engaged with schools for educational events.”

While the immediate future of PHoM remains uncertain, Augustin expressed hope that its legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

“Although the outlook may seem bleak at the moment,” he said, “I still hope that the spirit of PHoM will continue to live in the hearts and inspire all those touched by this place over time.”

The closure of PHoM highlights the ongoing challenges faced by cultural institutions in Malaysia.

Despite its significant contributions to the community, PHoM’s inability to secure sufficient financial support ultimately led to its demise.

Just as the final curtains are drawn on the Penang House of Music, this writer’s mind echoes with the refrains of the 1891 song ‘After the Ball’ by Charles K. Harris:

After the ball is over, after the break of morn,

After the dancers’ leaving, after the stars are gone,

Many a heart is aching, if you could read them all,

Many the hopes that have vanished, after the ball.

Watch the final video from Penang House of Music here.