‘Musings’ by George Yeo launched in Penang

George Yeo‘s book, Musings, co-written with Woon Tai Ho, was launched at Jen Hotel in Penang, highlighting the enduring connections between Penang and Singapore.

This event, reflecting on the shared history and cultural ties of the two regions, drew notable guests including Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, former Penang Chief Ministers Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon and Lim Guan Eng, and several other distinguished attendees.

‘Musings’ celebrating shared heritage

During his speech, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasised the historical and cultural links between Penang and Singapore.

“Both Penang and Singapore share common traits despite their geographical distance,” Chow noted, highlighting the strong kinship and multifaceted interactions spanning trade, politics, and culture.

He reminisced about Penang’s era as a free port and its vibrant connection with Singapore, particularly through shopping trips, education, work, and even marriage.

“Your book, Musings, brings to life such political, economic, and social connections between people on a grander scale,” Chow said.

He praised the book for its insightful reflections on these ties and thanked Yeo for choosing Penang for its international launch.

Honouring cultural connections

Chow also highlighted the shared Baba Nyonya heritage between Penang and Singapore.

He cited notable figures like Hon Sui Sen, Ahmed Ibrahim, and Wee Chong Jin, who played pivotal roles in Singapore’s modernisation and had roots in Penang.

“Food is so close to our hearts that sometimes, like siblings, we make respective claims and fight over who originated the dish!

But I am sure we can all agree that Penang Char Koay Teow is better, and Singapore Chicken Rice is unrivalled,” Chow quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.

Yeo expressed his gratitude for the warm reception in Penang and shared his fond memories of the city.

“Penang holds a special place in my heart, as it does for many Singaporeans.

There is something about the island that inspires those who grew up here, a deep affection that never leaves them,” Yeo remarked.

Chow and Yeo both expressed hopes that Musings will inspire future generations to cherish and strengthen the bonds between Penang and Singapore.

Chow thanked the Commonwealth of World Chinatowns for organising the event and praised Yeo for his contributions to the arts and culture, particularly his role in realising the Esplanade in Singapore.

The launch of Musings not only celebrates the shared heritage of Penang and Singapore but also underscores the enduring connections that bind the two regions.

As Yeo noted, “Singaporeans feel at home in Penang, and Penangites feel at home in Singapore,” reflecting the deep and lasting bonds that continue to shape the relationship between these two vibrant communities.

Source: Buletin Mutiara