Vibrant Nibong Tebal unveils rich cultural legacy

Nibong Tebal has celebrated its heritage with the launch of a cultural assets map, a historical timeline, and a collection of oral histories.

The initiative, unveiled at Firefly Jetty Café on Sungai Kerian, showcases the district’s unique identity through community voices.

Led by Arts-Ed, the project engaged residents since November 2024, capturing traditions, landmarks, and tales.

Booklets and posters will reach schools and community centres, while a website offers free access.

For Nibong Tebal’s people, it’s a chance to cherish their shared roots.

The launch drew local leaders and residents, affirming the town’s cultural pride.

Arts-Ed’s Chen Yoke Pin spearheaded the effort.

“This shines a light on Nibong Tebal’s hidden gems,” she said.

“It builds bridges through shared heritage.”

The project, Projek Warisan Budaya Nibong Tebal, tapped four communities: Sungai Udang fishers, old town residents, Byram estate workers, and Sungai Acheh farmers.

A six-member team ran workshops and interviews, documenting food traditions and folk tales.

“It’s a platform for locals to share stories,” Chen added.

“It strengthens their sense of identity.”

Jawi assemblyman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye officiated.

“Heritage isn’t just buildings,” he said.

“It’s the meaning we give places.”

He stressed preservation.

“This project reconnects us with our roots,” H’ng noted.

“It shapes our history.”

Also, the event sparkled. Teens recited sajak and pantun, showcasing local talent from SMK Methodist.

The outputs are vivid—illustrated booklets, infographic posters, and a website at www.arts-ed.my/nibong-tebal. They’ll spread to suraus, temples, and schools.

A board game on the ‘99-door mansion’ captivated guests. Dishes like sakkarai pongal and kuih kalakatar, some using local farm ingredients, fed the crowd.

Also, H’ng pushed deeper. “Urban planning must preserve identity,” he said.

“Nibong Tebal’s wisdom is its strength.”

Finally, funding came from ThinkCity’s Seberang Perai Small Town Grants, backed by the Ministry of Finance and Penang’s government.

It’s a “Nibong Tebal heritage revival” in action.

Nibong Tebal’s cultural map is more than data—it’s a community’s heart laid bare.

From tales to games, it binds past and future. Arts-Ed and locals vow to keep the story alive. What’s next for this heritage treasure?