Penang Ferry Museum setback: Year-end hopes remain

The Penang ferry, a cultural icon, faced an unexpected challenge in its conversion to a floating museum.

The Penang government remains optimistic that efforts to preserve the historic ferry will push forward, ensuring the museum’s grand opening by year-end despite recent setbacks.

The ferry’s journey to become a museum

The iconic Penang ferry, Pulau Pinang, was meant to be transformed into a floating museum, showcasing Penang’s rich maritime heritage.

On October 3rd, the ferry was successfully moved from Bagan Dalam to the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT).

Unfortunately, just days later, water began to seep into the ferry, causing it to partially sink at its temporary location.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow addressed the incident, acknowledging the complexities involved in restoring a vessel of this age.

“This shows that many unused ferries are not in a state of seaworthiness, which brings us to the need to carry out detailed and thorough engineering inspection or repair works,” he stated.

The Chief Minister further noted the challenge and cost of preserving this cultural heritage, adding that the Penang government hopes the private company responsible, Printhero Merchandise Sdn Bhd, and port authorities will resolve the issue swiftly.

What led to the ferry museum setback?

According to several news reports, Pulau Pinang had already undergone significant repair and refurbishment work before the incident, with over 70% of repairs completed and 90% of refurbishments finished.

Exhibits, including vintage cars, were already aboard the ferry, ready to be part of the museum’s collection.

However, a leak beneath the vessel caused water to flood in, leading to the ferry listing dangerously to one side.

The situation raised concerns about the ferry’s seaworthiness, with many questioning whether further repairs could prevent future problems.

Penang Port Commission (PPC) chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin stated that Printhero Merchandise would take immediate steps to address the leak and continue the restoration process.

Moving forward with the Penang Ferry Museum

The iconic ferry’s journey from Butterworth to SPCT was meant to be its final voyage before permanently docking as a museum.

Once fully restored, Pulau Pinang will symbolise Penang’s maritime history, offering visitors a glimpse into the ferry service that began in 1894.

The original ferry service, which once transported vehicles, was retired at the end of 2020, replaced by faster, modern vessels.

The last remaining ferry continued transporting motorcycles and bicycles until July 2023, before being fully decommissioned.

Despite this setback, the Penang government remains hopeful that the ferry will complete its transformation into a floating museum by the end of 2024.

Restoring the ferry not only preserves an important piece of Penang’s history but also enhances the island’s tourism offerings.