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Penang state-affiliated bureau’s M’sia national day greeting features S’pore shophouses

Malaysia celebrated its 67th Independence Day on 31 August 2024. However, a state bureau in Penang caused a stir when it posted an Independence Day greeting on Facebook featuring a photo of shophouses from Singapore instead of Penang. The image in question was of Koon Seng Road in Joo Chiat, Singapore, mistakenly used by the Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).

## Background

The error was first noticed by a man surnamed Li, who questioned why the bureau did not use one of Penang’s many heritage buildings in Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Li expressed concerns that people unfamiliar with the region might mistakenly assume that Malaysia and Singapore are the same country. He criticised the bureau for not verifying the elements in the photo and for showing a lack of understanding of Penang’s cultural assets.

## Public reaction

Li’s comments highlighted the broader implications of the mistake. “People who are unaware may mistakenly assume that Malaysia and Singapore are the same country,” he said. He also noted that the bureau, as a state organisation, should be more responsible for the information it releases. “Such an oversight by the bureau shows a disregard for Penang’s cultural assets and also hurts the feelings of its people,” Li added. Despite the post receiving fewer than 10 likes, he stressed that such low-level mistakes should not be tolerated.

## Bureau’s response

In response to queries from Sin Chew Daily, the bureau’s chairman, Wong Hon Wai, explained that the designer of the poster had intended to use a photo of Jalan Kek Chuan in Georgetown. However, the designer mistakenly used the image of Koon Seng Road in Singapore. Wong elaborated, “The two buildings have similar styles and their differences lie in the decoration of the doors and windows. You have to look closely to see the difference.” The post has since been removed from the bureau’s Facebook page.

## Implications for future events

This incident underscores the importance of accuracy and cultural sensitivity in official communications. The mistake has prompted calls for more stringent checks and a deeper understanding of local heritage by state organisations. As Malaysia continues to celebrate its national milestones, ensuring that such errors are avoided will be crucial in preserving the integrity and pride associated with these events.

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