By UOW Malaysia 

Art, Culture & Heritage Day 2025 came alive on 4 July 2025 at UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College, held in conjunction with George Town World Heritage City Day. This vibrant, one-day celebration of cultural heritage united over 50 passionate professionals, students, and industry experts in a dynamic exchange of ideas, artistry, and community spirit.

The day began with an inspiring series of talks under the theme “Soul of Architecture & Culture”, featuring Dr Afzanizam Muhammad (Senior Lecturer, Universiti Teknologi MARA), Dr Rani Prihatmanti (Director, Centre for Creative Heritage Studies, Universitas Ciputra Surabaya), and Ms Fazlin bt. Awaludin (Program Leader & Lecturer, UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College). The energy carried into the afternoon with an engaging session by Dr Tan Chin Ling (Founder & Heritage Conservator, OriGreen Design Studio), leading into a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Ts. Vanessa Serbastian (Head of Department, Department of Built Environment, UOW Malaysia KDU Penang University College).

The panel pushed beyond traditional debates, delving into the intricate balance between preserving heritage and embracing modernity. Attendees were challenged to reimagine how conservation can thrive in a fast-changing world, gaining fresh, multi-layered perspectives on sustaining cultural values.

Closing the day on a creative high, participants joined the immersive Heritage Sketching and Painting Workshop led by IDr. Dr. Haji Othman Bin Mohd Nor. Against the charming backdrop of George Town’s historic streets, they explored heritage through the strokes of pen and brush.

By the day’s end, Art, Culture & Heritage Day 2025 had not only fostered meaningful dialogue and collaboration but also reminded everyone present that cultural heritage is not just something to preserve — it’s something to live, reinterpret, and pass on to future generations.