THE Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) is organising a logo design competition to mark the 100th anniversary of its Penang Hill funicular system.

PHC general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng said the ‘Centenary Logo Design Competition’ is part of PHC’s extended series of events leading up to the Penang Hill funicular system’s 100th anniversary on Oct 21 next year.

“The logo contest is open to all Malaysians aged 18 and above from today (Sept 6) until Oct 6 this year.

“The centenary logo must depict a solid visual or components to commemorate the heritage and contributions of the Penang Hill funicular that bring about the socio-economic transformation of Penang Hill and its surrounding areas.

“The winner will bring home RM500 cash, a funicular pass with one-year validity, and limited-edition gifts. There are also five consolation prizes of RM200 cash and gifts.

“For further enquiries, contact PHC at 04-828 8880 or email to [email protected],” Cheok told a press conference, announcing the competition in Komtar today.

Also present was Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

Cheok said the Penang Hill funicular system’s 100th anniversary aimed at promoting the history, cultural heritage and biodiversity of Penang Hill, which is in line with its status as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve.

“With the theme ‘Penang Hill Railway: A Centenary Celebration (1923-2023)’, PHC will be organising interesting activities to celebrate the momentous milestone.

“We will host a series of exciting events in 2023 to share with people from all walks of life, especially Penangites. We want to share the milestones and challenges of the last 100 years while looking forward to future opportunities.

“The Penang Hill funicular system’s centenary celebration will include various educational programmes and webinars, mobile exhibitions and others relating to the invaluable historical and natural heritage of Penang Hill to encourage more people to appreciate its uniqueness.

“Our signature events which have grown from strength to strength over the years, like the Penang Hill Festival, Penang Hill Forest Challenge and Trash Free Hill, will also be organised in sync with the centenary celebration theme next year.

“Additional details regarding the activities and programmes in conjunction with the centennial celebration will be available in the coming months. Please stay tuned to PHC’s social media and website for updates,” he added.

Chow said he was glad to know that the Penang Hill funicular system is celebrating its centenary since it was founded on Oct 21, 1923.

“The Penang Hill funicular started in 1923 and has certainly remained one of Penang’s most well-known heritage icons.

“What started as a simple mode of transportation to the hilltop for fresh air and convalescence, has now become a celebrated landmark for both Penang and the nation.

“While the funicular coach may have changed over the years, the incredible engineering works that made it all possible have remained timeless over the century and this is truly worthy of a grand celebration,” he said.

Chow also explained some interesting facts about the Penang Hill funicular system.

“This funicular railway is the only one of its kind in Malaysia. It has one of the steepest tunnel tracks in the world and has transported over 47 million visitors, including local and international tourists, residents and the local community since 1924.

“This remarkable mode of transportation has truly transformed the hill. It has spawned the socio-economic progress and eco-tourism on the hill as well as the surrounding areas of Penang Hill such as Air Itam and Air Putih.

“The hill has also become a favourite spot for the community to carry out healthy activities such as hiking.

“Thus, in the spirit of LovePENANG, I urge everyone to show their love to one of Penang’s most loved icons and to support its centenary celebration.

“Next year will be an exciting year on the hill. So, join us as we celebrate the Penang Hill funicular system’s 100th anniversary in 2023!” he concluded.

Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi