THE Penang International Food Festival 2024 @ Tanjong delivered a tantalising mix of flavours, cultures and experiences.
Held along three of George Town’s oldest streets, it allowed thousands of visitors to feel the city’s historical charm as they enjoyed delicious treats and live entertainment.
For many, the fun was going from stall to stall to try the diverse offerings from over 100 vendors, including local hawkers, entrepreneurs, food trucks, cafes, restaurants and hotels.
Beach Street brimmed with Penang’s iconic street food like satay, char kuey teow, nasi lemak, laksa, pasembur, mee sotong, mee jawa, apom, roti canai, dim sum and kambing golek.
The rumble of dhol drums spicing up the atmosphere.
There were also wide varieties of Thai, Indonesian, Japanese and South Korean delicacies alongside refreshing beverages.
Church Street was the non-halal tribute with everything from roast pork to sausages, while Bishop Street was the dessert zone – loaded with pastries, waffles, ice cream among others.
Among those spotted at the two-day event were English tourists Rafe Bowen, 22, and Georgina Belton, 23, who arrived from Cameron Highlands.
“We heard about the food festival and thought it’d be something cool to check out,” said Bowen, a biology student.
“We’ve only had some sushi and teh tarik so far, but they were amazing.
“It’s great to have so many options in one place. It makes you want to try different things, and we’ll definitely go get more.”
Sisters Elizabeth, Esther and Michelle enjoying a relaxing evening of food exploration.
Sisters Elizabeth Loh, 24, Esther, 29, and Michelle, 30, had a good time walking around, munching on food, and taking in the vibrant multi-cultural performances.
“Michelle just returned from Kuala Lumpur for Elizabeth’s graduation photo shoot,” said Esther, a teacher.
“We’ve been to the festival many times and always found it a relaxing, enjoyable experience.
“This time around, we only had corn dogs and coconut ice cream shakes, but it was a wonderful family moment together.”
Crowds thronging Beach Street during the Penang International Food Festival @ Tanjong. — Photos: KT GOH/The Star
Satay vendor Noor Annisa Mohd Noor, 38, gave the event the thumbs up.
She said it was an invaluable platform for small entrepreneurs to grow their customer base.
“I joined about 12 years ago when my daughter was little.
“We’ve been here every year since, and now she’s a young adult.
Vendor Noor Annisa grilling satay over charcoal. — Photos: KT GOH/The Star
“Compared to my usual sales at night markets, I can sell up to twice the amount of satay here,” she added.
“But above all, it’s heartwarming to see visitors of all races coming to enjoy delicious food.”
The food festival was organised by the service centre of Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, with the support of the Penang state government, Penang Global Tourism and other key partners.
“It showcases Penang’s finest flavours and not only reaffirms our status as the food capital of Malaysia, but also strengthens our place on the global food map,” said Lim.
A lion dance performance on stilts. — Photos: KT GOH/The Star
“Food tourism is central to our economy. It supports local businesses and vendors whose hard work sustains the vibrant culture that makes the state unique.
“Penang’s food is more than just great flavours. Each dish reflects the traditions that define our nation and the harmony and respect shared among our diverse communities,” she said.
Lim, who is also Deputy Finance Minister, launched the event by stir-frying a plate of char kuey teow under the guidance of local culinary celebrity Chef Zam.
State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said this year’s choice of venue added another dimension to the charm.
Hotel staff serving noodle dishes.
“Surrounded by historic architecture and iconic street views, it offered visitors a deeper connection to Penang’s cultural roots and highlights the city’s broader heritage and history,” he said.
Also present were Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang and Penang Island mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.
The live performances included lion dances on stilts, multicultural drums, fire juggling, magic shows and live music, as well as modern and cultural dances.
Those who missed the event last weekend can look forward to its second leg, PIFF 2024 @ Batu Kawan, happening today and tomorrow.
To be held at Design Village, it will run from 5pm to 11pm on both days and feature an equally expansive line-up of offerings.
Check out its Facebook account @penanginternationalfoodfestival for details or Instagram @penanginternationalfoodfest
