KUALA LUMPUR – The country’s leading national heritage non-governmental organisation has deplored the Penang Island City Council’s (MBPP) for approving the planned demolition of the historically significant Rex Cinema in George Town, noting the building’s special architectural and social attributes.
In a statement, Badan Warisan Malaysia (BWM) expressed strong support for the heritage and conservation groups in Penang opposing the move, and lauded their great efforts to preserve the historic heritage environment of George Town.
“This 84 year-old Art Deco cinema possesses architectural, social, cultural, and heritage significance not only for Penangites, but for all Malaysians.
“It is imperative that we conserve and protect Rex Cinema for future generations to enjoy,” it said, stressing that preserving only the facade will not be enough.
“The Rex Cinema was built with significant interior Art Deco features and details, and these should be maintained. Art Deco architecture is much appreciated and celebrated all over the world.”
The statement was signed by BWM president Lim Wei-Ling and the NGO’s council.
They noted that the approval was given despite MBPP Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang having been reported by the media on January 5 as saying that flaws in the 2030 draft Penang Island local plan would be rectified.
The 84-year-old theatre, famous for its Art Deco architectural style, was highlighted on social media over Chinese New Year by activists who said it would make way for yet another luxury condominium project.
It was designed by Charles Geoffrey Boutcher (1884-1964), a London-born architect and partner of the architectural firm Stark & McNeill in Malaya. His other recognisable projects include Kedah House in Penang and Zahir Mosque in Alor Star.
The BWM council also lamented that the recent demolition of a pre-war bungalow at Clove Hall Road, which is in proximity to Rex Cinema, was another irreplaceable loss of a historic piece of architecture of the island.
“We encourage MBPP to be more supportive and sensitive to preserve and protect George Town’s richly built heritage, including buildings and sites beyond the Unesco-protected boundaries,” they said, referring to the inner-city area designated by the global body as a World Heritage Site.
“It is this unique heritage that makes Penang one of the most significant places to visit in Malaysia.”
BWM stressed that cities in Malaysia like those in Penang and Melaka that have many buildings and neighbourhoods of heritage value must take the lead in preservation, conservation and other environmental matters.
“These cities must balance the old with the new and cannot always take the easy route to development. Local authorities must be proactive in these matters.” – The Vibes, January 27, 2023
