GEORGE TOWN – The third phase of registration for businesses intending to take part in the RM1 million “George Town in the New Normal” project will begin on March 1.
George Town World Heritage Inc (GTWHI) general manager Ang Ming Chee in a statement today said the registration will be conducted for one and a half months, ending April 15.
“The project aims to regenerate and assist in the transition of Penang’s cultural heritage sector to the new normal.
“We have received 406 applications since the project commenced on July 8 last year. The project has three components, namely support local business, heritage repair and heritage video.
“George Town Unesco World Heritage Site building owners and tenants can apply for the remaining 118 slots under heritage repair, while cultural heritage practitioners can apply for the remaining 153 slots for heritage video,” she said, adding that the number of applications for the support local business category is unlimited.
GTWHI will also assist local businesses in digital marketing promotion.
Ang, however, said priority will be given to long-term businesses that have been operating for more than 10 years.
Some 3,000 businesses are operating within the world heritage site, and some 5,000 businesses, which are part of the site’s cultural and financial ecosystem, can participate in the project.
“We also hope to help local businesses reach new customers via a digital platform,” Ang said.
“A one-off financial reimbursement of a maximum of RM1,500 will be provided to qualified owners or tenants of heritage premises (Categories 1 and 2 as gazetted in the George Town Special Area Plan) within the world heritage site for minor repairs and maintenance.
“This includes upgrading the premises’ wiring, repainting of interior and exterior walls, vegetation removal from the facade, termite treatment and other works that are in accordance with the rules and regulations in the George Town Special Area Plan.”
GTWHI urged all those interested to register before work commences, saying that it hoped minor repairs will elevate the mood of heritage building users.
Penang-based cultural heritage practitioners, who depend on their skills, knowledge or services as the main source of income, may apply for the project’s heritage video category.
Ang said priority will be given to those who have yet to develop a digital marketing strategy, adding that each applicant must propose a video to show off their skills, knowledge or craft process.
He said GTWHI will assist shortlisted applicants on technical video-recording skills and digital media platforms.
The submitted business information and videos will be promoted on GTWHI’s website and social media channels, and successful applicants will receive an incentive of RM1,500. – The Vibes, February 26, 2021
