GEORGE TOWN – Since the 1970s, Penangites have grown up with Gama, an iconic mall facing the Magazine Circus, which went into the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) today for being the first registered and oldest supermarket and departmental store in the country.
The recognition was supposed to be given in 2020 when Gama celebrated its 53rd anniversary, but was delayed due to Covid-19 restrictions.
During the presentation ceremony by MBR today, Gama was presented with the original recognition, recognising 53 years in business before they were surprised with the latest plaque indicating an updated recognition of 55 years in operation.
MBR chief operating officer Christopher Wong Hong Wai applauded the establishment’s long-term commitment to serving the public as it is usually difficult for commercial enterprises to survive many generations given the economy’s ups and downs throughout the years.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was in attendance, also reminisced about when Gama was still new and pioneered the first mall concept, with air conditioning and elevators.
It drew crowds who wanted to escape the heat outdoors.
“They first opened on the first floor of Chowrasta Market in 1967. At that time they were called Pulau Pinang Supermarket.
“They were the reason why the oldest wet market had an elevator,” he said.
Gama chief executive officer Ng Yee Mai said in her speech that the store has many loyal customers and long-serving staff.
This has created a unique atmosphere where cashiers greet customers by their names.
Kedah-born Chang Cheng Guan founded the country’s first supermarket and departmental store in 1967, earning him the nickname “Mr Supermart”.
Due to overwhelming public response, the store took a huge step forward on December 8, 1980, and moved to the seven-storey building at the busy junction along Jalan Datuk Keramat. – The Vibes, May 22, 2022
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