On 17 May, an ink painting exhibition by renowned 86-year-old Malaysian artist Hon Peow was officially opened by Human Resources Minister cum Member of Parliament for Bukit Mertajam YB Sim Chee Keong, at the SGM Penang Culture Centre.

YB Sim officiated the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, accompanied by Hon Peow, SGM Penang chairperson Low Siew Kee and Penang Chinese Brush Painting Art Society president Loh Kooi Loong. YB Sim also delivered a speech, commending Hon Peow’s contributions to the field of art and praising his ability to capture the natural beauty and rhythm of life through his works.

In his speech, SGM Penang vice-chairperson Ewe Chor Huat spoke about President Ikeda’s belief in the power of art to foster human connection, noting that this philosophy has guided SGM Penang in organising its exhibitions.

Hon Peow’s art catalogue was also launched during the event. His student Tan Chin Joo introduced the catalogue, offering insights into the stories and techniques behind the featured paintings.

 A highlight of the event was a live painting demonstration by Hon Peow, performed in harmony with a guzheng performance.

The exhibition featured 36 ink paintings centred on nature, many depicting rubber plantations in Manong, Perak, where the artist grew up. As a token of appreciation, Hon Peow gifted one of his paintings to SGM. 

The exhibition ran from 17 May–1 June, attracting 1,185 visitors. On the final day, Hon Peow conducted a workshop, guiding participants in mastering the art of ink painting. Following its run in Penang, the exhibition will be held at Wisma Kebudayaan SGM from 12 July–10 August.