THE Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) has been urged to draft a conservation plan for the pre-war shophouses along Jalan Tasek in Nibong Tebal, highlighting the area’s rich historical and cultural value.

Speaking at the launch of the “Discovering the Cultural Treasures of Nibong Tebal” booklet at Firefly Jetty Cafe, state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye said the town’s heritage architecture and traditions are irreplaceable and should be safeguarded for future generations.

“There are many old towns in our country where the architecture, customs, food, and traditions still reflect the past. These must be preserved so that future generations can learn and appreciate their roots,” he said.

He proposed that MBSP engage with property owners to ensure any maintenance or renovation prioritises the preservation of the buildings’ original appearance, especially in the case of the iconic pre-war shophouses lining the street.

“Urban development should not only focus on physical infrastructure. Cultural and historical preservation adds soul and vitality to a city,” he said.

The booklet launch was part of the Nibong Tebal Cultural Heritage Programme, funded by the Seberang Perai Small Town Fund. The publication documents the town’s 300-year history through stories, images, and cultural highlights.

H’ng, who is also the state assemblyman for Jawi, said the publication of the booklet is just the beginning, noting that many heritage elements in the area remain undocumented.

He called for future editions of the booklet to focus on specific themes, such as traditional pastries, local cuisine, schools, notable individuals, architecture, and cultural customs, in order to deepen public appreciation and understanding of Nibong Tebal’s heritage.

“I believe this project will reconnect us with forgotten historical narratives and leave a positive impact,” he added.

Chen Yoke Pin, senior manager of the cultural arts education organisation behind the project, said the initiative aims to make local history more engaging and accessible.

“We want to present history in a way that’s fun and approachable so that more people become curious about the stories of their hometowns,” she explained.

Chen shared that the team began fieldwork last year, meeting with community groups and elders to collect oral histories and supporting data. It took them seven months to complete the first edition of the booklet, which was published in three languages.

“We chose Nibong Tebal as a starting point because Seberang Perai deserves equal attention. This land is rich with historical treasures,” she said, hoping to see similar efforts across other parts of Seberang Perai.

Story by Edmund Lee