The fate of a controversial panda mural in Malaysia’s Penang state hangs in the balance as local authorities review an application to preserve the artwork. The mural, featuring a panda riding a scooter, was added to an existing artwork at Chew Jetty by a Chinese artist known as Shen Shishi, or Shi Shi. While the unauthorized addition has become a popular attraction, it also sparked debate and prompted the city council to issue a removal notice.
The unexpected addition of the panda mural at Chew Jetty, a bustling tourist destination, has attracted even more visitors. However, the artwork also drew criticism online, with some accusing the artist of defacing the original mural. Despite the controversy, the house owner expressed support for the new addition and hoped to keep it, leading to the application for its legalization.
The Removal Notice and Subsequent Application
On November 13, the Penang Island City Council’s (MBPP) Heritage Conservation Department issued a notice to the building owner, ordering the removal and repainting of the wall at Chew Jetty, a designated part of George Town’s Unesco World Heritage site. The notice also included orders to remove other unapproved murals in the area.
Mayor A. Rajendran confirmed that the council had received an application to preserve the panda mural and that the matter is currently under review by the Public Art Review Panel (PARP), operating under the George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI). “Once MBPP receives feedback from PARP, we will decide on the next course of action,” Rajendran stated.
Efforts to Legalize the Mural
Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, with support from the offices of Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying and Berapit assemblyman Heng Lee Lee, along with several city councilors, have assisted the building owner in submitting the application to obtain permits for the murals.
Public Art Guidelines and Evaluation
According to GTWHI, public art encompasses any artwork created for display in public spaces. The PARP evaluates all mural proposals within the World Heritage site, rejecting any work that detracts from George Town’s outstanding universal value. The panel’s decision will be crucial in determining the fate of the panda mural.
The Artist and Other Murals
Shen Shishi, the artist behind the panda mural, is also believed to have painted similar panda figures at other locations in Penang, including Butterworth. The prevalence of these unauthorized artworks adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
Chew Jetty: A Historic Landmark
Chew Jetty, established in the 19th century by Chinese immigrants from Fujian province, is one of the last surviving clan jetties in George Town. It is an integral part of Penang’s heritage conservation plan. The stilt houses and narrow wooden walkways of Chew Jetty attract thousands of visitors each month, making it a significant cultural and tourist site.
Key Considerations in the Decision-Making Process
The Public Art Review Panel (PARP) faces the difficult task of balancing artistic expression with the need to preserve George Town’s historical integrity. Several factors will likely influence their decision:
Impact on the Heritage Site: The primary concern is whether the panda mural detracts from the outstanding universal value of George Town as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The panel will assess the mural’s aesthetic compatibility with the surrounding environment and its potential to disrupt the historical narrative of the area.
Public Opinion: While not the sole determining factor, public opinion will likely play a role in the decision. The mural’s popularity among tourists and the support from the house owner could sway the panel’s opinion.
Artistic Merit: The panel will also consider the artistic merit of the mural itself. While the addition was unauthorized, the panel may recognize the artist’s skill and the potential for the mural to contribute to the area’s artistic landscape.
Precedent: The decision on the panda mural could set a precedent for future public art installations in George Town. The panel will need to consider the long-term implications of their decision and ensure that it aligns with the city’s overall heritage conservation goals.
Possible Outcomes
Several outcomes are possible as the Public Art Review Panel deliberates on the fate of the panda mural:
Approval: The panel could approve the mural, allowing it to remain in its current location. This outcome would likely be contingent on certain conditions, such as ensuring that the mural is properly maintained and that it does not negatively impact the surrounding environment.
Conditional Approval: The panel could approve the mural with modifications. This could involve altering the design, changing the location, or adding additional elements to better integrate it into the heritage site.
Rejection: The panel could reject the application, ordering the removal of the mural. This outcome would likely be based on the panel’s assessment that the mural detracts from the outstanding universal value of George Town.
Relocation: The panel could suggest the relocation of the mural to another location within George Town or elsewhere in Penang. This would allow the artwork to be preserved while minimizing its impact on the heritage site.
The final decision rests with the MBPP, which will consider the feedback from the PARP before making a final determination. The fate of the panda on the scooter remains uncertain, highlighting the complex interplay between art, heritage, and public opinion in a historic city.
