Penang’s reaffirms commitment to preserving heritage sites across the state

The Diocese of Penang has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving heritage sites across the state, moving beyond the borders of UNESCO World Heritage Site enclaves. Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo emphasized that heritage should be protected throughout the state, reflecting its diverse history and culture. Jagdeep visited the second phase of restoration works at the historic Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Pagar Tras, a 19th-century missionary monument and Chinese migrant history site.

The church, located along Jalan Sungai Lembu near Bukit Mertajam, stands as a majestic, roofless brick ruin and is actively being preserved by the Catholic Diocese of Penang. Jagdeep stressed that Penang's historical legacy extends beyond George Town, which is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and that the Pagar Tras church deserves preservation for future generations.

The restoration of the church aligns with the state's tourism sector strengthening efforts, with Penang pledging RM1 million towards the project. The restoration will be carried out with stringent standards, ensuring compliance with necessary technical requirements for heritage conservation. The Catholic Diocese of Penang, along with the state government and various partners, aims to transform the church into a prominent tourist attraction and pilgrimage site for the Catholic community.

The initiative, themed 'On 100 Year Trail – Pagar Tras', was launched in 2021 and includes plans for landscaping, parking facilities, informative display panels, and a dedicated viewing room showcasing artifacts salvaged from the heritage church.