Five acclaimed local artists are set to make history with a massive, record-breaking feat in Penang beginning March 2017. Sponsored by Only World Group (OWG) and supported by the Penang State Government, the “World’s Tallest Mural” project will see the artists attempting to paint a colossal homage to the state and its people on the iconic Komtar tower.

During a press conference, which was held on 9 March 2017 to of cially announce this endeavour, Penang Chief Minister YAB Tuan Lim Guan Eng voiced his delight at the attempt, as it will not only place both Komtar and Penang in the international limelight, but also showcase the talents of our local artists while further revitalising this beloved landmark of Penang.

“The Penang state government is proud to support this endeavour, which will de nitely put us on the world map. But much more than that, the mural will be a visual symbol of Penang’s intrinsic strengths – our beautiful people and rich heritage, and the immense potential that lies ahead for us!” he declared.

The mural is not only set to beautify Komtar but also possibly earn it a place in the acclaimed Guinness Book of World Records.

“We hope to get the endorsement of the Guinness Book of World Records for this attempt,” said Dato’ Sri Richard Koh, the Chief Executive Officer of OWG.
“The current record-holder for this title measures 70 metres high. This mural will make full use of Komtar’s massive stature and will measure a whopping 230 metres high and 13.1 metres wide when completed!” exclaimed Dato’ Sri Richard Koh, the Chief Executive Of cer of OWG.

According to him, the project is also in line with OWG’s ongoing efforts to revitalise the state’s beloved landmark, which began with the opening of THE TOP@Komtar late last year. “In giving the three-decade- old Komtar a facelift, we’d embarked on a multi-million dollar project that resulted in this new icon, which features a multitude of rst-of-their-kind attractions for people from all walks of life. Now, with THE TOP up and going, we hope that this mural project will draw the eyes of the world toward this iconic landmark,” he elaborated.

Famed for their street art, the ve artists, namely Bibichun, The Sliz, Kangblabla, Sattama and IMMJN, were handpicked based on their extensive experience in large-scale murals, both in Malaysia as well as other places such as Shanghai, Singapore, Taiwan and the Philippines. The artists express their eagerness at working together on this project.

According to Bibichun, “We feel privileged for being selected to be part of this project. Each of us was either born in Penang or has chosen to set up base here, so we all have strong roots here. We identify strongly with Penang in one way or another and are glad to be able to do our part to help Penang shine.”
Self-taught artist The Sliz concurred. “It will be interesting to see how our different styles mesh together to create a never-seen-before masterpiece for Penang,” he added.

The World’s Tallest Mural project features Nippon Paint as Product Sponsor. According to Alex Yoong Choong Kheong, Assistant General Manager, Group Marketing of Nippon Paint Malaysia Group, “It is certainly an opportune time for Nippon Paint to partner with THE TOP@Komtar to provide a platform for our talented artists to express their creativity. Nippon Paint is continuously committed to defying conventions and breaking boundaries and we are proud that our spray paint solution, Nippon PYLOX, is able to be part of the creation of a landmark masterpiece for the vibrant state of Penang.”

The project is scheduled to take approximately four months to complete. The public may nd out more about the project and follow the progress of the mural at the website at thetop.com.my and penanghappenings.com.