UAB Hall

For both Omar Musa and Madeleine Thien, Sabah is more than ancestry—it is a wellspring of memory and imagination that reverberates across oceans and generations. In this conversation, they reflect on how their roots in Sabah continue to shape their writing and sense of belonging. From poetry and performance to novels of history and diaspora, they explore how place endures in story, and how echoes of Sabah resound in the wider world.

Malaysia’s leading celebration of stories returns for its 15th edition! This year’s George Town Literary Festival explores Urban Myths and Memories through panels, readings, performances, and workshops featuring 37 writers and artists from 13 countries.

Malaysia’s leading celebration of stories returns for its 15th edition! This year’s George Town Literary Festival explores Urban Myths and Memories through panels, readings, performances, and workshops featuring 37 writers and artists from 13 countries.

Join us in Penang’s heritage heart for three days of conversation, creativity, and discovery. Admission is free with a Festival Pass—sign up and be part of the story.

Explore the full programme breakdown on the official George Town Literary Festival website. https://georgetownlitfest.com/festival-programme/