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.

George Town Literary Festival 2025 

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, except for workshops and select events.

Explore the full programme breakdown on the official George Town Literary Festival website.

Programme at a glance:

30 November

7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Special event: GTLF Closing Performance: Rhythms of Return

Location

Cheah Kongsi

The festival’s closing brings together poetry, music, and movement. paul catafago opens with a new poem, followed by a stirring dabkeh performance led by Ahmed Masoud alongside Luvenia Kalia and Mumtaz Begum Backer of the School of the Arts, USM. This collective act of rhythm and remembrance ends the festival on a note of resonance and shared energy.