Top 10 Traditional Handicraft Stores in George Town
George Town, Penang, is a city steeped in heritage and culture. Its streets are filled with colonial architecture, bustling markets, and artisanal shops that preserve Malaysia’s traditional crafts. For travelers and collectors, visiting these handicraft stores is a must. From batik and Nyonya beaded shoes to rattan furniture and handmade paper, each store tells a story. Here’s a curated guide to the top 10 traditional handicraft stores in George Town.
1. Seang Hin Leong Rattan & Bamboo Crafts
Seang Hin Leong is a fifth-generation rattan and bamboo craft store on Beach Street, George Town. It specializes in handmade furniture, baskets, birdcages, and toys. Recognized as a ‘Living Heritage of Penang’, it preserves traditional weaving techniques passed down for generations.
Address: 164A Lebuh Campbell, 10100 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: Facebook Page
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Why Visit: Witness authentic rattan craftsmanship, support a heritage business, and experience traditional weaving methods. Perfect for collectors and culture enthusiasts.
Highlights: Handwoven furniture, decorative baskets, and birdcages. Each item is meticulously crafted, showcasing generations of expertise.
Shopping Experience: Explore a rustic workshop and interact with artisans who continue age-old weaving techniques.
2. Rozana’s Batik Fine Heart Gallery & Store
Rozana’s Batik Fine Heart Gallery is a boutique on Acheh Street run by Malaysian artist Rozana Mohamed. The store offers personalized batik clothing, accessories, and paintings, along with interactive workshops.
Address: Lebuh Acheh, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: Facebook Page
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM; Closed on Sundays
Why Visit: Create custom batik art, learn the wax-resist dyeing technique, and take home a unique piece. Perfect for those seeking hands-on cultural experiences.
Highlights: Batik clothing, scarves, paintings, and workshop opportunities. The shop also displays inspiring contemporary batik designs.
Shopping Experience: Engage in interactive batik painting sessions and purchase unique handcrafted items.
3. Tan Kok Oo Beaded Shoes
Tan Kok Oo on Armenian Street is famous for traditional Nyonya beaded shoes, or “kasut manek.” Each shoe is handcrafted, reflecting intricate Peranakan artistry.
Address: 25, Lebuh Armenian, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: Penang Directory
Opening Hours: Thursday–Tuesday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Closed on Wednesdays
Why Visit: See rare Nyonya beadwork, order custom designs, and explore Peranakan heritage through footwear. A must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
Highlights: Exquisite beaded shoes crafted with precision, showcasing traditional motifs and patterns.
Shopping Experience: Watch artisans at work, appreciate detailed craftsmanship, and collect one-of-a-kind shoes.
4. Heong Giap Paper & Stationery
Heong Giap Paper & Stationery on Lebuh Melayu is a historic shop offering handmade paper, traditional stationery, and calligraphy supplies. It has served artists and collectors for decades.
Address: 16-18, Lebuh Melayu, 10100 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: Heong Giap Official Site
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Closed on Sundays
Why Visit: Explore rare paper products, stationery, and calligraphy tools that preserve Penang’s artistic traditions.
Highlights: Handmade paper, writing instruments, and artistic supplies. Each product represents traditional Malaysian craftsmanship.
Shopping Experience: Perfect for artists, collectors, and anyone who appreciates high-quality stationery.
5. Batek-Lah Collection
Batek-Lah Collection on Jalan Transfer specializes in traditional and modern batik clothing and accessories, reflecting Malaysian heritage.
Address: No. 158, Jalan Transfer, 10050 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: Batek-Lah Official Site
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Why Visit: Purchase authentic batik pieces blending tradition with modern fashion. A must for culture lovers and fashion enthusiasts.
Highlights: Batik scarves, clothing, bags, and fabrics, all designed with traditional motifs.
Shopping Experience: Browse curated batik collections and find items perfect for gifts or personal style.
6. 14 Living Story
14 Living Story is a boutique on Lebuh Armenian that celebrates local artisans, offering handmade home décor, gifts, and handicrafts.
Address: 14, Lebuh Armenian, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: 14 Living Story
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Why Visit: Discover unique handicrafts that combine traditional and contemporary designs.
Highlights: Handmade décor, unique gifts, and creative products that represent Penang’s culture.
Shopping Experience: Enjoy a boutique shopping environment perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
7. TIMURA Souvenir Store
TIMURA Souvenir Store on Lebuh Victoria focuses on eco-friendly and locally made handicrafts, promoting sustainable shopping while highlighting Penang culture.
Address: 174, Lebuh Victoria, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: TIMURA Official Site
Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Why Visit: Support local artisans, explore eco-conscious products, and bring home culturally meaningful souvenirs.
Highlights: Sustainable crafts, handmade gifts, and culturally inspired items.
Shopping Experience: Browse thoughtfully curated products while learning about local craftsmanship.
8. Little Penang Street Market
The Little Penang Street Market is a monthly market featuring local artists, craftsmen, and performers, creating a lively cultural experience.
Address: George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: Little Penang Official Site
Opening Hours: Last Sunday of every month, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Why Visit: Experience local arts, crafts, and cultural performances in a vibrant outdoor market.
Highlights: Handmade jewelry, batik clothing, paintings, home décor, and live performances.
Shopping Experience: Interact directly with artisans and discover unique products unavailable elsewhere.
9. Seng Lee Rattan & Furniture
Seng Lee Rattan & Furniture on Hutton Lane offers handcrafted rattan furniture and décor, blending traditional skills with modern aesthetics.
Address: 122-G, Hutton Lane, 10050 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: Seng Lee on GTWHI
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Why Visit: Find beautiful, functional rattan furniture that reflects Penang’s artisanal heritage.
Highlights: Chairs, tables, storage solutions, and decorative pieces, all handcrafted.
Shopping Experience: Explore unique home décor items that combine style and tradition.
10. Shoe Maker (Nyonya Beaded Shoes)
This shop specializes in traditional Nyonya beaded shoes, preserving Peranakan heritage with intricate beadwork.
Address: 4, Lebuh Armenian, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Website: Penang Directory
Opening Hours: Monday–Tuesday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Closed on Wednesdays
Why Visit: Own a piece of cultural history and observe the rare art of Nyonya beadwork.
Highlights: Unique designs, intricate patterns, and traditional craftsmanship.
Shopping Experience: Watch artisans carefully crafting each pair and select bespoke items.
Conclusion
Visiting George Town’s handicraft stores is more than shopping—it’s a cultural journey. Each store preserves traditional skills, showcases local artistry, and offers authentic souvenirs. From batik and rattan to Nyonya beaded shoes, these shops provide an immersive experience into Penang’s rich heritage.
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