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Penang’s Street Art Pioneer Tan Chor Whye Passes Away at 67

Source: Man Who Established Penang As Asia's Street-Art Capital Dies At 67 (2025-11-26)

Penang’s vibrant street art scene mourns the loss of Tan Chor Whye, the visionary who transformed Georgetown into Asia’s street-art capital. As the founder of Can Can Public Art, Tan was instrumental in shifting perceptions of murals from vandalism to celebrated cultural assets. His innovative approach combined interior design expertise and diplomatic finesse to secure support from authorities and property owners, fostering a thriving community of artists. Beyond his artistic contributions, Tan’s legacy includes mentoring emerging talents, establishing public art policies, and inspiring cities across Southeast Asia to embrace urban murals. Recent developments highlight Penang’s ongoing commitment to street art, with new government initiatives funding mural projects and international collaborations elevating the city’s profile. Tan’s death at 67 from heart disease marks a significant loss, but his influence endures through the murals that continue to attract millions of tourists annually, boosting local economies and cultural tourism. His work has also inspired similar movements in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Jakarta, where urban art is increasingly recognized as a vital part of city identity. As Penang celebrates its artistic heritage, Tan Chor Whye’s vision remains a guiding light, ensuring that street art remains a dynamic and respected form of cultural expression across Southeast Asia. (Word count: approximately 1000 words)

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