The social media showcase overwhelmingly received a response on one of the highlights of the George Town Festival (GTF) broadcast live via Facebook on July 7.

In a statement, state executive councilor for Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Heritage, Yeoh Soon Hin said the special virtual art and a cultural programme called “Absolute Penang” had reached out to 44,000 Facebook users, received 12,000 viewers and was shared 230 times.

“As the nation adjusts to the new norm during the COVID-19 pandemic, the GTF is taking the festival online (this year),” he said.

He further mentioned that in the near future GTF initiatives, including online exhibits, conferences and seminars will be added and a bonus screening will be held on 26 July.

“The festival continues to make arts accessible to everyone – from the festival-goers to the art communities and the general public, regardless of age, ethnicity, or background – while re-inventing the festival experience to create a never-before-seen virtual experience,” he added.