Khaw Sim Bee and The Na Ranong Family: A Shared History of Penang and Southern Thailand
By Clement Liang
May 2013 WINDOW INTO HISTORY
Back in the days when political boundaries were fluid, business and family ties lived a life that crossed borders, enriching both sides. Bloodlines were crossed as well, as were cultural and language barriers. For the social economy of Penang and Phuket, the Khaw clan was a central player.Penangites may recall catching a glimpse of a road sign bearing the name “Jalan Khaw Sim Bee” while passing Perak Road. This may very well be the only landmark in Penang reminding us...
Clement Liang
is an ardent researcher in the history of ethnic minorities in Penang. He has presented papers on the pre-war Japanese community, designed the German Heritage Trail and organised a Siamese Heritage Forum in 2012. He was featured in the war documentary “1941 – The Fall of Penang” by the History Channel recently. He holds positions in several NGOs including Penang Heritage Trust.
