The George Town Literary Festival (GTLF), Malaysia's best-known literary gathering, holds its 2026 edition from 27 to 29 November under the theme "Cosmopolises". Organised by Penang Institute, the festival looks at cities as places where languages, faiths and migrant histories meet, through literature, translation, history and food culture.
Sessions take place at two heritage venues on Gat Lebuh China: Bangunan UAB (in collaboration with Think City) and Wisma Yeap Chor Ee (with Digital Penang). More than 50 writers, poets and thinkers from 20 countries and territories are on the line-up; reported names include Muhammad Salleh, Tan Twan Eng, Alice Jolly, Asmaa Azaizeh and Ma Thida.
Expect panels, readings, book launches, workshops, performances and film screenings. The opening ceremony, "Letters of the Penang Diaspora", features letters from Penangites living abroad, and a student strand called "Languages I Live In" showcases short films and essays on language and identity. The festival will also announce its inaugural Life Achievement Prize in Literature and the Penang Monthly Short Story Prize 2026 winner.
Who is it for? Book lovers, students, writers and anyone curious about ideas. Most of the programme is free, but organisers encourage advance registration, so sign up through the official channels and plan your day around the sessions you want most.
Highlights
- 50+ writers from 20 countries and territories
- Opening: "Letters of the Penang Diaspora"
- Inaugural Life Achievement Prize in Literature
- Largely free admission
Tips
- Register in advance; popular panels fill up.
- Pair it with heritage food around Lebuh China and Lebuh Pantai between sessions.
Not yet confirmed by the organiser: ticket prices for paid workshops, registration link. We'll update this page when details are published.
How to get there
Bangunan UAB & Wisma Yeap Chor Ee, Bangunan UAB and Wisma Yeap Chor Ee, Gat Lebuh China, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang. Both venues are near the Weld Quay/Gat Lebuh China area; Rapid Penang CAT free shuttle and Weld Quay bus terminal are a short walk. Ferry passengers from Penang Sentral can walk from the ferry terminal. Open in Google Maps or open in Waze.
More festivals in Penang · What's on in George Town · What's on in Penang this month · more free things to do in Penang
Information from Penang Institute – GTLF 2026 programme highlights and line-up, The Star – Literary fest returns to George Town in November (5 Oct 2026), Penang Global Tourism event listing. Last verified .
Details change — confirm with the organiser before you go. Spotted an error? Tell us.
