Welcoming Message from Dato’ Seri Khoo Keat Siew

The Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, the most well known amongst the clan associations in Penang is launching its Website in keeping with the developments of the Information Age. Although the Kongsi is deeply rooted in its traditions and historical past, the Board of Trustees of the Kongsi is acutely aware of the need to keep pace with the technological advances in the world today.

I therefore consider it a great privilege to write this Message considering the significance of the occasion. With this Website, net surfers will be able to gain access to information concerning The Kongsi, such as the clan ancestral village in China and how and under what circumstances The Khoo clan association was formed in Penang. Those bearing the surname “Khoo” will most certainly want to study the genealogical chart to discover whether they are members of the clan.

The recent publication of the book “The Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi – the history and architecture” is another conscious effort on the part of the Trustees to place the Kongsi on the world map.

The Khoo Kongsi clan house reputedly known as “The Heritage Jewel of Penang” is a major attraction in Penang. An average of 6,000 tourists locally and from all over the world visit the clan house monthly. The present clan house which was rebuilt in 1902 after the original clan house was mysteriously burnt down in 1901 is considered to be the most beautiful clan house in the region. Constructed by master craftsmen from China, its wooden beams are covered by delicate paintings and its granite pillars are sculptured with intricate designs.

The Khoo Kongsi which is sited in Cannon Square is at the heart of the heritage enclave bordered by Armenian, Beach and Acheen Streets, The recent restoration of the Khoo clan house took 2 years and was completed in October 2001. It opened its doors to the public in August 2002 with the addition of a museum at its basement.

The clan house is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Should you visit the Khoo Kongsi, we hope it will be an enriching experience to you.