Juniper
Big Bad Wolf Books officially opened its Penang 2026 edition yesterday at Level 4, Gurney Paragon Mall, bringing over a million books to the island during the Chinese New Year festive season. The 11-day sale was officiated by YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy.
Marking its sixth return to Penang, the internationally recognised book sale positions itself as more than a retail event — serving as a festive cultural attraction that complements the state’s vibrant Chinese New Year tourism landscape.
In his officiating speech, YB Wong Hon Wai highlighted the importance of large-scale cultural retail events in strengthening Penang’s tourism and creative economy ecosystem. “Tourism today is about creating diverse and meaningful experiences. Big Bad Wolf reflects how retail, education and culture can come
together to create positive economic and social impact. Events like this attract families, students and visitors from within and beyond the state while reinforcing Penang’s commitment to lifelong learning and
creativity.”
Held during a peak travel period, the Penang edition is expected to draw thousands of visitors daily, including domestic tourists spending the Chinese New Year holidays on the island. Beyond traditional cultural attractions, the event offers visitors a different festive experience — access to affordable books across diverse genres that may not be easily available in their home countries.
A Festive Opening Ceremony
The launch ceremony featured a traditional lion dance performance and lou sang session symbolising prosperity, unity, and abundance for the year ahead. Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, festive angpao packets were distributed to visitors who witnessed the opening ceremony. The event also marked the first-ever appearance of the Big Bad Wolf mascot in Penang, delighting families and children in attendance.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Puan Norlina binti Ahmad, Director of the Penang State Library; Ms. Khor Tze Ming, Executive Director of Hunza Properties Bhd; Ms. Karen Sim, Marketing & Communication Manager of G Hotel Group; Ms. Anne Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Anovia Banquet Art Centre; as well as delegates from Han Chiang University College of Communication.
Over a Million Books Across All Genres
Running from 26 February to 8 March 2026, from 10:00am to 10:00pm daily, the sale features over a million books spanning children’s titles, fiction, non-fiction, business, self-help, educational materials, and more — offered at heavily discounted prices as part of Big Bad Wolf Books’ ongoing mission to make reading accessible to all.
As part of its on-ground engagement initiatives, visitors can participate in the Wolfie Lucky Draw Campaign, featuring prizes including:
- Apple iPad 2025 (A16 Chip) – Grand Prize
- 2D1N Stay in Deluxe Room at G Hotel Kelawai
- Dining and Afternoon Tea Vouchers
- Big Bad Wolf Cash Vouchers
Additional promotions include:
- RM15 Rebate for Next-Day Returning Customers
- 5% Discount for Students & Educators
- Weekday Golden Hour Flash Deals
- G Hotel Group Staff & Guest Benefits – 5% OFF
The lucky draw campaign runs until 7 March 2026, with the Grand Prize announcement taking place on the same day.
Strengthening Tourism, Hospitality and Education Synergy
The collaboration between Big Bad Wolf Books, hospitality partners, higher education institutions, and the Penang State Library reflects a growing synergy between private initiatives and public stakeholders in cultivating a vibrant knowledge-driven economy.
By integrating reading, retail, tourism, and community engagement during one of Malaysia’s most significant festive periods, Big Bad Wolf Books Penang 2026 reinforces the state’s position as a dynamic cultural and experiential destination.
Event Details
Event Date: 26 February – 8 March 2026
Event Time: 10:00am – 10:00pm
Event Location: Level 4, Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang
For updates and exclusive sneak peeks, follow Big Bad Wolf Books on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bbwbooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigbadwolfbooks/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigbadw
