Penang: The words 'pendudok' (residents) and 'pendidekan' (education) displayed on the information board at the entrance to the Penang State Museum are not spelling errors, but reflect the old Malay spelling system used when the museum was opened in 1965.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai clarified that the information board was a replica of the original inscription on a commemorative plaque erected during the museum's official opening on April 14, 1965. Wong emphasized that the words displayed on the signboard are not spelling errors made during the museum upgrading works, but rather the original inscriptions preserved from the museum's inauguration.

Wong, who also serves as chairman of the Penang State Museum Board, explained that the Malay spelling system prior to the introduction of the Rumi spelling system on August 16, 1972, was different from today's system. The old spellings, based on the Za'ba spelling system, were used before standardization to the current forms. He highlighted that maintaining the original spelling aligns with the museum's role in preserving historical materials in their authentic form, including original writing, terminology, and spelling.

Wong further elaborated that the principles of 'minimal intervention' and 'authenticity' are core to artefact conservation and restoration, ensuring the preservation of historical value and integrity. He viewed the public's interest in the spelling as a positive sign, indicating engagement with historical materials and fostering educational discussions on history through the museum's exhibits.