Not many from the present generation will know what “pillboxes” are.

For the uninitiated, pillboxes are concrete dug-in guard posts which are equipped with loopholes through which defenders can fire weapons.

Numerous pillboxes were built by the British during World War 11 to defend against aggressors.

In order to retain the precious history behind these pillboxes, the Penang state government will take action to preserve these pillboxes for the benefit of the future generation.

On hand to visit such pillboxes in Tanjung Tokong was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Yeoh Soon Hin along with Georgetown World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee.

“The preservation and conservation of these pillboxes will be carried out by GTWHI and also conduct research so that they can become tourist attractions.“There are two pillboxes in Jalan Tokong Thai Pak Koong, Tanjung Tokong here,” said Yeoh who was on his visit yesterday.He also added that the project would involve six phases – documentation review (Phase One), appointment of a qualified conservator to prepare assessment reports (Phase Two), preparation of long-term conservation plans (Phase Three), engagement sessions (Phase Four), appointment of contractors to carry out conservation and preservation works (Phase Five) and prepare a heritage trail programme (Phase Six).

The team had completed 90% of the works under Phase One as of Feb 7, 2022.Meanwhile, Dr Ang added that there are some 14 pillboxes in Penang so far, 13 on the island and one on the mainland.Well, this is real history right at our doorstep.