Celebration 100 Years of Penang Adventist Hospital
Written by Adrian Cheah and Josephine Choo
Cover design and book layout by Adrian Cheah
Designing a 204-Page Book Celebrating a Century of Healing and Care
Taking the Challenge
When the Penang Adventist Hospital 100th Anniversary book project came to me, I was tasked with designing the publication, while Josephine Choo was responsible for researching, collating information, and writing the stories that would take readers on an epic journey through a century of healing and care.
The initial structure of the book was outlined early on, and while the hospital’s 50th anniversary publication provided a useful foundation, it quickly became clear that this project required a fresh perspective. Far more research, deeper interviews, and thoughtful narrative construction were needed to do justice to a hundred years of history.
As the project progressed, I stepped in to co-write the book. Delivering a quality publication was my responsibility, and I could not allow it to fall short. I committed myself fully to the work, while continuing to lead the design and visual direction of the book.
Collaboration and Contribution
I am grateful to Josephine Choo for all her help especially on the initial draft of the book as well as running and writing the interviews for Chapter 8, Voices of the People. She captured personal stories from staff, patients, and partners, ensuring these voices were preserved. Her contributions added heart and immediacy to the book, giving life to the human side of a century-long journey.
I was also fortunate to work closely with Raymond Chee, the hospital’s Marketing Communications Executive, who coordinated photographs, supplied essential information, and facilitated access to the various hospital departments. He was a true star, and without his dedication and support, this book would have been nearly impossible.
The rigorous reviews and guidance from Dr Raymond Tan Kheng Soon, Person-In-Charge of the publication, ensured that the book met the hospital’s standards and expectations.
This was a collaborative effort, made possible by the commitment of everyone who contributed their time, expertise, and trust to the process. Looking back now, I realise how deeply blessed I was to have been supported, encouraged, and guided by so many people throughout this journey.
Research, Writing, and Rewriting
I immersed myself in archival material, old press clippings, institutional records, and everything I could access. Each chapter required careful planning: presenting historical milestones accurately, giving depth to the early years on Muntri Street, exploring the history of 465 Burmah Road, and tracing the hospital’s growth from a purpose-driven mission clinic to a modern healthcare institution.
I also proposed including the full spectrum of the hospital’s year-long centenary celebrations. This required waiting for all events to conclude, documenting and photographing them, and writing new material to reflect these moments. The decision extended the production timeline and added further rounds of revision, but it allowed the book to become more comprehensive and complete in its narrative. I am grateful that the hospital supported this approach.
Designing with Purpose
Designing a visually stunning book that also carries substance and heart was as much a challenge as writing it. Every page, image, margin, and typeface choice was made to support the story. I wanted readers to feel the history, the humanity, and the vision of the hospital as they turned each page. Many late nights were spent balancing narrative, visuals, and flow, ensuring the book was not only beautiful but meaningful.
The Launch and Book Release
When the Penang Adventist Hospital 100th Anniversary Commemorative Book was finally launched, it was indeed an affirming moment. The launch took place on 16 December 2025 and marked a meaningful occasion of reflection and gratitude as the hospital unveiled the publication that chronicles the hospital’s century of healing and caring. The event brought together leaders, staff, supporters, and friends of the hospital to witness a significant milestone.
After extensive review, rewriting, and polishing, the launch marked the culmination of nearly two years of work. I think only Raymond Chee and I know the amount of hours spent on its creation. It is a hardcover book I am truly proud of, and I hope that readers today, and in future, will be able to walk through the hospital's momentous journey that has been preserved for posterity.
Copies of the commemorative book were made available for purchase beginning 15 January 2026 at Adventist Bakery for RM88. This allowed friends, family, and supporters to own a piece of the hospital’s legacy and share it with others.
Reflections
Looking back, this journey was as much about personal growth as it was about creating a publication. I discovered more about my ability to step back, make decisions under pressure, and expand my skills in writing and design. I learnt to balance patience with persistence, creativity with rigour, and heart with professionalism.
In the end, I hold in my hands a hardcover book that tells an extraordinary story, and deep within my heart is the assurance that I am capable of far more than I ever imagined. It has been an extraordinary journey, one that has helped me grow in countless ways. Life is indeed full of possibilities if only we seize the moment to create something great.
-------------------------------------
Written by Adrian Cheah
© All rights reserved
16 December 2025
Celebration 100 Years of Penang Adventist Hospital
By Adrian Cheah and Josephine Choo
December 2025, Penang Adventist Hospital
Hardcover. 24.0 cm x 28.5 cm, 204 pages
Language: English
Illustrated throughout with over 770 photographs and illustrations
Genre: Non-fiction, history
Price: RM88.00
Available at the Adventist Bakery
Limited copies only
-------------------------------------
About the Authors
Adrian Cheah and Raymond Chee (in dark blue) with the commemorative book.
Adrian Cheah is a Penangite, graphic designer, photographer, and storyteller, passionate about capturing and sharing stories through words, images, and design. He is the founder of ACEK Creative Solutions (formerly Neo Sentuhan), where he has spent over three decades helping clients bring their visions to life—from books and exhibitions to marketing campaigns and events.
Adrian has designed several notable books, including Just for the Love of It—Penang’s Popular Music 1930s–1960s, Never Forgetting Balik Pulau, Pritchard’s of Penang: Enterprise, Secession, and Murder, Penang Confidential, Timeless Penang: Tradition in Transition, and The Bungalows of Penang Hill. His work combines careful research, visual storytelling, and creative design to celebrate culture, heritage, and community.
Beyond design, Adrian is an avid photographer and member of the Society of Photographers Penang, with work exhibited locally and internationally. He is also active in community initiatives, supporting organisations such as Asia Community Services, Women’s Centre for Change, Charis Hospice, and REACh, among others.
A lifelong explorer, Adrian travels extensively to capture stories, from the temples of Angkor Wat and Borobudur to the landscapes of Europe, Asia, and beyond. Through all his creative endeavours, he seeks to inspire, preserve, and share moments of beauty, culture, and human connection.
For more of his work, visit: www.adriancheah.com
Josephine Choo worked as a teacher, administrator and freelance English editor. However, writing short stories and articles was always a fulfilling past-time for her. For 30 years, she and Adrian Cheah have collaborated on various projects.