GEORGE TOWN: Trishaw riders here literally gave 30 artists the best of both worlds – the opportunity to sketch the state’s iconic three-wheeler and tour the heritage enclave.

       Chinese brush painting teacher Sim See San, 64, whose last ride was some 50 years ago, said he was excited sketching and painting the trishaws for the first time.

       “Today is memorable as I get to sketch trishaws as well as ride on them after that.

       “The grey building in the background enhances the colourful trishaws.

       “It took me about an hour to sketch and paint the drawing,” he said, adding that he was happy as the ride brought back many fond memories.

       Retired architect Lee Chin Huat, 68, was happy that he could enjoy his hobby while helping to uplift the trishaw riders.

       “It has been many years since I took this transport.

       “I am happy to be able to help the riders whose business was badly affected during the various phases of the movement control order.

       “It took me around half an hour to sketch my rider as an appreciation of his hard work,” he said.

       Another artist, KK Chin, 70, said trishaw is a special icon of Penang and he was thankful to have the opportunity to draw it live.

       “As trishaw riders are always on the go, I have taken their photos and practised drawing them at home,” he said when met at Gat Lebuh Chulia here.

       Urban Sketcher co-founder Khoo Cheang Jin, 59, said the 30 members comprised teenagers and senior citizens.

       “It’s nice that we can give a boost to trishaw business through our hobby.

       “It is usually difficult to sketch trishaws as they are mobile.

       “Some members are drawing the icon for the first time, and get to experience riding the trishaw after that,” he said.

       Trishaw rider Tan Joon Chow, 74, said he was grateful for the initiative.

       “During the Covid-19 pandemic, we had no income at all but there were kind people who gave us food and angpow.

       “Sometimes I had to borrow money from a friend to buy food,” he recalled.

       Since April 1 when many restrictions have been relaxed, Tan said business had picked up and even spiked during the Hari Raya holidays.

       “I hope that business will continue to be good and there will be more tourists coming to Penang,” he said.

       Ride of Hope coordinator Priscilla Ho said the event was to promote the life of Penang’s resilient senior trishaw riders.

       “We also hope the local community will take trishaw rides to support these aging men, many of whom are still struggling to make ends meet.

       “Even in their twilight years, they have to do this tough job,” said Ho, the event organiser who started Ride of Hope with five others in aid of trishaw riders last year.