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Step back in time into the world of young Anne, longing for her brother’s return.

‍As the Rising Sun Sets transports you to a period when Japanese soldiers patrolled the streets of George Town, captures were a constant threat, and everyday resources were scarce.

Through your phone via the Ceritalah app - walk, listen, and watch the story unfold as history comes to life with Anne. This immersive audio drama weaves lived experiences into a semi-fictional narrative set during one of the most testing chapters in George Town’s history.Through the eyes of a brave young girl, you encounter the resilience of the few remaining silent warriors who carry memories of a time vastly different from modern-day George Town.

Language
English (BM captions available)
Duration
1 hour - 1.5 hours
Location
George Town, Penang

The Japanese Occupation of Penang in WWII

The Japanese occupation of Penang is a compelling story of resilience, cultural shifts, and strategic importance. Located near the vital Malacca Strait, Penang was one of the first targets of Japan’s invasion in Southeast Asia—struck on December 8, 1941, just a day after Pearl Harbor.

The British evacuated in secret, leaving the island defenceless and its people to face food shortages, strict controls, and the uncertainty of life under occupation. Yet amid these hardships, Penangites showed remarkable resilience, adapting to survive one of the most turbulent chapters in the island’s history.

Don’t just take our word for it

Hear from our participants.
“Walking through the actual historical sites where these real events happened made the experience very immersive. It felt like history unfolding around me.”
Qyu
Dec 2025
“Overall, fantastic app. The voice acting was beautifully done. The historical references were eye-opening, and I loved how the story highlighted details about George Town that we normally overlook in everyday life.”
Shankar
Dec 2025
“The opening scene - looking up at the planes overhead with the sound effects surrounding us - immediately pulled me in. It truly felt like I was part of the story.”
Fiza
Jan 2026
“The story, the sound design, and the route through town were all thoughtfully crafted. The AR interactivity was especially fun — it added another layer to the experience.”
Wanida
Jan 2026
“Standing at certain spots and watching the scenes come alive gave me a powerful sense of witnessing history firsthand. The direct engagement with the sites made it unforgettable.”
Candice
Jan 2026

The Research & Story

The stories interwoven into As the Rising Sun Sets are deeply rooted in the human-centered approach of acknowledging oral history as a valuable source of information.

The team went to great lengths to self-reflect on personal family history as young Malaysians while consulting and interviewing WWII survivors in the intimate setting of their homes. The oral history accounts were supported by further research through documentary accounts, historical text, and online community forums.

The decision to follow the story through the lens of a child was informed by the collective memory of the interviewees who would have been 5-8 years old at the time. Each narrative has been thoughtfully crafted, finding the balance between creating an engaging narrative that best represents the history and honoring local accounts.

What to Expect

  • Walk the streets of George Town

    Wander through streets, alleys, and hidden corners as you follow the story across 13 stops. Each stop unveils a new part of the story, guiding you through George Town’s streets, alleys, and historic landmarks as the tale unfolds.

  • Augmented Reality installations

    At select stops, expect interactive visual experiences powered by Augmented reality technology offering an added layer of immersion and artistry.

Timing & Duration

Available Daily (Mon - Sun)

Begin with our selected half-hour session.

First session: 9:30 am
Last session: 3:00 pm

Duration

The experience is estimated to last approximately 60 minutes.

Location

The journey begins at the Pitt Street Complex along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling and concludes at Chowrasta Market, guiding you through 13 carefully curated stops.

The stops are within comfortable walking distance from each other, ensuring an engaging and seamless experience as you uncover the layers of George Town’s history.

What do you need

This is a rain-or-shine experience, so come prepared for our hot or rainy weather, and make the most of your journey through George Town’s history!

Headphones (non-noise-canceling for safety while walking)

Water to stay hydrated

A mobile phone with an active internet connection

Umbrella (for rain or shade)

Sun protection (hat and/or sunscreen)

RM3 cash for entry to a special location

Price

We provide a premium experience at a price that reflects both quality and value, allowing you to enjoy every aspect of your journey.

Benefits:

  • Full access to all 12 stops equipped with audio narration to guide you from point to point.
  • Access to 4 interactive AR installations.
  • Carefully crafted sound design and storytelling that brings hidden histories into the present.
  • A sweet local treat that you will receive on the journey.
RM25
In App Purchase

How to purchase and access

Download the Ceritalah app to purchase your ticket and find your way to the starting point. This is an on-site experience that can only be activated at the given location. Once at the starting location, follow the instructions on the app to activate the experience.

Purchase the tour on the Ceritalah App.
Google Play
App Store

Special Thanks To

Our interviewees: Lee Keaw Na, N. Sarvaesvaran, Polly Dawson, Ranee Rudra, Oon Siew Eng

Producing Team

  • Quin Ooi
    Luvenia Kalia
    Miriam Devaprasana
    Peta Khan
    Sofea Lee

Augmented Reality Design and Development

  • Justin Khaw
    Ray Ng
    Steven Voon
    White Room

Story Devising and Script Development

  • Lian Sutton
    Quin Ooi
    Miriam Devaprasana
    Alyson Evans (Dramaturgy)

Sound Design

Ashwin Gobinath (Nadir Studios), Quin Ooi

Cast

Shanthini Venugopal, Anjali Ashmithra Gandhi, Adah Kahir, Ahmed Azaad Bin Aziz, Brendan Cruz, Lau Chak Onn, Jo Kukathas, Lian Sutton, Naveen Raja, Ooi Hean Yew, Quin Ooi, Rachel Khoo, Roger Shak Yi.