Penang’s vibrant streets are the perfect place to hunt for one-of-a-kind items at incredible prices. For those who enjoy thrift shopping, the island is a hidden treasure trove of gently-used items waiting for a new home.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Penang‘s top thrift shops, where every turn is an exciting prospect for fashionistas, collectors, and anyone with a knack for the extraordinary.
Prepare yourself for an exciting shopping adventure brimming with unique finds, affordable treasures, and the delight of discovering something genuinely special.
Kawan Shop, George Town
Located in the heart of George Town, Kawan Shop is a community initiative with an important objective. It is more than simply a shop; it’s a source of hope and support for Penang’s homeless community. You become a part of a bigger movement as you browse the thoughtfully selected products, which include apparel, footwear, books, toys, and household items.
Kawan Shop’s goals go beyond sales; they aim to raise money for street projects, offer essential employment and vocational training to service users, and supply the community with affordable, high-quality secondhand goods.
In addition to offering products and services, Kawan Shop aims to positively impact the neighbourhood, raise awareness of homelessness in Penang, and develop lasting connections with every customer.
Address: Ground Floor, 41, Chulia St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
Operation hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30am to 5:30pm; Closed on Sundays.
WCC Value Shop, Tanjung Tokong
WCC Value Shop offers a unique shopping experience that extends beyond purchases. This social venture was born out of an incredibly successful jumble sale in 2017 that highlighted the amazing generosity of Penangites.
Driven by the conviction that this giving culture will persist, former General Committee member Rachael Day dedicated her life to opening a thrift store for WCC. With an eco-friendly mentality and a dedication to the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, and recycle), WCC Value Shop urges customers to join the movement of caring, changing, and sharing.
The shelves are stocked with reasonably priced gems ranging from RM2 to RM50. To add excitement, silent auctions are held, where clients can bid on rare items such as artwork.
Address: Mezzanine Floor, Island Plaza, 10470 Tanjung Tokong, Penang
Operation hours: Thursday to Tuesday, 11am to 5pm; Closed on Wednesdays.
OWL Zero Waste Grocer, Tanjung Tokong
Embark on a journey towards sustainability with OWL Zero Waste Grocer, a tiny store with an exciting goal. By bringing your own containers to fill with a wide variety of unpackaged supplies and handcrafted personal hygiene products, this zero-waste paradise provides a one-of-a-kind shopping experience unlike any other. Every shopping visit moves us a bit closer to a more environmentally friendly future.
Beyond just stocking groceries, OWL Zero Waste Grocer encourages customers to become involved in their local communities. Locals are invited to add to their collection of gently-used clothing, which is carefully curated to ensure that only products in excellent condition are sold. With 2,000 tonnes of textile waste generated daily, OWL Zero Waste Grocer’s programme gives our old garments a second chance at life.
Address: 12A, Lebuh Lembah Permai 4, Tanjung Tokong, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang
Operation hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm; Closed on Mondays and Sundays.
Great Worn Vintage, George Town
Discover a world of classic styles at Great Worn, the premier vintage shop for trendsetters. Comprised of renowned denim and lifestyle labels such as Converse, Levi, Dickies, and Wrangler, this stylish venue houses an impressive assortment of vintage American-style treasures.
From stylish tees to chic caps, high-quality outerwear, and even footwear brands like Redwing and Dr Martens, the racks are an absolute treasure trove of trendy finds. In addition to being a store, Great Worn is a style beacon that invites you to discover well-kept gems that will take your wardrobe to a new level of refinement.
Address: 103, Jalan Pintal Tali, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operation hours: Daily, 12pm to 9pm
Vintage 99, George Town
An adventure through time awaits you at Vintage 99, an edgy boutique that is more than a store; it is a journey through the world of diversity. Upon entering, you are welcomed with an exquisitely chosen assortment of gently-used vintage apparel and accessories.
With retro posters, vinyl records, and antique furniture, the atmosphere is a visual feast that will take you back in time. Vintage 99 offers stylish pants, unique vests, trendy sunglasses, and distinctive jewellery to suit any trendsetter.
Don’t miss out on deals by keeping an eye on their social media accounts for new arrivals. If you’re looking for more than just clothing, this thrift store also has a tattoo and piercing studio; it’s a one-stop lifestyle shop.
Address: 14, Lbh Ah Quee, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operation hours: Daily, 12pm to 8pm
Fujiyama Jeans & Tokyo no. 18, George Town
When you visit Fujiyama Jeans & Tokyo no.18, a two-story paradise tucked away in the centre of George Town, you can explore the essence of sustainability. Offering a carefully curated selection of gently-used designer items imported from Japan, this distinctive business promotes conscientious fashion in addition to selling clothing.
As you walk through its doors, you are immediately transported to a world of vintage charm by the atmosphere of old splendour. Chanel, Balenciaga, and Louis Vuitton luxury bags lure you in from their displays, while premium vintage leather and denim jackets adorn the shelves.
Items are sold at a fraction of its retail price, making this store unique in its dedication to making designer treasures accessible.
Address: 124-C, Jalan Burma, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operation hours: Daily, 11am to 7:30pm
The Lighthouse Thrift House, George Town
The Lighthouse Thrift House stands at the heart of compassion, a beacon of hope for people in need. With a variety of projects, their admirable movement helps the underprivileged beyond charity.
One such project is selling used items, which is a straightforward but effective approach to raising money for their cause. In addition to basic supplies, the Lighthouse provides food, a range of needed services, and, above all, a job opportunity for those who are less fortunate, acting as a lifeline.
Standing tall as a symbol of the life-changing impact of compassion, The Lighthouse shows that even the smallest deeds of kindness can light the way towards a brighter future.
Address: 52 C, Jln Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operation hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm; Closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
