Speak Hokkien! - Penang Hokkien Dictionary & Phrasebook

Penang Hokkien is more than a dialect – it’s the living language of the island. Brought by settlers from southern China’s Fujian province, it has flourished in Penang’s cultural crossroads, evolving with a rich vocabulary and colourful expressions that give it a character all its own. 

With over 7,500 entries and chapters covering daily life – family, numbers, time, celebrations, health, grammar, expressions (and even the swear words!), Speak Hokkien! captures the rhythm and personality of everyday speech. All entries are in POJ, the established Romanised Hokkien spelling system with tone marks, making it easy to follow and learn. 

Whether you’re a native speaker, curious learner or a Penangite reconnecting with your roots, Speak Hokkien! is a practical companion in keeping this vibrant dialect alive for generations to come.