INFO MALAYSIA - PENANG

ABOUT PENANG

1. Often referred to as the "Pearl of the Orient"
2. Established as the first British Trading post in the Far East in 1786 by Captain Francis Light.
3. The Capital George Town  is steeped in history and has preserved a wealth of Heritage Building.

INTERESTING FACTS:

1. Aspen Vision City:  a 247-acre, freehold, mixed-development project in Batu Kawan, Penang, Malaysia, developed by Aspen Group. It's a landmark joint venture with IKEA Southeast Asia and aims to be a self-sustaining, intelligent city with world-class infrastructure and amenities.
2. Astaka Taman Tun Sardon: at Gelugor, Penang > a hawker centre in Taman Tun Sardon, has many Malay stalls selling various food items. Named after the Yang DiPertua Negeri, Allahyarham Tun Sardon Jubir.
3. Avatar Secret Garden: a light display in Penang, Malaysia, that was designed to resemble the world of Pandora from the movie Avatar. It was located near the Thai Pak Koong Temple in Tanjung Bungah.
4. Batu Ferringhi: the most popular beach destination in Penang. Batu Ferringhi means "Foreigner's Rock", a term which refers to the early Portuguese traders who landed here. 
5. Bukit Bendera: also known as Penang Hill at 830 m above sea level, is popular for its cool, fresh climate as well as panoramic views of Georgetown in Penang. https://penanghill.gov.my 
6. Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest : also known as Bukit Mertajam Hill, is a popular destination in Penang, Malaysia, offering a refreshing escape into nature for outdoor enthusiasts. It features a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for recreation and relaxation.
7. Butterworth Art Walk:  Butterworth, Penang > The mural scene at Seberang Perai may have blossomed later but is quickly catching up with George Town’s iconic street art. The Butterworth Art Walk is a product of Penang’s vibrant artists and the state’s rich history.
8. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion: located in Leith Street, Penang > built in 1880s by wealthy Cheong Fatt Tze the mansion is combination of Su Chow Dynasty period architecture. > www.cheongfatttzemansion.com
9. Chowrasta Penang: the original Chowrasta was built in 1890. Located in George Town, Chowrasta in Urdu means "four cross road".
10. Clan Jetties: located at Weld Quay, George Town > one of the last bastions of old Chinese settlements with enclaves of wooden stilt houses perched over the sea. 
11. Clock Tower (Penang) : at Persiaran Raja Edward, Penang > presented to Penang by local millionaire Cheah Chen Eok in 1897 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. 
12. Dark Mansion: a 3D glow-in-the-dark museum in Penang, Malaysia, known for its unique blend of art and technology. It features 3D paintings and artworks that transform under different lighting conditions, offering a dynamic and immersive experience. The museum is a popular attraction, particularly for those seeking interactive and photogenic art experiences.
13. Design Village Outlet Mall: Design Village is an outlet mall in Batu Kawan, Penang, Malaysia. Opened in 2016, it is Malaysia's biggest outlet mall, spanning a built-up area of 37,161 m². Design Village is reportedly built on a 24-acre tropical garden. At the time of its opening in November 2016, the mall was nearly 85% filled with tenants.
14. Dhammikarama Temple: located at Burmah Lane, Penang > a designated historical site as it is one of the earliest Burmese temples in Malaysia and only one remaining. 
15. Entopia Penang: Tanjung Bungah, Penang > The world's first butterfly farm and Malaysia's largest. Contemporary indoor/outdoor place with live butterflies & other insects, plus interactive workshops.
16. ESCAPE Theme Park: Teluk Bahang, Penang > a Multi-award winning adventure park, offering a high ropes course, zip lines, slides, a climbing tower & kid-friendly attractions. 
17. Feri Pulau Pinang: a public transportation system in Penang, Malaysia, connecting George Town on the island with Butterworth on the mainland. It operates within the Penang Strait, offering a scenic and convenient way to travel between the island and the mainland, especially for foot passengers and motorcyclists.
18. Forerst Recreation Park and Museum, Teluk Bahang: just 15 km from George Town, provides a good introduction to the rainforest and its many native species of flora and fauna as well as birds and insects. 
19. Fort Cornwallis : at Lebuh Light, Penang > the spot that Captain Francis Light first landed on the Island in 1786. 
20. Georgetown : at Penang > declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008, was named after the reign of the British Monarch George III - the first town in Malaysia to obtain city Status. 
21. Gurney Drive: Just minutes from the Penang City Centre, the popular seafront promenade, completed in 1936 and named New Coast Road. In 1952 it was renamed Gurney Drive after Sir Henry Gurney the British High Commissioner in Malaya (1951-52). He was assassinated by the Communist guerillas in 1952.  
22. Hutan Lipur Bukit Panchor: a state park in Penang, Malaysia, offering a variety of recreational activities and opportunities to appreciate nature. Established in 1963, it's known for its well-maintained facilities, diverse landscape, and rich wildlife.
23. Hutan Pelajaran Air Hitam Dalam: a protected marshland in Sungai Dua, Seberang Perai Utara. It was named after the nearby Sungai Air Hitam, a tributary of Sungai Perai.
24. Jeruk Madu Pak Ali: Simpang Ampat, Penang > Pak Ali Food Industries Sdn Bhd (PAFI) is the leading manufacturer of fruit pickles in Malaysia which are famous for its special taste and flavours under the brand name “Pak Ali”. These pickles are made from premium quality, fresh fruits that are handpicked from the best farms.
25. Jurassic Research Centre: at George Town > brings over 200 dinosaurs back to life (with the help of the latest animatronics technology.It is Malaysia's largest Dinosaur Park. 
26. Juru Auto City: located 1 km from Juru Toll and 5.5 km from Penang Bridge, a lively one-stop destination for all things such as atuo, food, entertainment, shopping and celebrations. 
27. Kek Lok Si Temple : at Ayer Itam,Penang > built in 1890, reputed to be the most beautiful and largest Buddhist Temple Complex in the world measuring 33 m. 
28. Khoo Kongsi: is a large Chinese tribal house with intricate and highly decorated architecture, known as a landmark of the dominant Chinese presence in Penang, Malaysia.
29. KOMTAR Penang: a civic complex of 5 buildings in George Town, Pulau Pinang. It first opened on 2 December 1976. 
30. Laguna Waterpark: Perai, Penang > were designed seamiessly to match the Amazon theming, complete with green wall, landscaping, unique sculptures and rock carvings is one of a kind in the region. 
31. Magic World Penang: at George Town > a mini theme park with a combination of Magic & Movie Tricks. 
32. Masjid Kapitan Kling: a prominent historical mosque in George Town, Penang, Malaysia. It was founded in the early 19th century by Indian Muslim traders and is a significant landmark in the city.
33. Masjid Negeri Pulau Pinang: Penang State Mosque > a prominent landmark and place of worship in George Town, Penang, Malaysia. Completed in 1980, it features a unique architectural style blending Western modernist and Malay influences. The mosque can accommodate 5,000 worshippers and is known for its striking dome and minarets.
34. Masjid Terapung Tanjung Bungah: The Penang Floating Mosque, also known as Tanjong Bungah Floating Mosque is a mosque within the city of George Town in the Malaysian state of Penang. This over-water mosque will appear as it is floating on sea water at high tide. 
35. Museum of Glass: located at Mount Erskine Road, Penang > the iBox Museum of Glass, showcases in different techniques in creating glass ornamentation.  > www.iboxglass.com
36. Muzium dan Galeri Tuanku Fauziah: officially known as USM Museum, located within the grounds of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, about 10 km from George Town. It was named in honour of Tuanku Fauziah bt Tengku Abdul Rashid, The Raja Permaisuri Agong (Queen) of Malaysia (2001-2006). 
37. Nasi Kandar Beratur: the famous Nasi Kandar in George Town, Pulau Pinang. In business since 1943, got its name from the long queue of people outside the shop. Nasi Kandar is a popular northern Malaysian dish from Penang, originally introduced by the Indian Muslim traders from India.
38. Nibong Tebal Fireflies: Visitors can experience the magic of thousands of fireflies lighting up the mangrove-lined riverbanks at night, especially during sunset. The area is a popular spot for firefly watching, with tours offered by local fishermen who operate boat rides.
39. P. Ramlee House:  located at Jalan P.Ramlee in George Town > house of Malaysia's movie legend, the late P.Ramlee, the house where he was born in 1929.
40. Padang Kota Lama: the parade ground and playingfield created by the British colonials in the civic district of George Town. It is bordered by Fort Cornwallis on one side, Jalan Tun Syed Syekh Barakbah, Jalan Padang Kota Lama dan Light Street. 
41. Pak Mat Western: a business known for its marinated meat products and Western food restaurants. It started from a small barber shop in Bukit Minyak, Penang and is now a well-known brand in Malaysia with marinated meat products such as lamb, beef, and marinated chicken, as well as restaurants serving Western dishes.
42. Pantai Bersih: Butterworth, Penang > Pantai Bersih means "Clean Beach" - and until recently, that's all there is to the name. The coast of Pantai Bersih, while not the cleanest still, is certainly much improved to before. Palm trees have been replanted, especially near the expressway rest stop. Coastal fisherman are out on the coast doing their thing with nets.
43. Pasembur Penang: Pasembur is one of the menu WAJIB to try when you're visiting Padang Kota Lama.Pasembur is a Malaysian salad consisting of shredded cucumber, potatoes, bean curd, turnip, bean sprouts, prawns fitters, spicy fried crab, fried squid or other seafoods and dressed with a sweet and spicy nut sauce.
44. Penang Bird Park: located in Bandar Seberang Jaya, 13 km from George Town - featuring beautiful aviaries in a naturally tropical environment. More than 300 species of birds from Malaysia and around the world make their home here. 
45. Penang Bridge : at Penang > completed in 1985, the longest bridge in Asia, and the 3rd longest in the world with 8.5 km over water, 13.5 km long. > www.penangbridge.com.my
46. Penang Butterfly Farm: located in Teluk Bahang, there are more than 120 species of butterfly numbering in the thousands,along with other insects and small animals such as beetles, lizards, frogs and snails. 
47. Penang Free School : at Penang > the oldest English Medium School in Southeast Asia, established on 21 October 1816 by Reverend Robert Sparke Hutchings. 
48. Penang National Park: located at the northwestern tip of the iland in Teluk Bahang, Penang - just 21 km from George Town, the park covers an area of 1,226 hectares of dipterocarp, highlands, mangroves, beaches and rocky coastline. 
49. Penang Peranakan Mansion: located at Church Street in the heart of George Town, Penang > originally belong to Kapitan Chung Keng Quee  a chinese immigrant who made his fortune on the island. The Mansion houses more than 1,000 pieces of artefacts, antiques and collectibles on display.  > www.penangperanakanmansion.com.my
50. Penang State Museum & Art Gallery: located at Farquhar Street, Penang >opened in 1965, a regal bronze statue of Sir Francis Light, the founder of Penang greets visitors.  > www.penangmuseum.gov.my
51. Penang Street Art: at George Town > The street art, including murals and iron sculptures, showcases the city's history, heritage, and culture. It's a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, with many visitors coming to pose with the famous murals.
52. Penang Toy Museum: located at Teluk Bahang, Penang - housing a collection of more than 120,000 toys that will charm both young and old. It is the largest toy museum in the world (Wikipedia).
53. Penang War Museum: located at Bukit Batu Maung, 19 km from George Town, Penang > dedicated to those who served and died defending the country. Having earned a place on the list of Top 10 Most Haunted Sites in Asia by the National Geographic Channel. 
54. Province Wellesley : @ Seberang Perai, Penang > was named after Richard Coley Wesley (Viscount Wellesley) British Governor General of India (1798-1805). 
55. Pulau Jerejak: a 3.62 km² islet off the eastern coast of Penang Island in the Malaysian state of Penang. It is also a short ferry ride from Bayan Lepas, a suburb of George Town. It was formerly the main leper asylum for the Straits Settlements, a Quarantine Station and a penal colony.
56. Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower: located south of Fort Cornwallis at George Town, Pulau Pinang - to commemorate the Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee, the clock tower was commissioned in 1897, donated by Cheah Chen Eok, a local businessman. 
57. Saneen Goat Farms : agricultural operations that focus on raising Saanen goats, a breed known for high milk production. These farms often offer a range of activities, from showcasing daily farm operations like milking and feeding to selling fresh goat milk and dairy products. Saanen goat farms can be found in various locations, including Balik Pulau, Penang, where a popular farm provides a serene countryside escape and educational experience for visitors.
58. Snake Temple: Located in Bayan Lepas about 15 km from George Town, Penang > built in 1850 in memory of Buddhist deity Chor Soo Kong. Legend has it that snakes mysteriously appeared of their own accord after the temple was built. 
59. St. Anne's Church : located at Bukit Mertajam, Penang > founded in 1846, its annual celebration of the Feast of St. Anne attracts more than 100,000 pilgrims from Malaysia as well as neighbouring countries.  
60. Street of Harmony: Stroll along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling to experience the Street of Harmony that consists of four places of worships that coexist together in harmony. Along the street, you will find St George's Church, Sri Mahamariamman Temple, The Goddess of Mercy Temple and Masjid Kapitan Keling. 
61. Suffolk House:Located at Jalan Ayer Itam, Penang > served as the residence of Sir Francis Light, the founder of Penang Island in 1786. The house is available for social events and wedding. > www.suffolkhouse.com.my
62. Sultan Abdul Halim Mu' adzam Shah Bridge: also known as Penang Second Bridge, is a dual carriageway toll bridge in Penang. It connects Bandar Cassia (Batu Kawan) in Seberang Perai with Batu Maung on Penang Island. It is the second Bridge to link the island to the mainland after Penang Bridge.  
63. Taman Bandaraya: Formerly known as Taman Belia, it is located in George Town. It offers various recreational facilities such as a playground, skating rink, swimming pool, jogging track, and an area for graffiti activities.
64. Taman Botani Pulau Pinang: popularly known as "Waterfall Garden", the 30-hectares Penang Botanic Gardens was established in 1884. Situated at Jalan Air Terjun, George Town in Penang, recognised by UNESCO as the 3rd Biosphere Reserve in Malaysia listed in the World Network of Biosphere Reserve (WNBR).
65. Teddyville Museum : Batu Feringhi > Malaysia's first teddy collection is on display at this family museum with rare & historic bears.
66. The Cenotaph, Penang: a war memorial in George Town, Penang. Constructed in 1929, the memorial commemorates Allied servicemen who lost their lives during World War 1. Located at the city's Esplanade, it serves as a venue for Remembrance Day Ceremonies. 
67. The Habitat Penang Hill: a world class rainforest, can be accessed from Ayer Itam using the historic funicular railway. With its nature trail, iconic treetop walkway, and canopy bridge that provide exceptional rainforest experiences, The Habitat aspires to awaken curiosity and nurture support for conservation among the thousands of visitors it receives each year.
68. Top @ Komtar Penang: George Town, Penang > the largest indoor theme park in Penang, featuring rope trails, an aquarium and model dinosaurs plus more than 18 themed attractions in one iconic destination. 
69. Toy Museum:  located at Teluk Bahang, Penang > housing a collection of more than 120,000 toys. > www.penangtoymuseum.com
70. Tropical Fruit Farm: located at Teluk Bahang, Penang, 29 km from George Town > this 25-acre farm grows more than 250 types of tropical and sub-tropical fruits. 
71. Tropical Spice Garden: Located in Teluk Bahang, Penang. Overlooking the Straits of Malacca, the garden has more than 500 species of tropical flora and fauna. 
72. Uptown Bandar Perda: a night market located in Bandar Perda, Penang. It is known as the largest night market in Seberang Perai and operates daily from 6pm to 10pm at Jalan Perda Utama 1.
73. Wat Chayamangkalaram : at Lorong Burmah, Penang > the 3rd largest reclining Buddha in the world measuring 33 m.  Built in 1800s,it is a Thai Buddhist Temple. 
74. Wonderfood Museum: at George Town > it tells the history of Penang's street food and other interesting nuggets pertaining to food. Featuring oversized replicas of traditional Malaysian dishes. 

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

Updated: 5 July 2025: 11.38 p.m