Discover Penang: The Pearl of the Orient

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Welcome to Penang, Malaysia

Penang is one of the thirteen states of Malaysia, located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia by the Malacca Strait. It is made up of two distinct parts: Penang Island, where the capital city George Town is located, and Seberang Perai, a stretch of mainland opposite the island.

Size, Population, and Demographics

Penang covers an area of approximately 1,049 square kilometers, with Penang Island spanning about 295 square kilometers and Seberang Perai encompassing around 755 square kilometers.

The population of Penang is estimated to be over 1.8 million, making it one of the most densely populated states in Malaysia. The population is multi-ethnic, comprising mainly Malays, Chinese, and Indians, with a growing number of expatriates and foreign workers.

Historical Background

Penang’s modern history began in 1786 when Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company founded a settlement on Penang Island, which he named Prince of Wales Island. This was the beginning of British colonial rule in the Malay Peninsula. George Town was established as a free port and quickly became a thriving hub for trade and commerce.

Penang played a key role during British colonization and was later part of the Straits Settlements alongside Malacca and Singapore. It remained under British rule until Malaysia’s independence in 1957.

Map of Roads in Penang

The Origin of the Name "Penang"

The name "Penang" is derived from the Malay word “Pinang”, which refers to the areca nut palm tree (Areca catechu). This tree once grew abundantly on the island, and the full Malay name for Penang is “Pulau Pinang”, meaning “Areca Nut Island.”

Penang's Geography

Penang Island features a hilly and forested interior, with the tallest peak being Penang Hill at 833 meters above sea level. The island is fringed by beaches and coastal plains where most of the urban development is concentrated.



Seberang Perai, the mainland portion of Penang, consists of flatlands and is the agricultural and industrial heartland of the state. It is separated from the island by the Penang Strait and connected via the Penang Bridge and the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge.

Penang's Infrastructure

Penang has a well-developed road network, including several major highways and expressways:

• Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway: A coastal route connecting George Town to the Penang International Airport and Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone.
• North-South Expressway (NSE): This highway links Penang to other parts of Peninsular Malaysia, with entry and exit points in Seberang Perai.
• Butterworth Outer Ring Road (BORR): A bypass route that eases traffic around Butterworth and connects to the northern and southern regions of Seberang Perai.

Painting of Esplanade, Penang (View full-size image here)

George Town: Capital of Penang

George Town is the capital city of Penang, located on the northeastern tip of Penang Island. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 in recognition of its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant multicultural heritage.

Popular attractions include:

• Colorful street art
• Historic clan houses
• Religious sites including temples, churches, and mosques
• Museums and cultural centers
• A world-renowned food scene

How to Get to Penang

Penang is easily accessible by multiple modes of transportation:

• By Air: Penang International Airport (PEN) has direct connections to cities in Malaysia and abroad.
• By Road: Via the North-South Expressway and two bridges linking the island and mainland.
• By Rail: Intercity trains stop at Butterworth, from where travelers can ferry or drive into George Town.
• By Sea: Ferry services operate between Butterworth and George Town for both passengers and vehicles.

Things to Do in Penang

Penang offers a wide range of activities for all types of travelers:

• Discover heritage sites in George Town
• Enjoy the sun and sea at Batu Ferringhi Beach
• Visit Kek Lok Si Temple and take the funicular up Penang Hill
• Sample famous street food at Gurney Drive and hawker centers
• Trek through Penang National Park
• Celebrate cultural festivals like Chinese New Year, Thaipusam, and Hari Raya

Fun Facts About Penang

• Penang was the first British settlement in Southeast Asia.
• It’s often called the “Pearl of the Orient.”
• Its street food is globally acclaimed and considered among the best in the world.
• George Town was granted free port status in the 18th century.
• St. George’s Church in George Town is the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia, built in 1816.

Conclusion

Penang is a destination that beautifully combines historical charm, cultural richness, natural beauty, and modern vibrancy. It continues to captivate both locals and visitors, earning its reputation as one of Malaysia’s most beloved and unique states.