Penang is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Malaysia, and with all the places to see and things to do, it’s not so hard to imagine why. Formerly the center of British Malaya, Penang has taken care to preserve its history while developing into a modern state at the same time. If you want a quick guide to your visit in this island-state, then read on.

1. Survey the island atop KOMTAR. This is the tallest building in Penang and it provides a 360-degree view of the island. An important landmark of the city, KOMTAR houses government offices, shopping centers, and an exhibition center.

2. Peruse the USM Museum collection. The University of Science Malaysia is dedicated to balancing the science and the arts in their exhibit, and there are many games, experiments, and exhibitions to fascinate children. After the visit, visitors can note down their experiences on paper, then post them on a wall near the exit.

3. Explore Fort Cornwallis. Shaped like a star, the only things that remain of Malaysia’s biggest fortress are the outer walls, a gunpowder magazine, and a small chapel. The second tallest lighthouse in Malaysia is located at the fort. Formerly called Fort Point Lighthouse, this structure in the shape of a ships’s mast is now called Penang Harbor Lighthouse. Half of Georgetown can be seen atop this lighthouse.

4. Stroll along Gurney Drive. A popular seafront promenade is in danger of being lost due to the construction of Penang Outer Ring Road. Enjoy dining among its food hawkers or watching the sun as it sets while there is still time. You can also shop in nearby Gurney Plaza or explore the many species of flora at the Botanical Gardens.

5. Ascend Penang Hill. Penang’s oldest hill resort has cool, unpolluted air, historical sites, and environmental significance that’s definitely worthwhile to visit. The Penang Hill Railways at the bottom of the hill is one of the world’s oldest funicular system, taking passengers around the hill as it ascends.  The ride takes 30 minutes, while passengers change trains midway up the slope. Make sure to let night overtake you there at the peak, as the lights turn the island into a dazzling jewel.

6. Shop at Batu Ferringhi Night Bazaar. From 7pm to 1am, the entire length of Batu Ferringhi transforms into a bargain hunter’s paradise as close to a thousand stalls sell everything from souvenirs to clothes.

7. Travel along the Georgetown Heritage Walk. Georgetown is the capital of the state of Penang, as well as one of the 3 straits settlement along with Malacca and Singapore. This UNESCO heritage site possess buildings in many architectural styles, including Indo-Malay Palladian and Anglo-Indian Bungalow, as well as the many temples, shrines, and churches. Cheong Fat Tze Mansion, Queen Victoria Clock Tower, and Kapitan Keling Mosque are a few of the many heritage sites waiting for you to examine.

8. Cross Penang Bridge. Asia’s longest bridge is a beloved landmark in Malaysia and a symbol of the continuing economic development of the region. You can watch the annual Penang Bridge Marathon on it, or just take in a wondrous view of the island while passing over it.

9. Feast in a Hawker Center. The hawker center in front of Sunway Hotel along Lorong Baru is the Penang resident’s choice for street food. Try some Char Kuay Kark, Penang Laksa, Satay, or curry noodles in pig’s blood in any of the many makeshift stalls. Have some Lorbak as well, which is minced pork wrapped in tofu skin, and dipped in sweet sauce and chili sauce before eating.

10. Attend the Annual Penang Food Festival.  What better time to enjoy the food capital of Malaysia than during the food festival, a chance for visitors to indulge in the local culinary creations while partying at the same time. Venues include the Penang International Sports Arena and Batu Feringghi beach.

You can get to Penang by taking a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Penang International Airport, then riding a taxi for 30 minutes to Georgetown. They can also take a train to Butterworth, get down right by the ferry terminal, then sail across to the island.

Posted in Malaysia, Things to do

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