Located in the northwest part of Malaysia, Penang, a harmonious fusion of the East and West, mo-dernity and tradition, is arguably one of the most fascinating islands in Asia. It offers visitors a combination of delicious food, multiple art and culture scenes, adventures in jungles and hills, and pleasurable experiences on soft, sandy beaches.
Penang was established as the first British Straits Settlement because it was the prime stop on the watery road between Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Moreover, Penang was a vital base for Sun Yat-sen, the first president of the Republic of China (1912 – 1949), before he overthrew the Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1911). Sun's old house is preserved as a museum in Georgetown, capital of the island, for its visitors to explore his influ-ence and contribution to Malaysia.
Penang, which means "the Pearl of the Orient" in Malaysian, has held numerous names throughout its history. The geographical term "Penang Island" first appeared on the navigation map made by Chinese envoy Zheng He in the 15th century, when it was part of the ancient Buddhist-Hindu Kingdom of Kedah. Penang has traded with China ever since, and Chinese business still dominates the local economy.
Also in the 15th century, Portuguese sailors stopped over during their trips to the Spice Islands. As a result of this, Penang was also known in the West as Pulo Pinaom.
However, Malaysian people believe Penang Island was born when British captain Francis Light established the island as a British trading post in 1786.
Although the name "Prince of Wales Is-land" for Penang has never really caught on, the occasion marked the beginning of Penang in modern history, as well as the beginning of more than a century of British involvement in Malaysia. Georgetown was established in the same year, and that name has stuck.
Lively scenes
The Straits' distinctive architec-ture and the exceptional charms of its colonial past have earned Georgetown UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Penang has one of the largest collec-tions of pre-World War II buildings in Southeast Asia. The architecture reflects 171 years of British domination of the island, merging local, Chinese, Indian, Islamic and other elements.
Indeed, walking around Georgetown is quite the enchanting experience. Taking a local trishaw or renting a bike is also an environmentally-friendly way to learn about Penang's different religious and cultural legacies. You could start a specialized heritage tour in Penang Museum and observe colonial buildings such as Fort Cornwallis, built by Francis Light, the "Anglo-Indian garden house" features of Suffolk House, and the Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Clock tower.
While Indian Muslims made their mark at the Kapitan Keling Mosque, Chinese immigrants demonstrated their talent with outstanding architecture such as that of Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, built by a hugely successful Chinese trader and community leader during the Qing Dynasty. Kek Lok Si, the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, is another good representative of Chinese architecture in Penang.
When looking for accommodation, try to stay in a guesthouse or hotel located in an older building. Two examples are Hutton Lodge, owned by an Indian Muslim family in the 1920s, and Old Penang Guest House, a pre-war building that combines its heritage with a comfortable stay and good service.
In addition, the art scene is very much alive, and Penang is full of impressive handicrafts. The Yahong Art Gallery displays a huge variety of artwork and a wide selection of fine Chinese jewelry made from ivory, jade, lapis lazuli and other stones. Some of Penang's best batik, a traditional Malaysian textile, is sold at Yahong.
Along Armenian Street, you'll find the Islamic Museum, showcasing the history of Islamic art in Malaysia. If you are lucky enough to encounter Koay Soo Kau, the owner of Galeri Seni Mutiara, he'll show you his collection of artworks, created by the first generation of Malay artists, on the second floor.
If you don't see Penang photographer and owner of the eponymous Studio Howard, try to seek out his good friend, an English painter named Paul. Paul helps manage the studio and current exhibitions whenever he's in Penang.
Ask Paul how many times he has returned to Penang for the island's attractive lifestyle. More importantly, he'll give you good recommendations of what to look out for on the indie art scene.
The War Museum brings visitors back to the time of World War II in Penang. Designed by British engineers and built by South Africans, Indians, Nepalese and locals, the Penang War Museum was once a British military defense fort. When the Japanese invaded in 1941, it became a war prison. The numerous tunnels are fun to explore and demonstrate how soldiers used to hide.
Penang has a long list of exciting events and festivals throughout the whole year. Indeed, it seems to celebrate all major religious festivals. On February 7, Hindus march with pots of milk to celebrate memorize the birthday of a Hindu hero, Lord Murugan. This Hindu festival comes alive in Penang as a carnival with chanting and music.
Penang's Chinese population celebrates 15 days of Chinese New Year starting on January 23. In addition to traditional lion dances and fireworks, the Penang Chinese New Year celebration boasts two main events with special local features - Th'nee Kong She (Jade Emperor's Birthday, January 31) and Chap Goh Meh (local Chinese Valentine's Day, February 6). Hari Raya Aidifitri, the Muslim festival, marks the end of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan and will be celebrated from August 17 to 20.
What's more, Penang is now rapidly gaining recognition for its annual jazz festival. Held on the first weekend of December, the Penang Island Jazz Festival has attracted both local and foreign musicians to play on its beachy stages. In addition to musical performances galore, activities include jazz forums, mini-jazz poster exhibitions, charity dinners, poetry sessions and workshops. Last year, the eighth annual festival featured such bands as Fred Cheah & the Jazzhats, Espen Eriksen Trio and Nina Van Hor.