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Malaysia guide

Penang

The Island

Penang (Pulau Pinang in Malay) is located on the north-western coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It comprises the Penang island and a strip on the mainland named Province Wellesley (Seberang Perai) which are linked by the Penang Bridge, the third longest in the world.

Captain Francis Light in 1786, acquired the island of Penang from the local sultan in exchange for protection. He later established a town and named it "Georgetown" after King George IV of England.

The Island measures a modest 285 sq. km. And is inhabited by slightly over a million people who hail from a diverse mix of cultures and religions.

Its owes much of its fame to its fine beaches which are ideal for all types of water sports. Along its beaches, resorts of international standards have sprouted up offering full facilities for rest and recreation.

Blessed with such a great variety of food that it is often said that Penangites don't eat to live; they live to eat. Hawkers stalls offering diverse selection of local fare are in abundance everywhere you go. Nasi Kandar, Satay (skewered marinated meat pieces), Laksa (noodles in spicy sour soup), Hainanese Chicken Rice, Popiah and Rojak are just some of Penang's sumptuous treats you can't afford to miss.

More on Malaysia:

Penang

The Island
Georgetown
The City
Attractions
Penang Museum and Art Gallery
Sri Mariamman Temple
Fort Cornwallis
Khoo Kongsi
Kapitan Kling Mosque
Clock Tower
St. George's Church
Attractions
Penang Hill
Ferringhi Beach
Kek Lok Si Pagoda
Snake Temple
Penang Bird Park
Butterfly Farm
Wat Chayamangkalaram
Penang Bridge