Kek Lok Si is a sprawling citadel of Buddhist devotion on the hillside of Ayer Itam on Penang island. The first building was erected in 1891, and since then has blossomed into one of Southeast Asia’s most revered Buddhist temples.…
Heritage hotels in Penang are often meticulously restored colonial-era buildings that once served as private residences on Penang island. These UNESCO World Heritage Site gems connect Penang to the island’s rich history as a busy port in the mid-1800s and…
The History of Penang and the Founding of Georgetown is a story of betrayal, double-dealing and lost friendship between Francis Light and the Sultan of Kedah. The island of Penang virtually uninhabited at the time belonged to Kedah, itself a…
Penang heritage under the British began in 1786. Up until then, Penang Island in the Straits of Malacca was part of the Kedah Kingdom. Little did locals know that this uninhabited island was about to be transformed beyond all recognition.…
The Clan Jetties Penang are one of the many attractions worth paying a visit to. But this tourist hot spot isn’t your typical waterfront promenade. The Clan Jetties are an important part of Penang’s cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site…
Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi is a large Chinese clan house in Malaysia. It is possibly the grandest clan temple in all of South East Asia. The intricate architecture of this clan house gives visitors an amazing insight into Pulau…
Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a step back in time to an era of opulence in the 19th century. Located on Church Street, this dazzling mansion was built by prosperous businessman Chung Keng Quee. It offers tourists and visitors a spectacular…
Armenian Street Heritage Enclave just off Lebuh Carnarvon and near to the Armenian Street Heritage Hotel, has undergone a remarkable transformation. A once-neglected part of town, this historic area is a great location for travellers seeking a taste of Penang’s…
Baba Nyonya is the name given to the descendants of Chinese men and Malay women, that began to emerge in the 15th century. Southern Chinese immigrant men travelling on Ming dynasty-sponsored maritime missions settled in Melaka and married local women.…