Known as the "Pearl of the Orient", Penang is composed of two parts: Penang Island (Penang Island) and Perai Province. The two are connected by the 13.5-kilometer Penang Bridge and the 24-kilometer Penang Second Bridge.

Picture taken from stgileshotel.com

Penang is named after the betel nut tree on the island. As the trading base of the British East India Company, Penang has an indelible mark in the history of shipping and trade for hundreds of years. Penang Island is located at the northern mouth of the Strait of Malacca, across the sea from the Malay Peninsula.

Georgetown, the capital of Penang Island, is a city rich in ancient history and culture. Although the current government has gradually planned and tried to develop into a modern city, some areas still retain the ancient cultural atmosphere. Tricycles, quaint buildings, temples, narrow streets, etc. are all unique cultural scenes in Penang.

Picture taken from ashleyabroad.com

Picture taken from smart-i Malaysia

History

Picture taken from leminhkhai

Dating back to 1786, in order to avoid the invasion of Siam and Burma, the British captain Francis Light received the jurisdiction of Penang from the Sultan of Kedah on behalf of the East India Company under the condition of providing military protection. Since Wright encouraged Chinese and other people to immigrate to Penang and reclaim land as much as possible during his tenure, Penang, which was originally sparsely populated, became increasingly prosperous. After that, Penang, Malacca and Singapore became the British Straits Settlements.

Economy

Penang, which is dominated by trade, industry, tourism and agriculture, is known as the Silicon Valley of the East in Malaysia. Many international electronics companies including Intel, Dell, Keysight, Seagate, etc. have set up factories in Penang to produce electronic products such as circuit boards and chips.

It is worth mentioning that in 2013, Penang was also selected as one of the eight most livable cities in the world after retirement, the Best Municipal Council Award, the eighth most livable city in Asia, and the eighth among the world's top 40 best tourist attractions The position and other honors have attracted many big groups to invest.

Local Life

Picture taken from penangbyhotels.com

Penang is mainly divided into several ethnic groups including Chinese, Malays, and Indians, and other ethnic groups also account for a small part. Although Penang is becoming increasingly prosperous and advanced, the pace of life is still relatively slow compared to the capital. In addition, the consumption level in Penang is also lower than that in Kuala Lumpur. It is basically no problem to buy a bowl of noodles for you within RM5.

The locals get along well, warm, simple and humane, and are often very kind to tourists. They are also especially proud of their cuisine or city. In addition, the local climate is also hot and humid, so friends who come here are advised to prepare sunshade tools.

Belief

Image taken from Jims Boud, tripodshutter, wikipedia commons and penangbyhotels.com

Since Malaysia is a multi-clan country, different clans have their own beliefs, so there are many temples. Most of the local Chinese believe in Buddhism, Taoism or Christianity, the Malays believe in Islam, and the Indians believe in Buddhism or Christianity.

Due to the large number of Chinese in Penang, restaurants and coffee shops can be seen everywhere. However, it should be noted that some Malay restaurants have Halal signs, and pork food and alcohol are not allowed to enter. It coincides with the Muslim month of Ramadan, and Malay compatriots must fast for a month. Try to avoid eating in front of them during this time to show respect.

Culture

Picture taken from ficklr

Penang is a multilingual society. Although most street names are in Malay, signs and advertisements in multiple languages can be seen everywhere. The local Chinese generally speak Hokkien, English, Malay, and Chinese. English or Malay is required to communicate with Malays or Indians.

In addition, Penang was also selected as the champion of the world's food city by Lonely Planet magazine, especially street food such as Hokkien Prawn Noodles, Curry Noodles, Assam Laksa, Char Koay Teow, Cendol, etc., attracting many foreign tourists Come here admiringly.

Picture taken from The Food Canon and ViralCham

With its unique geographical location, cultural landscape and historical origin, it all adds mystery and unique atmosphere to Penang. Some people call Penang the "Pearl of the Orient", and others call it "Gourmet Paradise", but these are not enough to describe its splendor.

When you are in the ancient wide streets and narrow alleys; enjoy the creative urban murals; experience the leisurely life attitude of the locals and enjoy the satisfaction brought by the food, Penang will definitely make you linger and forget to return, and finally send a video .

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