Discover Penang Malaysia with Penang Travels!

Penang Malaysia is situated between the Malaysia peninsula and the Island of Sumatra overlooking the Strait of Malacca. Upon hearing the word Penang most would assume it is in reference to Pulau Pinang. In the local Malay dialect Pulau means island and Pinang means “betel nut palm”. Therefore, this island is known as the “island of the betel nut palm” in local dialect. “Betel nut” is actually an areca nut that is commonly found on south Pacific Islands and throughout SE Asia. Additionally, the nut has a mild narcotic effect similar to nicotine. As a result, it has been chewed like common tobacco by the natives for centuries.

Early Explorers Discover Penang Malaysia

The ambitions of the Ming Dynasty led to the exploration of the Strait of Malacca and the discovery of Penang. As a result, the first documented evidence of the island is found on the seafaring maps of Admiral Zheng He. In modern times, Pulau Pinang has a very large Chinese population relative to other states in Malaysia. However, large scale Chinese immigration to Malaysia would not begin until the 19th century during the tin mining boom. Although the trade routes between China and Penang were established as early as the 15th century by Admiral Zheng He.

Next came the arrival of the Sumatrans and the Arabs in the early 18th century. Settlements were then established on the island and these two cultural groups have since intermarried and assimilated into the local Malay culture. Subsequently, in 1786 the British would arrive in the form of the British East India Company. As a result of the British, Malaysia would be introduced to cultural and economic alterations that have permanently changed the cultural and geographical landscape. 

The British Acquisition of Penang

The British East India Company immediately recognized the strategic geographical importance of Penang’s location. Being located on the Strait of Malacca was ideal for the establishment of a British stronghold to check the colonial endeavors of the French and Dutch in SE Asia.

Therefore, their representative Captain Francis Light was dispatched to negotiate with the Sultan of Kedah regarding the acquisition of Penang. For the captain, the timing could not be better. Fortunately, the sultan had been having difficulties repelling the incursions of the Siamese and Burmese.  As a result, he agreed to let the British have possession of PUlau Pinang in return for military assistance. Unfortunately for the sultan, the British would renege on their promise of protection. However, the deed was done and Penang Malaysia would remain as a British possession until the 20th century Japanese occupation and subsequent independence of Malaysia.

The location of Penang Georgetown was ideal to establish a seaport on the lucrative sea lanes that ran between China and India. Therefore, under British authority George Town would be transformed into a duty free port. Additionally, agricultural production of spice was implemented on the island in the 18th century. Plus, demand for rubber and tin would explode in the late 19th century.

Penang Malaysia My Second Home

The open multicultural lifestyle in Malaysia is universal and all cultural elements are welcome here. As a result, the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism has made the country readily accessible to expats from around the world. The program is called “Malaysia My Second Home” (MM2H).  Therefore, global travelers who visit Pulau Pinang and other locations throughout Malaysia have the viable option of relocating here. Furthermore, the culture, unique food, Penang Malaysia weather and brilliant natural environment are financially accessible to most people.  

The program was designed to be extremely competitive with similar long term visa programs throughout Asia and worldwide. As a result, there are clear novel benefits to procuring a MM2H Visa for you and your family. Typically, these types of programs which offer a high standard of living with low cost were ideal for retirees. Indeed, a significant percentage of the 30,000 successful MM2H applicants are retirees. However, in the era of globalization jet setters may find that the Penang Beaches and infrastructure suits them very well!

Successful applicants will receive a 10 year multiple entry visa. As a result they can reside anywhere on peninsular Malaysia, the federal territories and Sabah. Additionally, they can bring their spouses, children and parents who are over 60 years of age. Economic opportunity here is infinite! The local economy is strong and has tremendous potential to evolve and increase interconnection with other ASEAN countries and also China. Moreover, the banking system and government finances are sound in contrast to developed markets. Your MM2H visa will allow you to open bank accounts here in Malaysia that otherwise would not have been available. Plus, the offshore banking opportunities in the Labuan Federal Territory will offer you additional options for asset protection and wealth expansion.

Penang Malaysia Things To Do

Pulau Pinang offers an extraordinary selection of destinations for both short and long term stays. Therefore, city dwellers who enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life will be right at home here. Additionally, nature lovers there are beaches and pristine mountain trails for those who enjoy the challenges of hiking. Additionally, the island has a flora and fauna that will amaze botanists and animal enthusiasts.

For the city dwellers, George Town is the second largest city in Malaysia and has all of the big city amenities. Shopping malls, museums, street art and a wide diversity of dining options are available to all who come here. Additionally, easy access to Seberang Perai from George Town via the local ferry will quickly put you at the doorstep of Peninsular Malaysia. From the ferry terminal it is a short walk to both the ETS train and express bus service that runs throughout the peninsula. 

Additionally,  Kuala Lumpur is only 2 hours away when you take the new ETS train. Moreover, George Town suburbs such as Gurney Drive, Tanjung Tokong, Tanjung Bungah and Batu Feringghi are easily accessible from downtown.

Penang Malaysia Natural Attractions

For those who prefer the natural environment you will enjoy many attractions on the island. These locations are all easily accessible from Komtar in George Town. 

Penang Botanical Gardens – consists of a world class collection of trees and plants which have been cultivated and preserved for over a century. There is a wide diversity of flora and fauna for the novice and the botanist alike.

Penang Hill  – is a challenging 5 kilometers uphill from the Botanical gardens, but it is a rewarding experience featuring the best views on the island. For those who wish to forgo the extra challenge of the uphill hike, there is the funicular train which will bring you straight to the top. Penang Hill will be the high point of your trip o the island – literally!

Balik Palau – In English this translates as the “backside of the island”. This consists of a mountain drive through pristine jungle. Along the way there are waterfalls, durian farms, nutmeg plantations and local fruit stands to satisfy your curiosity. Additionally, there are some great viewpoints looking out over the Malacca Strait towards Sumatra.

Taman Negara – This translates as “state park” in English. Taman Negara is located in the NW section of the island just outside Teluk Bahang. For the adventurers, the park features nature hikes that take you past Monkey Beach to the Muka Head lighthouse. Additional hiking options include making the trek through the park to Pantai Kerakut. Boat rides are available to Monkey Beach from Teluk Bahang if you don’t want to sweat it out. 

Tropical Spice Garden – located midway between Batu Feringghi and Teluk Bahang is the spice gardens of Pulau Pinang. At the spice garden you will get a good look at tropical spices and also the amazing flora that is endemic to the tropics. Additionally, there is a spice restaurant and gift shop located within the gardens for good food and souvenirs. A beach awaits across the road from the gardens plus more restaurants featuring local fare.

Air Hitam – this translates as “black water” in English. The area features a huge fresh water dam located at the base of Bukit Bendera. Additionally, Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple is located adjacent to Air Hitam. Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and features a giant monument dedicated to Guanyin. 

Penang Beaches

Pantai Miami – no joking, they have a Miami Beach on Pulau Pinang! Located in Tanjung Bungah on the way to Batu Feringghi you will find a nice beach and seaside park. Additional attractions include the Cafe Miami and also Taman Rama Rama is nearby.

Monkey Beach – located a few kilometers from the park office at Taman Negara, Monkey beach is a refreshing destination after the hike in. There are restaurants available on the beach and cool drinks for a modest price. There are lots of monitor lizards and monkeys to enjoy in the area. If you are lucky you will spot some on the way in. Plus, there is sea transport to and from Teluk Bahang and also jet ski rentals.

Pantai Keracut – located across the promontory from Monkey Beach is Pantai Keracut. This is a more secluded option that involves a pristine jungle hike. There are mountain streams and small waterfalls to view along the way. Wildlife viewing opportunities includes seasonal nesting turtles. Plus, Tasik Meromiktik which contains a unique layered mixture of sea water and fresh water.

Batu Feringghi – features the premier beach on the island. This beach runs for 2-3 kilometers in front of the plush seaside resorts, restaurants, bars and cafes in Batu Feringghi.

Penang Food

The cultural diversity is also reflected in the many food varieties which are readily available at reasonable prices. As a result, there are a large number of Indian, Chinese and Malay restaurants located throughout Georgetown. Additionally, food is also commonly found street side in what are referred to as hawker stalls. There are special markets known as hawker centers that are located throughout town. One of the largest is the world famous Gurney Drive Hawker Center. Plus, Chulia Street hawker stalls are very popular with tourists and locals. These food bazaars open up at night and the city comes alive to enjoy the great food and cooler temperatures. At the hawker stalls every imaginable cultural delight can be found at low prices!

Pulau Pinang is also one of the world’s largest producers of nutmeg and other spices. One particular natural food that is abundant on the island is an exotic fruit called durian. Unfortunately, durian has a bad reputation as being very smelly and having a strange taste. However, many people love it and travel from throughout Asia to enjoy Penang’s special fruit. 

Due to Penang’s large Buddhist and Hindu population vegetarian restaurants are very common. Therefore, a large variety of both Chinese and also Indian varieties are available. A great vegetarian restaurant is available at the Kek Lok Si Buddhist temple on the lower levels.

Peranakan Chinese In Penang

Last but not least, there is a unique cultural phenomenon here known as the Peranakan Chinese or the Straits born Chinese. Also known as Nyonya, they are Chinese immigrants who came to Malay Peninsula during the British colonial period. The Peranakan are unique compared to other Chinese immigrants because they embraced the local Malay culture. This is in contrast with most other Chinese immigrants who bring China with them and retain their culture of origin. As a result, the Nyonya food has developed as a mixture of Malay spice with traditional Chinese foods. This special cooking is a very unique Penang food that can be found only in Malaysia!