Malaysia's Multi-Cultural City

It began life as a busy trading port established by Francis Light in 1786 by 1800, only 14 years, the population had grown from virtully nothing to 10,000.

The British colonialisation of Penang brought with it a large amount of settlers including Chinese, Indians and Europeans. The island also attracted a large number of Malays to create what is today one of the most successful multi-racial communities in the world.

The influences of the various cultures can be seen both through the numerous cultural festivals and the fantastic, eyecatching mosques, temples and churches which co-exist side by side. The colonial influence can be seen through the Victorian architecture of the banks, administrative centres and churches in Georgetown. Visit our sightseeing section for more information.

Events in Penang

The mixtures of cultures in Penang brings a lot of variety to local events.

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year, or CNY as people from Penang call it, Is a fantastic festival which is celebrated over 14 days. Fantastic dragon and Lion dances can be seen at shopping centres and malls throughout the city. We had the fantastic experience of seeing a Lion Dance competition held at Plaza Gurney Chinese families will return to their roots and celebrate the reunion dinner.

Thaipussiam

This is a Hindu festival. Along with Deepavali this is one of the most important events in the Hindu calendar.

Chap Goh Meh

Chap Goh Meh is on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year, the last day of the festivities. The festival has been traditionally celebrated by the Malay-Chinese in Penang and many Chinese people elsewhere have never even heard of this fetival.

On Chap Goh Meh single girls Would throw oranges into the sea in the hope of finding a good husband. Eligable bachelors would retrieve the oranges in nets in the hope that the girl who threw it would instantly fall in love with him. It has now been rebranded as the Chinese Valentines Day.