Asia Beauty Spot – Asia Scenery

8. Penang Museum and Art Gallery

Walk into the compound of the Penang State Museum, and you will first be greeted by a regal bronze statue of Captain Francis Light, the founder of the Penang Straits Settlement, gazing down upon you.

Once you set foot inside the museum building, you will see why the State Museum located along Jalan Farquhar in Georgetown is reputed to be one of the best state museums in the country. Divided into galleries dedicated to Penang’s historical communities, as well as particular historical events that took place in Penang, the museum houses a fine collection of old photographs, maps, historical documents, Chinese furniture, embroidery, costumes and other historical relics.

On the first floor where the Art Gallery is located, works of local artists and paintings of old Penang are on display, namely those by William Daniels and Captain Robert Smith.

9. Pinang Peranakan Mansion

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a stately mansion, refurbished to reflect bygone days of the Straits Chinese settlement in Penang.

This magnificent townhouse is the former residence and office of Chinese Kapitan Chung Keng Kwee. He was a 19th century Hakka tin-miner and secret society leader of Hai San.

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is filled with more than 1,000 antiques and collectibles. The residence is unique and incorporates various Chinese architecture.

The townhouse, built in the 1890s incorporates Chinese carved-wood panels, with English floor tiles and Scottish iron works.

Take note that photography is not allowed within the mansion. Special permission has to be requested beforehand.

10. Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in George Town is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Penang. Its beginnings can be traced back to as early as 1801, when it was a small shrine.

Penang’s rapid growth as a trading hub especially of goods such as nutmeg, clove and pepper attracted traders from Europe, America, Arabia, India and China. These traders eventually settled down in Penang.

At the same time, seeing the need for a proper worshipping space for the increasing Indian community on the island, the shrine was expanded into a proper temple. It was then enlarged into a temple in 1833. This year is significant as it is noted as the year the temple was founded.

It was decorated by artisans and built in elaborate South Indian architecture. Statues of Hindu Gods, goddesses and sacred animals adorn the temple throughout. There is also a priceless statue of Lord Subramaniam, the revered Hindu deity, adorned in gold, diamonds and emerald finery.

Throughout the years, the Sri Maha Mariamman temple is also known by several names: Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple, Sri Arulmigu Mahamariamman Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple. These names refer to the same temple.

The temple is easily recognisable, from its intricate gopuram (sculpted wall tower), and visitors are encouraged to observe the prayer sessions carried out by the temple priests. This temple is located at Little India in Georgetown at the junction of Lebuh Chulia and Lebuh Queen.

11. Penang War Museum

This Penang War Museum situated on Bukit Batu Maung was erected on the original defence complex built by British before World War II. It became a defence fort during the war.

Today, it is a sprawling historical complex exhibiting many war paraphernalias, and shows historical timelines of events.

This war museum is a dedication to those who have served and died, defending the country.

Remember to dress in light, cool clothing; wear comfy shoes; put on a dull coloured hat and be armed with a pair of binoculars, insect repellent, notebook and pen.

12. Tanjung City Marina

The waterfront complete with colonial architecture to compliment the neighbouring heritage buildings. The marina is able to cater to vessels up to a maximum draft of 4 meters. It has 102 berths ranging from 11 meters to 50 meters length and can accommodate up to 140 yachts and boats of various sizes.

Facilities and services at the marina include Customs, Immigration and Port Clearance (CIP), 24-hour security, electrical and water supply, shower rooms, toilets, laundry services, refuelling facilities and repairs as well as maintenance works. There are also two restaurants, a café and a convenience store at the marina.

13. Tropical Spice Garden

Step into this little pocket of paradise and Nature’s sights, smells and sounds will instantly take over, obliterating all traces of the hustle and bustle that is associated with urban living.

It is excellently tranquil and a suitable place to immerse one’s self in the splendours of Mother Nature, this veritable secret garden is the place to be.

Spread over 3.2ha, this garden microcosm of diverse ecosystems houses more than 500 varieties of flora from Malaysia and other regions.

Getting the full list of Penang Attractions (Part 1)

Courtesy of Malaysia Tourism Board