Multicultural Penang owes its diversity to its years as a trading port. When UNESCO established capital George Town a World Heritage Site back in 2008, the organisation stated that the town held “a unique architectural and cultural townscape without parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.” A walk through Penang unveils a multitude of different influences – from traditional Malay kampungs to Anglo Indian bungalows, a whole host of eye-catching architecture illustrates the rich splendour of the region.  

George Town is situated on the north-east corner of Penang Island, and is one of Malaysia’s largest cities. Its mainly Chinese population is evident by the great number of ramshackle shophouses that line the streets as well as the many colourful trishaws that ship people around the city. Chinese and Indian temples stand side by side, perfectly representing George Town’s mixed-heritage landscape.

The city’s historic past is evident too – the colonial quarter offers a fascinating insight into Penang’s heritage, as stately Victorian office buildings, ornate Chinese mansions and wooden clan jetties coexist to form a jumble of styles and flavours. The multiculturalism reflects in the state’s food, too. The world-famous cuisine encompasses elements of Malay, Chinese, Indian and Peranakan cooking and can be sampled from any of the abundant hawker stalls that pepper George Town. The key is to be adventurous – it’s not often that you’ll get the chance to experience such an intense taste explosion as this.

Penang’s beaches are also pretty special. Some of Malaysia’s finest beaches can be found in the state, especially in the northern region. The most popular resort is Batu Feringghi, whose long strip of powdery sand is led up to by a handsome stretch of coves and smaller beaches. Another resort of note is the neighbouring suburb of Tanjung Bungah, hidden amongst lush greenery and rocky terrain. Check out the unique floating mosque with its towering minaret and Middle Eastern design.

Call 0161 430 6565 or email sales@ninetyeast.co.uk