Information in Penang

Penang, "The Pearl of the Orient" lies off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The state comprises the island of Penang covering an area of about 285 sq. km and a narrow strip of approximately 760 sq. km on the mainland known as Seberang Perai (Province Wellesley) separated by a channel 3 km wide at the closest point. They are linked by the Penang Bridge and a 24-hour ferry service. Its population of more than 1 million represents a happy mix of the major races found in Malaysia with Malays making up 32%, the Chinese 59% and Indians 7%.

Georgetown, at the north-eastern tip of the island is the seat of administration and is also the commercial hub of the state. This bustling metropolitan city combines the best of east and west as seen in its fascinating collection of fine old buildings, each bearing the stamp of different foreign influences in its colorful history. Much of its charm also lies in its famous golden beached and calm warm seas. Penang today is a resort island in full bloom - an idyllic playground for worshippers of the sun and the sea. Its multi-racial population contributes to a wealth of cultural attractions and festivals for visitors to bring home memories of happy times in Penang.


Penang Overview

Penang, a beautiful tropical island in the northwest of Peninsular Malaysia, also called PINANG, is a leading port of Malaysia. Its sheltered harbour is separated from the west-coast of the Malaysian mainland by a 5 km channel through which international shipping approaches from the north to avoid the many shallows of the southern route.

A well-known holiday destination for millions of visitors from all over the world, the island measures a modest 285 sq.km and is inhabited by 1.2 million people who hail from a diverse mix of cultures and religions.

George Town, at the north-eastern tip of the island is the capital city of Penang and commercial hub of the state. History dictates the island was established as a British trading post in 1786, which plied the trading routes between the east and the west.

After a lapse of over two centuries, Penang still preserves the grandeur of the colonial heritage in architecture and design. Its unique charm of a careful blend of old and new has made it the threshold of attraction to more than 2 million visitors every year.

Known also as the "Pearl of the Orient", Penang is definitely a one-stop holiday destination with rich historic attractions, sight-seeing, entertainment, food, a sprawling stretch of sun-kissed beaches and an excellent selection of hotels and resorts from which to choose.

Climate

Penang enjoys a tropical climate with fairly uniform temperatures throughout the year, ranging from 32 deg.C. during the day to 22 deg. C. at night. Humidity is relatively high. There are no distinct hot or cold seasons and the mean annual rainfall range from 200-250cm. Although rain falls throughout the year, September to November are the wetter months.