Penang is a Malaysian state located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is divided into two parts by the Strait of Malacca: Penang Island to the west, where the capital city , George Town, is located, and Seberang Perai on the Malay Peninsula to the east. These two halves are physically connected by the Penang Bridge and the Second Penang Bridge. The state shares borders with Kedah to the north and east, and Perak to the south.
Penang is one of Malaysia's most developed economic powerhouses, with the highest GDP per capita of all states. It also ranks second among the states in terms of average wages. Penang is Malaysia's leading exporter with nearly RM495 billion (US$119.57 billion) in exports in 2024, primarily through the Penang International Airport which is also the nation's second busiest by aircraft movements.
Established by Francis Light in 1786, Penang became part of the Straits Settlements, a British crown colony also comprising Malacca and Singapore. During World War II, Japan occupied Penang, but the British regained control in 1945. Penang was later merged with the Federation of Malaya (now Malaysia), which gained independence in 1957. Penang's economy shifted from entrepôt trade to electronics manufacturing and the tertiary sector throughout the late 20th century.
With 1.74 million residents and a population density of 1,659/km2 (4,300/sq mi) as of 2020, Penang is one of Malaysia’s most densely populated and urbanised states. Seberang Perai is Malaysia’s third-largest city by population. Penang is culturally diverse with a population that includes Chinese, Malays, Indians, Eurasians, Siamese and expatriates.
Penang Island experiences the same climate and weather as any other part of Malaysia. However, since Penang is an island, its temperature may be higher than that on the mainland. Temperatures on the island can reach up to 35 °C. During the day, the temperature ranges from 29 °C to 35 °C, while at night it drops to 26 °C to 29 °C. From June to August, Penang Island is at its hottest, while from April to May and October to November are its wettest periods. Do expect the weather to be pretty hot and sunny.
Tourists attractions are just too many to count. There are the Batu Feringghi Beach, the Gurney Drive, which is a food haven, Tanjung Bungah, Penang Toy Museum, Penang National Park, the Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Hill, and Khoo Kongsi. Other places of attraction are the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Little India Penang, Fort Cornwallis, Clock Tower, Snake Temple, Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR), Penang Museum & Art Gallery, Tanjung City Marina, Tropical Spice Garden, the botanic garden, and Pulau Jerejak.
There is so much to see and do in Penang. The top on the list that you must not miss is taking the trishaw and tour around Georgetown which is a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is the best way to tour around the town. Eating is a must here in Penang. Be sure to try out the myriads of street food and their famous assam laksa and chendol. For one who wants to just unwind, the Batu Ferringhi beach is the place to just sit back and enjoy the breath-taking scenery. The whole of Penang can be view by getting on the cable car up to Penang Hill. This is also an activity not to be missed. Flea markets are aplenty in Penang. Thus, you can shop for them any time. There are also plenty of souvenirs and local products for sale in Penang. Do buy some for your friends at your hometown. Penang has many places of worship. They are also worth the visit. Nightclubs too, come alive at night. If you love to party all night long, come on over to Penang Road.