Eve-Wiki | Penang information -- World Atlas & Encyclopedia

Penang information

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Shelter

37.00$

Food

2.74$

Safety

0.7

Explore

Uncover the captivating allure of Penang, Malaysia's crown jewel. Venture into the heart of George Town, the vibrant capital city, where a treasure trove of architectural wonders awaits. Marvel at the exquisite pre-Second World War houses and shophouses, each with its own unique story to tell. Let the rich history and cultural heritage of Penang envelop you as you wander through its charming streets. With its irresistible charm and timeless beauty, Penang beckons you to embark on a journey of discovery and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Understand
Map & Climate

Understand

Welcome to Penang, a captivating island that was part of the Malay sultanate of Kedah until 1786. It was then acquired by Captain Francis Light, who built a fort in the present-day Georgetown. This island, along with Malacca and Singapore, formed the renowned British Straits Settlements. The name "Penang" originated from the Malay word "Pinang," which refers to the betel nut tree. Translated literally as "betel nut island," Penang was initially called Pulau Ka-satu or "First Island." Later, it was renamed Prince of Wales Island to commemorate the birthday of the future King George IV. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Penang Island earned the nickname "The Pearl of the Orient." Georgetown, the capital city, was named after King George III of Great Britain. Today, Penang Island shines as Malaysia's second largest city, boasting the highest population density in the country. Interestingly, Penang is the only state where the ethnic Chinese form the majority. Despite its small size, Penang has the third-largest economy among the states of Malaysia, after Selangor and Johor. Although the cargo trade has shifted to Port Klang and Singapore, Penang has flourished in the fields of tourism and electronics manufacturing. The island is home to numerous multinational corporations, including Intel, AMD, Dell, and Seagate. Its Free Trade Zones have contributed to Penang's status as a Cyber-City. Notably, Georgetown and Malacca are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognized for their rich cultural heritage. [Link to Penang on Travelhood](/Penang-Island-locid_58905)