Penang is a Malaysian island located in the Strait of Malacca. The capital of the state is George Town. It is also home to a number of important religious sites. Some of these include the Buddhist Kek Lok Si Temple and the Hindu Sri Mahamariamman Temple. Other notable sites include the Chinese Goddess of Mercy Temple and the colonial Fort Cornwallis.
History
Penang Island is located in the Strait of Malacca. The island was first sighted by Chinese explorers in the 15th century. In the mid-16th century, English merchants began to trade in the area.
Eventually, English and Dutch colonists took over the island. However, in the 19th century, the island became a major commercial trading center. Trade was driven by pepper and spices. Moreover, Indian merchants brought their own culture to the island.
Due to its rich agricultural potential, Penang was used as a base to dominate the spice trade in Southeast Asia. Its location near the sea gave the British a strategic advantage. This led to the development of a free port.
George Town was established as a crown colony. In 1826, George Town was made the capital of the Straits Settlements.
Political parties
Penang Island is a vibrant and spirited part of Malaysia. In the last few decades, the island has developed into Malaysia’s most urbanized and cosmopolitan region. A thriving civil society has shaped the island’s politics.
The state government in Penang is dominated by the Democratic Action Party (DAP), which has been in power for 14 years. It has earned a good reputation as a competent administrator. DAP’s policies have helped bring economic growth to the state.
The party has a long history of political participation. The party has 15 active branches in Penang. Gerakan contested the 2008 general election as a component of the Barisan Nasional coalition. But Gerakan failed to make a dent in DAP’s numbers.
The opposition party has threatened legal action against the BN-controlled state government. On the other hand, it is a minority party in the national parliament.
Economy
The economy of Penang Island in Malaysia has a very long history. It is a largely manufacturing and service oriented economy. There is little in the way of agriculture.
However, the island is a popular tourist destination. Tourism is the main source of income for the state’s population. In 2010, Penang’s per capita income was 17 percent above the national average.
The economy of Penang Island is well supported by the government. It was the first state to create its own state economic development corporation, similar to that of Japan. A network of four free trade zones (FTZs) was set up in the early 1970s. These industrial parks were designed to bring together complementary services.
One of the key strategies for the state’s economic development was to encourage local firms to diversify their activities. Agribusiness, electronics, and bio-technology were some of the key sectors targeted by the state’s PDC.
Culture
The culture of Penang Island is a melting pot of cultures, religions and cuisine. Its fusion of various cultures creates a unique heritage. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Penang offers endless possibilities for visitors. In addition to its world-renowned gastronomy, the city offers a rich cultural experience.
One of the most famous events in the Penang culture is the Giant Flags Procession, held every year on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month. This ancient art form is an ancient Chinese ritual, which is still practiced today. During the procession, effigies of the tiger are carried through the streets.
As part of the festivities, a lion dance is performed. The Chinese associate the lion dance with good luck and strength. However, the Penang lion dance is a distinctive Malaysian version.
Food
If you’re planning a trip to Penang, you’ll want to take advantage of the delicious food on the island. The local cuisine is diverse, with Chinese and Hakka influences.
Food on the island is popular with both Malaysians and international visitors. It’s also cheap and available at many restaurants. Whether you’re looking for breakfast or a savoury meal, there’s plenty of choice.
One of the best ways to try Penang cuisine is to visit the hawker centres. These are open all day and night. They’re a fun way to get an authentic taste of the city’s cuisine, as well as a chance to see some of the famous hawkers in action.
Nasi Kandar, or rice with curry, is a traditional dish in the state. It is a light steamed rice dish served with a wide variety of curries and accompaniments.