Penang Escapade

CEBU, Philippines -  Surely everyone has seen this tagline on television, “Malaysia, Truly Asia”. It is catchy and unique, inviting and invigorating. It whets the appetite to discover and explore the island’s wealth of attractions and holiday options.

As if on cue, Ajish Morris, General Manager of Silkair was on the phone line inviting a few media practitioners to a familiarization tour of Penang and Kuala Lumpur, through Singapore.

Within days, we found ourselves at the VIP airport lounge. We were warmly welcomed by Ajish Morris and Allen Andre Suarez – Reservations and Ticketing Officer and our official escort.

Silkair, we discovered, flies one of the youngest fleets in the Asian region. It puts much emphasis on providing unequalled, excellent service. The carrier's flair is experienced through both its efficient cabin crew and the exquisite cuisine.

Our first destination was Penang, located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It has long been known as one of Southeast Asias's finest destinations. Allow me to enumerate why it is so.

Georgetown, the capital, was named after King George III of Great Britain. It is full of significant cultural relics and a slew of historical buildings built in a variety of styles. They include the Chinese clan houses, mosques, churches, Chinese temples, Indian temples, shops, the fort and many more. These architectures bear witness to the multi ethnic settlers like the Malays, Chinese, Indians, Arabs, Burmese and Europeans who have lived harmoniously in Penang.

The Wat Chayamangkalaram is one of the many Buddhist temples in the area and is famous for its reclining, gold plated Buddha, measuring 33 meters long and is believed to be one of the largest in the world.

Located by the sea at the Esplanade is Fort Cornwallis built in 1786 by the British under Captain Francis Light. It has a small lighthouse, a chapel and a gunpowder bunker within its walls. Several old cannons, including one that is believed by some locals to have magical fertility powers can still be found at the fort. There are also small artifacts recovered from archaeological diggings inside the fort.

Clan Jetties are unique Chinese settlements along Weld Quay, with homes built along wooden piers that extend to the Penang Channel. It has been in existence since the 19th century. The residents of each clan jetty are descendants of Chinese immigrants that reflect the distinct historical and geographical lineage of its populace.

Penang Bridge is one of the longest bridges in the world with an overall length of 13.5 kilometers (8.4 km over water). It connects the island to the mainland (Seberang Perai) and offers great views of the port and city. There is no toll for vehicles heading to the mainland but vehicles headed to the island must pay a toll fee. The bridge opened to the public in 1985 and a second, even longer bridge is due to be ready by 2012.

The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity. It is one of the oldest temples in Penang with its history dating back to 1801. The gateway features magnificently sculptured gods and goddesses and 38 Hindu deities.

The Guan Yin Temple also known as the Goddess of Mercy is the oldest Chinese temple in Penang. The main hall is supported by dragon-entwined pillars carved from a type of green stone. The statue of kuan Yin as a serenely composed woman with 18 arms sits in an inner chamber.

Penang has a maze of narrow streets that offer an insight into the past where little has changed . The best way to get lost among joss stick shops, fresh noodle makers and other heritage sites is by the trishaw, a three-wheeled human powered vehicle whose drivers are also knowledgeable tour guides.

Penang offers a wide selection of accommodations. There are guesthouses in the UNESCO heritage site for those who wish to savor the old charms of George Town. There are also hotels and resorts near the beaches and hills for those who like to commune with nature. Highly recommended are Cititel Hotel with its strategic location in the heart of George Town.

It offers affordability and business-friendly services that mark the epitome of Penang's warm hospitality. The six-storey Hard Rock Hotel is at the famous Batu Ferringhi area. The rooms and suites are mostly with beach frontage. It breaks the mould of conventional beach resorts, bringing the connotation to a whole new level. 

Penang being a unique state in Malaysia has truly an extensive range of attractions for tourists-rich history, diverse culture, fantastic food, bargain shopping, lush nature, fun-filled beaches and cozy resorts. Simply more than enough reasons to visit Penang. And why not via Silkair? (FREEMAN)