Multicultural George Town, Penang
On July 7, 2008, George Town, Penang was inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The built and living environment of this historic city reflect the unique mosaic of multi-cultural elements from the Malays, Indians, Chinese, Arabs, Siamese, Burmese and Europeans to create an architectural and cultural townscape unparalleled in the world today.
In George Town you could walk down a street and within a block see a Mosque, Catholic Church, Buddhist Temple, and Hindu Temple. This is the place to also enjoy delicious traditional food from Malaysia, China, India, and many more Asian countries.
Penang’s colorful, multi-ethnic society is dominated by three communities: Malay, Chinese, and Indian. Together, they make up more than 90% of the state population. Indians and Chinese immigrated to Penang since the XVI and XVII centuries.
It was the quest for spices that brought the Europeans to the east and led directly to the establishment of the British settlement in Penang in 1786. This was a labor intensive industry which forged cooperation between the Europeans and the Chinese because the latter could supply the much needed manpower to work on the plantations.
Penang possesses a natural deep water harbor. One of the major sea lanes of the world, Penang enjoyed success as a regional trading center since its establishment as a free port of call in 1786.
The Japanese invasion of Malaysia began on December 7, 1941. British forces left Penang and began their full retreat to Singapore. Penang subsequently came under Japanese military rule for three years and eight months. During those years, the people of Penang experienced the harsh realities of war which left an indelible scar on the survivors.
George Town, Penang is now a living testimony of history, tolerance, and resiliency, where different cultures have co-existed and/or connected through inter-marriages. From one street to the next, this city is full of temples, food, and people of different beliefs, races, and cultures that have mastered the skill of living in harmony for hundreds of years. By visiting this town we felt inspired and hopeful that people can live together while respecting their differences. It is a dream come true and a real example to humanity.
