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Where to worship? – The top 3 local beliefs and cultural attractions

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As with other Peninsular states, Islam is the official religion of the State of Penang. Even so, other religions are allowed to be practised within the state, contributing to its cosmopolitan society.  As of 2010, Muslims constituted over 44% of Penang's population, followed by the Buddhists at nearly 36% and the Hindus at almost 9%. Notably, smaller communities of Chinese Muslims and Indian Muslims have long existed within George Town, while most Buddhists in Penang follow either Theravada or Mahayana traditions, although the Vajrayana school is becoming increasingly popular. A significant multiracial community of Christians, of both Catholic and Protestant sects, also exist in Penang, consisting of ethnic Chinese, Indians, Eurasians, East Malaysian migrants and expatriates. Meanwhile, more than 10% of the state's Chinese populace adhere to Taoism and other Chinese folk religions. One particular street in George Town exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of the v...

What to do? – The top 3 places to keep your memorial steps & shots

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Soak in the sun at one of the many beaches, explore the quaint nooks and crannies of George Town, feast on delicacies from hawker street stalls, shop at the many quaint night markets and much more. Offering the best of Asia, Penang 's sights and sounds reflect the colourful heritage of her many races and the pride of her people. Be it lush tropical gardens or ornately designed temples and unique heritage buildings, Penang will give you a glimpse into a world where nature, tradition and history blend into a rich cultural tapestry. Live like a local and see what laid back Penangites love to indulge in - travel in trishaws and shop at the many quaint night markets. Be adventurous and explore! Top 1. Activities at Batu Ferringhi Batu Ferringhi is famed for its beaches. Acres and acres of smooth, sandy beaches along its coastline provide the perfect avenue for a variety of beach sports and water sports activities, with a few companies along its length offe...

The top 3 Penang’s inheritances – Heritages of Penang

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Top 1. Penang Peranakan Mansion Penang Peranakan Mansion is Penang’s way of introducing people to the historical Peranakan culture. A recreation of a typical rich 19th century Baba home, the elegantly restored museum is a testament to the Baba-Nyonya cultural revival and displays over 1,000 pieces of antiques and collectibles. Housed in one of Penang’s heritage mansions, it is truly an ornate sight to behold. Built at the end of the 19th century, inside the Penang Peranakan Mansion you’ll find an eclectic mix of English tiles, Scottish ironworks and continental European art and furniture as well as Chinese carved-wood panels. Besides the traditionally crafted memorabilia, antiques, and artefacts filling up the space be sure to check out the elaborate screen doors and mother-of-pearl furniture with beautiful carvings. A beautiful intermingling of different antiques and artefacts, the Penang Peranakan Mansion was once the residence and office of Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwe...

The top 3 places to go shopping spree – Malls to shop

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From malls with exciting basement dance clubs and live puzzle rooms to marina frontage shopping centres and onsite museums, our list of the Top 3 Shopping Malls in Penang certainly has something for everyone. Though the street market scene in Penang receives a lot of media coverage, we are fans of these air-conditioned retail-havens because more often than not, there are many deals to be had for the serious bargain hunter. Proving that Penang’s retail landscape is almost as comprehensive as Kuala Lumpur, most of these malls house designer brands that offer serious discounts, especially if you visit during sale season. So read on to find out more about the great shopping opportunities during your Penang vacation. Top 1. Gurney Plaza  Gurney Plaza is a waterfront shopping mall in Penang. Opened in 2001, it has three anchor tenants: Parkson Grand, the 12-screen Golden Screen Cinemas and Cold Storage supermarket. Additionally, the nine-storey mall houses over 380 stor...

What to eat? – The top 3 signature food of Penang

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Penang gourmet ranges from street food to fine dining but her myriad of flavours are definitely unique to the island state. With each race offering their own traditional fare, foodies will be spoilt for choice. Although every culture has their signature dishes, they are also influenced by other cooking styles and have managed to come up with their own special creations that represent a beautiful blend of tastes and spices. Let's see what's Penang best offers. Top 1a. Penang Rojak - Hock Seng Rojak King If you order for takeaway, their Rojak paste and cut fruits are packed separately in different plastic containers. There are two types of Rojak in Penang. Not to be confused with Rojak Mamak, Penang Rojak is typically referred to the mixed fruit salad. The biggest novelty here is the “Har-Koh” or better known as prawn/shrimp paste. It has to be thick, dark and flavourful, since watery version is going to make your Rojak turns into a sad-lookin...