Nestled in the heart of Bukit Mertajam’s old town heritage street, Hung Kung Kong Hoay stands as a significant Chinese clan association with deep cultural roots. This historic landmark reflects the rich heritage and traditions of the local Chinese community, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts exploring Bukit Mertajam’s vibrant heritage area.
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Penang at the Penaga district, Kampung Agong is a hidden gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the rustic charm of traditional Malaysian village life. This quaint agro-themed park, located in the tranquil area of Seberang Perai, is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.
Kampung Agong consists of a vast area made up picturesque coconut groves, charming bamboo houses, and various iconic swing sets that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding paddy fields.
Various activities can be enjoyed at Kampung Agong, from cycling through the scenic countryside to picnic and horse riding, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and experience the simple pleasures of life in a traditional Malaysian kampung (village).
For more details, do visit its website at https://kampungagong.com/
Also known as Pek Kong Cheng Hawker Centre, this hawker food centre is a popular food destination located near the Tua Pek Kong Cheng Temple at Jalan Pasar in Bukit Mertajam, Penang. It offers a wide variety of local Malaysian street food, including favorites like char koay teow, curry mee, chicken rice, and Hokkien mee. The hawker center is known for its lively atmosphere, with many food stalls and seating areas that attract both locals and tourists. It’s a great place to experience authentic Penang cuisine and the local food culture.
The Tua Pek Kong Cheng Temple in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, is a significant Taoist temple dedicated to Tua Pek Kong, a deity worshipped for protection, health, and prosperity. The temple is known for its rich history, dating back over a century, and its vibrant cultural practices, particularly during the Hungry Ghost Festival.
The temple’s architecture reflects traditional Chinese design, with intricate carvings and decorations. It serves as a focal point for community gatherings and religious ceremonies, attracting both devotees and tourists interested in Penang’s cultural heritage.
The Hungry Ghost Festival in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, has been celebrated for over 130 years. This festival, rooted in Taoist and Buddhist beliefs, honors the spirits of deceased ancestors who are believed to roam the earth during the seventh month of the Chinese lunar calendar. The event features various rituals, including offerings of food, paper money, and entertainment like Chinese opera and puppet shows, to appease these spirits. The festival remains a vibrant cultural tradition, attracting both locals and tourists to experience its unique customs.
The festival also hosts the giant effigy of Tai Su Yeah (Chinese version of King of Hades) which will then be paraded in the middle of Jalan Pasar on the night of Aug 20, where it will be burned and “sent back to the other world”, a ritual witnessed by thousands.
Design Village in Penang celebrating Chinese New Year with a stunning display of traditional decorations. Embracing the Year of the Dragon, the vibrant red lanterns and intricate ornaments adorn the outdoor spaces, creating a mesmerizing ambiance that transports visitors to ancient China. The celebration is not just about the festive allure but also a journey through the rich history of Chinese architecture. The intricate details of the decorations reflect the grandeur of ancient structures, offering a unique blend of cultural appreciation and festive cheer.
Christmas decorations at Sunway Carnival Mall in Seberang Jaya, Penang, with the mall celebrating this year’s theme of “My Christmas Story”.
A breathtaking view from Penang Hill showing the eastern side of Penang. One might spot the Bukit Mertajam hill at the distance.
Butterworth Bagan Art Alley Walk.
As part of the effort to rejuvenate the old Bagan town in Butterworth, this area is being developed as Butterworth’s very own art space. This ‘outdoor art gallery’ hosts various art works or murals from local artists and is organized by Zart Inventive.
Google Map Location to the street art area: https://goo.gl/maps/r89hFHGByfJ2
Various murals depicting the history of Butterworth and its local economy can be found on the walls of the Butterworth Art Alley or Butterworth Art Walk. This series of arts were painted by local artists.
A collaboration between Think City and Zaini Zainul to kick start the local art scene, this small alley, which is right next to Lodge 18 Hotel, was converted to an outdoor gallery of art works. The local artists who contributed to this ‘art gallery’ are Shazwan Jalil, Syamsul Addenno, Suhaimi Ali, Hadi Ramli, Nazmi Jamarudin, Amir Andha and Azmi Husin, along with a monkey sculpture created from mesh-wires by Shahidan Muhamad and Zaini Zainul.
Lodge 18 Hotel is located near the main road of Jalan Kampong Gajah in Butterworth, beside the Dewan Dato’ Haji Ahmad Badawi field and not far from the ferry and train terminals.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/r89hFHGByfJ2
More murals here:
