Category: Places to Visit

Penang Street Ara (Art Murals at Sungai Ara)

The new 3D murals, “Ice Cream Seller” and “Hide and Seek,” have quickly become a popular attraction in Taman Jajar, Sungai Ara. Created by artist Andersen Tan I-Han and unveiled on January 6, 2025, these murals feature local figures, such as an ice cream seller and neighborhood children. This project is part of an initiative to improve the aesthetics and cultural identity of Sungai Ara. The murals have transformed a once-empty space into a vibrant spot for photography, fostering community engagement and pride. There are plans to add more murals in the future to further enhance the area’s appeal as a cultural hub.

Sunway Carnival Penang: 2025 Hari Raya Festive Display

​Sunway Carnival Mall is celebrating the festive spirit of Hari Raya with its EIDisi Manis campaign, running until April 6. This year’s theme honors traditional Malaysian sweet treats like kuih lapis, symbolizing unity and cherished memories across generations. Visitors are welcomed into a Penang village-inspired setting, offering a nostalgic kampung atmosphere that blends cultural heritage with contemporary flair.

Penang Street Art (Kapal Haji @ Acheen Street Mosque)

Acheen Street Mosque (Masjid Melayu (Jamek) Lebuh Acheh) in Penang was founded in 1808 by Tengku Syed Hussain Al-Aidid, an Arab trader from Aceh, Sumatra. What makes it unique is that the mosque not only served as a place of worship but also as a center for trade and diplomacy among the Arab, Indian, and Malay Muslim communities in early Penang. The surrounding area, known as “Malay Town”, became a vibrant hub for merchants and pilgrims heading to Mecca.

An interesting connection between Acheen Street Mosque’s minaret and a lighthouse is that some believe the octagonal minaret was designed to resemble a beacon for travelers—just like a lighthouse guiding ships. Since the mosque was historically linked to Hajj pilgrims and traders, its tower-like minaret might have symbolized guidance and direction, much like how a lighthouse helps sailors navigate.

Queensbay Mall : 2025 Hari Raya Festive Display

Hari Raya celebrations are in full swing at Queensbay Mall with Eksplorasi Raya. This year, the mall transforms into a vibrant showcase of Malaysia’s East Coast heritage, bringing the charm of coastal traditions to life.

It is a warm and cheerful festive ambience inspired by the rich culture of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang. From beautifully decorated spaces to a seaside beachscape with tents, visitors can enjoy a cozy and nostalgic Hari Raya journey along with various cultural performances scheduled for the month.

Gurney Plaza : 2025 Hari Raya Festive Display

Gurney Plaza’s Hari Raya theme this year is Kemilauan Aidilfitri, a celebration of abundance, tradition, and togetherness.

The mall’s atrium is transformed into a mesmerizing little kampung (village) where a golden paddy field glows under twinkling lights, symbolizing prosperity and the spirit of Raya. Above, Wau Bulan kites gracefully soar, bringing back nostalgic memories of childhood and open fields filled with warmth and unity. The scene embraces the festive glow of Aidilfitri as it celebrates home, heritage, and the joy of the season in a truly enchanting setting.

Penang Street Art (A Tanjong Life Mural)

An art mural titled Tanjong Life drawn by the late Penang artist Azmi Hussin, located on a wall of a shophouse at Clarke Street (Lebuh Clarke).

The late Azmi Hussin is a Penang-based artist known for his vibrant and humorous caricatures that capture the essence of Malaysian culture and daily life. His works often depict nostalgic street scenes, traditional trades, and local personalities, reflecting Penang’s rich heritage. Azmi gained recognition for his signature comic-style illustrations and has published several books, including Tanjong Life, which humorously portrays life in Penang. His talent has earned him multiple awards, and he continues to inspire with his unique artistic storytelling.

Lebuh Acheh (Acheen Street) at Night

Acheen Street, also known as Acheh Street (Lebuh Acheh), is located in the heart of George Town’s heritage zone. It was named in honor of the Acehnese community that once resided there.

This historic street is also home to the renowned Acheen Street Mosque, a distinctive and historically significant place of worship. Recognizable by its iconic minaret, the mosque stands at the junction of Acheen Street and Cannon Street.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Acheen Street was once a bustling hub for traders and pilgrims traveling to Mecca? In the 19th century, it played a key role as a stopover for Hajj pilgrims from the region, thanks to the Acehnese merchants who facilitated their journey.

Chinese New Year in Penang: Kek Lok Si Temple at Night

Kek Lok Si, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, is a stunning hilltop sanctuary in Penang, blending Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architectural styles. Famous for its multi-tiered Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas and the towering Kuan Yin statue, the temple offers breathtaking views of George Town and beyond. Pilgrims and tourists alike visit to admire its intricate carvings, vibrant prayer halls, and serene gardens, making it both a spiritual haven and a photographer’s dream.

During Chinese New Year, the temple transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights at night, adding to its enchanting charm.

Penang Snake Temple (2025 Year of Snake)

The Penang Snake Temple, also known as Temple of the Azure Cloud, is a unique Chinese temple located in Sungai Kluang, Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia. Built in 1805, it is dedicated to the Buddhist deity Chor Soo Kong, a Qing-era monk known for his healing powers and compassion for all living beings, including snakes. Legend has it that after the temple’s completion, snakes appeared on their own and have since inhabited the temple.

The temple is famous for its resident pit vipers, which are believed to be “tamed” by the deity’s presence. Visitors can observe these snakes coiled around statues and altars, seemingly docile. The temple also houses a snake museum and breeding pit.