An art mural found at an alley of Beach Street, featuring the work of Kenji Chai, a local Malaysian artist.
Sights in Penang : Sungai Satu Outfall
The Sungai Satu outfall is one of Malaysia’s first two sea outfalls at Batu Ferringhi beach. Stretching 120 meters out into the sea from Sungai Satu and Sungai Batu Ferringhi, these structures are designed to channel river water into the sea while also acting as scenic viewing platforms for visitors. Positioned 300 meters apart and standing two meters high, the outfalls will allow beachgoers to enjoy panoramic sea views, with waves reaching the top steps during high tide.
Sights in Penang : A Lone Boat
Sights in Penang : Chin Farm Waterfalls @ Batu Ferringhi
The rather hidden cascade of Chin Farm is tucked deep within the lush, hilly terrain of Batu Ferringhi, Penang, offering a refreshing escape from the bustle of the nearby beach town. This natural gem features multiple tiers of waterfalls, with cool, crystal-clear spring water flowing gently down rocky slopes, surrounded by dense greenery and the sounds of the forest. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for those seeking solitude or a quiet nature walk.
Back in the 1980s and 1990s, Chin Farm was a beloved local retreat, often bustling with families enjoying picnics, dips in the pools, and the simple joy of being close to nature. Though now less frequented and slightly off the radar, it still holds nostalgic value for many Penangites and remains a hidden treasure waiting to be rediscovered by adventurous hikers and nature lovers.
Sights in Penang : North-East Skyline of Penang
Sights in Penang : A Bougainvillea Tree at Kampung Kolam
In Malaysia, one of the most eye-catching plants you’ll often see brightening up fences, gates, and roadsides is the bougainvillea, known locally as pokok bunga kertas. Its name, which translates to “paper flower,” perfectly describes the thin, papery texture of its vibrant bracts that come in shades of pink, purple, red, orange, and white. Despite its delicate appearance, this hardy plant thrives in the tropical heat with minimal care, making it a favorite for gardens and public spaces. Whether it’s cascading over a trellis or standing tall like a small tree, the bougainvillea adds a burst of cheerful color wherever it grows—an unmistakable part of the Malaysian landscape.
Penang Street Art (The ‘Sad Art’ Cement Eclipses Tiny Figure Miniatures)
During the George Town Festival, Spanish artist Isaac Cordal brought a unique touch to Penang by placing around 20 tiny cement sculptures—known as Cement Eclipses—throughout George Town. These small, somber-looking figures, about 17–20 cm tall, can be found perched on walls, ledges, and electrical boxes, often high above eye level. Blending quietly into the city’s heritage architecture, they invite passersby to pause, look up, and discover hidden corners of the city—like a little art treasure hunt tucked into the urban landscape.
Here is the list of locations where you can hunt/find these tiny art sculptures (note: some may no longer be there anymore or removed):
- Armenian Street Junction (opposite the famous bicycle mural)
- Biscotti Cafe, Beach Street
- Warehouse 129, Beach Street
- Fuku (side alley of the building), Beach Street
- The Courtyard, Beach Street
- Vietnamese Phở & Coffee @ Lean Thye 1951 (building’s back), Ah Quee Street
- Lebuh Ah Quee Junction
- 56, Lorong Pasar
- Penang Straits and Oriental Museum, Stewart Lane
- 39, Love Lane
- 33, Love Lane
- Journal George Town, Muntri Street
- Green-colored Townhouses along Magazine Road
- Curios-City Penang, Victoria Street
- U.A.B Building Interior (closed at the time of this hunt)
Sights in Penang : Trishaws at Stewart Lane
The Penang trishaw, which looks like a small buggy attached to a bicycle, first appeared around 1935–1936 with about 50 units managed by the city. It used to be a common way for locals to get around, but today it’s mostly a fun ride for tourists—complete with bright neon lights, music, and guided trips through George Town’s narrow streets and famous murals.
Views from Kampung Kolam
Penang Reclining Buddha Thai Temple (Wat Chayamangkalaram)
Wat Chayamangkalaram Thai Buddhist Temple in Penang, located along Burma Road in George Town, is famed for housing one of the world’s largest reclining Buddha statues, measuring an impressive 33 meters in length. Founded in 1845 on land granted by Queen Victoria to the Thai community, the temple is a vibrant symbol of Thai Theravāda Buddhism in Malaysia. With its ornate golden pagodas, intricately decorated prayer halls, and serene garden, it draws visitors for both worship and sightseeing. The reclining Buddha’s posture represents the historical Buddha at the moment of his final passing into Nirvana, symbolizing peace and detachment from worldly suffering.
Interesting Fact: Hidden within the base of the giant reclining Buddha are niches that serve as columbariums—small compartments that hold the ashes of devotees. So while the statue symbolizes peace and Nirvana, it quite literally rests above the remains of those seeking eternal serenity, blending spiritual symbolism with a practical function.