The five-foot way is a covered walkway found in front of many shophouses in Malaysia, especially in places like George Town, Penang. True to its name, it’s typically about five feet wide and provides shelter from sun and rain, allowing people to walk comfortably along rows of shops. It’s a unique blend of architecture and function—often lively with activity, from street vendors to chatting locals—and reflects the colonial and multicultural heritage of Malaysian towns.
Beautiful heritage style tiles with striking geometrical patterns adorning the five foot way of the Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce building in Light Street, George Town.
A five foot way in George Town adorned with old vintage Chinese style lanterns.
Five foot ways are the common architecture features of George Town’s pre-war heritage houses. The term “five-foot” usually describes the width of the sheltered walkways or covered sidewalks of the houses.
Held on the 16th September every year, Malaysia Day commemorates the establishment of the Malaysian federation on the same date in 1963. The date marked the joining together of Malaya, North Borneo, Sarawak and Singapore to form Malaysia (although Singapore was later removed two years after being a part of Malaysia).
Carnarvon Street, George Town.