Tag: old

Penang Isle: Malayan Railway Building

Many Penang people today may not know that this building was once the Malayan Railway Building (yes, there used to be a railway station on the island). The building currently known as Wisma Kastam houses the state Customs Department. It was formerly the Malayan Railway Building located alongside trading offices and warehouses built in the 20th century.

Back then, the Malayan Railway Building was believed to be the only railway station in the world without a rail. Hence, instead of having platforms or trains, the station had administrative offices, a ticketing booth and a first-class Railways Restaurant with Bar and Grill. Passengers would be buying their tickets (which would include the ferry fees) at the station and then boarded the Railway Ferry Steamers to the mainland to catch the train.

Penang Isle: A Morning at Chowrasta Market

A famous and popular market in Penang, one may find quite a lot of stuff from the numerous traders at Chowrasta Market such as groceries, fish, meat, vegetables, fruits and even clothing. Locals prefer this market for its cheap prices and variety. The wet market opens early in the morning, and at the upper floors of the market’s building, one may find old bookstores selling used books at bargain prices. Chowrasta Market is located at Lower Penang Road, George Town.