Kek Lok Si: A City of Lights

Every night until 27 February 2014, the Kek Lok Si temple complex will be illuminated with decorative lanterns and lights in celebration of the Chinese New Year. One of the most visited site on the island, this lighting event is held annually during the Chinese New Year.

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Penang Mainland: St. Anne Church

The famous St. Anne Church is located at a 20-acres land in Bukit Mertajam, Penang. The Roman Catholic church was founded in 1846 and its first chapel was built on top of the hill. The church expanded as years passed with an increase of Catholic populations in the state, with major developments during the 1990s to 2000s.

In 2002, another new church was built which is one of the largest churches in Malaysia. The church was built incorporating Minangkabau element such as its roofs. An avenue named Dataran St. Anne was also constructed in front of the church. Various facilities were also built such as dormitories for visiting pilgrims, parish office, parish community centre and presbytery. In 2006, the church installed the ‘Statues of Passion’ at a cost of RM600,000 depicting the stations of the cross.

The real feast day of St Anne is on 26 July, but it is usually celebrated for ten days at Bukit Mertajam, either on the real day or immediately after the real day. The celebrations include a candlelight procession, a nine-day novena and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. During these days, pilgrims from all over the country, including neighboring countries, will be travelling here.

Location: Google Map

Penang Isle: The Esplanade

The Esplanade area is a popular tourist location at George Town as it houses the Fort Cornwallis, the City Halls as well as an old lighthouse which overlooks the Penang Harbour. The large Esplanade field is also the venue of major festivals held at the island (such as New Year celebration, cultural show, and the Bon Odori festival). The seafront of the Esplanade is a popular place to fish day or night while during the night, there is a foodcourt nearby selling local delicacies.

Location at Google Map.

Penang Isle: Reclining Buddha Temple (Wat Chayamangkalaram)

Situated opposite just across the road from the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple lies the Thai Reclining Buddha (or Sleeping Buddha) Temple.  The world’s third longest reclining Buddha is built within the temple.  Outside the temple walls, statues of mythical beings can be found just like the Burmese temple.

Google Map Link: Click Here