Known as the �Pearl of the Orient�, it lies off the NW coast of Malaysia. Consisting of the Island of Penang and a strip of mainland opposite the island known as Seberang Perai (or Province Wellesley) and separated by a channel 3km wide at its closest point, they are linked by the 13.5km Penang Bridge. The islands northern coast boasts of beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife.


Its Capital, Georgetown, has arguably the most elegant British colonial buildings in the country, and a plethora of hawker stalls and restaurants make local food an attraction. In the old quarter of Georgetown, trishaws still ply the narrow roads, and the vehicles are popular for sightseeing rides. The inner city�s unique character is a result of the coming together of Penang's diverse heritage, traditions and communities, providing all Penangites with a sense of pride and belonging.

The state is geographically and administratively divided into two sections - Penang Island and Seberang Perai what used to be known as Province Wellesley. Butterworth, the main town in Province Wellesley, lies along the Perai River estuary and faces George Town which lies 3 km (2 miles) across the channel to the east.


History
Penang was once part of the Kedah Sultanate. Locals knew Penang Island as �Pulau Kasatu�. Francis Light established Penang as a British trading post for the East India Co. in 1786 for trade between India, China and Archipelago. In 1800 Light also acquired the strip of land between the Krian and Muda rivers. Francis Light named the island Prince of Wales Island (after the heir to the British throne); the capital George Town (after King George III) and the strip of land, Province Wellesley (after the Marquis of Wellesley). Trade quickly grew, especially in pepper, nutmeg, clove and gambier, and the islands original population of 50 people swelled due to the influx of immigrants and merchants.
Administratively Penang was part of India before becoming a member of the Straits Settlements together with Malacca and Singapore.


Getting There
Penang is linked to the mainland by air, sea, and road (via the Penang Bridge). MAS, the national carrier, links Penang International Airport to Singapore, Bangkok, Medan, (Indonesia), Xiamen (China) and Madras. MAS also has more than 20 flights daily between Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
The Penang Bridge, links Seberang Prai on the Mainland to Gelugor on the island. Toll is levied on vehicles when entering the island but not when they leave. From Butterworth, ferries transport both passengers and vehicles to and from the island.