CHOOSING the best vacation spot during the holidays can be a challenge.
However, Penang remains a popular favourite for many with its limitless attractions and offers.
From discovering the wonders of science to exploring one of the most beautiful natural places in the world, Penang has it all!
Farah Abd Malik, 40, from Sarawak, brought her children to Penang for the first time.
“Penang’s delicious street food is definitely on our list. Besides satisfying our craves, we are also planning to visit several places such as Penang Hill, The TOP, and others. There are so many places to visit and so much to do!” she said when met at The TOP in Komtar today.
Also spotted were Lim Chee Keong, 68, and his family.
Lim, a Penangite, said although Penang is a small state, it is full of attractions which could cater to a wide range of visitors.
“We have many places of worship such as the Kek Lok Si Temple, the floating mosque, or the Waterfall Hilltop Temple. Those who love the beach can visit Batu Ferringhi, while those who love nature can check out Penang Hill and the Penang Botanic Gardens.
“And everyone knows that Penang is famous for its street food!” he said.
Tech Dome chief executive officer Khoo Boo Wooi said the science centre would be organising the Lumine Science school holiday camps for primary school pupils (aged 6 to 12) during this school holiday.
“We want to boost the children’s interest in science when they are young. The holiday camps will be held this Saturday (Feb 25), on March 11 and on March 18.
“The pupils can take part in two workshops and learn how to make slimes that can glow in the dark and learn about luminescence and fluorescence,” he said.
Khoo said Tech Dome is bouncing back from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We are receiving a constant flow of visitors. We received about 300 visitors per day on normal weekdays and about 500 visitors per day on weekends.
“Sometimes the figure can exceed 1,000 visitors per day during holidays,” he said.
Tech Dome is the first science discovery centre in Penang with over 120 interactive science and technology exhibits. It also houses the world’s first free-standing vertical drop slide – the G-Drop – for visitors to experience the thrilling exhibit!
Visitors can also check out other amazing attractions in Penang:
The Rainbow Skywalk at The TOP Penang
Take in the picturesque view of George Town and beyond at George Town’s highest point – the open-air Rainbow Skywalk on Level 68, Komtar. This amazing feature is touted to be the world’s first tower curved skywalk.
The Granite Luxury Hotel
Stay at the hotel and experience its award-winning swimming pool. The hotel’s swimming pool, The Mirage, made its way into the Malaysia Book of Records in July last year (2022) as the ‘Highest Cantilevered Acrylic Bottom Swimming Pool’ at 49.5m.
Gama Supermarket and Departmental Store
This home-grown iconic supermarket entered the Malaysia Book of Records in May last year (2022) as the ‘Oldest Supermarket & Departmental Store’ in the country. The supermarket was launched in 1967 with the name ‘Pulau Pinang Supermarket’ at Chowrasta Market in Penang Road. Later in 1980, the supermarket moved to its current premises in Jalan Datuk Keramat.
ESCAPE Penang
Experience the world’s longest inner tube water slide at the ESCAPE theme park in Teluk Bahang. The water slide called The Longest, received a Guinness World Record (GWR) certification in September 2019 for being ‘The Longest Tube Water Slide’ at 1,111m.
Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
Touted to be the world’s first tropical butterfly and insect sanctuary, Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm has attracted more than five million locals and international visitors over the years. It has become the pride and joy of the state since it was founded in 1986.
Penang Hill
Penang Hill has been a must-visit destination for tourists who visit Penang. A trip to Penang Hill will not be complete without taking the iconic funicular service and seeing the world’s steepest tunnel track!
The Habitat at Penang Hill
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get up close with nature at The Habitat at Penang Hill. Here, visitors can take a walk on the Langur Way Canopy Walk and check out the spectacular views The Habitat has to offer. The canopy walk (touted to be the world’s highest altitude stressed ribbon bridge) has multiple viewing platforms, spanning about 230m in length and standing at 40m above the forest floor.
Share with us your favourite holiday attractions in Penang!
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat and courtesy of the respective contributors