Penang State Museum

Step back in time at the Penang State Museum and see how the city’s cultural, physical and political identity has changed since the days of Sir Francis Light, the founder of the British colony in Penang in the 1800s. A series of photographs, complemented by first-hand accounts of key events, paint a vivid picture of the city’s history. A wide array of artifacts, including a collection of antiques that once belonged to prominent Chinese Straits families, help bring Penang’s history to life.

This museum was founded in 1964, though the former school house it inhabits was built in 1821. High arches and tall white columns exemplify Penang’s fine architectural features. The building is divided into two sections: a gallery featuring numerous collections of work by local and international artists, and the exhibits charting the history of the city.

The photographs chronicling Penang’s story are a good place to start exploring the museum. Don’t miss the series on the Penang Riots of 1867, or the pictures detailing Penang’s capture by the Japanese during World War II. To see Penang as the early British colonists would have, check out the oil paintings by Captain Robert Smith of the East India Company. Chinese Penang is well represented too, with a replica of the main hall of a Chinese trader’s home. This exhibit displays an extensive collection of furniture such as opium beds, and opulent accessories like slippers and jewellery belonging to prominent Straits Chinese families.

Art lovers will want to head to the first floor, where ever-changing exhibits showcase local artists. Among the permanent collections are a series of paintings celebrating Malay seamanship, and several representations of old Penang.

Don’t miss the souvenir kiosk outside. This is actually a railway car from the old Penang Hill service and makes for an interesting setting as you browse the antiques and gifts on sale.

The Penang State Museum is located on Farquar Street in central Georgetown, along major bus lines. The museum is open daily, except Friday and public holidays, and there is a small charge for entry.