Penang, an island just off the northwest coast of Malaysia, forms a part of the Malaysian state of the same name. The capital, George Town, is a showcase of Southeast Asia’s largest collection of pre-World War II buildings.
The island offers a wealth of tropical beaches, historic sites, and one of the best opportunities to experience the diversity of Malaysian culture.
Depending on nationality, visitors may be required to apply for a visa in advance to enter Malaysia at the Malaysian Embassy or representative at their country of origin.
Visa On Arrival can also be given to visitors who qualify, and is issued at certain international airports in Malaysia. To view entry requirements by country of origin, click on the link below.
Visa information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia
The Malaysian currency is known as Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) or (RM). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels as well as shopping malls.
Here are the most recent exchange rates for some common currencies.
MYR 1.00 equals:
A 10% surcharge including government tax is applicable in most hotels and restaurants.
The Penang State Government has announced that it will implement a mandatory "Local Government Fee" of MYR 3 per room per night for hotel accommodations that will go into effect on 1 June 2014. In addition to the 10% service charge and 6% government tax, this fee will be added to all room bills.
Tipping is not customary in Malaysia.
Bank Hours10am - 4pm, Monday through Sunday
Office HoursThough Malaysia is an Islamic country, offices observe a Monday to Friday schedule. 9am - 5pm (Business)8am - 5pm (Government)
Shop Hours10am - 10pm, Monday through Sunday
Visitors arriving from Yellow Fever Endemic Zones and other affected areas are required to present International Health Certificates showing Yellow Fever vaccinations. This regulation, however, does not apply to children below the age of one.
Cholera vaccination is not required for travellers entering Malaysia.
Lightweight clothing is ideal. A suit and tie are normal business attires. Revealing garments for women are not advisable, especially in rural areas.
Penang’s climate can be described as equatorial, a pleasant mix of warm, sunny days and occasional cooling rain storms, with August through November being the wettest months generally.
Humidity is usually high, and the temperature varies between 21°C and 32°C (70° to 95° Fahrenheit).
Times of clouds and sun
Intervals of clouds and sunshine
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Population1.5 million
LanguageEnglish, Malay, Chinese
Time ZoneGMT + 8 hours
MeasuresMetric System
Voltage240 volts
Plug Type
Mobile PhonesGSM 900 / 1800