George Town

George Town

General Information
Name	George Town
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	Capital City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates
Map
Population
Total
Density	auto per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC+8
DST	UTC

George Town is the capital city of the state of Penang, Malaysia. Founded in 1786 by British trader Francis Light, George Town was one of the first British settlements in Southeast Asia. Throughout its history, George Town has been a melting pot of diverse cultures, which is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and community.

History

George Town was established by Francis Light under the authority of the Sultanate of Kedah. Initially, it served as a free port to attract traders from across the region, which led to its rapid growth as a major trading hub. The city's history is marked by British colonial influences and its role during World War II when it was occupied by the Japanese forces.

Geography

Located on the northeastern corner of Penang Island, George Town boasts a tropical rainforest climate with a mix of urban and natural areas. The city is noted for its well-preserved colonial architecture, which has earned it a designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Melaka.

Economy

The economy of George Town is diverse, with sectors such as finance, tourism, and information technology playing significant roles. The city is also known for its street food, which reflects its multicultural heritage.

Culture

George Town is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, which includes various festivals, food, and arts. The city celebrates a range of cultural events such as Chinese New Year, Diwali, and Eid ul-Fitr, showcasing its multicultural community. The George Town Festival is an annual event that highlights local arts and culture.

Education

George Town is home to several educational institutions, including the University of Science, Malaysia (USM) and Wawasan Open University. These institutions contribute to the city's reputation as an educational hub in the region.

Transportation

The city is served by the Penang International Airport and has an extensive road network. Public transportation in George Town includes buses, taxis, and the recent introduction of bike-sharing services.

See also

• Penang
• Francis Light
• British Empire
• UNESCO World Heritage Site