"Pulau Pinang - Pulau Mutiara | Penang - The Pearl of the Orient"
About:
Penang, a Malaysian state, was founded in 1786 by the British East India Company under Francis Light. It became one of the Straits Settlements in 1826, along with Singapore and Malacca. After World War II, it joined the Federation of Malaya, achieving independence in 1957. In 1963, it became part of Malaysia. Known for its diverse culture and rich history, Penang is now a major tourist destination and an important economic hub in Malaysia, with a strong focus on tourism, manufacturing, and service sectors.
When to visit:
Penang, a popular holiday destination in Malaysia, experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit Penang is during the dry season which typically occurs from December to April when the island experiences less rainfall and more sunshine. This period is ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring the historic George Town, indulging in delicious street food, and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. However, do keep in mind that this peak tourist season may result in higher prices and larger crowds.
When to avoid:
Traveling to Penang, Malaysia during the monsoon season, which typically occurs from September to November, is often considered the worst time to visit. During this period, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are frequent, leading to potential disruptions in transportation and outdoor activities. The high levels of precipitation can also result in flooding in certain areas of the island, impacting travel plans and sightseeing opportunities. It is advisable to avoid visiting Penang during the monsoon season to ensure a more enjoyable and hassle-free holiday experience.
Monsoon Season (Nov-Jan)
Penang, Malaysia experiences its wettest season from August to November, with November being the peak of the monsoon season. The average temperature ranges from 22°C to 30°C. The island receives heavy rainfall, averaging 400mm in November. Sunlight is limited due to heavy cloud cover, with about 4-6 hours of sunshine daily. An average day for a visitor might include sporadic rain showers, often heavy but short-lived, creating a humid atmosphere. Despite the rain, the island's vibrant life continues, with locals adapting to the wet conditions.
"Hot Season (March-November)"
In Penang, the warmest part of the year typically occurs between March and May, with average high temperatures hovering around 32°C (90°F). The area sees a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, but these months are relatively drier with an average rainfall of about 200mm per month.
Despite the high temperatures, Penang is blessed with plenty of sunlight during this period, averaging about 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. However, the humidity levels are quite high, often exceeding 80%, which can make the heat feel more intense. Cloudiness varies, but generally, the sky is partly cloudy, offering some respite from the intense sun.
For a visitor, a typical day during this period in Penang would feel hot and humid. The mornings usually start off sunny and gradually get hotter towards the afternoon. The high humidity can make the air feel heavy and the heat more oppressive. But, the partly cloudy sky often provides periods of shade. Despite the heat, outdoor activities can still be enjoyed, especially in the mornings and late afternoons when the sun is less intense. It's also a good time to explore Penang's indoor attractions or enjoy its famous street food.
Language:
In Penang, Malaysia, the commonly spoken languages are Malay, which is the national language, and English, widely understood and spoken by locals. Additionally, various Chinese dialects like Hokkien, Cantonese, and Mandarin are prevalent due to the significant Chinese-Malaysian population. Tamil is also spoken among the Indian-Malaysian community.