Street art in George Town, Penang – Credit: Penang Global Tourism
Renowned for its captivating street art and vibrant murals, George Town, Malaysia, is a treasure trove for art lovers and Instagram enthusiasts. Nestled on Penang Island in the Malacca Strait, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised alongside Melaka in 2008, is celebrated for its rich multicultural heritage and stunning architecture. The city’s historic streets and colonial-era buildings have become living canvases for internationally acclaimed artists like Lithuanian-born Penang-based artist Ernest Zacharevic and Russian artist Julia Volchkova, whose murals beautifully capture the essence of George Town’s culture and history.
A Living Art Gallery
Initiated as part of the 2012 George Town Festival, Zacharevic’s street art project transformed the city’s streets into an open-air gallery. His murals, alongside those by Volchkova and other local artists, depict the rich history and multicultural diversity of George Town’s residents. Over 50 witty wrought-iron caricatures also adorn the city, illustrating the lifestyle of early 20th-century immigrants. To fully experience the murals, visitors can use a street art map to navigate through the city’s heritage enclave. Each mural tells a story, from the daily lives of locals to historical events, making the journey not just visually stimulating but also educational.
As the capital of the Malaysian island of Penang, George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned not only for its lively street art but also for its famous street food. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural and culinary delights of this vibrant city, making George Town a destination that appeals to all senses.
Jalan Kek Chuan: A Burst of Colour and Beauty
Jalan Kek Chuan, recently awarded 17th place among the most beautiful streets in the world by House Beautiful magazine, is a must-visit for those seeking vibrant, Instagram-worthy scenes. This accolade highlights Jalan Kek Chuan as one of only two streets in Southeast Asia to make the list, offering visitors a unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural designs.
Fans of the BBC series “Race Across the World” might recall contestants Viv and Stephen taking a memorable detour to find this picturesque street, which lies just on the edge of the George Town World Heritage Site. Unfortunately, they were not able to find the street and in turn missed out on Jalan Kek Chuan’s ornately detailed shops and colourful facades.
Jalan Kek Chuan is conveniently accessible via several Penang buses, including routes 101, 102, and 103, which drop passengers off near the Penang State Museum on Jalan Macalister. Alternatively, visitors can take a Grab taxi to the junction of Jalan Macalister and Jalan Kek Chuan, adjacent to the Masjid Pakistan.
Plan Your Visit
For those planning to visit George Town, the street art and murals offer a perfect blend of cultural heritage and modern artistry. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or just looking for the perfect photo op, George Town’s streets are waiting to be explored.