TRAVELLER ESSENTIALS

Penang's multicultural character is evident in its languages, traditions, festivals and everyday way of life. Generations of Malay, Chinese, Indian and other communities have contributed to a rich cultural heritage expressed through the state's food, architecture, places of worship and local customs. Understanding a few local customs and everyday practices can help visitors better understand the culture while exploring Penang and interacting with its communities.

Language

Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) is the national language and is widely spoken throughout Penang. English is also commonly used, particularly in hotels, restaurants, major visitor attractions and many tourism businesses. Visitors will also hear a variety of Chinese dialects, Tamil and other languages spoken within the state's multicultural communities.

One of Penang's most distinctive local dialects is Penang Hokkien, which incorporates influences from Malay and English and remains widely spoken among the local Chinese community. Visitors may encounter expressions and phrases used in everyday conversations, reflecting the warmth, hospitality and multicultural character of Penang's communities.

Throughout Penang, visitors will find it easy to navigate and communicate, with most road signs and public information boards displayed in Bahasa Malaysia and English.

Explore the table below to discover some commonly used local words and expressions that offer a glimpse into Penang's cultural diversity and everyday interactions.

Penang Hokkien:
Thank you - Kamsiah
You're welcome - Mien kek khi
How much is it? - Gui lui
It's delicious - Hochiak

Bahasa Malaysia (Malay):
Good morning - Selamat pagi
Good afternoon - Selamat tengah hari 
Good evening - Selamat petang
Good night - Selamat malam
Good bye - Selamat tinggal
Thank you - Terima kasih
You're welcome - Sama-sama
Road - Jalan
Lane - Lorong
Street - Lebuh
I'm sorry - Minta Maaf
How much is it? - Berapa harga
It's expensive - Mahalnya
Check, please / I'd like to pay - Tolong kira
Please give me a receipt - Tolong bagi resit
It's delicious - Sedapnya
Food court - Medan Selera

Visitor Rates

Some attractions, museums and recreational facilities in Penang may offer different admission rates for Malaysian citizens and international visitors. Visitors may notice the term "MyKad" displayed on ticket counters or price boards, which refers to the Malaysian national identity card and indicates rates applicable to Malaysians.

Admission rates are generally displayed at entrances, ticket counters and official websites. Where prices are not clearly stated, visitors are encouraged to check the applicable rates before making a purchase or entering an attraction.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is generally not expected in Penang, as service charges are often included at hotels, restaurants and other hospitality establishments. However, visitors may choose to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service if they wish.

Things to Note During Ramadan

Ramadan is the holy month of fasting observed by Muslims and is an important period in Malaysia's Islamic calendar. During this time, Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset, while daily life, businesses and tourism activities generally continue as usual.

Visitors are welcome to dine and travel as normal, although some eateries may operate on adjusted hours. As a gesture of respect, visitors are encouraged to be mindful of those who are fasting, particularly in public and shared spaces.

Things to Note for Pedestrians

Walking is one of the best ways to explore George Town and discover its historic streets, cultural landmarks, cafés, shops and hidden alleyways. Many areas within the UNESCO World Heritage Site are easily explored on foot, allowing visitors to experience the city at a leisurely pace.

Visitors are encouraged to use designated pedestrian crossings where available and remain aware of surrounding traffic when crossing roads. Taking simple safety precautions can help make walking around Penang more comfortable and enjoyable.

Public Holidays

Penang observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year, reflecting the state's multicultural society and the diverse religious and cultural traditions celebrated by its communities. In addition to national public holidays, Penang also observes selected state holidays and religious festivals.

Visitors should note that some public holidays are specific to Penang and may not be observed elsewhere in Malaysia. The dates of certain festive holidays, particularly those based on the Islamic, Chinese and Hindu calendars, may also vary from year to year.

The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), which is used throughout Penang. Currency exchange services, banks and automated teller machines (ATMs) are widely available, making it easy for visitors to access cash and manage everyday transactions during their stay.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available throughout Penang, with a wide selection of licensed money changers located in George Town and other major commercial areas. Visitors can also find currency exchange facilities at Penang International Airport, shopping malls and selected transportation hubs.

Exchange rates may vary between providers, so visitors are encouraged to compare rates before making a transaction. Visitors should exchange money only through authorised providers and retain their receipts for reference where necessary.

Banks in Penang

A wide range of local and international banks operate throughout Penang, with branches located in George Town, major commercial districts, shopping centres and town centres. Automated teller machines (ATMs) are also widely available, providing convenient access to cash and basic banking services for visitors.

Major banking institutions in Penang include Affin Bank, Alliance Bank, AmBank, Bank Muamalat, Bank of China, Bank Rakyat, Bank Simpanan Nasional, CIMB Bank, Hong Leong Bank, HSBC, Maybank, OCBC, Public Bank, RHB, Standard Chartered and UOB.

Staying connected in Penang is easy, with a wide range of mobile, internet and communication services available throughout the state. Visitors can access mobile networks, make international calls and connect to Wi-Fi during their stay.

SIM Card

Visitors can purchase prepaid SIM cards from major mobile network operators upon arrival at Penang International Airport, as well as at telecommunications outlets, convenience stores and selected retail locations throughout Penang. A range of plans are available, including options for mobile data, local calls and international connectivity.

Top-up services are widely available at convenience stores and authorised retailers, while many providers also offer online and mobile app-based top-up options.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available throughout Penang and can be accessed at most hotels, cafés, shopping centres, transportation hubs and many visitor attractions. Free Wi-Fi is also available at selected public spaces, helping visitors stay connected during their visit.

For greater flexibility, visitors may also purchase a local SIM card with a mobile data plan for internet access while on the move.

Emergency Calls

For emergency assistance in Malaysia, dial 999 for police, fire, medical and other emergency services. Calls are free from both landlines and mobile phones.

Prayer facilities can be found throughout Penang, serving the needs of the state's multicultural and multi-faith community. Mosques, churches, temples and other places of worship are located on both Penang Island and Seberang Perai, catering to different religious traditions.

Dedicated Muslim prayer rooms are also available at many shopping centres, transportation hubs, public facilities and selected visitor attractions, providing convenient access for travellers during their visit.