Penang Town Hall and Penang City Hall

When Penang was established, it was initially governed by a Municipal Council from the Town Hall building, constructed in the late 19th century. Additions and renovations have followed after until World War I. It housed an assembly, a ballroom and a library. This building was also used as a social-networking site by Penang’s elites of the time. Town Hall is now the venue for certain events of the popular George Town Festival. So if are visiting in the festival month of August, you are in for an extra treat.
Later, as the town grew and earned the status of a city, a City Council replaced the Municipal Council and a larger City Hall edifice replaced the adjacent Town Hall as its office in the early 20th century. It was one of the first landmarks in Penang to be fitted with electric lights and fans. The magnificent facade of this white-washed Victorian-style City Hall lends it a distinct colonial character. These two iconic buildings stand tall, overlooking the parade ground, on the Esplanade.

Tips: Penang Island City Council has launched a bike sharing system, labeled as LinkBike. An annex to the City Hall has an automated parking stand for bicycles. You need to download its application, purchase a package (RM 2 for 24 hours), and then use the QR code to unlock a bike. If you are concerned about traffic safety, remember to bring your own helmets!