Penang War Museum is all about education, relic, history and culture.
When it comes to visiting Penang, the Penang War Museum would never be the priority for most. It is the sad truth since there are many more interesting activities on this island instead.
I took a grab ride all the way from Georgetown to the southeast corner of Penang Island, and up onto Batu Maung Hill. The once famous Penang Fort was built in 1930 by Royal British Engineers on Batu Maung Hill. The main reason for building this fortress was to protect the island against their enemies. However, the Japanese captured it during World War II and turned it into a prisoner of war camp. After the Japanese has surrendered, the fortress became a hidden monument, left abandoned for almost 60 years. Mr. Johari Shafie, whose passion is the history of Malaya, spent several years restoring the place. Finally, his dedication has turned the place into an outdoor living museum for the public.
I spotted a large group of young students gathered outside the entrance and waiting for pick-up. Thank goodness they have already explored the museum before I arrived.
Journey through the relics.
I approached the reception counter to purchase the entrance ticket of RM38 (foreigners). For Malaysian guests (locals), they only need to pay RM22 to enter the museum. As the sun so scorching, I was already perspiring nonstop even before stepping in.
After grabbing the brochure which includes an infographic map of the museum, I headed in to explore. Like most who visit this place, I was already prepared to climb and sweat throughout the trip. Dressing in light clothing and wearing comfortable pair of shoes would help.
There were some highlights along the way such as the observation posts, firing bays, armory & countless barracks. The adventurous would crawl through a tunnel and up a metal ladder at one point. From the end of the firing bay, catch a scenic view of the Penang Bridge across to Butterworth. For bigger groups, you may consider booking a game of paint ball which is within the compound perhaps?
Those who are keen in war museums, do check out the posts of my Vietnam’s trip war museums.