About Penang

Penang is popularly known as Pearl of the Orient and also dubbed as Silicon Valley of the East. Bounded to the north and east by the State of Kedah and to the south by the State of Perak, it consists of a turtle-shaped island and a coastal strip on the mainland called Province Wellesley (Seberang Prai). The island measure 292 square kilometers and is situated on the north-western coast of the Malay Peninsula at the entrance to the Straits of Malacca while the mainland measures 738 square kilometers. The capital of Penang is George Town.

The island and mainland are separated by a channel 3 km wide at the narrowest point and 13 km at the widest. They are linked by the 13.5 km Penang Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, and a ferry service.

Ferry service at the Raja Tun Uda terminal (on the island) operates from 5.30 am to 1.00 am while that at the Sultan Abdul Halim terminal (mainland) operates from 6.00 am to 12.30 am.

Climate
Penang's climate can be described as equatorial, a pleasant mix of warm, sunny days and occasional cooling rain storms, with August through November being the wettest months generally. Average rainfall is 255 cms (100 inches) throughout the year. Humidity is usually high, and the temperature varies between 21 and 32 Celsius (70 to 95 Farenheit).

Population
Penang has 1,469 million people, of which over 678,000 live on the island. The population is multi-racial, young and almost equally distributed between male and female. The racial breakdown is as follows: Chinese 43.0 percent, Malay 40.9 percent, Indian 10.0 percent, others 0.8 percent and non-citizens 5.3 percent.

Languages
Although Malay is the national language, English is also widely used, particularly in business and the tourism industry. As Penang was (and still is) a meeting point of many cultures, other languages and dialects are also spoken and understood – these include the various Chinese (Mandarin, Cantonese, Hakka, Hokkien) and Indian (Bengali, Hindu Malayalam, Punjabi and Telegu) dialects, as well as smatterings of Thai, and some European languages. The Alliance Francaise and Goethe Institute for example, offer courses in French and German respectively.

Religion
The official state religion is Islam, but freedom of worship is observed. Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, Taoism and other religions are freely practiced – Muslim mosques, Buddhist and Hindu temples, and Christian churches are commonly found throughout the island. Visitors can expect to be amazed by the diversity and profusion of festivals and other religious celebrations which occur regularly throughout the year.

Attire
Depending on activity. Generally you can't go wrong with clothes made of light cotton or other moisture absorbing fabric. Swim wear, sunglasses and sun block will come in handy for days on the beach. Flip flops and strappy sandals are the most comfortable footwear for walking and sightseeing. Unless you can afford to launder your clothes daily, don't bother with socks. Some classy establishments in Penang observe a dress code, so if you plan on dining there, don't leave that designer gown, suit and shoes behind.
Please note that there are NO nude beaches in Penang. Public nudity, in general, is frowned upon by the locals.

Travel documents
Visitors to Malaysia must possess a national passport or other internationally recognised travel documents such as Certificates of Identity and Emergency Certificates of Affidavits. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the period of allowed stay in Malaysia. Those who are in possession of passports which are not recognised by Malaysia must apply for a document in lieu of a passport and visa which is issued by Malaysian missions abroad. For citizens of most countries, no visa is needed for short social visits. For further informationon visa, click here.

Working papers are required for temporary employment in Malaysia. Visitors wishing to extend their stay may apply at the Immigration Office in Lebuh Pantai, two days before the visa expires. It is an offence to overstay the validity of the visit passes -- therefore read carefully the visit passes endorsed on your documents.

Please ask the Malaysian embassy in your country for more information, or visit the Malaysian Immigration website at http://www.imi.gov.my

Health requirements
Smallpox and Yellow Fever vaccinations are not required for travellers entering Malaysia, except for those who have visited endemic zones 14 days (for smallpox) or 6 days (for yellow fever) prior to arriving in the country. Children are exempted form this ruling, for yellow fever if they are under 12 months old, and for smallpox if they are under 6 months old.

Customs and duties
Items such as cameras, watches, pens, lighters, cosmetics, perfume and portable cassette players are duty free in Malaysia. Visitors bringing in dutiable goods such as video equipment may have to pay a deposit of up to 50% of the value for temporary importation, refundable when they leave. You are advised to carry the receipt of purchase. If you pay any tax or deposit, please ensure that you are given a receipt.
Tourist whose stay in Malaysia in excess of 72 hours are exempted from paying taxes on the following:
•  one quart bottle of liquor,
•  25 gms of tobacco or 200 sticks of cigarettes,
•  a pair of new shoes,
•  electrical and battery-operated personal appliances,
•  foodstuff to the value not exceeding RM 75.00,
•  and souvenirs and gifts to the value not exceeding RM 200.00

Restrictions
Import licenses are required for firearms and commercial quantities of gold. Please note that Malaysian laws provide the death penalty for drug trafficking. Other forbidden items are pornography, flick knives, broadcast receivers of a certain frequency, goods from Israel, and animals like piranhas. For more information please visit the Malaysian Customs and Excise website at http://www.customs.gov.my

Currency exchange
The Malaysian Ringgit used to be pegged at RM3.80 per USD but now the currency exchange rate shifts slightly according to market conditions. For other currencies, please ask the local money changers or banks. 

Money changers
Licensed money changers operate all over Georgetown, particularly in Lebuh Pantai and Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Keling. They provide a convenient means of exchanging foreign currency. Rates are usually displayed on a board and are often better than the bank rates.

Getting there

By Air – The Penang International Airport is about 10 kilometers from George Town, Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia, Firefly, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Southern China Airlines, and Thai International offer direct and connecting flights.

By Rail – Butterworth is a major station on the north-south railway from Singapore to Bangkok. The ferry terminal to Penang island is within walking distance from the station.

By Driving – The North-South Expressway is an excellent freeway linking Alor Setar, in the north of Peninsular Malaysia, through Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru in the south. Click here for more details.

For a list of regional and international Tourism Malaysia offices and their contact details, click here.

Moving around
Penang’s public transport system is in place and moving around by taxis, buses or trishaws may be a fun and inexpensive way of catching the sights. Click here for more details.

Rapid Penang
Launched on 31 July 2007 by the Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Rapid Penang marked a definite improvement to the public transport system. Easy-to-read signoards were put in place. A manned helpdesk distributing maps and schedule booklets was set-up. RapidPenang reps were seen answering queries. Buses came on time! Better yet, the 'soft-opening' provided free rides to all commuters. What better way than to endear yourself to the locals?

RapidPenang's fleet of comfortable and clean buses will definitely help bring back the shine to the Pearl of the Orient. It will also play a major role in the logistics and transportation hub of the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) initiative and complement the several mega projects such as the RM2.7 billion second Penang Bridge, the estimated RM1.6 billion monorail and RM1.2 billion Penang Outer Ring Road (PORR). It is also linked to the upcoming major infrastructure projects here such as the RM2 billion integrated terminal for rail, road and sea known as "Penang Sentral" in Butterworth. Click here for more details.

Rapid Penang Sdn Bhd: Lorong Kulit, 10460 Penang. Tel: 604-228 8991 Email: rapidpg@streamyx.com

Miscellaneous
In general, Malaysians are gentle and discreet people. Please be considerate to your hosts. Blatant displays of affection like French kissing, groping, fondling, caressing etc in public are a definite no-no. What you do in private is entirely up to you. In the open, go easy on that smooch.

•  If you visit a mosque or temple that is not usually on the tourist maps, it is a good idea to  request permission from the caretaker on the premises. Moreover, they will often be able to tell  you more than any tourist book.
•  Most credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants, but if you travel away from the cities,  you will need cash.
•  Many banks have ATMs that are connected to international networks such as Cirrus and will issue cash in the Malaysian currency (the Ringgit).
•  Smoking is prohibited in air conditioned public places by federal law. You will risk fines of up to RM 500.00 (not to mention the ire of non-smokers) if caught.
•  Keep your passport handy, but in a safe place. It is your only form of identification and is also required when changing money at banks.
•  International driving licences are required should you desire to rent an automobile to drive in Malaysia.
•  Driving while under the influence of alcohol is a major offence and can involve steep fines as well as detention.
•  The wearing of seatbelts while driving are compulsory.
•  When it comes to motorbikes, expect the unexpected from the drivers.
•  Crash helmets are compulsory while riding motorbikes.
•  Malaysia's traffic system still consists of "roundabouts" (traffic circles) and they are found almost everywhere.
•  Medical assistance is available in every town and city at clinics, or at local hospitals.
•  Local pharmacies can often provide assistance for minor illness or the proper material needed for minor injuries. You will need a doctor's prescription for any purchase of antibiotics.

Economy
The economy of Penang is multifaceted, diverse, vibrant, thriving and growing. Not depending on any one sector for its growth, Penang's economy continues to thrive even during economic slowdowns. This can be attributed in part to the excellent infrastructure and transportation facilities. With an international airport, an excellent port for ships, access to the North-South highway and the railroad, Penang is an ideal location for the manufacturing sector as demonstrated by the presence of several international companies.

Getting Here

BY AIR
Penang is easily accessible by air with daily flights from major capitals of the region.
The Penang International Airport is about 20 km from the city centre. Taxis plying the route follow the coupon system by which fares between the airport and various destinations in Penang are fixed. Air-conditioned taxis and limousines charge higher fares.

Malaysia Airlines (MAS)
1st & 2nd Floor, Menara KWSP (KWSP Tower)
38, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, 10050 Penang.
Reservations: 1 300 88 3000 (24-hours)
Ticketing: 04-217 6321 / 6323 / 6326
Admin: 04-217 6331

AirAsia:
Penang Sales Office:
Ground Floor, Kim Mansion, 332 Chulia Street, 10200 Penang.
Air Asia Call Centre (open 9 am to 9 pm daily); 03 – 8777 4000
Penang International Airport; Tel: 04-643 0811

BY ROAD
The opening of the Penang Bridge linking the mainland of Peninsular Malaysia to Penang Island has facilitated driving to Penang. A charge of RM 7.00 is levied on all classes of cars at the toll plaza in Perai on the mainland. No payment is required for traveling from the island to the mainland.

BY FERRY
From Butterworth, you need to take the ferry to the island. The ferry service is for both passengers and vehicles. Tickets are purchased at the Butterworth terminal for the journey while no fare is charged for the return trip from the island.

Fares:
Foot Passengers: Adult – RM1.20
Children (above 5 years to under 12 years) – RM0.60
Flat rates for vehicles are as follows:
Bicycle - RM1.40
Motorcycle - RM2.00
Trishaw - RM3.30
Cars - RM7.70
Vans/Lorry (4-wheeler) - RM13.20
Lorry (6-wheeler) - RM27.50.

BY RAIL
The journey from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth takes approximately 6 hours. First and second class passengers travel in comfort in the air-conditioned coaches. Taking the train is a comfortable way to travel within the country and it affords one the opportunity to see a lot of the countryside. Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTM Bhd), (Malayan Railway) also operates regular services to Alor Setar, Padang Besar, Haadyai and Bangkok from Butterworth.

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad
Ferry Terminal, Pengkalan Weld; Tel: 04-261 0290
Butterworth; Tel: 04-331 2796

About Johor

Johor is the third largest and one of the most developed states in Peninsular Malaysia.  Its population exceeds two million people, comprising an ethnic mix of Malays, Chinese, Indians and other groups.

The capital of the state of Johor is Johor Bahru which is located at the southernmost tip of Malaysia. Johor Bahru is but half an hour’s drive to Singapore, joined by a common Causeway at the city center as well as by a Second-Link which can be assessed through the Skudai Highway.

About Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is a city consisting of a diverse ethnic mix of races, JB offers the visitor heritage attractions, colourful culture, delectable local cuisine, shopping excitement, pulsing nightlife and exhilarating recreational activities.

Popular with local and foreign tourists alike, JB boasts a myriad of landmarks, such as The Grand Palace or Royal Abu Bakar Museum with its distinct Anglo-Malay architecture. Recognised as one of the finest in the world, it was built by the late Sultan Abu Bakar and houses a splendid array of priceless treasures, antiques and heirlooms of the Royal Collection.

The "Ghazal" music, which is unique to Johor, is usually performed during cultural shows and weddings. Another famous performance distinctly Johorean is the "Kuda Kepang" dance, which is spun from tales of Islamic heroes. Dancers imitate the movement of horses to the music of a traditional orchestra.

The infrastructures linking the city of Johor Bahru are modern and varied and many Singaporeans make a bee-line for the southern city on a daily basis either for business or for leisure.  For more information on Johor, do visit http://www.persadajohor.com/index.php or http://www.tourism.gov.my/en/destinations/state.asp?state=johor

VENUE

PERSADA JOHOR INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE

Jalan Abdullah Ibrahim,
P.O. Box 293,
80730 Johor Bahru,
Johor Malaysia

Telephone 607 219 8888
Fax       607 226 0692
Email    enquiries@persadajohor.com

How To Get There

The city of Johor Bahru is located within the state of Johor at the southern tip of Peninsular Malaysia, and within a mere 30 minutes' reach of downtown Singapore just across the Straits of Johor.

Travelling To Johor By Air

Regular flights from Johor Bahru's Senai International Airport connects the state capital with the country’s major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Kuala Terengganu, Kuantan and Kuching. You can fly direct to Sultan Ismail Airport (Senai International Airport), located approximately 30 minutes from the capital city of Johor Bahru

Senai Airport Terminal Services Sdn. Bhd.

Sultan Ismail International Airport,
81250, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia.
Tel: +607 599 4500
Fax: +607 599 6624

Alternatively, Changi Airport in Singapore is located approximately 40 minutes from Johor Bahru

Speedy airport limousine services and regular airport coach services into Johor Bahru city centre and Singapore are available, with fares controlled by the Government

Travelling To Johor By Sea

Sea-borne travellers have a choice of arriving at several key entry points:

Travelling To Johor By Rail

Scheduled rail services to the north and into Singapore are provided by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd. The railway station is located in the heart of Johor Bahru city centre.

Travelling To Johor By Road

Travellers by road can choose from seven main entry points: