How street art hunts in Malaysia’s George Town reveal Penang’s rich history
- As tourists explore George Town’s alleys and lanes armed with street art maps, they discover a living canvas that narrates the journey of Penang Island
- It is not uncommon to see visitors chat with locals, eager to understand the cultural nuances and historical anecdotes behind the brushstrokes
Tourists swarm the streets of George Town, a city on Malaysia’s Penang Island, to embark on a unique treasure hunt, armed not with a map leading to buried gold but one that unveils the city’s vibrant street art.
The popularity of these murals has given rise to detailed street art maps, guiding enthusiasts through the labyrinth of George Town’s alleys and lanes.
Off the northwest coast of Malaysia, Penang has a storied past. A crucial trading post under British rule, the island attracted merchants from Europe, China and India. Its strategic location and cultural cross-fertilisation have rendered Penang’s history unique.
George Town, its capital, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, and the city’s recognition by Unesco as a World Heritage site is rooted in its diverse cultural influences and historical significance.
Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic painted the first murals on George Town’s streets in 2012. They have been joined by a mosaic of other works, contributing to the city’s status as a global street art destination.
