Powers of Influence

When you visit Penang you can see all the influence that has come to pass by the varying cultures that it supports. Like America, Penang is a virtual melting pot of traditions and influential powers. Penang was first settled by the Chinese. But the late 1780 Englishmen so inhabited Penang in exchange for protection. It soon became the second British Empire. Though the British did not keep their part in protecting Penang from their enemies it was soon turned into a free port for trading by the British. Because of this many settlers from all over came to Penang. The selling of spices in Penang drew more and more Chinese to the area. However, during WWII Penang was under cruial Japanese rule. Because of this many records during this time were destroyed making a full history of Penang difficult. In the end Britian reclaimed Penang on 5 Sept 1945, to which they called British Malaya. Penang gained independence in 1957. Even before the British settled into Penang is was already culturally diverse, having Arab, Japanese, Filipino, Burmese, Parsee, Sumatran people just to name a few. There were also Jewish people in Penang though the number is very low now.

Religiously you can see the influence of both Islamic traditions and Buddhist traditions in traditions and clothing. Holidays from both Major religions are celebrated as well as others. Some of the public holidays that are celebrated in Penang include New Year’s Day, Thaipusam, Chinese New year, Labour Day, Aidifitri, Deepavali, Christmas, and Wesak Day. Western culture has also influenced music in Penang as it holds to major orchestras call Penang Philharmoic and Penang Symphony Orchestra.