George Town in Penang listed as UNESCO's World Heritage Site!

George Town in Penang has finally been accepted as one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. Efforts to bid for this title began since 2004 and now, WE HAVE IT!

According to The Star, the core areas encompass the historical sites of George Town, including the Lebuh Acheh historical enclave and sites such as the Lebuh Acheh Malay Mosque, Jalan Mesjid Kapitan Kling Mosque, the Goddess of Mercy Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, Khoo Kongsi, St George’s Church, Assumption Church, St Xavier’s Institution, Convent Light Street, Little India, the museum and court building, the commercial area of Beach Street, Fort Cornwallis, Esplanade, City Hall, the clan jetties and the port areas.

In fact, there will be a ceremony at Esplanade starting from 8.30pm tonight to officially declare Penang as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which will be accompanied by fireworks!

This means more fund will be allocated for the refurbishment and maintenance of the said areas. Having this recognition also translates into a boost for the tourism in Penang, aside from being the food haven of Malaysia. Honestly, this couldn't have come at a better time, since most of the funding for Penang was removed by the current ruling BN federal government, which I believe is an act of revenge towards Penangites for voting for the Opposition to become the ruling state government we are in need of more funds to boost Penang's economy.

As a Penangite, I am indeed VERY proud of Penang's achievement and recognition by UNESCO! It's about freakin' time!