In conjunction with the 5th anniversary of Penang Hill’s recognition as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on 15 September and Malaysia Day on 16 September, the Penang State Government will open three heritage sites on FOC basis.
The much welcomed news was shared by Penang Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai in a press statement today.
The sites are the Penang State Museum Automotive Gallery, Fort Cornwallis and the Penang State Museum.
Members of the public can enjoy free entrance on 15 and 16 September 2026.
The initiative aims to foster the spirit of patriotism while strengthening the sense of togetherness and national identity among Malaysians.
“The public, including Penang residents, Malaysians from across the country, as well as domestic and international tourists, are welcome to take this opportunity to trace our history, appreciate our heritage and learn more about Penang’s past, while experiencing the richness and diversity of Malaysian culture.
“The free admission period for the Penang State Museum Automotive Gallery and Fort Cornwallis would also be extended until October 2026, giving the public and tourists more time to visit and enjoy the heritage experiences on offer,” he said.
According to Wong, the Penang State Government chose to open the three historic sites free of charge in conjunction with Malaysia Day because cultural heritage is not merely a legacy of the past, but a treasure that preserves the nation’s memories and shapes the identity of its people.
Wong said Malaysia Day is not merely a public holiday, but an important occasion for Malaysians to look back on the history of the nation’s formation, appreciate Malaysia’s cultural diversity, and strengthen the spirit of patriotism and love for the country.
“The Penang State Government hopes this initiative will elevate Malaysia Day celebrations beyond simply being a festive occasion, transforming them into an experience of cultural education and heritage appreciation. Through visiting historical sites in person, people can learn about the nation’s historical journey, understand the roots of our culture, and ultimately appreciate the values of togetherness and harmony within our multicultural society,” he said.
Wong also suggested that visitors begin their journey at Fort Cornwallis.
“After visiting Fort Cornwallis, visitors can continue to the newly developed Astaka Kota Selera to enjoy a variety of local Penang dishes and experience first-hand the diversity of flavours that form part of the state’s gastronomic identity.
“Visitors can then walk across the Esplanade before stopping to take photographs in front of the beautiful and historic heritage buildings, namely City Hall and Town Hall,” he said.
He said visitors could then continue to another important heritage building in Penang, the Penang State Museum, which will also be opened free of charge as part of the initiative.
“As the final destination, visitors can continue to the Penang State Museum Automotive Gallery at No. 57, Jalan Macalister, for a deeper experience tracing the development of Penang’s transportation system. The changes from one era to another reflect not only the development of transportation, but also the progress of the city, social changes and the evolution of people’s way of life,” he said.
Wong expressed hope that the initiative to open these heritage sites free of charge during the public holiday would provide greater opportunities for families, students, domestic tourists and international visitors to discover Penang’s historical and cultural treasures.