The 7 Largest Museum in Penang

The cultural richness of Malaysia is reflected in its many museums, each dedicated to preserving and showcasing different aspects of the country’s heritage. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, these museums offer a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry that makes up this Southeast Asian nation. Here are the five largest museums in Malaysia, each offering a unique journey through the country’s past and present:

• National Museum of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur:

Established in 1957, this impressive museum is home to a vast collection that spans Malaysian history, culture, and nature. Its exhibits cover everything from prehistoric fossils to traditional costumes, providing a comprehensive overview of the country’s heritage. A highlight is the Malay Heritage Hall, which showcases the diverse ethnic groups of Malaysia and their unique traditions.

• Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur:

Dedicated to the art and culture of Islam, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from around the world. Its exhibits span the Islamic world, from the Middle East to Southeast Asia, showcasing a wide range of artistic traditions. A highlight is the Islamic Architecture Gallery, which features models of some of the most iconic mosques in the world.

• Sarawak Museum, Kuching:

Located in the heart of Borneo, this museum is a treasure trove of knowledge about the natural history, ethnography, and culture of Sarawak. Its exhibits cover everything from indigenous art and crafts to the diverse ecosystems of the Borneo rainforest. A highlight is the Borneo Live Gallery, which features live displays of local wildlife, including orangutans, crocodiles, and snakes.

• Sabah State Museum, Kota Kinabalu:

This museum is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sabah, with exhibits that showcase the diverse ethnic groups, traditional arts, and natural history of the state. A highlight is the Kadazan-Dusun Gallery, which provides an in-depth look into the culture and traditions of the largest ethnic group in Sabah.

• Penang State Museum, George Town:

Housed in a beautiful colonial-era building, this museum tells the story of Penang’s history and culture, from its early days as a British trading post to its role as a multicultural melting pot. Its exhibits cover everything from maritime trade to Chinese porcelain, providing a glimpse into the island’s vibrant past.

The 7 Biggest Museum near Penang

Asia Camera Museum

• Address: 1st Floor, 71, Lbh Armenian, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.5 (474)
• Phone: +60 11-1859 9878
• Website:
• Opening hours:
  
  Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Reviews:
  
  Lydia K✭✭✭✭✭

  4 months ago

  Walked by and had to visit as we’re professional photographers! Such a fascinating museum run by passionate people. The staff gave us a tour around the museum and let us interact with vintage cameras. She explained the history and how they worked. Definitely worth a visit if you’re passionate about photography and cameras. Also a very good respite from the heat or rain.

  weitao zhou✭✭✭✭✭

  4 weeks ago

  Definitely worth to visit. Comprehensive collection of cameras from the oldest to the latest. The guide is knowledgeable, kind and friendly. You can also play with some of the vintage cameras and leave the photo in your cellphone.

  Nora Ding✭✭✭✭✭

  4 weeks ago

  Very comprehensive collection. The tour is with very professional and detailed introductions about the history of all the cameras. You can have close experience with several machines. Highly recommended!

  Jon Levins✭✭✭✭✭

  2 months ago

  May gave us a very detailed tour/crash course on the history of cameras. She was a very knowledgeable guide and was very welcoming. Many antique cameras were still functional and we got an opportunity to see how they work, and got a bunch of cool photos (phone camera via the antique camera lenses). Definitely worth the visit.

  Ain✭✭✭✭✭

  4 months ago

  The place kinda chill and the guide is very helpful and cheerful. We can experience using the camera there and the guide constantly offered to take your picture. They offered a student price too

Penang 3D Trick Art Museum

• Address: 10, Lebuh Penang, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.3 (4320)
• Phone: +60 4-263 1628
• Opening hours:
  
  Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Reviews:
  
  Kelvin Ng✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  If you are expecting some level of grandeur (if you had visited other similar places in other countries), dun expect too much.

  The place is built into a 2 storey conserved building but have really good “tricks” for ya to take interesting poses. We thoroughly enjoyed the time there but as it will show pics of persons. I will only post one for fun.

  Do make it in your bucket list to be there. No regrets, i assure you

  Have fun “tricking” !!

  John Lathrop✭✭✭✭✭

  3 weeks ago

  More fun than you’d think. Great humorous photo ops. Remember to rotate your pics 180 degrees for the full effect. Recommended.

  Kah Hoong Wong✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  Spent about 1 hour here. It can be abit chaotic when it’s crowded because others may block or obstruct your photo taking view/angle. The instructions to manage one’s shoe at level 1 can be clearer. Waiting time to enter is about 15 mins.

  Ariel Jewel✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  This Museum is a little walk away from the Peranakan Mansion and a bit pricier than the other Museums. At RM28, you better be ready to take at least 28 photos. The good news is though, there are ample photo taking spots (little illusions, or just pretending to be in a scene with the art) so if you’re a little more creative, this place is a good stop.

  My friend and I spent about an hour here, and went home with MANY photos. Being able to laugh and pose and brainstorm was delightful, and watching other ppl for ideas was also nice.

  There are also some cooler props for photos, which we took full advantage of. If you’re out of ideas, there are always photos outside each set to spark some.

  I can see how this museum might not be everyone’s cup of tea though, considering how self guided it is (much like the other museums in Penang) and the emphasis on static sets.

  Chris Ng✭✭✭✭✭

  a month ago

  Small and cosy place for families to have fun and enjoy. Time spend should be around 1hr. So make plans for other activities after that.

  Walking distance from Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal.

Glass Museum Penang

• Address: 6, Jalan Burma, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 3.9 (390)

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

• Address: 29, Church St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.6 (3754)

Batik Painting Museum Penang

• Address: 19, Lbh Armenian, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.4 (96)

Wonder Food Museum

• Address: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.6 (4700)

Ghost Museum

• Address: 57, Lebuh Melayu, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
• Map: Click here
• Rating: 4.4 (3098)

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Top Museum Alternatives in Penang

Penang, an island paradise off the west coast of Malaysia, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. While the island is home to several excellent museums, there are also alternative attractions that offer unique experiences. Here are three popular museum alternatives in Penang:

• Street Art in George Town
• Penang Time Tunnel
• The Camera Museum

Street Art in George Town: One of the most popular attractions in Penang is the street art scene in George Town. This vibrant city is filled with colorful murals and interactive installations that tell the story of Penang’s history and culture. The street art in George Town is famous worldwide, and tourists flock to the city to explore its narrow lanes and discover the hidden gems. It is a great way to immerse yourself in Penang’s vibrant culture and learn about its unique heritage.

Penang Time Tunnel: Located on Jalan Greenhall in George Town, the Penang Time Tunnel is a unique museum experience that takes visitors on a journey through the history of Penang. The museum features lifelike dioramas, interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations that recreate major historical events, including the arrival of Captain Francis Light, the Japanese occupation, and the development of modern Penang. It is an entertaining and educational experience that offers a glimpse into the island’s fascinating past.

The Camera Museum: Situated in the heart of George Town, The Camera Museum is a haven for photography enthusiasts. It houses a vast collection of vintage cameras, from the earliest pinhole cameras to modern digital devices. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibition galleries, attend photography workshops, and even have their portraits taken using vintage cameras. The museum also features a café where visitors can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the unique surroundings. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the art and history of photography.

Thank you for taking the time to read our article. For more in-depth reviews and comprehensive ratings on the Museum spots, please explore the recommended articles listed below.