The 7 Largest Religious Site in Penang

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Malaysia is a multi-cultural and multi-religious country, home to a diverse range of religious sites that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. Here are the five largest religious sites in Malaysia:

  • Batu Caves, Selangor:

Located about 13 kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur, Batu Caves is a limestone hill that has been transformed into a Hindu religious site. The caves house several Hindu temples, including the famous Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple, which is reached by climbing a steep flight of 272 steps. During the annual Thaipusam festival, millions of Hindu devotees from around the world converge at Batu Caves to participate in a colorful and vibrant celebration.

  • Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur:

The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur, dating back to the 1870s. It is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, who is believed to protect her devotees from diseases and misfortunes. The temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and sculptures, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus in Malaysia and abroad.

  • Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Kuala Lumpur:

The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a historical landmark in Kuala Lumpur that houses the Federal Court of Malaysia. Built in the late 19th century, the building is a masterpiece of Moorish-Islamic architecture, featuring domes, arches, and intricate details. It is an important symbol of Malaysian heritage and a popular tourist destination.

  • National Mosque of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur:

The National Mosque of Malaysia is a modern and iconic mosque located in Kuala Lumpur. It was completed in 1965 and can accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers. The mosque’s unique design incorporates elements of traditional Islamic architecture with modern elements. It is a prominent landmark in Kuala Lumpur and a symbol of the country’s Islamic heritage.

  • Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang:

Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, located in Penang. It is a magnificent complex of intricate pagodas, pavilions, and courtyards, showcasing a blend of Chinese, Burmese, and Thai architectural styles. The temple is home to numerous Buddha statues, including a 30-meter-tall bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin. Kek Lok Si Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a must-visit destination for tourists in Penang.

Penang Life Chapel (Kapel Kehidupan Penang/பினாங்கு வாழ்க்கை தேவாலயம்/ 槟城恩信生命堂 PLC) in Penang
Penang Life Chapel (Kapel Kehidupan Penang/பினாங்கு வாழ்க்கை தேவாலயம்/ 槟城恩信生命堂 PLC) in Penang

The 7 Biggest Religious Site near Penang

Church of the Immaculate Conception, Penang (Gereja Kandungan Suci/அமலோற்பவ அன்னை தேவாலயம்)

  • Address: Lorong Maktab, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (237)

Penang Christian Centre – PCC Georgetown Church

  • Address: 1, Jalan Khaw Sim Bee, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (108)
  • Phone: +60 4-227 6161
  • Website:
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: Closed
    Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    Irvin Cheung✭✭✭✭✭
    5 months ago
    A very warm and spacious church to worship God! My brother and I were most impressed and edified by the flaggers dancing before God and the congregation in such perfect unison and with all their strength and hearts!
    Rodney RGM✭✭✭✭✭
    2 months ago
    I am so bless to be part of this Church. The Pastors and the members are polite and welcoming. I really like the church service. I am getting married on 23/12/23 in PCC Church. I find that the church members are so helpful and showing involvement in my wedding preparation. I can say I have a family here in PCC Church.
    HW Wong✭✭✭✭
    5 years ago
    This Charismatic Church was established in 2011. It has a large hall on the 3rd floor for worship. Although it has ample parking spaces in its compound, parking can be an issue on Sunday. Facilities are well maintained. Very comfortable for families. Overall a very pleasant experience.
    SC✭✭✭✭✭
    a year ago
    PCC is one of the best family-centric churches in Penang. A variety of ministries serving from children to the seniors. Weekend services are available in different languages (English, Chinese and Hokkien dialect) online and on-site (subject to Covid19 SOP, please call office 04-227 6161 for the latest update).
    Eric Tan✭✭✭✭
    9 months ago
    Penang Christian Centre belongs to a group of The Assemblies of God (AG), officially the World Assemblies of God Fellowship, which is an international Pentecostal denomination. Their English Worship Celebration is on Saturday (530pm to 700pm) & Sunday (1000am to 1130am). Their Mandarin Worship Celebration is on every Sunday 10:00am Their Hokkien Worship Celebration is on every Saturday 5:30pm The Crowning Glory (Senior Citizens) is on every Saturdays 10:00am Set menu are available on Saturday night service only from 4:30pm to 5:30pm (until sold-out) or continue after 7:00pm.

Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society Malaysia

  • Address: 316, Jln Macalister, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.6 (150)

St. George’s Anglican Church, Penang, Malaysia

  • Address: 1, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.4 (630)

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

  • Address: 16, Jalan Scotland, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (26)

Penang Life Chapel (Kapel Kehidupan Penang/பினாங்கு வாழ்க்கை தேவாலயம்/ 槟城恩信生命堂 PLC)

  • Address: No. 2-2-42, 1-Square, Tingkat Mahsuri 1, Bayan Baru, 11950 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 5 (20)

Goddess Of Mercy Temple

  • Address: 30, Jln Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (2090)
Penang Life Chapel (Kapel Kehidupan Penang/பினாங்கு வாழ்க்கை தேவாலயம்/ 槟城恩信生命堂 PLC) in Penang
Penang Life Chapel (Kapel Kehidupan Penang/பினாங்கு வாழ்க்கை தேவாலயம்/ 槟城恩信生命堂 PLC) in Penang

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Top Religious Site Alternatives in Penang

Islam is the state religion of Malaysia, as per Article 3 of the Constitution. Meanwhile, other religions can be practised by non-Malay citizens of the country. In addition, per Article 160, one must be Muslim to be considered Malay. As of the 2020 Population and Housing Census, 63.5 percent of the population practices Islam; 18.7 percent Buddhism; 9.1 percent Christianity; 6.1 percent Hinduism; and 2.7 percent other religion or gave no information. The remainder is accounted for by other faiths, including Animism, Folk religion, Sikhism, Baháʼí Faith and other belief systems. The states of Sarawak, Penang and the federal territory of Kuala Lumpur have non-Muslim majorities. Numbers of self-described atheists in Malaysia are few as renouncing Islam is prohibited for Muslims in Malaysia. As such, the actual number of atheists or converts in the country are hard to ascertain out of fear from being ostracised or prosecution. The state has come under criticism from human rights organisations for the government's discrimination against atheists, with some cabinet members saying that "the freedom of religion is not the freedom from religion".Islam in Malaysia is represented by the Shafi'i version of Sunni theology and the practice of any other form of the religion (such as Shia Islam) is heavily restricted by the government. The constitution guarantees freedom of religion while establishing Islam as the "religion of the Federation" to symbolise its importance to Malaysian society. Malaysian Chinese practice various faiths: Mahayana Buddhism and Chinese traditional religions (including Taoism). Hinduism is practised by the majority of Malaysian Indians. Christianity has established itself in some communities, especially in East Malaysia.
Relations between Islam and the other religious groups in the country are generally quite tolerant, even though members of different religious groups do tend to have more homogeneous personal relations, particularly based on ethnicity and religion. Eids, Wesak, Christmas, Lunar New Year, and Deepavali have been declared national holidays. Race, religion and politics are closely intertwined in Malaysia, and various groups have been set up to try to promote religious understanding among the different groups.

The Biggest Religious Site in Malaysia

Penang is a multicultural city in Malaysia that is home to a wide range of religious sites. From temples to mosques and churches, there are numerous places of worship that attract visitors from all over the world. Here are the top three religious site alternatives in Penang:

  • Kek Lok Si Temple: Located in Air Itam, Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Malaysia. It is the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia and is known for its impressive architecture and intricate designs. The temple complex consists of several prayer halls, pagodas, and gardens, all of which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the different sections of the temple, light incense sticks, and make offerings for good luck and blessings.

  • Kapitan Keling Mosque: Situated in Georgetown, Kapitan Keling Mosque is one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Penang. Built in the 19th century, this mosque is a beautiful architectural landmark that reflects the Islamic heritage of the region. The mosque features a blend of different architectural styles, including Moorish and Indo-Islamic influences. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and elegant minarets of this historic mosque. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome to enter the mosque, as long as they are dressed appropriately and follow the rules and guidelines.

  • Church of the Assumption: Located in the heart of Georgetown, Church of the Assumption is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Penang. Built in 1786, this historic church showcases beautiful Gothic architecture and serves as a significant religious and cultural site. The church features stunning stained glass windows, ornate altars, and a serene ambiance that attracts both religious and non-religious visitors. Masses are held regularly, and visitors can attend these services or simply spend some time exploring the church’s interior.

These religious sites in Penang offer not only a glimpse into the religious diversity of the city but also provide a serene and spiritual experience for visitors. Whether you are religious or simply interested in exploring different cultures, these sites are definitely worth a visit.

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

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