Penang Heritage Area
1. Kuan Yin Temple
Kuan Yin Temple is Penang’s oldest temple. Built in 1728, it is set on Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling (previously known as Pitt Street) and was constructed by early immigrant settlers from China. Upon completion, the temple was one of the most magnificent Chinese-style structures in northern Malaysia. Erected at the cost of 4,000 Spanish dollars, a princely sum at the time, it was built in honor of the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin. Older than the kongsis (clan houses) of Penang, it was originally used not only for religious but also for social functions within the Chinese community. Kuan Yin Temple was originally named Kong Hock Keong temple (Cantonese-Hokkien Temple).
2. Khoo Kongsi
Khoo Kongsi is one of Georgetown’s most interesting attractions. Built some 650 years ago, it is part of the goh tai seh (five big clans) that formed the backbone of the Hokkien community in olden-days Penang. One of Penang’s most lavishly decorated kongsis, it is located on Jalan Acheh, off Lebuh Pitt. A kongsi (clan house) is a building in which Chinese families of the same surname gather to worship their ancestors. Representing a family’s social and spiritual commitments between extended relations, ancestors, and the outside community, the kongsi also acts as an important means of solidarity. These days the primary functions of kongsis are supportive roles: they help with the educations of members’ children, settle disputes and advance loans.
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