Streets Come Alive, Unforgettable George Town

2nd Anniversary George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site Celebration
Click here 'Street Come Alive' programme list

Date: 7th July 2010
Time: 8am - 11pm
Type: Streets Celebration
Venue: George Town Heritage Core Zone

Indulge yourself in a full day of events throughout George Town including street cultural performances by the multicultural communities of Penang, a heritage "trea-shaw" hunt, open house to public and private heritage buildings, a shophouse trail, cemetery tour, and boat rides at the clan jetties. In addition, don't miss the chance to learn and get your hands on a variety of traditional crafts and foods from the numerous street stalls.

All of these exciting events will lead into an Unforgettable George Town night featuring a performance by the director of Beijing Opera, Ghaffar Pourazar; an Iranian-born, British-raised former computer animator, turned Chinese Opera performer.

All programs are free of charge unless otherwise stated

Open House: Public and Private Heritage Buildings
Time: 9.00am-5.00pm
Ticket Prices: FREE
Location: Penang State Museum, Penang Islamic Museum, Konsenih Building (Equator Academy of Art), Segara Ninda Residence, Wisma Kastam, Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang Tourist Guide Association, Carpenter's Guild, Hai Nan Association, Eng Chuan Tong Tan Kongsi, Yap Kongsi, Cheah Si Hock Haw Kong Kongsi, Ong Si Thye Guan Tong, Lee Sih Chong Soo, Han Jiang Ancestral Temple (Penang Teochew Association), Tsen Lung Fui Kon, Poh Choo Seah, Hock Teik Cheng SinTemple, Town Hall, Lighthouse, World Heritage Office, Anak-anak Kota, Penang Heritage Trust-PAPA, Sun Yat Sen Penang Base (10.00am-12.00pm), The Sire (House of Yeap Chor Ee), and Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (1.30-2.30pm, limited to 120 pax). In addition, many other sites in George Town will be open to the public including Indian and Chinese temples, mosques, churches, tombs, and shrines.

George Town Shophouse Trail
Time: 9.00am-10.30am & 11.00am-12.30pm
Ticket Prices: RM10 per route, limited to 20 persons per route (pre-registration)
Enquiries: Fidel Ho, Tel: 012-456 5867 or email: fidelhoho@gmail.com

Visit some of the finest residential and commercial shophouses in George Town and learn more about this unique built heritage of Penang. We have two routes available for each time slot. Register for one route and participate in a rare guided tour of 6 shophouses. Even better, register for two routes and see all 12 shophouses! Tours are available in Chinese and English.

Cemetery Tour
Time: 2.00 pm & 3.00pm
Location: Protestant Cemetery, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah
Ticket prices: RM 20 (pre-registration)
Enquiries: Penang Heritage Trust, Tel: 04-264 2631

"Jom Naiki Sampan di Perairan Laut Clan Jetties!" - Boat Rides at the Clan Jetties!
Time: 8.30am-11.30am
Location: Yeoh Jetty, Pengkalan Weld
Ticket Prices: FREE - Register on the spot

Come enjoy the scenery of the Clan Jetties by boat "sampan-sampan"! Learn about the history of these unique Penang communities through live reenactments of the pre-1970 daily works and activities on the Clan Jetties.

Heritage "Trea-Shaw" Hunt
Time: 8.00am-1.00pm
Location: Flag-off at Town Hall / Esplanade
Ticket prices: RM388 - limited to 50 trishaws
Closing date for registration: 28 June
Enquiries: Ederic Low, Tel: 012-409 2539 or email: treashawhunt2010@gmail.com

Hop on a trishaw! Experience this fun and exciting way of exploring our rich heritage treasures of foods, costumes, trades, local personalities, and heritage buildings.

Unforgettable Cultural Experiences at Masjid Kapitan Keling
Time: 10:00am-11:00pm
Location: Masjid Kapitan Keling
Ticket Price: FREE

Time: 10.00am - 11.00pm

* Exhibition on antiques and historical photographs.

Time: 2.00pm-11.00pm

* Interactive Indian-Muslim traditional food demonstrations including Nasi Kandar,
Nonbu Kanji, Kolkate, Somosa & Vadai, Idyiyappom, Passembor. Enjoy free porridge too!
* "Golden of Dates" Exhibition on the historical and cultural significance of the date fruit.

Time: 5.00pm - 7.00pm

* Demonstration of traditional Muslim games like "pallaguli" and "pamberem"
* Tour of Masjid Kapitan Keling

Time: 5.00pm - 8.00pm

* Teh Tarik demonstration - learn and try it out! Free flow of Teh Tarik.
* Crafts demonstration and exhibition including "Poo Malai", a Muslim tradition that originates from India and the Muslim "Kopiah".
* Original spices exhibition - Interactive demonstration on the use of spices in the preparation and cooking of Indian-Muslim dishes.


George Town Street Celebrations
Ticket Price: Free

Showcase of Traditional Food & Craft
Time: 5.00pm - 10.00pm
Location: Armenian Street, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling
Chinese lantern making, Wayang Kulit, Batik demonstration, Henna, Antiques, Shoe painting,Tshirt printing, Chinese calligraphy, Beaded crafts, Rattan and bamboo items, Nyonya Manik shoes, Chinese frog buttons, Baba Nyonya collection, Penang & Malaysia postcards, Handmade crafts, Traditional Chinese eye massage; food including Eurasian food and pastries, Thai laksa, preparation of Putu Mayom, Nutmeg juice, Nyonya cooking, and more!

Meng Eng Soo Open Day
Time: 5.00pm - 10.00pm
Location: Meng Eng Soo, Jalan Pintal Tali
Indoor: Exhibition on Meng Eng Soo history and tea presentation
Outdoor: "Peddlers Court", Cultural performances - Wushu, Tai Chi, street artists, Chinese Orchestra

Lion Dance Performance on High Poles
Time: 7.30pm - 9.30pm
Location: Cheah Kongsi, Armenian Street

Vintage Heritage Penang Postcards
Time: 10.00am-10.00pm
Location: Cheah Kongsi, Armenian Street
Exhibition of old postcards by Penang Philatelic Society

Chinese Cultural Performance and Demonstration
Time: 5.00pm - 10.30pm
Location: Penang Teochew Association, Chulia Street
Traditional Teochew opera performance, Lion and Dragon dance, Chinese Kung Fu
performance, Traditional craft skills of cane weaving and batik design, Chinese Tanglung craftworks, and multiracial cultural dances and songs.

Indian Dance & Music Performance at Little India
Time: 7.00pm-9.00pm
Location: Little India
Ticket Price: Free

Experience and enjoy Indian Cultural Dance performance, Sitar & Tabla Performance, Kollattam & Horse dance, Nadeswaram & Urimimellam at Little India!

Malay Heritage Cultural Performance & Demonstration
Time: 5.00pm-12.00am
Location: Penang Islamic Museum, Armenian Street
Ticket prices: FREE

The Acheen Street Mosque (Masjid Melayu Lebuh Acheh), Koperasi Pelancongan, Islamic Museum, Boyanese community, Liga Muslim Pulau Pinang and other Malay groups will be showcasing traditional Malay performances including Nasyid, Marhaban, Kompang, Silat, Khat, Boria, Ghazal Parti, Sketches and Traditional Malay music and dance. Also on exhibition will be traditional Malay kuih-muih, bunga telur, hantaran, and a historical exhibition of Masjid Melayu.

An Evening of Unforgettable George Town Cultural Performances
Time: 5.00pm-9.00pm
Location: Khoo Kongsi
Ticket Price: FREE

Cultural performances from the different ethnic communities of George Town, Penang as well as international acts!

Featuring: Ghaffar Pourazar and Morimura Chie performing Beijing opera, Batak singers from Indonesia, Traditional Punjabi Vidda dance, Punjabi drumming, Indian cultural performances including Baratha Natyam, folk dances, stick dance, Kavadi dance, Silambam, fire eating, and juggling, as well as cultural performances from Penang's Malayali, Eurasian, Thai, and Penang Baba Nyonya communities.

Highlights

Ghaffar Pourazar and Morimura Chie - Beijing Opera
Ghaffar Pourazar, an Iranian-born, British-raised, former computer animator turned Chinese Opera performer, and Chie Morimura, a Japanese woman who is a founding member of the International Centre for Peking Opera - will stage a short excerpt from one of the most famous plays, "The Monkey King," based on stories of the mythical Chinese figure on 7 July, 5pm-9pm at Khoo Kongsi.

Top 12 must visit tourist destinations in Penang

1) Penang Hill升旗山

2) Batu Ferringhi Beach峇都丁宜海滩

3) Gurney Drive新關仔角

4) Kek Lok Si Temple

5) Penang Bridge檳城大橋

6) Fort Cornwallis and Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower康華麗堡 & 維多利亞皇后紀念鐘樓

7) Street of Harmony (St George's Church, Goddess of Mercy Temple, Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Kapitan Keling Mosque) 椰脚街& 華蓋街一带的 聖喬治教堂, 觀音亭、瑪哈瑪麗雅安曼興都廟、甲必丹吉寧回教堂

8) Penang Ferry and Tanjong City Marina檳城渡輪&丹絨帆船俱樂部

9) Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion張弼士故居

10) St Anne's Church 聖安納教堂

11) Penang State Museum, Cathedral of the Assumption and Penang Art Gallery檳州博物院, 蓋街聖母大教堂, 檳州藝術畫廊

12) Armenian Street (Masjid Melayu Lebuh Acheh, Islamic Museum, Khoo Kongsi, Cheah Kongsi, Yap Temple, Poh Hock Siah) 本头公巷周围的邱公司龍山堂, 回教堂, 回教博物院, 謝氏福侯公公司

Penang Top 10 Most Successful Hotels & Resorts

The Top 10 Best-Selling Hotels & Resorts in Penang

On the November 2009, Asia Web Direct KL held its Appreciation Cocktail Evening at UOA Bangsar. The response was encouraging, with more than 60 hotel representatives turning up for the event.

The annual event’s aim was to reward top-performing hotel partners for their outstanding performances and achievements throughout the year. Penang Top Ten Hotel awards have been handed out with Penang being the third best-selling region for AsiaWebDirect. Let us now have a look at the hotels which have made the Top Ten list for Penang:

1. Bayview Hotel Georgetown - -

Bayview Georgetown 3* 320 Room



Standing tall in the middle of the buzzing Georgetown, where the bulk of the island’s energy is centred, Bayview Hotel Georgetown does not only offer above-average accommodation, it is also surrounded by limitless leisure options including major shopping areas, excellent dining options and exciting historical attractions. The hotel is also home to Penang’s only revolving restaurant which serves sumptuous buffet dinner and commanding views of the city.

2. Bayview Beach Resort
Batu Feringgi 4* 366 Room





Overlooking the spectacular bay of Batu Ferringhi, Bayview Beach Resort is situated at the quieter end of the scenic beachfront. At the resort, luxury is standard issue, and each of its spacious, fully-equipped guestrooms and suites comes with a private balcony where guests can look out to the ocean or the lush surrounding hills.


3. G Hotel
Georgetown 5* 304 Rooms



This hotel Featuring a highly sophisticated and stylishly contemporary interior, G Hotel is the epitome of modern city accommodation. Consisting of rooms, suites and serviced apartments, the hotel offers accommodation which is not just pleasant in aesthetics, but also in function. Coupled with an ideal location which overlooks Penang’s most famous boulevard, Gurney Drive, G Hotel is the perfect choice in every way.


4. Copthorne Orchid Hotel
Tanjung Bungah 4* 318 Rooms



Copthorne Orchid Hotel

Located on a secluded and sheltered part of the beach at Tanjung Bungah, Copthorne Orchid Hotel bestows upon its guests an unparalleled sense of peace and privacy. With enviable facilities which include Jacuzzi with separate men and women sections, a Spa, WiFi connectivity and four F & B outlets, the hotel is a an ideal getaway for those who wish to get away from it all.

5. Parkroyal Penang
Batu Feringgi 5* 309 Room



Located on the scenic beaches of Batu Ferringhi, Parkroyal Penang offers an idyllic seaside retreat. Its 309 guestrooms and suites delivers sumptuous comfort and warmth in décor and furnishings, and come with a private balcony which offers unbeatable views of the ocean. With such a beautiful setting and other facilities to make your stay here more pleasant, such as a Spa, two bars and three restaurants, Parkroyal Penang makes it easy for you to relax and unwind.


6. Hydro Majestic Penang
Batu Feringgi 3* 326 Rooom



The perfect hideaway choice for a sun drenched vacation, rest and relaxation, family holidays or weekend getaways, located along the renowned Batu Ferringhi Beach stretch. All rooms have dramatic views of the Andaman Sea and inspiring sunset. Truly Penang’s warm and friendly hotel.


7. Berjaya Georgetown Hotel
Burmah Road 3* 323 Room



Located right in the middle of the city, where a host of dining and entertainment options are abound, Berjaya Georgetown Hotel’s central location provides easy access to Penang’s best. Together with gracious hospitality and warm, friendly service, the hotel offers a complete city accommodation.


8. Paradise Sandy Bay Beach Resort
Tanjung Bungah 4* 333 Room



Located at the heart of Tanjung Bungah, Paradise Sandy Bay Beach features superbly-comfortable guestrooms with sweeping views of the ocean, as well as a comprehensive range of facilities that would appeal to everyone from the leisure holidaymaker to the jet-setting businessman.


9. Tanjung Bungah Beach Resort
Tanjung Bungah 3* 200 Room



Welcome to Tanjung Bungah Beach Hotel, Penang, Malaysia. A precious gem along a stretch of white sandy beach with tranquil TANJUNG BUNGAH shimmering sea. The first hotel along Tanjung Bungah with its own private stretch of beachfront. Whether you're travelling on business or with your family, comfort and choice are yours at Tanjung Bungah Beach Hotel, Penang


10. Golden Sands Resort - By Shangri La
Batu Feringgi 4* 395 Room



A luxurious tropical getaway for both holidaymakers and honeymooners, Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La offers spectacular views of the ocean from its 395 bright and spacious guestrooms, which have been given a welcoming and exotic Malaysian touch. Together with award-winning restaurants, an indoor entertainment venue called ‘Adventure Zone’ and a host of other facilities, you can be sure that your stay here would be as much fun as it is comfortable.


A leading family resort located on the famed Batu Feringgi Beach in Penang, the Golden Sands Resort is set to redefine the standard of four-star deluxe accommodation within the region as it nears the completion of its most ambitious redevelopment programme to date.

Scheduled for completion by mid December 2009, the RM40 million project that has been carried out in phases since May 2008 is giving the 30-year-old resort an exciting and reinvigorated outlook with contemporary design and state-of-the-art features.

Already a firm favourite with families as a holiday getaway, the new Golden Sands Resort is cementing its status as the market leader with an unparalleled range of facilities and services that are unique and a first in the industry

Awards
The Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La, Penang has been honoured to receive recognition for our blend of Malaysian hospitality and contemporary luxury. Here are some of our most recent awards.

** The Award For Excellence (Platinum) 2005-2006, Hospitality Asia
** Excellence In Hotel Services 2004-5, Malaysia Tourism
** Top 20 Best Hotels & Resorts in Asia 2003, Asia-hotels.com
** Prime Minister's Hibiscus Award, 2002-3

Geography

Situated along the north-western coast of the peninsula Malaysia, Penang is Malaysia’s only “island state”. Locals are fondly known as Penangites, many of whom will proudly tell you that the state comprising a population of approximately 1.5 million, is a close-knit community of diverse ethnicities, cultures and dialects.

You can either cross the channel via the iconic Penang Bridge or by the ferry – the latter being a “must experience” simply because it is synonymous with holidaying here. Soon, visitors will have the option of using the new Second Penang Bridge which is expected to be completed in 2011.

The state is geographically divided into two sections:

Penang Island: an island of 293 square kilometres located in the Straits of Malacca with an estimated population of 721,500; and
Province Wellesley : a narrow hinterland of 753 square kilometres on the peninsula across a narrow channel whose smallest width is 4 km (2.5 miles). It is bordered by Kedah in the north (demarcated by the Muda River) and east, and Perak in the south and has an estimated population of 796,500.

The body of water between Penang Island and Province Wellesley is the North Channel to the north of Georgetown and the South Channel to the south of George Town. Penang Island is irregularly shaped, with a granitic, hilly and mostly forested interior, the highest point being Western Hill (part of Penang Hill) at 830 metres above sea level. The coastal plains are narrow, the most extensive of which is in the northeast which forms a triangular promontory where George Town, the state capital, is situated. The topography of Province Wellesley is mostly flat. Butterworth, the main town in Province Wellesley, lies along the Perai River estuary and faces George Town at a distance of 3 km (2 miles) across the channel to the east.

THE GOOD FOOD DIRECTORY ON PENANG ISLAND

Ah Thooi Mee Suah (Vermicelli with Duck Drumstick soup)
a. Roadside Stall at Jalan Sungei Pinang in front of Boon Siew Honda workshop

Ban Chean Kuih (Chinese Pancake)
a. Ah Kee Chinese Pancake(012-482 1077), stall beside coffee shop at
junction of Taman Sri Nibong and Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah - night
b. Cart beside Chartered Bank - afternoon
c. Cart in front of General Post Office - afternoon (Muslim)

Beef Koay Teow (Glutinous Flat Noodles in Beef Soup)
a. Lebuh Victoria Bus Terminal hawker complex

Char Tung Hoon (friend glass noodles)
a. Ang Hoay Lor Restaurant, Jalan Gurdwara

Char Koay Teow (Fried Glutinous Flat Noodles with prawns, cockles)
a. Sisters at Jalan Macalister (near junction of Jalan Macalister/Jalan Perak)-morning
b. Lorong Kulit/Jalan Dato Keramat junction - morning
c. Lorong Selamat stall opposite coffee shop - afternoon
d. Ah Hoe Char Koay Teow , junction Jalan Carnarvon/Lebuh Melayu
e. New Asia Coffee Shop, Air Itam
f. Pulau Tikus Market - night
g. Song River Cafe, Persiaran Gurney
h. Lebuh Kimberley - night
i. most hawker stalls serve good char koay teow

Halal (Muslim) stalls
a. Rudy's at Tanjung Bunga Hawker's Complex opp. Copthorne Hotel
b. Stall at Jalan Chee Seng, Tanjung Bunga - night only

Chee Cheong Fun
a. Coffee Shop at Lorong Macalister
b. Jalan Baru

Chendol
a. Stall at junction Jalan Penang/Lebuh Keng Kwee, beside Joo Hooi Cafe
b. Stall at Super Komtar foodcourt
c. Sar Chew Restaurant, Jalan Cantonment

Chicken Broth
a. Padang Brown Hawker Complex, Jalan Anson

Chicken Rice ( Hainan )
a. Fatty Loh
b. Tanjung Bunga, opp. Chinese Swimming Club
c. Jalan Cantonment, Pulau Tikus, opp Maybank
d. In front of Agora Hotel, Jalan Macalister
e. Coffee Shops (several specialists along Lebuh Chulia)
f. Kheng Pin Coffee Shop, junction Jalan Sri Bahari/Jalan Penang
g. Poly Cafe, Jalan Burma , Pulau Tikus

Curry Mee
a. Bee Hooi Coffee Shop in Lorong Pulau Tikus/Jalan Burma junction (Pulau Tikus) - morning
b. Cathay Cafe, Jalan Burma (opposite Union Primary School ) - night
c. Sin Nam Hong Coffee Shop at Komtar second level
d. Lorong Kucing
e. Lorong Swatow
f. New Asia Coffee Shop, Air Itam
g. Stall at Jalan Loh Poh Heng, Hillside , near Esso petrol station - afternoon

Dim Sum
a. Bee Hooi Coffee Shop, Jalan Burma/Lorong Pulau Tikus junction
b. Hong Kong Tea Garden, 162-164 Jalan Macalister, opposite District Education Office

Ewe Char Koay
a. Popular Stalls, Lebuh Cintra

Fish Head Beehoon
a. Sky Cafe, Lebuh Chulia

Hum Chin Peng (Chinese "doughnut")
a. Cart at Lebuh Kimberley/Lebuh Cintra junction
b. Popular Stalls, Lebuh Cintra

Hokkien Mee
a. Coffee Shop junction of Jalan Burmah/Jalan Cantonment - morning
b. Crystal Food Garden , Jalan Tanjung Tokong, near to Sandy Bay Beachcomber - evening
c. Sin Kim San Coffee Shop, junction Jalan Macalister/Jalan Rangoon
d. Coffee Shop several doors to the left of Midtowne Hotel, Jalan Macalister
e. Song River Cafe, Persiaran Gurney - night only
f. Coffee Shop at Jalan Perak/Jalan Kebun Nyor junction

Hokkien Char
a. Bee Hooi Coffee Shop, Jalan Burma/Lorong Pulau Tikus junction

Ice Kacang
a. Kek Seng Coffee Shop, Jalan Penang
b. Low Eng Hoo Coffee Shop, Lorong Selamat
c. Lorong Swatow
d. Lebuh Keng Kwee/Jalan Penang junction

Ipoh Koay Teow (bean sprout chicken)
a. Jalan Air Itam

Koay Chiap (thick glutinous noodles with duck meat soup)
a. Air Itam Market - night

Koay Kak
a. Coffee Shop, Lorong Macalister - morning
b. Air Itram Market
c. Jalan Anson Market

Koay Teow Th'ng
a. Hai Oan Coffee Shop, Jalan Burma, near junction of Lorong Macalister - morning
b. Side Lane between Jalan Hutton/Lebuh Dickens (opp Police HQ) - morning
c. Jalan Argyll (opp back of Island Girls' School) - morning
d. Jalan Hutton (opp Sek. Pendidekan Khas) - morning
e. Kek Seng Coffee Shop, Jalan Penang
f. Lorong Swatow
g. Roadside Stall junction of Lebuh Beach/Lebuh Market

Laksa
a. Air Itam Market
b. Balik Pulau Market
c. Kuala Jalan Baru, Balik Pulau
d. Helena 's Laksa (franchise) at Bukit Jambul Shopping Complex
e. Kek Seng Coffee Shop, Jalan Penang
f. Kheng Pin Coffeeship, junction Jalan Sri Bahari/Jalan Penang
g. Lorong Selamat
h. Lorong Swatow
i. Swee Kong Coffee Shop opposite Pulau Tikus Police Station, Jalan Burma

Lok Lok
a. Esplanade Hawker Complex - night
b. Padang Brown Hawker Centre, Jalan Anson/Jalan Perak junction
c. Pulau Tikus Market

Lor Bak
a. Coffee Shop at junction of Lebuh Carnarvon/Lorong Melayu
b. Kek Seng Coffee Shop, Jalan Penang
c. Kheng Pin Coffee Shop, junction Jalan Sri Bahari/Jalan Penang

Nasi Lemak
a. Garden Inn Hotel, Jalan Anson - set lunch
b. Johnny's, Pulau Tikus Market
c. Swee Kong Coffee Shop (opp. Pulau Tikus Police Station) Jalan Burma
d. Potbless - 2 Lorong Hutton; 1-Stop Midlands ; 98 Lintang Mayang Pasir 2

O' Chien (Oyster Omelette)
a. Coffee Shop junction of Lebuh Carnarvon/Lebuh Kimberley
b. Coffee Shop Junction of Jalan Macalister/Lorong Selamat - evening
c. Ocean Green Restaurant, 48F Jln. Sultan Ahmad Shah Tel:2262681
d. Song River Cafe, Persiaran Gurney - night

Popiah (Mixed Vegetables and Crabmeat in Thin Pancake Covering)
a. Coffee Shop junction of Jalan Macalister/Lorong Selamat - evening
b. Kek Seng Coffee Shop, Jalan Penang
c. Wah Leong Coffee Shop, Jalan Burma
d. Lorong Swatow

Rojak (cut fruits in prawn paste)
a. Van outside Poly Cafe, Jalan Burma

Sar Hor Fun (Fried Glutinous Flat Noodles and Beehoon with Pork and Seafood)
a. Coffee Shop junction of Jalan Macalister/Lorong Selamat
b. Coffee Shop in front of Penang Jail, Jalan Datuk Keramat
c. Coffee Shop junction of Jalan Burmah/Jalan Nagore
d. Foo Heong Restaurant, 56-58 Lebuh Cintra Tel:261 2350
e. Sky Cafe, Lebuh Chulia

Satay (Chinese) (barbequed skewered meat - Pork, Chicken)
a. Coffee Shops junction Jalan Penang/Kampong Malabar
b. Lebuh Cina
c. Kheng Pin Coffee Shop, junction Jalan Sri Bahari/Jalan Penang
d. most coffee shop stalls

Seafood Broth/Pork Broth
a. Roadside cart at Lebuh Chulia, opp Lorong Cinta - night
b. Coffee Shop in front of Penang Jail, Jalan Datuk Keramat

Wantan Mee
a. Jalan Burma (in front of Union Primary School) - night only
b. Swee Kong Coffee Shop, opp Pulau Tikus Police Station, Jalan Burma
c. Coffee Shop opposite Lai Lai Supermarket, Jalan Burma - evening
d. Coffee Shop, junction of Jalan Anson/Lebuh Melaka
e. Lorong Selamat
f. World Cafe, junction Jalan Nagore/Jalan Bawasah
g. most coffee shop hawker stalls

Yong Tau Foo
a. Padang Brown hawker complex - evening

INDIAN

Mee Goreng/Mee Rebus
a. New Asia Coffee Shop, Air Itam
b. Kek Seng Coffee Shop, Jalan Penang - Chinese Mee Rebus
c. Lorong Swatow
d. Coffee Shop junction of Jalan Burma/Lorong Bangkok
e. Larut Cafe (beside Sheraton Hotel) - formerly at CRC

Murtabak
a. Hameediyah Restaurant, Lebuh Campbell

Nasi Kandar
a. Craven A Cafe, 4 Jalan Dato Keramat
b. Stall behind Immigration Dept. and Penang State Assembly building, Lebuh Light.
c. Kassim Nasi Kandar, 14 & 21 Jalan Gurdwara, opposite Gama Supermarket
d. Kedai Kopi Merlin, 1 Lebuh Penang
e. Sabuhan, Jalan Burma
f. Lebuh Tamil
g. Line Clear, junction of Jalan Penang/Lebuh Chulia
h. Small lane next to Pitt St Mosque
i. KAYU Nasi Kandar (behind Vistana Hotel - Bkt. Jambul)

Pasembor
a. Persiaran Gurney - evening (Indian)
b. Padang Brown hawker complex - afternoon

Roti Canai
a. Hameediyah Restaurant, Lebuh Campbell
b. Indian stalls at Jalan Transfer (beside the mosque), Jalan Argyll
c. most Indian coffee shops/stalls

Tosei
a. most Indian coffee shops, especially along Penang Street , Market Street , in the morning

MALAY

Rice and Malay Dishes
a. Tanjung Tokong UDA Flats
b. Hawker Stalls opposite Mar Vista Resort
c. Hawker Stalls around Penang Parkroyal Hotel
d. Junction of Jalan Kelawei/Jalan Jones
e. Hawker Stall opposite Sheraton Penang
f. Larut Cafe beside Sheraton Penang

Satay
a. most coffee shops

JAPANESE
a. Crystal Food Garden , Tanjung Tokong
b. Winston Hawkers Centre, Jalan Anson

VEGETARIAN (Chinese)
a. various coffee shops in Jalan Transfer, Jalan Kedah, Lebuh Pitt, Jalan Magazine

Indian
a. various coffee shops in Lebuh Pasar, Lebuh Penang, Lebuh Queen, Lebuh Cina


International Cuisine IN HOTELS

BERJAYA SHARKSFIN, Berjaya Georgetown Hotel, Jalan Burma , Tel: 2269680

CANTON PALACE , Evergreen Laurel Hotel , Persiaran Gurney, Tel: 2269988

FU LING MEN, Cititel Penang, Jalan Penang, Georgetown Tel: 3701188

GOLDEN LOTUS, City Bayview, Georgetown Tel: 2633161

GOLDEN PHOENIX , Hotel Equatorial, Jalan Bukit Jambul Tel: 6438111

HOUSE OF FOUR SEASONS, Penang Mutiara Beach Resort, Teluk Bahang Tel: 8852828

HUA TING, Copthorne Penang, Tanjung Bunga Tel: 8903333

MARCO POLO, Garden Inn, 41 Jalan Anson, Georgetown Tel: 2279167

SHANG PALACE , Shangri-la Penang, Jalan Magazine, Georgetown Tel: 2622622

SHANG COURT , Shangri-la's Rasa Sayang Resort, Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8811811

TAIPAN FINS, The Northam All-Suite Hotel, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Georgetown Tel: 3701111

TAI THONG, Paradise Beachcomber Hotel, Tanjung Bunga Tel: 8908808

INDONESIAN/WESTERN

TIFFINS, Penang Parkroyal Resort, Batu Ferringhi

ITALIAN

IL RITROVO , Casuarina Beach Resort, Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8811711

LA FARFALLA, Penang Mutiara Beach Resort, Teluk Bahang Tel: 8852828

PEPPINO , Shangri-la's Golden Sands Resort, Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8811911

THE VIEW, Hotel Equatorial, Jalan Bukit Jambul Tel: 6438111

JAPANESE
Parkroyal Resort, Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8811133

THE JAPANESE RESTAURANT, Shangri-la's Rasa Sayang Resort, Batu
Ferringhi,Tel: 8811811

KAMPACHI, Hotel Equatorial, Bukit Jambul Tel: 6438111

KIRISHIMA, Cititel Penang, Jalan Penang Tel: 3701188

MALAY

ELIZA THE MALAY RESTAURANT , City Bayview Hotel, Lebuh Farquhar Tel: 2633161

KOPI TIAM, City Bayview Hotel, Lebuh Farquhar Tel: 2633161

WESTERN

EAST 'N' WEST , The Northam All-Suite Hotel, 55 Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Tel: 3701111

FERRINGHI GRILL, Shangri-la's Rasa Sayang Resort, Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8811811

STONEGRILL, Waterfall Hotel, Jalan Utama Tel: 2295588

THE BRASSERIE, Shangri-la Penang , Jalan Magazine Tel: 2622622

OUTSIDE HOTELS

INDONESIAN
TAMBUAH MAS, 560-564 Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Sg. Nibong. Tel: 6569722

ITALIAN

LITTLE ITALY , 8J Jalan Tun Dr Awang, Bukit Jambul Tel: 6421301

MARIO, Ground Floor, Ferringhi Mutiara Arcade, Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8813775

MODESTO'S , Bellisa Row, Jalan Burma

RISTORANTE BELLA ITALIA , 1-7 Bellisa Row, 368 Jalan Burma Tel: 2272195

GERMAN

WUNDERBAR , 417 Jalan Burma Tel: 2291095

JAPANESE

AKEBONO , Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8811263

MATSUKI, 62 Cantonment Road Tel: 2295504

MIYABI, 216 Jalan Macalister, Georgetown . Tel: 2288803

SHIN MIYAKO , 103A Jalan Penang Tel: 2638702

SUSHI KING a. Bukit Jambul Shopping Complex
b. Midlands Park, Pulau Tikus

SYOGUN, Grd. Floor, Axis Complex, Jalan Cantonment Tel: 2283228

TEPPANYAKI JUNCTION , Desa Tanjung, Tanjung Tokong Tel: 8990800

YATAI MURA , 403A, Grd. Fl., Jalan Burma, Pulau Tikus. Tel: 2226018

KOREAN

SAM OH JEONG KOREAN RESTAURANT , 64 Jalan Cantonment Tel: 2294461

SEOUL GARDEN, 1st Fl., Sunrise Towers , Persiaran Gurney Tel: 2298705

THAI CUISINE

D' CHIENGMAI, Burma Close Tel: 2272400

NAM PRIK, 14 Jalan Tengah, Bayan Bahru Tel: 6415281

THE GREEN CHILI , 1, Jalan Sungei Kelian, Hillside , Tanjung Bunga. Tel: 8908727

PLOY THAI, 11-G-1 New Bob Centre, Jalan Gottlieb Tel: 2295911

YELLOW LIGHT , 1C Jalan Fettes Tel: 8991471


SPECIALITY Restaurants

** 747 CAFE, YMCA Bldg., 211B Jalan Macalister Tel: 2296228

** CLUB ILHAM, Junction Jalan Macalister/Jalan Utama Tel: 2297506

** CORNER CLUB, Persiaran Gurney

** CRC RESTAURANT, Chinese Recreation Club, Jalan Victoria Green,
Georgetown .

** DRAGON INN, 27B Jalan Gottlieb Tel: 2277049

** FOONG KIM CHEONG RESTAURANT, 1228R, Mk13, Jalan Paya Terubong. Tel: 8285643

** FORUM, L-3 Island Plaza , Tanjung Tokong Tel: 8990088

** FULL SUN 600cc HOUSE OF DAIRIES, 12 Concourse 4, Komtar

** HOLLYWOOD RESTAURANT, 543 Tanjung Bunga. Tel:8811404

** MANDARIN GARDEN RESTAURANT, 33 Anson Road Tel:2270300 (functions only)

** MAPLE GARDEN, 99 Jalan Penang Tel:2634158

** MAPLE GOLD, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah Tel:2279640

** MAY GARDEN, 70 Jalan Penang Tel:2616435

** MIDLAND'S COURT RESTAURANT, 1-Stop Midlands Centre, Jalan Burma Tel:2267788

** NEW GOODWILL RESTAURANT, 2-01-19 Harbour Trade Cente, 2 Gat Lebuh Macallum Tel:2633823

** STARVIEW, 66 Jalan Burma Tel:2265213

** TAIWAN LITTLE CHEF, Midland Park Tel:226 6871 MBf Countdown Card Member 10% discount

** TOWER CHINESE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Level 59 Komtar, Jalan Penang Tel:2622222

CHINESE/ LOCAL/ WESTERN

** 600CC RESTAURANT,
a. Komtar Tel: 2613373
b. Komplex Bukit Jambul Tel: 6463373
MBf Countdown Card Member 10% discount

** EVE'S GARDENIA RESTAURANT, 15 Lorong Hutton Tel:2637263

** ADAM'S TERRACE, 11 Lorong Hutton Tel:2633762

** EDEN SIDEWALK CAFE , 78 Batu Ferringhi Tel:8811193

** LOKE THYE KEE , 2B Jalan Burma Tel:2920046

** RESTORAN MERRYLAND, 20 Jalan Tengah, Taman Tunas, B. Lepas Tel:6432448

** POPULAR FERRINGHI, Batu Ferringhi Tel:8813454

** POTBLESS
a. 2 Lorong Hutton Tel: 2637984
b. 98 Lintang Mayang Pasir 2, Bayan Bahru Tel: 6412976
c. Grd. Floor, 1-Stop Midlands Centre, Jalan Burma

** SAR CHEW, 37B Jalan Cantonment Tel:2280488 (Opp. Post Office)

** THE SHIP
a. Jalan Sri Bahari Tel: 2633551
b. Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8812142

** VICTORIA STATION, 17 Lorong Mayang Pasir 5, Bayan Lepas Tel:6425988

** SIN KHEANG AUN, Lorong Chulia Tel:261 4786

** HOLLYWOOD RESTAURANT, 543 Jalan Tanjung Bunga Tel:8907268

** ANG HOAY LOR, Jalan Gurdwara Tel:2624841

** JAIPUR COURT, 11 Lebuh Leith Tel:263 0306 MBf Countdown Card Member 10% discount

** KASHMIR, 105 Jalan Penang Tel:3627411

** PASSAGE THRU INDIA, Tanjung Tokong

** TANDOORI HOUSE, 34-36 Lorong Hutton Tel:2619105

** ARATI VILAS, 9 Tanjung Bunga Park Tel:8991379

** INNIRA, (Banana Leaf Rice) Taman Tun Sardon, Glugor.

** DAWOOD, Lebuh King Tel:2611633

** HAMIDEEYAH, 164A Lebuh Campbell Tel:2611095

** TAJUDDIN HUSSIN Nasi Kandar, Tamil Street .

** RESTORAN FTZ , 6A-G/6A-I, Jalan Rumbia, Sg. Nibong Kecil Tel:6461286

** MINAH Restaurant, 362S Sungai Gelugor Tel:6581234

** AUNTY CHILLI'S NYONYA RESTAURANT, Jalan Perak

** CHI-KI NYONYA RESTAURANT, Jalan Burma

** DRAGON KING, 99 Bishop Street Tel:2618035

** HOT WOK, 125D Desa Tanjung, Tanjung Tokong Tel:8990858

** NYONYA CORNER, 1-4-01 Persiaran Bukit Jambul 1, Sri Relau Complex Tel:6413231

** COCA THAI, L-3, Island Plaza, Tanjung Tokong Tel:890 6808 MBf Countdown Card Member 10% discount

** ET STEAMBOAT
a. 7M Jalan Gottlieb Tel: 2261767
b. 4 Jalan Rangoon Tel: 2266025
c. 20 Taman Sri Tunas, Bayan Lepas. Tel: 6413015

** GOH HUAT SENG, 59A Lebuh Kimberley Tel: 2615811

** GOH SWEE KEE, Jalan Sri Bahari Tel: 2636932

** GOLDEN GATE STEAMBOAT , 77 Jalan Cantonment. Tel: 2267509

** KAM RESTAURANT (beef steamboat), 27C Jalan Gottlieb

** BEGINNING OF THE WORLD (Seafood) Batu Maung

** EDEN SEAFOOD VILLAGE, 69A-B, Batu Ferringhi Tel: 8811236

** END OF THE WORLD (Ah Sim), Teluk Bahang fishing village Tel: 8851189

** HAI CHOO HOOI (Tanjung Tokong Tua Peh Kong Temple) CRAB Food, Tg.Tokong Tel: 8990375

** KUAI KUO LE SEAFOOD , 205 Blok K, MK 12, Batu Maung Tel: 6263027

** OCEAN GREEN, 48F Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Tel: 2262681

** SHUANG HUAT SENG, 418 Jalan Sungai Tiram, Bayan Lepas

** YELLOW POINT, 486 Mk2. Teluk Bahang. Tel: 2292314

** FOR YOU YEN VEGETARIAN CENTRE , 347-349 Jalan Datuk Kramat Tel: 2293078

** HAPPY REALM VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT, Jalan Burma Tel: 2271918

** HOCK SIEW CHAI VEGETARIAN CENTRE, 110E Jalan Transfer , 10050 Pg Tel: 2280629

** IM SIM VEGETARIAN, 14 Jalan Mayang Pasir Tel: 6414615

** TZECHU-LIN VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT, 229C Jalan Burma , 10050 Pg Tel: 2263357

** ANNALAKSHMI, Temple of Fine Arts , 1 Babington Avenue Tel: 2288575

** NUTRILAND VEGAN HEALTH FOOD CENTRE . 11 Jalan Rangoon , Tel: 2292910
preservative free, chemical free, msg free, aspartame free, colouring free, pesticide free, plant based, no genetic engineered food

Malaysia My 2nd Home Program (MM2H)

Penang is the place where you can count on for retirement and a place to live in. Alongside Singapore and Thailand, it is one of the top choices for foreign property investors.

According to an Asian property trends survey conducted online last year, two of its cities, Penang and Kuala Lumpur ranked 9th and 10th most favourite locations among foreigners for property investments.

The survey indicated that 55% of the respondents were looking for high end properties in the RM327,157 (US$100,000) to RM1.6 million price range with 15% keen to invest in property ranging from RM1.6 million to RM3.2 million.

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme allows citizens of other countries to retire and reside in Penang with their spouses, children, parents and even in-laws.

Successful applicants will be granted a social visit pass initially for 10 years, which is renewable thereafter subject to the validity period of the applicants’ passport.

Applicants are expected to be financially capable of supporting themselves on this programme in Malaysia.


Upon application:

i. Applicants aged below 50 years are required to show proof of liquid assets worth a minimum of RM500,000 and offshore income of RM10,000 per month.



ii. Applicants aged 50 and above may comply with the financial proof of RM350,000 in liquid assets and off shore income of RM10,000 per month. For those who have retired, they are required to show proof of receiving pension from government approved funds of RM 10,000 per month.



iii. New applicants who have purchased properties worth at least RM 1 million qualify to place a lower fixed deposit amount upon approval.

Successful applicants are required to comply with the following financial criteria upon receipt of the ‘Conditional Approval Letter’ from Immigration Department of Malaysia.



Upon Approval : Aged Below 50 years old

* Open a fixed deposit account of RM300,000.

* After a period of one year, the participant can withdraw up to RM150, 000 for approved expenses relating to house purchase, education for children in Malaysia and medical purposes.

* Must maintain a minimum balance of RM150,000 from second year onwards and throughout stay in Malaysia under this programme.



Approved participants who have purchased and own property which were bought at RM1 million and above in Malaysia may comply with the basic fixed deposit requirement of RM 150,000 on condition that the property has been fully paid and ownership documents such as grant and land title have already been issued. This amount may not be withdrawn until the participant decides to terminate his participation in MM2H programme.



Upon Approval : Aged 50 years and above

* Can either choose to: - Open a fixed deposit account of RM150,000 ; OR - Show proof of government approved pension funds of RM10,000

* After a period of one year, participant who fulfills the fixed deposit criterion can withdraw up to RM50,000 for approved expenses relating to house purchase, education for children in Malaysia and medical purposes.

* Participant must maintain a minimum balance of RM100,000 from the second year onwards and throughout his/her stay in Malaysia under this programme.



Approved participants who have purchased and owned property which were bought at RM1 million and above in Malaysia may comply with the basic fixed deposit requirement of RM 100,000 on condition that the property has been fully paid and ownership documents such as grant and land title have already been issued.This amount may not be withdrawn until the participant decides to terminate his participation in MM2H programme.


Incentives

All approved applicants will enjoy special benefits by the Government for this unique program. The incentives/benefits include :

1. You will receive a 10-year Social Visit Pass and Multiple-Entry Visa

2. After10years,it is guaranteed renewable if you didn’t violate the laws & rules of Malaysia.

3. Duringthese10years,you are free to stay in Malaysia and travel as often as you like.

4. You can import your car or purchase a new car(CKD)tax-free.It is a great savings.

5. School going children will be giving student pass to further their studies at international colleges and universities.

6. Allow to employ a maid.

7. You are allowed to invest and actively participate in business.

8. For housing loan,you can obtain up to 80% as compared to normal 60% for foreign applicants (subject to credibility).

9. No need to obtain Foreign Investment Committee(FIC)approval for purchasing properties in Malaysia.

10.Oversea income is not taxable in Malaysia. Under this programme, for those countries that have a double taxation agreement with Malaysia, your private pension fund remitted to Malaysia is exempted from tax.


Announcement

In line with the Immigration Circular No. 6 of 2009, the following improvements have been made to the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme, with effect from 13 February 2009:



1. Qualified MM2H participants aged 50 and above with specialised skills and expertise that are required in the critical sectors of the economy, are allowed to work not more than 20 hours per week.

The approval to work part-time is subject to the following conditions:

a) The application is approved by the MM2H Special Committee; b) The work contract needs to state that the MM2H participant is working part

time and to attach the work schedule; and c) Total number of hours of week does not exceed 20 hours.



2. MM2H participants are allowed to invest and actively participate in business, subject to existing Government policies, regulations and guidelines which are in force for the relevant sectors.



3. Foreign spouses of Malaysian nationals are eligible to apply for MM2H, subject to the terms and conditions of the MM2H programme. Alternatively, they have the option to apply for the Spouse Programme.



4. The ten-year Social Visit Pass is extended to all Silver Hair and MM2H participants who were previously approved under the five-year Social Visit Pass, subject to the validity of their passports.



5. Employment Pass holders who wish to participate in the MM2H programme are exempted from the “cooling off period” on the condition that their application to participate in MM2H programme is submitted 3 months before the expiry of the Employment Pass.



6. ID-Cards will be issued to MM2H participants with permanent address in Malaysia. This is validated by submitting the Sales and Purchase Agreement or Tenancy Agreement in Malaysia.



7. Age limit of unmarried dependent children is raised from 18 years to 21 years. A declaration stating that the child is unmarried and all expenses during the stay in Malaysia will be borne by the principal participant of the MM2H program is required.



8. ‘Dependants’ include unmarried children aged 21 years and below, step- children, disabled children and parents.



Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions



Q1: What are the main benefits of this program?

A: All successful applicants enjoy the benefit of: 1. Purchasing properties (free-hold and lease-hold permitted) in Malaysia FIC pre-approved 2. Bringing or purchasing one passenger vehicle tax-free (saving up to 300% in tax on a single vehicle) 3. High-interest rates for fixed deposits (currently 2.5% – 3.0 % annual yield) 4. Tax exemption on interest earned through the fixed deposit (see fixed deposit section below) 5. Bringing one domestic helper with you 6. Flexibility of staying in Malaysia as long as you wish (without the one-month limitation of most tourist visas)



Q2: Who grant the approval of MM2H application?

A: The Ministry of Tourism Malaysia and the Immigration Department of Malaysia.



Q3: What do you recommend to improve my chances of approval?

A: While you are required to place a fixed deposit and/or show proof of income, these are only the minimum requirements. In order to receive approval, you must show that you have a strong financial background by providing asset statements, bank deposit statements and proof of any additional income that you derive beyond the minimum required amounts. In other words, simply having RM300,000 in the bank and RM10,000 per month in income will not get approval. Furthermore, we recommend you apply with family members when possible.



Q4: Do I need to be in Malaysia when applying for a renewal?

A: Yes, all participants MUST be present in person with their passport in Malaysia to receive the MM2H visa endorsements from the Immigration of Malaysia. All renewals must be done three (3) months prior to the expiry date. You may do the renewal yourself or you may engage us to assist you.



Q5: Do I have to stay in Malaysia after joining this program?

A: After completing your landing visit to Malaysia, you are free to enter and leave the country without any restrictions.



Q6: Can the Social Visit Pass be extended after 10 years?

A: Yes. If you fulfill the criteria of the Social Visit Pass at the time of renewal, the Malaysian government ensures that the Social Visa Pass will be renewed.



Q7: After joining this program, can I apply for Permanent Residency?

A: No. Under this programme participant is not allow to apply for Permanent Residency.



Q8: Can I use my existing non-cash assets in Malaysia to fulfill the MM2H condition?

A: No, they cannot be considered equivalent to the fix deposit requirement stated in the Conditional Approval Letter by the Immigration of Malaysia. However, we strongly advise you to include whatever assets you have in Malaysia or elsewhere as your supporting financial documents when you make your MM2H application.



Q9: Who qualifies as dependents?

A: Applicants may apply their spouse, unmarried children below the age of 21 and parents above the age of 60 as dependents. All other persons must be shown to be financially dependent on the applicant to qualify as a dependent.



Q10: How long does the approval process take for my application?

A: Most applications will either be approved or rejected within 2 months.



Q11: What were the main reasons applications were being rejected?

A: Most rejected cases were due to the failure in showing proof of strong financial status. As mentioned above, applicants with just enough cash available for the required fix deposit and meeting the minimum requirement for monthly income will not be approved.



Q12: If I have been staying in Malaysia for years, can I apply for MM2H?

A: Yes, provided you have a valid Social Visa at the point of application and are able to fulfill all the requirements. The application can be done while you are in Malaysia.


Q13: How would I know if Malaysia is suitable for me?

A: we can assist you to make a familiarization trip to visit Malaysia so that you can see the country personally and evaluate the advantages of living or retiring in Malaysia.



Q14: When exactly will I obtain the MM2H 10 years Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry Visa? A: Upon fulfilling all the conditions of approval as listed in the Conditional Approval Letter, we will then accompany you to the Immigration Department of Malaysia to settle the visa fees and to obtain your MM2H visa.



MM2H Visa

Q1: What is MM2H Visa?

A: MM2H Visa is a ten (10) years Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry Visa. Successful applicants will be issued MM2H visa as long as the holders do not violate the rules and regulations of the Immigration Department of Malaysia. The MM2H visa is renewable / extendable at the end of the 10 years period provided if you fulfill all criteria set by the Immigration of Malaysia.



Q2: If my passport is valid for the next three (3) years, will I receive the full ten (10) years visa endorsement? A: The MM2H visa endorsement will be given based on the validity of your passport. You will entitle to receive up to ten (10) years visa if your passport is valid for the next ten years. If your passport is only valid for 3 years, you will only be given a 3-year visa. You may receive the balance of the ten-year visa upon renewal of your passport.



Q3: What is the minimum day to stay in Malaysia per year after obtaining the MM2H visa endorsement? A: There is no minimum day you require to stay in Malaysia per year. You may visit and leave as you wish with no restrictions after you obtained the MM2H visa endorsement.



Fixed Deposits

Q1: Which banks am I required to place my fixed deposit?

A: You may place your fixed deposit at any financial institution, including foreign banks with local branches in Malaysia.



Q2: Can my fixed deposit at the Malaysia bank be made in foreign currency?

A: The fixed deposit for this programme MUST be made in Malaysian Ringgits; any amount beyond the stated requirement can be made in most foreign currency.



Q3: How to open Fixed Deposit Account in Malaysia?

A: By presenting the original MM2H Conditional Approval Letter and your passport, you may open the Fixed Deposit account at any bank in Malaysia.



Q4: Can I open a current account with the banks in Malaysia?

A: By presenting the original MM2H Conditional Approval Letter and your passport, you may open a personal saving and current accounts in Malaysia.



Q5: Can I withdraw my fixed deposit any time during my stay in Malaysia?

A:Some banks allow periodical withdrawals of interest earned on your Fixed Deposit. This is subject to the bank's policy and negotiation at the time of opening your account with the bank concerned. Please refer to banking portal www.bankinginfo.com.my for current rates and terms.



Q6: Can I place the fixed deposit in a Malaysia bank located in my country?

A: No. Participants have to open a fixed deposit account in any Malaysian local bank or financial institution in Malaysia.



Q7: Can the purchase of a house in Malaysia which is valued at more than RM500,000.00 be considered as having fulfilled the financial criteria for this programme? A: No. Participants are required to fulfill the fixed deposit requirement or monthly off-shore income for age 50 years and above as the purchase of a house is not compulsory for participants under this programme.



Q8: Am I allowed to withdraw my fixed deposit for a few months and then top it back later?

A: No. Participants are not allowed to do this, unless for an emergency purpose but with prior approval from the Ministry of Tourism.



Q9: When can I withdraw my fixed deposit?

A: After a period of one year, the participant may withdraw his/her fixed deposit for approved expenses relating to house purchase, education for children in Malaysia and medical purposes OR when he/she decides to terminate his/her stay in Malaysia by first informing the Ministry of Tourism of his/her intention at Malaysia My Second Home Centre. Participants can apply to withdraw part of their fixed deposit for emergency cases such as medical purposes, etc. with prior approval of the Ministry of Tourism.



Medical / Health Insurance

Q1: How can I complete the required medical check-up and what type of medical insurance policy should I purchase? A: We will assist you to complete your medical check-up requirement and to purchase the required medical insurance; you will have to pay to the respective parties directly for the fees premium incurred.



Q2: Can I receive medical treatment in Malaysia?

A: Yes you can receive medical treatment from any clinics, medical centres, hospitals throughout Malaysia.



Investment

Q1: Can I open a restaurant, book shop or clinic in Malaysia under this programme?

A: MM2H participants are allowed to invest and actively participate in business, subject to existing Government policies, regulations and guidelines which are in force for the relevant sectors. For more information on investing in Malaysia, please contact: MIDA Headquarters



Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA) Block 4, Plaza Sentral Jalan Stesen Sentral 5 Kuala Lumpur Sentral

50470 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Tel: 603-2267 3633 Fax: 603-2274 7970 Website : www.mida.gov.my Email: investmalaysia@mida.gov.my This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it



Education

Q1: Should I apply MM2H for my children who are / will be attending school in Malaysia?

A: Not necessary, children only need to have the Student Pass to attend schools here and to live with their parents in Malaysia.



Q2: Do kindergarten level children need Student Visas to attend kindergarden here?

A: Children below the school going age (of is 7 years) are not required to apply for Student Visas. They need only apply for a Social Visit Visa.



Q3: If my children are already married and want to study in Malaysia with their husbands, do they need to pay the fixed deposit? A: Not necessary. They can apply for a Student Visa once they have obtained places of study in Malaysia.



Q4: Can the children of successful applicants attend school in Malaysia?

A: Yes, they may do so by having Student Pass and they should be insured throughout their stay in Malaysia.



House Purchase

Q1: Are the participants entitled to any special entitlements?

A: All participants are allowed to purchase residential properties at the minimum purchase price for foreigners established by the respective state governments. The current minimum price (Jan 2010) is RM500, 000.00 per unit for most states.



Q2: Can I purchase a house for residential purpose and a shop lot to be rented out?

A: No, you are only allowed to purchase residential properties.



Q3: Do I have to pay the yearly assessment and quit rent for my houses like the locals?

A: Yes.



Q4: In the event of unforeseen death can the participants Malaysian assets be handed over smoothly to any of his beneficiaries. Does the Government have any restriction on this matter? A: No. Participants may transfer their property to their next-of-kin provided they have made a will to this effect. In the event of lack of documentation, the next-of-kin may claim the inheritance upon proof of identity and kinship.



Q5: Must foreigners buy new Malaysia property only, such as from developers, or can they purchase any property, such as from individual owners (second hand or third hand property)? A: Participants can purchase any type of housing properties provided that it has been issued with CF (Certificate of Fitness).



Q6: Is the RM500,000.00 foreign property ownership regulation applies to landed property only? A: No, it also applies to other properties with strata titles such as condominiums, apartments and service apartments.



Q7: Do I need to obtain prior approval from Foreign Investment Committee (FIC) for the purchase and sale of my house? A: Participants under this programme are not required to obtain prior approval for the purchase and sale of houses from FIC. However, they must write to the Ministry of Tourism giving details of the house (location as well as price) so that a letter can be issued to them certifying that they are eligible to purchase the said property on this programme. In addition, they are required to enclose a copy of the approval letter obtained from the respective State Authority authorising the purchase or sale of the property concerned for FIC information.



Q8: Am I subject to the property gains tax if I make a profit from selling my house?

A: No.



Q9: Can I apply for local financing from a local bank to purchase a house in Malaysia?

A: Yes, you may apply for the loan in Malaysia subject to the terms and conditions of respective banks or financial institutions.



Q10: Can you assist me if I would like to invest in some properties?

A: Yes, we can assist you in your search for the right properties to invest.



Q11: Can I keep pets in my condominium?

A: The By-laws of the Strata Title Act state that a parcel proprietor is not allowed to keep any animal in his parcel or on the common property which may cause annoyance to any other proprietor.



Car Purchase

Q1: What incentives do I have with owning a car in Malaysia?

A: You can choose either: - Import a car subject to approved permit(AP), which is exempted from import duty, excise duty and sales tax - Purchase a locally assembled car(including foreign brand) in Malaysia which is exempted from payment of excise duty and sales tax.



Q2: Is a participant who buys a second-hand local car eligible for tax exemptions?

A: Second hand cars are transacted on a willing buyer, willing seller basis and the government does not levy any sales tax and excise duty on such transactions as such tax exemptions do not arise. However, second hand cars which are imported are subject to sales tax and import duty at the point of entry.



Q3: I would like to import my own car to Malaysia and what are the regulations?

A: Under MM2H, you are allowed to bring in personal car with duty / tax exemption. We can provide you with procedures to do it yourself or you may engage us to do so for you.



Q4: Is there any deadline to purchase a new car?

A: You must apply to purchase your car within six (6) months from the date you receive your MM2H visa. Processing of applications takes about 2 weeks. Applicants have another 6 months to finalize the purchase.



Q5: If I had a car accident and as a result I need to change the car, do I have to pay back the tax exemptions? A: Given the following situations: i. If the car is repaired and sold , it will be subject to the applicable tax/duty according to the prevailing rates.

ii. If car is written off, taxes will be waived. iii. If the participant wishes to buy another car, his / her application will be processed on the merit of each case. Under normal circumstances a participant of this program is allowed tax exemption for a car on a one time basis.



Q6: When can I sell the car, which has been given all the tax exemptions?

A: A cars that has been exempted from taxes and duties under this programme can be sold or its ownership transferred provided the prevailing taxes and duties on the car have been paid prior to the transaction. However, for imported cars the condition stipulated in the AP should be complied before any sale or transfer can be permitted.



Income Tax

Q1: What kind of taxes are the participants of this programme normally subjected to?

A: Income tax is imposed on income earned from investments in local companies and local share market. Please refer to www.hasilnet.org.my for more details on the tax structure.



Q2: Is the interest for the fixed deposit taxable? Some say it is taxable, others say it is not taxable, if the deposit amount exceeds RM100, 000.00 OR if the deposit period is one year. What is the exact regulation? A: Interest earned by an individual from fixed deposit account is exempted in the following situations:-

i. Period exceeding twelve months or more – any amount of interest. ii. Period not exceeding twelve months – interest on fixed deposit account of up to a maximum of RM100,000.00.



Q3: Is income remitted from abroad taxable?

A: Before year of assessment 2004 income remitted from abroad to Malaysia (apart from pension) is subject to tax. However, from year of assessment 2004 all income remitted from abroad is not subject to tax.



Q4: Does the participant have to submit any personal tax declaration to the Income Tax Department of Malaysia, like Malaysians have to? A: Yes.



Q5: If the participants have to submit income tax return to the Income Tax department, are they entitled to any exemptions under the programme? A: They will only be taxed on the income earned in Malaysia after taking into account the personal tax allowances. The income will be taxed according to a progressive tax rate structure.



Q6: I am a German with which my country has a `double taxation agreement’ with Malaysia. I have an early pension and if I stay in Malaysia for at least 184 days, my pension scheme will not be taxed by the German Government and will also not be taxed by the Malaysian government. Is this true?

A: Under this Programme, pension remitted to Malaysia is exempted from tax.



Driving License

Q1: I have an international driving license; do I still need to sit for a driving test to obtain a driving license in Malaysia? A: Malaysia recognizes all international driving licenses. Therefore you do not need to obtain a new driving license in Malaysia as long as your international license is still valid. You may convert your foreign driving license to Malaysian Driving license according to the rules and regulations by the Road Transport Department. You may request us to furnish you with the detailed information and procedures on how to do it yourself.



Import Duty

Q1: if I wish to bring in personal belongings, what are the procedures and are the goods subject to tax? A: Used personal and household effects that have been used for a period of not less than 3 months and will not be disposed of within 3 months after date of importation into Malaysia are not subject to tax. However, the participants of MM2H must make declaration with the Customs as per their requirements. We can provide you more details on the procedures accordingly.



To Bring In Foreign Maid

Q1: How to bring in a foreign maid from the country of origin of participant?

A: You are allowed to bring in a foreign maid subject to the approval from the Immigration Department. We can provide you more information on the procedures of this.





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Church of St. Anne Bukit Mertajam

The St. Anne Church of Bukit Mertajam can trace its beginning to 1833, when Chinese and Indian Catholics from Batu Kawan settled in the foothills of Bukit Mertajam. These people are peasants who had come to clear the land for cultivation. They were part of the congregation that had earlier settled at Batu Kawan in 1933. From there, the Catholics moved to Permatang Tinggi, Macang Bubok and Bukit Mertajam. The church was started by French missionaries from the Paris Foreign Missions Society that started their missionary work in the Far East as early as the 17th century. These missionaries visited Bukit Mertajam from Batu Kawan. There were already a congregation of 190 believers in those early days, farmers who are mostly Chinese Hakka and Indians. The chapel was named after St Anne because she was a popular saint among the French missionaries.

St. Anne is regarded as the mother of Mary, the virgin who gave birth to Jesus Christ. Catholics observe her feast day on 26 July every year. St. Anne have been born around 50BC in either Nazareth or Bethlehem. She is the patroness of cabinet makers and miners, as well as those engaged in the craft of spinning, weaving, embroidery, sewing and other such skills.

The very first Catholic church in Bukit Mertajam, a small chapel, was built on top of the hill, some time between 1840 and 1860. Today, the site of that small chapel is the 15th and final station of the Cross which devotees make in their pilgrimage.

As the congregation grew, another bigger chapel was built in 1865. The site of this second chapel is just behind the wall of taps of Saint Anne's water. The spring water is naturally filtered by the soil and is cleaner than tap water.

The iconic Old Church was built in 1888, under the leadership of Fr. F.P. Sorin. He died in 1907, right on the day of the St. Anne Feast, and was buried at the entrance to the Old Church. This "Old Church", now called the "Shrine of St Anne", is the main focus of the Feast of St Anne every year. It dates back to 1888. The beautiful stained glass above the altar dates to 1896.

In the aftermath of the Second World War in 1948, communist activities threatened the political stability of the then Malaya. The grounds of the church was deemed a prohibited area due to communist activities in the surrounding hills. Fearful that the Chinese community in Bukit Mertajam would be sympathetic to the Communist movement, the British Government relocated them to new villages. The Old Church, located in a "black area", where Communist activities was regarded as strong, became a prohibited area.

For a while, St Anne's church services were conducted at the Convent a distance away. In 1957, Father Thomas Chin had a church building erected to serve the relocated congregation. This new church (the fourth St Anne's Church) is located next to Kim Sen School, and served out the "Emergency" years. For the following 48 years, this was the "new St Anne's church".

In 1977, Father Peter Pang became the Parish prist of St Anne's church. He started the move back to the ground of the Old Church, buiding an altar shed in front of the Old Church. Further restoration was carried out, including the reinstallation of the stained glass and the church bell - there were originally two, but one of them was lost during the Japanese Occupation.

As the Feast of St Anne received increasing numbers of followers, it soon became necessary to construct a new church complex. The new church complex was begun in May 2000, and was dedicated on the St Anne's Feast Day of 26 July, 2002. This new church blends Minangkabau roof design with Gothic architecture to create one of the most imposing structures in Penang. The spacious interior has a seating capacity of 1800, easily making it the biggest church building in the northern region of Malaysia.

The year 2000 sees the latest, and biggest addition to the sanctuary, with the construction of the present church building, on the grounds just below the Old Church. The new building incorporates local elements such as multi-tiered Minangkabau roofing. Seen from the top, it has a floor plan of a cross. The new church was dedicated on the St. Anne Feast Day on 26 July 2002. From then on, the Old Church is called the Shrine of St Anne. It continues to be the focus point of the celebration of St. Anne Feast.

The St. Anne Feast of Bukit Mertajam is one of the 20 biggest Catholic pilgrimages in the world, drawing about 40,000 to 60,000 devotees each year. Within the grounds of Penang St. Anne's Church is the ancient Hindu inscriptions of Cherok Tokun, called the Cherok Tokun Relics.