Letter From Penang

How a 2km rail drove 100 years of transformation on Penang Hill

So much of Penang Hill is still forested, even trails leading away from funicular stations midway through the journey are fully shaded by trees. PHOTO: ELATON PUBLISHING
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

GEORGE TOWN, Penang – Come to Malaysia, and there are any number of highland resorts where you can escape the sweltering tropical heat.

The British colonial elite, for instance, sought respite in retreats like Cameron Highlands and Fraser’s Hill. After gaining independence, Malaysians themselves have continued to develop more highland getaways, including probably the most famous to Singaporeans, the casino town of Genting Highlands.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.