Walk Zone: Air Itam - Once the de facto Capital of Penang
By Lim Sok Swan
September 2021 FEATURE
AIR ITAM (Black Waters, a commonplace name throughout the Malay Peninsula) is an inland town in Penang Island. It is located at the northeastern foothills and blessed with vibrant natural environs. Unsurprisingly, its modern history is related to agricultural and plantation trade, and to ecological preservation.In fact, the Penang Botanic Gardens was initially based in Air Itam Valley. That started out as a spice garden before being relocated to the current site in 1884.Furthermore, the Penang Zoological Gardens was founded...
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References
- Wong Chun Wai. Roaring Times in Old Air Itam, Penang's History, My Story, 17 August 2013.
- Andrea Filmer. Air Itam: So Busy. So Beguiling. Penang Monthly, December, 2016.
- History of Air Itam. The Sun Daily, January, 2017.
- Move to include Ayer Itam in Municipality. The Straits Times, 27 September 1953, page 5.
- Ibid.
- Air Itam Dam, PBA.
- Ashman Adam. Facing COVID-19 and debt collectors, ‘world famous’ Air Itam assam laksa stall closes down after 66 years. Malaymail, 19 May 2021.
Lim Sok Swan
is currently focusing on heritage studies. She believes that more understanding among different groups and cultures can make Malaysia a better home for all.
