AS THE FIRST colonial hill station in Malaysia, Penang Hill is an indelible part of The Penang Story. But beyond the administrative function that the station fulfilled, the highlands that form the geological spine of Penang Island is a cultural and ecological treasure trove.
Besides being a peaceful back garden for Penang lovers who love hiking, jogging or leisure walking, or who seek a slightly lower temperature to pass the day, this ridge hides historical buildings and its peaks and valleys are a haven of biodiversity and historical buildings.
The most popular way to ascent Penang Hill is through its funicular railway system, the only one of its kind in Malaysia. The Lower Station is located at the top end of Jalan Bukit Bendera (formerly Hill Railway Road). In the 1930s, nine-seater trolleybuses were built explicitly to provide a shuttle service going from the Lower Station to Jalan Air Itam. And at the Air Itam Roundabout, other means of public transport took over to link this important node to the busy seaport at Weld Quay, George Town.1
