One of the most popular tourist places in Penang has got to be Penang Hill, the hill resort comprising a group of peaks located on Penang Island’s Air Itam suburb with a rich history and an even richer nature ecosystem.
Furthermore, one of the most iconic things about Penang Hill is its funicular train system which has been operational for close to a century now!
Renamed to Penang Hill Station
Recently though, the funicular train upper station has been closed for upgrading works and now, after 3 years, it has finally reopened to the public with a stunning redesign and improved facilities.
Moreover, the station at the top of the hill has also been renamed “Penang Hill Station”, with the station at the base of the hill renamed “Penang Hill Lower Station” for better clarity among visitors.
Increased capacity and improved facilities
Officially reopened on Saturday (3 February) in a ceremony officiated by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Penang Hill Station now has an increased capacity that could accommodate over 700 visitors at a time.
Dubbed a “beacon for both local and international tourists”, Chow lauded the station’s reopening as marking a significant achievement for the state.
According to the Penang State Government’s monthly bulletin and online site Buletin Mutiara, Penang Hill Station’s accessibility has also been improved with the inclusion of escalators and a passenger lift.
Reopening after a 3-year-long Phase Four redevelopment in accordance with the Penang20230 vision of “A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation”, the architecture of the upgraded Penang Hill Station blends a century-old structure with modern additions for an architectural marvel that serves multiple functions.
These include the integration of educational aspects, sharing the rich history of Penang Hill and its significance as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Reopening was delayed due to the pandemic
The upgrading works started on 20 March 2021 and cost RM10.9 million. It was supposed to take 18 months to complete but was delayed due to the pandemic.
So, what do you guys think of the newly reopened Penang Hill Station? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
Also read: “Grossly inaccurate, flawed” – Penang Hill Refutes USA Today’s Tourist Trap & Overrated Claims
