How Francis Light and enigmatic Martinha chased their dreams in Penang


A statue of Captain Francis Light seen in George Town, Penang in the early 1980s. The book trilogy 'Penang Chronicles' by Rose Gan, now into its second volume, shines a light on the British explorer's epic story. Photo: Filepic/The Star

Captain Francis Light, a British explorer and naval officer credited as the founder of Penang, is a familiar name to most Malaysians.

In George Town, where he was buried after dying from malaria in 1794, you can visit his grave at the Old Protestant Cemetery along Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah Road.

The Star Christmas Special Promo: Save 35% OFF Yearly. T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
Rose Gan , Pearl , Book , Penang , Francis Light

Next In Culture

Malaysian Craft Council has been elected to Unesco evaluation body
'Java Man’ returns to Indonesia in first of fossil repatriation from Netherlands
Seri Negara in KL reimagines the museum experience for a modern audience
Artist's battlefield collection captures lived experience of the war in Ukraine
Shanghai's elderly waltz back to the past at lunchtime dance halls
In Malaysia, the book festival trail is set to expand in 2026
Bolivian Indigenous women take pride in the traditional 'pollera' skirt
Weekend for the arts: 'Moneyfesto' exhibition, 'Siasah' watercolour show
Want to read more in 2026? Here's how to revive your love of books
Egypt's grand museum begins live restoration of ancient boat

Others Also Read