Fort Cornwallis, built in 1786 by British military commander Charles Cornwallis, is a historic four-pointed star-shaped fortress that served as a key British defence and trade centre in the region Photo: Bernama
Penang is not only a popular tourist spot but also rich in historic sites significant to the country’s independence story.
Known for its beaches, cultural heritage, and diverse food, Penang holds key stories from Malaya's journey to freedom, including landmarks like The Esplanade.
Set against the backdrop of colonial buildings, The Esplanade continues to be remembered as a historic location that witnessed important moments in national independence events in George Town, Penang including the lowering of the British flag ceremony as well as witnessing the declaration of independence on Aug 31, 1957.
Besides The Esplanade (aka Padang Kota Lama), Fort Cornwallis in George Town, built by the British in the late 18th century, was one of the earliest colonial defence structures.
Penang Malay Association president Tan Sri Mohd Yussof Latiff recounted a historic event at The Esplanade on Aug 30, 1957, when the Union Jack was lowered.
The Esplanade is a seafront city square in George Town, Penang. It includes the field next to Fort Cornwallis, known as the Padang, and the seaside promenade. The City Hall faces the Padang, and the Cenotaph is along the promenade. Photo: Bernama
"On Aug 30, 1957, we paraded through Penang in cars, waving the Federation and Umno flags, before gathering at The Esplanade to celebrate this historic moment together," said Mohd Yussof, 94, who was the Penang Umono Youth secretary and part of the organising committee for Malaya’s Merdeka Day celebrations in the state in 1957.
"The lowering of the British flag marked the end of colonial rule in Penang. The flag was handed over to the last British resident, R.P. Bringham, who then departed from Fort Cornwallis by ship, returning to Britain," he added.
Mohd Yussof noted that Fort Cornwallis, the British entry point to George Town, was also where the colonists departed, leaving Malaya an independent nation. He added that on Sept 1, 1957, Penang's first Chief Minister, Wong Pow Nee, read the declaration of independence at a historic ceremony at The Esplanade.
Fort Cornwallis remains the only sea-facing fortress still standing in Penang, originally designed by the British to protect against enemy threats. Photo: Bernama
He recalled the assembly as a lively event with people of various races celebrating independence, during which Wong raised the flag of the Federation of Malaya.
"The Esplanade has hosted various celebrations and campaigns, and was even the first location for Pesta Pulau Pinang in 1970. During British rule, it was also a spot for cricket matches," he said.
Fort Cornwallis, built in 1786 by British military commander Charles Cornwallis, is a historic four-pointed star-shaped fortress that served as a key British defence and trade centre in the region.
It remains the only sea-facing fortress still standing in Penang, originally designed to protect against enemy threats. - Bernama
