Scores of visitors swamped Penang’s Esplanade seafront shortly after the completion of the new seawall that features a lower section that lets seawater in during high tide. — Photos: KT GOH/The Star
Penang’s upgraded seafront promenade a popular spot for families and tourists
THE Esplanade is one of Penang’s most popular seafronts, attracting locals and holidaymakers alike with its scenic views.
The area was given a facelift last year, with a new seawall and wider promenade allowing visitors to take leisurely strolls or sit back and take in the breezy surroundings.
Buskers dressed as pop culture characters are happy to pose for photos and entertain visitors relaxing at Penang’s esplanade seafront.
During the evenings and on weekends, it is particularly popular with families.
Buskers dressed as pop culture characters can often be seen going around selling candies, making balloon sculptures, posing for photos with the crowd and enlivening the atmosphere with their antics.
Clear days bring views across the channel as far as the mainland.
A cartoon character mingling with the crowd as they enjoy the sea breeze at the Esplanade.
The new seawall includes a lower promenade that reflects the height of a historic seawall dating back to the 18th century.
It has slats between cement blocks to allow seawater in during high tide, so people can get closer to nature.
Buskers in costumes entertaining the crowd with balloon sculptures.
The area was where Captain Francis Light first landed in 1786 to claim the island for the British Empire.
He ordered for the then-forested area to be cleared, creating a large field known as Padang Kota Lama today.
A busker looking like a character from the Korean series Squid Game, handing a balloon sculpture to a baby.
This is due to its location beside Fort Cornwallis, which in Light’s time was just a wooden stockade but later expanded with stone.
If you find yourself in Penang, be sure to visit this iconic Esplanade and enjoy the views.
