Irene Barlian
There are very few places in the world where you would find places of worship of all religions besides George Town, Malaysia.
Located on the northwest eastern tip of Penang Island, George Town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
Cultural diversity and heritage are inseparable in George Town, the capital of Penang Island. In 1786, during British colonization, the Strait of Malacca was developed into one of the most important trading routes, connecting Africa, Europe, India and the rest of Asia.
Appointed as the capital of the Straits Settlements, the countries opened the gate to many immigrants to come and work at one of the busiest trading ports of that era. Immigrants arrived with their own culture and tradition. Different ethnic groups brought their unique customs and established a new community in the new nation they called home.
Residents of George Town live in peace and respect each other. For example, at Idul Adha (Day of Sacrifice), during which cows and goats are usually slaughtered as an Islamic ritual, only goats are sacrificed to respect Hindu residents.
George Town is a strong example for a world that from time to time is conflicted by ethnicity and religion. [kes]