Penang Island, Tropical island in northwestern Peninsular Malaysia.
This territory sits off the northwest coast of the peninsula and consists of narrow coastal plains encircling a forested core with a central hill. The landscape covers several hundred square kilometers and connects flat coastal sections with mountainous terrain inland.
A trading company from Britain established a harbor here in the late 18th century and used the location along the strait for commerce. The territory then developed into an important transfer point between India and China.
The name comes from the betel nut palm that once grew across the territory and held commercial importance. Today you hear Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and different Chinese dialects spoken on the streets by residents going about their daily routines.
Two large bridge connections run from the mainland and allow travel by car or bus. Ferries also operate between the coast and different landing points along the eastern side.
A protected biosphere zone covers thousands of hectares and gained international recognition a few years ago. This zone preserves rare plants and animals that live in the higher elevation forests.
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