Church of the Assumption, Catholic cathedral in George Town, Malaysia

The Church of the Assumption stands on Farquhar Street with white walls, high ceilings, and twin spires that rise toward the sky. The structure combines classical church architecture with designs adapted to Malaysia's tropical setting.

The first church was built in 1786 by Captain Francis Light and his companions, coinciding with the Feast of the Assumption on 15 August. The present crucifix-shaped building was constructed in 1860 and completed in 1861, with twin bell towers and a large altar. A Morton & Moody pipe organ from Oakham, England, was installed in 1916. The church served as Penang's cathedral from 1955 until 2003, when the seat moved to the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit.

The cathedral serves a diverse Catholic community through Masses offered in multiple languages, reflecting Penang's multicultural heritage. Visitors experience how this space brings together people from different backgrounds in shared worship.

The church is open daily to visitors and can be easily reached on foot from Farquhar Street. Visitors should wear respectful clothing and be mindful of ongoing services before entering.

The 1914 pipe organ by Morton & Moody of Oakham, England, was restored in 2013 and celebrated with a choir concert in June 2014; it is one of seven pipe organs still in use in Malaysia and is played at Sunday morning Masses and at Easter and Christmas.