Old Protestant Cemetery, George Town

Established in 1786 by the British colonial administrators, this site is Penang's oldest Christian cemetery. Beneath a canopy of magnolia trees lie the resting places of Captain Francis Light and numerous others ranging from governors and merchants to sailors and Chinese Christians fleeing the Boxer Rebellion in China, only to succumb to fever in Penang. Notably, the cemetery also houses the tomb of Thomas Leonowens, a young officer who wed Anna, the schoolmistress to the King of Siam, immortalized in the musical "The King and I".

In 2012, the cemetery underwent a comprehensive conservation effort, beginning with the removal of weeds, mosses, and fungi from the headstones. Subsequent phases involved repairing tomb structures, eliminating encroaching trees, and introducing amenities such as walkways, seating areas, and rest spots for visitors. These efforts concluded by the year's end, with significant improvements in visibility and cleanliness. Many tombstones, once obscured by grime and mold, were cleaned to reveal their original white plaster surfaces.

While unconventional, exploring graveyards can be a fascinating experience, offering insights into the lives and histories of those interred. However, visitors should be mindful of the abundance of mosquitoes in the area and come prepared with repellent. Also, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits the cemetery grounds.