The Green Lung of Penang – Tradition, Tranquility & Nature
Southwest Penang Island District, occupying the southern and western part of Penang Island, is a district rich in rural charm, environmental diversity, and agricultural importance. With Balik Pulau as its main town, this district offers visitors and locals an escape from city life through its fruit orchards, fishing villages, serene beaches, and Malay kampung culture.
Formation and Historical Background
- Established: Officially structured as a separate district during the British colonial administration in the early 1900s.
- Historically, this region served as a plantation and fishing zone, inhabited primarily by Malay and Chinese farmers.
- The name Balik Pulau literally means “Back of the Island,” as it lies on the west coast, hidden behind the central Penang Hill range.
- The district remained relatively less developed due to limited access, preserving its natural landscape and cultural authenticity.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| District Name | Southwest Penang Island District |
| State | Penang |
| District Capital | Balik Pulau |
| Area | Approx. 175 sq. km |
| Population (2025 est.) | Approx. 90,000 |
| Local Authority | Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang (MBPP) |
Administrative Subdivisions (Mukim)
This district includes several mukims and settlements such as:
- Balik Pulau
- Teluk Kumbar
- Gertak Sanggul
- Bayan Lepas (partially)
- Sungai Rusa
- Pondok Upeh
Government and Notable Figures
| Position / Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| District Administrative Head (Southwest) | Under MBPP | Local governance under city council |
| Member of Parliament (MP – Balik Pulau) | YB Muhammad Bakhtiar Wan Chik | Former Deputy Minister of Tourism |
| State Assemblyman (ADUN – Telok Bahang) | YB Zolkifly Md Lazim | Represents western coastal zone |
| State Assemblyman (ADUN – Pulau Betong) | YB Mohd Tuah Ismail | Advocates for rural infrastructure |
| Local Agro Leader | Encik Ramli Pak Ali | Veteran nutmeg and durian farmer |
| Cultural Figure | Puan Noridah Mohamad | Kampung craft promoter and educator |
Key Towns and Villages
- Balik Pulau – District center, marketplace, schools
- Teluk Kumbar & Gertak Sanggul – Coastal villages, seafood hubs
- Bayan Lepas (south) – Industrial zone overlap
- Kampung Jalan Baru & Sungai Rusa – Traditional Malay settlements
Economy & Livelihood
- Agriculture:
- Nutmeg, durian (Balik Pulau Musang King), cloves, rambutan
- Fishing:
- Coastal catch, ikan kering, shrimp, kampung aquaculture
- Agro-tourism:
- Homestays, farm visits, fruit festivals
- Handicrafts & Local Industries:
- Traditional kueh, coconut-based snacks, weaving
Education & Institutions
- Public secondary and primary schools in each major kampung
- Islamic schools, pondok institutions, and tahfiz centers
- Technical training linked to agriculture and craft industries
- Community and women’s learning programs (e.g. Pusat Kegiatan Kemas)
Healthcare Facilities
- Klinik Kesihatan Balik Pulau (major government clinic)
- Smaller health clinics in Teluk Kumbar and surrounding kampungs
- Outreach and mobile medical teams in rural areas
Transport & Connectivity
- Main access via Jalan Tun Sardon and Jalan Balik Pulau
- Public buses connect to George Town and Bayan Lepas
- Limited but scenic roadways through Penang Hill passes
- Expansion of bicycle routes and eco-mobility projects ongoing
Tourism & Attractions
- Balik Pulau Agro-Tourism – Durian farms, nutmeg orchards
- Pantai Pasir Panjang & Pantai Malindo – Hidden and peaceful beaches
- Saanen Dairy Goat Farm & Tropical Fruit Farm
- Fishing Villages and Jetties in Teluk Kumbar & Gertak Sanggul
- Malay Traditional House Stays & Craft Tours
- Scenic drives through paddy fields, hills, and kampung trails
Culture & Local Cuisine
- Traditional Malay-Muslim culture is dominant
- Famous dishes:
- Laksa Balik Pulau, Ikan Bakar, Nasi Lemuni, Kuih Talam, Durian Ice Cream
- Cultural practices:
- Kenduri, tahlil, Maulid processions, gotong-royong
- Arts and heritage promoted through local centers and NGO initiatives
Summary
Southwest Penang Island District is the green soul of Penang—a district that offers calm, community, and countryside beauty. Whether you are picking fruits, watching sunsets over the sea, or learning to cook kampung-style meals, this district invites you to breathe, explore, and reconnect with Malaysia’s traditional rhythms.