Beyond the famed shores of Penang Island stretches the land of Seberang Perai – a vast mainland region spanning 751 square kilometres, more than twice the size of the island.
Once the agricultural heartland of Penang, Seberang Perai – also known as Province Wellesley – has evolved into a thriving city with a diverse and productive economy. Its layered past dates back over 5,000 years, beginning with the prehistoric remains of Guar Kepah and shaped over time by the Bujang Valley civilisation, the Kingdom of Kedah, and British colonial rule.
This book takes you on a journey through Seberang Perai’s varied landscapes, from picturesque paddy fields and fishing villages to the vibrant town centres of Butterworth, Bukit Mertajam, and Nibong Tebal. It highlights historic shophouse streetscapes, serene mangrove forests, and lush hiking trails, along with insights into local flavours and dishes that reflect Seberang Perai’s multicultural heritage.
With more than 400 photographs and illustrations, detailed maps, and insightful narratives, this book is your gateway to experiencing Seberang Perai beyond the ordinary. Let’s start exploring Seberang Perai!
About the Author
Khoo Su Nin @ Khoo Salma Nasution was born in Penang, of Baba Nyonya (Straits Chinese) descent. She is a graduate of Duke University, United States. She was formerly editor of Pulau Pinang Magazine and Past President of Penang Heritage Trust.
As the great-great-granddaughter of Khoo Soo Hong, a founding senator of the Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, she has her roots in the Acheen Street–Armenian Street historic enclave.
She is also custodian of the Sun Yat Sen Museum Penang at 120 Armenian Street and co-founder of Areca Books with a shop along Lebuh Aceh.
A few of her works include, Streets of George Town, Penang (1993), Sun Yat Sen in Penang (2008), The Chulia in Penang (2014) – winner of the 2015 ICAS Book Prize and Sejarah Bergambar Seberang Perai (2015).
Book Launch
Areca Books Launches Exploring Seberang Perai and a Series of Exhibitions & Talk
In The News:
Explore Seberang Perai as future of Penang, says heritage activist
