Xiamen and George Town: Twin port cities with shared heritage

Xiamen in Fujian Province, China, and George Town in Penang, Malaysia, are both port cities that share many similarities, not only in their scenic coastal views but also in their rich cultural heritage.

George Town is home to a large Chinese population, many of whom are descendants of Fujian immigrants. They have preserved many Fujian traditions, including the Mazu (sea goddess) belief, lion and dragon dances, and traditional Chinese temples.

Shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchange in the Straits of Malacca, George Town features a unique multicultural heritage, with a diverse architectural landscape that blends Eastern and Western styles. In 2008, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List together with Melaka. One of George Town's famous attractions is the street art, with amazing murals and other art installations adorning many of the streets.

Gulangyu, a small island off the coast of Xiamen, is also an exceptional example of cultural fusion, featuring a mixture of Chinese and foreign architectural styles. The island was added to the World Heritage List in 2017.

Xiamen and Penang Island, where George Town is located, are sister cities.