Is Penang Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

As with any destination, there are always safety concerns to consider before planning a trip. But generally speaking, Penang is safe for travelers.

That being said, it’s always important to practice common sense and awareness while traveling anywhere.

In this guide, we’ll talk about safety tips for solo travelers, female travelers, and expats. We’ll cover the safest areas in Penang and a few things to avoid (common scams included).

Is Penang Safe For Tourists?

As with most tourist destinations in Malaysia, Penang is generally considered safe for visitors and tourists.

Of course, if you’re traveling here, it is always important to practice common sense and take precautions to ensure your personal safety. Knowing the local language, Malay, can also help you feel more comfortable in new surroundings.

Like any other city, there are some instances of petty crimes including pickpocketing and thefts. These mainly occur in tourist hotspots and particularly busy areas.

As a result, it is advised not to carry large sums of cash and avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

However, for the most part, Penang is extremely safe and welcoming to tourists and it has a lower crime rate than other cities across Malaysia.

Is Penang Safe To Travel Now?

Penang is safe to travel to now. Like in most countries, Covid-19 restrictions are not an issue anymore.

Apart from that, there’s no main reason why it would be unsafe to travel to Penang now.

However, it is advised to check the latest guidelines and protocols set by the local government to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Why Is Penang “Dangerous”?

Why does Penang have a reputation for being dangerous?

Thankfully, Penang does not have a reputation for being dangerous. There have been some isolated incidents of crime in the past, but these incidents of theft and petty crime are not unique to Penang and can happen in any city across the world.

Penang has some areas that are considered less safe than others. These are the more isolated areas and it is advised to exercise caution if you are there alone.

Overall, while Penang may have had isolated incidents of crime in the past, it is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates compared to other cities in Malaysia.

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The Safest Areas In Penang

Penang overall is a safe destination and tourists should feel very comfortable in most areas of the city.

However, some areas may be considered safer than others, particularly for tourists. Here are some of the safest areas to stay in Penang:

• George Town: Definitely the most popular area in Penang, George Town is the historic center of Penang and has lots to do and see. There is a huge street food scene and lots of attractions in the area. It is known for its low crime rate and you can find a variety of great places to stay here.
• Batu Ferringhi: Another area that is very popular with tourists is Batu Ferringhi. Here you will find some of the best beaches in the area with a lively night market and lots of tourist activities. Since it is such a busy tourist spot, this area is well-patrolled by police to keep it safe.
• Gurney Drive: A more upmarket part of Penang is Gurney Drive. Here you will find an abundance of upscale hotels and a very low crime rate as there is plenty of security in the area. You will also find loads of options for high-end shopping.
• Tanjung Bungah: If you are looking for a quieter area Tanjung Bungah will be perfect for you. Here you will find lots of families and expats as it is a great area to live. There are quiet beaches, lots of great residential neighborhoods, and lots of parks. The area also has a very low crime rate and you will find plenty of options for restaurants and cafes here.
• Bayan Lepas: A less popular option for tourists, Bayan Lepas is more of an industrial hub in Penang. However, there are also lots of accommodation options here for tourists, as well as shopping and dining nearby. This is considered a very safe area.

Things To Avoid In Penang

To keep you safe during your travels in Malaysia, there are a few things to avoid in Penang.

First, watch out for common scams. These include the following:

• Unlicensed taxis
• Isolated areas
• Displaying valuables
• Unfamiliar neighborhoods
• Illegal activities

Unlicensed taxis: One of the main scams in this area is unlicensed taxis ripping tourists off for extra money. It is best to ask your accommodation to book you a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Grab to get around Penang.

Isolated areas: If you are not familiar with the area or are just visiting on vacation, it is important to avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night. Get a taxi where you can and stick to the main tourist spots in the city.

Displaying valuables: It is advised in Penang not to carry large sums of money or carry any valuables, such as expensive jewelry publicly. This can make you a target for theft or pickpocketing, so it’s best to keep those things in a safe place in your accommodation.

Illegal activities: As with any destination, it’s best to avoid any illegal activities, including drug use or purchasing counterfeit goods. These could land you in trouble with the police and there are severe punishments.

Driving In Penang

If you are not used to driving in a busy area, it is advised not to drive in Penang. Driving here can be a challenge for tourists as the road can be very busy and also not in the best condition.

Some of the roads can be extremely narrow around the city and there can be huge volumes of traffic during peak hours in the city.

This, plus the fact that locals do not always adhere to travel rules, leads to stressful driving situations in Penang. It’s also important to be aware that parking can be scarce in busy tourist spots such as George Town.

If you need to rent a car, familiarize yourself with local traffic rules beforehand. If you are not used to driving a moped, do not rent one in Penang. This can be very dangerous for tourists as it is such a busy place.

It is best to use ride-hailing apps like Grab instead to ensure your safety.

Penang For Solo Travelers

Penang has been described as a great place for solo travelers to visit. Here you can find a unique blend of culture, modern amenities, and a rich history.

It is safe and enjoyable to explore the streets of George Town as a solo traveler in Penang. Here you can enjoy the vibrant street art scene and the endless amounts of street food available.

To experience street food to its fullest, you can join a street food tour with a local guide.

You can wander around the extremely busy night markets in the area including the famous Batu Ferringhi.

Here you will get a chance to experience the local culture and cuisine with some delicious food and lots of shopping available.

If you are a solo traveler looking for a more low-key and relaxing visit to Penang, you can visit Tanjung Bungah or Batu Ferringhi. These beach areas provide a relaxing atmosphere and lots of outdoor activities.

You can enjoy the Penang National Park here which offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and surrounding areas.

Penang has a thriving hostel scene where it is easy to meet other solo travelers. You can join organized group tours through your hostel, guesthouse, or local tour guides to get to know other travelers in the area.

For the best experience and to make sure you will have a reputable guide, it is recommended to book tours and activities in advance in Penang.

Overall, Penang is a friendly and welcoming destination for solo travelers, offering a range of experiences to suit any traveler’s interests and preferences.

Penang For Female Travelers

Luckily, Penang is also a great destination for female travelers, so it should be on your list if you’re looking for your next destination as a female traveler.

Due to the low crime rate and welcoming culture, many female tourists feel safe traveling around Penang, even on their own.

Female travelers can safely explore the city’s food markets and historic streets without any major concerns for their safety.

Of course, just like any city across the world, you need to be careful of your personal belongings and take the necessary steps to stay safe when traveling and at night.

The majority of the country is Muslim, therefore it is recommended to dress modestly while traveling in Penang. Tourists should avoid wearing clothes that are too revealing, so they can be respectful of the local culture and religion.

As is the case with all tourists in the area, female tourists should avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

You can also choose to stay in women-only dorms in hostels around Penang for an extra level of safety and comfort.

For extra safety, make sure you buy a Malaysia SIM Card so you can stay online and connected if you are traveling alone.

Overall, Penang is a welcoming and safe destination for female travelers, and with a little common sense and precaution, visitors can enjoy a wonderful and memorable trip to this beautiful city.

Penang For Digital Nomads And Expats

In the past few years, Penang has become a hugely popular destination for digital nomads and expats.

Here you can find a high quality of life and lots of nature, all at an affordable price.

The city has great internet and you can find several co-working spaces around Penang, because of this, lots of remote workers choose Penang as a destination for some remote working and holidaying combined.

Penang has a relatively low cost of living making it an attractive option for expats and digital nomads alike. You can find affordable accommodation, food, transport, and activities here.

You can also find some luxury accommodation in Penang for cheaper than you would pay in other major cities which is also a draw for many tourists.

You can enjoy a high quality of life in Penang with great healthcare facilities and a very welcoming community.

There are also several international schools in the area for expats wishing to relocate here with their children.

For your downtime, Penang also offers lots of options for recreation in the city. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches in the area and explore the national park. As well you will find lots of cultural sites throughout the city.

The food in Penang makes it hugely popular as a destination too as you can find lots of cheap local and international cuisine here.

Overall, Penang is a great destination for digital nomads and expats looking for a high quality of life at an affordable cost, with plenty of opportunities for both work and play.

Extra Safety Tips

Now that we’ve covered a few essential safety tips for Penang, here are some additional recommendations to keep in mind:

• Be respectful of Malaysian culture and the Muslim religion.
• Use mosquito repellent and take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever.
• When it comes to street food, be cautious and use common sense. Stick to busy stalls with fresh ingredients, and avoid food that’s been sitting out for a long time. After all, you don’t want to ruin your holiday with food poisoning, do you?

Penang Travel Insurance

As a traveler, it’s always important to have adequate travel insurance. In case of an emergency or unexpected event, having insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection.

We recommend SafetyWing for comprehensive coverage in Penang and throughout your travels in Malaysia.

Personally, I’ve been using SafetyWing for several years now, and I’ve had great experiences with them.

So do yourself a favor and don’t leave home without travel insurance – it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Final Thoughts On Safety In Penang

Overall Penang is an extremely safe destination for travelers. Of course, it is important to exercise caution and common sense when traveling anywhere new, but you can enjoy your trip here without too much worry.

While in Penang, please keep in mind that safety isn’t just about avoiding danger – it’s also about respecting local culture and customs.

So have a fantastic time in Penang, but do so responsibly and respectfully.

Are you traveling to Malaysia soon? Read one of the following guides:

• Is Kuala Lumpur safe
• Best places to live in Malaysia
• Kuala Lumpur itinerary