MembersSite Visits

PHT Site Visit: Church of Assumption & Penang Diocesan Museum

Date: 27th January 2018 (Saturday)

Time: 10am – 12pm

Venue: Church of Assumption, Farquhar Street, George Town Penang

Donations: RM 15 (Members)/ RM30 (Non- members)

Speakers:Msgr Michael Cheah, Architect Edmond Khoo & Curator Mr Khoo Boo Chia

RSVP: info@pht.org.my or call +604- 264 2631

Note: Please wear appropriate attire (no shorts and singlets). Non-Catholic visitors are prohibited from approaching the altar.

History:

The Church of the Assumption was founded in 1786, when Captain Francis Light landed in Penang. In conjunction with their landing in Penang which coincides with the feast of the Assumption of The Blessed Mary on 15 August that year, he and his companions built a church and named it Church of the Assumption. It was the first Roman Catholic church in the northern region of Malaysia, as well as the first church built after the British landed in Penang.

As the population of Penang Island continues to increase, there was a need for a bigger church. In 1860, the present crucifix shaped church, was constructed. It was completed in 1861 and opened.

The Church was closed for 14 months beginning 15 August 2016 to undergo a RM 2.5 million restoration project which will see the building and sanctuary being brought back to her former glory. The church and the new Penang Diocesan Museum was opened to the public from 2nd January 2018. The Museum is the first of its kind in Penang and showcases artifacts and collections related to the practice of Roman Catholic faith in Malaysia.