New World Park, George Town

Before New World Park became a hub for hawker stalls and business professionals grabbing a quick bite, it held a rich history as Penang's premier entertainment destination. As the site of the city's first-ever amusement park, its golden era remains largely undiscovered by many.

In its heyday, which began with the opening of its gates by the Shaw Brothers in 1939, New World Park transformed Penang's nightlife scene. Offering a diverse range of attractions, it quickly became a favorite among people from all walks of life. Visitors could indulge in roadside ice kacang, witness wrestling matches, catch movies on large screens, and even enjoy sultry performances by entertainers like Malaya's Queen of Striptease, Rose Chan.

The park had a plethora of entertainment options, including two massive theaters, three performance stages, a basketball court, merry-go-rounds, and a boxing ring. Food enthusiasts were equally spoiled for choice, with New World Park serving up a tantalizing array of hawker favorites.

Despite its initial popularity, the place began to lose its appeal in the mid-1960s, and the Shaw Brothers' lease on the land expired around 1969. While another park, Great World Park, was built on the site where the Komtar building now stands, it failed to capture the magic of its predecessor.

Today, although the amusement park is no longer in operation and has been replaced by a food court, traces of its vibrant past remain. Visitors to George Town can still experience a taste of nostalgia with Swatow Lane's famous ice kacang, offering a refreshing blend of icy sweetness and warm memories.

As for the food court itself, it offers a wide range of culinary delights, including Malaysian, Western, and Chinese cuisines. With excellent air ventilation and ample shade, it provides a comfortable dining experience. Customers order drinks at the counter and serve themselves, with must-try dishes including Hokkien Mee (big bowl with good shrimp flavour pasta). Overall, the prices are reasonable, reflecting the typical rates found on Penang Island.