Jun 29, 20222 min read

Penang Sentral by the Straits

Next to the Butterworth Station, you will find a complex with a large white Penang Sentral engraved on top. Also, ignore the underwhelming construction area in front.

Parking

There is a multi-level carpark which will bring you to the 6th floor. The steep and narrow ramp is not beginner-friendly, so it is better to drive slowly to avoid accidents. The parking level on level 6 can be quite a challenge to park, for wider parking space you need to go to level 7or 8.

Butterworth Penang — Fantastic town view

Ferry

Yes, you can directly head to the Georgetown area right after your train trip. There is a ferry terminal which has operated for over 120 years, the oldest ferry service in Malaysia.

Follow the Butterworth station’s tunnel on the left that will take you to Penang Sentral. Look for elevators and head to the 2nd floor. Go straight until you have reached KFC, where you will find the entrance to the ferry terminal.

Penang ferry terminal — Entrance to the ferry terminal

KTMB Train Station

Anyone from the island might get confused about the directions to the train station. Don’t worry, it is relatively easy.

Once you have entered Penang Sentral, turn right to where you will find bus ticketing counters. Head to the left corner where you will find elevators ready to bring you to the 1st floor. Follow the arrows to the right where you will find the tunnel to the station.

Reminder:

Check left and right for incoming buses before crossing the zebra line.
The tunnel can be narrow and dark. Be careful of your belongings and safety.
I recommend walking in groups through the tunnel.

Pick Up

If you have someone to pick you up, head to the 3rd floor where the main entrance will be. You just need to wait for your ride to enter the ramp before stopping in front of the glass automatic gate. You can opt for Grab, where the waiting spot is on the 7th floor.

Walk Around

Most of the shops are still closed. You can stay for a quick meal or snack before heading towards your next destination. Alternatively, there is a concourse area on the 3rd floor to enjoy the sea view.

Walking through the glass door with one Starbucks drink in your hand, you will stand under the sun. You welcome the sea breeze hitting your face and blowing your hair. Large, antique ferries will come and go; aeroplanes will fly over the head occasionally. Underneath your feet is a railway track covered in gravel. You wonder, ‘Will the train come from the right to the capital city or heading North to the border?’ Then you realise the last train from the Butterworth train station just departed towards KL Sentral.