Goodbye, Penang Ferry in 2021

Once an iconic landmark of Penang, the Penang Ferry has officially buried into history by ceasing its operation in 2021. Penang Ferry is the oldest ferry operation in Malaysia, having connected the people in Penang Island and Butterworth since its inception in 1894 (that is a whopping 126 years of history!). The ferry operation initially was meant to carry people and cargo only, but later expanded into carry motor vehicles. For many Penangites, that included us, Penang Ferry has embedded a vivid memory \has a strong sentimental value and served as a heritage in our heart. Undeniably, we were sad to see these iconic landmark has ceased into history. 

I still recall when I was small, commuting via ferry was one of the excited moment whenever my parents bring me across the strait. Sometimes, I will even query my parents why they choose to commute bridge over ferry, not understanding the journey via ferry will take a longer time depending on destination. The feeling when my mother bring me to the edge of ferry, and feeling the breeze wafting my face still feels sentimental whenever I thought of it. 

Of course, that was the feeling of me as a kid. For many people, the Penang Ferry served as a mode of commuting for work purposes, while tourists took it as an experience. Coming into 2021, most of the ferry will be decomissioned with only one left to ferry trishaws, bicycles and motorcycles. Meanwhile, foot passengers will embark on a speed boat at Port Swettenham to travel across the strait, while waiting the new catamaran boat comission into service in mid 2022. All cars will have to travel via the bridge.

Most likely Penang Ferry will not be returning to the scene, despite politicians has vowed to bring it back to service. Life goes on, and as time goes by, most people tend to forget this national heritage. Nevertheless, Penang Ferry has lived and served us well and we could not wipe this off the history.

Adios, Ciao, Adieu Penang Ferry, though I hoped it was Au Revoir.