CROWDS who gathered at Penang Hill for its historic centenary celebration were in for some delightful surprises when they arrived at the Lower Station.
Tupai, the attraction’s mascot, greeted the visitors at the gate and brought joy with its playful antics.
Many visitors took the opportunity to take pictures with the furry character, which was introduced in 2013 and represents a combination of different squirrel species native to the area.
The mascot also distributed sweets to children while the Penneo Band entertained everyone with timeless melodies as they awaited the train.
Those who purchased tickets were also pleased to receive special limited-edition buttons featuring the three generations of funicular train coaches that have been used since the railway’s establishment.
Lim (left) and Hong showing the button badges they received during Penang Hill Railway’s centenary celebration at Lower Station.
A total of 5,000 buttons were distributed on that day.
Engineer Daniel Hong, 48, who was hiking with his son, nephew, and friends, considered it a meaningful souvenir.
“The design effectively captures the historical timeline of the railway,” said Hong. “We are regular visitors here – we come almost every weekend. We gather at the station to hike up before taking the train down.
“Penang Hill is an uplifting place to be. It boasts thriving nature and wildlife can be spotted along the way,” Hong added.
Grace Lim, a business development manager in her 40s, mentioned that the hill’s lush surroundings and refreshing air make it an ideal place to relax and escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
“I also appreciate the sense of camaraderie. On certain weekends, our group can consist of up to 20 people.
“This place brings people together and truly reflects the beauty of Penang.
It becomes even more impressive when you realize that the funicular has been in operation for a century,” Lim said after her group posed for photos with a cutout displaying various train carriages.
A clown entertained children by creating balloon sculptures.
The children of Syazwani Mahaiyudin, 34, from Terengganu, were among the delighted recipients.
“We seem to have chosen the perfect day to visit. This is a must-see destination in Penang. We can’t wait to see the view from the top,” exclaimed Syazwani.
V. Narayanan, a 26-year-old administrative assistant from Perak, managed to visit Penang Hill during his overnight stay on the island for a relative’s wedding.
“I have been here a few times during my school days.
“Just by looking around the station now, it appears that many improvements have been made.
“It’s more comfortable and the waiting time has been reduced.
“The hill still maintains its natural charm, and I hope to capture some beautiful images to share with friends and family,” he expressed.
