High Court

George Town


This impressive 1903 building, with rows of columns holding up balconies and shaded exterior corridors, is Malaysia's oldest high court. Outside is a statue of James Richardson Logan, a British lawyer who earned his reputation, and much popularity, for representing non-whites in the 19th century.

Logan’s work resulted in the official recognition of a number of Chinese secret societies and their festivals. He also pushed for the Transfer of 1867, which resulted in the Straits Settlements becoming their own colony, as opposed to a subset of British India.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby George Town attractions

1. St George's Church

0.07 MILES

The oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia, St George's was constructed in 1816, with backing from the East India Company. In the grounds is a memorial…

2. Penang State Art Gallery

0.08 MILES

Housed in Dewan Sri Pinang, the island’s first multipurpose hall, this small and rather tired gallery includes a permanent collection of contemporary…

3. Town Hall

0.11 MILES

The Town Hall, completed in 1880, has a beautiful restored ballroom that is a regular venue for temporary exhibitions and shows. The Town Hall’s Hokkien…

4. Church of the Assumption

0.13 MILES

The Catholic Church of the Assumption was founded in 1786, not long after the foundation of Penang, but the present building was constructed in 1861.

5. The Star Pitt St

0.14 MILES

The 1906 offices of The Star newspaper have been transformed into this arts, culture and heritage centre, used for various exhibitions as well as hosting…

6. City Hall

0.14 MILES

Built in 1903, this Edwardian baroque building facing the Padang houses the Penang Island City Council.

7. House of Yeap Chor Ee

0.16 MILES

Housed in an exquisitely restored three-storey shophouse mansion, this interesting museum is dedicated to a former resident, itinerant barber-turned…

8. Kuan Yin Teng

0.17 MILES

Dedicated to Kuan Yin, goddess of mercy, this temple is the liveliest place of worship in George Town. The current temple was built in the early 19th…