GEORGE TOWN: Penang has been named as one of "15 Best Islands in the World to Retire On" by International Living, a website that covers global retirement or relocation opportunities, earlier this month.
Penang came in third after Malta and Mallorca in Spain.
Others who made it into the list were Ambergris Caye in Belize, Ireland, Roatan in Honduras, Isla Mujeres in Mexico, Isla Colon in Panama, Bali in Indonesia, Koh Samui in Thailand, Las Terrenas in Dominican Republic, Crete in Greece, Cozumel in Mexico, Caye Caulker in Belize and Phu Quoc in Vietnam.
In an article published in internationalliving.com on Dec 14, it said the island of Penang, off the coast of Malaysia, has been a firm favorite among savvy expats for decades, and that as a former outpost of the British Empire, Penang's English-speaking populace makes it easy for North American expats to fit in.
It also went on to say that not only were people friendly and helpful, but retirees could talk to them in English.
"Here, the lifestyle is First World—it's possible to trade-up.
"A couple can live well on a monthly budget of between $1,500 and $2,500 a month. It's a luxury life on an affordable budget with all the comforts and conveniences of home."
The article went on to mention that, known as a foodie haven, Penang's largest city, George Town, was home to eclectic architecture, a vibrant art scene, and the best street food in the world.
It added that Penang was situated almost smack in the middle of Southeast Asia, which made travelling to places like Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia a breeze.
"In a few hours, you could be on the white-sand beaches of the Philippines or climbing through the golden temples of Myanmar.
"And Australia and New Zealand are only a few hours from here too."
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow took to his official Facebook page to say that Penang had made its mark once again as one of the people's favourite locations, with all the comforts and conveniences of home.
"The state government promotes sustainable living. We strive to find ways for everyone to live better.
"We are grateful for the compliments about Penang."
Meanwhile, state Tourism Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the Pearl of Orient beamed with pride after being named third by International Living in "The 15 Best Islands in the World to Retire On", ranking first in the Asian continent.
He said this accolade proved that Penang was still a relevant and competitive tourism powerhouse in the international market, even in times of uncertainties.
"Despite international borders being shelved for nearly two years, Penang has continuously received globally-renowned recognitions and listings.
"With such recognition and the recent Penang Hill Unesco Biosphere Reserve in place, it gives international visitors all the reasons to choose Penang when our international borders reopen," he said.
According to Yeoh, Penang has always been a preferred destination in Southeast Asia, as it offers all sights and sounds of contemporary life without losing its historical charm.
"Penang is home to a galore of heavenly street food, juxtaposed against colonial buildings that tells a historical tale.
"Our pristine nature, tropical climate and excellent connectivity are exactly why you should visit this Pearl of Orient," he added.