The old Gurney Drive

Imagine a scenario where Georgetown lacks automobiles and high-rise structures, and the beaches are conveniently situated right next to the houses. This was the actual scene during the Francis Light era, and the early settlers witnessed it as well. As soon as the swampy land near Transfer Road was drained, the elite quickly seized the stretch of beaches beyond the Esplanade. As a second-best option, further up in the remote area, another section in Teluk Air Rajah, near present-day Ulu Bagan Jermal, remained vacant. With insightful planning, the municipal authorities recognized the timeliness and suitability of designating this stretch as a public beach.

This decision proved to be a fantastic idea, as residents no longer had to travel long distances, allowing their children to play in the sand right by the beach. A nearly straight road along the shoreline was promptly constructed, and a promenade was established, providing a place for people to enjoy the refreshing evening breeze.

Casuarina trees were carefully selected to adorn the open land and were planted on the eastern approach near the Shanghai Hotel. It took several years for the Casuarina trees to reach their adult height. Although we cannot ascertain precisely how the place evolved and how popular it became, the promenade was constantly improved, indicating a commitment to enhancement.

In the blink of an eye, fast-forwarding to the period after the war and the advent of modern times, the trees finally graced "The Drive." Under their shade, in the afternoons, street vendors found opportunities to offer their goods. A new community had a fresh agenda to attract crowds to Gurney Drive. However, with progress came congestion, and Gurney Drive became more crowded and narrower.

A new era dawned with the establishment of eateries and food courts. It became a delightful haven, especially in the evenings, where I spent many memorable moments. Gurney Drive undeniably transformed into a public gathering place for the people of Penang.

But, as is often the case, when big players, a pleasant atmosphere, and large crowds coalesce, it becomes a prime opportunity. Large capitalists moved in to seize the market and ambience. Gurney Drive began, grew into a remarkable place, and then, sadly, disappeared. This was disheartening for many, like myself, who hold on to cherished memories. I take great care in preserving every fragment of those memories, collecting all the pictures from that bygone era that I could find. My final collection is not on this page, but if you click on this link, you will see all of my memorabilia. Enjoy reminiscing about the good old times and the paradise we once had and lost.