By Chan Wei Chao (REN 39846), Team Leader, Bricksmen Team · IQI Realty Sdn. Bhd. · Updated 14 November 2026
The former King Edward VII Memorial Hospital at No. 57, Jalan Macalister, George Town, has reopened as a branch of the Penang State Museum. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow officiated the reopening on 22 October 2026, as reported by EdgeProp on 13 November. The building first opened as a maternity hospital on 13 September 1915.
The key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Building | Former King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, No. 57, Jalan Macalister, George Town |
| History | Opened as a maternity hospital in 1915; the hospital moved near Penang General Hospital in 1955 |
| Reopened | 22 October 2026, after about six years closed. Works included roof and wiring repairs and repainting |
| Ground floor | A Baba and Nyonya (Peranakan) room, and “Future Ecologies”, showing winners of the Penang Art Open 2025 |
| Second floor | Chinese and Indian cultural rooms with furniture and household objects, plus rooms of works by different artists |
| Automotive gallery | In a separate building, opened on 3 February: bicycles, rickshaws, vintage motorcycles and cars |
| Admission | Free until 30 November 2026. From 1 December: RM5 for Malaysian adults and RM25 for foreign adults |
The building will also give the State Art Gallery temporary exhibition space while Dewan Sri Pinang is upgraded, which is expected to start in early 2027. The main museum on Lebuh Farquhar reopened on 23 July after a nine-year closure. The restoration cost was not stated.
What it means for George Town
- Another heritage building is back in use. A restored landmark on Macalister Road adds to the cultural places within the city centre.
- More reasons to visit the area. Together with the Farquhar museum and the planned Swettenham Pier waterfront, George Town is adding visitor attractions.
- For buyers, judge the home first. Nearby attractions are a plus, but price, access and parking matter more day to day.
New launches in George Town on our site include Green City Residence on Macalister Road and G’Vinton (serviced suites from RM560,500). Prices are developer SPA prices and change with availability. See all George Town projects.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the new Penang State Museum branch?
At No. 57, Jalan Macalister, George Town, in the former King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.
When did it reopen?
On 22 October 2026.
How much is admission?
Free until 30 November 2026. From 1 December, RM5 for Malaysian adults and RM25 for foreign adults.
Looking at homes in George Town?
WhatsApp or call +60 10-313 9113.
Sources
- EdgeProp: Penang’s former maternity hospital reopens as museum branch
- Penang Property Talk: Historic Jalan Macalister building reopens as Penang State Museum branch
This article is general information based on published reports as of 14 November 2026. Check the museum’s official channels for opening hours.