GEORGE TOWN, Dec. 3 -- A heritage monument in Balik Pulau that has long been a landmark of the township will be undergoing a RM500,000 restoration.

The monument is a central structure for a small roundabout that faces three main roads leading into Balik Pulau.

According to the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), it was built by Hakka tycoon Koh Seang Fatt back in 1882 in conjunction with a visit by the then-Governor of Malacca Sir Frederick Weld to Balik Pulau.

Water flowed from lion head-shaped spouts into water troughs for horses and bullocks as horse drawn-carriages and bullock carts were the main mode of transport at the time.

Over the years, a portion of the monument and the water troughs were buried under the road surface.

"The ...