Named after a rock just off the coast of Penang Island, this upper class neighbourhood is home to Eurasian, Thai and Burmese communities.

[1][2] Established soon after Captain Francis Light's founding of Penang Island in 1786, Pulau Tikus has been home to various cultures since the first days of British rule.

The aforementioned communities have built impressive places of worship within Pulau Tikus, such as Catholic churches and Buddhist temples adorned with architectural designs of their native homelands.

The name Pulau Tikus, meaning 'Rat Island' in Malay, was said to have been derived from the islet's rocks and dunes, which looked like rats at low tide.

[1] To the southwest, James Scott, a partner of Captain Francis Light, founded the Ayer Rajah Estate.

The growth of George Town over the centuries eventually swallowed up Pulau Tikus, turning it into an afflient neighbourhood within the city centre.

[1] In recent decades, urbanisation has led to the mushrooming of upmarket condominiums and commercial properties within Pulau Tikus and the vicinity of Gurney Drive.

In addition to these, an international primary school is also situated at Pulau Tikus, catering to the expatriate community within the neighbourhood.