Fort Cornwallis, located in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia, stands as the largest and one of the most enduring forts in the country. Constructed by the British East India Company in the late 18th century, it was named after Charles Cornwallis, the Governor-General of India at the time. Originally built using nibong palms, the fort was later reconstructed in brick between 1804 and 1810 under the direction of Colonel R. T. Farquhar. Designed in the star-shaped layout typical of European forts, Fort Cornwallis was intended as a defensive structure, although it never saw battle. Among its most notable features is the Sri Rambai cannon, an ancient piece of artillery believed to possess magical properties. Local tradition holds that offerings of flowers placed on the cannon may bring fertility. Inside the fort, a small chapel—one of the earliest in Penang—hosts memories of historical events, such as the marriage of Francis Light’s widow, Martina Rozells, to John Thain. Additionally, the fort is home to a lighthouse that once guided ships into Penang's port. Today, Fort Cornwallis serves as a popular tourist destination, offering a window into Penang's colonial past. Partially restored, it features exhibits that tell the fort’s rich history and enduring significance.

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