The mansion is symmetrical in shape and has an airy courtyard to trap "heavenly chi" and to receive water from the sky. Here, the Feng Shui master applied the principles of Water Dragon Classics to recycle the water gathered from the gutter and guided through pipes to flow through the sunken courtyard, making an exit in an auspicious direction, in accordance to the owner's kua or Feng Shui number. The front of the mansion enjoys a great ming tang and the whole estate is enclosed within a wall enjoying the armchair configuration of Landscape Feng Shui.
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| Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion History |
Cheong Fatt Tze was a man of immense wealth and power in his time. In keeping with his powerful status in society, he had eight wives and numerous concubines. Today, the mansion has been restored to its former splendor and serves as a museum and hotel.
ENTER THE DRAGON
The topography of this turtle-shaped island determines the characteristics and fortunes of the people. The hilly terrain of the land regulates the flow of energy and plays an important part in the Feng Shui of the island. If a giant pa kua is to be placed on the island, it will reveal the life aspirations of Penang. The Northwest (mentor luck) of the island is mountainous and prominent, which indicate strong paternal influences in the political and business arenas, while the hills in the Southwest (relationship) reflect the dominance of women in social and family matters, often holding the purse strings of the household.
Malaysians often jest that Penangnites (as the islanders are called) are too thrifty and careful with money, and the women are strong-minded and protective of their families as the maternal energy is strong here. The centre of the island is dominated by the highest peak, Penang Hill, which local Feng Shui masters liken to a sleeping dragon.
The vibrant energy from such prominent landscape commands respect and influences the sentiments of the Penangnites, who are renowned for their fierce loyalty and the pride they take in their heritage, their culture and especially their culinary skills.
The mountain range traverses to the South where fame luck is energized, resulting in Penang's production of a fair share of famous Malaysians, including a former prime minister; and Jimmy Choo, the much celebrated shoe designer who enjoys international acclaim. In the North (career luck) the land tapers into Batu Feringgi, a stretch of sandy coast, Penang's holiday playground where most of the hotels and seaside attractions are providing employment for the people in the tourism industry.
George Town is established in the Northeast corner of the island which influences "knowledge luck" producing educated and skilled human resources in the government, financial and commercial sectors. It is the administrative and business centre and tourism hub. The Southeast, the sector determining wealth luck, is designated for industrial zones and for Penang's international airport, bringing wealth into the state with trade and tourism from its extensive airline networks.
The most auspicious part of the island is where the famous Kek Lok Si stands. This is the largest and one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. It stands majestically on a hill in the district of Ayer Itam, commanding the best site on the mountain range considered the "dragon's nest" in Feng Shui speak. This complex of temples houses thousands of Buddha statues and at the highest peak stands a stunning giant statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, overlooking George Town blessing the city with growth and prosperity. As long as the "sleeping dragon" is left in peace and not ravaged by over development, Penang will surely continue to thrive. For sure, the visitors will continue to visit, as will the foreign investors who are already coming. This ends Part 2 of Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion History.