DRIVING around in Penang has revealed some interesting and peculiar habits of drivers on the island. But first, I must say that self-driving there was fun and even if I got lost, a map should guide me well. After all, it's just a small island.

Since the Malaysian Highway Code and International traffic rules apply, it should be no different driving in Penang... or so, I thought.

When I heard that Penang drivers were notorious for being casual about traffic rules, I thought this was also true of many drivers anywhere.

But I was amazed to see how cars driving along George Town's two-way single-lane roads could successfully make U-turns in thick traffic!

Drivers also had a bad habit of honking when they overtake and turning without indicating. Motorcyclists must be the kings of the road for they would weave in and out of traffic like stunt artistes!

When I looked at several Penang tourism brochures for what to do and where to go, I read the "Moving Around" column on the Useful Information page. There was advice about speed limits and seatbelt requirements but the next line made me respond in agreement because of my own experience.

It read: "Outstation drivers should take note of a potential hazard in Penang - motorcyclists weaving in and out of traffic." Naturally, I exercised more caution on the roads.

In Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, my car started to bounce when driving over one stretch of the road paved with tiles. Slowing down to protect the suspension, I noticed that this was part of Penang's Little India and almost every shop there was a goldsmith.

In spite of the bone-rattling bounce, I thought the paved street created a charming touch to this quaint quarter of the historic city.

Later, when talking to the hotel concierge, I commented on the pretty paved street. Like most hotel concierges who are full of anecdotes, he said the uneven road surface was not merely aesthetic. Apparently, the goldsmiths there were tired of being victims of robbers who managed to leave with the loot in quick getaways. To deter their swift flight, the street was paved with rough tiles that slowed down speeding motorcyclists because speed would get riders vaulted off their seats!

So the next time you're driving along that street, you'd appreciate why that short stretch of road is so bumpy!