The church is among 175 Anglican churches in West Malaysia. It is the only pro-cathedral in Southeast Asia, while the only Anglican cathedral in Peninsular Malaysia is St Mary’s in Kuala Lumpur. There is also an Anglican cathedral in Sabah and Sarawak, respectively.

Steven Abbarow, the Anglican bishop for West Malaysia, said the elevation of St George’s Church was based on its strategic location and ability to support other churches in the north.

He said there were plans to divide the West Malaysia diocese into three dioceses. As an initial step, the northern region would have a pro-cathedral, with Christ Church in Melaka next, to serve the southern region.

The inauguration service for St George’s Church as a pro-cathedral was followed by a carnival and concert at its grounds on Farquhar Street. Among the dignitaries present were Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow, deputy education minister Lim Hui Ying, and Catholic bishop Sebastian Francis.

St George’s Church was built in 1819. In 2007, it was declared one of Malaysia’s 50 National Treasures by the federal government.