 The town centre soon grew, with the addition of banks, schools, shops and a colonial fountain, which was erected in the late 19th century by a local Chinese businessman, Koh Seang Tat.For much of its history, Balik Pulau has been a rather quiet agricultural town, in stark contrast to the busier eastern side of Penang Island where the capital city, George Town, is situated.As agriculture does not feature prominently in Penang's economy, Balik Pulau is said to have the last remaining paddy fields in all of Penang Island.