DESPITE its coastal charm and status as the “Silicon Valley of the East”, Penang has long lagged behind regional destinations such as Langkawi in the global yachting circuit due to a lack of marina infrastructure for large vessels and superyachts.

That may soon change, following the Penang state government’s decision to approve a section of reclaimed land off Andaman Island, fronting Gurney Bay, for the development of a full-fledged marina.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the marina is crucial for Penang to regain relevance among international yachters, who currently bypass the island for better-equipped destinations.

“We have been talking for years about the need for a marina in Penang.

“Currently, we have approved a section of the sea for marina development, specifically off Andaman, facing Gurney Bay, under Tanjung Pinang Development Sdn Bhd,” Chow said during a visit to local yacht manufacturer Pen Marine Sdn Bhd.

Chow said Penang’s yachting potential has remained largely untapped due to its limited and under-maintained marina infrastructure.

“Perhaps there is potential for collaboration between Pen Marine, an Italian superyacht manufacturing group, and Tanjung Pinang to expedite the project,” he added.

He also highlighted Gurney Bay’s ideal location, saying that the success of such a development would depend on the integration of suitable amenities and social infrastructure.

Pen Marine managing director Oh Kean Shen noted that existing facilities in Penang are insufficient, with Straits Quay Marina accommodating only 38 vessels and Batu Uban Marina just 30, most of them small.

“The marina at Straits Quay can only hold 38 yachts, while Batu Uban can accommodate about 30, most of which are small vessels. We urgently need a marina designed specifically for superyachts and mega yachts,” he said.

He added that the Tanjong Marina off Weld Quay remains in a dilapidated state and is currently unusable.

Oh stressed the global appeal of Penang and said many yacht owners would include the island in their itineraries if adequate berthing and services were available.

Langkawi, in contrast, has risen to prominence in recent years as a preferred regional yachting hub with established marina facilities and an international yacht registry supported by key players such as Tropical Charters Sdn Bhd. - May 19, 2025

By Ian McIntyre