The Penang state government has approved a section of the sea off Andaman Island for potential marina development. The initiative addresses long-standing concerns over the lack of infrastructure for large vessels and superyachts in Penang, a factor that has caused the region to be bypassed by international yacht traffic.
According to a news article from Buletin Mutiara, written by Edmund Lee, the announcement was made by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow during an event hosted by local yacht manufacturer Pen Marine. The chief minister confirmed that the site falls under the jurisdiction of Tanjung Pinang Development Sdn Bhd and has been formally designated for marina development. However, CM Chow added that there is no clear timeline for construction as of now.
Chow acknowledged that while discussions about the need for a marina had been ongoing for years, the recent decision marked the first formal approval of a site designated for that purpose. He highlighted that the location of Gurney Bay has the potential to attract maritime tourism if paired with proper infrastructure. He also proposed that collaboration between Pen Marine, Tanjung Pinang and an Italian superyacht manufacturer could help expedite the project.
Pen Marine managing director Oh Kean Shen outlined the limitations of Penang’s current marina facilities. The marina at Straits Quay has a capacity of only 38 yachts, while Batu Uban accommodates approximately 30 smaller vessels. Neither is equipped to host superyachts. The managing director emphasised the urgent need for a purpose-built facility that could cater to the global superyacht market, which suggests that with the right support, construction could be completed in as little as two years.
The approval of the marina site marks a milestone in the state's efforts to enhance its marine infrastructure and position itself as a stop for international yachting. The development is expected to be a gateway for luxury maritime tourism in Penang, Malaysia.
