Marriott International Inc officially unveiled the Penang Marriott Complex on Sunday, a significant addition to the brand’s portfolio in George Town, Penang, located along the iconic Gurney Drive. This grand opening not only highlights Marriott’s expansion but also marks a milestone as the company’s 50th property in Malaysia.
The 55-storey Penang Marriott Complex is a mixed-use development that combines three distinct Marriott brands under one roof—a first for Malaysia. The complex consists of:
- Penang Marriott Hotel with 223 rooms,
- Marriott Executive Apartments Penang, featuring 90 suites, and
- Marriott Residences Penang, offering 302 residential units.
A Strategic Milestone for Marriott International
Rajeev Menon, President of Marriott International for Asia-Pacific (excluding China), expressed his excitement over this milestone. In a press release, he stated:
“Opening Marriott International’s 50th property in Malaysia marks a significant milestone in our Asia-Pacific growth journey, a continent that continues to be a strategic driver of our global expansion. The Penang Marriott Complex, the first in Malaysia to include three brands within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio under one roof, is a fitting addition.”
The location of the complex on Gurney Drive, a premier seafront promenade in Penang, aligns with the island’s reputation as one of Malaysia’s top tourist destinations. Menon added:
“We are excited to offer guests and owners Marriott’s signature blend of modern amenities and timeless charm, creating lasting memories in one of Malaysia’s most sought-after island destinations.”
A Multitude of Offerings
The Penang Marriott Complex provides distinct offerings for different types of visitors and residents:
Penang Marriott Hotel
The hotel component boasts several culinary experiences, including:
- Kucina, an Italian restaurant,
- Sago, an all-day dining option featuring local and international cuisines, and
- Lava Java, offering light meals and snacks.
Guests can also enjoy a 24-hour fitness centre, steam room, and a stunning outdoor infinity pool with breathtaking views of the Gurney Street seafront.
Marriott Executive Apartments Penang
Tailored for long-stay guests, the executive apartments feature one- and two-bedroom units, offering a comfortable blend of living spaces, gourmet kitchens, and bedrooms. These units come with access to a 24-hour fitness centre, business centre, and round-the-clock staff and security services. The executive apartments provide a home-away-from-home experience, ideal for both business travelers and families.
Marriott Residences Penang
The Marriott Residences are designed to provide a luxurious living experience, offering a range of amenities including a 45-meter infinity pool, a communal clubhouse, a fully equipped gym, and a herb garden. Residents will also benefit from concierge and housekeeping services, ensuring convenience and comfort. Additionally, there is 24-hour security to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.
A Boost for Penang’s Tourism
At the opening ceremony, former Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng highlighted the importance of this development for the state. He noted that the Penang Marriott Complex will bolster Penang’s capacity to welcome both local and international tourists:
“This development strengthens our capacity to welcome visitors from all over the world, while also enriching the experiences they will have here.”
This sentiment was echoed by other dignitaries present at the launch, including Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, David Marriott, chairman of the board of Marriott International, and Datuk Loh Kian Chong, executive chairman of Oriental Holdings Bhd, the owner of the Penang Marriott Complex.
An Iconic Addition to Gurney Drive
The Penang Marriott Complex adds a modern architectural marvel to Gurney Drive, one of Penang’s most renowned locations. Known for its proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment, Gurney Drive remains a popular area for locals and tourists alike. With the opening of this new complex, visitors will have the opportunity to experience luxury and comfort with the backing of Marriott International’s trusted service and hospitality.
Looking Ahead
As Marriott International continues its strategic growth in Asia-Pacific, the Penang Marriott Complex is set to be a key player in enhancing the hospitality landscape in Penang. With its unique offering of hotel rooms, serviced apartments, and residences, it provides a comprehensive package that caters to a wide array of needs—whether for short-term stays, long-term residences, or real estate investment.
The launch of the Penang Marriott Complex not only marks Marriott International’s 50th property in Malaysia but also cements its commitment to expanding in southeast Asia and meeting the diverse needs of the region’s travelers and property buyers. This project is set to enhance Penang’s growing reputation as a global tourism destination while contributing to Malaysia’s overall economic and tourism development.
This new complex, with its diverse offerings and strategic location on Gurney Drive, is expected to attract a mix of tourists, business travelers, and long-term residents, making it a landmark development in Penang’s evolving urban landscape.
