Penang may soon welcome a new marina capable of hosting large vessels and superyachts, as the state seeks to attract more high-end maritime visitors and avoid being sidelined by better-equipped destinations.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow recently announced that the state government has approved a section of the sea off Andaman Island, facing Gurney Bay, for potential marina development. The site falls under the jurisdiction of Tanjung Pinang Development Sdn Bhd.

Speaking at an event hosted by local yacht builder Pen Marine, Chow acknowledged that the lack of a proper marina has long been a concern for the state. “Penang has been bypassed by the international yachting community due to limited facilities. While the site has been approved, there is no definitive timeline yet for construction,” he said.

He suggested that collaboration between Pen Marine, Tanjung Pinang, and international partners—such as an Italian superyacht manufacturer—could help move the project forward. Chow added that Gurney Bay presents a strategic and attractive location for such a facility, particularly if supported by proper infrastructure.

Pen Marine managing director Oh Kean Shen echoed the urgency, pointing out that Penang currently has only two small marinas—Straits Quay and Batu Uban—with limited berthing capacity and insufficient infrastructure for large yachts. “Straits Quay can hold 38 yachts and Batu Uban about 30, but mostly small vessels. We urgently need a facility tailored to superyachts and mega yachts,” he said.

Oh emphasized that superyacht owners are keen to explore destinations like Penang and that, with the right investment and collaboration, the proposed marina could be completed in as little as two years.