Marriott International Inc. announced the signing of The Bertam, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, with Maritime Waterfront Suites Sdn. Bhd. Slated to open in Q4 2026, the hotel is expected to feature 282-keys, introducing the brand to Bertam on Penang mainland, complementing Marriott’s established presence on the island.

Located in North Seberang Perai, approximately 25 kilometers from Butterworth and 40 kilometers from George Town, Bertam forms part of a rapidly developing corridor supported by industrial expansion and integrated lifestyle developments. The area benefits from connectivity via the North-South Expressway and proximity to key hubs such as Kulim Hi-Tech Park and Batu Kawan Industrial Park, positioning it within a well-established economic and infrastructure network.

“We are pleased to work with Maritime Waterfront Suites Sdn Bhd on this signing, which reflects our shared vision to bring distinctive hospitality experiences to emerging destinations. The Bertam, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel represents a meaningful addition to our portfolio in Malaysia, allowing us to cater to the evolving needs of both leisure and corporate travellers, while supporting our continued growth across high-potential markets in the region,” said Andree Susilo, Vice President, Hotel Development – Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International.

Tribute Portfolio Hotels, one of Marriott’s collection brands, is a growing global family of characterful, independent hotels drawn together by their passion for captivating design and their drive to create vibrant social scenes for guests and locals alike. The Bertam, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, will be a conversion of the existing 282-rooms five-star Bertam Resort, originally opened in March 2023. Set within the 20-acre integrated Bertam Resort & Water Park Penang development, the hotel will benefit from its proximity to key demand generators, including industrial hubs in Butterworth and Kedah, educational institutions, and healthcare infrastructure, positioning it as a multi-segment destination.

Upon joining the brand portfolio, the hotel is expected to offer 2,959 square meters of function space, including a 1,541-square-meter grand ballroom, 13 breakout rooms, a glasshouse, and event venues, positioning it as a compelling MICE destination within the northern Penang mainland. In addition, present amenities include five resort-style pool suites, a 372-square-meter fitness center, multiple dining venues, a kids’ club, and lifestyle-driven spaces such as a lounge and karaoke room.

Dato’ Mohamed Iqbal S. Habeeb Noohu, Managing Director, Maritime Waterfront Suites Sdn. Bhd., added, “We are delighted to work with Marriott International on this project. The transformation of Bertam Resort into a Tribute Portfolio Hotel marks a strategic evolution for the property, enabling us to leverage Marriott’s global distribution platform while preserving the hotel’s unique character. We believe this will create new opportunities, enhance the destination’s appeal, and position Bertam as a compelling hub for both business and leisure travellers.”