Melaka Straits Medical Centre Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Oriental Holdings Berhad, formalised a joint venture with Ideal Hasrat Bumiraya Sdn Bhd, part of Ideal Property Group on 28 May 2026, for the proposed development of a tertiary medical centre, named Ideal Oriental Medical Centre, to be undertaken by Star Hill City (M) Sdn Bhd.

The collaboration signals a bold step towards redefining healthcare delivery in Northern Malaysia through a future-ready medical ecosystem that integrates advanced tertiary care, innovative technology, and seamless urban connectivity.

Planned on a 1.9-acre site within the fast-growing Queens Waterfront masterplan, the proposed multidisciplinary medical centre – is the second hospital by Oriental Holdings Berhad – is envisioned to serve both local and international patients, with a strong focus on high-demand subspecialty and tertiary healthcare services. The proposed development is expected for completion by end of 2030.

The proposed medical centre aims to cater to the healthcare needs of residents in Gelugor, Bayan Baru, Bayan Lepas and surrounding communities, alongside Penang’s growing population of professionals, engineers, and industrial workforce concentrated within the Bayan Lepas manufacturing corridor. The development is also strategically positioned to support Penang’s thriving medical tourism sector, particularly international patients seeking advanced healthcare services in the region.

Designed as a digitally driven medical centre, the proposed facility is expected to incorporate advanced medical technologies, robotic-assisted systems, digital infrastructure, and patient-centric innovations to enhance both clinical excellence and patient experience.

Beyond healthcare delivery, the proposed development is also anticipated to contribute positively to Penang’s economy through the creation of high-skilled employment opportunities across healthcare, nursing, allied health, hospitality, digital health, and support services.

With aspirations to attract the foreign-trained Malaysian healthcare talents to return and serve in their homeland, the hospital is expected to generate approximately 1,000 employment opportunities upon full operation, further strengthening Penang’s position as one of Malaysia’s leading destinations for healthcare and medical tourism.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dato’ Sri Loh Kian Chong, Executive Chairman of Oriental Holdings Berhad, said the healthcare segment has a long-term vision to improve access to advanced healthcare while supporting the evolution of integrated urban living.

“This collaboration represents more than a hospital development — it reflects our commitment towards building a future-ready healthcare destination that integrates medical excellence, innovation, accessibility, and community wellbeing,” he said.

“As a stakeholder in Ideal Oriental Medical Centre, this partnership represents a landmark moment for the company”, said Puan Sri Datuk Joanne Phor, the Director of Ideal Hasrat Bumiraya Sdn Bhd, who also serves as Executive Director of Ideal Capital Berhad.

The establishment of Ideal Oriental Medical Centre within Queens Waterfront – Ideal Property Group’s flagship integrated waterfront development in Penang, is elevating Queens Waterfront beyond a premier waterfront township into a truly holistic destination that brings together quality living, wellness, business, and connectivity. Driven by a shared leadership vision, this strategic step into the medical industry marks an exciting new chapter for Ideal Property Group, tapping into a sector that continues to demonstrate strong demand both domestically and regionally.

The proposed medical centre development is expected to reinforce Penang’s position as one of Malaysia’s leading healthcare hubs while supporting the state’s long-term aspirations in healthcare excellence, medical tourism, and sustainable urban growth.

The wait is over! STARK Development is proud to officially unveil STARK Autograph as Malaysia’s first Hotel-Serviced Suites with a dedicated pool event venue. Since its announcement in February this year with a tentative name of STARK 2.0, the response has been truly impressive. STARK 2.0 was receiving an overwhelming registrations, what more now with the distinctive name STARK Autograph. Strategically rising in the heart of Bayan Lepas, Penang, just 1.3km from Penang International Airport, this is not merely a property launch. It is a defining moment for branded serviced living in Malaysia.

A Name That Commands Attention

STARK Autograph, designed as a sophisticated urban ecosystem where hospitality, lifestyle, and wellness move in harmony, every element is intentionally orchestrated to support a 24/7 lifestyle centered on modern living. Set on a sprawling 3.78-acre freehold site, the development comprises three towers – two branded serviced suite towers and one professionally operated hotel tower managed by the globally recognised Somerset by Ascott. With a total of 765 residential units across Tower A1 (43 storeys, 379 units) and Tower A2 (33A storeys, 386 units), and built-up sizes ranging from 480 to 800 sq ft, the development caters to a wide spectrum of lifestyle preferences and investment strategies.

Where Hotel Luxury Meets Residential Freedom

What truly sets STARK Autograph apart is its unique concept of hotel-grade services seamlessly woven into the comfort of your own home. At Level 7, the exclusive Time Oasis introduces Malaysia’s first hotel-serviced pool venue, purposely designed for pool parties, fashion shows and runway-style events.

Rising high above the city, STARK In The Sky houses the STARK X-Perience Club with hybrid fitness training, nutrition and wellness programmes, sports physiotherapy, and a breathtaking Sky Lounge Bar with a glass sky walk, panoramic views and Michelin-standard dining. Ground floor commercial shop lots at Levels 1 and 2 complete the live-work-play ecosystem with curated retail and dining options.

The Address That Investors Have Been Waiting For

Bayan Lepas is Penang Island’s most dynamic economic corridor, home to the Free Industrial Zone, a thriving expat community and a constant flow of business travellers and frequent flyers. With a professional hotel management team managing the suites, investors benefit from stronger market perception and long-term asset resilience.
Nearby amenities including Penang LRT, Mitsui Outlet Park and reputable schools further anchor the development’s everyday appeal.

Secure Your Signature Before the Crowd Does

Targeted for official launch in 2026, STARK Autograph is now open for registration, and early birds will enjoy the best unit selection advantage. This is your opportunity to own a piece of Malaysia’s most talked-about branded address.

Register your interest now. Call +6012 368 8999 today.

An artist’s impression of the Penang Hill Cable Car Development.

The Penang Hill Cable Car project is expected to be completed by June next year, followed by two to three months of safety testing before operations officially begin, according to Penang Hill Corporation general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng.

According to a report by Kwong Wah Yit Poh, Cheok said the new aerial cable car system is expected to help reduce congestion at the existing Penang Hill funicular railway station, particularly during peak holiday periods.

“The cable car will not only help disperse crowds from the funicular station, but also provide visitors with a completely different experience,” he said.

The 2.73-kilometre cable car system, which began construction in October 2024 near the Penang Botanic Gardens, is a public-private partnership between Penang Hill Corporation, Hartasuma Sdn Bhd and Austrian ropeway specialist Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH. The system will feature 50 eight-seater gondolas capable of transporting passengers from the Botanic Gardens to the hilltop in under 10 minutes.

The project includes three stations, namely Garden Station, Turn Station and Hilltop Station along with a commercial plaza, 700 parking bays and dedicated bus parking facilities. All major infrastructure is designed to meet Green Building Index (GBI) Gold certification standards.

Cheok noted that while the new cable car may initially affect ridership on the century-old funicular railway, both attractions offer distinct experiences. The existing railway, he said, remains an iconic attraction due to its heritage value.

Meanwhile, the Penang Hill funicular railway is also expected to undergo a major track replacement exercise next year, involving significant costs and technical complexity due to the railway’s steep hillside alignment.

To maintain service quality, Cheok said gradual fare adjustments may be introduced over the coming years, although increases would be implemented carefully and progressively.

Currently, Malaysian citizens pay RM16 for adult tickets and RM8 for children and senior citizens, while foreign visitors pay RM30 for adults and RM15 for children.

With the upcoming school holidays and long weekends, Penang Hill is expecting daily visitor numbers to reach around 8,000, with more than 20,000 visitors projected over a three-day holiday period. Visitors are encouraged to avoid peak hours by arriving before 9am or after 4pm to reduce waiting times.

Following the unveiling of its new Sales Gallery earlier this year, Jesselton Courtyard at Jesselton Selatan is pleased to announce the opening of two newly completed showrooms — the Courtyard Villas Type B and Type C residences, now available for curated private viewing by appointment.

Thoughtfully curated to reflect distinct lifestyle aspirations, both show units present different interior design expressions, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into refined low-density living in the heart of George Town. From elegant contemporary comforts to sophisticated resort-inspired spaces, each showroom has been carefully designed to suit varying preferences of modern luxury homeowners.

The Type B residence represents the largest layout within the Courtyard Villas collection. Designed as a full double-storey home with built-ups from 3,348 sqft, the residence features 6 bedrooms, 4-doorfront parking convenience, and an expansive private courtyard — a distinctive extension of the living space that offers homeowners a rare sense of openness and personal retreat within an urban setting. Well-suited for multi-generational living and discerning homeowners who value spatial generosity, Type B presents a landed-style experience seldom found in the city.

Meanwhile, the newly unveiled Type C residence, with built-ups from 2,734 sqft, offers a more intimate yet equally wellconsidered layout featuring 4 ensuite bedrooms and 4-doorfront parking convenience. Designed with practicality and comfort in mind, Type C appeals to modern families and professionals seeking a refined low-density lifestyle within a connected George Town address.

Developed by Berjaya Land Development Sdn. Bhd. (a subsidiary of Berjaya Property Berhad), Jesselton Courtyard introduces an elevated interpretation of landed-style condominium living, combining exclusivity, space, and convenience within a freehold gated and guarded enclave. Set within a low-density, low-rise environment amidst the prestigious Jesselton and Pulau Tikus neighbourhood, Jesselton Courtyard offers a quieter residential experience while remaining closely connected to the city’s established conveniences and lifestyle destinations.

You’re Invited to Experience Elevated Landed-Living at Jesselton Courtyard at Jesselton Selatan

Visitors are invited to the opening weekend of the newly unveiled Type C Showroom to discover a unique low-rise luxury living experience in the heart of George Town.

Date: 30 & 31 May 2026 (Sat & Sun)
Time: 10AM – 6PM
Venue: Jesselton Courtyard
https://waze.com/ul/hw0zqf63hc

• Starbucks up to 50%off* Selected Merchandise
• Exciting Test-Drives with Lexus
• Hickory on Pg Hill Special Package
• Workshops and Crafts

You are encouraged to bring a friend along. RSVP today!

Following the launch weekend, the showrooms will continue to welcome visitors daily from 10am to 6pm via curated private viewing sessions. For enquiries or appointment arrangements, please contact 04-658 2828 or visit: www.jesseltoncourtyard.com.

Jesselton Courtyard Showroom
No. 2, Persiaran Jesselton Selatan,
10450, George Town, Penang
Phone: +604 658 2828

After years of anticipation by residents in South Seberang Perai, the long-awaited “Missing Lane” connecting Bandar Tasek Mutiara and Hijauan Hills has finally been completed and officially opened to traffic this Saturday.

The newly completed 380-ft road features a dual-carriageway four-lane design aimed at improving connectivity and easing congestion in the surrounding areas. The project also includes various safety and public facilities such as height restriction gantries, warning lights, speed bumps, street lighting, and road signage.

State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman, Zairil Khir Johari, said the project had faced numerous challenges throughout its implementation, including legal disputes, and had even been repeatedly raised during State Legislative Assembly sittings.

Despite the obstacles, he said continuous efforts from all parties ensured the project was eventually realised for the benefit of the people.

“With the opening of this road, residents, students, and parents travelling between the two areas will enjoy better accessibility, while traffic congestion in the area is also expected to improve,” he said during the official opening ceremony on Tuesday.

Also present at the event were state executive councillors Goh Choon Aik and Jason H’ng Mooi Lye.

In addition to the RM5 million road project, authorities have also installed new traffic lights at the Hijauan Hills junction, which will begin operating simultaneously with the road opening to enhance safety along the route.

The intersection upgrading works included widening Jalan Valdor, adding new street lights, and constructing speed bumps, bringing the total cost of the enhancement works to approximately RM3.5 million.

Zairil expressed hope that both projects would improve road safety, enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion in nearby areas, and strengthen the overall road network in South Seberang Perai.

He added that the road connection would significantly improve connectivity between Bandar Tasek Mutiara, Hijauan Hills, and Jalan Valdor, making daily travel more convenient for residents.

The new road also improves accessibility to six nearby schools, an issue frequently highlighted in the State Assembly due to the large residential population and schools located on both sides of the road.

For safety reasons, a 2.8-metre height restriction gantry has been installed to prevent heavy vehicles from using the road. However, keys to the barrier have been provided to the Fire and Rescue Department and volunteer fire brigade to ensure emergency vehicles can pass through when necessary.