The Edge's Penang magazine comes complimentary with every copy of the June 30 issue
Vibrant, colourful, diverse and a mecca for all manner of delicious food, there is no denying that Penang has all you need for a memorable stay. Vacationers can choose from golden sand beaches or a cool hill station holiday while globetrotting gourmets may savour the best of local fare or Michelin-starred haute cuisine.
Even if you happen to be in town for a quick business trip, there are chances aplenty to scarf down a plate of the best hawker nosh there is to be had.
Tourism figures last year, particularly, showed robust growth, with a 13.3% increase in hotel occupancy from 2023. The Penang International Airport recorded brisk traffic and a surge in foreign arrivals, and the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal welcomed passengers from more than 150 international cruise ships.
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The third edition of the Michelin Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang continues to tip its hat to Au Jardin and Auntie Gaik Lean’s, both of whom still set the tone for fine dining on the island, while Penang street food is acknowledged with equal enthusiasm. Foodies would have also noted that the famous BM Yam Rice has been promoted from the Michelin Selected category to the Bib Gourmand list, joining the ranks of Laksalicious, Lum Lai Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng, Ravi’s Famous Apom Manis, Serabai Istimewa, Super Star Koay Teow Soup and Winn’s Café. The 2025 Michelin Guide Young Chef Award honours local boy Waymann Cheong of new Michelin Selected Lucky Hole.
Our lifestyle guide also covers all the latest hotels you can check into, such as The Millen (its name a play on its location on Penang’s historic Millionaire’s Row), famed hotelier Chris Ong’s just-opened Argus Residence and, for those who need sun, sea and sand, the M Social Resort in Tanjung Bungah.
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The cognoscenti, however, are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of a spectacular boutique hotel by the celebrated Penang-born, Singapore-based architect, Chan Soo Khian. Located in the compound of Khoo Kongsi and the perimeter of Unesco World Heritage Site of George Town, Soori Heritage is expected to open before year end with 15 suites as part of its first phase.
At press time, word is also out that the proposed redevelopment of the Malayan Railway Building and George Town Dispensary is set to go ahead. Expect a 94-key standalone five-star hotel and mixed-use lifestyle and F&B block to be ready by 2028. Add to that this year’s Malaysia Day celebrations in Penang, and there’s no end of good things to look forward to.
The 'Penang' magazine is complimentary with every copy of The Edge Malaysia (June 30 issue), available at your nearest newsstands now.
