Marriott International Inc. has announced a significant new development in collaboration with Ideal Property Group to bring the Penang Marriott Hotel Queens Waterfront and Marriott Residences Queens Waterfront to Penang island. Scheduled to open in 2029, the project will feature a 262-room hotel and 228-unit residential complex, strategically located in Bayan Lepas.

The official signing ceremony, held at the Penang Marriott Hotel on Gurney Drive, was attended by key representatives from both organizations. Marriott International was represented by its senior director of hotel development, Andree Susilo, while Ideal Property Group was represented by its executive chairman, Tan Sri Datuk Alex Ooi Kee Liang. The event was also graced by the presence of Penang’s Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow.

Marriott International, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, boasts a vast portfolio of nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. Ideal Property Group, based in Penang, is a premier real estate developer with over 25 years of industry experience and a track record of completing more than 30,000 residential and commercial units.

Susilo highlighted the strategic importance of the new development, which marks the company’s second Marriott Hotel and Marriott Residence on the island. He noted that the location, in close proximity to the Bayan Lepas Industrial Zone, positions the development at the heart of a bustling industrial and commercial hub with views of the Penang Bridge.

“This prime location offers convenient access for guests traveling by road to the island from the mainland, and it is only a 15-minute drive from Penang International Airport,” Susilo said. He also expressed excitement about expanding Marriott’s portfolio in Penang, a vibrant leisure destination and thriving economic zone in Malaysia. “This signing further underscores our commitment to the future of hospitality in Penang and is a testament to the confidence our owners have in our brand.”

Ooi shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the shared vision and mutual dedication to providing exceptional hospitality experiences. “We are very excited to announce our agreement with Marriott International, which cements our contribution to Penang’s appeal as a commercial and leisure destination with an array of world-class hospitality offerings. Known globally for setting the gold standard in hospitality, Marriott International brings its expertise and commitment to excellence to this partnership,” Ooi stated.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow hailed the signing ceremony as a significant milestone in Penang’s journey toward becoming a premier destination for hospitality and residential excellence. He highlighted the synergy between Marriott International’s reputation for excellence and Ideal Property Group’s extensive experience, which promises to set new standards in hospitality and residential living in Penang.

“The synergy between these two esteemed organizations is poised to deliver an unparalleled experience for all who visit or reside here. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Marriott International and Ideal Property Group for this remarkable collaboration. Your partnership signifies a strong vote of confidence in Penang’s future and showcases your commitment to our island’s growth and prosperity,” Chow said.

Chow further noted that the project is expected to enhance existing infrastructures and developments in the vicinity, including the SPICE Convention Centre, Penang International Airport, Bayan Lepas Industrial Park, and the upcoming Penang IC Design and Digital Park. He emphasized that the development represents a significant investment in the state and aligns with the vision for holistic and inclusive growth, creating high-impact jobs for local employment.

During  the press conference, Chow also expressed his full support for the new guidelines for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program introduced by the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry. He highlighted that Penang, already a preferred destination for MM2H applicants, fully supports these new guidelines.