Penang is set to welcome its latest lifestyle destination, The Bayana, an innovative project poised to enhance the ecosystem of the Bayan Lepas Industrial Zone. The Bayana comprises three key elements: Food Bayana, Bayana Parc, and Bayana Hub.

Food Bayana is positioned as Malaysia’s first semi-automated food court, bringing together a curated selection of renowned hawkers under one roof. Pentamaster Corporation Berhad’s Group Executive Chairman, Datuk Chuah Choon Bin, shared that the project aims to provide convenience and quality dining options for those working and living in the industrial zone.

“The initiative began five years ago, before the Covid-19 pandemic,” Chuah explained. “The Penang Development Corporation (PDC) issued a tender to transform three parcels of land into vibrant food and lifestyle destinations.” These parcels have now been transformed into Bayana Hub, Food Bayana, and Bayana Parc.

Food Bayana is a two-storey food court featuring food stalls on the ground floor and dining areas above. A fleet of automated robots will transport food between floors, with customers placing orders at the counter. Once the meals are ready, the robots will deliver the food to designated lockers, notifying customers via their smartphones when their orders are ready for pickup. Chuah expressed his confidence in the success of Food Bayana, driven by his passion for good food and the convenience it offers to the local community.

Chuah also revealed plans to introduce a Sunday market beside Food Bayana, inspired by the popular market at Hin Bus Depot, to attract weekend crowds from across the island.

Bayana Parc, located directly opposite Food Bayana, is designed as a tranquil oasis for relaxation and community connection. Scheduled to open on January 1st next year, this nature-inspired leisure space will offer diners a unique ‘forest-feel’ dining experience. Chuah emphasized the importance of creating a serene environment where people can unwind after work, adding that he is pursuing the Green Building Index (GBI) Gold rating certification for both Food Bayana and Bayana Parc.

The third component, Bayana Hub, is a five-storey complex located just a short distance from Food Bayana and Bayana Parc. Designed to enhance the quality of life for the local community, Bayana Hub will feature a drive-thru restaurant, convenience stores, a café or restaurant, a gym, an indoor rock-climbing facility, and co-working spaces. Chuah expects Bayana Hub to receive its Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) by April next year.

Chuah disclosed that he has invested over RM50 million in The Bayana, viewing it as part of his commitment to corporate social responsibility. He noted that while the return on investment may take decades, he is driven by a passion for creating value and leaving a lasting legacy. Chuah’s dedication to this project is evident in his approach to “emotional engineering,” which focuses on understanding and meeting the needs of customers and tenants.

As Penang’s newest lifestyle hub, The Bayana is set to become a landmark in the Bayan Lepas area, offering a unique blend of dining, leisure, and community experiences that cater to the needs of the local population. With its innovative features and commitment to sustainability, The Bayana is poised to make a significant impact on the region’s development.

*Image source: Facebook