A Malaysian tuna fishing and trading company, Alpha Ocean Resources Berhad (AORB), is set to revitalize the Swettenham Pier area in Penang with an ambitious agro-tourism initiative named “Cove by the Pier.” This project aims to transform the existing warehouses into a dynamic tuna landing port and multifaceted tourism hub.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer Sylvester Pua of AORB recently presented the preliminary design proposal to Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. The project envisions six distinct zones: a tuna landing zone, Maritime Legacy, Heritage Luxe, Culinary Bay, Urban Retreat, and Market Wharf. Additionally, Pua proposed the creation of a bazaar-style commerce strip to enhance local entrepreneurship and enrich the experience for cruise passengers.

The initiative not only aims to boost the initial impressions of visitors disembarking at the pier but also seeks to honor and integrate the heritage aspects of the area. During the briefing, AORB project manager Nosly Wazid Kasmani introduced a complementary proposal for a super-frozen (-60°C) tuna and seafood export project, adhering to the standards of the Organisation For the Promotion of Responsible Tuna Fisheries (OPRT).

Chief Minister Chow expressed appreciation for the comprehensive briefing, highlighting the importance of collaboration with the Penang Port Commission (PPC) and other relevant bodies under the Transport Ministry, which oversee the administration and development of Penang Port.

Chow acknowledged that while this was not the first briefing on the warehouse transformation, he remains hopeful that AORB’s proposals will receive due consideration from the ministry and associated entities. The project has garnered attention from key stakeholders and international business partners, including representatives from Taiwan and Japan.

With its innovative approach, the Cove by the Pier project promises to enhance Penang’s agro-tourism landscape, fostering economic growth and cultural preservation simultaneously.