A historic en bloc property sale is unfolding in Penang, with over 100 prime pre-war homes and shophouses—many located in the upscale suburb of Pulau Tikus—now available for purchase. Locked in trust deeds for decades, these heritage assets are being released in what could be the largest collective subsale of mature properties in Malaysia, with a potential total value of RM300 million, according to a report by The Star.

Among the most significant offerings is the entire stretch of Bangkok Lane, comprising 39 two-storey terraced houses and two detached homes, built in 1928 by Penang tycoon Cheah Leong Keah for his extended family. These properties, renowned for their Straits-Eclectic architecture and original woodwork, are remarkably well preserved.

“These units are being sold by tender with no reserve prices,” said Tan Chean Hwa, Penang director of CBRE WTW Sdn Bhd, the exclusive marketing agent. “Bidders are free to submit offers for individual or grouped properties, based on title deeds and lot numbers. Flexibility is key.”

The tender closes on May 9, and interest has already been received from local, interstate, and international buyers. However, potential developers are advised to take into account heritage preservation regulations, urban planning restrictions, plot ratios, and infrastructure requirements. For example, while the façades of the Bangkok Lane homes must be preserved, the rear portions may be modified within planning limits.

Beyond Bangkok Lane, other valuable parcels include a 2.32-acre plot at the junction of Kelawei Road and Leandros Lane, just across from Gurney Paragon—a rare opportunity for redevelopment. Also listed are 11 shophouses and a pre-war structure at the corner of Burma Road and Solok Moulmein, and 10 double-storey pre-war shophouses opposite SRJK(C) Union, near Komtar. Behind them, two rows of 34 pre-war homes line Phuah Hin Leong Road.

Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo expressed optimism about the suburb’s future, welcoming new investment while urging adherence to Penang’s strict urban planning and flood mitigation policies.

“This is Penang’s most affluent district within George Town’s CBD corridor, adjacent to Gurney Drive. We look forward to tasteful regeneration that respects the city’s heritage and infrastructure,” he said.

This unprecedented sale marks a pivotal moment for heritage property investment in Penang.

Source: The Star

Penang’s beloved ferry, Pulau Pinang, is set to reopen as a floating museum after extensive restoration efforts. Now docked at Tanjung City Marina, the refurbished vessel can accommodate up to 150 visitors and offers a nostalgic journey into the island’s maritime history.

Curator Siti Faridah Hani Damsi said the museum is nearly complete, with final touches underway on interactive exhibits, photo galleries, and interiors restored to reflect the ferry’s original design.

“We’re excited to open this unique space that preserves the legacy of Penang’s iconic ferry service,” she said. “Visitors will even get to explore the engine room, a rare opportunity to witness the inner workings of this historic vessel.”

To promote the launch, a roadshow will be held at Queensbay Mall from May 1 to 4, where entrance tickets will be available for purchase.

The Pulau Pinang ferry was decommissioned and towed from Bagan Dalam slipway to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in October last year before settling at its new home.

The restoration was undertaken by Printhero Merchandise (M) Sdn Bhd, known for managing souvenir shops at several national heritage sites, including Penang Hill and Muzium Negara.

The floating museum promises to be a new cultural landmark celebrating Penang’s rich transportation heritage.

The 5.5km Lebuhraya Bandar Cassia in Batu Kawan will now be known as Jalan Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, in honour of Malaysia’s fifth prime minister who passed away on April 14 at the age of 85.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the renaming on April 16, describing it as a tribute to Tun Abdullah’s significant contributions to the state during his leadership from 2003 to 2009.

Among his most impactful legacies was the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge, commonly known as the Second Penang Bridge. Announced during the tabling of the Ninth Malaysia Plan in 2003, the bridge became a catalyst for economic growth between Batu Maung on the island and the rapidly developing industrial hub of Bandar Cassia in Batu Kawan.

Tun Abdullah also played a direct role in shaping the area, having officially named Bandar Cassia on August 24, 2004. The name was later endorsed by the state in 2016.

Chow further highlighted other major initiatives under Tun Abdullah’s tenure that benefited Penang, including the RM1 billion expansion of the Penang International Airport, the RM2.7 billion Penang Sentral transport hub, the Butterworth Outer Ring Road, and the creation of the Northern Corridor Economic Region.

“In honour of his enduring legacy, the state government has decided to rename the Bandar Cassia Highway as Jalan Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi,” Chow stated.

To mark his passing, Penang’s state flag will be flown at half-mast across all government agencies and local councils on April 18, with private premises encouraged to follow suit.

A son of Penang, Tun Abdullah—fondly remembered as Pak Lah—was born in Bayan Lepas. His contributions to the state and nation will be remembered for generations to come.

Nestled in the tranquil heart of Tasek Gelugor, D’Aleena is more than just a place to live — it’s where peace, nature, and community come together to create a lifestyle you’ll cherish for generations.

Following the overwhelming success of its earlier commercial releases—with Double-Storey Shop Offices completely sold out—D’Aleena now introduces an exciting new collection of over 1,000 Single-Storey Terrace Homes, complemented by 94 Single-Storey Shop Offices. As part of a grand vision for modern family living, this thriving township is set to feature approximately 4,000 landed homes, solidifying its place as a premier destination in Tasek Gelugor.

A Lifestyle Inspired by Nature & Community

Life at D’Aleena flows to its own calm rhythm. Surrounded by lush tropical greenery and scenic landscapes, the development includes thoughtfully curated public spaces like a mangrove recreational park, foot reflexology paths, bicycle tracks, and a multipurpose hall — perfect for community bonding and family fun.

Here, neighbours become friends. Families gather for weekend picnics. Children explore the great outdoors safely. Whether it’s a morning jog or an evening stroll, the environment at D’Aleena invites you to slow down, reconnect, and embrace the beauty around you.

Connectivity Meets Convenience

Strategically located in North Seberang Perai, D’Aleena enjoys excellent connectivity via the North-South Expressway, placing nearby towns and essential amenities within easy reach. At the same time, nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Bukit Katak and the Air Hitam Dalam Educational Forest, making it easy to balance urban access with natural serenity.

Whether you’re starting a family, upgrading your home, or looking to invest in a growing township, D’Aleena offers a holistic living experience unlike any other.

D’Aleena Sales Gallery at Tasek Gelugor is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Contact GSD Land at 1700-818-365 or visit https://www.daleena.com.my

You’re Invited: D’Aleena Hari Raya Open House!

Bring your family, enjoy the festivities, and discover why D’Aleena is the ideal place to call home.

📍Location: D’Aleena Sales Gallery, Tasek Gelugor
📅 Date: 19 April 2025 (Saturday)
🕥 Time: 10:30am – 1:00pm

Highlights of Hari Raya Open House:

• Ice-cream treats
• Aromatic coffee
• Sand art
• Delicious churros

About Lucerne Residences

The final phase of residential development by Ideal Property Group at Ideal Vision Park in Bayan Lepas. It is just a short drive to Penang International Airport, 10 minutes walking distance to Straits International School. The project will see two blocks of 36-storey skyscrapers featuring a European living concept. It offers 480 residential units with a 5-storey parking podium.

Find out more about Lucerne Residences