PENANG: The Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City marked its grand opening today with a jubilant celebration, signifying a major milestone in the Straits City Future City (海峡综合城) waterfront flagship development. This transformative 40-acre project is set to revitalize Butterworth into a dynamic and inclusive future city.
A Vision for Transformation
Ms. Chew Gek Khim, Executive Chairman of Straits Trading, emphasized the significance of this launch, stating:
“Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City represents the transformation of our legacy assets and land bank in Butterworth. This is just the beginning of a transformative journey for Straits City. More than just infrastructure, Straits City is about creating a thriving urban ecosystem where businesses, communities, and innovation converge—contributing to Butterworth’s long-term growth and vibrancy as a place to work, live, and play.”
Straits City is a collaboration between Singapore Exchange (“SGX”)-listed The Straits Trading Company Limited (“Straits Trading”) (海峡贸易) and Bursa Malaysia-listed Malaysia Smelting Corporation Berhad (“MSC”).
Straits City: An Interactive, Intelligent, and Integrated Urban Hub
Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City and Straits Galleria mark the first phase of the 40-acre development, which is set for completion by 2038. The master plan envisions Butterworth as a key future city in the Northern Region, seamlessly connecting Penang’s mainland and island.
Reflecting on this broader vision, Ms. Chew stated:
“Straits City is designed to create a balanced and sustainable community, meeting the needs of today while also fulfilling the aspirations of future generations. Our goal is to cultivate a thriving urban environment that enriches Butterworth’s economic and social fabric.”
The development integrates retail, commercial, and residential components under the “Work, Live, Play” concept, fostering a seamless blend of work, leisure, and modern living.
Sustainability is at the core of Straits City’s vision, featuring eco-conscious infrastructure and smart technologies, such as intelligence-driven security systems and Internet-of-Things solutions to enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, pedestrian-friendly walkways and cycling pathways will be introduced where feasible to promote an active and sustainable lifestyle.
Straits City is also aligned with local initiatives, collaborating with agencies to empower communities and support projects like the ‘Levelling Up Seberang Perai’ program under the Penang State Government’s Penang 2030 plan.
Strategic Growth and Economic Impact
Strategically located just 2 km from the Northern region’s transportation hubs, Straits City offers excellent accessibility. The development is well-supported by existing and upcoming infrastructure, including highways, rail, and additional transport routes that enhance connectivity within the region.
Butterworth’s rapid industrialization and projected population growth to 1.2 million by 2030—comprising 55% of Penang’s total population—make Straits City a crucial driver of the region’s evolving urban landscape. Additionally, Penang remains Malaysia’s top contributor to manufacturing Foreign Direct Investment (“FDI”), reinforcing its status as an economic powerhouse. With its close proximity to key industrial zones such as the Perai Free Industrial Zone, the development is primed to meet the rising demand for housing, services, and high-quality hospitality.
Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City: A New Landmark in Hospitality
As the first Crowne Plaza in Penang, the 23-storey hotel features 343 well-appointed rooms and suites designed to cater to the growing demand for luxury accommodations on the mainland. Equipped with motion-sensor lighting and offering stunning views of Penang Island, the hotel also underscores sustainability through organic bath amenities.
The hotel provides versatile spaces for business and leisure, including:
- Straits Ballroom, accommodating up to 800 guests
- Smaller meeting rooms, ideal for intimate gatherings
- Straits Galleria, a multi-level retail podium with a curated selection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues
Grand Opening Highlights
The grand opening ceremony welcomed distinguished guests, including representatives from Straits Trading, MSC, IHG Hotels & Resorts (“IHG”), government officials, industry leaders, business associates, and the media.
The celebration featured a traditional lion dance symbolizing prosperity, followed by an immersive video presentation showcasing the envisioned development of Straits City. Key speakers at the event included:
- Ms. Tan Hwei Yee, Chief Executive Officer of STC Property Management Sdn. Bhd.
- Shi’ai Liang, Senior Director, Development of IHG
- Ms. Chew Gek Khim, Executive Chairman of Straits Trading, who delivered the keynote address emphasizing Straits City’s long-term vision and the collaborative efforts that made this milestone possible
The official opening was graced by Mr. Abdul Hadi Che Man, Director of Tourism Malaysia Northern Region, and YB Chee Yeeh Keen, Bagan Jermal State Assemblyman.
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed an exclusive guided tour of the hotel’s eco-friendly features and innovative designs. The event also included a visit to the Straits City Concept Centre (“SCCC”), a 10,000-square-foot gallery offering a comprehensive and interactive overview of the broader development. The day concluded with a networking luncheon at the hotel’s 1887 All Day Dining Restaurant.
A Promising Future for Straits City
With the launch of Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City, Butterworth is poised for a remarkable transformation. As Straits City evolves, it will play a crucial role in shaping the region’s future, fostering a vibrant urban ecosystem that aligns with economic growth, sustainability, and modern living.
