This photo journal features Georgetown’s historic waterfront (Weld Quay) including the New Tanjung City Marina, & Swettenham Pier which is still being redeveloped.

Weld Quay was created in the 1880s & named after Frederick A. Weld who was Governor of the Straits Settlements at the time. The fortunes of the waterfront declined quickly after Penang lost its free port status in 1974, & the seat of government moved from Downing Street to the Komtar tower, changing the orientation of the city.

But, happily, there has been a waterfront revival in recent years with the new Tanjung City Marina Complex including the new Church Street Pier, & the Swettenham Pier redevelopment project which isn’t completed yet. Swettenham Pier will continue to be used as a port for ships & cruise vessels, & the new marina is used for smaller pleasure craft. Both are meant to boost marine tourism on the island.