Marriott International, Inc. today announced it has signed an agreement with Rackson Hospitality Sdn. Bhd to bring the Paris-born Le Méridien brand to Penang, the ‘Pearl of The Orient. As part of the Penang Gateway development, the 200-room Le Méridien Penang Airport will be strategically located by the Penang International Airport and will be part of a mixed-use development that will also comprise an independent residential tower, medical centre, commercial, and retail space. The hotel construction is due to commence by mid-2022 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Known for its famous soft sandy beaches, art, architecture and fondly regarded as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang is a melting pot of cultures and holds the status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Located on the main Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah road, the Le Méridien Penang Airport will feature a sky bridge connecting guests directly to the adjacent shopping mall. The new hotel will also offer guests convenient access to Bayan Lepas industrial areas and Georgetown, which are just a 15 and 25 minutes drive away.

Designed by SA Architects Malaysia, Le Méridien Penang Airport’s distinct timeless chic Mid-Century design is inspired by the brand’s roots in the glamorous halcyon days of travel, something that permeates throughout the Le Méridien experience. The property is slated to feature the brand’s signature Le Méridien Hub, a modern reinterpretation of the traditional hotel lobby for guests to gather, socialize and simply savour the moment. The hotel is anticipated to offer 186 thoughtfully designed guestrooms and 14 suites, including a 2000sqft Presidential Suite. An eclectic mix of dining options can also be expected, including an all-day dining restaurant offering a blend of modern European and Asian buffets, a speciality restaurant, a café with fresh bakes and the brand’s signature Latitude Bar. Plans also call for a Club Lounge, fitness facilities, a pool area with a sundeck and 7000sqft of comfortable meeting and event spaces.