KUALA LUMPUR: Westfield Global Sdn Bhd has entered into a hotel management agreement with Marriott International, marking a significant collaboration to introduce The Westin brand to Penang.
Situated along the picturesque Gurney Drive promenade, The Westin Hotel, Penang, is scheduled to open its doors in 2026 as an integral part of the larger Westin Hotel & Residences development.
Datuk Yeoh Yih Sean, the group managing director of Westfield Global, expressed excitement about this venture, emphasising its potential to elevate Penang's tourism sector.
He highlighted the shared commitment between the two entities to deliver a world-class wellness hospitality experience, enhancing Penang's reputation as a premier global travel destination.
The resurgence of Penang's tourism sector has been impressive, surpassing expectations with a 64.5 per cent surge in passenger traffic at its international airport.
From 4.2 million in 2022, the number of arrivals soared to 6.9 million last year, indicating a significant rise in air travel demand for both international and domestic flights.
Presently, Penang boasts direct international flights from 13 cities, including Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong, Medan, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City, and Doha.
Andree Susilo, senior director, development, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International, said the hotel group is delighted to bring the Westin brand to Penang and be a part of the island's offering for both leisure and business travellers.
"As a destination, it continues to excite with its unique appeal. We are confident that The Westin Hotel, Penang, will exceed expectations in offering both leisure and business travellers a thoroughly fresh, yet familiar and certainly enjoyable stay in Penang," he said.
With 217 rooms and suites featuring the brand's iconic Heavenly® Bed, the hotel will offer guests views of the Andaman Sea beyond.
The hotel is anticipated to be Marriott International's fourth Westin in Malaysia, in addition to The Westin Kuala Lumpur, The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, and The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa.