Le Méridien brand lands in Penang

Le Méridien Penang Airport will be completed in 2026 as part of the RM1.5bil Penang Gateway mixed development.

THE Le Méridien brand is coming to Penang, with its first hotel in Bayan Lepas to be called Le Méridien Penang Airport.

The hotel brand owner, Marriott International Inc, has entered into a management agreement with Rackson Group to develop the 200-room hotel.

Construction is set to start in mid-2022 with completion slated in 2026.

Designed by SA Architects Malaysia, the hotel will have a timeless but chic mid-century design inspired by the brand’s roots in the glamorous halcyon days of travel, something that permeates throughout the Le Méridien experience.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who witnessed the contract signing ceremony, said the state was proud to welcome a top-rated airport hotel to the hospitality industry.

“This latest addition is an award-winning international brand which was founded in Paris, France.

“It will add excitement to the already vibrant and dynamic landscape of the state, especially in the southwest district of the island.

“As part of the RM1.5bil Penang Gateway in Bayan Lepas, it will help bring activities and opportunities.

“The hotel will offer an all-inclusive experience and convenience to business travellers and holiday seekers,” said Chow in his opening speech.

Marriott International’s area vice-president for Singapore, Malaysia, and The Maldives, Rivero Delgado, said the company was thrilled to work with Rackson Group to bring the Le Méridien brand to Penang.

“This signing underscores Marriott International’s commitment to further grow its footprint across Malaysia.

“We are confident that Le Méridien Penang Airport will enhance the hospitality landscape on the island and inspire travellers to explore the world in style and enjoy experiences that offer something more than meets the eye,” he said.

Rackson Group chief executive officer Kelvin Lor said they were proud to be associated with such a prestigious brand.

“This means a lot to us and represents a big leap forward for an up-and-coming developer like us.

“The hotel building’s façade will stand out prominently with its interesting design elements.

“It will be almost impossible for the business clientele and holidaymakers to miss this landmark upon touching down at the airport,” he said.

Lor added that the hotel would be part of a mixed-use development known as Penang Gateway, which would also feature a designated office tower, serviced suites, serviced and wellness apartments, medical suites and a wellness centre.

This meticulously crafted development in Bayan Lepas will be completed in two phases and Le Méridien Penang Airport will be part of the first phase development that will also include serviced suites and retail components.

“The integrated development will also be seamlessly connected via a link bridge to Penang International Airport and the forthcoming Light Rail Transit station there.

“Upon completion, this luxury lifestyle development has the potential to become an accessible landmark in the heart of Bayan Lepas that will raise the economic and architectural standards of the island,” he said.

The signing ceremony also saw the official opening of Rackson’s sales gallery in Pulau Tikus. Also present were Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim and Rackson Group chairman Ng Lim Hon.

Known as Rackson House, the gallery is adorned with lush greenery to aptly go with its theme, ‘When the traditional meets the contemporary’.

There is a cafe along with water features and hanging ferns to soften the interior look and bring nature into the building.

The evening also saw the signing of an exclusive appointment agreement between Rackson and Zeon Properties Group, which is now the exclusive marketing partner for the various components of the Penang Gateway development.

Lor said Rackson was proud to have the opportunity to work with Leon Lee, who is the chief executive officer and founder of Zeon Properties Group.

For more details or enquiries on Penang Gateway, drop by Rackson House at 18, Jalan Bagan Jermal.

Alernatively, call Lee at 012-443 8888.