A CHIC and trendy transformation is underway for Penang island’s highest food court, offering a romantic panorama and classic local hawker food atop Penang Hill.
Diners will enjoy the 833m hill’s cool temperatures of usually between 20°C and 27°C in a posh ambience after the Penang government replaces the old zinc-roofed food court with an artful dining atmosphere.
Previously called Penang Hill Astaka or Cliff Cafe, it will be renamed after the makeover.
The state government is investing RM20mil to redevelop the place into a world-class hilltop dining destination, including facilities for babies, seniors and wheelchair access.
Dining capacity will increase from 280 to 530, with a 52% increase in built-up space from 20,316sq ft to 30,989sq ft.
State publisher Buletin Mutiara reported that there would be a rooftop viewing deck and activity area, improved garbage disposal centre and food composter room, a larger washing area for food service workers, storage space for vendors, and enhanced ventilation.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow recently initiated Phase Two of the redevelopment.
With him were state tourism committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, state local government committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, state housing and environment committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Air Putih assemblyman Lim Guan Eng, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang and Penang Island mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.
Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng said the redevelopment was structured into three phases.
“During the redevelopment, PHC first ensured business continuity by relocating vendors to the temporary Penang Hill Food Alley at Dataran Bukit Bendera, which was opened on Feb 25 this year,” he said.
The second phase now entails the demolition of the old structures.
“Following this, the public tender for the main building’s construction (Phase Three) is expected to be released by the end of March, inviting eligible contractors to bid,” said Cheok.
Chow said the old food court had served visitors for well over a decade but could no longer keep up with the demand, especially because of the rising number of visitors.
He said the redevelopment was aligned with other key initiatives on Penang Hill, including the ongoing Penang Hill Cable Car project and the proposed upgrade of the old quarters in Strawberry Valley.
“These efforts, outlined in the Penang Hill Summit Area Concept Master Plan, aim to accommodate the anticipated increase in visitors.
“While modernising the food court, the project remains committed to preserving Penang Hill’s status as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve.
“The redevelopment will maintain the current site’s footprint, prioritising sustainability, efficiency and adherence to Green Building Index (GBI) certification,” Chow added.
