THE world’s largest hospitality company, Marriott International, Inc., has announced the signing of The Bertam, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio hotel, in partnership with Maritime Waterfront Suites Sdn Bhd.
Slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2026, the hotel will feature 282 keys, marking the brand’s debut in Bertam on Penang’s mainland and complementing Marriott’s established presence on the island.
Located in Bertam within North Seberang Perai, approximately 25km from Butterworth and 40km from George Town, the area is part of a rapidly developing corridor driven by industrial expansion and integrated lifestyle developments.
Bertam also benefits from strong connectivity via the North-South Expressway and its proximity to key economic hubs such as Kulim Hi-Tech Park and Batu Kawan Industrial Park, positioning it within a well-established infrastructure and economic network.
The Bertam, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio hotel, will be a conversion of the existing five-star Bertam Resort, which opened in March 2023 and comprises 282 rooms.
Set within the 20-acre integrated Bertam Resort & Water Park Penang development, the property is strategically located near key demand drivers, including industrial hubs in Butterworth and Kedah, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities, positioning it as a multi-segment destination catering to both business and leisure travellers.
The signing ceremony was held at Bertam Resort in Kepala Batas today and attended by Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Malaysia External Trade Development Corp (Matrade) chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, who is also the Bertam assemblyman, Maritime Waterfront Suites Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Mohamed Iqbal S. Habeeb Noohu and Marriott International vice-president of Hotel Development, Asia Pacific, Andree Susilo.
In his speech, Andree said Marriott International is pleased to collaborate with Maritime Waterfront Suites on the project.
“This reflects our shared vision to bring distinctive hospitality experiences to emerging destinations.
“The Bertam, Penang, a tribute portfolio hotel represents a meaningful addition to our portfolio in Malaysia, allowing us to cater to the evolving needs of both leisure and corporate travellers, while supporting our continued growth across high-potential markets in the region,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Iqbal expressed confidence in the partnership, noting that the transformation of Bertam Resort marks a strategic evolution for the property.
“By leveraging Marriott’s global distribution platform while preserving the hotel’s unique character, we believe this will create new opportunities, enhance the destination’s appeal, and position Bertam as a compelling hub for both business and leisure travellers,” he said.
Reezal Merican reflected on Bertam’s transformation over the decades.
“About 35 years ago, this area was largely covered with rubber and palm plantations. The transformation journey, carefully planned and orchestrated by the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, turned this constituency into a thriving township where people aspire to live.
“With the transformation of Bertam Resort into a tribute portfolio hotel, it will certainly place Bertam on the global map,” he added.
Wong described the signing as a significant milestone for Bertam and mainland Penang’s tourism development.
“This collaboration is not merely a business arrangement but reflects strong confidence in Penang’s evolving tourism landscape and its long-term potential.
“It also aligns with the state government’s vision to strengthen tourism infrastructure across both the island and mainland, in line with our broader tourism masterplan and economic growth agenda,” he said.
He also commended Mohamed Iqbal for his vision and investment in repositioning the resort.
“This is a substantial undertaking involving millions of ringgit to elevate the development into a destination of international standards,” Wong said.
He added that the introduction of Marriott’s tribute portfolio brand is particularly meaningful.
“It brings a distinct identity that celebrates character, storytelling, and unique guest experiences.
“This also marks the first-ever entry of Marriott International into Seberang Perai. A historic milestone that opens a new chapter for the mainland’s hospitality and tourism industry.
“With Marriott’s global network and brand strength, the development will gain access to a worldwide audience while upholding international standards of excellence.
“This combination of uniqueness and global reach will undoubtedly place Bertam firmly on the map for both domestic and international travellers seeking something beyond the conventional,” he added.
Story by Riadz Akmal