The Waterfront Shoppes in Penang
Those who grew up in Penang will understand how much we rely on just a handful of neighbourhood shopping malls on the island to fulfil our retail needs and convenient dining desires. But real soon, we’ll have another spot to frequent beyond the familiar Gurney Plaza, Gurney Paragon, Queensbay Mall, and Straits Quay.
Planned to make its grand debut in September 2026, The Waterfront Shoppes is a coastal shopping landmark where shoppers can enjoy a diverse slew of retail outlets, flagship stores, and eateries.
Here’s what we know about the development of the massive seafront shopping destination in Penang so far.
What is The Waterfront Shoppes?
Image credit: The Light City via website
The Light Waterfront in Penang is about to have an exciting new – and gigantic – addition, come September of next year.
Described as Phase 2 of the elaborate The Light ecosystem masterplan, the seafront project announced the debut of The Waterfront Shoppes, a whopping 1.5 million sqft shopping mall perched on Penang’s horizon, with an opening tentatively set for September 2026. It was previously slated to open in April 2025.
What to expect at The Waterfront Shoppes
Image credit: Perennial Holdings Private Limited via website
Stretching along a stunning 750-metre coastal promenade, the retail hub is designed as a lifestyle landmark with over 300 retail outlets throughout four levels – think curated fashion boutiques, artisanal cafes, flagship concept stores, and a waterfront promenade, all set against the backdrop of the scenic sea.
One of the mall’s standout attractions is the Rodeo Drive Strip, an outdoor retail boulevard inspired by Beverly Hills’ famous shopping street, as well as a 45,000sqft cinema complex, providing moviegoers with a state-of-the-art entertainment destination.
There will also be a 30,000sqft open-concept heritage food hall, dedicated to authentic Penang street food and local culinary favourites. Complementing this is an expansive selection of alfresco waterfront restaurants, allowing diners to enjoy delicious meals alongside the refreshing sea breeze and picturesque waterfront views.
Image credit: IJM Land via website
Adding to the seafront project as well is the soon-to-open Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), a sprawling 76,000 square feet exhibition hall that will function to host everything from international conventions and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) events, to grand banquets and high-profile launches. This sleek new venue is scheduled to open in October of this year.
The construction of The Waterfront Shoppes and PWCC is part of IJM Land’s ambitious plan to create an integrated waterfront enclave called The Light Waterfront Penang, where residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, and leisure spaces are brought together into a single, thoughtfully designed neighbourhood.
Look forward to coastal shopping in Penang at The Waterfront Shoppes
You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for another new shopping mall that’s beyond our usual haunts in Penang, especially when it’s as grand as The Waterfront Shoppes. Looking ahead, accessibility of this destination will be further enhanced through the future integration with the Penang Mutiara LRT Line, making The Waterfront Shoppes even more convenient for visitors to reach.
Also read: New & Upcoming Hotels In 2026 In Penang For Your Next Stylish Island Stay
Cover image adapted from: The Light City via website
This article was first published on 19th August 2025, and updated on 14th July 2026.