THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang: IJM Land’s Vision for Penang’s Next Iconic Integrated Waterfront City

IJM Land waterfront vision for Penang is finally taking shape in a way that underscores the group’s strength in master-planned, integrated townships. Located on 152 acres of prime reclaimed land along the Tun Dr. Lim Chong Eu Expressway, THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang is being positioned as the island’s most premium, world-class development — one that combines residential, commercial, business, and lifestyle components in a single address.

When asked about the evolution of THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang, IJM Land CEO, Datuk Tony Ling Thou Long takes a measured pause before responding. “THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang began as part of a privatization project in 2007, when IJM was awarded the rights to reclaim this land in return for building the coastal expressway,” he says. “What started as a residential-led initiative has now matured into an integrated ecosystem — a place where people can live, work, and play, supported by modern infrastructure and technology.”

Residences to Integrated Living

Phase 1 of THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang — spanning 42 acres — established IJM Land’s reputation for premium residences in Penang. The Light Linear, The Light Point and The Light Collection series, including luxury water villas with private yacht access, were launched to strong uptake. Alongside these homes, IJM developed The Light Linear Park, a landscaped waterfront public space complete with water features and marine life, underscoring the group’s commitment to open spaces and biodiversity.

Nearly two decades later, property values in Phase 1 have nearly doubled, reflecting not only Penang’s rising appeal but also the Building on that success, IJM Land is now focused on Phase 2 — THE LIGHT City, a 32-acre mixed-use precinct developed in partnership with Singapore-based Perennial Holdings. Anchored by a convention centre, retail mall, offices, hotels and residences, THE LIGHT City is envisioned as the beating heart of the greater waterfront development.

“We learned from Phase 1 that today’s buyers want more than just a home. They want accessibility, lifestyle amenities, and connectivity all in one location,” Datuk Tony notes. “The pandemic only reinforced this. People increasingly value a self-contained environment where retail, healthcare, offices and homes are within walking distance.”

Smart City Ambitions

.THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang also aspires to be Penang’s first 5G-enabled integrated city. IJM has partnered with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to ensure the entire precinct is digitally future-proof. But Datuk Tony is quick to point out that “smart” is not just about technology.

“It’s about creating efficiency and safety in daily living — from traffic management to community security, and even digital convenience for residents and businesses. For us, technology is a backbone, not just a feature. With the integration of business and leisure, it will enhance the livability aspect of things” THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang is designed to be a vibrant hub for both business and leisure.

The upcoming Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), slated to open in October 2025, will be the largest convention destination in Penang, featuring a 76,000 sq ft column-free exhibition hall and a banquet capacity for 5,500 guests. Complementing the PWCC are two international hotels – JdV by Hyatt Hotel and Galaxy Minyoun Hotel – and The Waterfront Shoppes, a 1.5 million sq ft retail paradise.

ESG at the Core

In line with Penang’s Vision 2030,sustainability forms another pillar of the project. IJM Land has incorporated ESG considerations from the start. Phase 1 saw the introduction of renewable energy through wind turbines and solar panels, while future phases are targeting Green Building Index (GBI) certification.

Collaborations with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) have also been initiated to study and preserve marine biodiversity around the reclaimed site. “Sustainability is more than just ticking boxes for compliance. It’s about designing a city that enhances both quality of life and the environment around it,” says Datuk Tony.

Merione and Beyond

The next major launch under Phase 2 is Merione, a mixed-use development that blends retail, offices and residential units. Designed with low density and premium facilities, Merione will be directly connected to the upcoming LRT station — a move Datuk Tony believes will be a game-changer for accessibility. “The concept is to give both residents and office users access to shared premium amenities, creating a vibrant community where work-life balance is truly possible,” he explains.

Beyond Merione, IJM Land plans further mixed-use and residential developments within THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang, gradually transforming the reclaimed stretch into one of Penang’s most iconic destinations.

Premium Address in the Making

Asked how he would describe THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang in one line, Datuk Tony does not hesitate: “It’s Penang’s most premium, world-class waterfront city — a landmark that blends business, lifestyle, and community.” For investors, the message is clear: location, brand, and trust matter.

With IJM Land’s established track record and the strong fundamentals of Penang’s growing economy, THE LIGHT Waterfront Penang is positioned not merely as a property investment, but as a legacy project redefining urban living on the island.