PENANG Hill which is acclaimed as one of the state's top tourism attractions, would be given another facelift when its food court (Astaka) at the peak undergoes a major upgrade.
It marks a step towards transforming the state highest peak at the 833m above sea level into a modern gastronomic focal point, banking on the state's reputation as a leading street food hub.
According to Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng, the redevelopment and upgrading of the Astaka, is structured into three phases.
“Phase One involved the construction of a temporary Astaka, which was already completed and has been in operation since Feb 25 this year. This has set the stage for a comprehensive transformation of the site. The second phase, currently underway, involves demolishing the existing structures to pave the way for the next stage.
“Following this, the tender for the main building’s construction (Phase Three) is expected to be released by the end of March, inviting qualified contractors to bid."
The primary goal of this redevelopment is to enhance visitor experiences while supporting the traders and preserving the charm of Penang Hill,” he said at the groundbreaking ceremony for Phase Two.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow officiated the groundbreaking ceremony, where he was joined by his predecessor Lim Guan Eng, who is the Air Putih assemblyman and state executive councillors Wong Hon Wai, Jason H'ng Mooi Lye, Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang as well as Penang Island City Council (MBPP) Lord Mayor Datuk Anthony Rajendran.
Once the tender process is finalised, construction to upgrade the Astaka building is scheduled to commence in June, marking a significant step in the project’s timeline, with the full completion scheduled for next year.
During this process, PHC has ensured business continuity by relocating vendors to the temporary Astaka near the Penang Hill Food Alley at Dataran Bukit Bendera.
Chow later emphasised that the RM20 million redevelopment, fully funded by the state government, is set to elevate the Astaka into a world - class dining destination.
“This transformation will introduce refined dining spaces, upgraded facilities, and a refreshed aesthetic, catering to both local and international visitors. With visitor numbers rising, the existing Astaka, which has served the community for over a decade, can no longer meet growing demand.
“Thus, this upgrade will ensure greater comfort, sustainability, and a dining experience that aligns with modern expectations,” he said. - March 23, 2025
