Pulau aman: Pulau Aman, Pulau Gedong and Pulau Jerejak have been proposed for development as new eco-tourism and recreational destinations in Penang, with a sustainable tourism approach integrating nature, heritage, cuisine and recreational activities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Draft Penang State Structure Plan 2040 (RSNPP 2040) (Review) suggests that the three islands have significant potential to be developed as nature, heritage and recreational tourism destinations, while prioritising environmental protection and the well-being of local communities. Pulau Aman, covering 116.5 hectares and located about 16 nautical miles from the Seberang Perai mainland and eight kilometres from the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah Bridge, is proposed as a 'Heritage Fishing Village'. The concept aims to highlight the island's fishing heritage, including through a small museum showcasing its fishing history and traditional fisheries.
Culinary tourism initiatives include promoting local specialities, such as prawn noodles and Pulau Aman breadfruit, as culinary icons, alongside an annual seafood festival and homestay services. Improvements to accessibility, such as upgrading the passenger jetty and increasing the frequency of boat services, have also been proposed, the report stated. Pulau Aman is a traditional fishing village inhabited by 47 families comprising about 250 people. The island can be reached by sea from Batu Musang Jetty in Batu Kawan, with the boat journey taking about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, the RSNPP 2040 proposes developing Pulau Gedong in South Seberang Perai as a nature conservation island featuring mangrove parks, ecological education facilities and boardwalks for tourism and environmental education. The draft also proposes nature-based activities such as birdwatching, mangrove kayaking and nature photography, involving local residents and tour guides to help stimulate the island's tourism economy.
According to the RSNPP 2040, Pulau Jerejak, located near Bayan Lepas, is proposed as a destination combining heritage tourism with adventure activities. Among the proposed attractions are an island history museum, the former prison site and a colonial history trail aimed at introducing visitors to the island's heritage and past. Plans also include a tropical rainforest-themed eco-resort, as well as nature festivals and outdoor sporting events to attract tourists interested in nature and adventure activities.
Previously, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) granted planning permission for the redevelopment of the Jerejak Rainforest Resort and a mixed-use development project, while the state government approved plans for a new bridge connecting Pulau Jerejak to Penang Island. To enhance the overall appeal of the three islands, the draft proposes establishing an 'Island Tourism Circuit' and an 'Island Hopping Penang' package linking Pulau Aman, Pulau Gedong and Pulau Jerejak. It also recommends upgrading basic infrastructure, including modern jetties, regular boat services and visitor facilities.
The Draft RSNPP 2040 (Review), a state strategic planning document outlining the direction of physical, economic, social and environmental development through 2040, is open for public inspection and participation until Sept 9, 2026.