The Waterfront Shoppes Penang Opens on 29 October: Shops, Food & Seaside Fun

A new mall, a massive indoor adventure park, food stops to check out and a special opening promotion — Penang has a new place to put on its weekend list! The Waterfront Shoppes Penang is set to soft-open on 29 October 2026, bringing a fresh shopping and entertainment destination to The Light City in Gelugor.

And there is more to look forward to than shopping bags. The mall will welcome Xventure, an indoor adventure park featuring 11 activity zones, including an eight-metre-high Challenger Arena and an aerial rope course. There is even an opening promotion where the first 100 customers can buy a second Xventure ticket for just RM1, subject to availability.

With food and drink outlets, retail shops, karaoke and more tenants opening in phases, this new waterfront destination could give Penangites another reason to head towards Gelugor for a day out. Here is what to look forward to, what is opening first and what you should know before visiting.

Where Is The Waterfront Shoppes Penang?

The Waterfront Shoppes is located in Gelugor, as part of The Light City development along Penang’s eastern waterfront. The development is a joint venture between IJM Corporation and Singapore-based Perennial Holdings.

Spanning approximately 1.6 million square feet across four levels, the mall is planned to accommodate around 300 retail spaces. It is also connected to the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), which can host large-scale events and conventions.

That means the area could attract more than just shoppers. People attending conferences and events may have somewhere nearby to grab a meal or do a little shopping, while Penang residents will have another option for family outings and meet-ups with friends.

And with its waterfront setting, the location has the potential to offer a different feel from the usual shopping trip. Whether you are planning to browse the shops, enjoy a meal or try an activity with the family, there may be several reasons to spend a few hours here as the mall grows.

What Shops and Food Outlets Can You Expect?

For those who enjoy being among the first to check out a new shopping spot, several tenants have already been highlighted in announcements and social media posts.

They include:

• Bakestone
• Mixue
• Mii Korea Concept Store
• 65c Ondo
• Zai San Bei
• Loud Speaker Karaoke
• Para Thai

It is an interesting mix of food, drinks, shopping and entertainment. You could stop by for a drink, check out a new shop, plan a meal with friends or sing your heart out at the karaoke outlet once it opens.

The mall also features four themed zones: Union Square, Campbell Court, Victoria Square and Rodeo Drive. Campbell Court and Victoria Square draw inspiration from familiar Penang street names and heritage, while Rodeo Drive takes its cue from the famous shopping district in Los Angeles.

This blend of local references and international inspiration gives the mall a little more character than a row of shops under one roof.

Do note that the opening will take place in phases. Not every shop will necessarily be operating on 29 October, and the full tenant list has not yet been confirmed. If you are visiting for a particular outlet, check its opening status before making the trip.

Xventure Penang: 11 Adventure Zones for Families and Friends

Now, here is the part that may interest those who prefer a little action over a shopping trolley.

Xventure is opening its first Malaysian outlet at The Waterfront Shoppes on 29 October. The indoor adventure park represents an investment of RM8 million and covers approximately 1,800 square metres, with 11 adventure zones designed for teenagers, adults, families and groups.

Among its main attractions are:

• Challenger Arena: An eight-metre-high attraction featuring digital tagging and a live leaderboard. Expect a little friendly competition as players test their speed and skills.
• Aerial Rope Course: A course of obstacles positioned around 4.5 metres above the ground, for visitors keen to test their balance and confidence.
• Gigantic Seesaw: A group activity that encourages visitors to work together while having fun.

It could be a fun alternative for families looking for something different to do together, or groups of friends who want more than the usual café catch-up. Companies may also find it an option for team-building activities.

How Much Are Xventure Tickets?

Non-peak two-hour tickets start from RM40 for X-Junior and RM60 for X-Plorer, with ticket categories based on height. Prices and packages may vary, so check the latest details before booking.

There is also an opening promotion running from 29 October to 1 November 2026. The first 100 customers can purchase a second ticket for RM1, subject to availability and the promotion’s terms.

Xventure is scheduled to open at 11.30am on 29 October, with daily operating hours of 10am to 10pm thereafter.

If you are keen to try it during the opening period, it is worth checking the official Xventure channels for the latest ticket information and promotion conditions before heading over.

Is The Waterfront Shoppes Worth Visiting During Its Soft Opening?

If you love exploring new places in Penang, the soft opening could be a good opportunity to have an early look. You can see how the mall is taking shape, check out the shops that are already open and get a feel for what this new destination has to offer.

Families may want to make Xventure the main attraction, while friends could plan a visit around food, shopping and karaoke as more outlets begin operating. Those attending events at PWCC may also find the mall a convenient place to stop for a meal or a little retail therapy.

However, keep in mind that a soft opening is not the same as a full opening. Some shops, facilities and planned features may not be ready yet. The full tenant list, mall-wide operating hours and parking arrangements should also be checked through official updates before your visit.

A little planning will help you avoid turning up with a particular shop in mind, only to find that it has not opened yet.

Could This Become Penang’s Next Weekend Hangout?

Penangites know the appeal of a new place to explore. There is always the curiosity of seeing what has opened, trying a new food spot and deciding whether it deserves a second visit.

The Waterfront Shoppes has several ingredients that could make it an interesting addition to Penang’s retail and leisure scene: a sizeable shopping complex, food and drink outlets, themed spaces, an indoor adventure park and a location connected to a major convention centre.

Of course, it takes time for a new mall to settle into everyday life. The mix of tenants, activities and conveniences — along with how easily people can get there — will help determine whether it becomes a regular stop for local families and groups of friends.

For now, 29 October marks the beginning of a new chapter for The Light City. If you are curious about Penang’s newest shopping destination, keep an eye on the opening updates, gather your makan kakis or family, and plan an early visit when the time is right.

Who knows? You might find a new favourite place for your next weekend outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When does The Waterfront Shoppes Penang open?

The Waterfront Shoppes Penang is scheduled to soft-open on 29 October 2026. The mall will open in phases, so not every shop or facility may be ready on the first day. Check official updates before visiting if you have a particular store or attraction in mind.

2. Where is The Waterfront Shoppes located in Penang?

The Waterfront Shoppes is located in Gelugor, within The Light City development along Penang’s eastern waterfront. It is connected to the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre, making it a potential stop for shoppers, local residents and people attending events in the area.

3. What shops are opening at The Waterfront Shoppes Penang?

Tenants highlighted so far include Bakestone, Mixue, Mii Korea Concept Store, 65c Ondo, Zai San Bei, Loud Speaker Karaoke and Para Thai. As the opening is phased, outlets may begin operating at different times. Check the mall’s official channels for the latest tenant announcements.

4. What is Xventure at The Waterfront Shoppes Penang?

Xventure is an indoor adventure park opening at The Waterfront Shoppes on 29 October 2026. Its 1,800-square-metre facility features 11 adventure zones, including a digital tagging arena and an aerial rope course. It is designed for teenagers, adults, families and groups.

5. How much are Xventure Penang tickets?

Non-peak two-hour tickets start from RM40 for X-Junior and RM60 for X-Plorer, depending on height. From 29 October to 1 November 2026, the first 100 customers can buy a second ticket for RM1, subject to availability. Check Xventure’s official channels for the latest prices and promotion terms.