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Penang which has been nicknamed the Pearl of the Orient is well known to the world ever since Francis Light landed on the island in 1786. It has become popular not only as a tourist destination but also an important commercial, business and industrial centre, a major achievement of the state government that enabled the island to gain such recognition.
The world knew Penang more than any other city in Malaysia. Every year millions of tourists all over the world visit the island. Some fly direct but the majority come through Kuala Lumpur and many come by road as flights to the island are still limited.
Realizing the potential of Penang as another important gateway, Malaysia Airports has taken the initiative to improve the airport. The airport, being a gateway to the island, must reflect the characteristics of the state and promote the island’s iconic destinations. Penang’s fame as the Pearl of the Orient must be felt by passengers when they arrive at the terminal. It is with this intention that the consortium of CPG Consultants(CPG), a foreign company and AHS Architects Sdn Bhd (AHS) – a Penang based local architectural firm will join hands to develop the airport to achieve these objectives to ensure the airport remains as one of the premier airports generating revenue for Malaysia Airports group of companies.
Type Of Project
Transportation Hub - Airport Terminal
Location
Bayan Lepas, Penang
Client
Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad
Year
2019
Project Cost
RM 1.2 B
Status
Submission
Terminal Planning and Design Objectives
The planning and design of the upgrading and expansion of the Penang International Airport terminal is not only driven by practical concerns of functionality, efficiency, cost effectiveness and design flexibility but must also address the need to create ‘a place for people’ which is dynamic and uplifting.
And consistent with the goals which MASB has for the Project, the following objectives are adopted as guidelines in the design development:
Segregation of International from Domestic Passengers with segregation of departures and arrivals flows required for international passengers whilst domestic is mixed flow.
The international and domestic passengers are being processed in their respective dedicated terminals. Separation of the departure and arrival flows for international passengers is provided by levels but with visual access to the adjoining and main spaces.
Clarity and Simplicity
It is only right that people are put first in the planning and development of design concept of the proposed upgrade and expansion of the terminal building. Passenger access and orientation will be uncomplicated and stress-free. All passengers will appreciate minimum level changes and use of ramps wherever these are necessary, and short walking distances, together with intuitive way finding. Good signage and graphics will provide additional assurance.
Capacity and Operating Efficiency
A proposed terminal building layout that satisfies both passengers & operators is important to achieve. The proposal must meet the targeted operational standards in terms of spatial provisions and processing systems.
Comfort and Convenience
The environment and the ambiance of the interior shall be attractive, friendly, calm and reassuring. It will not indulge in an extravagant expression. Amenities to satisfy both passengers and visitors are conveniently located. All passengers will enjoy the same space – and spaciousness – with the key volumes being lofty and filled with natural light, while allowing extensive external views.
Optimizing Retail and Food & Beverage Opportunities
The key items to be addressed are:
Development of large/consolidated commercial clusters
Placing an extremely high emphasis on maximizing sales and resultant income amounts from the airport’s primary departures shops
Creating passenger flows that ensure visibility to a majority of shop fronts while also providing intuitive circulation paths
Ensuring that walking distances and level changes are minimized
Identifying opportunities – physical and/or operational - that serve to minimize the perceived and actual distances between commercial facilities and passenger seating/dwell areas.
Sustainability
A sustainable building relies on principles and strategies that collectively reduce the building’s potential negative impact on the environment. In the design for upgrade and expansion of Penang International Airport, the approach to sustainability will ensure the appropriate response to climate, orientation of facades and use of materials that can help maximize human comfort whilst minimizing energy use.
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