Chew Jetty is a waterfront village on Weld Quay in George Town, Penang. Its wooden houses stand on stilts above the sea, linked by narrow boardwalks, and families still live in them. Many ground-floor rooms now hold souvenir shops, art stalls and snack counters, while temples and a community hall sit among the homes. Walk out to the far end for open sea views and a clear view of Penang Bridge, especially in the evening.
Who built the jetty
Chinese immigrants, many from Fujian province, reached Penang in the 19th century. Many could not afford land, so they built homes over the water instead. Each jetty became associated with one family or clan, and the jetties are named after those families.
Chew Jetty is the largest of the clan jetties and the best known. Several of the remaining jetties have UNESCO World Heritage status, and the village is part of that recognition. Its houses are built on wooden stilts over the water, and the boardwalks run between them.
What to see along the boardwalk
The walkway passes between the houses and leads to several temples dedicated to Chinese deities. A community hall also stands in the village. Along the way you will find souvenir shops, handicraft stalls and small counters selling snacks and drinks. Some families use the lower rooms of their homes as shops.
Just before the entrance, there are local eateries and a food court, which makes a good place to eat before or after your walk. Nearby Armenian Street has street art by Ernest Zacharevic. One of his early murals, of two children in a rowboat, has faded over the years.
A village that is still lived in
Descendants of the early settlers still live here, so the village has both shops and homes. Tourism has changed the feel of the place over time, but the houses, the water and the daily routines remain. Keeping to the walkways and treating the homes with care helps the village stay a place people can live in.
Getting there on foot
From central George Town, walk along Armenian Street toward the jetties. Cross Victoria Street and pass The Jetties Food Court. The red lanterns mark the entrance to Chew Jetty. The gate is easy to miss, so look for the lanterns and the sign with a map at the start of the walkway.
FAQ
Where is Chew Jetty?
Chew Jetty is on Weld Quay in George Town, Penang. From central George Town you can walk there along Armenian Street.
How long do you need?
A walk along the boardwalk can take about 20 minutes. Allow more time if you stop for photos, snacks or the sunset.
When is it least crowded?
Early morning or evening is calmer. Tour buses bring larger groups during the day.
Is Chew Jetty still lived in?
Yes. Descendants of the early settlers still live in the houses, so keep noise low and respect people's privacy.
Are there temples at Chew Jetty?
Yes. Several temples dedicated to Chinese deities stand along the jetty.
