Gudang Acheh, George Town

Gudang Acheh in 2008 (8 January 2008)


Gudang Acheh (GPS: 5.41363, 100.33726), or the Achenese Warehouse, at 322 Beach Street, 10300 Penang, is a four-storey heritage structure at the junction of Beach Street and Acheen Street. It is one of the oldest buildings along Lebuh Pantai, having appeared in the 1803 map of George Town. Originally built as a jail (it was purchased by Lieutenant Governor George Leith to be used as one), it was subsequently renovated into a shophouse as well as godown for the Achenese merchant Tengku Syed Hussain, the founder of the Acheen Street Mosque.

Gudang Acheh in 2012 (15 September 2012)


The shophouse front that we see today was believed to be added by Tengku Syed Hussain when he carried out his spice business. Throughout the 19th century, it was the tallest structure along Beach Street. For that reason, it was also known as Rumah Tinggi in Malay and Kuan Lau in Hokkien, both meaning "tall house".

You will notice that on the ground floor, the walls are especially stout and the windows tiny. This is probably for two reasons: so that by the technology of that time, the structure can be built to four storeys, and secondly, in its original design, it was intended as a jail.

Gudang Acheh in 2005 (19 February 2005)

Getting there

From the Weld Quay Ferry & Bus Terminal, cross Pengkalan Weld using the pedestrian crossing, then turn left, walk along Pengkalan Weld until the junction of Gat Lebuh Chulia. Turn right, walk along Gat Lebuh Chulia until junction of Lebuh Pantai. Turn left, walk along Beach Street until you reach the junction of Lebuh Acheh. Gudang Acheh is on your right, at the junction.

Street Art at Gudang Acheh

Gudang Acheh is featured in the steel rod sculpture entitled "Escape".

Gudang Acheh, George Town (11 February 2013)

Nearby Sights

Gudang Acheh is on the Map of Lebuh Pantai, George Town, Penang

References