Malay Street Ghaut (Gat Lebuh Melayu), George Town

Malay Street Ghaut, George Town, Penang (4 July 2019)


Malay Street Ghaut (Malay: Gat Lebuh Melayu) is the extension of Malay Street which was built following the land reclamation at the end of the 19th century. Until then, Malay Street ends at a jetty which leads out into the sea, through the mudflats and mangrove.

The creation of Malay Street Ghaut extends the existing Malay Street all the way to the newly created Weld Quay. From there, clan jetties extend into the sea.

Map of Gat Lebuh Melayu, Penang

Sights on Malay Street Ghaut

Malay Street Ghaut was named as an extension of Malay Street, which itself was named after the Malay village around the Acheen Street Mosque. The shophouses at the junction has aesthetically pleasing balconies protruding onto the street. These have remain in a reasonably well-preserved state. Nonetheless it underwent restoration in 2011, which cleaned up the walls (but also erased some of its characteristic charm).

Getting there

From the Weld Quay Ferry & Bus Terminal, you can reach Malay Street Ghaut by taking the bus or going on foot. The free City Hop On Shuttle Bus passes Bus Stop No. 14 (Lebuh Carnarvon). From there, walk a short distance through Malay Street to reach Malay Street Ghaut. On foot, walk south along Weld Quay until you reach the junction of Malay Street Ghaut on your right.

Malay Street Ghaut, George Town, Penang (4 July 2019)


Malay Street Ghaut, George Town, Penang (4 December 2008)


Malay Street Ghaut with protruding balconies, before restoration (4 December 2008)


Beach Street shophouse, after restoration (22 May 2011)


History plaque of Malay Street Ghaut (4 December 2008)


Gat Lebuh Melayu roadsign (10 February 2020)

Updates on Malay Street Ghaut

20 May, 2017: Traffic direction on Malay Street Ghaut has been revamped to flow towards Beach Street and Weld Quay from Victoria Street.

List of Streets in Penang and Streets in Malaysia