The Clan Jetties of Penang are part of the heritage area of George Town and represent a unique cultural legacy. These water villages were established in the 19th century by Chinese immigrants who settled along the coast. Each jetty is named after the specific clan that inhabited it, and the residents built wooden houses on stilts, extending into the sea. The clans were primarily involved in trade, fishing, and later port labor.

The Clan Jetties originated as a solution to the housing needs of immigrant workers who couldn’t afford land-based accommodation. Over time, these jetties developed into thriving communities, each governed by its respective clan associations. Today, the Chew Jetty is the most famous, known for its traditional stilt houses, which have now been incorporated into Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Things to Do at Clan Jetties

1. Walk along the Wooden Plank Walkways: Stroll through the narrow wooden walkways and admire the traditional stilt houses that line the jetties.
2. Visit Chew Jetty: The most tourist-friendly and famous of the jetties, known for its lively atmosphere, traditional homes, and souvenir shops.
3. Clan Temples: Many jetties have small clan temples where visitors can see traditional Chinese architecture and religious practices.
4. Photography: The scenic setting with houses built over the water offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
5. Cultural Experience: The Clan Jetties are living heritage sites, where you can witness daily life, from residents fishing to family gatherings.

How to Get to Clan Jetties

• By Car: The Clan Jetties are located along the waterfront at the end of Armenian Street in George Town, Penang. It’s about a 10-minute drive from the city center. There are parking areas nearby.
• By Bus: Take Rapid Penang bus numbers 101 or 104 to Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay), which is just a short walk from the jetties.
• By Foot: If you’re already exploring George Town, the jetties are within walking distance of other heritage sites such as Armenian Street and the Khoo Kongsi clan house.

Tourist Attractions at Clan Jetties

1. Chew Jetty: The most visited jetty, with souvenir shops, food stalls, and small cafes. It’s also a hub for traditional wooden stilt houses.
2. Clan Temples: Several jetties, including the Tan Jetty and Lee Jetty, have small temples dedicated to their respective clan deities.
3. Jetties’ Cultural Significance: Each jetty represents a specific Chinese clan, giving visitors a glimpse into the historical clan-based society.
4. Floating Houses: The stilt houses, built over the sea, are a testament to the ingenuity of the early Chinese settlers and their unique way of life.
5. Street Art: Near the Clan Jetties, visitors can explore some of George Town’s famous street art, including the popular murals along Armenian Street.

Famous Eating Places near Clan Jetties

1. Chew Jetty Hawker Stalls: Located at the entrance of Chew Jetty, these stalls offer traditional Penang street food like Char Kway Teow, Laksa, and Cendol.
2. Weld Quay Tree Shade Mee Goreng: A famous hawker stall near the jetties known for its flavorful Mee Goreng (fried noodles) under a large tree.
3. Pengkalan Weld Food Court: This food court along Weld Quay offers a variety of Penang street food, including Hokkien Mee, Prawn Noodles, and Nasi Lemak.
4. Air Itam Laksa: Located a short distance away, this famous stall serves authentic Penang Assam Laksa.
5. Goh Huat Seng: A nearby restaurant offering traditional steamboat (hot pot), a popular Chinese dining experience.

Opening Hours

• The Clan Jetties are open all day, as they are residential areas. However, it’s best to visit between 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM to explore the shops and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Entrance Fees

• Entrance to the jetties: Free of charge. However, some temples and private homes may request donations if you choose to enter.

Visiting the Clan Jetties offers a rich cultural and historical experience, where you can immerse yourself in the daily life of Penang’s Chinese community while enjoying the nearby local food.