Clan Jetties

It is a waterfront society and is one of the last bastions of old Chinese settlements on Penang island. There used to be seven jetties until one was demolished by fire. Now, only six Clan Jetties remain.

The history of the Clan Jetties is closely connected to the history of Penang. The jetties were established during the time when the maritime trade was thriving. There were many Chinese immigrants who came to Penang in the early 19th century. They worked at the docks as coolies as well as boat operators transporting passengers. The clusters of wooden houses on the jetties were built by the poor Chinese immigrants who work at the nearby port. All settlers of the jetties hailed from the Tong An district in Fujian, China.

As the jetties received more immigrants from China, the Chew Jetty (the oldest jetty) was established in the middle of 19th century. The newest jetties, the Peng Aun Jetty and Mixed Clan jetties were built in the 1960s. In between those years, the Lee, Yeoh and Tan jetties were constructed in the late 19th century. The Koay jetty was established in the 1950s.

The Clan Jetties can easily be found along the Pengkalan Weld. It is nestled on the outskirts of Chinatown, nearby Swettenham Pier. From Komtar, it will take approximately 10 minutes. The Clan Jetties form a part of the Penang Heritage Trail.

Image by Marufish.

Visiting Hours

Monday – Friday: 9am – 9pm.

There are people living in the houses. Please be considerate and keep the noise down when visiting at night.

Admission

FREE.

Location

Weld Quay,
10300 George Town.

View on map.

Hear From Others

The clan jetties along Pengkalan Weld hold much historical significance as they have been in existence as early as the 19th century.

Lily
AnythingLily

It’s a great place to explore and you really do feel like you’ve been taken back to a simpler time.

Yasmine
Peeking Duck

The clan jetties in Penang were mostly built in the late 1800s although their fame didn’t quite kick until maybe a few years ago.

Cavin Teo
Entree Kibbles

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