KOMTAR
KOMTAR, short for Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak, is a versatile complex
encompassing retail outlets, a transportation hub, and administrative offices
for the Penang state government. Named after Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, the second
prime minister of Malaysia, KOMTAR holds historical significance as it was
initiated with the presence of Tun Abdul Razak during the piling ceremony on 1
January 1974. The complex shares its name with Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak in Johor
Bahru, which was constructed around the same time but on a smaller scale. During
its construction, KOMTAR stood as a remarkable architectural feat in Penang,
reflecting the visionary aspirations of the then Chief Minister, Dr Lim Chong Eu,
to rejuvenate the urban center of George Town and propel the state forward.
Notably, KOMTAR features the iconic 65-storey KOMTAR Tower, a testament to local
expertise, as well as a geodesic dome designed by Buckminster Fuller. The
architectural design was spearheaded by Lim Chong Keat, the younger brother of
Dr Lim. At its peak construction, the KOMTAR Tower briefly held the distinction
of being the tallest building in Asia; however, by the time of its completion,
that title had been claimed by the Korean Life Insurance Building (KLI 63
Building) in Seoul.
Although KOMTAR was initially envisioned to be the premier shopping destination
on Penang Island, hosting a range of upscale retail outlets, it gradually lost
its appeal in the face of emerging competition from newer shopping centers like
Gurney Plaza, Queensbay Mall, and Sunshine Square. This decline in popularity,
coupled with various negative issues, has tarnished KOMTAR's reputation over the
years.
One of the major drawbacks associated with KOMTAR is the significant
displacement of communities and the erasure of entire streets and neighborhoods
to make way for its construction. This resulted in a deserted environment
surrounding KOMTAR, with the relocation of the bus and taxi terminal to the
complex exacerbating traffic congestion and pollution issues.
Furthermore, the economic downturn of the late 1990s took a toll on KOMTAR. Both
of its anchor tenants, Yaohan and Super KOMTAR departmental stores, faced
financial difficulties and eventually closed down. Without a strong anchor
tenant, KOMTAR struggled to maintain its status as a premier shopping
destination. The inadequate maintenance of the building further contributed to
its deterioration, giving rise to a neglected and unsightly structure with dimly
lit and deserted areas.
These factors collectively deterred potential tenants from being attracted to
the complex. In many ways, the challenges posed by and resulting from KOMTAR
serve as a regrettable reflection of the directionless approach to governance in
Penang. The state of KOMTAR can be likened to the overall state of abandoned
shop houses scattered throughout George Town, symbolizing the need for
comprehensive revitalization efforts.
Getting there
The KOMTAR Bus Terminal is one of the main bus terminal in Penang Island. Most
of the bus routes pass through it.
undo...back