The landscape of Langkawi will change significantly in the coming years following the development a huge new tourism and residential complex.

Earmarked for Cenang Beach, a popular tourist area in the south of the Malaysian island, the new Tropicana Cenang complex will include twin 40-storey towers, a 350-room hotel operated by China’s Wanda Hotels & Resorts, plus retail space and other facilities. The total project will cover an area of 2.1 hectares and will overlook the Indian Ocean.

The governor of Kedah state, which includes Langkawi, said he believes the new development will elevate the island’s status as a major tourism destination.

“The development is expected to bring growth opportunities to both the tourism and property industry at this island,” said Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah. “Tourism has emerged as a powerful vehicle for economic transformation, job creation and infrastructure development in Langkawi. A main tourist destination and the third largest island in Malaysia, Langkawi has emerged as an attractive option for property development and property investment. Given this positive outlook, we believe that this development will further spur socio-economic development of the local communities with the creation of more employment as well as entrepreneurial opportunities.”

Tropicana Cenang will be developed at a cost of approximately MYR1.55 billion (US$361 million) and will be completed in phases. The first residential tower is expected to be finished by the end of 2021, with the second following 12 months later. These will comprise a total of 1,102 furnished serviced residences with two, three and four bedrooms.

The hotel, which will be known as the Wanda Realm Resort Langkawi, will offer 350 rooms and suites, plus restaurants, conference space and leisure facilities.

“We believe that this development meets the needs for high-end, seafront resort-living lifestyle, one that is tailored to further boost the tourism and services industry here,” said Wira Abdullah Hasnan Kamaruddin, chairman of Cenang Resort. “Together [with Wanda Hotels & Resorts], we hope that this project will not only meet the demands and requirements of luxury tourism on the island but also raise the standards of the facilities and services offered.”