Google AI
The Times Australia

Times Media

HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang Opens, Marking the Brand’s First Presence in Malaysia

The Ascott Limited introduces a vibrant integrated stay, events and lifestyle hotel within Sunshine Central, Ayer Itam.

PENANG, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 3 July 2026 - HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang officially opens its doors today, marking the debut of the HARRIS brand in Malaysia and introducing a vibrant new hospitality, meetings and lifestyle destination in the heart of Ayer Itam.

Located just 30 minutes from the Penang International Airport and within Sunshine Central in Ayer Itam, the hotel offers a strategic Penang address that brings together modern accommodation, meetings and events facilities, direct mall connectivity, and access to retail, dining and lifestyle conveniences, as well as some of Penang's best-known local attractions. Designed for domestic and international leisure travellers, families, business travellers, groups and event planners, the hotel offers a practical and well-rounded hospitality experience in one of the island's established local neighbourhoods.

Marking HARRIS' First Presence in Malaysia

The opening of HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang reflects the growing appeal of Penang as a destination where leisure, food, culture, healthcare, retail and business events meet. With its location near Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple, traditional markets and local hawker food, the hotel provides a convenient base for travellers seeking to experience Penang beyond the usual city-centre stay.

At the same time, its position within Sunshine Central strengthens its relevance for corporate travellers, meeting planners, event organisers and business groups. The hotel is connected to retail and lifestyle facilities, supported by extensive parking within the development, and offers direct access to event spaces suited for corporate meetings, conferences, seminars, weddings, annual dinners and social celebrations.

"The debut of HARRIS in Malaysia is an important milestone for Ascott as we continue to expand our brand portfolio across the country," said Mondi Mecja, Country General Manager, Ascott Malaysia. "Penang's strong position as a tourism, healthcare and business events destination makes it an ideal location for the brand's first Malaysian property. Together with our partners at Sunshine Central, we are excited to introduce a hotel that caters to today's leisure travellers, families, corporate guests and event organisers in one integrated destination."

A Stay Designed for Leisure, Business and Group Travel

The hotel features 284 rooms and suites, comprising HARRIS Rooms, HARRIS Suites and HARRIS Family Suites. Its accommodation is designed to support both short stays and group travel, with room options suited for individual travellers, couples, families and guests attending meetings or events. Facilities include Harris Bistro, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, F&B lounge, swimming pool, children's wading pool, children's playground, gymnasium and high-speed Wi-Fi, reflecting HARRIS' energetic and friendly approach to practical hospitality.

Discovering Ayer Itam and Penang's Local Attractions

For families and leisure travellers, HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang offers an accessible stay option within reach of Ayer Itam's popular food, retail and cultural experiences. Its proximity to Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple also creates opportunities for weekend stays, family holidays, group itineraries and pre- or post-event leisure visits.

A New Venue for Meetings, Weddings and Events

As one of the newest large-scale event venues in Penang, the pillarless Grand Ballroom, which can host up to 1,000 guests for banquet-style events, making it suitable for weddings, gala dinners, annual dinners and large-scale corporate functions.

The event spaces are designed for flexibility, with adaptable seating layouts, moveable partitions and modern AV capabilities, including integrated LED screens, high-speed Wi-Fi, professional sound and microphone systems, and dedicated AV control support.

With local weddings, company events, meetings and regional business events expected to be key demand drivers, the hotel is positioned as a practical new choice for planners who require accommodation, event space, retail convenience and ample parking access in one connected destination.

Convenience for Medical Travellers and Visiting Families

HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang is also well placed for guests visiting Penang for healthcare-related travel, with access to established hospitals and private medical facilities on the island. Together with its family-friendly accommodation, mall connectivity, dining options, the hotel provides a convenient base for medical travellers and accompanying family members.

Opening Offer

To celebrate its opening, HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang is offering HARRIS Rooms from RM308+ per room per night. Book from now till 31 October 2026, and stay period from 3 July to 31 October 2026. Website for bookings: Reservations and Bookings

Guests may also follow HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Sunshine Penang on Facebook at facebook.com/harrissunshinepenang and Instagram at @harris_sunshinepenang for the latest updates and opening highlights.

For images, please click here.



Hashtag: #HARRISHotels #HARRISHotel&ConventionsSunshinePenang #TheAscottLimited




The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About The Ascott Limited

The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott's presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes,,,,,,,,,,,, and.

Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.

As a wholly owned business unit of, Ascott generates fee-related revenue by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored and private funds.

For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit. Alternatively, connect with Ascott on,, and.

Times Magazine

Tax Deductions Australians Are Missing – and the Claims That Could Land You in Hot Water

Every tax season, Australians tend to fall into one of two camps. There are those who are so nervou...

Camden Valley Inn Opens Its Doors for Couples Planning Their Dream Wedding

Couples are invited to discover one of South-West Sydney’s most picturesque wedding destinations and...

Publishing a Book Still Runs on a Model Most Industries Abandoned Decades Ago

Imagine pitching a business partnership where one side does all the work and the other side keeps ...

Technology

Australia’s AI Productivity Push Ne…

Australia’s business use of artificial intelligence has accelerated quickly. The Australian Bureau...

Local News

Psychology clinic in Tasmania opens…

In response to Tasmania’s growing mental health crisis, a new purpose-built, multi-disciplinary me...

Culture

Street Side Medics Officially Launches Canber…

Street Side Medics has officially launched its first ACT-based clinic, expanding the charity’s GP-...

Travel

Cairns Esplanade Lagoon — the stage where Cai…

“All the world's a stage.” Shakespeare wasn't writing about Cairns when he penned that famous lin...

The Times Features

Street Side Medics Officially Launches Canberra Clinic…

Street Side Medics has officially launched its first ACT-based clinic, expanding the charity’s GP-...

Where to Escape This Winter: Marnong Estate

As the temperatures drop, the appeal of escaping the city for rolling vineyards, long lunches and ...

Tax Deductions Australians Are Missing – and the Claims…

Every tax season, Australians tend to fall into one of two camps. There are those who are so nervou...