Teluk Bahang Dam, Penang

Location Map

The Teluk Bahang Dam is the largest dam on Penang Island. It was built to provide an alternative source of water supply to the Ayer Itam Dam and the Botanic Gardens Waterfall. It is located on the southern part of Teluk Bahang. From its crest, one can enjoy a scenic view of the northern coast of Penang Island. The Teluk Bahang Dam was completed in 1999. The dam has a height of 58.5 meters and a length of 685 meters. The crest is 12 meters thick, allowing for a roadway to be built along it. The Teluk Bahang Dam is often used as the venue for international dragon boat races.

Getting there

From George Town, take the northern beach road through Batu Ferringhi until you reach the Teluk Bahang roundabout. Make a 9 o'clock turn to the left. You will reach the dam after passing the Penang Butterfly Farm and the Teluk Bahang Recreational Forest, both on the left side of the road. If you are taking public transport, Rapid Penang Bus 101 goes to Teluk Bahang Village. From there you need to change to Bus U501 that heads towards Balik Pulau. Take note that bus services is sporadic.

What to see or do

The Teluk Bahang Dam is not open to the public except during the boat race. It is not a tourist site. Nevertheless you can view it from the roadside.

Updates

1 June, 2011
The Plenitude Penang International Dragon Boat Festival will be held at the Teluk Bahang Dam on 11-12 June, 2011, with participation of teams from Australia, China, Guam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, the Philippines, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates, along with 15 Malaysian teams from Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Kedah and Perak. Since the boat tragedy of 17 January, 2010, no school teams are allowed to participate, said committee chairman Danny Law.