Standing proudly in the heart of George Town, KOMTAR is one of Penang’s most recognisable landmarks. While many visitors know it as the state’s tallest building, KOMTAR is much more than a skyscraper. It serves as Penang’s main public transport hub, a shopping destination, a government administrative centre, and home to several popular attractions including The TOP Penang and the Rainbow Skywalk.
Whether you’re planning your first visit to George Town or looking for things to do beyond the UNESCO World Heritage Site, here’s everything you need to know about KOMTAR.
What is KOMTAR?
KOMTAR, short for Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak, was officially opened in 1985 as part of an ambitious urban renewal project aimed at revitalising George Town’s city centre.
At 249 metres tall with 68 storeys, it remains the tallest building in Penang and one of the tallest buildings in northern Malaysia.
Today, KOMTAR functions as:
- Penang State Government administrative offices
- Shopping mall
- Entertainment and attractions complex
- Public transport interchange
- Commercial offices
- Food and dining destination
For many locals, KOMTAR has been an important landmark for decades and remains one of the city’s busiest transport and commercial centres.
A Brief History of KOMTAR
Construction of KOMTAR began in the 1970s as part of Penang’s vision to modernise George Town.
The project was named after Malaysia’s second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak, with “KOMTAR” derived from Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak.
When completed, the tower quickly became Penang’s most iconic modern landmark.
Over the years, the building has undergone several renovations and redevelopment phases, transforming it from a traditional shopping complex into a mixed-use lifestyle destination featuring observation decks, family attractions and entertainment experiences.
Things to Do at KOMTAR
Visit The TOP Penang
The biggest attraction inside KOMTAR is undoubtedly The TOP Penang.
Occupying the upper levels of the tower, The TOP combines multiple attractions under one roof, making it one of Penang’s most popular family-friendly destinations.
Some highlights include:
- Rainbow Skywalk
- Observatory Deck
- Jurassic Research Center
- Tech Dome Penang
- Boutique Aquarium
- Magic Mirror Maze
- Musical Carousel
- Indoor attractions for children
Visitors can purchase individual attraction tickets or combination passes depending on their interests.
Experience the Rainbow Skywalk
Perhaps the most photographed attraction in KOMTAR is the Rainbow Skywalk.
Located at the top of the building, this glass-bottom platform extends beyond the edge of the tower, giving visitors a thrilling opportunity to stand nearly 250 metres above George Town.
On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views stretching across:
- George Town
- Penang Hill
- Butterworth
- Penang Bridge
- Straits of Malacca
Sunset is widely regarded as one of the best times to visit.
Enjoy the Observatory Deck
If you’re not comfortable standing on glass floors, the indoor observation deck offers equally impressive views in an air-conditioned environment.
Large glass windows allow visitors to appreciate George Town’s urban landscape while learning more about Penang through informative displays.
Explore Tech Dome Penang
Located within KOMTAR, Tech Dome Penang is one of Malaysia’s leading science discovery centres.
Designed for both children and adults, it features interactive exhibits covering:
- Robotics
- Engineering
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Space science
- Technology
It’s particularly popular with families and school groups.
Discover Jurassic Research Center
Dinosaur enthusiasts will enjoy the Jurassic-themed attraction featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, educational displays and interactive experiences suitable for younger visitors.
Shopping at KOMTAR
Although KOMTAR is no longer Penang’s largest shopping destination, it still offers a mix of retail outlets catering primarily to locals.
Visitors will find:
- Mobile phone shops
- Electronics
- Fashion boutiques
- Accessories
- Optical stores
- Convenience stores
- Local service providers
The shopping environment is relatively relaxed compared to newer malls such as Gurney Plaza or Queensbay Mall.
Where to Eat in KOMTAR
KOMTAR houses numerous cafés, restaurants and local eateries.
Visitors can find:
- Malaysian cuisine
- Chinese food
- Fast food
- Coffee shops
- Bubble tea outlets
- Dessert cafés
One of the biggest advantages of KOMTAR is its central location.
Within a short walking distance, you’ll discover many of George Town’s famous local food spots, making it an excellent starting point for a food adventure.
For more recommendations, explore our guides to:
KOMTAR as Penang’s Main Bus Terminal
Besides being an attraction, KOMTAR also serves as the primary interchange for Rapid Penang buses.
Many bus routes begin or stop here, making it one of the easiest places to travel around the island.
From KOMTAR, you can easily reach:
- Penang Hill
- Batu Ferringhi
- Gurney Drive
- Air Itam
- Balik Pulau
- Queensbay Mall
- Penang International Airport (via connecting routes)
If you’re travelling without a car, KOMTAR is one of the most convenient transport hubs in Penang.
You may also like our Penang Public Transport Guide.
Nearby Attractions Around KOMTAR
One of KOMTAR’s greatest advantages is its location in central George Town.
Many attractions are within walking distance.
Hin Bus Depot
Just a few minutes’ walk away, Hin Bus Depot has transformed into one of George Town’s creative hubs, featuring:
- Art exhibitions
- Weekend markets
- Cafés
- Creative studios
- Local designer shops
Armenian Street
Continue walking towards the UNESCO World Heritage Site to explore famous murals, heritage buildings, museums and local souvenir shops.
Read more in our guide to Armenian Street, Penang.
Chowrasta Market
One of Penang’s oldest traditional markets, Chowrasta Market is famous for local snacks, preserved fruits, nutmeg products and traditional breakfast stalls.
Best Time to Visit KOMTAR
KOMTAR can be visited throughout the year.
For the best experience:
- Morning: Less crowded
- Afternoon: Ideal for indoor attractions
- Sunset: Best for Rainbow Skywalk photography
- Evening: Beautiful city lights from the observation deck
If you’re planning to visit The TOP, allocating 2 to 4 hours allows enough time to enjoy several attractions comfortably.
How to Get to KOMTAR
By Bus
Most Rapid Penang routes stop directly at KOMTAR, making it the easiest option for public transport users.
By Car
Paid parking is available within the building and nearby commercial car parks.
By Ride-Hailing
Grab provides one of the most convenient ways to reach KOMTAR from anywhere in Penang.
Walking
If you’re staying within George Town’s heritage area, KOMTAR is typically a 10 to 20-minute walk from many popular hotels and attractions.
Tips for Visiting KOMTAR
- Visit Rainbow Skywalk close to sunset for the best views.
- Purchase combo tickets if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
- Bring a camera or smartphone for panoramic city photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you intend to explore nearby heritage streets afterwards.
- Combine your visit with nearby shopping malls and George Town’s street food scene for a full-day itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is KOMTAR famous?
KOMTAR is famous for being Penang’s tallest building, its iconic skyline presence, The TOP attractions, Rainbow Skywalk, and its role as the state’s main public transport hub.
Is KOMTAR worth visiting?
Yes. Whether you’re interested in panoramic city views, family attractions, science exhibits, shopping or convenient transport, KOMTAR offers something for almost every visitor.
How tall is KOMTAR?
KOMTAR stands approximately 249 metres (817 feet) tall with 68 storeys, making it the tallest building in Penang.
Is Rainbow Skywalk safe?
Yes. The Rainbow Skywalk is constructed with specially engineered safety glass and follows strict safety standards for visitors.
How much time should I spend at KOMTAR?
For shopping and dining, 1 to 2 hours is usually sufficient. If you’re visiting The TOP and its attractions, plan to spend around 3 to 4 hours.
Can I take public transport from KOMTAR?
Yes. KOMTAR is Penang’s primary Rapid Penang bus hub, with routes connecting many major attractions across the island.
KOMTAR remains one of the defining landmarks of George Town, blending Penang’s administrative, commercial and tourism functions under one roof. Whether you’re admiring the skyline from the Rainbow Skywalk, exploring interactive attractions at The TOP, catching a bus to another part of the island, or simply using it as a starting point for discovering the surrounding heritage streets, KOMTAR continues to play a central role in the Penang experience.
Its location at the crossroads of modern city life and George Town’s historic core makes it an easy addition to almost any itinerary. From first-time visitors to returning travellers, a stop at KOMTAR offers a convenient way to experience another side of Penang beyond its famous street food and UNESCO heritage streets.
