Penang’s New Turtle-Shaped Art Gallery: A Must-Visit Spot For Muslim Travellers Opening December 2025

Penang’s art scene is getting a futuristic new icon — and it looks like a giant turtle shell glistening by the sea! Set to open by December 2025, the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery will soon join Penang’s growing list of must-visit attractions for art lovers and travellers alike.

But this isn’t just another museum. This is where art, culture, and peace come together, wrapped in a stunning shell-shaped building that seems to be surfacing straight out of the Penang Strait.

Also read: 13 Aesthetic & Muslim-Friendly Cafe in George Town, Penang

Where art meets the sea: The design story

Image credit: Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery | Official Facebook

Driving along The Light Waterfront, it’s hard to miss this gleaming structure that looks part–futuristic spaceship, part–turtle rising from the waves. Inspired by the turtle — a Chinese symbol of longevity, prosperity, and kindness — the gallery represents the artist’s philosophy of harmony between nature, humanity, and culture.

Inside, sunlight filters through sleek glass panels, filling the 7-storey space with natural light and sea views. The building spans over 8,000 square metres, featuring spacious halls, open galleries, a café, a rooftop terrace, and even a UNESCO education centre dedicated to arts and culture.

Imagine sipping coffee by the ocean after exploring Southeast Asian art — yes, that’s exactly the vibe here.

The vision behind the turtle shell

Image credit: Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery | Official Facebook

This RM88-million gallery is the brainchild of Professor Lin Xiang Xiong, a Singaporean humanitarian-artist known for his powerful social-themed artworks. The gallery will feature over 300 of his works alongside 200 pieces from international artists, blending Eastern and Western art traditions.

Beyond being a showcase of masterpieces, the Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery aims to serve as a bridge for global peace through exhibitions, cultural dialogues, and workshops centred on compassion and coexistence.

As Lin himself puts it:

“Through art, we can infuse society with positive energy and guide hearts back to the right path.”

Penang’s next cultural landmark

Image credit: moto moto; jvoisey | Canva Pro

Already home to UNESCO-listed George Town, Penang has long been Malaysia’s creative capital. With the addition of this turtle-shaped art sanctuary, the island will soon have a new cultural landmark to be proud of — one that combines architecture, nature, and soul in one place.

When it officially opens in December 2025, the gallery is expected to attract visitors from across Southeast Asia — not just art enthusiasts, but also travellers seeking peace, reflection, and creative inspiration.

Muslim-friendly tips for visiting the gallery

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If you’re planning a trip to Penang to catch this new attraction, here are some Muslim-friendly travel tips for your itinerary:

Halal Eats Nearby

You won’t have to go far for good food! Within a short drive of The Light Waterfront are plenty of halal dining options:

• Hammer Bay Seafood – For fresh, halal-certified seafood right by the water.

• Deen Maju Nasi Kandar – A Penang classic you simply can’t skip.

• Restoran Kapitan – Famous for its claypot biryani and tandoori chicken.

• Sushi King @ Queensbay Mall – Halal-certified and perfect for a light meal after exploring.

Prayer spaces

Need a place to pray? Here are some nearby options:

• Masjid Jamek Sungai Nibong Besar – Around 10 minutes away by car.

• Queensbay Mall Surau – Convenient and clean, perfect for travellers.

How to get there

Image credit: Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery | Official Facebook

The Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery sits within The Light City, about 15 minutes from George Town and 10 minutes from Penang Bridge. If you’re flying in, it’s roughly 20 minutes from Penang International Airport.

Pro tip: Plan your visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset views — the turtle shell exterior looks especially magical as it glows against the ocean backdrop.

Also read: Penang’s First Pink Sand Beach to Open in November 2025 — A Stunning New Attraction Near Singapore

Why you should add it to your 2025 travel list

Penang has always been about colour, flavour, and culture — and now, art is taking centre stage. The Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery isn’t just a museum; it’s a reflection of peace, humanity, and creative spirit that perfectly mirrors what Penang stands for.

So, whether you’re an art lover, a peace-seeker, or simply someone who loves discovering new places with purpose — make sure to add this turtle-shaped gem to your 2025 halal-friendly Penang itinerary.