Once an abandoned relic, the former Kayangan Resort sat dormant for over 13 years, its potential untapped. Now reborn as Bertam Resort, it stands as a bold reimagining that fuses cultural richness with modern luxury—an oasis in the suburban landscape of Kepala Batas, Penang. From a troubled past, Bertam Resort has emerged triumphantly, transforming itself into a sought-alter destination for families, corporate events, weddings, and culinary experiences.
Building upon the bones left by its predecessor, the resort embraces a distinctive Malay-Moroccan aesthetic. The Moorish-inspired arches, intricate carvings, and flowing forms pay homage to traditional craftsmanship, while elements like sculptural pendant lamps and Bensley-esque black-and-white patterns inject a touch of contemporary flair. The result is a stunning visual identity that blends old-world charm with modern sophistication.
One of the most significant feats of this makeover lies in the dramatic expansion of both the hotel pool and the adjoining water park—more than doubling their original sizes. Despite its compact footprint, the new water park boasts a wave pool, hot springs, a children’s splash zone, and even a souk-themed retail experience. Former administrative areas were creatively repurposed into changing facilities, while a semi-open bistro now overlooks the park, allowing guests to dine while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
The resort’s courtyard has undergone a radical transformation as well. By lowering it by nearly three meters, the architects elevated the entire guest experience. The lobby now connects fluidly to the redesigned courtyard, where once-subterranean seminar and pre-function spaces have been brought into the light both figuratively and literally. The pool, previously tucked away behind enclosed spaces, now takes centre stage, framed by tropical landscaping and flowing seamlessly into the guest journey from the lobby.
A masterful fusion of Malay and Moroccan vernaculars, enhancing spatial clarity through redefined circulation, integrated courtyard, and poolside amenities that elevate the tropical resort experience.
Along poolside corridors, 3D wall panels adorned with ornate Malay carvings add texture and depth, while balconies cast intricate shadows over recessed daybeds framed in arabesque mouldings. Blue and cool grey tones dominate the palette, enhancing the aquatic calm of the space. As night falls, the lobby emits an ambient blue glow, casting a serene reflection over the pool below.
Practical adjustments also support this elevated experience. The VIP lounge has been relocated nearer to the banquet hall for added convenience, and a beautiful open deck now sits in its former place. In a bid to reduce visual clutter, the structure has been re-engineered to widen the courtyard, while a redesigned beam at the lobby entrance subtly enhances the grandeur of arrival.
Perhaps the most exclusive feature is the resort’s series of five newly created pool suites carved out of what was once a spa area. Each of these suites boasts a record-breaking private lap pool that stretches nearly the full length of the room, designed to respect cultural values of privacy and modesty. To support these luxuries, major structural reinforcements were made to the flooring—demonstrating the resort’s commitment to both form and function.
Bertam Resort may not be situated in a traditional tourist hotspot, but it’s clear that its unique blend of design, culture, and innovation has struck a chord in Penang’s hospitality scene.
