NusaCinta @ Setia Fontaines is a visionary township development located in Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang, spanning over 1,691 acres. This expansive masterplan integrates 16 residential precincts, 270 acres of commercial and retail zones, a 100-acre Heritage Park, and 8.8 kilometres of waterways. Strategically situated near the North-South Expressway, the township enjoys excellent accessibility and is surrounded by educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and retail conveniences. It is meticulously designed to offer a harmonious lifestyle removed from the bustle of city life.

The featured precinct, NusaCinta, is a gated and guarded residential enclave covering 69.26 acres and comprising 489 housing units. It exemplifies a balance between natural surroundings and social well-being. Inspired by the geography of the Malay Archipelago, the development’s defining feature is its aqua-centric layout. A 63-acre man-made lake and surrounding canals form an “Archipelago of Dreams,” with aquatic buffers that provide a serene atmosphere, noise reduction, and enhanced privacy. The presence of nine themed water fountains ensures that every parcel remains visually connected to water elements.

The residential typology includes a range of housing options, from single-storey terraces to double-storey bungalows, ensuring diversity and adaptability. The buildings are oriented north-south to reduce solar heat gain, while neighbourhood clustering breaks the development into four asymmetrical quadrants. This thoughtful layout fosters smaller, more intimate communities. At the heart of the site stands the clubhouse, a central hub for community interaction. Community well-being is prioritised through recreational amenities housed in the central clubhouse. These include a swimming pool, gymnasium, library, multipurpose hall, BBQ area, and a kids’ corner. The inclusion of eco-friendly transport routes, vibrant green landscapes, and water features supports a holistic, connected lifestyle.

Pedestrian-friendly planning is a core principle of NusaCinta. Roads narrow progressively toward residential units to prioritise walkability, while intentionally meandering streets slow down vehicle traffic for added safety. A robust network of pathways, clearly marked pedestrian crossings, and expansive green buffers ensure a safe and pleasant walking experience. Cycling and jogging tracks, green promenades, and landscaped water gardens promote low-carbon mobility and a healthy lifestyle.

The integration of green and blue infrastructure reflects the project’s sustainable vision. Water bodies function as both aesthetic features and retention systems for flood management. The use of native flora, including 30 species of plants and flowers, not only enhances biodiversity but also mitigates the urban heat island effect. Extensive greenery contributes to carbon capture and cooler microclimates, boosting the township’s resilience to climate change.

NusaCinta embodies modern urban principles, combining the ideals of eco-city, smart city, safe city, future city, and resilient city frameworks. Its focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and social connectivity positions it as a model for forward-thinking development in Penang. With its integrated approach to liveability, environment, and infrastructure, NusaCinta stands as a flagship of sustainable urban planning and a benchmark for future townships in the region.