First phase of construction for Tioman Gateway to begin this month

PETALING JAYA (March 11): The first phase of construction of the RM21 million duty-free complex Tioman Gateway in Tioman Island, Pantai Tekek is expected to begin this month and the whole project is scheduled to be completed in 1Q2018.

Tioman Gateway is developed by DR Group Holdings Sdn Bhd and Tioman Development Authority.

“Tioman Gateway in Pantai Tekek has an estimated gross retail development area of 40,350 sq ft. DR Group has secured the land from the Pahang state government through the Tioman Development Authority,” said DR Group executive director Datuk Arshad Desa during a press conference on March 3, according to City & Country.

The 3km Pantai Tekek lies on the west cost of Tioman Island where Kampung Tekek is the “capital village” of Tioman Island and offers duty-free shopping. The island was gazetted as a duty-free island in 2002 and receives nearly 300,000 visitors annually.

“Tioman Gateway, which is endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism, will offer basic public amenities such as a surau, restrooms and relaxation areas alongside a good selection of F&B outlets and a duty-free mall.

“In addition, Tioman Gateway will incorporate a public carpark linked to the complex by a footbridge. The key advantage of Tioman Gateway is that it provides visitors with one-stop conveniences as they wait for the ferry.

“Last-minute shopping opportunities for duty-free merchandise will be aplenty at Tioman Gateway,” said Arshad.