Chew Jetty was one of 5 wooden jetties constructed in 1888 as part of a development project on the quay side in George Town. 2 other wooden jetties were built in the same area in the 1960s. One of the jetties burnt down which means there are are now six remaining.
Back in 1918, the Chinese ancestors of Chew Jetty Penang heard that jobs were aplenty in Penang and many were attracted to earn a living there. The Clan Jetty was built on stilts by Chinese immigrants and each jetty comprises row houses on stilts joined by wooden walkways over the water.
The Chew Clan still occupies the Chew Jetty although it no longer used for loading and unloading cargo having been superseded by the large commercial sea port nearby. You can’t unload large freight ships on a small wooden jetty. Chew Jetty is now a tourist attraction with the clan members using the lower part of their houses as shops.
The historical Chew Jetty Penang has become a popular tourist attraction with many of the row houses at the jetty selling souvenirs, handcrafted items and food. Some row houses have even been turned into restaurants and are known for selling local delicacies, attracting the hungry tummies of the visitors strolling on the wooden walkways of Chew Jetty Penang.
