GEORGE TOWN: Soori Penang has been named by TIME, an American news magazine based in New York City, as one of the World's Greatest Places of 2026.
Every year, TIME gathers nominations for places - such as hotels, cruises, restaurants, attractions, museums and parks - from its global network of correspondents and contributors, as well as through an application process, focusing on those that offer fresh, exciting and meaningful experiences.
Soori, a 15-suite hotel, draws on its owner, SCDA Architects founding principal Soo K. Chan's early years living in a historic shophouse within the storied Khoo Kongsi compound here, translating those memories for today's travellers.
Unlike many heritage hotels which lean heavily on ornate Peranakan antiques, Soori takes a more thoughtful, contemporary approach.
According to the author, Kathryn Romeyn, from the outside, Soori blends seamlessly with its traditionally styled surroundings.
Inside, however, custom onyx lamps cast a gentle glow through
once-shadowy interiors, while restored glazed light wells brighten tranquil
water features — an homage to the monsoon rains Chan remembers filling the
inner courtyards below.
A restrained palette allows form and texture to take centre stage, accented by subtle nods to Penang's multicultural heritage, such as shishi lion statues and circular stone-look windows inspired by those in the ornate clan house temple.
State Tourism Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, in congratulating Soori, said it was another proud moment for Penang.
"Soori Penang, the newly opened boutique hotel in George Town, has been selected for TIME's 2026 World's Greatest Places, a global list celebrating 100 remarkable destinations shaping the future of travel," he said.
"Having opened its doors in January 2026, the hotel brings together thoughtful design, heritage surroundings and modern hospitality right in the heart of Penang's Unesco World Heritage Site.
"A wonderful milestone that further strengthens Penang's
reputation as a world-class destination," he added.
-nst online.
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