Air Tawar

The origins of Telok Air Tawar can be traced back to the early settlers who came from Aceh, Indonesia in early 18^th century.  The settlers then opened up a trading port that became eventually thrived in the 19^th century. The name Telok Air Tawar can also be translated to the ‘Freshwater Bay’ as it is situated at the bay where the river and sea meets.

Located north of Butterworth, and south of Kepala Batas, the area has grown into a peaceful seaside suburb with panoramic views of George Town, the capital city of Penang. The current economic drive for the town is agricultural activities such as paddy and palm oil plantation. It is also strategically, home to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) airfield base. The coastline between Telok Air Tawar and Kuala Muda, Kedah is among Malaysia's most important site for migratory birds. This area covers over 7,200ha consisting of tidal mud flat, estuaries and mangroves. Recent property developments include semi-detached bungalows, double-storey link houses and high rise condominiums being built in the area.

 

Amenities and Facilities

Telok Air Tawar has several schools - primary, secondary, religious and vernacular - that covers the education needs of the local populace. Among the biggest schools are Sekolah Kebangsaan Teluk Air Tawar and SJK Aik Keow Teluk Air Tawar. Within the town boundary there are also many beaches, the most popular being Pantai Robina. Less popular than other coastal public parks in Penang such as Gurney Drive, Karpal Singh Drive and Queensbay but just as scenic, Pantai Robina offers a quiet and scenic vista that stretches over some 700 metres. Visitors can enjoy breezy evening walks and spectacular sunsets over the horizon. The beach also provides facilities such as surau, halls, public toilets and changing rooms as well as open fields to host group activities.

Small local supermarkets and sundry shops service the local population’s daily needs. For health services, there are two public clinics that tends to the needs of Teluk Air Tawar residents. However, for urgent and critical needs there is the Seberang Jaya General Hospital which is situated in Perai, 20-minute drive away from Telok Air Tawar.

 

Accessibility and Transportation

There are no rail services connecting the town therefore the only way to get to Telok Air Tawar is via road. From Penang, the Butterworth Outer Ring Road expressway, connects Sungai Dua to Perai. Once in Telok Air Tawar you can reach Kedah via the federal road that cuts thorough the town which is the main link between Butterworth and Kuala Muda, Kedah. If you’re driving south bound on the PLUS highway, take the Bertam exit to Telok Air Tawar and the Sungai Dua exit if you’re heading north bound. Rapid Penang route 601 and 603 provides bus services from Penang Central and Butterworth on an hourly basis.