The Edge Special - Of Islands & Investment

There is a reason why the etymology for the word "spa" is in fact an acronym of the Latin phrase Salus Per Aquam, or health through water. No one would ever dispute the great healing powers of the ocean, which is rich in trace minerals like potassium, calcium and magnesium. Sun worshippers and water babies alike will testify to the therapeutic properties simply being by the seaside affords, while a dip in saltwater is medically proven to fight bacteria, treat skin infections and generally hasten the healing process. Imagine, then, the benefits - both tangible and intangible - of being able to regularly access the healing benefits of the sea.

Should you happen to be searching for a better way and quality of life, the idea of a seafront home might well be the answer: bracing sea air, daily barefoot walks on alabaster sand, invigorating dips in the sea and a lifestyle that embraces the great outdoors. If there is one thing the pandemic has taught us, it is to not take the future or our health for granted. Surely then, there is no better time than now to take advantage of a rare opportunity to own a seafront island home.

Cenang Resort Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of renowned and trusted developer Tropicana Corporation Bhd, has just launched Tropicana Cenang, a premium seafront integrated development that will comprise residences, retail outlets and hotels right on Pantai Cenang, which has been voted among the Top 25 beaches in Asia.

Undoubtedly Langkawi's liveliest locale, Pantai Cenang is a perfect 2km stretch of perfect white sandy beach on the island's western shoreline. Popular among tourists and locals, it is a short drive from the international airport (just 9km away), offers all manner of cuisine, retail and leisure diversions, yet remains idyllic with its swaying palms, coconut trees and the Andaman Sea all within a stone's throw. A magnet for visitors who come for the exciting cafes and restaurants, duty-free shopping outlets and tourist attractions right on the strip, including the established and popular Underwater World Langkawi, Pantai Cenang's warm waters are also never without swimmers and water sports enthusiasts who can often be spotted jet-skiing and parasailing.

Seeing much potential on this island, which attracted close to four million tourists in 2019, Tropicana has thrown down the gauntlet by offering the first-ever premium mixed-use development by the sea. Set on 5.28 acres of freehold land, a great rarity in Langkawi real estate, Tropicana Cenang has already made waves on the market for being the island's first seafront residential development. Of equal importance is the fact that foreign nationals are also welcome to buy, subject to a minimum sales threshold of RM500,000.

Part of the property developer's Tropicana Journey collection, which also includes Tropicana Grandhill in Genting Highlands, Tropicana Cenang marks the brand's first foray into Langkawi. Developed around four main pillars comprising strategic location, spectacular variety of recreational activities in the vicinity, superior residences with a resort-style ambience and being a smart and lucrative investment, Tropicana Cenang will be developed in two main phases. The Assana Serviced Suites and the low-rise Merissa beachfront villas will make up Phase 1 while Phase 2 will include a five-star hotel and branded residences.

What makes Tropicana Cenang particularly attractive, despite its proximity to the vibrancy and nightlife of Pantai Cenang, is a forested ridge, which locals call Tanjung Mali, that naturally divides the bustling half of the beach from the other more serene side, which borders Pantai Tengah. Occupying a plot of land any top-flight hotel would covet, Tropicana Cenang's enviable site has to be seen to be believed.

Spread out over 39 floors, 831 units of the Assana Serviced Suites are offered to those searching for their own perfect pad in paradise. Choose from a variety of layouts that range from a cosy studio apartment (380 sq ft, 459 units) all the way to spacious four-bedroom, three-bath units (1,310 sq ft, 31 units).

All units come fully furnished while resort-themed facilities, such as a hammock garden, BBQ terrace, swimming pool, Jacuzzi and yoga terrace, are naturally included. Tropicana Cenang also offers a full range of hotel-grade services to ensure life is as seamless and stress-free as possible for its residents, with assistance offered for almost any conceivable request; from concierge services to housekeeping and home-care programmes such as home monitoring, cleaning and inspection of interior spaces, and even the forwarding of mail and packages.

Those who need a little more luxury need only look as far as the Merissa beachfront low-rise villas, which offer just 60 units spread out over six storeys. All units will offer a sea view, some with the nearby islands of Pulau Tepor, Pulau Rebak Besar and Pulau Rebak Kecil just on the horizon.

Prices presently hover around RMl,350 psf on average for Phase 1 while the indicative rental yield, based on 50% occupancy, is 8.7%.The target completion date is January 2026 or within 54 months of signing the sale and purchase agreement.

Tropicana Cenang was launched in 3Q2021 with the tagline - Holiday, Everyday. With the chance to own a sea view property on one of the most vibrant and beautiful island in Asia going from RM 457,000, a holiday every day might not just be an impossible dream. Sounds good? We sure think so. 

For more information, visit tropicanacenang.com.my