Penang Perspective: Ayer Itam Dam

Ayer Itam Dam, located about 7.6 km from George Town on the slopes below Penang Hill, is Penang’s oldest and once-largest dam, built between 1958 and 1962 with a capacity of 2.16 billion litres. It supplies water to nearby areas like Ayer Itam and Paya Terubong and also offers a peaceful 2.8 km walking trail with scenic views of the city and surrounding hills. Interestingly, it was the first earth dam in the world designed using electronic computers for structural analysis—a pioneering move at the time. Today, it remains a popular spot for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers alike.

Penang Perspective: Insta-Worthy Scenes from Ayer Itam Dam

Ayer Itam dam and its surrounding forested hills region. The area remains one of the hidden nature gems of Penang. Due to this, it is a popular outdoor recreation area for the locals.

Penang Isle: Ayer Itam Dam

The Ayer Itam Dam is the first dam to be built in Penang and was officially opened in 1962 by the (then) Governor of Penang, TYT Y.M.Raja Tun Uda Al-Haj bin Raja Muhammad. Besides being one of the water sources of the island, the dam is also a popular recreation area with the locals.