Wandering over to the Weld Quay water kampungs (villages) provides a glimpse into how Chinese immigrant families lived when arriving in Penang in the 19th century. The area was established in the 1880s when land reclamation moved the shoreline from present-day Beach street. This part of Penang became one of the busiest shipping ports in Malaysia, with traders arriving from Burma, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Many Chinese clans constructed wooden piers and small water settlements sprang up around them. The jetties were named after their respective clans, as well as New Jetty (also known as Chap She Keo, and Mixed Surname Jetty). Ong Jetty was the first to be built and is still in use today. Houses and community facilities were all constructed on wooden stilts, and the location allowed the clans to moor sampans (small wooden boats) and perform stevedoring operations. In its heyday, there were up to 20 jetties in the quay.

The clan jetties are slowly deteriorating as younger generations move to more conventional housing. In 2006, two jetties, Kaoy (home to Chinese Muslims) and Peng Aun Jetty, were demolished to make way for developments.

The jetties, particularly the temples and community halls are still important for the clans. In particular, Chew Jetty is the focal point for Chinese New Year celebrations.