A reclamation project has been planned at Jelutong as part of efforts to rehabilitate the aging landfill site that has been in operation since the early 1970s. This initiative, led by the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) in collaboration with PLB Engineering Bhd, is aimed at addressing environmental concerns, optimizing land use, and preparing the area for future development.

Project Details and Landfill Rehabilitation

The Jelutong landfill, which has long exceeded its capacity, has been a pressing environmental issue due to potential pollution risks. To mitigate this, the state government entered into a RM1 billion agreement with PLB Engineering Bhd in 2020 to rehabilitate and develop the site. This includes the removal of waste, sorting and recycling of materials, and the eventual conversion of the land into a viable development area.

As part of the project, PLB is tasked with identifying a new disposal site for construction waste and marine clay while ensuring the smooth rehabilitation of the landfill. A waste-to-energy plant has also been proposed as part of the long-term sustainability efforts, turning refuse into power and reducing the environmental footprint of waste management in the state.

Covering approximately 65 hectares, the project involves landfill rehabilitation, cleaning, waste sorting, recycling, and reclamation. The reclaimed land, located north of the landfill and adjacent to Karpal Singh Drive, will serve as a working zone for waste management, environmental restoration, and eventual urban development.

Integrated Transportation and Sustainability Approach

The layout plan of the project is integrated into the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, aligning with the principles of Transit Oriented Development (TOD). The planning of traffic and transportation systems is designed to meet future population and transportation needs in a sustainable manner. The project aims to be sustainable from social, economic, and environmental perspectives, with different transportation systems implemented in stages as required.

Additionally, a multi-modal transport hub is planned, incorporating a cable car and water taxi system to enhance connectivity between the Mainland and various parts of Penang Island. This integration aims to improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and support the long-term urban development strategy for the region.

Environmental Impact Assessment and Public Concerns

The Department of Environment (DOE) initiated the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process in early February, with the public allowed to review the assessment from February 6 to March 7 and submit written feedback by March 22. However, many residents in the area were unaware of the consultation period, leading to calls for an extension.

A pro tem committee, the Protect Karpal Singh Drive action committee (ProtectKarpal), comprising over 150 residents, a mosque committee, and a private school, raised concerns about the project’s potential impact on marine life and increased activity near residential neighborhoods. The group argued that residents should have sufficient time to assess the project’s implications and voice their opinions.

In response, the DOE announced an extension of the feedback submission deadline by 14 days, moving it to April 5.

The rehabilitated and reclaimed land at Jelutong is strategically located about 3km from George Town’s core area and is considered prime for urban expansion. While the gross development value (GDV) has yet to be finalized, it is estimated to reach billions of ringgit, making it one of the most significant land developments in Penang.

Previously a sanitary landfill, the site has only been used for construction and garden waste disposal since 2002, with municipal waste now redirected to Pulau Burung near Nibong Tebal. The reclamation project, if successfully implemented, will not only resolve the landfill issue but also create new economic opportunities for the state.