MBPP opens RFP for Batu Ferringhi Market Complex redevelopment
The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has announced a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the redevelopment of the Batu Ferringhi Market Complex, a MBPP-owned property.
MBPP Councillor Nicholas Theng Jie Wey stated that the complex, strategically located on Jalan Sungai Satu, directly opposite Pinang Emas Apartments, was originally designed as a wet market when it was built in 2017.
“However, due to low demand and a lack of business activity, the complex was returned to MBPP.
“Hence, MBPP intends to open a tender process for the complex’s redevelopment, inviting proposals for commercial and community-based uses,” he said during a press conference at the EOC Building, Jalan Kampung Jawa Baru on Thursday.
Several other MBPP councillors, including Mohamad Khairani Abdul Shukor, Nur Hidayah Che Rose, R. Hari Krishnan, Mohamed Yusoff Mohamed Noor, Benji Ang Ming Quan, Chen Wooi Teong, and Ooi Mei Mei, were also present at the press conference.
Aiming for Maximum Utilization
Theng highlighted that the two-story complex is equipped with modern facilities, including an elevator, a hall, multipurpose rooms, and parking spaces for cars and motorcycles.
“We want to ensure that this asset is fully utilized—not just for business purposes but also to benefit the local community through meaningful activities.
“MBPP hopes this tender will attract qualified applicants with innovative and competitive concepts to revitalize the complex, ultimately adding value to the community and the state’s economy.
“Proposals should be practical, high-value, and capable of enhancing socio-economic activities in the area. We believe this project can create a positive impact for the local community,” he added.
The tender will be advertised on 24 March 2025, and will close on 5 May 2025. Interested parties must attend a briefing and site visit at the complex on 7 April 2025, at 10:30 AM to qualify for submission.
As a resident of Batu Ferringhi for nearly 15 years, I believe the market is NOT strategically located. First of all, a market that is supposed to serve the general public MUST be located at the centre of where all commercial activities take place. This building is nestled in a remote residential area, which only serves those living around it.
The center of Batu Ferringhi is the area opposite the Golden Sands Resort and the Petronas station, along JALAN SUNGAI EMAS This is where restaurants, coffee shops, grocers, barbers, a DIY, budget hotels, a butcher, a pharmacy, KFC, McD and Subway are. It is surrounded by apartments and bungalows. The market SHOULD be here, not a kilometer away on an uphill terrain.
There is a tiny market that currently serves this area, and that is where most people shop. The new market is not accessible to those who take a walk for their morning shopping routine. Old aunties would have to walk nearly a kilometer to get their supplies, which is a ridiculous idea.
The reason the existing new building has no takers is because there is no demand. Who would want to set up shop where nobody would come?
In my opinion, no amount of refurbishment or redevelopment is going to add any value to this white elephant.