Eco World Development Group Berhad (EcoWorld) celebrated the grand opening of its new retail hub, Australis @ Eco Horizon City, on Friday. The event marked a significant milestone as EcoWorld announced its partnership with EFS Revision Energy Sdn Bhd (EFS) to install solar energy systems in key facilities, moving closer to its 2050 net-zero goal.

Speaking at the launch, Dato’ Ir Chan Soo How, EcoWorld’s General Manager for the Northern Region, highlighted that Australis would operate entirely on solar power, representing a pivotal step in the company’s transition toward a low-carbon economy.

Under the collaboration, EFS will install a total of 587 kilowatt-peak (kWp) of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across several locations within Eco Horizon City, including the Eco Horizon Sales Gallery, Australis, and Eco Horizon Clubhouse.

“These installations will significantly reduce reliance on conventional energy sources, lower carbon emissions, and promote the adoption of clean energy. This initiative benefits not only the residents of the township but also the broader community,” said Chan.

EcoWorld has already implemented solar PV systems in its sales galleries and commercial centers across Klang Valley and Johor, with 85% of its developments earning green certifications.

The partnership agreement was formalized during the ceremony, witnessed by EcoWorld Deputy CEO Liew Tian Xiong and EFS CEO Darren Tan. Chan and EFS CCO Donovan Chia signed the agreement, reaffirming EcoWorld’s commitment to sustainable development.

Australis @ Eco Horizon City, spanning 1.93 acres, features 10 double-storey shop units and boasts a 90.5% occupancy rate. Offering retail, dining, and fitness options, it provides a one-stop lifestyle experience for residents.

The success of Australis is also attributed to its remarkable tenants, including Jaya Grocer, Believe Fitness, High 10, Dragon Noodle, Health Lane Pharmacy, Emart24, Bean & The Gang, BingXue, Mi Ban Cafe, and Hairstory. Their decision to make Australis their business home has transformed the center into a vibrant and dynamic hub, offering a diverse range of services to the community.

The Penang government’s offer of optional 99-year leasehold extensions and premium discounts has been warmly received by leaseholders in Kampung Valdor, Nibong Tebal.

During a dialogue session with Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, and state Land and Mines officials, attendees expressed their satisfaction with the explanations provided regarding the eligibility and benefits of lease extensions.

Chow highlighted that leaseholders could choose extensions ranging from 30 to 99 years, with premium discounts of up to 90% based on current land values.

“We are committed to addressing leaseholders’ concerns and ensuring they benefit from this initiative,” Chow said, encouraging leaseholders to act quickly to take advantage of the significant savings.

The premium discounts apply to various land use categories, including agricultural, residential, commercial, and industrial lands.

Goh added that he would gather applications from leaseholders after Chinese New Year and submit them to the relevant authorities.

“We expect a strong response from leaseholders eager to benefit from this opportunity,” he said.

This initiative, officially announced in 2023, aims to support Penang residents while ensuring fair and sustainable land management.

Penang reached a historic milestone today with the official launch of the Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line project. The groundbreaking ceremony, held in Bandar Sri Pinang, Sungai Pinang, was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and marked a transformative moment in the state’s transportation landscape.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow hailed the project as a culmination of over a decade of meticulous planning and perseverance. “The Mutiara LRT Line represents Penang’s first rail-based light transit system and serves as the backbone of the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP),” Chow said.

The 29.5-kilometer Mutiara LRT Line will feature 21 elevated stations, connecting key locations across Penang Island, the man-made Silicon Island, and Penang Sentral on the mainland. Among the notable stations are Penang International Airport, Sungai Nibong, Komtar, and a future station on Silicon Island, envisioned as a hub for emerging industries like artificial intelligence.

Construction is scheduled for completion by 2030, with operations commencing in December 2031. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs, attract substantial investments, and address critical issues such as traffic congestion and environmental pollution.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the LRT’s transformative potential, calling it a catalyst for economic growth and national unity. “The benefits will extend beyond Penang, boosting the entire northern corridor,” he said.

The Federal Government has appointed MRT Corp as the project developer and asset owner, with procurement divided into civil works for the island-mainland alignment and system contracts. Transport Minister Anthony Loke highlighted enhancements introduced by MRT Corp, including extending the line to Penang Sentral and planning future extensions to Tanjong Bunga and Air Itam.

Addressing public concerns, Anwar acknowledged the sentimental value of the Pesta site in Sungai Nibong, proposed as an LRT depot location. He assured that efforts would be made to preserve part of the site while ensuring the project progresses smoothly.

“This project symbolizes collaboration and vision,” Chow added. “As I approach my final term as Chief Minister, it is my dream to leave a legacy of a thriving, livable Penang.”

The Mutiara LRT Line, alongside other initiatives such as the Penang International Airport expansion and Batu Kawan Industrial Park 3, underscores Penang’s commitment to sustainable development and a prosperous future.

About Terraces Condominium

A highrise residential development by IJM Land at Bukit Jambul, Penang. Strategically located on 9.32 acres of land next to INTI International College. It comprises a 34-storey condominium tower, featuring 410 residential units with two different design types to choose from.

*Photo taken in Dec 2024

Find out more about Terraces Condominium

Source: PBA

The Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) has announced six major water supply projects valued at over RM1.8 billion to meet the rising water demand in the state. Four of these projects, costing a total of RM824 million, are set to begin this year under the state’s Water Contingency Plan 2030 (WCP 2030).

The planned initiatives include two new water treatment plants with a combined capacity of 228 million litres per day (MLD). The Mengkeng Dam plant will cost RM250 million, while the Sungai Kerian plant is valued at RM402 million. Additionally, PBAPP will install a 13km pipeline from the Sungai Dua plant to Butterworth at a cost of RM128 million and a 3.9km pipeline connecting Macallum to the Bukit Dumbar Reservoir and Pumping Station Complex on Penang Island for RM44 million.

PBAPP, a subsidiary of PBA Holdings Bhd, has secured a commitment from Pengurusan Aset Air Bhd (PAAB), a Ministry of Finance-owned entity, to fund two additional water treatment plants. The Sungai Perai plant will have a capacity of 136 MLD and cost RM588 million, while the Sungai Muda plant, with a 114 MLD capacity, is estimated at RM435 million. PBAPP will repay PAAB through long-term financing arrangements.

PBAPP CEO Datuk K. Pathmanathan emphasized the importance of these projects, stating that PBAPP and the state government are also advocating for federal funding. Between RM500 million and RM700 million is projected for six federal water projects, including the Lahar Yooi Pump House and a dual-purpose pipeline linking Mengkuang Dam and the Sungai Dua Canal.

Furthermore, Penang plans to apply for federal support for two off-river storage schemes under the 13th Malaysia Plan, ensuring sustainable water management for the state’s growing needs.