Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has allocated RM5.2mil for the provision and upgrading of neighbourhood parks this year.

Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said with the allocation, MBPP would be able to create more neighbourhood parks in various residential areas.

“We also provide regular maintenance for every neighbourhood park under the council’s jurisdiction,” Rajendran said in his speech during the state-level National Landscape Day at Bukit Jambul neighbourhood park in Bayan Lepas.

“This is because we believe that with proper maintenance and upgraded facilities, these parks will be well-utilised by residents in surrounding neighbourhoods and make housing areas more liveable.

“For example, Bukit Jambul neighbourhood park was completed last year at a cost of RM714,000.

“This park is surrounded by trees and equipped with facilities for recreational activities.”

Also present at the event were state housing and environment committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, state local government, town and country planning committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye and Batu Uban assemblyman A. Kumaresan, as reported by Buletin Mutiara.

In his speech, H’ng said a target had been set for Penang to plant 100,000 pinang (palm) trees for next year’s National Landscape Day event.

He said MBPP and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) would be instructed to find locations for the planting of the trees.

The state-level celebration was attended by Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak and his spouse Toh Puan Khadijah Mohd Noor.

Source: TheStar.com.my

The Penang government, in partnership with PLUS Malaysia, is planning a new elevated highway, the Juru-Sungai Dua (JSD) route, aimed at reducing traffic congestion at the Juru and Sungai Dua toll plazas along the North-South Highway. The 15-kilometer project is projected to cost RM1.8 billion, according to The Star.

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan announced on Tuesday that PLUS has completed the first of three necessary stages for the project’s confirmation. “The Penang state has formally requested the project from the federal government,” he said. “Subsequently, PLUS Malaysia presented the proposal to the Public-Private Partnership Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department in February, and discussions are currently underway. Once confirmed, the next step would involve seeking Cabinet approval.”

Ahmad highlighted the potential long-term benefits of the JSD highway for Penang and neighboring states, emphasizing that frequent travelers on this route regularly face heavy traffic. “Despite the expected construction challenges over the current highway, we are hopeful, as we can already see the light at the end of the tunnel at this stage,” he stated.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow supported Ahmad’s comments, noting that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim experienced the severity of the congestion firsthand during a trip in February. “I had unintentionally brought Anwar from Permatang Pauh to Batu Kawan to launch an industrial park project during peak hour, and he felt the problem,” Chow explained. “The matter was raised again in April, leading the Public Works Department (JKR) and other agencies to conduct surveys at the section.”

Chow added that the JSD highway is a top priority for the state, along with the Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, which is expected to commence construction by the end of the year. These infrastructure developments aim to significantly improve traffic flow and connectivity in the region, addressing long-standing transportation issues and supporting economic growth.

The new road construction plan between Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang in Penang is being studied for possible realignment to minimise risks to residents in surrounding high-rise buildings.

The change may involve part of the coastal road, dubbed the North Coastal Paired Road.

State infrastructure and transport committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said in the originally planned alignment, the elevated road cut through residential areas on both sides.

“In the review, there will not be a huge change of the alignment.

“We are looking at a coastal route for a portion of it and we are finalising the cost analysis now,” he said.

It was learned that a proposal had been suggested for part of the route to be elevated above the sea.

This 10.5km stretch originally meanders along the foothills of Penang island’s northern coast.

“There were concerns about the safety of residents during construction since there are homes on both sides in the originally planned alignment,” Zairil added.

Recently, blasting work done in the foothills to construct another paired road, from Air Itam to Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway, caused debris and earth to fly into condominium blocks, damaging rooftops, swimming pool facilities, barbecue areas and several parked vehicles.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow apologised to the residents and assured them that the contractor would bear full responsibility for the damage.

Both the north coastal paired road and Air Itam-Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu bypass are among three new roads planned as part of a traffic dispersal system before the proposed undersea tunnel can connect Gurney Drive on the island to Bagan Ajam in Butterworth.

The third road in the package is between Gurney Drive and Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway, and is still subject to review.

This third road is meant to be almost 4km long and half of it is to be an underground tunnel while the other half will be elevated.

Source: TheStar.com.my

Source: Buletin Mutiara

The reconstruction of the Bayan Baru Wet Market is nearing its final stages, with vendors expected to move in and start their businesses by the end of this month. The only remaining task is for Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) to complete the installation of the electricity meters.

Penang Island City Council (MBPP) member, Chan Soon Aun, shared in an interview with Buletin Mutiara that the initial plan was for vendors to relocate and begin operations in April. However, this timeline was delayed due to issues with the installation of the electricity meters. Each of the 36 stalls in the newly rebuilt market has its own dedicated meter, but outstanding electricity bills for some stalls had to be settled before TNB could proceed with the installations.

Chan explained that the outstanding bills have now been resolved, and MBPP submitted the application for meter installation on May 29. TNB approved the application on May 31, and installation work is currently being scheduled. He is confident that the installation will be completed within June.

In response to reports claiming that the reconstruction was being repeatedly delayed, Chan clarified that TNB technicians have identified structural adjustments needed for the meter installations, which MBPP is addressing promptly.

Additionally, MBPP has been in communication with the vendors to keep them informed about the progress. Although some vendors have raised concerns about the unfinished tiling at the market entrance, Chan assured that this will not hinder their move and will be completed after the vendors have settled in.

The council remains committed to addressing local issues, including installing more industrial fans at the adjacent vendor center to improve ventilation and collaborating with the Ministry of Health to designate a smoking area and address rainwater splashing issues. Measures are also being considered to manage the stray cat and dog population around the market.

Ideal Property Group has garnered international fame with their high end seafront residences, Queens Residences Q1, winning the prestigious World Gold Winner title at the 2024 FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence Awards. This accolade, awarded for Q1’s exceptional performance, underscores the group’s formidable strength and extensive experience in the field. This honor not only elevates Malaysia’s real estate industry on the global stage but also firmly establishes Ideal Property Group as a leader in delivering excellence.

Recognizing real estate projects that demonstrate exceptional global performance, the FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence Awards are esteemed as the “Oscars of the real estate industry.” Queens Residences Q1’s distinction among numerous outstanding projects worldwide is a testament to its unparalleled excellence in architectural design, quality, innovation, and sustainability, meeting the international standards.

The award ceremony was held on May 30 at Gardens by the Bay in Singapore this year. The international panel of judges rigorously evaluated each entry based on comprehensive criteria, including architecture and design, development and construction, community benefits, environmental impact, financial and marketing success.

Puan Sri Datuk Phor Li Wei, Executive Director of Ideal Property Group, expressed profound honor in contributing to the real estate industry through the creation of high-caliber development projects. This honor not only highlights the international industry’s high regard for Ideal Property Group’s comprehensive strength and professional capabilities but also serves as a significant affirmation of the excellent quality of Queens Residences Q1.

“Ideal Property Group adheres to the spirit of innovation, committed to creating practical and inspiring living spaces with added value potential. Through sustainable development concepts and relentless pursuit of excellence, we aim to create a sustainable residence that inspires residents and provides extraordinary living experience.”

Being the first phase development of the comprehensive Queens Waterfront master plan in Penang, Q1 offers unique living spaces with a charming nautical-themed design, over 20 exclusive leisure facilities, a resort-style environment, and mesmerizing views of the Malacca Strait. Residents can enjoy stunning ocean views at all times, experiencing the tranquillity of nature amidst the bustling city.

Q1 is built according to green building standards, incorporating sustainability elements in its design and planning. The project features spacious walkways, green landscapes, and convenient pathways. It adopts rainwater harvesting systems, centralized water filtration systems, and low-flow water fittings to minimize environmental impact and promote resource conservation. Additionally, the project includes green wall, herb garden, bicycle paths, bicycle docking stations, and electric vehicle charging stations, fostering a low- carbon, green lifestyle.cc

The Queens Waterfront master plan includes four phases: Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4. The final phase, Q4, is a mixed-use development featuring hotels, office buildings, branded residences, and super condominiums. A series of public facilities such as a comprehensive sports center with a Fina standard aquatic center, a sports arena, and a recreation field, a 1- kilometer seafront promenade, alfresco dining, and a marina are also included in the master plan. The adjacent community benefits from well-developed public infrastructure and excellent connectivity.

Therefore, Q1 benefits from the surrounding comprehensive infrastructure. These rich amenities of high quality not only enhance the living standards of community residents but also create a unique and exclusive lifestyle. This makes Q1 a preferred choice for homebuyers and investors, highlighting its high investment value and extraordinary lifestyle.

Tan Sri Datuk Ooi Kee Liang, Executive Chairman of Ideal Property Group, further elaborated, “Our goal with the Queens Waterfront project, especially with the Q3 and Q4 phases, is to uplift the overall community quality in Penang. By integrating comprehensive- use properties, we are setting new benchmarks for mixed-use developments, creating spaces that meet international standards and enrich the lives of our residents.”