The Penang state government is advancing its ambitious Penang2030 vision, aiming to deliver 220,000 affordable housing units (RMM) to address the growing demand for quality, affordable homes.

As of October 31, 2024, 162,689 units are in various stages of development. These include 51,680 units ready for construction, 22,456 under construction, and 88,553 in the design phase. Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Chairman of the State Housing and Environment Committee, shared these updates during the recent State Legislative Assembly.

In a significant move, the state announced that its affordable housing initiative will be rebranded as Rumah MutiaraKu (RMK) starting January 2025. The rebranding aims to instill a stronger sense of pride and ownership among recipients. “This change underscores our commitment to improving the quality and perception of affordable housing in Penang,” Sundarajoo remarked.

To ensure that subsidised housing benefits the intended groups, a maximum household income limit of RM20,000 has been set for open market applications, effectively excluding higher-income groups, especially the T20 category.

Quality and Assurance

The state government has mandated rigorous quality standards for all RMK developments. Developers are required to meet the Construction Industry Development Board’s (CIDB) Qlassic standards with a minimum score of 70%. Additionally, final inspections by local authorities and technical agencies are necessary before issuing the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC).

Buyers will also benefit from a 24-month Defects Liability Period (DLP), during which developers must address any defects in new housing units.

Redevelopment Projects on the Horizon

The state is also focused on revitalising older housing areas. The Ujong Batu redevelopment project is nearing the final stage of its Request For Proposal (RFP). Another redevelopment initiative, involving Taman Siakap, will deliver 400 affordable units divided equally between the RMM B2 and RMM C3 categories.

However, not all projects have received the green light. The Padang Tembak redevelopment study was not approved under the Fifth Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan. Sundarajoo assured that the state would appeal this decision to the Ministry of Economy.

In line with its green agenda, the state plans to distribute free recycling bags to selected areas starting early next year. By December 2025, free distribution will cease, and bags will be sold for RM2 each to encourage sustainable practices and reduce plastic waste.

Penang government is carefully evaluating the establishment of a Special Financial Zone (SFZ), recognising its potential as a transformative economic driver. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow revealed that the Penang Institute (PI) is leading the study into the proposal.

During a winding-up speech at the Penang Legislative Assembly, Chow highlighted the findings from a public engagement workshop held on September 24. Over 100 participants from the logistics, trade, and financial sectors attended, with more than 93% expressing support for the SFZ initiative.

Key benefits identified included job creation for young graduates, increased foreign investment, and enhanced support for advanced manufacturing. Participants also recommended focusing on financial subsectors such as fintech, startup financing, equity crowdfunding, maritime trade, and cryptocurrency finance.

Potential sites for the SFZ include Gurney Bay and Andaman Island. However, concerns were raised regarding challenges such as traffic congestion, talent shortages, and low wages, which could hinder the project’s success.

A roundtable discussion with industry experts on November 27 aimed to refine the framework for the SFZ. Further research findings will be presented to the state executive council for consideration.

This initiative underscores Penang’s commitment to maintaining its position as a regional business hub in Southeast Asia while addressing economic and infrastructure challenges.

Tuan Pavilion, a high-rise residential development spanning 2.4 acres along Solok Zoo 1 in Air Itam, conveniently located near the Permata Sports Complex. Situated less than 2km from Sunshine Central Mall, it offers easy access to the upcoming Air Itam Bypass, scheduled for completion in 2025.

This project consisting of two towers with a total of 280 units. Tower A comprises 21 levels with 120 units, offering six units per floor, while Tower B features 28 levels with 160 units, with eight units per floor. The units range in size from 1,173 sq. ft. to 1,592 sq. ft. and include configurations of up to four bedrooms. The development is supported by a six-level car parking podium and offers over 20 facilities located on Level 7.

Project Name : Tuan Pavilion
Location : Air Itam
Property Type : Condominium
Tenure: Freehold
Built-up Size: 1,173 sq.ft. – 1,592 sq.ft.
Total Units: 280
Indicative Price : (to be confirmed)
Developer : Milenium Baru Sdn. Bhd. (M Summit Group)

DISCLAIMER: This article is solely based on research done using publicly available data. This is not an advertisement. Any claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a project or service should be verified with the developer, provider, or party in question.

Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City, the flagship development of the Straits City Future City waterfront project, has officially opened in Butterworth. This hotel marks the first phase of the 40-acre Straits City Masterplan, a collaborative effort by Singapore Exchange-listed Straits Trading Company Limited and Malaysia Smelting Corporation Berhad. The development aims to create a smart and sustainable urban environment while adding a new dimension to Penang’s hospitality landscape.

As the first Crowne Plaza in northern Malaysia, the hotel aims to address the growing demand for luxury accommodations on Penang’s mainland, driven by increased business activity and foreign investments. Straits Developments Pte. Ltd. CEO Eric Teng described the hotel as offering “a unique blend of modern comfort, sophisticated amenities, and a commitment to sustainability,” catering to both business and leisure travelers while revitalizing Butterworth.

The 23-story hotel features 343 well-appointed rooms and suites designed for premium corporate and leisure guests. Rooms include walk-in wardrobes, Antipodes organic bath products, and motion-sensor lighting to enhance sustainability. Expansive windows maximize natural light, contributing to the hotel’s eco-friendly design.

Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City is equipped to host events of all scales. Its centerpiece, the 653-square-meter Straits Ballroom, accommodates up to 800 attendees, while four smaller meeting rooms cater to more intimate gatherings. Additional features include a rooftop infinity pool and gym with views of Penang Island, the Wellesley Club Lounge, and a 24-hour business center.

Dining options include the 1887 All Day Dining and Lobby Lounge, offering local and international cuisines, and a Grab N Go Counter for quick meals.

Straits City’s Masterplan envisions a smart, sustainable urban environment combining residential, commercial, and retail spaces. Located in Butterworth’s central business district, it is strategically connected via multiple transport networks. Development is set to continue in phases, with full completion expected by 2038.

The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has announced a 50% increase in parking rates on Penang Island, effective March 2025.

Mayor Rajendran Anthony explained that the adjustment is necessary to fund the maintenance of smart parking sensors and system upgrades under the Penang Smart Parking initiative.

Under the new rates, parking fees will rise to 60 sen for 30 minutes, RM1.20 per hour, and RM9 for a full day. The last adjustment was in 2014, marking a significant gap since the previous increase in the 1990s.

The revised rates will apply to all 19,000 parking spaces on the island. Meanwhile, the cost of annual parking passes will decrease from RM1,800 to RM1,200 starting March 1, though monthly passes will remain at RM150.

This measure aligns with MBPP’s efforts to enhance parking facilities and technology for better user convenience.